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The role of microRNA in myelodysplastic syndromes: beyond DNA methylation and histone modification
Vibor Milunović1,2, Inga Mandac Rogulj1, Ana Planinc-Peraica1,3
1Division of Hematology, Clinical Hospital Centre Merkur, Zagreb, Croatia.
Abstract:
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are heterogeneous group of hematologic disorders of mostly elderly and based on distinct clinical phenotypes. Current paradigm of their pathogenesis relies on somatic gene mutations combined with the predisposing defective osteohematopoietic niche, but due to the breakout in epigenetic research scientific focus has steered toward two most common epigenetic modifications: methylation mechanisms and histone modification. At the same time, relatively few studies have been undertaken regarding the third epigenetic pathway - microRNAs - in MDS. The main aim of this review is to provide the basics of microRNA biology and function in oncogenesis, showing the complexity of mechanisms behind this single-stranded 22 nucleotides long RNA molecule, with further focus on its implication in MDS pathology and clinical context. By extensive literature search, we have shown enough evidence for their deregulation in MDS. However, few studies have addressed the issue on pathogenic events in MDS and its association with specific microRNAs. Preliminary research in clinical setting has shown the possible utility of microRNAs in terms of prognosis and therapy, although we are only beginning to understand various implications of microRNAs in MDS and further extensive research is warranted to answer multiple questions arising from interconnection of this epigenetic mechanism in MDS.
Insights
MicroRNAs, a key epigenetic mechanism, are deregulated in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). Further research is needed to understand their role in MDS pathology, prognosis, and therapy.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Epigenetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are heterogeneous hematologic disorders primarily affecting the elderly.
- Current understanding of MDS pathogenesis involves somatic mutations and a defective osteohematopoietic niche.
- Epigenetic research has focused on methylation and histone modifications, with microRNAs being less explored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review microRNA biology and function in oncogenesis.
- To explore the implications of microRNAs in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) pathology and clinical context.
- To highlight the need for further research into microRNA's role in MDS.
Main Methods:
- Extensive literature search on microRNA deregulation in MDS.
- Analysis of existing studies on microRNA function in oncogenesis.
- Review of preliminary clinical research on microRNA utility in MDS.
Main Results:
- Evidence supports the deregulation of microRNAs in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS).
- Limited studies have investigated the direct link between specific microRNAs and MDS pathogenic events.
- Preliminary clinical data suggests potential utility of microRNAs for MDS prognosis and therapy.
Conclusions:
- MicroRNAs represent a significant, yet understudied, epigenetic pathway in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS).
- Understanding the complex interplay between microRNAs and MDS is crucial for advancing diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
- Extensive research is warranted to fully elucidate the role of microRNAs in MDS pathogenesis and clinical management.
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