Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 11, 2026
A Methodological Approach to Non-invasive Assessments of Vascular Function and Morphology
Published on: February 7, 2015
Correlation between circulating microRNAs and vascular biomarkers in type 2 diabetes based upon physical activity: a
Hadeel A Al-Rawaf1,2, Sami A Gabr2, Talal Alghadir3
1Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11433, Saudi Arabia.
Background:
This research investigated how physical activity (PA) might impact the expression of several microRNAs, specifically miR-126, miR-146a, miR-34a, miR-124a, miR-155, and miR-221, in the blood of elderly individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Additionally, the study examined the relationship between these microRNAs and markers of vascular endothelial dysfunction, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I), and apolipoprotein B (apoB), to assess their potential in the prevention, early detection, and treatment of diabetes.
Methods:
This correlational observational study involved 100 male participants, aged between 18 and 65 years, all of whom had been living with type 2 diabetes (T2D) for over six years. The participants were divided into three groups: inactive, moderate, and active, depending on their level of physical activity (PA). Real-time PCR and immunoassays were employed to measure the expression of selected miRNAs, as well as VEGF, apoA-I, apoB, and diabetic management indicators. PA levels were determined using ACTi graph GT1M accelerometer (model WAM 7164; Fort Walton Beach, FL) and energy expenditure was measured in the form of metabolic equivalent (MET) by indirect calorimetry method.
Results:
The expression levels of miR-146a, miR-34a, and miR-124a were significantly higher in patients with higher physical activity, while no such increase was observed for the other miRNAs in less active participants. Additionally, PA-active individuals showed a more pronounced decrease in fasting blood sugar (FBS), insulin resistance (IR), fasting insulin (FINS), HOMA-IR, HbA1c (%), and levels of VEGF, apoAI, apoB, and the apoB/apoA-I ratio. The alteration in miRNA expression was positively associated with physical activity, VEGF, apoAI, apoB, the apoB/apoA-I ratio, and diabetes-related metrics, while being inversely related to BMI.
Conclusions:
In diabetic patients with higher physical activity levels, circulating miR-146a, miR-34a, and miR-124a showed elevated expression, accompanied by a notable decrease in vascular biomarkers, including apoAI, apoB, and the apoB/apoA-I ratio. The findings revealed a strong correlation between these vascular biomarkers and the physiological responses of miR-146a, miR-34a, and miR-124a, though larger studies are required to validate these results further.
Trial Registration:
Not applicable.
Insights
Physical activity in type 2 diabetes (T2D) increases miR-146a, miR-34a, and miR-124a expression, improving vascular health and diabetes markers. This highlights the role of specific microRNAs in T2D management through exercise.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Molecular Biology
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is linked to vascular endothelial dysfunction.
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a role in T2D pathogenesis and vascular health.
- Physical activity (PA) is a key intervention for T2D management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of physical activity (PA) on specific microRNA (miRNA) expressions in T2D patients.
- To examine the relationship between these miRNAs and vascular endothelial dysfunction markers.
- To assess the potential of miRNAs as biomarkers for T2D prevention, early detection, and treatment.
Main Methods:
- Correlational observational study of 100 male T2D patients (duration > 6 years).
- Participants categorized into inactive, moderate, and active PA groups based on accelerometer data.
- Real-time PCR and immunoassays used to measure miRNA expression and biomarkers (VEGF, apoA-I, apoB).
Main Results:
- Higher PA correlated with increased expression of miR-146a, miR-34a, and miR-124a.
- Active individuals showed improved glycemic control (FBS, IR, HOMA-IR, HbA1c) and reduced VEGF, apoB, and apoB/apoA-I ratio.
- miRNA expression positively associated with PA and negatively with BMI.
Conclusions:
- Elevated circulating miR-146a, miR-34a, and miR-124a in active T2D patients correlate with improved vascular biomarkers.
- These miRNAs may serve as indicators of physiological responses to PA in T2D.
- Further research is needed to validate these findings in larger cohorts.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Coronary Artery Disease I: Introduction
01:26Type I Diabetes II: Pathophysiology
01:24Type II Diabetes II: Pathophysiology