MicroRNAs regulate human brain endothelial cell-barrier function in inflammation: implications for multiple sclerosis

J Neurosci. 2013 Apr 17;33(16):6857-63. doi: 10.1523/JNEUROSCI.3965-12.2013.

Abstract

Blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction is a major hallmark of many neurological diseases, including multiple sclerosis (MS). Using a genomics approach, we defined a microRNA signature that is diminished at the BBB of MS patients. In particular, miR-125a-5p is a key regulator of brain endothelial tightness and immune cell efflux. Our findings suggest that repair of a disturbed BBB through microRNAs may represent a novel avenue for effective treatment of MS.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Blood-Brain Barrier / drug effects
  • Blood-Brain Barrier / physiopathology*
  • Brain / pathology*
  • Cell Line, Transformed
  • Cytokines / metabolism
  • Endothelial Cells / drug effects
  • Endothelial Cells / metabolism
  • Endothelial Cells / physiology*
  • Gene Expression Regulation / drug effects
  • Genetic Vectors / physiology
  • Humans
  • Inflammation / pathology*
  • MicroRNAs / genetics
  • MicroRNAs / metabolism*
  • Multiple Sclerosis / pathology*
  • RNA, Small Interfering / pharmacology
  • Transendothelial and Transepithelial Migration / drug effects
  • Transfection

Substances

  • Cytokines
  • MicroRNAs
  • RNA, Small Interfering