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MicroRNAs (or miRs) represent a family of small non-coding regulatory RNAs which play a major role in the control of gene expression by altering protein synthesis at the post-transcriptional level. miR-146a has long been associated with the presence of diabetic foot ulcers.

In this new study, Peng et al. discovered a reduced level of miR-146a in the macrophages of diabetic patients, and that this miR negatively regulates toll-like receptor 4. Through a series of experiments, the group revealed that miR-146a can enhance wound healing in diabetic ulcers through inhibition of the toll-like receptor axis, highlighting a potential new therapeutic target.

Read the full article in Journal of Molecular Endocrinology 69 315–327