Regulatory role of miR-128-2-5p in serum exosomes on COL6A2 expression and postmenopausal osteoporosis

This study investigates the influence of miR-128-2-5p within serum-derived exosomes (Exos) on COL6A2 expression and its implications in postmenopausal osteoporosis (POMP). Utilizing bioinformatics analysis, we identified 1317 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), primarily enriched in the focal adhesion pathway-a critical regulator of osteoblast adhesion. A significant gene, COL6A2, emerged as notably downregulated in POMP, possessing potential as a diagnostic marker. Predictive analysis linked the upstream miRNA miR-128-2-5p, highly enriched in Exos, with the regulation of COL6A2. Experimentally, Exos from POMP patients demonstrated elevated miR-128-2-5p levels, which inhibited COL6A2 expression in vitro, reducing osteoblast adhesion and exacerbating osteoporotic conditions. These findings highlight the pivotal role of exosomal miR-128-2-5p in bone metabolism, suggesting a novel molecular mechanism and a potential therapeutic target in POMP.