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MicroRNAs in placental health and disease

Jean-François Mouillet1, Yingshi Ouyang1, Carolyn B Coyne2

  • 1Magee-Womens Research Institute, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA.

American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
|October 3, 2015
PubMed

Insights

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression. Placental miRNAs in maternal circulation show promise as biomarkers for pregnancy health, but challenges remain for clinical use.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics
  • Reproductive Biology

Background:

  • MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs regulating gene expression posttranscriptionally.
  • miRNAs play crucial roles in various genetic networks.
  • Their discovery has revolutionized understanding of gene regulation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review key findings on placental microRNAs (miRNAs).
  • To discuss the biologic actions and potential of miRNAs in placental biology.
  • To explore the use of circulating miRNAs as biomarkers for placental function during pregnancy.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on placental miRNAs.
  • Analysis of current knowledge regarding miRNA function in placental biology.
  • Discussion of challenges in clinical applications of miRNA biomarkers and therapeutics.

Main Results:

  • Placental miRNAs are released into maternal circulation, suggesting biomarker potential.
  • Significant research has illuminated placental miRNA roles over the last decade.
  • Challenges exist in translating miRNA research into clinical practice.

Conclusions:

  • Placental miRNAs are integral to gene regulation and pregnancy health.
  • Circulating miRNAs offer potential as non-invasive biomarkers for placental function.
  • Further research is needed to overcome challenges for clinical application of miRNA-based diagnostics and therapeutics.
Keywords:
C19MCadverse pregnancy outcomeexosomesmiRNAplacentapregnancy complicationsprimate-specific miRNAtrophoblasttrophoblast-specific miRNA

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