Large‑scale analysis of MicroRNA expression in motor neuron‑like cells derived from human umbilical cord blood mesenchymal stem cells

This study explores how small molecules called microRNAs (miRNAs) change when human umbilical cord stem cells turn into motor neuron-like cells. Motor neuron diseases such as spinal cord injuries and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis are known as the most common disorders worldwide. The researchers treated the stem cells with retinoic acid (RA) and sonic hedgehog (Shh) to make them change into motor neuron-like cells. Then, they looked at which miRNAs were more or less active during this change. Human CB-MSCs were isolated and characterized using flow cytometry. The study found that some miRNAs, like miR-9-5p and miR-324-5p, became more active when the stem cells were turning into motor neuron-like cells. Other miRNAs, like miR-137 and let-7b, became less active. These miRNAs seem to be important for helping stem cells become neurons and motor neurons. The miRNA profile analysis showed a significant up-regulation in the expression of some miRs involved in neuron differentiation and motor neuron maturation.

• 1
  MiR-9-5p and miR-324-5p were significantly up-regulated in cells treated with retinoic acid (RA) and sonic hedgehog (Shh), suggesting their involvement in early motor neuron differentiation. The analysis of miRNA sequencing demonstrated a significant up-regulation of miR-9-5p and miR-324-5p in Test 1 (RA + /Shh +).
• 2
  MiR-137 and let-7b were significantly down-regulated in cells where RA and Shh were absent, indicating their potential role in suppressing proliferation in neural progenitor cells. Also, there is a considerable down-regulation of mir-137 and let-7b in Test 2 (RA-/Shh-).
• 3
  Several novel miRNAs involved in cholinergic, JAK-STAT, Hedgehog, and MAPK signaling pathways were detected, suggesting their potential roles in motor neuron generation and maturation. Furthermore, significant up-regulation was detected in some novel microRNAs involved in cholinergic, JAK-STAT, and Hedgehog and MAPK signaling pathways.