Function and regulation of muscle stem cells in skeletal muscle development and regeneration: a narrative review

Abstract Skeletal muscle plays an essential role in generating the mechanical force necessary to support the movement of our body and daily exercise. Compared with cardiac and smooth muscle, in mammals, skeletal muscle exhibits remarkable regenerative capacity in response to damage. Muscle stem cells, also known as satellite cells, directly contribute to regeneration. Here, we review primary and secondary myogenesis processes with a focus on muscle stem cells, as well as the function and regulation of muscle stem cells in adult muscle regeneration in mammals.