Exploring miRNAs in Leishmania infection: from immune modulation to theranostic potential

Leishmaniasis is a complex parasitic disease marked by intricate interactions between Leishmania parasites and host immune responses. Recent evidence has shown the importance of microRNAs (miRNAs), small non-coding RNAs, in the modulation of immunopathogenesis of leishmaniasis. This review synthesizes current understanding of miRNA biogenesis and their dynamic regulation during Leishmania infection. We detailed the mechanisms by which host-derived miRNAs modulate key signaling pathways, cytokine expression, and immune cell functions, thereby influencing disease progression and resolution. Notably, distinct miRNA expression profiles have been identified in infected hosts, correlating with parasite burden and clinical manifestations. Bioinformatic and experimental analyses highlighted various miRNA-mRNA interactions enriched in pathways such as TGF-β, JAK-STAT, MAPK, and NF-κB signaling, as well as antigen processing and presentation. Furthermore, the potential of miRNAs as diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic biomarkers in leishmaniasis is discussed. Taken together, this review discusses recent findings on the multifaceted roles of miRNAs in host-Leishmania interplay and highlights their promise as potential targets for innovative theranostic strategies.