MicroRNAs

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, single-stranded, non-coding RNA molecules that typically contain 21 to 23 nucleotides. They are found in plants, animals, and some viruses and play crucial roles in the regulation of gene expression. Here are the key aspects of microRNAs:

Key Characteristics of MicroRNAs

1. Function: miRNAs regulate gene expression primarily by binding to complementary sequences in messenger RNA (mRNA) molecules. This interaction can lead to:

• Cleavage of the mRNA strand into two pieces.
• Destabilization of the mRNA, which shortens its poly(A) tail.
• Inhibition of translation, preventing the mRNA from being translated into proteins.

1. Biogenesis: The biogenesis of miRNAs involves several steps:

• Transcription of primary miRNA (pri-miRNA) by RNA polymerases.
• Processing of pri-miRNA into precursor miRNA (pre-miRNA) in the nucleus.
• Further cleavage in the cytoplasm to produce mature miRNA.

1. Conservation and Diversity: Many miRNAs are evolutionarily conserved across species, indicating their essential biological functions. It is estimated that a significant portion of protein-coding genes (about 30%) is regulated by miRNAs.
2. Role in Development and Disease: miRNAs are involved in various biological processes, including development, cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Dysregulation of miRNAs has been implicated in numerous diseases, including cancer.
3. Research and Applications: The study of miRNAs has gained importance in biomedical research due to their potential as biomarkers for diseases and therapeutic targets.

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References

For further reading on microRNAs, you can refer to the following sources:

1. MicroRNA – Wikipedia
   This entry provides a comprehensive overview of microRNAs, including their functions, biogenesis, and roles in various biological processes.
   DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2013.05.029
2. MicroRNA: Biogenesis, Function and Role in Cancer – PMC
   This article discusses the biogenesis and functional mechanisms of microRNAs, along with their implications in cancer biology.
   DOI: 10.3390/ijms21040972
3. Overview of MicroRNA Biogenesis, Mechanisms of Actions, and Circulation – NCBI
   This review provides insights into the biogenesis pathways and mechanisms through which microRNAs regulate gene expression and their roles in cell communication.
   DOI: 10.3390/cells8020148