An extensive overview on MicroRNAs and pandemic-prone viral diseases: The next frontier in predicting and mitigating...

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression and play important roles in host-virus interactions. Increasing evidence indicates that viral infections can alter host miRNA expression profiles, influencing viral replication, immune responses, and disease severity. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on miRNA dysregulation in major pandemic-prone viral infections, including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV), SARS-CoV-2, (middle east respiratory syndrome coronavirus) MERS-CoV, and influenza viruses. We also discuss how specific miRNAs may function as antiviral or proviral regulators by targeting viral genomes or key host signaling pathways involved in immune responses and inflammation. Particular attention is given to the potential role of circulating miRNAs as diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers, as well as the emerging concept of miRNA-based therapeutics. While numerous studies report associations between altered miRNA expression and infection outcomes, most findings are derived from relatively small and heterogeneous cohorts and require further validation. Consequently, many proposed miRNA applications remain at an exploratory stage. Nevertheless, advances in high-throughput sequencing, integrative omics approaches, and functional validation studies are expected to improve our understanding of miRNA-mediated regulatory networks during viral infections. These developments may ultimately support the development of host-response biomarkers and therapeutic strategies that contribute to improved surveillance and preparedness for future viral outbreaks.