The Therapeutic Potential of MicroRNA-21 in the Treatment of Spinal Cord Injury

Spinal cord injury (SCI) involves complex pathological processes that often result in significant and long-term neurological deficits. Increasingly, research has identified microRNA-21 (miR-21) as a pivotal regulator in SCI, with studies focusing on its roles in inflammation, apoptosis, and tissue repair. This review synthesizes current findings on miR-21's involvement in post-injury molecular events, emphasizing its interactions with regulatory targets such as Phosphatase and Tensin Homolog (PTEN) and Programmed Cell Death Protein 4 (PDCD4), as well as its broader effects on inflammatory and apoptotic signaling pathways. Evidence from both in vitro and in vivo studies suggests that modulating miR-21 influences lesion size, cellular dynamics, and functional recovery, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target for SCI. Nonetheless, the clinical translation of miR-21-based therapies poses significant challenges, including the need to optimize dosages, delivery mechanisms, and long-term safety profiles. Further research is crucial to fully delineate miR-21's therapeutic potential and determine its feasibility for integration into SCI treatment protocols. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of miR-21's roles in SCI pathology, offering insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying recovery and the emerging potential of miR-21 in SCI management to enhance outcomes and quality of life for affected patients.