MicroRNAs: exploring new horizons in osteoarthritis

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Genetics
• Rheumatology

Background:

• Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent global disease causing significant morbidity.
• Molecular mechanisms, particularly microRNAs (miRNAs), are increasingly recognized in OA pathogenesis.
• MicroRNAs are small, non-coding RNAs with crucial regulatory roles, detectable in tissues and circulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of current evidence on the roles of microRNAs in osteoarthritis.
• To update the understanding of miRNA involvement in OA molecular mechanisms.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted using MeSH terms 'microRNA' and 'osteoarthritis'.
• Review of identified studies focusing on miRNA expression and function in OA.

Main Results:

• Aberrant expression of specific miRNAs (e.g., miR-9, miR-140, miR-146a) is observed in OA.
• Dysregulated miRNAs influence inflammatory pathways and extracellular matrix degradation (e.g., MMP-13).
• MiRNAs are implicated in OA pain pathways and symptom expression.

Conclusions:

• Circulating miRNAs show potential as biomarkers for OA disease activity.
• These findings suggest future therapeutic strategies targeting miRNAs for OA management.