Noncoding RNAs in asthmatic airway smooth muscle cells

Asthma is a complex and heterogeneous airway disease caused by genetic, environmental and epigenetic factors treated with hormones and biologics. Irreversible pathological changes to airway smooth muscle cells (ASMCs) such as hyperplasia and hypertrophy can occur in asthmatic patients. Determining the mechanisms responsible is vital for preventing such changes. In recent years, noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), especially microRNAs, long noncoding RNAs and circular RNAs, have been found to be associated with abnormalities of the ASMCs. This review highlights recent ncRNA research into ASMC pathologies. We present a schematic that illustrates the role of ncRNAs in pathophysiological changes to ASMCs that may be useful in future research in diagnostic and treatment strategies for patients with asthma.

Automated summary

Asthma is a complex and heterogeneous airway disease treated with hormones and biologics. Noncoding RNAs, especially microRNAs, have been found to be associated with pathological changes to airway smooth muscle cells (ASMCs) in asthmatic patients. This review highlights recent research into ncRNAs and their role in ASMC pathologies, providing potential insights for future diagnostic and treatment strategies.