13 December 2008

miRNA regulates immune system

MicroRNAs (miRNA) are transcribed in the nucleus and exported into the cytoplasm to control gene expression by binding to messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and cleaving or reducing their translational efficiency. They are considered to play a substantial role in gene regulation of cellular proliferation, differentiation, cell fate, apoptosis, signal transduction, and organ development; however, with the numerous miRNA identified scientist still remain to be fully understand their mechanism. miRNA’s role in post-translational modification in addition to other post-transcription modification can express a gene in varying ways, affecting proteins’ conformational fold and function. With this in mind, miRNAs have recently changed the view of immune development and regulation. It has been established that miRNA contribute to immune cell fate, regulation of Toll-like receptor and cytokine response. In addition, miRNAs have been found to contribute to inflammatory diseases., regulate hematopoiesis, immune responses (innate response, T cell activation and differentiation), and antiviral immunity. With the dynamic and complex nature of miRNA, it is hoped miRNA will serve a use as therapy in treating diseases.

Seminars in Cancer Biology
Volume 18, Issue 2, April 2008, Pages 131-140
Postgenetic Oncology - MicroRNA and Cell Proliferation

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