Tissue and circulating microRNA influence reproductive function in endometrial disease

microRNA (miRNA) have emerged as important epigenetic modulators of gene expression in diverse pathological and physiological processes. In the endometrium, miRNA appear to have a role in the dynamic changes associated with the menstrual cycle, in implantation and in the pathophysiology associated with reproductive disorders such as recurrent miscarriage and endometriosis. This review explores the role of miRNA in endometrial physiology and endometrial disorders of reproduction and also raises the prospect that circulating miRNA may modulate endometrial function or reflect disordered endometrial activity. The clinical potential to use miRNA in diagnostic tests of endometrial function or in the treatment of endometrial disorders will also be discussed.microRNA are small RNA fragments that suppress the production of specific proteins to alter cell behaviour in a particular way. microRNA are also able to travel in the blood and alter the function of distant cells. microRNA have been identified in endometrial tissues and blood and appear to participate in the cellular alterations associated with implantation, recurrent miscarriage and endometriosis. We are just starting to understand exactly what these small RNA molecules do and how they effect changes in endometrial cells. These molecules may help us diagnose and treat endometrial disorders of reproduction.