Analysis of microRNA-199a-3p expression in CD4+ T cells of systemic lupus erythematosus

Objectives Accumulating evidence have suggested microRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Here we aimed to explore aberrant expression of miRNAs in CD4(+) T cells from SLE patients and their potential function in SLE pathogenesis.Methods First, next-generation sequencing was performed on CD4(+) T cells from four SLE patients and three healthy controls (HCs). Candidate miRNAs were then validated in CD4(+) T cells from 97 patients with SLE, 16 patients with rheumatoid arthritis, and 12 HCs using qRT-PCR. Then the relationship between the candidate miRNA and clinical characteristics was analyzed. Bioinformatics analysis and validation of the target genes of the candidate miRNA were performed.Results A total of 66 upregulated miRNAs and 70 downregulated miRNAs were found between SLE and normal CD4(+) T cells samples. miR-199a-3p was identified significant upregulation in the CD4(+) T cells of lupus patients. High expression of miR-199a-3p was correlated with several clinical characteristics including low C3 level, positive anti-dsDNA antibody, high ESR level, active lupus nephritis, and active disease activity. When distinguishing active LN from non-LN or active lupus from stable lupus, the AUCs of miR-199a-3p were 0.68 and 0.70, respectively. And the expression of miR-199a-3p, involved in JAK-STAT signaling pathway, was negatively correlated with the STAM expression in CD4(+) T cells of SLE.Conclusion Our study suggested a novel and promising role of miR-199a-3p in CD4(+) T cells for SLE. Further studies are needed to precisely determine the function of miR-199a-3p in this disease.