Association of Altered Serum MicroRNAs with Perihematomal Edema after Acute Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Background and Purpose Perihematomal edema (PHE) contributes to secondary brain damage and aggravates patient outcomes after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are stable in circulation, and their unique expression profiles have fundamental roles in modulating vascular disease. The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that altered miRNA levels are associated with PHE in ICH patients. Methods Hematoma and PHE volumes of ICH patients were measured on admission and in follow-up computed tomography scans. Whole-genome miRNA profiles of ICH patients and healthy controls were determined using the Exiqon miRCURY LNA Array, and validated by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Bioinformatics analysis investigated dysregulated miRNA target genes and the signaling pathways involved. Results We identified 55 miRNAs that were differentially expressed in ICH patients compared with normal controls, of which 54 were down-regulated and one was up-regulated. qRT-PCR confirmation showed decreases in miR-126 (0.63-fold), miR-146a (0.64-fold), miR-let-7a (0.50-fold), and miR-26a (0.54-fold) in ICH patients relative to controls. Serum miR-126, but not miR-146a, miR-let-7a or miR-26a, levels were significantly correlated with relative PHE volume on days 3-4 (r = -0.714; P<0.001) in patients with ICH. Conclusions ICH patients appear to have a specific miRNA expression profile. Low expression of miR-126 was positively correlated with the extent of PHE, suggesting it may have a pathogenic role in the development of PHE after ICH.