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Circulating MicroRNAs as a Tool for Diagnosis of Liver Disease Progression in People Living with HIV-1
Miguel Angel Martinez1, Cristina Tural2, Sandra Franco1
1IrsiCaixa, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08916 Badalona, Spain.
Abstract:
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNAs that post-transcriptionally regulate gene expression by binding specific cell mRNA targets, preventing their translation. miRNAs are implicated in the regulation of important physiological and pathological pathways. Liver disease, including injury, fibrosis, metabolism dysregulation, and tumor development disrupts liver-associated miRNAs. In addition to their effect in the originating tissue, miRNAs can also circulate in body fluids. miRNA release is an important form of intercellular communication that plays a role in the physiological and pathological processes underlying multiple diseases. Circulating plasma levels of miRNAs have been identified as potential disease biomarkers. One of the main challenges clinics face is the lack of available noninvasive biomarkers for diagnosing and predicting the different stages of liver disease (e.g., nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis), particularly among individuals infected with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). Liver disease is a leading cause of death unrelated to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) among people living with HIV-1 (PLWH). Here, we review and discuss the utility of circulating miRNAs as biomarkers for early diagnosis, prognosis, and assessment of liver disease in PLWH. Remarkably, the identification of dysregulated miRNA expression may also identify targets for new therapeutics.
Insights
Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) show promise as noninvasive biomarkers for diagnosing and assessing liver disease in people with HIV-1. These tiny RNAs could lead to earlier detection and new therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Hepatology
Background:
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNAs regulating gene expression post-transcriptionally.
- Dysregulated miRNAs are involved in liver injury, fibrosis, metabolic disorders, and cancer.
- Circulating miRNAs in body fluids, like plasma, serve as potential biomarkers for various diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the utility of circulating miRNAs as biomarkers for liver disease in people living with HIV-1 (PLWH).
- To discuss their role in early diagnosis, prognosis, and assessment of liver disease stages.
- To explore potential therapeutic targets identified through miRNA dysregulation.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and discussion of existing studies on circulating miRNAs and liver disease in PLWH.
- Analysis of miRNA involvement in physiological and pathological liver processes.
- Evaluation of miRNA as noninvasive biomarkers for liver disease diagnosis and prognosis.
Main Results:
- Circulating miRNAs are implicated in intercellular communication and disease processes.
- Liver disease significantly impacts miRNA expression in PLWH.
- Plasma miRNA levels are emerging as valuable noninvasive biomarkers for liver conditions.
Conclusions:
- Circulating miRNAs hold significant potential for early diagnosis and prognosis of liver disease in PLWH.
- Identifying dysregulated miRNAs may reveal novel therapeutic strategies.
- Noninvasive biomarkers are crucial for managing liver disease in this population.
