MicroRNAs als molekulare Marker für physiologische Anpassungsreaktionen auf körperliche Ausdauerbelastung

In recent years research has increasingly focused on the identification of microRNAs (miRNAs) as biomarkers. The physiological adaptation to endurance exercise was also investigated in this context. The miRNAs are small non-coding RNAs that play a key role in posttranscriptional gene regulation. This short article provides an overview of the principles of miRNAs, their biogenetic pathways and functions and current knowledge on their role in adaptation to endurance exercise. Research shows that the miRNAs circulating in blood and other body fluids are expressed in specific patterns in response to exercise. These changes are dependent on the type (e.g., anaerobic or aerobic exercise, endurance vs. strength training), intensity and duration of the training. In addition, there is evidence that miRNAs show gender-specific responses to physical exercise. The knowledge on miRNAs as biomarkers provide not only insights into the mechanisms of training adaptation but could also have practical applications in preventive health promotion and occupational health management; however, long-term studies and further research are needed to fully understand the exact relationships and the potential of miRNAs as therapeutic targets.