The importance of microRNAs in the pathogenesis, development of complications and possible treatment of diabetes

Abstract

In the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes primarily involves two factors: excessive intake of calories in the diet, and too little physical activity. Not without significance here are, however, also genetic factors. In recent years, more frequently stresses the importance of particular importance of microRNA molecules in the development of type 2 diabetes and its complications. MicroRNAs are a family of single-stranded, non- -coding, endogenous regulatory molecules, resulting from double-stranded precursors. They are present inplant cells, animal and human. Consist normally of 21–23 nucleotides, and their main role is associated with post-transcriptional regulation of expression of numerous genes. The paper discusses the importance of microRNAs in the pathogenesis of diabetes and the development of its late complications, both small and large vessels (retinopathy, neuropathy, nephropathy, arteriosclerosis, myocardial damage). In the following part of the paper presents initially suggested the use of microRNAs as a biomarker and potential significance of the lock microRNAs in therapy.