The role of microRNAs in regulating inflammation and exercise-induced adaptations in rheumatoid arthritis

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenously generated single-stranded RNAs that play crucial roles in numerous biological processes, such as cell development, proliferation, differentiation, metabolism and apoptosis. They negatively regulate target gene expression by repressing translation of messenger RNA into a functional protein. Several miRNAs have been implicated in the development and progression of RA. They are involved in inflammatory and immune processes and are associated with susceptibility to RA and disease activity. They are also considered to be potential markers of disease activity or even therapeutic targets. Likewise, several miRNAs are affected acutely by exercise and regulate exercise-related adaptations in the skeletal muscle and cardiovascular system and aerobic fitness. Interestingly, some miRNAs affected by exercise are also important in the context of RA. Investigating these might increase our understanding of the effects of exercise in RA and improve exercise prescription and, potentially, disease management. In this review, we focus on the miRNAs that are associated with both RA and exercise and discuss their roles in (and potential interactions between) RA and exercise-induced adaptations.