Expression levels of selected cytokines and microRNAs in response to vitamin D supplementation in ultra‐marathon runners

Abstract

Ultra-marathon (UM) running is an extreme endurance exercise. However, the mechanisms triggered with its practice remain unclear. While it is documented that strenuous physical activity activates immune responses and vitamin D plays a role in immune system suppression, data on the relationship between vitamin D status and cytokine profile in athletic populations are limited. To analyse the relative mRNA expression levels of selected pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-17, TNF-α), COX-2, vitamin D receptor and abundance of selected inflammatory microRNAs (Hsa-miR-21, -miR-146a, -miR-150, -miR-155, -miR-222, -miR-223) before and after a 100 km race in amateur runners in the presence or absence of vitamin D supplementation. Twenty runners aged 36-40years were divided into two groups: with and without vitamin D3 supplementation (10,000units daily). Blood samples were collected before and 12 h after the UM. The mRNA expression levels of selected cytokines, COX-2 and VDR in peripheral blood and abundance of serum exosomal miRNAs were investigated using q-RT-PCR. After UM, the significant up-regulation of TNF-α and hsa-miR-155 and downregulation of IL-1β were observed in the group with vitamin D supplementation. In its absence, hsa-miR-155 and -miR-223 were significantly up-regulated. Additionally, a reverse correlation was observed between IL-6 expression level and abundance of hsa-miR-155 and -miR-223 in both groups. No statistical differences were noted when the other miRNAs and genes were examined in the groups and at the time points. The UM-induced mRNA expression pattern of proinflammatory cytokines could be influenced by vitamin D supplementation and/or miRNA.

Statement to the Letter to the Editor: MicroRNA Profile and Adaptive Response to Exercise Training: A Review

“…Indeed, there is a growing body of evidence implicating non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) critical role in regulation, which supports the ongoing revolution lead by Mattick and colleagues [1,2]. Whilst our previous work and review focussed on microRNAs [3][4][5][6][7][8], other emerging regulatory ncRNAs, such as the long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), are increasingly studied and found to have a profound effect on cellular processes [9]. Their potential regulatory influence on exercise biology and exercise-related phenotypes warrants thorough investigation.…”

Influence of exercise and vitamin D on the immune system against Covid-19: an integrative review of current literature

“…In a study evaluating cytokines and other inflammatory markers before and 12 h after running a 100 km run in amateur ultra-marathon runners, the researchers [ 16 ] applied a vitamin D supplementation protocol to part of the study participants. Thus, it was observed that the daily use of 10,000 IU of vitamin D for 2 weeks generated a significant reduction in circulating levels of IL-1β and an increase in circulating TNF-α and miR-155 after the 100 km course compared to pre-collection running, whereas in the group without supplementation no such trend was observed (Fig.…”

“…Also, studies have shown increased levels of the immune system’s constituents that are related to the defense of respiratory viral infections [ 15 ]. Further, a study suggested that the association of regular physical exercises and vitamin D supplementation was related to a notable reduction of proinflammatory markers such as cytokines [ 16 ], an effect that could be useful in combating the cytokine storm from Covid-19.…”

Epigenetic Regulation of Inflammatory Responses in the Context of Physical Activity

“…Ludwig and co-workers showed seasonal differences in the expression of immune-connected miR-181, miR-21, miR-29 and let-7 family members [ 138 ]. In a study of ultramarathon runners, vitamin D supplementation upregulated the expression of miR-155 and miR-223 in blood plasma after the run, in comparison to runners who did not supplement vitamin D [ 139 ]. Karvinen showed that the miR-21 expression found in vesicles changes not only in blood but also in sweat after exercise in comparison to non-exercise conditions (sauna) [ 127 ].…”