Exosomes and microRNAs as mediators of the exercise

Abstract

MicroRNAs (miRNAs), also known as microribonucleic acids, are small molecules found in specific tissues that are essential for maintaining proper control of genes and cellular processes. Environmental factors, such as physical exercise, can modulate miRNA expression and induce targeted changes in gene transcription. This article presents an overview of the present knowledge on the principal miRNAs influenced by physical activity in different tissues and bodily fluids. Numerous research projects have emphasized the significant impact of miRNAs on controlling biological changes brought about by physical activity. These molecules play main roles in important processes such as the growth of skeletal muscle and heart muscle cells, the creation of mitochondria, the development of the vascular system, and the regulation of metabolism. Studies have shown that physical exertion utilizes the contributions of miR-1, miR-133, miR-206, miR-208, and miR-486 to revitalize and restore skeletal muscle tissue. Moreover, detecting alterations in miRNA levels and connecting them to the specific outcomes of various exercise routines and intensities can act as indicators for physical adaptation and the reaction to physical activity in long-term diseases. Numerous studies have confirmed that extracellular vesicles (EVs) which composed of different members such as exosomes have the ability to reduce inflammation through the activation of the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB pathway. Furthermore, physical activity greatly affects the levels of specific miRNAs present in exosomes derived from skeletal muscle. Therefore, exosomal miRNAs target some pathways that are related to growth and development, such asWnt/β-catenin, PI3K/AKT, and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1). Exercise-induced exosomes have also been identified as important mediators in promoting beneficial effects throughout the body. The aim of this review is to summarize the effect of exercise on the function of miRNAs and exosomes.

Keywords: Biomarker; Epigenetic; Exercise; Exosome; MicroRNA.

Fig. 1

Crosstalk between miRNAs and exercise

Fig. 2

The role of miRNAs in the mechanism of restoring and renewing skeletal muscle tissue. miRNAs including miR-27, miR-133,miR-1, miR-378, miR-181, miR206, miR-140 and miR-486 have critical roles in various parts of skeletal muscle. Pax3 paired box gene 3, Msc mesenchymal stem cell, SRFs serum response factors, Myo D myogenic differentiation, FOXO Forkhead box O, PTEN phosphatase and tensin homolog

Fig. 3

A Heart tissue—a summary of how miRNAs function and stimulate pathways in response to physical activity, and their effects on cardiac muscle cells. B Muscular tissue—the role of miRNAs in causing various modifications in skeletal muscle cells. C Bone—how miRNAs contribute to changes in bone tissue

Fig. 4

A diagram illustrating the formation and release of exosomes reveals that they originate as ILVs and are filled with cargoes such as nucleic acids, proteins, and lipids. ALIX Apoptosis-Linked Gene 2-Interacting Protein X, ESCRT endosomal sorting complex required for transport, RAB27 Ras-related protein Rab-27, MVB multivesicular body, SNARE soluble NSF attachment protein receptor, ILV intraluminal vesicle

Fig. 5

A representation showing the emanation of exercise-triggered exosomes from actively moving skeletal muscle. These exosomes contains various substance such as DNA, lipids, proteins, and miRNAs

Fig. 6

Diagram illustrating the suggested source, discharge, content, and load of exosome-like vesicles in response to physical exertion. After undergoing multiple training sessions or a single occurrence of physical activity, EVs may be released from individual muscles or other cell clusters and enter the general circulation of the body. Modifications in the number of exosomes found in the bloodstream, coupled with the presence and abundance of specific markers (such as ALIX, TSG101, tetraspanins, flotillin, and heat shock proteins), as well as their contents (such as miRNA and 'myomiR'), have been observed as a result of physical activity

Fig. 7

Engaging in physical exercise can have a positive impact on reducing inflammation through the release of EVs. These EVs, coming from various sources, are known to carry molecules such as miRNAs and cytokines that have anti-inflammatory effects. Whether they originate from leukocytes, muscle cells, or platelets, the EVs work both locally and throughout the body via the bloodstream to target specific tissues. Ultimately, EVs produced during exercise act as a powerful anti-inflammatory force