MicroRNA Involvement in Multiple Sclerosis Pathogenesis

MicroRNAs are short non-coding RNA molecules that fine-tune gene expression in immune and neural cells. In multiple sclerosis, dysregulated microRNA networks contribute to the imbalance between pro-inflammatory and regulatory T cell subsets, alter cytokine production and compromise blood–brain barrier integrity. Within lesions, changes in microRNA expression influence oligodendrocyte maturation and remyelination capacity, while in peripheral blood distinct microRNA signatures reflect disease activity and predict progression. As stable and readily detectable biomarkers, microRNAs have emerged as tools for early diagnosis, prognosis and monitoring of therapeutic response. Moreover, targeting aberrant microRNA pathways through mimics, inhibitors or exosome-mediated delivery holds promise for restoring immune homeostasis, promoting repair and limiting neurodegeneration.

Research from Nature Portfolio

No recent Nature Portfolio content available.

MicroRNA Involvement in Multiple Sclerosis Pathogenesis publication trend

The graph below shows the total number of articles in microrna involvement in multiple sclerosis pathogenesis across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).

Technical terms

MicroRNA (miRNA): Small non-coding RNA molecules (~22 nucleotides) that regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally by binding target mRNAs, leading to their degradation or translational inhibition.

Blood–brain barrier (BBB): A specialised network of endothelial cells with tight junctions and supporting glial cells that controls molecular and cellular traffic between the circulation and the central nervous system.

Exosome: Nano-sized, membrane-bound extracellular vesicles released by cells, carrying proteins, lipids and nucleic acids (including miRNAs) to mediate intercellular communication and modulate recipient cell function.

References

1. Early miR-320b and miR-25-3p miRNA levels correlate with multiple sclerosis severity at 10 years: a cohort study. Journal of Neuroinflammation (2023).
2. The role of microRNAs involved in the disorder of blood–brain barrier in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis. Frontiers in Immunology (2023).
3. Multiple Sclerosis: Roles of miRNA, lcnRNA, and circRNA and Their Implications in Cellular Pathways. International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2024).
4. Stem Cell-Derived Exosomal MicroRNAs as Novel Potential Approach for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment. Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology (2024).
5. Circulating cell-free microRNA as biomarkers for screening, diagnosis and monitoring of neurodegenerative diseases and other neurologic pathologies. Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience (2013).