Role of microRNAs in the age-associated decline of pancreatic beta cell function in rat islets.

Aims/hypothesis: Ageing can lead to reduced insulin sensitivity and loss of pancreatic beta cell function, predisposing individuals to the development of diabetes. The aim of this study was to assess the contribution of microRNAs (miRNAs) to age-associated beta cell dysfunction.

Methods: The global mRNA and miRNA profiles of 3- and 12-month-old rat islets were collected by microarray.

Therapeutic potential of miRNAs in diabetes mellitus.

miRNAs are major regulators of gene expression that are emerging as central players in the development of many human diseases, including diabetes mellitus. In fact, the manifestation of diabetes is associated with alterations in the miRNA profile in insulin-secreting cells, insulin target tissues and, in case of long-term diabetes complications, in many additional organs. Diabetes also results in changes in the profile of miRNAs detectable in blood and other body fluids.