Mir-144-3p Ameliorates The Progression Of Osteoarthritis By Targeting Il-1 Beta: Potential Therapeutic Implications

The pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin 1 beta (IL-1 beta) plays a critical role in osteoarthritis (OA) disease pathogenesis. MicroRNA (miRNA) activity is related to inflammation in OA and some miRNAs specifically regulate IL-mediated degradation of cartilage type II collagen. Previous studies have indicated that miR-144-3p is a useful target in the regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines in different diseases. However, the role of miR-144-3p in OA is unclear. In this study, we observed a negative correlation between miR-144-3p and IL-1 beta expression in OA. miR-144-3p mimic transfection of OA synovial fibroblasts downregulated levels of IL-1 beta expression, while blocking the MAPK, PI3K/Akt, and NF-kappa B signaling pathways relating to IL-1 beta production, and effectively increased miR-144-3p expression in OASFs. Findings from an anterior cruciate ligament transection rat model revealed that administration of miR-144-3p mimic effectively ameliorated OA progression and reduced the numbers of IL-1 beta-positive cells in synovial tissue. This study suggests that miR-144-3p is a useful therapeutic target in OA disease.