New results indicate that targeting a specific microRNA (miR-210) with a drug that could be used topically on the skin might offer new strategies for treating chronic wounds, which are sometimes fatal and cost the U.S. health-care system an estimated $25 billion annually. Ohio State University researchers have discovered, in a new animal study, that the presence of miR-210 in wounds with limited blood flow lowers the production of a protein (E2F3) that is needed to encourage skin cells to grow and close over the wound. In a parallel experiment using human skin cells, the researchers silenced the miR-210 with an experimental drug and saw E2F3 protein levels rise. The skin cells multiplied as a result. The research involved wounds that are ischemic, that is, they heal very slowly or are in danger of never healing because they lack blood flow and oxygen at the wound site. These types of wounds affect approximately 6.5 million patients each year, and are common complications of diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and other conditions characterized by poor vascular health. "When blood supply is inadequate, many things are deficient at the wound site, including oxygen. That leads to a condition called hypoxia," said Dr. Chandan Sen, senior author of the study. "We have shown that hypoxia induces miR-210, which actually blocks the ability of the cells to proliferate, a step necessary for the wound-closure process.” This research was published online on March 22, 2010 in PNAS. [Press release] [PNAS abstract]Login Or Register To Read Full Story