Microrna-155 as a Possible Pharmacological Target

Abstract

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. The mechanism of miRNA action includes degradation of mRNA or suppression of its translation. MicroRNA-155 is one of the most studied miRNAs. Its expression increases on the background of tumor and inflammatory processes or infectious diseases, which is accompanied by increased production of proinflammatory cytokines. miRNA-155 often plays a negative role in the above conditions. Presumably, suppression or activation of mi-RNA-155 expression can lead to a change in the disease course by changing cellular metabolism. Therefore, a search for modulators of its expression is a relevant goal. Possible targets of miRNA-155 and its effects incurred in various cells and tissues and the possibility of pharmacological regulation of miRNA-155 are reviewed herein. Antisense oligonucleotides (anti-miRNAs, for example, an oligonucleotide called Cobomarsen) can act as direct inhibitors of miRNA-155. Moreover, compounds that suppress its expression (steroid hormones, bioflavonoids, and some others) are also being studied.