Abstract
The aim of the present study was to summarize what is known about the role of microRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) in relation to hypospadias. Therefore, a systematic review was performed by consulting the electronic databases, MEDLINE (PubMed) and Embase. The search strategy consisted of both MeSH and free text terms, including hypospadias AND miRNA. Only articles written in the English language were included. In the selection process, three authors assessed the studies defined through the search strategy based on titles and abstracts. The authors then analyzed the complete articles and selected studies conforming to the eligibility criteria. Studies that did not align with the adopted criteria were excluded based on the limits set by the initial search strategy: Publication details, study design and participant characteristics. Articles presenting original data on miRNAs associated with hypospadias and including information on miRNA detection and analysis methods were extracted from the selected articles. The included studies presented miRNA extraction from blood samples, preputial or penile tissues, urethral epithelium and/or foreskin fibroblasts. The compiled data focused on the regulatory role of miR-494, miR-145, miR-6756-5p, miR-182, miR-200c, miR-210 and miR-1199-5p in vital cell biological processes, such as wound healing, and cell proliferation, growth and apoptosis. These results proposed that miRNAs may serve as key molecules that merit further investigation; for instance, they may be used as potential biomarkers, diagnostic markers and, eventually, as pharmaceutical agents in hypospadias.