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Effects of structured exercise training on miRNA expression in previously sedentary individuals
Barbara Mayr1,2, Michael Neudorfer1, Daniela Wurhofer2
1University Institute of Sports Medicine, Prevention and Rehabilitation and Research Institute of Molecular Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria.
Plos One
|December 18, 2024
Summary
Long-term exercise in sedentary individuals improved cardiovascular health by altering microRNA profiles. A four-month intervention shifted atherogenic microRNAs toward a healthier, anti-inflammatory state, indicating improved metabolic function.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Molecular Biology
- Cardiovascular Disease Prevention
Background:
- Micro ribonucleic acids (miRNAs) exhibit anti-atherogenic and anti-inflammatory properties following acute exercise.
- The long-term effects of exercise on miRNA responses to maximal cardiopulmonary exercise tests (CPET) in sedentary individuals are not well understood.
- Sedentary lifestyles increase cardiovascular disease risk, highlighting the need to understand exercise's molecular impact.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of a four-month exercise intervention on CPET-induced miRNA expression in sedentary adults.
- To determine if increased physical activity alters miRNA profiles related to inflammation and cardiovascular health.
- To assess changes in specific miRNAs linked to metabolic pathways and atherogenic properties.
Main Methods:
- Thirty-four sedentary participants completed a four-month app-assisted exercise program, increasing moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) to over 150 min/week.
- Maximal cardiopulmonary exercise tests (CPET) were performed at baseline and post-intervention, with capillary blood samples collected.
- Real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to analyze twenty pre-selected miRNAs known for their roles in exercise response, inflammation, and cardiovascular health.
Main Results:
- MVPA increased significantly (+553%), and maximal power output during CPET improved (+9%).
- Eleven of twenty miRNAs showed significant CPET-induced responses post-intervention.
- miR-103a (glycolysis), miR-146a (inflammation), and miR-222 (cardiac remodeling) increased, while miR-30a (inflammation) decreased, indicating a shift towards a healthier profile.
Conclusions:
- A four-month exercise intervention significantly altered CPET-induced miRNA expression in sedentary individuals.
- The observed miRNA changes suggest improved metabolic health and reduced inflammation.
- This study indicates that sustained physical activity can promote a cardioprotective molecular profile.
