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Published on: July 8, 2020
Recent Advances in miRNA Biomarkers for Diagnosis and Prognosis of Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis
Yufei Sun1, Shuang Liu1, Wan Ding1
1Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
Background:
Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is an increasingly prevalent group of refractory glomerular diseases and a significant aetiology of end-stage renal disease. Podocyte injury and depletion significantly contribute to the pathogenesis and progression of FSGS. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are noncoding RNAs that regulate the expression of specific genes in relevant cells, thereby playing crucial roles in the pathogenesis of FSGS. Many studies have shown that miRNAs can be secreted from cells into body fluids and that these miRNAs in the circulation are highly stable. The gold standard for FSGS diagnosis is kidney biopsy; however, the clinical heterogeneity of FSGS, along with variations in histology and nonspecific morphological features, can impact its diagnostic accuracy. Thus, the discovery of novel and efficacious biomarkers is crucial in facilitating the diagnosis of FSGS. In addition, the degree of kidney damage in patients with FSGS varies at different stages, necessitating individualized diagnosis and treatment approaches. Considering the side effects of glucocorticoids, determining whether a patient is steroid resistant is vital. Thus, ideal biomarkers should not only be specific and sensitive but also have the ability to accurately reflect the stage or prognosis of the disease to improve the treatment for patients.
Summary:
To date, numerous studies have shown that both urinary miRNAs and plasma miRNAs are potential biomarkers for FSGS. In addition, the identification of miRNA biomarkers specific for the FSGS disease state may provide new insights into the underlying pathological mechanism of FSGS.
Key Messages:
Here we summarize the currently available miRNA biomarkers that could help us better understand the diagnosis, disease activity, prognosis, and clinical features of FSGS.
Insights
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) show promise as biomarkers for focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), aiding in diagnosis and prognosis. These circulating molecules offer a less invasive approach to understanding this kidney disease.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Molecular Biology
- Biomarker Discovery
Background:
- Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is a leading cause of end-stage renal disease, characterized by podocyte injury.
- Current diagnostic methods like kidney biopsy have limitations in accuracy due to clinical and histological heterogeneity.
- There is a critical need for novel biomarkers to accurately diagnose FSGS and guide individualized treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review microRNA (miRNA) biomarkers for focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS).
- To explore the role of miRNAs in FSGS diagnosis, disease activity, and prognosis.
- To highlight the potential of circulating miRNAs as non-invasive diagnostic tools.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating miRNA biomarkers in FSGS.
- Analysis of urinary and plasma miRNA profiles in FSGS patients.
- Synthesis of current evidence on miRNA's diagnostic and prognostic value.
Main Results:
- Urinary and plasma miRNAs are identified as potential biomarkers for FSGS.
- miRNA signatures may offer insights into FSGS pathogenesis and disease state.
- Specific miRNAs could reflect disease activity, stage, and steroid resistance.
Conclusions:
- miRNAs represent promising, stable biomarkers detectable in body fluids for FSGS.
- miRNA profiling can enhance diagnostic accuracy and aid in predicting FSGS prognosis.
- Further research into miRNA biomarkers is crucial for improving FSGS patient management and treatment strategies.
