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Virus-Induced MicroRNA Modulation and Systemic Sclerosis Disease.
Irene Soffritti1,2, Maria D'Accolti1,2, Francesca Bini1,2
1Section of Microbiology, Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
Biomedicines
|June 27, 2024
Summary
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) show altered expression in Systemic Sclerosis (SSc), potentially serving as disease markers. Viral infections like HCMV/HHV-6 may influence these miRNA changes, contributing to SSc development.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key post-transcriptional gene regulators involved in numerous physiological and pathological pathways.
- Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) is a complex autoimmune disease marked by vascular issues, immune dysfunction, and fibrosis.
- Environmental factors like oxidative stress, chemicals, and viral infections (HCMV, HHV-6) are implicated in SSc pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current data on miRNA alterations in SSc patients.
- To explore the diagnostic and prognostic potential of miRNAs in SSc.
- To investigate the impact of potential SSc etiological agents on miRNA profiles.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on miRNA expression in SSc.
- Analysis of research linking viral infections (HCMV, HHV-6) to miRNA modulation in SSc.
- Synthesis of findings on miRNA signatures in SSc patients versus controls.
Main Results:
- Dysregulated miRNA expression is observed in SSc patients, both intracellularly and extracellularly.
- Viral infections, particularly HCMV and HHV-6, can alter miRNA profiles, mimicking SSc patterns.
- These viral-induced miRNA changes may promote SSc-associated pathological pathways.
Conclusions:
- Altered miRNA profiles represent a potential signature for SSc disease.
- miRNAs hold promise as diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers for SSc.
- HCMV/HHV-6 infections may significantly impact miRNA modulation, contributing to SSc etiology.
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