MicroRNA and Their Potential Role in Conjunctival Disorders

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Molecular Biology
• Genetics

Background:

• MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNA molecules regulating gene expression post-transcriptionally.
• miRNAs are crucial in cellular processes including inflammation, differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis, relevant to ocular diseases.
• Conjunctival diseases are increasingly investigated for miRNA involvement due to easier accessibility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and understand the role of miRNAs in various conjunctival diseases.
• To highlight miRNAs as mediators in conjunctival pathological conditions.
• To explore the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of miRNAs in ophthalmology.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review of literature was conducted.
• Searches were performed in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases.
• Included original articles from the last 10 years, using human and animal models.

Main Results:

• 27 studies met the inclusion criteria, indicating a strong correlation between miRNAs and conjunctival pathologies.
• miRNAs regulate key physiological processes like cell differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis, development, and inflammation.
• Pterygium showed the most miRNA research, while allergic conjunctivitis research is nascent.

Conclusions:

• miRNAs play significant roles in various conjunctival diseases by regulating signaling pathways and genes.
• miRNAs show promise as noninvasive biomarkers for diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy in conjunctival pathologies.
• Extensive studies are required to validate miRNAs as reliable biomarkers and for targeted therapy in conjunctival diseases.