The Potential Association Between microRNA 135-5P and p62 and Their Effect on NRF2 Pathway in Multiple Sclerosis

Area of Science:

• Neuroimmunology
• Molecular Biology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a disabling neurological disease with complex pathogenesis.
• Nuclear factor erythroid 2-Related Factor 2 (NRF2) regulates antioxidant and anti-inflammatory responses.
• p62 acts as a scaffold protein influencing NRF2 activity and autophagy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between microRNA 135-5p and p62 in MS.
• To explore their impact on inflammation and oxidative stress via the NRF2 pathway in MS.

Main Methods:

• Serum samples from 60 MS patients and 30 healthy controls were analyzed.
• Real-time PCR was used to quantify Nrf2, p62, miRNA135-5P, and NF-κB.
• ELISA was employed to measure p53 levels.

Main Results:

• Nrf2 and p62 expression were significantly downregulated in MS patients.
• miRNA135-5P, NF-κB expression, and p53 levels were significantly elevated in MS patients.
• A potential link between miRNA 135-5p and p62 in MS pathogenesis was identified.

Conclusions:

• miRNA 135-5p and p62 may play a role in MS pathogenesis.
• These molecules might influence inflammation and oxidative stress through the NRF2 pathway.
• NF-κB and p53 may mediate the effects of miRNA 135-5p and p62 in MS.