MicroRNAs as emerging biomarkers for chronic wound monitoring: Analytical methods for the point-of-care detection

Area of Science:

• Biomolecular diagnostics
• Wound healing research
• Point-of-care testing technologies

Background:

• Chronic wounds pose significant clinical challenges, characterized by delayed healing and high infection rates.
• MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of wound healing phases: inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling.
• Emerging molecular diagnostics highlight miRNAs as potential real-time wound status biomarkers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the diagnostic potential of microRNAs in chronic wound management.
• To focus on analytical strategies for point-of-care (POC) detection of wound-related miRNAs.
• To critically evaluate current technologies for their sensitivity, specificity, and usability in decentralized settings.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of microRNA biomarkers in chronic wound healing.
• Analysis of analytical techniques for miRNA detection, including paper-based assays and electrochemical methods.
• Assessment of technology integration and usability for point-of-care applications.

Main Results:

• MicroRNAs are validated regulators across all wound healing stages.
• Several analytical strategies show potential for sensitive and specific miRNA detection.
• Point-of-care technologies like lateral flow assays and electrochemical sensors are promising for decentralized wound monitoring.

Conclusions:

• MicroRNAs hold significant potential as diagnostic biomarkers for effective chronic wound management.
• Point-of-care detection methods are crucial for real-time monitoring and timely clinical intervention.
• Further development and validation of POC technologies are needed to enhance sensitivity, specificity, and usability in diverse healthcare settings.