MicroRNAs: emerging players in apical periodontitis

Area of Science:

• Endodontics
• Molecular Biology
• Biomarkers

Background:

• Apical periodontitis is an inflammatory condition of periradicular tissues resulting from endodontic infections.
• Understanding the molecular mechanisms, including the role of microRNAs (miRNAs), is crucial for advancing endodontics.
• While over 2,000 human miRNAs are known, few have been linked to apical periodontitis pathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on apical periodontitis and miRNA biogenesis.
• To analyze the involvement and functions of miRNAs in diseased apical tissues.
• To explore the potential of miRNAs as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets in endodontics.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing studies on miRNAs in pulp and periradicular biology.
• Analysis of current models of apical periodontitis and miRNA biogenesis.
• Discussion of the diverse functions and potential clinical applications of identified miRNAs.

Main Results:

• MicroRNAs play significant roles in pulpitis, including odontogenic differentiation and inflammatory responses.
• Evidence suggests miRNAs are involved in the pathogenesis of apical periodontitis.
• Identified miRNAs exhibit diverse functions relevant to the condition.

Conclusions:

• Further identification and functional studies of miRNAs in apical periodontitis are essential for advancing endodontic knowledge.
• MicroRNAs show promise as diagnostic biomarkers due to their stability and ease of sampling.
• MiRNAs may serve as therapeutic targets, complementing conventional endodontic treatments.