Open AccessMicroRNAs
Author(s) -
Manoj Bhaskaran,
Mahesh Mohan
Publication year - 2013
Publication title -
veterinary pathology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.794
H-Index - 89
eISSN - 1544-2217
pISSN - 0300-9858
DOI - 10.1177/0300985813502820
Subject(s) - microrna , biology , computational biology , small rna , function (biology) , bioinformatics , gene , genetics
The discovery of microRNAs (miRNAs) in 1993 followed by developments and discoveries in small RNA biology have redefined the biological landscape by significantly altering the longstanding dogmas that defined gene regulation. These small RNAs play a significant role in modulation of an array of physiological and pathological processes ranging from embryonic development to neoplastic progression. Unique miRNA signatures of various inherited, metabolic, infectious, and neoplastic diseases have added a new dimension to the studies that look at their pathogenesis and highlight their potential to be reliable biomarkers. Also, altering miRNA functionality and the development of novel in vivo delivery systems to achieve targeted modulation of specific miRNA function are being actively pursued as novel approaches for therapeutic intervention in many diseases. Here we review the current body of knowledge on the role of miRNAs in development and disease and discuss future implications.