RNA-based diagnostic innovations: A new frontier in diabetes diagnosis and management
AbstractBackground/Objective: Diabetes mellitus (DM) remains a major global health challenge due to its chronic natureand associated complications. Traditional diagnostic approaches, though effective, often lack the sensitivity requiredfor early-stage detection. Recent advancements in molecular biology have identified RNA molecules, particularly noncoding RNAs such as microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), aspromising biomarkers for diabetes. This review aims to explore the role of RNA-based biomarkers in the diagnosis,prognosis, and management of diabetes, highlighting their potential to revolutionize diabetes care.Method: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, andWeb of Science. Articles published up to 2024 were screened and analyzed to extract relevant findings related to RNAbased diagnostics in diabetes. Emphasis was placed on studies demonstrating clinical utility, mechanistic insights, andtranslational potential of RNA molecules.Results: Numerous RNA species, particularly miRNAs such as miR-375, miR-29, and lncRNAs like H19 and MEG3, exhibitaltered expression patterns in diabetic patients. These molecules are involved in key regulatory pathways of glucose metabolism,insulin resistance, and β-cell function. Circulating RNAs are detectable in various biofluids, enabling non-invasive diagnosticapproaches. Emerging technologies, including RNA sequencing and liquid biopsy platforms, have enhanced the sensitivity andspecificity of RNA detection, fostering the development of novel diagnostic tools and personalized therapeutic strategies.Conclusion: RNA-based biomarkers hold significant promise in advancing early detection, risk stratification, andtherapeutic monitoring in diabetes care. Despite current challenges such as standardization and clinical validation, theintegration of RNA diagnostics into routine clinical practice could transform diabetes management, paving the way forprecision medicine approaches. Further research and multi-center trials are essential to validate these biomarkers andfacilitate their regulatory approval and clinical implementation.