MicroRNAs-mediated regulation pathways in rheumatic diseases

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Molecular Biology
• Epigenetics

Background:

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and ankylosing spondylitis (AS) are inflammatory joint diseases with distinct bone manifestations (osteodestructive vs. osteoproliferative).
• Rheumatic disorders affect joints, bones, muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
• Epigenetic factors, particularly microRNAs (miRNAs), are increasingly recognized for their role in rheumatic disease pathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the critical role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in modulating bone homeostasis and joint remodeling in rheumatic diseases.
• To provide an overview of the signaling pathways regulated by miRNAs in fibroblast-like synoviocytes, chondrocytes, and osteocytes relevant to rheumatic conditions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating microRNAs in rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.
• Analysis of miRNA dysregulation in rheumatic diseases.
• Identification of key molecular pathways influenced by miRNAs in relevant cell types.

Main Results:

• Numerous miRNAs (e.g., miR-10a, miR-146a, miR-221) are dysregulated in rheumatic diseases.
• MiRNAs critically control fibroblast-like synoviocytes, chondrocytes, and osteocytes, influencing bone homeostasis and joint remodeling.
• Key signaling pathways regulated by miRNAs include Wnt, BMP, NF-κB, RANK/RANKL, and M-CSF receptor pathways.

Conclusions:

• Dysregulated microRNAs are significant players in the pathogenesis of rheumatic diseases.
• Understanding miRNA-mediated signaling pathways is crucial for developing novel therapeutic strategies and biomarkers for RA and AS.
• MiRNAs represent promising targets for managing bone homeostasis and joint remodeling in rheumatic disorders.