Elevated expression of miR-142-3p is related to the pro-inflammatory function of monocyte-derived dendritic cells in

Yilun Wang1, Jun Liang2, Haihong Qin1

  • 1Department of Dermatology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, 12 Wulumuqi Zhong Road, Shanghai, 200040, People's Republic of China.

Abstract

Insights

MicroRNA-142-3p promotes inflammation in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) by altering dendritic cell (DC) function. This suggests miR-142-3p as a potential therapeutic target for SLE treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Alterations in dendritic cell (DC) function are implicated in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
  • The precise mechanisms driving DC dysfunction in SLE remain incompletely understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the altered function of monocyte-derived DCs (moDCs) in SLE.
  • To elucidate the specific contribution of miR-142-3p to DC-mediated inflammation in SLE.

Main Methods:

  • Cultured moDCs from SLE patients and healthy controls, analyzing cytokine and chemokine profiles.
  • Performed miRNA profiling on LPS-stimulated moDCs to identify differentially expressed miRNAs.
  • Overexpressed miR-142-3p in moDCs and assessed its impact on cytokine secretion and CD4+ T cell responses in co-culture systems.

Main Results:

  • SLE moDCs exhibited elevated levels of IL-6, CCL2, and CCL5, attracting more CD4+ T cells.
  • Microarray analysis revealed 18 differentially expressed miRNAs in SLE moDCs, with miR-142-3p being significantly upregulated.
  • Overexpression of miR-142-3p in control moDCs increased pro-inflammatory cytokines (CCL2, CCL5, CXCL8, IL-6, TNF-α), enhanced CD4+ T cell attraction, and reduced Treg proportion without affecting T cell proliferation.

Conclusions:

  • miR-142-3p plays a crucial role in regulating the pro-inflammatory functions of moDCs in SLE pathogenesis.
  • These findings highlight miR-142-3p as a potential novel therapeutic target for managing SLE.