Under-expression of microRNA-146a and 21 and their association with Crohn's disease

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) can post-transcriptionally regulate gene expression and are involved in the immune response. Excessive immune response to the gut microbiota plays a major role in the pathogenesis of Crohn's disease (CD). Regarding the role of miRNAs in immune response, this study aimed to investigate the contribution of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of CD. A total of 53 participants, including 23 CD patients and 30 healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled in this study. miRNAs, including miR-21, miR-29a, miR-29b, miR-31, miR-146a, miR-155, miR-181a, and miR-181c were evaluated via TaqMan MicroRNA Assays. Among the eight miRNAs, the amounts of miR-146a and miR-21 were significantly decreased in the CD patients relative to HC subjects. Moreover, we showed that there was a negative correlation between miR-146a and Harvey-Bradshaw index (HBI), as well as a positive correlation of miR-21 and miR-29b with HBI. Under-expression of miR-146a and miR-21, which are critical for the regulatory function of regulatory T cells (Tregs), is remarkably associated with CD.