The role of miRNAs as biomarkers in heterotopic ossification

Abstract

• Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva and progressive osseous heteroplasia are genetic forms of heterotopic ossification (HO). Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva is caused by ACVR1 gene mutations, while progressive osseous heteroplasia is caused by GNAS gene mutations.

• Nongenetic HO typically occurs after trauma or surgery, with an occurrence rate of 20–60%. It can also be observed in conditions such as diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis, spinal ligament ossification, ankylosing spondylitis, and skeletal fluorosis. The exact cause of nongenetic HO is not entirely clear.

• More than 100 types of miRNAs have been identified as being linked to the development of HO. Some miRNAs are promising potential biomarkers for traumatic HO and ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament. These findings further emphasize the significant role miRNAs play in the pathogenesis and progression of bone disorders.

• Repeated investigations into the function of a specific miRNA are infrequent and yield inconsistent results, possibly because of variable experimental conditions.

• It is hypothesized that miRNAs can enhance osteogenesis for the management of fractures and bone defects. However, further research is required to validate this hypothesis.