Identifying Acne and Acne-Related Scarring Through MicroRNA Signatures

This study aimed to identify a unique microRNA (miRNA) signature for acne and acne-related scarring. miRNAs are small molecules that play a crucial role in gene expression.

They have been found to show different patterns in various diseases, creating a unique 'signature' that can be associated with specific conditions. 

Industry application

The research was conducted in the medical and healthcare industry, specifically in the field of dermatology.

The research found that three specific miRNAs (miR-223, miR-21, and miR-150) were significantly overexpressed in acne lesions and in the skin of participants prone to scarring, even if the skin was not currently affected by acne. These miRNAs were also found in elevated levels in the blood of these patients. 

Ghumra W, Lee N, Whitehouse H, Bhutani R, Lagos D, Layton AM. MicroRNAs as biomarkers of atrophic scarring in acne: a cross-sectional analysis of 41 patients. Clin Exp Dermatol. 2021;46(8):1495-503. DOI: 10.1111/ced.14792