An update on the role of miR-124 in the pathogenesis of human disorders

ABS T R A C T MicroRNA-124 (miR-124) is a copious miRNA in the brain, but it is expressed in a wide range of human/animal tissues participating in the pathogenesis of several disorders. Based on its important function in the development of the nervous system, abnormal expression of miR-124 has been detected in nervous system diseases including Alzheimer?s disease, Parkinson?s disease, Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy, Huntington?s disease, and ischemic stroke. In addition to these conditions, miR-124 contributes to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disorders, hypertension, and atherosclerosis. Besides, it has been shown to be down-regulated in a wide range of human cancers such as colorectal cancer, breast cancer, gastric cancer, glioma, pancreatic cancer, and other types of cancer. Yet, few studies have reported upregulation of miR-124 in some cancer types. In the current study, we describe the role of miR-124 in these malignant and non-malignant conditions.

Automated summary

miR-124 is abundantly expressed in the brain but also found in a wide range of tissues, playing a role in various diseases including neurological disorders and cancers. Its abnormal expression is associated with the pathogenesis of these conditions.