GLOSSARY

Growth Factor Regulation of Satellite Cells
Growth factors regulate satellite-cell activation, proliferation and differentiation at different repair stages.

Local growth-factor networks. Growth factors influence proliferation, differentiation, survival and extracellular matrix remodeling through receptor-specific pathways. Their actions depend on tissue state, dose, timing and interactions with other signals. More signaling is not automatically equivalent to better repair or functional adaptation.

Interpreting the mechanism. Excess or mistimed stimulation does not necessarily improve mature muscle recovery.

From pathway to performance. Circulating concentrations and phosphorylation markers do not directly quantify local tissue regeneration. Evidence for a proposed exercise benefit should link the relevant tissue signal with meaningful structural or functional outcomes, while distinguishing human findings from experimental models.