MicroRNA-146a expression and serum interleukin-17 level as potential biomarkers for rheumatoid arthritis

Abstract

Small non-coding RNAs are microRNAs (miRNAs) that can play a role in controlling various immune functions. MicroRNA- 146a (miRNA-146a) is regarded as an essential element in posttranscriptional gene expression regulator, indicating a possible function in autoimmune diseases. Aim: The aim of the research was to evaluate the expression of miR-146a and Interleukin- 17 serum levels as potential markers for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) diagnosis and to investigate its association with the activity of the disease. Methods: This research comprised 60 subjects divided into 30 RA patients and 30 healthy individuals. The rate of erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), anti-cyclic-citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies rheumatoid factor (RF), Creactive protein (CRP) and serum IL-17 level were estimated. Using reverse transcriptase real time polymerase chain reaction quantitative, the relative quantification of miR-146a expression was determined. Results: There are highly pronounced statistical variations was observed between patients and healthy controls, with relative expression of miR-146a, (ESR), CRP, IL-17 and (anti-CC). There are also extremely important statistical differences (p < 0.001) between the various patient subgroups with respect to miR-146a relative expression. IL-17 level in the RA group was higher than in the control group. Positive associations were noticed between the levels of IL-17, ESR, CRP, (anti-CCP) and miR-146a. Conclusion: This study showed that even the expression of miR-146a was highly significant in RA patients, the level of expression was associated with the activity of the disease. Also, the increase in serum IL-17 in patients with RA compared with healthy controls played an important role in the diagnosis of the inflammatory and destructive characteristics of RA.