MicroRNAs are Overexpressed in Acne Lesions and Acne-associated Atrophic Scarring

Three microRNAs (miRNAs) were identified as being overexpressed in acne lesions and clinically uninvolved skin in participants prone to scarring.

Researchers aimed to establish a miRNA signature for acne and acne-associated atrophic scarring. They also identified whether a pattern of circulating miRNA is evident in patients who are prone to scarring.

The study recruited 41 participants and quantified circulating miRNA from plasma samples in all participants. In 9 patients, whole microRNAome was undertaken from tissue specimens including lesional, normal, and scarred skin.

The miRNAs miR-223, miR-21, and miR-150 were overexpressed in acne lesions and in clinically uninvolved skin participants prone to scarring. Elevated levels of circulating miRNA-21 and miRNA-150 were found in the subgroup.

“The presence of elevated levels of these specific miRNAs in the serum of patients with acne raises the potential of a blood test to identify those at risk of scarring, allowing for earlier intervention with effective therapy,” concluded the study authors.

Reference
Ghumra W, Lee N, Whitehouse H, Bhutani R, Lagos D, Layton AM. MicroRNAs as biomarkers of atrophic scarring in acne; a cross-sectional analysis of 41 patients. Clin Exp Dermatol. Published online June 8, 2021. doi:10.1111/ced.14792