Circulating MicroRNAs as novel biomarkers of drug-induced liver injury in humans

Julian Krauskopf*, Jos C. Kleinjans, Theo M. de Kok

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterAcademic

Abstract

MicroRNAs have become a promising candidate for responding to the need for more specific and sensitive biomarkers for drug-induced liver injury (DILI). These small noncoding RNA molecules exert a regulatory function on biological processes by fine tuning gene expression levels. MicroRNAs are the most abundant and stable class of small RNAs in the cell and they are expressed in a cell type- and organ-specific manner. The expression of miRNAs changes with disease state and cells are actively and/or passively secreting miRNAs into the peripheral circulation. These extracellular, circulating miRNAs have been found to reflect the condition of distant organs. Numerous studies have shown elevated serum levels of miR-122, a liver-enriched miRNA, upon drug-induced hepatotoxicity and as a consequence of other liver injuries. These studies demonstrate the potential use of blood samples as minimally invasive, miRNA based “liquid biopsies,” able to interrogate hepatotoxic mechanisms and liver pathology. The purpose of this review is to summarize the recent advances on miRNA-based biomarker research for drug-induced liver injury.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationDrug-Induced Liver Toxicity
EditorsMinjun Chen, Yvonne Will
PublisherHumana Press
Pages597-610
Number of pages14
ISBN (Electronic)978-1-4939-7677-5
ISBN (Print)978-1-4939-7676-8, 978-1-4939-9256-0
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2018

Publication series

SeriesMethods in Pharmacology and Toxicology
ISSN1557-2153

Keywords

  • Acetaminophen
  • Biomarker
  • Drug-induced liver injury
  • microRNAs

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