Non-coding RNA profiles associated with equine osteoarthritis: a systematic review
Abstract
Introduction: Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) play a role in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA) by regulating gene expression related to inflammation, chondrocyte apoptosis, and extracellular matrix degradation. In horses, OA is a leading cause of lameness and poor performance, with no current treatments halting disease progression and no clear biomarker available. Although some studies have investigated expression profiles of ncRNAs in equine OA, there is a need to systematically review previous efforts and synthesize information to identify potential ncRNAs to target in future research.
Methods: The search strategy was developed using the Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome, Studies (PICOS) framework. A comprehensive search of Scopus, ScienceDirect, CAB Abstracts, BIOSIS Previews, and Web of Science Core Collection identified studies written in English published through June 30, 2025, using comprehensive terms for ncRNAs in equine osteoarthritis. Eligible studies assessed differential ncRNAs expression profiles in natural and experimentally induced OA and control equids. Individual ncRNAs were categorized based on frequency across different studies: 1) identified in three or more samples across studies, 2) identified in two samples across studies or 3) unique to one sample in a single study. Differential expression (log2fold change) with p-values were extracted for each ncRNA and visualized using heatmaps.
Results: Eight studies met the inclusion criteria,…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a systematic review, done in animal, not in people. Its evidence level is 5 of 5 (Very low · case / narrative / animal / in vitro / in silico). Case reports, narrative reviews, and animal, cell or computer-model studies give the weakest evidence for human health.
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