MicroRNAs involved in bone formation

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

During skeletal development, mesenchymal progenitor cells undergo a multistage differentiation process in which they proliferate and become bone- and cartilage-forming cells. This process is tightly regulated by multiple levels of regulatory systems. The small non-coding RNAs, microRNAs (miRNAs), post-transcriptionally regulate gene expression. Recent studies have demonstrated that miRNAs play significant roles in all stages of bone formation, suggesting the possibility that miRNAs can be novel therapeutic targets for skeletal diseases. Here, we review the role and mechanism of action of miRNAs in bone formation. We discuss roles of specific miRNAs in major types of bone cells, osteoblasts, chondrocytes, osteoclasts, and their progenitors. Except a few, the current knowledge about miRNAs in bone formation has been obtained mainly by in vitro studies; further validation of these findings in vivo is awaited. We also discuss about several miRNAs of particular interest in the light of future therapies of bone diseases.

Evidence level

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

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