Objectives
To identify the specific microRNAs (miRNAs) in IgG4-related dacryoadenitis and sialadenitis (IgG4-DS) and predict the targeted genes.
Methods
MiRNAs in the serum of 9 patients with IgG4-DS, 3 patients with primary Sjögren’s syndrome, and 3 healthy controls were analyzed using the human miRNA chip, and miRNAs that exhibited significant fluctuation in expression in IgG4-DS patients were extracted. The respective target genes were predicted using an existing database, and expression of the target genes was evaluated in actual submandibular gland tissues affected by IgG4-DS.
Results
Serum miR-125a-3p and miR-125b-1-3p levels were elevated in IgG4-DS. Six candidate target genes (glypican 4; forkhead box C1; protein tyrosine phosphatase non-receptor type 3; hydroxycarboxylic acid receptor 1; major facilitator superfamily domain containing 11; and tumor-associated calcium signal transducer 2) were downregulated in the affected submandibular gland tissue.
Conclusion
Overexpression of miR-125a-3p and miR-125b-1-3p is a hallmark of IgG4-DS. These microRNAs appear to be involved in the pathogenesis of IgG4-DS.