Neuregulins Response to Exercise: a Mini Review

The Neuregulin is a member of the epidermal growth factors (EGF) family of receptor kinases, was originally identified as the product of the transforming gene derived from chemically induced rat neuroblastoms. A variety of different protein isoforms are produced from single Neuregulin gene. Four distinct vertebrate gene encode Neuregulin, prosaically named NRG1, NRG2, NRG3, and NRG4. Most of biological function related to NRG1 which are widely acting on brain and nervous plasticity, cardiac muscle development and also as mediator skeletal muscle metabolism. The expression of NRGs mRNA in different tissues (brain, cardiac and skeletal muscles and adipose tissue) has been observed, but its expression in nervous system element, particularly in brain is well documented. A change in serum NRG1 has been observed in patient with schizophrenia and also considered as a biomarker of cardiovascular fitness. In addition, NRG1 injection has shown to improve glucose tolerance test, increased serum leptin, weight gain prevention, and reduce food intake in NRG1-treated mince. The purpose of this short review paper was to see the responses of NRGs to different types of acute physical exercise or exercise training. In this regard, it seems exercise at different intensities should be a good candidate for future study in relation to NRGs response.