Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 21, 2026

Author Spotlight: Exploring Sex-Specific Glial Signatures and Therapeutic Leads for Alzheimer's Disease
Published on: May 20, 2024
Identification of serum microRNAs as potential biomarkers in Pompe disease
Ana Carrasco-Rozas1, Esther Fernández-Simón1, Maria Cinta Lleixà1
1Neuromuscular Disorders Unit, Neurology Department, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
Objective:
To analyze the microRNA profile in serum of patients with Adult Onset Pompe disease (AOPD).
Methods:
We analyzed the expression of 185 microRNAs in serum of 15 AOPD patients and five controls using microRNA PCR Panels. The expression levels of microRNAs that were deregulated were further studied in 35 AOPD patients and 10 controls using Real-Time PCR. Additionally, the skeletal muscle expression of microRNAs which showed significant increase levels in serum samples was also studied. Correlations between microRNA serum levels and muscle function test, spirometry, and quantitative muscle MRI were performed (these data correspond to the study NCT01914536 at ClinicalTrials.gov).
Results:
We identified 14 microRNAs that showed different expression levels in serum samples of AOPD patients compared to controls. We validated these results in a larger cohort of patients and we found increased levels of three microRNAs, the so called dystromirs: miR-1-3p, miR-133a-3p, and miR-206. These microRNAs are involved in muscle regeneration and the expression of these was increased in patients' muscle biopsies. Significant correlations between microRNA levels and muscle function test were found.
Interpretation:
Serum expression levels of dystromirs may represent additional biomarkers for the follow-up of AOPD patients.
Insights
Serum microRNA analysis in Adult Onset Pompe disease (AOPD) revealed elevated levels of three dystromirs (miR-1-3p, miR-133a-3p, miR-206). These may serve as novel biomarkers for monitoring AOPD progression.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Adult Onset Pompe disease (AOPD) is a rare genetic disorder affecting muscle function.
- Identifying reliable biomarkers for AOPD diagnosis and monitoring is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the serum microRNA profile in patients with AOPD.
- To identify potential microRNA biomarkers for AOPD.
Main Methods:
- Serum microRNA expression was analyzed using PCR panels and Real-Time PCR in AOPD patients and controls.
- Skeletal muscle microRNA expression was also examined.
- Correlations with clinical assessments including muscle function tests, spirometry, and MRI were performed.
Main Results:
- Fourteen microRNAs showed differential expression in AOPD patient serum.
- Three specific microRNAs (miR-1-3p, miR-133a-3p, miR-206), termed dystromirs, were significantly elevated in AOPD patients.
- These dystromirs were also increased in muscle biopsies and correlated with muscle function.
Conclusions:
- Elevated serum dystromir levels show potential as biomarkers for AOPD.
- These findings may aid in the follow-up and management of AOPD patients.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
MicroRNAs
MicroRNAs
Drug Dosing in Renal Diseases: Measurement of Serum Creatinine Concentration and Clearance
Drug Dosing in Renal Diseases: Estimation of Glomerular Filtration Rate Based on Serum Creatinine Concentration
Potential Energy
Chemical bonds that form attractive forces between atoms also contain potential energy, called chemical energy. When a chemical reaction...
Standard Electrode Potentials

