The implications on clinical diagnostics of using microRNA-based biomarkers in exercise

Regular exercise is one of the best ways to maintain health and to prevent and control several chronic diseases. Identifying the molecular mechanisms associated with benefits of exercise is crucial and miRNAs have been suggested to be key players. Understanding the roles of miRNAs in these processes provides an opportunity to improve the clinical application of using exercise as a therapeutic intervention. Circulating miRNAs particularly are promising candidates for non-invasive biomarkers, which would enable oriented interventions. Furthermore, better and easier ways to assess exercise capacity can impact exercise evaluations and prescriptions, minimizing risks and monitoring the exercise response better. This review summarizes the current knowledge of miRNAs, recent advancements in miRNAs associated with exercise and addresses their role as biomarkers for exercise-related biological responses.