title: AMPK and Exercise: Glucose Uptake and Insulin Sensitivity.
abstract: AMPK is an evolutionary conserved sensor of cellular energy status that is activated during exercise. Pharmacological activation of AMPK promotes glucose uptake, fatty acid oxidation, mitochondrial biogenesis, and insulin sensitivity; processes that are reduced in obesity and contribute to the development of insulin resistance. AMPK deficient mouse models have been used to provide direct genetic evidence either supporting or refuting a role for AMPK in regulating these processes. Exercise promotes glucose uptake by an insulin dependent mechanism involving AMPK. Exercise is important for improving insulin sensitivity; however, it is not known if AMPK is required for these improvements. Understanding how these metabolic processes are regulated is important for the development of new strategies that target obesity-induced insulin resistance. This review will discuss the involvement of AMPK in regulating skeletal muscle metabolism (glucose uptake, glycogen synthesis, and insulin sensitivity).
authors: Protein Chemistry and Metabolism Unit, St. Vincent's Institute of Medical Research, Fitzroy, Australia.
authors: Hayley M
authors: HM
authors: O'Neill
keywords: AMPK; Exercise; Glucose uptake; Insulin resistance; Obesity