Role of Irisin in Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders-Possible New Therapeutic Agent?

Irisin is a novel hormone that provides a possible solution for the treatment of metabolic disorders. Discovered in 2012 by Bostrom et al., irisin very quickly became an interesting subject in medical research. Irisin has been found in cerebrospinal fluid, the cerebellum, thyroid, pineal gland, liver, pancreas, testis, spleen, adult stomach, and human fetuses. Regarding the actions of irisin, both in animals and humans, the results are contradictory but interesting. Its capability to influence adipose tissue and glycemic homeostasis may be utilized in order to treat hypothyroidism, polycystic ovary syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, and other endocrine and metabolic disorders. Considering its osteogenic potential, irisin might be a therapeutic choice in diseases caused by a sedentary lifestyle. New data indicate that irisin treatment may serve in the treatment of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARSCoV-2) infection. Furthermore, several therapeutic agents, such as insulin, metformin, fenofibrate, exenatide, and melatonin, influence the concentrations of irisin in animal models or in humans. Nutritional factors including polyunsaturated fatty acids may also have an effect on irisin concentrations. While it may be too good to be true, irisin offers many opportunities for future research that would aim to find its optimal therapeutical role in endocrine and metabolic diseases.

Automated summary

Irisin, a novel hormone, has sparked interest in medical research for its potential in treating metabolic disorders like hypothyroidism and polycystic ovary syndrome. It also shows promise in diseases caused by a sedentary lifestyle and may have a role in treating infections like SARSCoV-2. Therapies such as insulin and metformin can influence irisin levels, opening up avenues for future research in optimizing its therapeutic role in endocrine and metabolic diseases.