Exploring the potential of microRNA as a diagnostic tool for gestational diabetes

• Published in: Journal of translational medicine Vol. 21; no. 1; p. 392
• Main Authors: Elhag, Duaa Ahmed, Al Khodor, Souhaila
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England BioMed Central Ltd 17-06-2023; BioMed Central; BMC
• Subjects: Analysis; Biomarkers; BMI; Care and treatment; Diabetes; Diabetes in pregnancy; Diabetes mellitus; Diabetes, Gestational - diagnosis; Diabetes, Gestational - genetics; Diagnosis; Female; Gene expression; Genetic aspects; Glucose metabolism; Glucose tolerance tests; Health aspects; Homeostasis; Humans; Insulin Resistance; Insulin-like growth factors; Macrosomia; MicroRNA; MicroRNAs; MicroRNAs - genetics; MicroRNAs - metabolism; miRNA; OGTT; Placenta - metabolism; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Complications; Review; Therapeutic targets; Womens health; China; Diabetes; OGTT; Pregnancy complications; BMI; Macrosomia
• ISSN: 1479-5876; 1479-5876
• DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04269-2

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that play critical roles in regulating host gene expression. Recent studies have indicated a role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), a common pregnancy-related disorder characterized by impaired glucose metabolism. Aberrant expression of miRNAs has been observed in the placenta and/or maternal blood of GDM patients, suggesting their potential use as biomarkers for early diagnosis and prognosis. Additionally, several miRNAs have been shown to modulate key signaling pathways involved in glucose homeostasis, insulin sensitivity, and inflammation, providing insights into the pathophysiology of GDM. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the dynamics of miRNA in pregnancy, their role in GDM as well as their potential as diagnostic and therapeutic targets.