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Published on: September 11, 2020
Expression of MicroRNAs in Sepsis-Related Organ Dysfunction: A Systematic Review
Aniello Maiese1, Andrea Scatena1, Andrea Costantino1
1Department of Surgical Pathology, Medical, Molecular and Critical Area, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
Abstract:
Sepsis is a critical condition characterized by increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and proliferating cells such as neutrophils and macrophages in response to microbial pathogens. Such processes lead to an abnormal inflammatory response and multi-organ failure. MicroRNAs (miRNA) are single-stranded non-coding RNAs with the function of gene regulation. This means that miRNAs are involved in multiple intracellular pathways and thus contribute to or inhibit inflammation. As a result, their variable expression in different tissues and organs may play a key role in regulating the pathophysiological events of sepsis. Thanks to this property, miRNAs may serve as potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in such life-threatening events. In this narrative review, we collect the results of recent studies on the expression of miRNAs in heart, blood, lung, liver, brain, and kidney during sepsis and the molecular processes in which they are involved. In reviewing the literature, we find at least 122 miRNAs and signaling pathways involved in sepsis-related organ dysfunction. This may help clinicians to detect, prevent, and treat sepsis-related organ failures early, although further studies are needed to deepen the knowledge of their potential contribution.
Insights
MicroRNAs (miRNA) are key regulators in sepsis, influencing inflammation and organ function. Studying miRNA expression offers potential for early sepsis diagnosis and treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Immunology
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Sepsis is a life-threatening condition driven by an overactive inflammatory response to pathogens.
- This response involves pro-inflammatory cytokines and immune cells, potentially leading to multi-organ failure.
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression and are implicated in various cellular pathways.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent studies on miRNA expression in various organs during sepsis.
- To explore the role of miRNAs in the molecular processes underlying sepsis-related organ dysfunction.
- To assess the potential of miRNAs as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for sepsis.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review of existing literature on miRNA expression in sepsis.
- Analysis of studies focusing on miRNA involvement in heart, blood, lung, liver, brain, and kidney.
- Identification of signaling pathways regulated by miRNAs in sepsis.
Main Results:
- Identified at least 122 miRNAs and associated signaling pathways involved in sepsis.
- Demonstrated variable miRNA expression across different organs during sepsis.
- Highlighted the regulatory role of miRNAs in sepsis-induced inflammation and pathophysiology.
Conclusions:
- MicroRNAs play a significant role in regulating sepsis pathophysiology and organ-specific responses.
- miRNAs show promise as potential biomarkers for early detection, prevention, and treatment of sepsis.
- Further research is necessary to fully elucidate the contribution of miRNAs to sepsis management.
