miRNA Studies in Glaucoma: A Comprehensive Review of Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives

Abstract

Glaucoma, a neurodegenerative disorder that leads to irreversible blindness, remains a challenge because of its complex nature. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are crucial regulators of gene expression and are associated with glaucoma and other diseases. We aimed to review and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of miRNA-focused molecular studies in glaucoma through discussing their potential as biomarkers for early detection and diagnosis; offering insights into molecular pathways and mechanisms; and discussing their potential utility with respect to personalized medicine, their therapeutic potential, and non-invasive monitoring. Limitations, such as variability, small sample sizes, sample specificity, and limited accessibility to ocular tissues, are also addressed, underscoring the need for robust protocols and collaboration. Reproducibility and validation are crucial to establish the credibility of miRNA research findings, and the integration of bioinformatics tools for miRNA database creation is a valuable component of a comprehensive approach to investigate miRNA aberrations in patients with glaucoma. Overall, miRNA research in glaucoma has provided significant insights into the molecular mechanisms of the disease, offering potential biomarkers, diagnostic tools, and therapeutic targets. However, addressing challenges such as variability and limited tissue accessibility is essential, and further investigations and validation will contribute to a deeper understanding of the functional significance of miRNAs in glaucoma.

miR-210 is essential to retinal homeostasis in fruit flies and mice

“…In the latter, miR-210 expression was associated with visual field defects and average retinal nerve fiber layer thickness 60 . Nonetheless, considering the angiogenetic aspect of these diseases 19,61 , miR-210 was initially hypothesized to be involved primarily due to its established functions in hypoxia response and angiogenetic pathways. To explore the potential preservation of the impact of miR-210 deficiency on the retina from fruit flies to mammals, we conducted a morphological characterization of the miR-210 KO mice retina.…”

miR-6805-5p as a biomarker of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in patients with head and neck cancer

“…As the last consideration, the advantages and limitations of employing miRNAs as biomarkers deserve a brief discussion. First, the non-invasive attribute of miRNA analysis reduces patient discomfort and enables repeated sampling for long-term monitoring, allowing healthcare providers to make well-informed decisions on patient care ( Dobrzycka et al, 2023 ). Particularly when it comes to urine samples, it is also appropriate for both inpatients and outpatients.…”

Exploring Epigenetic Modifications as Potential Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets in Glaucoma

“…FTO (fat mass and obesity-associated protein) and ALKBH5 (AlkB homolog 5, RNA demethylase) remove the methylase. The reader proteins identify methylated RNA [ 69 ].…”