Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder, primarily affecting the elderly, and is the leading cause of dementia, contributing to 50–75% of cases globally. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as crucial regulators in AD progression, influencing amyloid-beta production, tau phosphorylation, synaptic function, and neuroinflammation. Recent research highlights miRNAs as potential biomarkers for early diagnosis and therapeutic targets, offering new avenues to understand and address AD’s molecular complexity.

MiRNAs play a central role in modulating gene expression and are implicated in synaptic dysfunction, mitochondrial impairment, and inflammatory responses in AD. Dysregulated miRNAs contribute to neurodegenerative processes by impacting oxidative stress, mitochondrial dynamics, and neuronal signaling pathways. Studies on miR-132, for instance, reveal its neuroprotective role in reducing tau pathology and enhancing cognitive functions. The integration of miRNA research with genomic and molecular network studies holds promise for uncovering novel therapeutic strategies.

Reference: Li YB, Fu Q, Guo M, et al. MicroRNAs: pioneering regulators in Alzheimer’s disease pathogenesis, diagnosis, and therapy.Transl Psychiatry. 2024 Sep 10;14(1):367. doi: 10.1038/s41398-024-03075-8. PMID: 39256358; PMCID: PMC11387755.