Estimate the Level of MiR-125a-5p and IL-23 in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients

Objective: To evaluate the expression of miR-125a-5p, IL-23, and inflammatory markers in RA patients, assess DAS28 severity, and compare findings with healthy controls to support early diagnosis and treatment. Study Design: Cross-sectional study Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the College of Health and Medical Technology, Middle Technical University, Baghdad Iraq from 1st May 2024 31st October 2024. Methods: One hundred and fifty blood samples, 100 rheumatoid arthritis patients (53 females, 47 males) and 50 healthy controls (28 females, 22 males( were enrolled. RNA was extracted using Trisol; cDNA synthesized and analyzed by real-time PCR using SYBR Green. IL-23 was measured via ELISA. Anti-CCP, RF, and Hs-CRP were analyzed using Cobas e 411, Abbott, and Roche analyzers. Results: miR-125a-5p expression significantly increased in RA patients, severe 11.16±7.28, moderate 6.34±1.29, mild 5.75±2.46 and control 1.0±0.98. IL-23 levels also increased with disease severity Conclusion: Elevated miR-125a-5p and IL-23 levels are linked to RA progression and can aid in diagnosis and disease monitoring.