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microRNAs in asthma: potential therapeutic targets
Catherine M Greene1, Kevin P Gaughan
1Respiratory Research Division, Department of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Education and Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland. cmgreene@rcsi.ie
Current Opinion in Pulmonary Medicine
|October 26, 2012
Summary
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) show promise for treating asthma by targeting its underlying mechanisms. miRNA-based therapies could offer new ways to manage asthma symptoms and inflammation.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Research
- Molecular Biology
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Asthma affects millions globally, with current treatments offering symptomatic relief but potential side effects.
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are regulatory RNAs influencing protein synthesis and emerging as therapeutic targets.
- Targeting specific miRNAs may provide novel treatment strategies for asthma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of microRNAs in asthma pathophysiology.
- To explore the potential of miRNA-based therapeutics for asthma treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent studies on miRNA involvement in asthma.
- Analysis of experimental data from mouse models and genetic studies.
- Investigation of miRNA modulation using premiRs and antimiRs.
Main Results:
- Specific miRNAs are implicated in asthma pathophysiology, with altered levels observed in response to allergen challenges.
- MiRNAs regulating interleukin-13 and TH2 responses are modifiable, suggesting therapeutic potential.
- MiRNAs are involved in bronchial smooth muscle hyperresponsiveness and proliferation.
- Genetic variations in miRNAs and their targets contribute to asthma susceptibility.
Conclusions:
- Developing miRNA-based medicines offers a promising avenue for treating asthma's inflammatory and hyperresponsive components.
- These novel therapeutics could provide new treatment properties for pulmonary manifestations of asthma.
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