Does intense exercise affect miRNA levels in urine?
Intense exercise causes transient release of miRNAs from skeletal muscle and other exercised tissues into circulation — a phenomenon sometimes called 'exercise-induced exerkine miRNA.' Some studies show that miR-21 can transiently rise after very intense exercise (such as marathon running or extreme interval training). However, exercise-induced miRNA elevation is transient (returning to baseline within hours) and is typically much lower than the 1.5× HL threshold. Routine exercise — including vigorous gym workouts — is not expected to affect your OncuraKit results. As a general precaution, we suggest collecting your sample on a rest day or at least 24 hours after unusually intense exercise. Normal, regular physical activity at any time is not a concern.