miRNA96 expression level within red blood cells is probably associated with RSL indicators during the storage of red...

Many biochemical and hematological changes occur during the storage of RBC units. Collectively, these changes are known as RSLs. Previous studies found miRNA96 as non-coding RNA that its expression level changed during RBC storage. However, its correlation with mechanical and biochemical RSL indicators is not yet determined. Therefore, this study aimed to assess possible correlations between miRNA96a and some RSLs indicators to clarify its biomarker capability for evaluating the storage quality of RBC units.

Samples were collected from ten leuko-reduced RBC units on days 0, 14, 28, and 42 of storage. miRNA96 gene expression level and RSLs indicators including hemolysis, mechanical fragility index (MFI), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), lipid peroxidation (TBARs), thiol groups, and RBC indices were measured on the days mentioned above.

Significant correlations were found between the changes in miRNA96 expression level and the levels of hemolysis, TAC, TBARs, and MFI indices (p values < 0.05). The donors were classified into the high risk group and low risk group, according to four important characteristics and lifestyle habits (smoking, physical activity, age, and BMI). The high risk group had a significantly lower rate of hemolysis, free hemoglobin, MFI, TAC, and a higher rate of lipid peroxidation compared to low risk group (p values < 0.05).

The finding suggested that upregulation of miRNA96 could prevent hemolysis of RBCs, despite the accumulation of oxidative injuries in them. The miRNA96 expression level was probably a potential predictor for mechanical and biochemical RSL indicators.