Physical exercise and epigenetic modifications in skeletal muscle, brain, and heart.

Abstract

The origins of many diseases can be traced to the dynamic interplay of genetic predispositions and environmental exposures post-birth. Epigenetic modifications have recently gained prominence as a significant mediator between genetic information and environmental factors, influencing the occurrence and progression of disease. There is a burgeoning body of evidence supports that physical exercise, acting as an external environmental stimulus, exerts a discernible impact on major epigenetic modifications, including histone modifications, DNA methylation, RNA methylation, and non-coding RNA. This effect assumes a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of various human diseases. Exploring the epigenetic molecular mechanisms through which physical exercise enhances human health holds the promise of deepening our understanding of how it improves physiological functions, mitigates disease risks, and establishes a theoretical foundation for employing physical exercise as a non-pharmacological intervention in disease prevention and treatment.