Association of microRNA gene polymorphisms with recurrent spontaneous abortion: An updated metaanalysis

Xueqin Wang1, Yan Xing1, Yongyong Wang1

  • 1Department of Reproductive Medicine, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, P.R. China.

Insights

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in microRNAs (miRNAs) are linked to unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion (URSA). This meta-analysis confirms specific miRNA SNPs increase URSA risk, aiding in screening and prevention for high-risk women.

Area of Science:

  • Genetics
  • Reproductive Medicine
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) is a complex condition with various contributing factors.
  • Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in microRNAs (miRNAs) have been implicated in unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion (URSA).
  • Previous studies suggest associations, but an updated comprehensive analysis is needed.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To conduct an updated meta-analysis evaluating the association between miRNA SNPs and URSA.
  • To determine the pooled effect size of miRNA SNPs in relation to URSA risk.
  • To identify specific miRNA SNPs that may serve as biomarkers for URSA susceptibility.

Main Methods:

  • A systematic literature search was performed on PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library up to July 2022.
  • Eligible case-control studies were included, extracting data on miRNA SNPs and URSA.
  • Pooled odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated under five genetic models.

Main Results:

  • Eighteen studies with 3,850 cases and 4,312 controls were analyzed.
  • Specific miRNA SNPs, including miR499a rs3746444 A>G, miR-149 rs2292832 T>C, miR-125a rs41275794 G>A, and miR-10a rs3809783 A>T, were associated with increased URSA risk.
  • Other SNPs showed ethnic-specific associations or no significant overall link to RSA.

Conclusions:

  • Certain miRNA SNPs significantly enhance the risk of URSA.
  • This meta-analysis highlights the importance of miRNA SNPs in URSA susceptibility.
  • Testing miRNA SNPs could aid in screening and prevention strategies for URSA in high-risk populations.