Dysregulated Network of miRNAs Involved in the Pathogenesis of Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic and organ- specific autoimmune disease in which immune cells act against the myelin sheath, resulting in central nervous system (CNS) damage. It has been revealed that miRNAs can play significant role in the pathogenesis of MS. These regulatory molecules lead to the activation of different signaling pathways, regulation of several transcriptional factors, influencing the differentiation of Th17 cells, development of Tregs and alteration from Th2 to Th1 response in MS. New studies have discovered that dysregulation of miRNAs may trigger abnormal immune responses leading consequently in the emergence of autoimmunity. In this review, we have discussed the altered expression patterns of miRNAs discovered in MS patients. These types of dysregulated miRNAs have been associated with MS pathogenesis. Current outcomes propose that such dysregulated miRNAs are potential to serve as useful biomarkers to diagnose MS, and to recognize new healing targets for its treatment.