MicroRNAs in the pathogenesis of cystic kidney disease.

Abstract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW:

Cystic kidney diseases are common renal disorders characterized by the formation of fluid-filled epithelial cysts in the kidneys. The progressive growth and expansion of the renal cysts replace existing renal tissue within the renal parenchyma, leading to reduced renal function. While several genes have been identified in association with inherited causes of cystic kidney disease, the molecular mechanisms that regulate these genes in the context of post-transcriptional regulation are still poorly understood. There is increasing evidence that microRNA (miRNA) dysregulation is associated with the pathogenesis of cystic kidney disease.

RECENT FINDINGS:

In this review, recent studies that implicate dysregulation of miRNA expression in cystogenesis will be discussed. The relationship of specific miRNAs, such as the miR-17∼92 cluster and cystic kidney disease, miR-92a and von Hippel-Lindau syndrome, and alterations in LIN28-LET7 expression in Wilms tumor will be explored.

SUMMARY:

At present, there are no specific treatments available for patients with cystic kidney disease. Understanding and identifying specific miRNAs involved in the pathogenesis of these disorders may have the potential to lead to the development of novel therapies and biomarkers.

• Authors: Yu Leng Phua, Jacqueline Ho
• Journal: Current opinion in pediatrics (Curr Opin Pediatr) Vol. 27 Issue 2 Pg. 219-26 (Apr 2015) ISSN: 1531-698X [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 25490692 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Review)

Chemical References

• Biomarkers
• MicroRNAs

Topics

• Biomarkers (metabolism)
• Humans
• Kidney (pathology)
• Kidney Neoplasms (genetics, pathology, physiopathology)
• MicroRNAs (metabolism, physiology)
• Polycystic Kidney Diseases (genetics, pathology, physiopathology)
• Wilms Tumor (genetics, pathology)
• von Hippel-Lindau Disease (genetics, pathology, physiopathology)