Long before, researchers have considered microRNAs as an even smaller version of the RNA molecule that has the ability to influence basic cellular processes. Having said that, a significant number of experts have also proposed that these small RNA molecules can potentially be used as biomarkers for the diagnosis, progression and treatment of multiple sclerosis. Consequently, a new study recently conducted at the Ann Romney Center of Neurologic Diseases at Brigham and Women's Hospital has revealed that serum microRNAs are also linked to MRI findings in the brain and spinal cord particularly in patients with MS.
Serum MicroRNAs: The Cure For Multiple Sclerosis?
According to reports revealed by News Medical Life Sciences, researchers believe the findings obtained from their study could potentially help in identifying some distinct yet underlying disease processes, such as inflammation and tissue destruction. In the study which was published on the journal JAMA Neurology, it was found that researchers have reportedly examined the connection between serum microRNAs and MRI measures in order to evaluate the severity of MS. Meanwhile, experts said that their study has included looking at lesions and atrophy, as a measure of degeneration of the cells, in the central nervous system. Consequently, among the results that were generated from the study, the researchers have allegedly identified that the expression of certain microRNAs were linked to MRI measures.
Study Proposition
In one of his statements reported by Science Daily, senior co-author Rohit Bakshi, MD, MA said that their findings basically imply that the disease is heterogeneous. Despite these claims, Bakshi has highly emphasized that there is a complex set of mechanisms at play, and it may vary from patient to patient. Furthermore, an assistant professor at BWH and the study's senior co-author Roopali Gandhi, PhD has claimed that as soon as it has been proven that microRNAs could serve as biomarkers for MS, these markers have the potential to provide novel treatment targets.
