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MicroRNAs: master regulators in host-parasitic protist interactions.

Maura Rojas-Pirela1,2,3, Diego Andrade-Alviárez4, Lisvaneth Medina1

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MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small RNAs regulating gene expression. Their dysregulation is linked to parasitic infections, and they show potential as drug targets and disease markers.

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apicomplexandiagnostic and therapeutic toolshost–parasite interactionskinetoplastidsmicrorna

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Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics
  • Parasitology

Background:

  • MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally.
  • They control crucial biological processes like cell death, proliferation, and differentiation.
  • Dysregulation of miRNA biogenesis and function is implicated in disease pathogenesis, including parasitic infections.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of diseases caused by parasitic protists.
  • To discuss the potential of miRNAs as therapeutic targets and diagnostic/prognostic markers for parasitic diseases.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on microRNAs and parasitic protists.
  • Analysis of existing research on miRNA involvement in host-parasite interactions.
  • Exploration of therapeutic and diagnostic potential of miRNAs.

Main Results:

  • miRNAs play a significant role in host-parasite interactions.
  • Parasite and host miRNAs influence infection probability and disease progression.
  • miRNAs are implicated in the pathogenesis of various parasitic diseases.

Conclusions:

  • MicroRNAs are key players in the pathogenesis of parasitic diseases.
  • miRNAs hold promise as novel targets for drug development.
  • miRNAs can serve as valuable diagnostic and prognostic markers for parasitic infections.