Micro RNAs Regulating Signaling Pathways:Potential Biomarkers in Systemic Sclerosis

Systemic sclerosis(SSc) is a multisystem fibrotic and autoimmune disease. Both genetic and epigenetic elements mediate SSc pathophysiology. This review summarizes the role of one epigenetic element, known as micro RNAs(mi RNAs), involved in different signaling pathways of SSc pathogenesis. The expression of key components in transforming growth factor-b(TGF-b)signaling pathway has been found to be regulated by mi RNAs both upstream and downstream of TGF-b. We are specifically interested in the pathway components upstream of TGF-b, while mi RNAs in other signaling pathways have not been extensively studied. The emerging role of mi RNAs in vasculopathy of SSc suggests a promising new direction for future investigation. Elucidation of the regulatory role of mi RNAs in the expression of signaling factors may facilitate the discovery of novel biomarkers in SSc and improve the understanding and treatment of this disease.