The impact of non-coding RNAs on macrophage polarization

Biomed Pharmacother. 2021 Oct:142:112112. doi: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112112. Epub 2021 Aug 27.

Abstract

Macrophage polarization is a process through which macrophages attain unique functional features as a response to certain stimuli from their niche. Lipopolysaccharide and Th1 cytokines induce generation of M1 macrophages. On the other hand, IL-4, IL-13, IL-10, IL-33, and TGF-β induce polarization of macrophages towards M2 phenotype. This process is also modulated by a number of miRNAs and lncRNAs. miR-375, miR-let7, miR-34a, miR-155, miR-124, miR-34a, miR-511-3p, miR-99a, miR-132 and miR-145-3p are among miRNAs that regulate macrophage polarization. Meanwhile, macrophage polarization is influenced by some lncRNAs such as H19, NRON, MEG3, GAS5, RN7SK, and AK085865. Macrophage polarization has functional significance in a wide range of human disorders particularly immune disorders and cancer. In addition, the effect of certain drugs in modulation of macrophage polarization is exerted through modulation of expression of non-coding RNAs. In the current manuscript, we provide a summary of studies aimed to identification of this aspect of non-coding RNAs.

Keywords: LncRNA; Macrophage polarization; MiRNA.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cytokines / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Immune System Diseases / genetics
  • Immune System Diseases / physiopathology
  • Macrophage Activation / genetics*
  • Macrophages / metabolism*
  • MicroRNAs / genetics
  • Neoplasms / genetics
  • Neoplasms / pathology
  • RNA, Long Noncoding / genetics
  • RNA, Untranslated / genetics*

Substances

  • Cytokines
  • MicroRNAs
  • RNA, Long Noncoding
  • RNA, Untranslated