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Updated: Aug 2, 2025

MicroRNA In situ Hybridization for Formalin Fixed Kidney Tissues
Published on: November 30, 2013
Role of microRNAs in programmed cell death in renal diseases: A review
Yan Zhang1,2, Xinghua Lv1, Feng Chen2
1Department of Anesthesiology, First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China.
Abstract:
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression involving kidney morphogenesis and cell proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation, migration, invasion, immune evasion, and extracellular matrix remodeling. Programmed cell death (PCD) is mediated and regulated by specific genes and a wealth of miRNAs, which participate in various pathological processes. Dysregulation of miRNAs can disrupt renal development and induce the onset and progression of various renal diseases. An in-depth understanding of how miRNAs regulate renal development and diseases is indispensable to comprehending how they can be used in new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. However, the mechanisms are still insufficiently investigated. Hence, we review the current roles of miRNA-related signaling pathways and recent advances in PCD research and aim to display the potential crosstalk between miRNAs and PCD. The prospects of miRNAs as novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets are also described, which might provide some novel ideas for further studies.
Insights
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate kidney development and disease. This review explores miRNA roles in programmed cell death (PCD) and their potential as kidney disease biomarkers and therapeutics.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Nephrology
Background:
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of gene expression, influencing critical cellular processes such as kidney development, cell proliferation, apoptosis, and extracellular matrix remodeling.
- Programmed cell death (PCD) is a fundamental biological process regulated by specific genes and miRNAs, playing a significant role in various pathological conditions.
- Dysregulation of miRNA activity can impair renal development and contribute to the initiation and progression of diverse kidney diseases.
Approach:
- This review synthesizes current knowledge on miRNA-mediated signaling pathways involved in renal development and disease.
- It examines recent advancements in programmed cell death (PCD) research.
- The review aims to elucidate the potential crosstalk between miRNAs and PCD mechanisms in the context of kidney function and pathology.
Key Points:
- miRNAs are crucial in regulating kidney morphogenesis, cell fate, and extracellular matrix dynamics.
- miRNAs are intricately involved in the regulation and execution of programmed cell death (PCD).
- The dysregulation of miRNAs is implicated in the pathogenesis of various renal diseases.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the intricate roles of miRNAs in renal development and disease, particularly their interplay with PCD, is essential for developing novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
- miRNAs show significant promise as potential biomarkers for early detection and as therapeutic targets for managing kidney diseases.
- Further investigation into miRNA-PCD crosstalk is warranted to fully harness their clinical potential in nephrology.
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