Abstract:

microRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of highly conserved endogenous non-coding RNAs. Emerging studies demonstrate that miRNAs play important roles in many physiological and pathological processes. Following peripheral nerve injury, the expression levels of numerous miRNAs change significantly. Differentially expressed miRNAs negatively regulate their target genes, and thus affect the regeneration and reconstruction of injured peripheral nerve. In the current review, the authors discuss the regulatory effect of miRNAs on neuron, Schwann cells, and denervated muscles. A full cognition of these differentially expressed miRNAs benefits the understanding of the intrinsic molecular mechanisms underlying peripheral nerve regeneration and may provide a new strategy for the clinical application of miRNAs.