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MicroRNAs associated with exercise and diet: a systematic review
Elena Flowers1, Gloria Y Won2, Yoshimi Fukuoka3
1Department of Physiological Nursing, School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, California; elena.flowers@ucsf.edu.
Physiological Genomics
|December 4, 2014
Summary
Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) show promise as biomarkers for lifestyle changes. This review found evidence linking exercise to miRNAs, but more research is needed for diet and weight loss interventions.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of gene expression.
- Circulating miRNAs can reflect biological adaptations to environmental factors.
- Measuring circulating miRNAs may offer insights into behavioral interventions for weight management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the literature on circulating miRNAs associated with exercise, diet, and weight loss.
- To summarize current knowledge and identify research gaps in this field.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review of three scientific databases was conducted.
- Studies reporting on circulating miRNAs related to exercise, diet, and weight loss in humans were included.
- 14 studies were selected from 1,219 initially identified.
Main Results:
- Twelve studies reported associations between circulating miRNAs and exercise.
- Two studies explored miRNAs in relation to diet and weight loss.
- Evidence for exercise-associated miRNAs is stronger than for diet-associated miRNAs due to study numbers.
Conclusions:
- Circulating miRNAs show potential as biomarkers for exercise interventions.
- Further methodologically rigorous research is required to validate findings and identify specific miRNA signatures for weight loss interventions.
- Longitudinal studies are needed to assess the predictive value of miRNAs for behavioral intervention outcomes.
