The role of microRNAs in endometriosis and associated reproductive conditions

Edward Teague, E Maria C Ohlsson Teague, Teague EM, Cristin G. Print, M. Louise Hull
Human Reproduction Update · 2009 · vol. 16(2) , pp. 142–165 · doi:10.1093/humupd/dmp034 · PMID:19773286 · W2142510444
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This systematic review examines differentially expressed microRNAs and their mRNA targets in endometriosis, highlighting their potential roles in lesion development, malignant progression, and subfertility.

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Abstract

BACKGROUND: microRNAs (miRNAs) are short, single-stranded RNAs that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. Recent research has shown that miRNAs and their target mRNAs are differentially expressed in endometriosis and other disorders of the female reproductive system. Since miRNAs control a broad spectrum of normal and pathological cellular functions, they may play pivotal roles in the pathogenesis of these disorders. METHODS: A systematic review was undertaken of the published literature on; (i) the expression and functions of miRNAs in mammalian female reproductive tissues with a focus on endometriosis and the malignancies and fertility disorders related to this disease; and (ii) the potential roles played by validated mRNA targets of endometriosis-associated miRNAs. The current understanding of the biology of miRNAs is overviewed and the potential diagnostic and therapeutic potential of miRNAs in endometriosis is highlighted. RESULTS: The differential expression of miRNAs in endometriosis, and the putative molecular pathways constituted by their targets, suggests that miRNAs may play an important role in endometriotic lesion development. Models for miRNA regulatory functions in endometriosis are presented, including those associated with hypoxia, inflammation, tissue repair, TGFbeta-regulated pathways, cell growth, cell proliferation, apoptosis, extracellular matrix remodelling and angiogenesis. In addition, specific miRNAs which may be associated with malignant progression and subfertility in endometriosis are discussed. CONCLUSIONS: miRNAs appear to be potent regulators of gene expression in endometriosis and its associated reproductive disorders, raising the prospect of using miRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic tools in endometriosis.

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Condition tags

endometriosis

MeSH descriptors

Endometriosis Genital Neoplasms, Female Infertility, Female MicroRNAs Animals Cell Transformation, Neoplastic Cell Transformation, Neoplastic Embryo Implantation Embryo Implantation Embryonic Development Embryonic Development Endometriosis Endometriosis Endometriosis Female Genetic Markers Genital Neoplasms, Female Genital Neoplasms, Female Humans Infertility, Female

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License: CC0 · commercial use OK