MicroRNAs with a role in gene regulation and in human diseases

Mol Biol Rep. 2014 Jan;41(1):225-32. doi: 10.1007/s11033-013-2855-1. Epub 2013 Nov 6.

Abstract

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short 20-22 nucleotide non-coding RNA sequences. Recently identified, these are novel regulators of gene expression at translational level as well as transcriptional level. Alteration in miRNAs level has been observed in a number of human diseases and studies have been conducted on the effect of altered expression level of miRNAs on the development and progression of different diseases. The miRNAs can be used as molecular biomarkers in a number of diseases. Also, miRNAs are promising in providing a new platform for molecular therapeutics of previously incurable diseases. This review will focus on the introduction, recent advances in the field of miRNA and its importance in some human disorders.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Autoimmune Diseases / genetics
  • Autoimmune Diseases / metabolism
  • Biomarkers / metabolism
  • Gene Expression
  • Humans
  • MicroRNAs / genetics*
  • MicroRNAs / metabolism
  • Neoplasms / genetics
  • Neoplasms / metabolism
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases / genetics
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases / metabolism
  • RNA Interference*

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • MicroRNAs