Exploring miR-16-5p and Biochemical Markers as Potential Noninvasive Indicators of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a growing global health concern, associated with significant maternal and fetal complications. Despite routine screening protocols, current diagnostic methods remain invasive and suboptimal. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), such as miR-16-5p, have emerged as promising noninvasive biomarkers for metabolic disorders, including GDM.
Objective: This study aimed to assess the differential expression of circulating miR-16-5p in women with GDM and investigate its correlation with key biochemical markers involved in glucose metabolism, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 80 pregnant women (40 with GDM, 40 healthy controls) were recruited from a tertiary care center. Biochemical markers—fasting glucose, serum insulin, IGF-1, IGFBP-1, TNF-α, and GPX—were measured via ELISA. miR-16-5p expression was quantified using qRT-PCR and analyzed using the 2^–ΔΔCt method. Group comparisons and correlation analyses were performed using non-parametric tests. Results: miR-16-5p expression was significantly upregulated in the GDM group (3.25 ± 0.96-fold, p < 0.001). GDM participants also exhibited elevated fasting glucose and insulin levels, and decreased IGF-1, IGFBP-1, TNF-α, and GPX levels compared to controls. In GDM subjects, miR-16-5p positively correlated with fasting glucose (r = 0.411, p = 0.008) and inversely with GPX (r = –0.450, p = 0.004). Conclusion: miR-16-5p shows promise as a noninvasive biomarker for GDM, reflecting alterations in glucose regulation and oxidative stress. Its integration into early diagnostic strategies may improve maternal-fetal outcomes. Further longitudinal and mechanistic studies are warranted.