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MicroRNA In situ Hybridization for Formalin Fixed Kidney Tissues
Published on: November 30, 2013
MicroRNAs in kidney fibrosis: A review from molecular insights to therapeutic frontiers
Abdul Fatah A Samad1, Ching-Feng Chiu2, Mohd Farizal Kamaroddin1
1Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, 81310, Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia.
Abstract:
Kidney fibrosis, characterized by excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, is a central driver of chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression and remains without effective antifibrotic therapies. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), as pivotal post-transcriptional regulators, orchestrate multiple fibrotic pathways and have emerged as promising therapeutic targets. This review synthesizes the current evidence on the dual roles of miRNAs in kidney fibrosis, highlighting both profibrotic and antifibrotic species and their interplay with long noncoding RNAs. We critically evaluated therapeutic strategies, including miRNA replacement, inhibition, and advanced modalities such as artificial miRNAs and biomarker applications. Despite encouraging preclinical data, clinical translation faces major hurdles, including instability, immune activation, off-target effects, and inefficient delivery. We further investigate innovative approaches to enhance therapeutic efficacy, such as combinatorial miRNA targeting and modulation of endogenous miRNA expression through functional foods and drugs. By integrating mechanistic insights with translational perspectives, this review delineates opportunities and challenges in harnessing miRNA-based interventions for kidney fibrosis and outlines future directions toward clinical implementation.
Insights
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play dual roles in kidney fibrosis, offering potential therapeutic targets for chronic kidney disease (CKD). Challenges remain in translating miRNA therapies into clinical practice.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Kidney fibrosis, marked by excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, drives chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression.
- Current antifibrotic therapies are limited, necessitating novel treatment strategies.
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of fibrotic pathways and potential therapeutic targets.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the dual roles of miRNAs (both pro- and anti-fibrotic) in kidney fibrosis.
- To evaluate current and emerging miRNA-based therapeutic strategies for kidney fibrosis.
- To identify challenges and opportunities for clinical translation of miRNA therapies.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of current literature on miRNAs in kidney fibrosis.
- Analysis of preclinical and clinical data on miRNA-based interventions.
- Evaluation of advanced therapeutic modalities and biomarker applications.
Main Results:
- miRNAs exhibit complex, dual roles in regulating kidney fibrosis.
- Various therapeutic strategies, including replacement, inhibition, and artificial miRNAs, show preclinical promise.
- Significant hurdles exist for clinical translation, including delivery, stability, and off-target effects.
Conclusions:
- miRNA-based interventions hold significant potential for treating kidney fibrosis.
- Overcoming challenges in delivery, stability, and specificity is crucial for clinical success.
- Future research should focus on innovative approaches like combinatorial targeting and endogenous miRNA modulation.
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