MiR-146a Is Mutually Regulated by High Glucose-Induced Oxidative Stress in Human Periodontal Ligament Cells

Chihiro Fumimoto1, Nobuhiro Yamauchi1, Emika Minagawa1

  • 1Department of Periodontology, Osaka Dental University, 8-1, Kuzuhahanazono-cho, Hirakata 573-1121, Osaka, Japan.

Insights

High glucose in diabetes mellitus increases oxidative stress and inflammation in human periodontal ligament cells. This study reveals that miR-146a counteracts these effects, suggesting a mutual regulation between oxidative stress and miR-146a.

Area of Science:

  • Cell Biology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Diabetes mellitus (DM) induces high-glucose conditions, promoting cellular inflammation.
  • MicroRNA-146a (miR-146a) plays a role in inflammation and may interact with reactive oxygen species (ROS).
  • ROS are elevated under high-glucose conditions, contributing to cellular damage.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the impact of high glucose on miR-146a expression in human periodontal ligament cells (hPDLCs).
  • To explore the role of miR-146a in regulating oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokines under high-glucose conditions.
  • To determine the relationship between miR-146a and ROS in hPDLCs.

Main Methods:

  • Human periodontal ligament cells (hPDLCs) were exposed to high-glucose conditions (24 mM).
  • Expression levels of miR-146a, ROS, and inflammatory cytokines (IRAK1, TRAF6) were measured using Western blotting, PCR, and ELISA.
  • The effects of the antioxidant N-acetyl-L-cysteine and miR-146a overexpression were assessed.

Main Results:

  • High glucose did not affect hPDLC proliferation but increased inflammatory cytokine expression, ROS induction, IRAK1, and TRAF6.
  • miR-146a expression decreased under high-glucose conditions.
  • Antioxidant treatment restored miR-146a levels and reduced inflammation.
  • Overexpression of miR-146a suppressed IRAK1 and TRAF6 expression.

Conclusions:

  • Oxidative stress and miR-146a expression are mutually regulated in hPDLCs under high-glucose conditions.
  • miR-146a acts as a protective factor against high-glucose-induced oxidative stress and inflammation.
  • Targeting the miR-146a pathway may offer therapeutic strategies for diabetic complications affecting periodontal tissues.