Circulating microRNAs as long-term biomarkers for the detection of erythropoiesis-stimulating agent abuse

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-protein coding transcripts involved in many cellular and physiological mechanisms. Recently, a new class of miRNA called circulating miRNAs was found in cell-free body fluids such as plasma and urine. Circulating miRNAs have been shown to be very stable, specific, and sensitive biomarkers.