How Listening to Music Influences Human microRNA Expression: Insights from a Finnish Study

A study conducted in Finland, titled "Music-listening regulates human microRNA expression," published in Epigenetics in 2021, explored the impact of music on microRNA expression in the human body.  MicroRNAs are small RNA molecules that modulate gene expression by binding to specific messenger RNA (mRNA) sequences.  They can then either increase (upregulate) or decrease (downregulate) the expression of their target proteins.   

The study consisted of two groups: a Music Group, comprising 37 volunteers, and a Control Group, consisting of 7 volunteers.  The Music Group participants listened to Mozart's Violin Concerto No. 3 in G major for a duration of 20 minutes, while the Control Group had the option to read, take a leisurely walk, or engage in conversation for the same period.  Blood samples were collected from all participants before and after the activity and analyzed for microRNA expression levels. 

The study's results revealed statistically significant changes in microRNA expression in the Music Group compared to the Control Group.  Affected microRNAs were found to be associated with critical brain functions, including neuronal plasticity, myelination, and long-term memory consolidation. One of the microRNA’s affected was miR-132, which regulates TAU protein levels, a crucial factor in preventing the aggregation of tau proteins, which is implicated in Alzheimer's disease. 

Additionally, the upregulation of miR-132 and DICER after music listening was observed to protect dopaminergic neurons, which are a type of nerve cells that produce and release the neurotransmitter dopamine.  These neurons play a role in brain functions including reward processing and mood regulation. 

While these findings are promising, it is essential to acknowledge the study's limitations.  The small sample size affects the generalizability of the results.  Further research with larger and more diverse cohorts would be valuable to validate and expand upon these findings. 

So, what can we take away from this study? 

This study conducted in Finland provides interesting insights into the impact of listening to music on human microRNA expression, which subsequently affects gene modulation in the human body.  The specific microRNAs affected in the Music Group suggest a potential role for music in addressing various neurological conditions and neurodegenerative diseases.  Music, in addition to being a source of joy and entertainment, could potentially serve as a therapeutic tool for enhancing brain health and preventing neurodegenerative disorders. 

However, it is essential to remember that more extensive studies are required to confirm and explore the full extent of this relationship between listening to music and microRNA expression.  As we await further research, this study from Finland is a great reminder of the intricate connections between our experiences, our genes, and our overall health. 

Resources: 

https://cancer.osu.edu/microrna  Accessed July 30 2023 

Mohr AM, Mott JL. Overview of microRNA biology. Semin Liver Dis. 2015 Feb;35(1):3-11. doi: 10.1055/s-0034-1397344. Epub 2015 Jan 29. PMID: 25632930; PMCID: PMC4797991. 

Nair PS, Raijas P, Ahvenainen M, Philips AK, Ukkola-Vuoti L, Järvelä I. Music-listening regulates human microRNA expression. Epigenetics. 2021 May;16(5):554-566. doi: 10.1080/15592294.2020.1809853. Epub 2020 Sep 6. PMID: 32867562; PMCID: PMC8078736.