The roles and perspectives of microRNAs as biomarkers for intervertebral disc degeneration.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are highly conserved molecules that regulate protein levels post-transcriptionally. Aberrant miRNA expression presents in various musculoskeletal disorders, such as osteoporosis, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The expression levels of miRNAs are characterized by endogenous properties and tissue specificity. This raises the possibility that miRNAs could serve as useful clinical biomarkers in the diagnosis of certain diseases. Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is one of the major causes of back pain, and a process characterized by a cascade of molecular, cellular, biochemical and structural changes. The presence of dysregulated miRNA expression in patients with disc degeneration diseases indicates that miRNAs may play a vital role in the pathogenesis of IDD. Here, we provide an introduction of the roles of miRNAs in the process of IDD, and the prospective application of miRNAs as biomarkers for IDD. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.