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Published on: July 12, 2021
Expression of MicroRNA 146a, 155, 181 and 223 in febrile seizure
Kürşat Bora Çarman1, Yasemin Karal2, Gülen Gül Mert3
1Division of Pediatric Neurology, Eskişehir Osmangazi University Faculty of Medicine, Eskişehir.
Background:
We studied microRNAs (miRNAs) -146a, -155, -181 and -223 expressions and proinflammatory cytokine levels in children with Febrile seizure (FS) and compared to febrile controls.
Methods:
This prospective multicenter study examined representative populations in eight different cities in Turkey between June 30, 2018 and July 1, 2019. Blood samples were taken from all children at presentation. The real time (RT) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were used to measure the expressions of microRNAs and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) levels were studied by enzyme-linked immuno-sorbent assay.
Results:
The study was conducted with 60 children; 30 children with FS and 30 children in the febrile control group. The seizure was classified as simple FS in 73.3 % and half of the children were experiencing their first FS episode. Although the expression levels of miRNAs-146a, -181a and -155 were higher in febrile seizure patients, only miRNAs 146a level was significantly higher in FS patients. Serum TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 levels were higher in the FS group than the controls. The results of statistical analysis showed that there were correlations within miRNA expressions in children with FS. No differences were found considering miRNA expression between FS type, number of FS experienced.
Conclusions:
miRNAs-146a, -181a, -155 and -223 may be involved in FS pathogenesis. Altered miRNA expression levels might be an adaptive response to inflammation. New therapeutic approaches might be developed based on miRNA expressions in children with FS.
Insights
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) and inflammatory cytokines are altered in children with febrile seizures (FS). Specifically, miRNA-146a levels were significantly higher in FS patients, suggesting a role in FS pathogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Molecular Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Febrile seizures (FS) are common in children.
- The role of microRNAs (miRNAs) and inflammatory cytokines in FS pathogenesis is not fully understood.
- This study investigates specific miRNAs and cytokines in children with FS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the expression levels of specific microRNAs (miRNAs) -146a, -155, -181a, and -223 in children with febrile seizures (FS) versus febrile controls.
- To measure and compare serum levels of proinflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), and interleukin 6 (IL-6), between FS patients and controls.
- To explore potential correlations between miRNA expressions and clinical characteristics of FS.
Main Methods:
- Prospective multicenter study conducted in Turkey (June 2018 - July 2019).
- Inclusion of 60 children: 30 with FS and 30 febrile controls.
- Real-time PCR for miRNA expression analysis and ELISA for cytokine level quantification.
Main Results:
- Significantly higher expression of miRNA-146a was observed in children with FS compared to controls.
- Elevated serum levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 were found in the FS group.
- Correlations were identified among miRNA expressions in children with FS, but no differences were noted based on FS type or recurrence.
Conclusions:
- Specific miRNAs, notably miRNA-146a, and proinflammatory cytokines appear to be involved in the pathogenesis of febrile seizures.
- Altered miRNA expression may represent an adaptive response to inflammation in FS.
- Findings suggest potential for novel therapeutic strategies targeting miRNA pathways in pediatric FS.
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