Predictive Value of Serum miR-3150b-3p for Vascular Calcification in Hemodialysis Patients.

BACKGROUND

Vascular calcification (VC) is prevalent among hemodialysis (HD) patients and represents a key factor contributing to high mortality rates. Therefore, there is a need for biomarkers capable of accurately and efficiently diagnosing VC.

AIM: To investigate the predictive value of miR-3150b-3p for VC.

METHODS

Clinically, we recruited 145 HD patients with VC and 120 without VC. Serum levels of miR-3150b-3p were evaluated by RT-qPCR. The predictive value of miR-3150b-3p for VC was assessed using ROC curves and logistic regression models. PTH and osteocalcin levels were measured by ELISA. Target gene prediction was performed using bioinformatics methods.

RESULTS

Noncalcified and calcified HD patients showed significant differences in age, dialysis duration, ALP, calcium, and CRP. Furthermore, miR-3150b-3p was upregulated in the calcified group, with higher levels correlating to more severe calcification. Logistic regression analysis indicated that miR-3150b-3p, age, and CRP were independent risk factors for VC development, with miR-3150b-3p demonstrating good diagnostic performance for VC. Crucially, miR-3150b-3p positively correlated with PTH and osteocalcin levels. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that its target genes were extensively involved in processes such as transcriptional regulation, nervous system development, and cell differentiation. Furthermore, these target genes may participate in pathways including cancer, axon guidance, and thyroid hormone signaling.

CONCLUSION

Overexpressed miR-3150b-3p participated in the VC process of HD patients. Furthermore, it exhibited potential predictive value for VC. Our study provides an alternative diagnostic biomarker for VC.