MicroRNA molecular profiling reveals increase expression of hsa-miR-186-5p, hsa-miR-320a-3p, and hsa-miR-486-5p with storage time in packed blood cells

BACKGROUND: Compared to other blood cells, adult red blood cells have a higher concentration of microRNAs (miRNAs). The effectiveness of preserved blood cells following transfusion is affected by a variety of factors, like changes in miRNA levels. One day, these small RNAs might help determine the efficacy and safety of blood products. AIMS: This study sought to identify the miRNA present in both fresh blood and stored blood because there is growing evidence that these cells are enriched with miRNAs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Blood samples were taken from three healthy donors to detect the expression of miRNAs using illumina platform for RNA sequencing. Total RNA was isolated from stored units at 0, 14, 21, and 28 days, respectively. Bioinformatics analysis has been carried out to analyze the miRNAs. RESULTS: The majority of miRNA expression was decreased in time-dependent manner, particularly after day 14 of packed blood cells (PBCs) storage such as hsa-miR-20a-5p, hsa-miR-17-5p, and hsa-miR-423-3p. While other miRNAs such as hsa-miR-320a-3p, hsa-miR-186-5p, and hsa-miR-486-5p, showed a significant re-upregulated after day 21. CONCLUSION: In summary, the PBCs at days 14 and 21 had the lowest levels of miRNAs, which may indicate less of a relationship with storage lesions. However, older PBCs displayed significant levels of miRNAs, which could indicate storage lesions or cause a number of clinical issues for the recipients.