OBJECTIVE To summary the functional roles and molecular mechanisms of microRNA (miRNA) in osteoblast differentiation so as to supply information for basic and clinical researches.
Methods: Recent literature concerning miRNA in osteoblast differentiation was reviewed. The information was classified and summarized.
Results: miRNAs critically regulate bone morphogenetic protein, transforming growth factor beta, and Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathways during osteoblast differentiation. In pathological conditions, especially in some disorders of abnormal osteoblast differentiation, down-regulated miRNA expression has been observed.
Conclusion: miRNA may represent a novel biomarker for diagnosis, and a candidate target therapies for the disorders with abnormal osteoblast differentiation.