MicroRNAs as Biomarkers of Diabetic Nephropathy

Abstract

Over the course of the past decade, miRNAs (microRNA) have established themselves as important players in many aspects of biology, not least of all in disease pathology. Indeed, microRNA (miRNA) dysregulation has been demonstrated in numerous diseases and in almost all tissues with a number of them displaying promise as therapeutic targets. In recent years, the presence of miRNA in various biofluids, including blood and urine, has been well documented. Importantly, there have been a number of studies demonstrating that miRNA profiles in these biofluids undergo distinct shifts in both the levels of particular miRNA species and also which specific miRNA is present. This has sparked interest in their potential as noninvasive biomarkers for disease. Interestingly, the vast majority of these miRNAs have no current known role in their respective diseases. Furthermore, recent discoveries of exosome-bound miRNA being excreted from cells into both the urine and blood have sparked further interest in the field. Here, we review the current literature regarding clinical investigation of miRNAs as diagnostic and prognostic markers for diabetic nephropathy. Specifically, we discuss those studies utilizing miRNA profiles in blood, urine, and also exosomes, their importance to the field miRNA biomarker research, and any potential issues arising from these studies.