MicroRNAs and Polycystic Kidney Disease.

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD), the most common genetic cause of chronic renal failure, is characterized by the presence of numerous fluid-filled cysts in renal parenchyma. Despite recent progress, no FDA-approved therapy is available to retard cyst growth. Here, we review current evidence implicating two groups of miRNAs - the miR-17~92 cluster and miR-200s - in the pathogenesis of PKD. We present a new hypothesis for cyst growth involving miRNAs and regulation of PKD gene dosage. We propose that manipulating miRNA function in an attempt to normalize PKD gene dosage represents a novel therapeutic strategy in PKD.