Evaluation of miRNA-122, miRNA-149, miRNA-199a, and miRNA- let7 Expression in HIV, HBV, and HIV-HBV Co-infected Patients

Background and Aim: Currently, HIV, HBV, and HIV/HBV co-infection are important global health issues. It has been estimated that 2.7 million people are co-infected with HIV and HBV worldwide. In recent years, miRNAs have shown promising results as a research area. The current study aimed to investigate the expression level of miRNA-122, miRNA-149, miRNA-199a, and miRNA-let7 in HIV, HBV, HIV/HBV co-infected patients, and healthy controls. Materials and Methods: In the current study, miRNA expression levels were assessed in PBMC obtained from patients by real-time PCR. Results: The miRNA-122 was significantly upregulated in HIV/HBV co-infection patients compared with other groups ( P <0.001). Also, miRNA-199a and miRNA-let7 were significantly down-regulated in all patient groups compared to the healthy controls ( P < 0.001). Correlation analysis demonstrated significant negative correlations between the expression level of miR- 149 and miR-199a with HIV viral load ( P <0.001) and HBV viral load, respectively ( P <0.01). Conclusion: This preliminary study could reflect a limited perspective on the field of the miRNAs in HBV and HIV infection. The study suggested further investigation to understand better the role of the miRNA in HIV and HBV infections.