Exploring myostatin’s role and potential applications in fisheries and aquaculture: a review

The growth and development of muscles in vertebrates are regulated by myostatin and has garnered significant attention in aquaculture and fisheries due to its potential applications in increasing fish and shellfish production. The myostatin (MSTN) gene controls skeletal muscle development in all vertebrates. This strategy can increase fish growth and production of fish biomass. Higher concentrations of myostatin inhibit muscle growth, whereas lower concentrations accelerate it. Follistatin, a protein released by the liver cells in response to extreme physical activity, conquers myostatin. Therefore, there is significant interest in creating novel medications that block myostatin signaling to increase muscle mass in severe muscular atrophy. This review article provides valuable information on the significance of MSTN in enhancing the efficiency of aquaculture cultivation and it acts as an inhibitor of myogenesis by suppressing the proliferation and differentiation of myoblasts. Manipulating (inhibiting) myostatin expression has become a probable approach in fisheries to increase the muscle mass of fish, resulting in higher yields of edible sections in aquatic species used for aquaculture. This strategy may resolve the increasing global demand and supply for high-quality protein sources.

Graphical Abstract