MicroRNAs are involved in the toxicity of microcystins

Abstract

In this paper, miRNA expressions and their possible functions evaluated by using the qPCR, miRNA microarray and transcriptome in microcystins (MCs)-toxicity in fish, mammal and in vitro models were reviewed. In general, expressions of most miRNAs determined were altered in animal tissues or in vitro cells after MCs-exposure. Studies have also provided a pivotal understanding of miRNAs involved in the potential MCs-toxicity mechanism. These works suggest that further investigation, particularly in humans, is required to better understand the relationship between development of disease and MCs-exposure. Finally, the revealed miRNA pathways associated with MCs hepatotoxicity may provide therapeutic targets for a variety of human liver diseases.

• Microcystins
• MicroRNAs
• toxicity
• mechanism
• risk of health

Declaration of interest

All authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.

This research was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 31472285), the Innovation Scientists and Technicians Troop Construction Projects of Henan Province, China (Grant No. 164200510001) and the Key Subjects of Biology and Ecology in Henan Province, China.