MicroRNAs in Helminth Parasites: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Parasitology
• Molecular Biology
• Genomics

Background:

• MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, noncoding RNAs regulating gene expression post-transcriptionally.
• Helminth parasites possess unique gene repertoires, including stage-specific miRNAs involved in regulatory mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of miRNAs in parasite development and host-parasite interactions.
• To summarize findings on helminth parasite-derived microRNAs (miRNAs) in a systematic review.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of helminth miRNA studies published in English from February 1993 to December 2019.
• Searched major electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest, Embase, and Google Scholar.

Main Results:

• 105 studies were included, focusing on miRNA identification in helminths and host responses.
• 12 studies detected parasite miRNAs in host circulation, and 15 characterized parasite-derived extracellular vesicle (EV)-miRNAs.

Conclusions:

• Comprehensive information on helminth parasite miRNAs is provided.
• Discusses the utility of parasite-derived miRNAs for diagnosing and controlling parasitic infections.
• Presents functional studies on helminth-derived miRNAs.