Investigating the Imperative Role of microRNAs Expression in Human Embryo Implantation: A Narrative Review Based on Recent Evidence
Anastasios Potiris,
Sofoklis Stavros,
Ioanna Zouganeli,
Nikolaos Machairiotis,
Eirini Drakaki,
Athanasios Zikopoulos,
Ismini Anagnostaki,
Athanasios Zachariou,
Angeliki Gerede,
Ekaterini Domali,
Peter Drakakis
Affiliations
Anastasios Potiris
Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University General Hospital “ATTIKON”, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 124 62 Athens, Greece
Sofoklis Stavros
Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University General Hospital “ATTIKON”, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 124 62 Athens, Greece
Ioanna Zouganeli
Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University General Hospital “ATTIKON”, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 124 62 Athens, Greece
Nikolaos Machairiotis
Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University General Hospital “ATTIKON”, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 124 62 Athens, Greece
Eirini Drakaki
First Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Alexandra Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 28 Athens, Greece
Athanasios Zikopoulos
Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University General Hospital “ATTIKON”, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 124 62 Athens, Greece
Ismini Anagnostaki
Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University General Hospital “ATTIKON”, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 124 62 Athens, Greece
Athanasios Zachariou
Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Ioannina University, 451 10 Ioannina, Greece
Angeliki Gerede
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Democritus University of Thrace, 691 00 Alexandroupolis, Greece
Ekaterini Domali
First Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Alexandra Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 28 Athens, Greece
Peter Drakakis
Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University General Hospital “ATTIKON”, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 124 62 Athens, Greece
Background/Objectives: Embryo implantation is a highly complex process that requires the precise regulation of numerous molecules to be orchestrated successfully. Micro RNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression and play a crucial role in the regulation of embryo implantation. This article aims to summarize the key findings of the literature regarding the role of miRNAs in human embryo implantation, emphasizing their involvement in critical stages such as decidualization, endometrial receptivity and trophoblast adhesion. Methods: This review includes primary research articles from the past decade. The studies utilize a range of experimental methodologies, including gene expression analysis and in vitro studies. Results: MicroRNAs, like miR-320a, miR-149, and miR30d secreted by preimplantation embryos and blastocysts significantly influence endometrial receptivity by promoting essential cellular processes, such as cell migration and trophoblast cell attachment, while others—miR17-5p, miR-193-3p, miR-372, and miR-542-3p—secreted from the endometrium regulate the decidualization phase. During the apposition and adhesion phases, miRNAs play a complex role by promoting, for example, miR-23b-3p, and inhibiting—as do miR-29c and miR-519d-3p—important biological pathways of these stages. During invasion, miR-26a-5p and miR-125-5p modulate important genes. Conclusions: This review underscores the critical impact of miRNAs in the regulation of embryo implantation and early pregnancy. The ability of miRNAs to modulate gene expression at various stages of reproduction presents promising therapeutic avenues for improving assisted reproductive technologies outcomes and addressing infertility. Further research into miRNA-based diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies is essential to enhance our understanding of their role in reproductive health and to exploit their potential for clinical applications.
