The role of MicroRNAs in the regulation of oxidative stress in endometriosis

Micro ribonucleic acids (microRNA) are short, single-stranded non-coding RNA molecules that play a critical role in regulating a wide range of biological processes essential for maintaining homeostasis under physiological conditions. In addition to their functions in normal cellular regulation, miRNAs are increasingly recognized for their involvement in the pathogenesis of various diseases, particularly through their influence on oxidative stress mechanisms. Oxidative stress results from an imbalance between the excessive production of reactive oxygen species and a deficiency in antioxidant defenses. It is now acknowledged as a key contributor to the development and progression of endometriosis. Recent studies have identified several microRNAs (miR-21, miR-23a, miR-30a, miR-34a, miR-125b, miR-132, miR-146a, miR-155, miR-200c, miR-205, miR-484, and miR-6516-5p) that regulate oxidative stress by directly or indirectly modulating the transcription of antioxidant enzymes. Given their role in modulating redox status in endometriosis, these microRNAs may serve as valuable diagnostic and prognostic markers for the condition, aiding in the assessment of severity and stage progression.