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Isolation and Profiling of MicroRNA-containing Exosomes from Human Bile
Published on: June 13, 2016
MicroRNA and Human Bone Health
Vincent Ka-Fai Cheng1, Philip Chun-Ming Au1, Kathryn Cb Tan2
1Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy The University of Hong Kong Pokfulam Hong Kong.
Abstract:
The small non-coding microRNAs (miRNAs) are post-transcription regulators that modulate diverse cellular process in bone cells. Because optimal miRNA targeting is essential for their function, single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within or proximal to the loci of miRNA (miR-SNPs) or mRNA (PolymiRTS) could potentially disrupt the miRNA-mRNA interaction, leading to changes in bone metabolism and osteoporosis. Recent human studies of skeletal traits using miRNA profiling, genomewide association studies, and functional studies started to decipher the complex miRNA regulatory network. These studies have indicated that miRNAs may be a promising bone marker. This review focuses on human miRNA studies on bone traits and discusses how genetic variants affect bone metabolic pathways. Major ex vivo investigations using human samples supported with animal and in vitro models have shed light on the mechanistic role of miRNAs. Furthermore, studying the miRNAs' signatures in secondary osteoporosis and osteoporotic medications such as teriparatide (TPTD) and denosumab (DMab) have provided valuable insight into clinical management of the disease. © 2018 The Authors. JBMR Plus Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Insights
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate bone cells, and genetic variations can impact bone metabolism and osteoporosis risk. Studying these genetic variants offers insights into bone health and disease management.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
- Bone Metabolism
Background:
- Small non-coding microRNAs (miRNAs) are crucial post-transcriptional regulators in bone cells.
- Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in miRNA or mRNA loci (miR-SNPs, PolymiRTS) can disrupt miRNA-mRNA interactions.
- These disruptions may alter bone metabolism, potentially contributing to osteoporosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review human microRNA studies related to bone traits.
- To discuss the impact of genetic variants on bone metabolic pathways.
- To explore the role of miRNAs in osteoporosis and their potential as biomarkers.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of human studies including miRNA profiling and genome-wide association studies.
- Integration of ex vivo investigations with animal and in vitro models.
- Examination of miRNA signatures in secondary osteoporosis and response to medications like teriparatide and denosumab.
Main Results:
- Human studies indicate microRNAs are promising biomarkers for bone health.
- Genetic variants influencing miRNA function can affect bone metabolism.
- MicroRNA signatures provide insights into secondary osteoporosis and treatment efficacy.
Conclusions:
- MicroRNAs play a significant role in bone cell regulation and metabolism.
- Genetic variations in miRNA pathways are implicated in osteoporosis development.
- MicroRNA research offers potential for improved diagnosis and clinical management of bone diseases.
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