The coordinated action of various cell types, achieved by precise control of gene expression is required to ensure bone homeostasis. Numerous studies have shown that epigenetic mechanisms, which include microRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of gene expression. miRNAs are short, single-stranded molecules, which cause either target mRNA degradation or translation inhibition. miRNAs play an important role in tissue development and regulate many cellular processes. Furthermore, they are involved in the development of multiple diseases. Regarding bone, miRNAs were shown to significantly affect the differentiation, proliferation and function of both osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Some miRNAs have already been shown to affect bone formation through the Wnt/%-catenin signaling pathway and bone resorption via RANKL/RANK/OPG pathway. Also, studies have confirmed the involvement of miRNAs in bone%related pathologies such as osteoporosis, osteosarcoma, bone metastases and osteoarthritis. Cellular as well as easily accessible extracellular miRNAs are therefore interesting as biomarkers for early diagnosis and monitoring of treatment. Moreover, miRNAs are promising therapeutic targets. Namely, the disease associated miRNAs over-expression may be reduced using miRNA inhibitors, while miRNA deficiency can be overcome by exogenous synthetic miRNAs. Since miRNA studies in the field of bone diseases are at an early stage, further studies are required prior to their introduction into clinical practice.
B.04 Guest lecture
COBISS.SI-ID: 4036209