Plasma circulating microRNAs associated with blood-based immune markers: a population-based study

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Immunology
• Genetics

Background:

• MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of gene expression, influencing immune cell development and function.
• Understanding miRNA roles in immunity is crucial for elucidating immune system regulation and disease pathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between circulating miRNAs and blood cell compositions.
• To identify miRNAs linked to immune markers such as neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR).

Main Methods:

• RNA-sequencing of 2083 circulating miRNAs in plasma from 1999 participants.
• Multivariate analyses correlating miRNA levels with full blood count parameters and immune-inflammatory indices.
• Evaluation of overlap between miRNA target genes and genes involved in immune response.

Main Results:

• Plasma miRNA levels significantly associated with red blood cell, granulocyte, and lymphocyte counts.
• 210 miRNAs significantly associated with NLR, PLR, and systemic immune-inflammation index.
• Target genes of seven specific miRNAs (e.g., miR-150-5p) previously linked to NLR and PLR.

Conclusions:

• Identified circulating miRNAs that regulate innate and adaptive immune systems.
• Provides insights into miRNA pathogenesis in immune-related diseases.
• Suggests potential for circulating miRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in immune disorders.