Spexin as a metabolic regulatory peptide in liver, adipose tissue, skeletal muscle, and pancreas: evidence from animal models and human studies.

OBJECTIVES: The prevalence of metabolic diseases is increasing worldwide. The identification of novel biomarkers and peptides is one approach to diagnosing and treating such disorders. Spexin is a relatively new peptide hormone that plays a pivotal role in energy metabolism. The prominent role of spexin in obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, diabetes, and insulin resistance has been established. This mini-review summarizes recent findings on the physiological and potential therapeutic roles of spexin in metabolic disorders.

METHODS: A targeted literature review of scientific sources was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. The search focused on published experimental and clinical studies on the metabolic effects of spexin in the liver, adipose tissue, skeletal muscle, and pancreas.

RESULTS: This peptide regulates energy homeostasis by affecting the metabolism of specific tissues. Spexin reduces hepatic fat accumulation by modulating lipogenesis and β-oxidation. In adipose tissue, spexin modulates adipocyte differentiation by enhancing lipolysis and inhibiting lipogenesis. In skeletal muscle, it is effective in increasing glucose uptake by upregulating glucose transporter 4. Spexin also affects insulin secretion and regulates β-cell function in the pancreas.

CONCLUSIONS: Although studies on the physiological and therapeutic effects of spexin are ongoing, current evidence highlights its involvement in metabolic regulation. Further research is required to clarify the mechanisms and therapeutic potential of this pathway in metabolic diseases.