Osteocrin (OSTN)

Osteocrin (OSTN) is a secreted peptide, classified as a myokine, with key roles in bone, muscle, and neuronal physiology. In skeletal tissue, it modulates bone mineralization and osteocyte dendrite formation by interacting with the natriuretic peptide system (notably via NPR-C), tightly regulated by vitamin D and development. In muscle, as musclin, OSTN responds to nutritional and hormonal signals and is linked to muscle adaptation, protection against cardiac dysfunction, fibrosis, and diabetic complications[1][2]. In the primate nervous system, OSTN is an activity-induced gene in excitatory cortical neurons, where it restricts dendritic overgrowth, influencing unique features of neuronal structure and function; higher OSTN expression is linked with reduced tau pathology in Alzheimer's disease[3]. OSTN also regulates proteasome function in cardiomyocytes via PKG-dependent pathways, underpinning its cardioprotective effects, especially in diabetes-related cardiac disorders[2]. Its expression is increased by physical activity, enriched at the myotendinous junction, and varies with health and disease states.

Other names

MusclinProcessed osteocrinMUSCLINosteocrin

Augmentation of natriuretic peptide signaling via NPR-C binding. Restoration of PKG-dependent proteasomal activity in heart muscle. Autophagy pathway modulation (liver protection via SIRT7). Regulation of dendritic complexity in neurons (activity-dependent restriction).