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Spotlight on microRNAs in allergy and asthma
Julie Weidner1, Sabine Bartel2, Ayse Kılıç3
1Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Krefting Research Centre, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
Abstract:
In past 10 years, microRNAs (miRNAs) have gained scientific attention due to their importance in the pathophysiology of allergic diseases and their potential as biomarkers in liquid biopsies. They act as master post-transcriptional regulators that control most cellular processes. As one miRNA can target several mRNAs, often within the same pathway, dysregulated expression of miRNAs may alter particular cellular responses and contribute, or lead, to the development of various diseases. In this review, we give an overview of the current research on miRNAs in allergic diseases, including atopic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, and asthma. Specifically, we discuss how individual miRNAs function in the regulation of immune responses in epithelial cells and specialized immune cells in response to different environmental factors and respiratory viruses. In addition, we review insights obtained from experiments with murine models of allergic airway and skin inflammation and offer an overview of studies focusing on miRNA discovery using profiling techniques and bioinformatic modeling of the network effect of multiple miRNAs. In conclusion, we highlight the importance of research into miRNA function in allergy and asthma to improve our knowledge of the molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of this heterogeneous group of diseases.
Insights
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are crucial regulators in allergic diseases like asthma. Research highlights their role in immune responses and potential as biomarkers for better understanding and treatment of allergies.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key post-transcriptional regulators involved in cellular processes.
- Dysregulated miRNA expression is implicated in the pathophysiology of various diseases, including allergic conditions.
- miRNAs show promise as biomarkers in liquid biopsies for allergic diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of current research on miRNAs in allergic diseases.
- To discuss the function of individual miRNAs in immune responses within epithelial and immune cells.
- To explore insights from murine models and miRNA discovery techniques.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current research on miRNAs in allergic diseases.
- Analysis of miRNA function in immune regulation in response to environmental factors and viruses.
- Examination of data from murine models of allergic inflammation.
- Overview of miRNA profiling techniques and bioinformatic network modeling.
Main Results:
- miRNAs play significant roles in the pathophysiology of atopic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, and asthma.
- Specific miRNAs regulate immune responses in epithelial and immune cells.
- Murine models provide insights into allergic airway and skin inflammation.
- Profiling and bioinformatic analyses aid in understanding miRNA networks.
Conclusions:
- Further research into miRNA function is essential for understanding the molecular mechanisms of allergic diseases.
- miRNAs are critical in the pathogenesis of heterogeneous allergic conditions like asthma.
- Understanding miRNA networks can lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for allergies.
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