The Association Between microRNAs and the Diagnosis and Prognosis of Cerebral Malaria

Objective The aim of the study was to determine the usefulness of microRNAs of human origin as potential biomarkers of cerebral malaria. Methods We conducted this review on the Cochrane and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses Statement recommendations. We carried out a search strategy through MEDLINE, Embase, LILACS and CENTRAL from 2000 to the present. Results We found that at least two studies on Plasmodium falciparum cerebral malaria reported an increased expression of miR-150 in the affected individuals. Conclusions microRNAs could be useful as potential biomarkers for diagnosing cerebral and complicated malaria. miR-150 has the most significant potential as a biomarker, especially for infections caused by P. falciparum .