Work

MiR ‐210‐3p is upregulated in diabetic peripheral neuropathy and may be involved in the progression of the disease by targeting brain‐derived neurotrophic factor

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), a complication of diabetes, is characterized by complex pathophysiology, high global morbidity, and limited early diagnostic tools. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as potential regulators in DPN. AIMS: This study aimed to investigate miR-210-3p as a diagnostic biomarker for DPN and elucidate its molecular mechanisms in disease progression. METHODS: A total of 72 type 2 diabetes patients, 75 DPN patients, and 70 healthy controls were enrolled. Serum miR-210-3p expression was measured by RT-qPCR, and its diagnostic value was evaluated using ROC curve analysis. Multivariate logistic regression identified risk factors for DPN in type 2 diabetes patients. In vitro, a high-glucose (HG) induced RSC96 Schwann cell model was established to explore miR-210-3p function. Dual-luciferase reporter experiments demonstrated that miR-210-3p directly targets BDNF. Additionally, CCK-8 assays measured proliferation, flow cytometry analyzed apoptosis, and transwell chambers quantified cell migration. RESULTS: Serum levels of miR-210-3p were markedly elevated in DPN patients compared with both type 2 diabetes subjects and healthy controls (P < 0.001). The diagnostic performance was robust, achieving an AUC of 0.830 (sensitivity 72.0%; specificity 80.6%). Multivariate analysis confirmed miR-210-3p, fasting blood glucose, and glycated hemoglobin A1c as independent DPN risk factors. MiR-210-3p negatively regulated BDNF, and the miR-210-3p inhibitor reversed HG-induced Schwann cell dysfunction, while BDNF knockdown abrogated this protective effect. CONCLUSIONS: MiR-210-3p serves as a potential diagnostic biomarker for DPN and regulates Schwann cell function via targeting BDNF, providing novel insights into DPN pathogenesis and therapeutic targets.

Source: Journal of Diabetes Investigation

DOI: 10.1111/jdi.70199

Authors: Yafei Zhao, Liu Wang, Dongcai Feng

Institution: Third Xiangya Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Pain Mechanisms and Treatments

Subfield: Physiology (medical)

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,850