Prognostic value of microRNA assessment in cervical epithelial cells of patients with mild dysplasia

Background. Currently, there are no reliable markers for the prognosis of the low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) of the cervical epithelium. Scientific literature provides with inconsistent recommendations regarding the management of the young patients with a cytological diagnosis of LSIL. The progression of cervical dysplasia and the development of cervical cancer are associated with characteristic alterations of the microRNA expression profile.

Objective: to assess the prognostic value of microRNA in LSIL. Materials and methods. Samples (cytological smears) obtained from patients diagnosed with LSIL (n = 36), but with a different course of the disease over the next 6–12 months. Analysis of miRNA expression was carried out by the method of “two-tailed” reverse transcription and subsequent PCR.

Results. The expression level of miR-126, miR-21, miR-1246, miR-182 was statistically significantly different in the compared groups, but the predictive value of the analysis of individual molecules was low (AUC <0.65). Calculation of the concentration ratios of the “reciprocal” pairs of microRNAs made it possible to obtain a more effective prognostic marker. ROC analysis of such ratios (miR-126/miR-182, miR-21/miR-182, miR-1246/miR-182) yielded AUC values: 0.82–0.89, sensitivity: 0.71–0.92; specificity: 0.86.

Conclusions. Analysis of a panel of microRNA marker molecules in the material of the cervical epithelium and calculation of the concentration ratios of “reciprocal” pairs is a promising method for prognosis of LSIL course. 

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