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Plasma MicroRNA as a novel diagnostic
Rafal Szelenberger1, Michal Kacprzak2, Joanna Saluk-Bijak1
1Department of General Biochemistry, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Pomorska 141/143, 90-236 Lodz, Poland.
Abstract:
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, single-stranded, endogenous, non-coding RNAs necessary for proper gene expression. Their mechanism of action controls translation by base-pairing with target messenger RNA (mRNAs) thus leading to translation blockage or mRNA degradation. Many studies have shown that miRNAs play pivotal roles in cancer, cardiovascular disease and neurodegenerative disorders. The lack of blood-derived biomarkers and those markers of poor specificity and sensitivity significantly impact the ability to diagnose in general and at early disease stage specifically. As such, new, non-invasive and quantifiable biomarkers are needed. As post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression, miRNAs have been confirmed to be notably stable in cells, tissues and body fluids. These and other advantages make miRNAs ideal candidates as potential biomarkers and early experimental findings support this finding. This review examines the use of miRNAs as biomarkers in cancer, neurodegenerative, cardiovascular and liver disease and viral infection.
Insights
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) show promise as non-invasive biomarkers for early disease detection. Their stability and role in gene regulation make them ideal for diagnosing cancer, neurodegenerative, and cardiovascular diseases.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Biochemistry
Background:
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNAs regulating gene expression post-transcriptionally.
- Dysregulation of miRNAs is implicated in various diseases, including cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
- Current diagnostic biomarkers often lack sensitivity, specificity, and non-invasiveness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the potential of miRNAs as biomarkers for disease diagnosis.
- To highlight the advantages of miRNAs over traditional biomarkers.
- To explore miRNA applications in oncology, neurology, cardiology, hepatology, and virology.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on miRNA function and disease association.
- Analysis of miRNA stability and presence in biological fluids.
- Examination of experimental findings supporting miRNA biomarker utility.
Main Results:
- miRNAs regulate gene expression by targeting messenger RNAs (mRNAs).
- miRNAs are stable in various biological samples, including blood.
- Emerging evidence supports miRNAs as sensitive and specific biomarkers.
Conclusions:
- miRNAs are valuable candidates for developing novel, non-invasive diagnostic biomarkers.
- Their stability and regulatory roles offer advantages for early disease detection.
- Further research is warranted to translate miRNA biomarker potential into clinical practice.
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