Uterine microRNA signature and consequence of their dysregulation in uterine disorders

ABSTRACT

MicroRNA (miRNA) has emerged as key post-transcriptional regulator and through this mechanism control many normal developmental and physiological processes. Conversely, aberrant expression of some miRNAs has been correlated with various disorders, more specifically, development and progression of malignancy. Endometrium is a dynamic tissue which undergoes extensive cyclic changes in preparation for embryo implantation during reproductive years, as well as changes that occur following menopause, and establishment of benign and malignant uterine disorders. These processes are highly regulated by ovarian steroids and locally expressed genes in response to steroid hormone receptor-mediated signaling and include genes related to inflammatory reaction, apoptosis, cell-cycle progression, angiogenesis and tissue remodeling. Here we present an overview of our current understanding of uterine miRNA biogenesis and highlights their potential regulatory functions in cellular processes relevant to normal uterine physiological and pathological disorders such as endometriosis, dysfunctional uterine bleeding and endometrial cancer. Understanding the expression, regulation and functional aspects of miRNAs in uterine environment under normal and various disorders may lead to their potential utilization as diagnostic as well as therapeutic tool.