This systematic review investigates the role of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including miRNAs, lncRNAs, circRNAs, and tRNAs, in regulating mitochondrial biogenesis, dynamics, oxidative phosphorylation, and mitophagy in skeletal muscle and the potential applications of these ncRNAs in exercise molecular physiology. We conducted a comprehensive search in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, identifying 45 relevant studies out of 2,378 records. The main findings indicate that miRNAs such as miR-128, miR-133a, miR-696, and miR-499 are critical regulators of mitochondrial function. Moreover, lncRNAs (lncEDCH1 and lncRNA-H19) and circRNA (circ-PTPN4) significantly influence mitochondrial biogenesis and function. Exercise interventions were shown to modulate the expression of these ncRNAs, particularly miR-133a and miR-696, leading to enhanced mitochondrial biogenesis and function. The review highlights the potential of these ncRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for improving mitochondrial function and treating metabolic and mitochondrial disorders. Further research is needed to explore the muscle-specific and exercise-modality-specific effects of ncRNAs to develop personalized interventions. Understanding the complex regulatory mechanisms of ncRNAs in mitochondrial adaptations can pave the way for innovative therapeutic strategies in exercise molecular physiology and metabolic health.
Chavez-Guevara et al. (2025) studied this question.