Briefing in family characteristics of microRNAs and their applications in cancer research

Biochim Biophys Acta. 2014 Jan;1844(1 Pt B):191-7. doi: 10.1016/j.bbapap.2013.08.002. Epub 2013 Aug 14.

Abstract

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenous, short, non-coding RNA molecules that are directly involved in the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. Dysregulation of miRNAs is usually associated with diseases. Since miRNAs in a family intend to have common functional characteristics, proper assignment of miRNA family becomes heuristic for better understanding of miRNA nature and their potentials in clinic. In this review, we will briefly discuss the recent progress in miRNA research, particularly its impact on protein and its clinical application in cancer research in a view of miRNA family. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Computational Proteomics, Systems Biology & Clinical Implications. Guest Editor: Yudong Cai.

Keywords: Cancer therapy; MicroRNA; miRNA family.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Computational Biology / methods*
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic*
  • Humans
  • MicroRNAs / genetics*
  • Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Proteomics
  • Systems Biology

Substances

  • MicroRNAs