Diagnostic and Prognostic Significance of miRNA-21 and miRNA-146a in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Nephropathy.
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Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is the most common cause of chronic kidney disease, with complications of diabetes nephropathy. Several microRNAs are associated with an inflammatory and fibrotic mechanism implicated in the cellular pathways of diabetic kidney injury, including miRNA-21 and miRNA-146a. To enquire about the potential diagnostic and/or prognostic value of miRNA-21 and miRNA-146a among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with or at risk for diabetic nephropathy. Methods. This systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines. Four electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library) were searched from January 2014 to December 2025. Studies measuring the expression and clinical value of miRNA-21 and miRNA-146a in T2DM and diabetic nephropathy were sought. miRNA-21 and miRNA-146a may represent candidates for further exploration in terms of their diagnostic and prognostic utility in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients and diabetic nephropathy. Their use in clinical settings could aid in early recognition, refine risk stratification, and potentially support tailored approaches to management and disease prevention.