The important roles of microRNAs (miRNAs) in kidney development, homeostasis and disease are becoming increasingly recognized. These small, non-coding RNA molecules are now understood to participate in the onset and progression of pathways involved in development of end-stage renal disease; they therefore represent potential new therapeutic targets for halting progression of chronic kidney diseases. This Review describes current research investigating the roles of miRNAs in normal kidney physiology and diseases with particular attention given to the TGF-β1 pathway and its regulation by miRNAs.
- Piera Trionfini
- Ariela Benigni
- Giuseppe Remuzzi