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Characterization and predicted role of microRNA expression profiles associated with early childhood obesity

Shengrong Ouyang1, Renqiao Tang2, Zhuo Liu1

  • 1Department of Biochemistry, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing 100020, P.R. China.

Molecular Medicine Reports
|August 3, 2017
PubMed

Insights

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a role in childhood obesity. This study identified 9 differentially expressed miRNAs in obese children

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Genetics
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are increasingly recognized for their role in metabolic diseases, including obesity.
  • Early childhood obesity is a growing public health concern with long-term health implications.
  • Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying early-onset obesity is crucial for developing effective interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the microRNA (miRNA) expression profile in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of obese children compared to lean controls.
  • To identify specific miRNAs associated with early childhood obesity.
  • To explore the potential target genes and biological functions regulated by these differentially expressed miRNAs.

Main Methods:

  • Recruitment of 12 children (6 obese, 6 lean controls) aged 36-48 months.
  • miRNA expression profiling of PBMCs using the NanoString nCounter system.
  • Bioinformatic analysis to identify target genes, protein interaction networks, and enriched biological/molecular functions.

Main Results:

  • Nine differentially expressed miRNAs were identified between obese and lean children (P<0.05).
  • miR-199a-3p/miR-199b-3p and miR-4454 showed at least a 1.5-fold change in expression.
  • Bioinformatics revealed 643 potential target genes, with 291 involved in a protein interaction network and enriched in biological and molecular functions.

Conclusions:

  • MicroRNA dysregulation is associated with early childhood obesity.
  • Specific miRNAs, including miR-199a-3p/miR-199b-3p and miR-4454, may serve as potential biomarkers for early childhood obesity.
  • Further research into miRNA-regulated pathways could uncover novel therapeutic targets for obesity.

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