Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 28, 2025

Systemic Delivery of MicroRNA Using Recombinant Adeno-associated Virus Serotype 9 to Treat Neuromuscular Diseases in Rodents
Published on: August 10, 2018
The emerging role of miR-128 in musculoskeletal diseases
Qi Shang1,2, Gengyang Shen2,3, Guifeng Chen1,2
1The First Clinical Medical School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.
Abstract:
MicroRNA-128 (miR-128) is associated with cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, apoptosis, and survival. Genetic analysis studies have demonstrated that miR-128 participates in bone metabolism, which involves bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells, osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and adipocytes. miR-128 also participates in regeneration of skeletal muscles by targeting myoblast-associated proteins. The deregulation of miR-128 could lead to a series of musculoskeletal diseases. In this review, we discuss recent findings of miR-128 in relation to bone metabolism and muscle regeneration to determine its potential therapeutic effects in musculoskeletal diseases, and to propose directions for future research in this significant field.
Insights
MicroRNA-128 (miR-128) is crucial for bone metabolism and skeletal muscle regeneration. Its deregulation is linked to musculoskeletal diseases, suggesting miR-128 as a potential therapeutic target.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- MicroRNA-128 (miR-128) plays a role in cellular processes like proliferation, differentiation, migration, apoptosis, and survival.
- Genetic studies indicate miR-128 involvement in bone metabolism, including mesenchymal stem cells, osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and adipocytes.
- miR-128 is also implicated in skeletal muscle regeneration through its targeting of myoblast-associated proteins.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent findings on miR-128's role in bone metabolism and muscle regeneration.
- To explore the potential therapeutic applications of miR-128 in musculoskeletal diseases.
- To suggest future research directions in this field.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of genetic analysis studies and recent findings.
- Analysis of miR-128's involvement in cellular processes.
- Examination of miR-128's targets in bone and muscle tissues.
Main Results:
- miR-128 is a key regulator in bone metabolism and skeletal muscle regeneration.
- Deregulation of miR-128 is associated with the development of musculoskeletal disorders.
- miR-128 influences critical cell types and proteins involved in bone and muscle health.
Conclusions:
- miR-128 holds significant therapeutic potential for treating musculoskeletal diseases.
- Further research into miR-128 mechanisms could unlock novel treatment strategies.
- Understanding miR-128's function is vital for advancing musculoskeletal health research.
Related Concept Videos
Satellite Stem Cells and Muscular Dystrophy
Disorders of the Skeletal Muscle
Musculoskeletal disorders
Musculoskeletal disorders involve injuries and conditions affecting the skeletal muscles and associated connective tissues. These disorders can arise from acute biomechanical stresses or chronic overuse and can occur across different age groups. Common injuries include sprains, fractures, and muscular strains, often resulting from...
Formation of Muscle Fibers from Myoblasts
Muscle progenitor cells (MPCs) are formed from the myotomes. MPCs express genes that encode the transcription factors Pax3 and Pax7. Along with Pax 3/7, other transcription...

