MicroRNAs and their implications in CD4+ T-cells, oligodendrocytes and dendritic cells in multiple sclerosis pathogenesis

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been established as key players in various biological processes regulating differentiation, proliferation, inflammation, and autoimmune disorders. Emerging evidence suggests the critical role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS). Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of miRNAs, which are differentially expressed in MS patients or experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) mice and contribute to MS pathogenesis through regulating diverse pathways, including CD4+ T cells proliferation, differentiation, and activation in three subtypes of CD4+ T cells, including Th1, Th17 and regulatory T cells (Tregs). Moreover, the regulation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPC) differentiation as a crucial player in MS pathogenesis is also described. Our literature research showed that miR-223 could affect different pathways involved in MS pathogenesis, such as promoting Th1 differentiation, activating the M2 phenotype of myeloid cells, and clearing myelin debris. MiR-223 was also identified as a potential biomarker, distinguishing relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) from progressive multiple sclerosis (PMS), and thus, it may serve as an attractive target for further investigations. Our overview provides novel potential therapeutic targets for the treatment and new insights into miRNAs' role in MS pathogenesis.