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The miR-181 family: Wide-ranging pathophysiological effects on cell fate and function
Austin Bell-Hensley1, Samarjit Das2, Audrey McAlinden3,4,5
1Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA.
Abstract:
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are epigenetic regulators that can target and inhibit translation of multiple mRNAs within a given cell type. As such, a number of different pathways and networks may be modulated as a result. In fact, miRNAs are known to regulate many cellular processes including differentiation, proliferation, inflammation, and metabolism. This review focuses on the miR-181 family and provides information from the published literature on the role of miR-181 homologs in regulating a range of activities in different cell types and tissues. Of note, we have not included details on miR-181 expression and function in the context of cancer since this is a broad topic area requiring independent review. Instead, we have focused on describing the function and mechanism of miR-181 family members on differentiation toward a number of cell lineages in various non-neoplastic conditions (e.g., immune/hematopoietic cells, osteoblasts, osteoclasts, chondrocytes, adipocytes). We have also provided information on how modulation of miR-181 homologs can have positive effects on disease states such as cardiac abnormalities, pulmonary arterial hypertension, thrombosis, osteoarthritis, and vascular inflammation. In this context, we have used some examples of FDA-approved drugs that modulate miR-181 expression. We conclude by discussing some common mechanisms by which miR-181 homologs appear to regulate a number of different cellular processes and how targeting specific miR-181 family members may lead to attractive therapeutic approaches to treat a number of human disease or repair conditions, including those associated with the aging process.
Insights
The miR-181 family, a group of microRNAs (miRNAs), regulates cell differentiation and various non-cancerous conditions. Targeting these miRNAs shows therapeutic potential for diseases and aging.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Epigenetics
- Biochemistry
Background:
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are epigenetic regulators controlling gene expression by inhibiting mRNA translation.
- miRNAs influence critical cellular processes like differentiation, proliferation, inflammation, and metabolism.
- The miR-181 family is a key regulator in various cell types and tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of the miR-181 family in cellular differentiation and non-neoplastic conditions.
- To explore the therapeutic potential of modulating miR-181 homologs in disease treatment.
- To discuss common mechanisms of miR-181 action and their implications for human health.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of published studies on miR-181 family function.
- Analysis of miR-181 roles in differentiation of immune cells, bone cells, and fat cells.
- Examination of miR-181 involvement in cardiovascular, pulmonary, and inflammatory diseases.
Main Results:
- miR-181 homologs regulate differentiation in multiple cell lineages, including hematopoietic cells, osteoblasts, osteoclasts, chondrocytes, and adipocytes.
- Modulation of miR-181 has shown positive effects in conditions like cardiac abnormalities, pulmonary arterial hypertension, thrombosis, osteoarthritis, and vascular inflammation.
- Examples of FDA-approved drugs targeting miR-181 expression were discussed.
Conclusions:
- The miR-181 family plays a significant role in diverse cellular processes and tissue homeostasis.
- Targeting specific miR-181 family members offers promising therapeutic strategies for various human diseases and age-related conditions.
- Understanding miR-181 mechanisms can lead to novel treatments for repair and regeneration.
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