LAUSR

BACKGROUND The current study aims to identify the expression of serum miR-153-3p in knee osteoarthritis (KOA) patients, thereby evaluating its diagnostic value in clinic. METHODS The KOA group was divided into mild group, moderate group, and severe group according to the Kellgren Lawrence (K-L) classification. RT-PCR was used to determine the level of serum miR-153-3p. The relationship between serum miR-153-3p level and C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) was analyzed by Pearson's correlation assay. The possible target gene of miR-153-3p was predicted by TargetScan and validated using dual-luciferase reporter assay. RESULTS The serum miR-153-3p levels of KOA patients in mild, moderate, and severe groups were significantly higher than those in the control group. A positive correlation was found between the serum miR-153-3p level and ESR/CRP levels. ROC analysis showed that serum miR-153-3p could differentiate KOA patients from controls. Based on TargetScan, a conserved binding site was identified in the 3'UTR of SOST and miR-153-3p significantly suppressed the relative luciferase activity of pmirGLO-SOST-3'UTR. Further study showed that the serum SOST levels of patients with KOA were significantly lower than that of the control group. Pearson's correlation assay showed a negative correlation between serum miR-153-3p and serum SOST levels. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, enhanced serum miR-153-3p level promoted the progression of KOA by suppressing SOST. Hence, serum miR-153-3p may be a useful biomarker and therapeutic target in patients with KOA.