Diagnostic and therapeutic value of micro-RNAs in inflammatory bowel disease

Abstract

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a heterogeneous chronic idiopathic inflammatory disease that includes ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease with uncertain etiology and pathogenesis. The prevalence of IBD has steadily increased worldwide, affecting numerous groups of people in both developed and developing countries. Current guidelines are being re-defined with the aim for patients with established IBD to achieve mucosal healing and complete morphological figures with minimal drug toxicity, to diminish the likelihood of extra-intestinal manifestations and dysplasia/ colorectal cancer, and to prevent the need for surgery. Many patients with established IBD may require conventional treatment, as well as alternative treatment, due to non-response, loss of response, or intolerance to treatment regimen. In this context, stratification of risk and management of IBD could be based on personified strategy predominantly allocated to core components of pathogenesis of the disease. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are defined as non-coding short RNAs which are involved in various stages of the natural evolution of IBD. Recent animal and clinical studies have shown the role of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and signature of miRNAs in susceptibility to IBD, risk of clinical and histological exacerbation, and remission. The aim of the review is to summarize the knowledge regarding use of miRNAs as biomarkers and molecular targets in IBD.