The Role of MicroRNAs in HIV Infection

Abstract

MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a class of small, non-coding RNAs, play a pivotal role in regulatinggene expression at the post-transcriptional level. These regulatory molecules are integral to manybiological processes and have been implicated in the pathogenesis of various diseases, includingHuman Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection. This review aims to cover the current understandingof the multifaceted roles miRNAs assume in the context of HIV infection and pathogenesis. Thediscourse is structured around three primary focal points: (i) elucidation of the mechanisms throughwhich miRNAs regulate HIV replication, encompassing both direct targeting of viral transcripts andindirect modulation of host factors critical for viral replication; (ii) examination of the modulationof miRNA expression by HIV, mediated through either viral proteins or the activation of cellularpathways consequent to viral infection; and (iii) assessment of the impact of miRNAs on the immuneresponse and the progression of disease in HIV-infected individuals. Further, this review delves intothe potential utility of miRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic agents in HIV infection, underscoringthe challenges and prospects inherent to this line of inquiry. The synthesis of current evidencepositions miRNAs as significant modulators of the host-virus interplay, offering promising avenuesfor enhancing the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of HIV infection.