Work

Profiling of circulating microRNAs: from single biomarkers to re-wired networks

Year: 2011

Type: review

Abstract: The recent discovery that microRNAs (miRNAs) are present in the circulation sparked interest in their use as potential biomarkers. In this review, we will summarize the latest findings on circulating miRNAs and cardiovascular disease but also discuss analytical challenges. While research on circulating miRNAs is still in its infancy, high analytical standards in statistics and study design are a prerequisite to obtain robust data and avoid repeating the mistakes of the early genetic association studies. Otherwise, studies tend to get published because of their novelty despite low numbers, poorly matched cases and controls and no multivariate adjustment for conventional risk factors. Research on circulating miRNAs can only progress by bringing more statistical rigour to bear in this field and by evaluating changes of individual miRNAs in the context of the overall miRNA network. Such miRNA signatures may have better diagnostic and prognostic value.

Source: Cardiovascular Research

DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvr266

Authors: A. Zampetaki, P. Willeit, I. Drozdov, S. Kiechl, M. Mayr

Institutions: King's College London, Innsbruck Medical University, Universität Innsbruck, University of Cambridge, British Heart Foundation

Language: English

Topic: MicroRNA in disease regulation

Subfield: Cancer Research

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funder: British Heart Foundation