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Epigenetic mechanisms of the cardioprotective effects of physical exercise

https://doi.org/10.30629/0023-2149-2025-103-2-104-107

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) remain one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with their prevalence continuing to rise due to population aging. Despite compelling evidence supporting the effectiveness of physical exercise in reducing CVD risk, the molecular mechanisms underlying these protective effects remain insufficiently understood. In recent years, an increasing number of studies have highlighted the key role of epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNA expression, in regulating cardiovascular health. Physical activity serves as a potent epigenetic modulator, inducing long-lasting changes in gene expression and activating signaling pathways associated with cardiovascular function. This mini-review presents current data on the impact of physical exercise on long non-coding RNA expression and their role in the pathogenesis and prevention of CVD. Recent studies confirm that epigenetic modifications induced by physical activity hold significant therapeutic potential for the prevention and treatment of CVD.

About the Authors

K. A. Aitbaev
I. Salymbekov University
Kyrgyzstan

Kubanych A. Aitbaev — Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor, Chief Consultant of the Department of Intensive Care, Therapy and Diagnostics.

Bishkek



I. T. Murkamilov
I. Salymbekov University; I.K. Akhunbaev Kyrgyz State Medical Academy
Kyrgyzstan

Ilkhom T. Murkamilov — Ilkhom Torobekovich Murkamilov — Doctor of Medical Sciences, Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Associate Professor of the Department of Faculty Therapy at the I.K. Akhunbayev KSMU; Head of the Department of Intensive Care, Therapy and Diagnostics at Salymbek University.

Bishkek



V. V. Fomin
I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Healthcare of the Russia (Sechenov University)
Russian Federation

Viktor V. Fomin — Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Rector.

Moscow



F. A. Yusupov
Osh State University
Russian Federation

Furkat A. Yusupov — Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor, Head of the Department of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry.

Osh



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Review

For citations:


Aitbaev K.A., Murkamilov I.T., Fomin V.V., Yusupov F.A. Epigenetic mechanisms of the cardioprotective effects of physical exercise. Clinical Medicine (Russian Journal). 2026;104(2):104-107. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.30629/0023-2149-2025-103-2-104-107

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ISSN 0023-2149 (Print)
ISSN 2412-1339 (Online)