Gut microbiota composition correlates with PBMC microRNA expression following maximal exercise testing in endurance...

Area of Science:

• Exercise physiology and molecular biology
• Microbiome research
• Immunology

Background:

• MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression and are involved in immune responses and exercise recovery.
• Both gut microbiota and peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC)-derived miRNAs are affected by endurance training.
• The relationship between gut microbiota and PBMC miRNAs in athletes is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore correlations between gut microbiota composition and PBMC miRNA expression in endurance athletes after maximal exercise.
• To identify specific microbial taxa and miRNA profiles associated with exercise stress.

Main Methods:

• Fifty-eight endurance athletes (runners, cyclists) and controls underwent maximal exercise testing.
• Blood samples were collected pre- and post-exercise for PBMC small RNA sequencing.
• Fecal samples were analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing for gut microbiota characterization.

Main Results:

• Thirteen significant correlations were found between SCFA-producing bacteria (e.g., Veillonella, Blautia) and PBMC miRNA expression.
• Specific miRNAs, including hsa-miR-545-3p and hsa-miR-126-3p, showed significant correlations.
• Some correlated miRNAs are known to influence inflammatory pathways and immune cell signaling.

Conclusions:

• This study is the first to show an association between gut microbiota and PBMC miRNA expression post-maximal exercise in athletes.
• The findings suggest a complex interplay between gut microbial composition and PBMC miRNA expression in response to exercise.
• Further research is warranted to explore these microbiota-miRNA associations for exercise-induced immune regulation and recovery.