Apelin emerges as promising therapeutic target for sarcopenia, osteoarthritis, and osteoporosis via APJ receptor signaling

Degenerative diseases of the musculoskeletal system, including sarcopenia, osteoarthritis, and osteoporosis, represent a significant global health concern in aging populations, severely impacting functional mobility and quality of life. These conditions are pathologically linked to chronic inflammation, oxidative stress imbalance, and endocrine dysregulation. Current standard-of-care often addresses symptoms rather than underlying mechanisms, highlighting a critical need for novel therapeutic strategies. Apelin, an endogenous ligand for the G protein-coupled apelin receptor (APJ), is a crucial component of a signaling system widely distributed throughout human physiology, positioning it as a potential target.

This comprehensive review synthesized existing literature on apelin's multifaceted roles in degenerative musculoskeletal diseases. Researchers systematically analyzed studies detailing apelin's effects on the occurrence and development of conditions such as sarcopenia, osteoarthritis, and osteoporosis. The review focused on apelin's involvement in key pathological processes, including cellular homeostasis, tissue remodeling, and inflammatory responses. The primary objective was to establish a scientific foundation for future investigations and to identify novel therapeutic strategies centered on the apelin/APJ signaling system.

Apelin, acting through its receptor APJ, plays diverse and critical regulatory roles in maintaining cellular homeostasis and tissue integrity across various musculoskeletal tissues. The review highlighted apelin's significant modulatory effects on inflammatory responses, which are central to the pathology of degenerative musculoskeletal diseases. Furthermore, apelin was found to be involved in mitigating oxidative stress imbalance and influencing endocrine dysregulation, both of which are key pathological links in these age-associated conditions. Its widespread distribution throughout physiological systems underscores its broad potential impact. > Apelin's multifaceted actions in cellular homeostasis, tissue remodeling, and inflammatory responses position it as a promising therapeutic target for sarcopenia, osteoarthritis, and osteoporosis. The synthesis of existing evidence establishes a robust scientific foundation for exploring novel therapeutic strategies centered on apelin and its receptor.