Macrophage polarization in spinal cord injury repair and the possible role of microRNAs: A review

Heliyon, 2023 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e22914 · Published: November 27, 2023

Simple Explanation

Spinal cord injury (SCI) presents significant medical challenges regarding prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. After the initial mechanical damage, a cascade of events including inflammation, particularly involving macrophages, exacerbates the injury. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a crucial role in regulating macrophage polarization, influencing the inflammatory response and potentially facilitating functional recovery after SCI.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

Review article

Key Findings

1
M1 macrophages exacerbate inflammation and hinder neuronal regeneration in SCI, whereas M2 macrophages mitigate inflammation and foster axonal growth and functional recovery.
2
miRNAs such as miR-155, miR-130a, and miR-27 contribute to M1 polarization, while miR-22, miR-146a, miR-21, miR-124, miR-223, miR-93, miR-132, and miR-34a promote M2 polarization following SCI.
3
The review emphasizes the potential therapeutic role of miRNAs in modulating macrophage polarization to promote SCI repair, while also addressing current developments and obstacles in miRNA clinical therapy.

Research Summary

This review elucidates the inflammatory response to SCI, focusing on the infiltration of immune cells, specifically macrophages. It examines their phenotype and provides an explanation of their polarization mechanisms. This paper introduces several well-known miRNAs that contribute to macrophage polarization following SCI.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Potential of M2 Macrophages

Promoting M2 macrophage polarization could be an effective therapeutic strategy for SCI.

miRNA-Based Therapies

Targeting specific miRNAs to modulate macrophage polarization offers a novel therapeutic avenue for SCI.

Clinical Translation Challenges

Overcoming obstacles in miRNA clinical therapy is crucial for realizing the potential benefits for SCI patients.

Study Limitations

1
Better understanding of the biological functions and targets of macrophage-associated miRNAs is required.
2
The interaction of various immune cells should be thoroughly considered.
3
More human studies are required to successfully complete clinical translation.

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