MicroRNAs and Exercise / MicroRNAs unter Einfluss körperlicher Belastung

Abstract

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have become a major object of investigation in the recent years. These small non-coding RNAs regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level and there is growing evidence that they are involved in a plethora of biological processes. With exercise as a potent trigger for adaptational responses thataffectvirtually all systems of the body, understanding miRNAs is a precondition for deeper insight into the adaptation of skeletal muscle (i.e. growth/regeneration) following exercise. These adaptations involve an increased need of protein synthesis regarding both resistance exercise and chronic endurance exercise. Apart from protein synthesis,miRNAs have a meaningful impact on regulating metabolic changes (e.g. muscle fiber phenotype/mitochondrial bio-genesis) as well. Altogether, these responses might be necessary to facilitate adaptation and regeneration following exercise.The role of miRNAs in circulation (c-miRNAs) has gathered considerable attention in recent years. It is of great interestwhether and how c-miRNAs modulated by exercise play a role in cell-to-cell communication and might be further considered responsible for beneficial effects in peripheral organs.This review summarizes what is currently known about the impact of miRNAs in skeletal muscle and their potential role as circulating biomarkers in response to either acute and/or chronic exercise with various modalities.KEY WORDS: MicroRNA, Exercise, Circulating MicroRNAs, Skeletal Muscle, Cardiovascular System