MicroRNAs: Micromanagers for the pathology of age related macular degeneration

Inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis and neovascularization are risky parameters which influence different phases in the pathogenesis of age related macular degeneration (AMD). Beside other mediators, this multitiered and complex event of retinal worsening has been exposed to be orchestrated by small non coding RNA fragments that bind to specific mRNAs and modulate their post transcriptional regulation and gene expression in retina. Several microRNAs (miRNAs) have been revealed which are expressed in retina and influence its functionality. These miRNA fragments play significant role in the development and maintenance of photoreceptors hence, dysregulation of them may augment severe retinal etiopathology. This comprehensive review summarizes the role and relevance of several known miRNAs along with their potential utilities as therapeutic targets in AMD pathogenesis.