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When less is more--microRNAs and psychiatric disorders
E Kolshus1, V S Dalton, K M Ryan
1Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland; Department of Psychiatry, Trinity College Dublin, St. Patrick's University Hospital, Dublin 8, Ireland.
Objective:
MicroRNAs are small non-coding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression, including genes involved in neuronal function and plasticity that have relevance for brain function and mental health. We therefore performed a systematic review of miRNAs in general adult psychiatric disorders.
Method:
Systematic searches in PubMed/MEDLINE and Web of Science were conducted to identify published clinical articles on microRNAs in general adult psychiatric disorders. We also reviewed references from included articles.
Results:
There is mounting evidence of microRNAs' regulatory roles in a number of central nervous system processes, including neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity. The majority of clinical studies of microRNAs in psychiatric disorders are in schizophrenia, where a number of specific microRNAs have been identified in separate studies. There is some evidence of marked downregulation of some microRNAs in affective disorders. Treatment with antidepressants appears to upregulate microRNA levels. There is currently little evidence from human studies in anxiety, addiction or other psychiatric disorders.
Conclusion:
MicroRNA research in psychiatry is currently in a nascent period, but represents an emerging and exciting area, with the potential to clarify molecular mechanisms of disease and identify novel biomarkers and therapeutic agents.
Insights
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) show potential in understanding psychiatric disorders. Research is emerging, with most studies focusing on schizophrenia and affective disorders, suggesting miRNAs could become future biomarkers and therapeutics.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of gene expression, influencing neuronal function and plasticity relevant to mental health.
- Dysregulation of miRNAs is implicated in various central nervous system processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the role of microRNAs in general adult psychiatric disorders.
- To identify current research trends and gaps in miRNA studies within psychiatry.
Main Methods:
- Conducted systematic literature searches in PubMed/MEDLINE and Web of Science.
- Included published clinical articles on microRNAs in adult psychiatric disorders.
- Reviewed references from identified studies.
Main Results:
- Significant evidence links miRNAs to neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity.
- Schizophrenia has the most extensive miRNA research, identifying specific miRNA alterations.
- Affective disorders show some miRNA downregulation; antidepressant treatment may upregulate miRNAs.
- Limited human studies exist for anxiety, addiction, and other psychiatric conditions.
Conclusions:
- MicroRNA research in psychiatry is in its early stages but shows significant promise.
- miRNAs offer potential for elucidating psychiatric disease mechanisms.
- Emerging research suggests miRNAs could serve as novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
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