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Free keywords:
OLIGODENDROCYTE DIFFERENTIATION; IN-VIVO; LESIONS; CELLS; SYSTEM; MIRNA;
IDENTIFICATION; MYELINATION; TARGETS; CD47
Abstract:
Several hundred microRNAs (miRNAs) fine-tune the expression of
approximately half of all human genes. Recent studies have revealed that
miRNA profiles in blood cells become altered in multiple sclerosis (MS),
and that active and inactive MS lesions have distinct miRNA expression
patterns. The dysregulated miRNAs in MS lesions seem to be associated
with astrocytes and infiltrating immune cells, and might unleash local
macrophages through downregulation of the self-recognition signal CD47.
The expression of miRNA-326 in blood cells has been reported to increase
during relapses. This miRNA promotes T helper 17 cell differentiation
and is highly abundant in active MS lesions. miRNAs are needed for
maintenance of the myelin sheath, and the absence of such molecules
results in axonal damage in mice. miRNA-219 and other miRNAs promote
oligodendrocyte differentiation. Here, we discuss the possible
contribution of miRNAs to MS pathogenesis. An improved understanding of
this contribution should help to identify novel therapeutic targets and
biomarkers for this disease.
