How do microRNAs regulate gene expression?

Biochem Soc Trans. 2008 Dec;36(Pt 6):1224-31. doi: 10.1042/BST0361224.

Abstract

miRNAs (microRNAs) are short non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally. They generally bind to the 3'-UTR (untranslated region) of their target mRNAs and repress protein production by destabilizing the mRNA and translational silencing. The exact mechanism of miRNA-mediated translational repression is yet to be fully determined, but recent data from our laboratory have shown that the stage of translation which is inhibited by miRNAs is dependent upon the promoter used for transcribing the target mRNA. This review focuses on understanding how miRNA repression is operating in light of these findings and the questions that still remain.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Gene Expression Regulation*
  • Humans
  • MicroRNAs / metabolism*
  • Peptides / metabolism
  • Promoter Regions, Genetic / genetics
  • Protein Biosynthesis
  • RNA Caps / metabolism

Substances

  • MicroRNAs
  • Peptides
  • RNA Caps