Structural and Pharmacological Network Focused on MiRNAs Involved in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Immunology

Background:

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) affects over 1% of the global population, causing significant pain, joint deformity, and disability.
• MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are increasingly recognized for their potential as diagnostic and predictive biomarkers in various diseases.
• Understanding the role of miRNAs in RA pathogenesis is crucial for developing novel therapeutic strategies.

Approach:

• This systematic review analyzed existing literature on miRNAs implicated in Rheumatoid Arthritis.
• Bibliographic searches identified RA-related miRNAs, their target genes, and associated small molecules.
• Structural network analysis was employed to understand the interconnections between miRNAs, genes, and compounds.

Key Points:

• Network analysis highlighted specific miRNAs (e.g., miR-30a, miR-30c, let-7a) as highly connected and potential biomarkers for RA.
• These identified miRNAs interact with numerous genes, suggesting a complex regulatory network in RA.
• The study proposes that environmental toxicants and drugs, by regulating miRNA expression, may play a role in RA.

Conclusions:

• This is the first systematic review to utilize structural network analysis for identifying RA biomarkers through miRNA expression.
• The findings suggest that specific miRNAs and their interactions with small molecules offer new avenues for RA diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment.
• Investigating the influence of daily-use compounds on miRNA expression could reveal novel insights into RA etiology and management.