Unresolved questions in the regulation of skeletal muscle insulin action by reactive oxygen species

Research output: Contribution to journalReviewResearchpeer-review

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are well-established signaling molecules implicated in a wide range of cellular processes, including both oxidative stress and intracellular redox signaling. In the context of insulin action within its target tissues, ROS have been reported to exert both positive and negative regulatory effects. However, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying this duality remain unclear. This Review examines the complex role of ROS in insulin action, with a particular focus on skeletal muscle. We aim to address three critical aspects: (a) the proposed intracellular pro-oxidative redox shift elicited by insulin, (b) the evidence supporting that redox-sensitive cysteine modifications impact insulin signaling and action, and (c) cellular mechanisms underlying how ROS can paradoxically act as both enhancers and inhibitors of insulin action. This Review underscores the urgent need for more systematic research to identify specific reactive species, redox targets, and the physiological significance of redox signaling in maintaining insulin action and metabolic health, with a particular emphasis on human skeletal muscle.

Original languageEnglish
JournalFEBS Letters
ISSN0014-5793
DOIs
Publication statusAccepted/In press - 2024

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2024 The Author(s). FEBS Letters published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Federation of European Biochemical Societies.

    Research areas

  • hydrogen peroxide, insulin action, insulin signaling, metabolism, reactive oxygen species, redox signaling, skeletal muscle

ID: 395072961