MicroRNA in osteoarthritis: physiopathology, diagnosis and therapeutic challenge

Abstract

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most orthopedic condition. The pattern of gene expression and the transcription factors that exert control of chondrogenesis have been extensively studied.

Sources of data: A systematic search (up to July 2018) of articles assessing the role of microRNA (miRNA) in physiopathology, diagnosis and therapy of OA was performed, with the purpose of giving a critical perspective of the possibilities for diagnostic and therapeutic use of miRNA in the management of OA.

Areas of agreement: miRNAs are small noncoding RNAs that can regulate gene expression in human cells. miRNAs can be expressed in a different fashion in osteoarthritic compared to nonosteoarthritic cartilage.

Areas of controversy: The mechanisms that produce alteration of gene expression in OA are still not completely understood. miRNAs may be involved in the diagnosis of OA as well as in its treatment.

Growing points: There are complex interactions between miRNAs and their multiple target genes. These interactions may be important in gene regulation and the control of homeostatic pathways in OA.

Areas timely for developing research: miRNA could be useful for diagnostic or management purposes, but the issue of delivery of miRNA targeting agents needs to be overcome before miRNA can be applied in clinical practice.

Keywords: miRNA; cartilage degeneration; gene regulation; miRNA-controlled delivery; osteoarthritis.