Gene Expression Analysis of miR-142-3p/BMAL1/PPARA and miR-24-3p/PER2/PPARG Pathways: Insights into the Link between Short Sleep Duration and Obesity in Humans

Short sleep duration (SSD) is a recognized risk factor for obesity, yet the underlying molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. This study investigates the expression of key microRNAs (miR-142-3p and miR-24-3p), their respective regulatory targets (BMAL1 and PER2), and the downstream targets of these genes (PPARA and PPARG), to elucidate potential pathways linking SSD and obesity. Gene expression levels were analyzed by qRT-PCR and in four groups of participants: normal sleepers with normal weight (Group A), normal sleepers with obesity (Group B), short sleepers with normal weight (Group C), and short sleepers with obesity (Group D). Results revealed significant upregulation of miR-142-3p (p < 0.05) and corresponding downregulation of BMAL1 (p < 0.05) across all experimental groups compared to controls. PPARA, a downstream target of BMAL1, was significantly downregulated only in obese groups (A vs. B, p = 0.019, and C vs. D, p = 0.004). Similarly, miR-24-3p expression was significantly elevated in SSD and obesity groups (p < 0.05), leading to suppression of PER2 (p < 0.05). Notably, PPARG expression was upregulated in SSD groups (p < 0.05) and obese participants only in the context of SSD (C vs. D, p = 0.039). These results highlight a distinct role for the miR-24-3p/PER2/PPARG pathway and also limited involvement of the miR-142-3p/BMAL1/PPARA axis in SSD-associated obesity. Future research should explore the downstream pathways of BMAL1 and interventional strategies to restore circadian and metabolic homeostasis.