The complex world of kidney microRNAs

MicroRNAs are short noncoding RNAs that usually reduce translation of messenger RNAs. Changes in microRNA-192 (miR-192) are reported in states of renal fibrosis. New evidence supports a role for miR-192 and its target miR-200b/c in transforming growth factor-β1 regulation of its own expression and that of collagens in mesangial cells, with a possible role in diabetic nephropathy. As there is controversy on the role of these microRNAs in diabetic nephropathy, more work is needed.