Circular RNA ciRS-7 signature as a potential biomarker for the early detection of diabetes with Alzheimer's disease: a hypothesis

Mol Biol Rep. 2023 Oct;50(10):8705-8714. doi: 10.1007/s11033-023-08729-2. Epub 2023 Aug 24.

Abstract

In the 1970s, Circular RNAs (CircRNAs) were first discovered in RNA viruses as viroids and were initially assumed to be RNA splicing defects. The roles and topologies of these circular RNA loops were later revealed using computer analysis and RNA-sequencing. They were found to demonstrate various functions, including protein scaffolding, parental gene regulation, microRNA sponges, and RNA-protein interactions. CircRNAs play a crucial role in controlling gene expression and are essential for biological development and illness detection, as demonstrated by their roles as miRNA sponges, endogenous RNAs, and potential biomarkers. Insulin resistance is caused by damage to β-cells in the pancreatic islets, which reduces the body's response to the hormone insulin. This reduction in insulin response hinders glucose from entering cells and providing energy for critical processes. As a result, insulin-resistant cells elevate blood sugar levels, leading to diabetes. Diabetes, in turn, increases the risk of heart disease and stroke, which can damage the heart and arteries. Additionally, an excess of insulin can impact the brain's chemical balance, contributing to the development of Alzheimer's disease. Furthermore, oxidative stress created by damaged pancreatic cells during high blood sugar conditions may lead to the destruction of brain cells and the onset of Alzheimer's disease. The hypothesis of this review is to provide an overview of the most dominant ciRS-7 circRNA identified in pancreatic islet cell dysfunction and neurologic disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease. By considering ciRS-7 circRNA as a potential biomarker for diabetes, early detection and treatment of diabetes may be facilitated, potentially reducing the risk of Alzheimer's disease onset in the future.

Keywords: Alzheimer disease; Biomarker; CiRS-7; Circular RNA; Diabetes.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Alzheimer Disease* / diagnosis
  • Alzheimer Disease* / genetics
  • Alzheimer Disease* / metabolism
  • Biomarkers
  • Blood Glucose
  • Diabetes Mellitus* / diagnosis
  • Diabetes Mellitus* / genetics
  • Humans
  • Insulins*
  • MicroRNAs* / genetics
  • RNA / genetics
  • RNA, Circular / genetics

Substances

  • RNA, Circular
  • Blood Glucose
  • RNA
  • MicroRNAs
  • Biomarkers
  • Insulins