Fine-tuning oligodendrocyte development by microRNAs

Oligodendrocytes create myelin sheaths around nerve fibers in the central nervous system, which is vital for proper nerve function. Damage to these cells leads to diseases like multiple sclerosis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small molecules that control gene expression and play a crucial role in how oligodendrocytes develop. MiRNAs affect various aspects of oligodendrocyte development, including how they multiply, specialize, and form myelin. Understanding how miRNAs work could help in treating diseases where myelin is damaged. This review discusses how miRNAs regulate myelination and their potential role in demyelinating diseases. It also highlights the connection between miRNAs and the regulatory networks involved in myelination.

• 1
  MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a critical role in oligodendrocyte development, including cell proliferation, differentiation, and myelin formation.
• 2
  Specific miRNAs, such as miR-219 and miR-338, are substantially increased at the onset of oligodendrocyte myelination and play a positive role in promoting OPC differentiation.
• 3
  Dysregulation of miRNAs, particularly miR-219 and miR-338, is implicated in demyelinating diseases like multiple sclerosis, suggesting their potential role in human OL maturation and myelin repair.