MicroRNA profiling in complete and partial hydatidiform moles

W K Chia1, H X Y Yeoh1, M Mustangin1

  • 1Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

PubMed
Abstract

Insights

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) were identified as differentially expressed in complete (CM) and partial moles (PM). miR-518 was notably downregulated in CM, suggesting its potential role as a biomarker for hydatidiform mole progression.

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive biology
  • Molecular genetics
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Hydatidiform mole, a gestational trophoblastic disease, includes complete (CM) and partial moles (PM).
  • These conditions carry risks of developing persistent disease, invasive mole, or choriocarcinoma.
  • The role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in molar pregnancy pathogenesis and as biomarkers remains largely uncertain.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify differentially expressed miRNAs in complete moles (CM) and partial moles (PM).
  • To investigate the potential role of these miRNAs in the pathogenesis of hydatidiform moles (HMs).
  • To explore the utility of miRNAs as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for HMs.

Main Methods:

  • Next-generation sequencing was employed to profile miRNAs in CM (n=3), PM (n=3), and non-molar abortus placentas (n=3) as controls.
  • Differential expression analysis was performed between the groups.
  • Bioinformatics tools (miRDB, Targetscan) were used to predict target genes of differentially expressed miRNAs.

Main Results:

  • Ten differentially expressed miRNAs were identified between CMs, PMs, and normal molar tissues (NMAs).
  • Specific miRNAs, including miR-518a-5p, miR-423-3p, miR-503-5p, miR-302a-3p, and miR-1323, were identified.
  • Three differentially expressed miRNAs in CMs were predicted to target ZTBT46 and FAM73B mRNAs.

Conclusions:

  • miR-518 was consistently downregulated in CM compared to both PM and NMA.
  • Further bioinformatic analysis is required to elucidate the role of these miRNAs in HM pathogenesis and disease progression.
  • These miRNAs show potential as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for hydatidiform moles.