MicroRNAs in skeletal muscle biology and exercise adaptation

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as important players in the regulation of gene expression, being involved in most biological processes examined to date. The proposal that miRNAs are primarily involved in the stress response of the cell makes miRNAs ideally suited to mediate the response of skeletal muscle to changes in contractile activity. Although the field is still in its infancy, the studies presented in this review highlight the promise that miRNAs will have an important role in mediating the response and adaptation of skeletal muscle to various modes of exercise. The roles of miRNAs in satellite cell biology, muscle regeneration, and various myopathies are also discussed. [Display omitted] •MicroRNA expression changes in response to both acute and chronic exercise.•Expression of muscle-specific microRNAs known as myomiRs changes in response to exercise.•The microRNAs involved in adaptation to exercise seem to be specific for the type and intensity of exercise.•MicroRNAs have a role in skeletal muscle development and muscle diseases such as muscular dystrophy.