Altered Expression of MiR-125a and Dysregulated Cytokines in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Unveiling Diagnostic and Prognostic Markers

Overview

Journal World J Exp Med

Publisher Baishideng Publishing Group

Specialty Biomedical Engineering

Date 2024 Jan 4

PMID 38173550

Authors

Tagreed Qassim Alsbihawi

Mojtaba Zare Ebrahimabad

Fakhri Sadat Seyedhosseini

Homa Davoodi

Nafiseh Abdolahi

Alireza Nazari

Saeed Mohammadi

Yaghoub Yazdani

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disorder impacting multiple organs, influenced by genetic factors, especially those related to the immune system. However, there is a need for new biomarkers in SLE. MicroRNA-125a (miR-125a) levels are decreased in T cells, B cells, and dendritic cells of SLE patients. MiR-125a plays a regulatory role in controlling the levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin 12 (IL-12), which are crucial pro-inflammatory cytokines in SLE pathogenesis.

Aim: To assess the levels of miR-125a, IL-12, and TNF-α in SLE patients' plasma, evaluating their diagnostic and prognostic value.

Methods: The study included 100 healthy individuals, 50 newly diagnosed (ND), and 50 SLE patients undergoing treatment. The patients were monitored for a duration of 24 wk to observe and record instances of relapses. MiR-125a expression was measured using real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, while ELISA kits were used to assess IL-12 and TNF-α production.

Results: The results showed significantly reduced miR-125a expression in SLE patients compared to healthy individuals, with the lowest levels in ND patients. TNF-α and IL-12 expression levels were significantly elevated in SLE patients, especially in the early stages of the disease. Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses, and Cox-Mantel Log-rank tests indicated miR-125a, TNF-α, and IL-12 as proper diagnostic biomarkers for SLE. A negative correlation was found between plasma miR-125a expression and IL-12/TNF-α levels in SLE patients.

Conclusion: Decreased miR-125a levels may be involved in the development of SLE, while elevated levels of IL-12 and TNF-α contribute to immune dysregulation. These findings offer new diagnostic and prognostic markers for SLE. Moreover, the negative correlation observed suggests an interaction between miR-125a, TNF-α, and IL-12. Further research is necessary to uncover the underlying mechanisms that govern these relationships.

Citing Articles

Genetic and epigenetic factors shape phenotypes and outcomes in systemic lupus erythematosus - focus on juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus.

Charras A, Hiraki L, Lewandowski L, Hedrich C Curr Opin Rheumatol. 2024; 37(2):149-163.

PMID: 39660463 PMC: 11789615. DOI: 10.1097/BOR.0000000000001072.

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