Determination of the importance of miR-UL148D gene expression pattern in cytomegalovirus infected transplant patients.

Abstract

Background: MiRNAs are endogenous, small noncoding RNA molecules, 18-22nt in length. HCMV is a ubiquitous and highly specific herpes virus, encoded miRNA, which increases gradually in the presence of infection. HCMV-miR-UL148D is one of the most important miRNA that is encoded by HCMV, which plays a role in the establishment and maintenance of viral latency.

Objectives: The current study aimed to evaluate the expression levels of HCMV-miRUL-148D, in active and inactive transplant patient groups in comparison to healthy individuals

 Materials & Methods: Total RNA was isolated from samples of 60 organ transplant patients and 30 controls, in-house SYBR green Real-time PCR protocols was performed for miRNA and gene.

Results: The expression level of UL-148D gene was significantly higher in the active HCMV infected patients (p= 0.001). The miR-UL148D expression level significantly increased in the inactive HCMV infected patient (p<0.001).

Conclusion: HCMV-miR-UL148D has the potential of being a molecular biomarker for detecting the latent phase of the virus.