Expression Analysis of Selected miRNAs in COVID-19 Patients

Modulations in microRNA (miRNA) expression can contribute to disease pathogenesis and biological processes by regulating target proteins. We aimed to compare serum miRNA levels (miR-19a-3p, miR-19b-3p, miR-21, miR-26a-5p, miR-146a, let-7b-3p, miR-155, miR-16, miR-590, miR-1307-3p) between COVID-19 patients and healthy controls to investigate their clinical significance and contribution to disease pathogenesis. Blood samples were obtained from 70 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 and from 30 healthy individuals as a control group for comparison. The patients were stratified into three categories based on disease severity: mild, moderate, and severe. miRNA expression levels were quantified via real-time PCR, with relative quantification performed using the Livak ΔΔCT method by calculating the 2^(-ΔΔCT) fold change values. In patients with COVID-19, the expression levels of miR-1307-3p, miR-146, miR-26a-5p, miR-21, miR-19b-3p, and let-7b-3p demonstrated statistically significant differences (p < 0.05). A non-significant downward trend of miR-16 was observed, with miRNA expression profiles exhibiting variability across the different patient groups. Considering host-virus interactions, we posit that miRNAs hold significant potential both as novel therapeutic targets and as pivotal regulators in deciphering the intricate pathogenesis of COVID-19. Comprehensive elucidation of disease pathogenesis requires the synergistic integration of in vivo and in vitro experimental approaches in conjunction with rigorous clinical investigations.