Application of microRNA in Human Osteoporosis and Fragility Fracture: A Systemic Review of Literatures

Yen-Zung Wu1,2, Hsuan-Ti Huang1,2,3,4,5,6, Tsung-Lin Cheng1,3,4,7

  • 1Orthopaedic Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80701, Taiwan.

Insights

This review identifies key microRNAs (miRNAs) in blood for diagnosing osteoporosis. Several miRNAs show promise as diagnostic markers and potential therapeutic agents for osteoporosis treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Osteoporosis involves complex deregulated pathways.
  • MicroRNAs (miRNAs) offer a simplified approach to understanding these pathways.
  • Identifying specific miRNAs in blood can aid osteoporosis diagnosis and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To comprehensively review identified miRNAs in human blood related to osteoporosis.
  • To assess their diagnostic value and potential for clinical application.
  • To explore the mechanisms of action for promising miRNAs.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic literature search of the PubMed database (inception to December 2020).
  • Inclusion criteria: human blood samples and controlled study designs.
  • Analysis of diagnostic values and in vitro/in vivo mechanistic evidence.

Main Results:

  • Identified and compiled promising miRNAs from human blood samples.
  • Evaluated diagnostic values and mechanistic evidence for selected miRNAs.
  • Highlighted miR-23b-3p, miR-140-3p, miR-300, miR-155-5p, miR-208a-3p, and miR-637 as top candidates.

Conclusions:

  • Selected miRNAs demonstrate significant diagnostic potential for osteoporosis.
  • These miRNAs are also promising candidates for therapeutic interventions.
  • Further research is required to establish clinical utility for osteoporosis management.

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