hsa-miR-885-5p As Post Transcription Regulator of Matrix metalloproteinase 9 in Tuberculous Meningitis

Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) has a potent role in neuroinflammation in tuberculous meningitis (TBM). Recent researches have highlighted the regulation of MMP9 levels by microRNAs, thereby altering their level and affecting critical functions, such as blood-brain barrier integrity. In this study, the activity of MMP9 was assessed by gelatin zymography, and the expression of hsa-miR-885-5p was evaluated by qRT-PCR in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of TBM patients and healthy controls (HC). MMP9 expression was observed in the CSF of TBM patients only and none in HC. Additionally, hsa-miR-885-5p expression was significantly downregulated in TBM patients compared to healthy controls. These findings suggest that the dysregulation of hsa-miR-885-5p may lead to altered MMP9 levels in TBM patients, contributing to neuroinflammation. Therefore, targeting these microRNAs could serve as a new treatment modality to combat neuroinflammation in TBM patients.