Single microRNA fine-tunes innate immune response
Scientists discovered microRNA-223, which controls the production and activation of granulocytes in the innate immune response. Absence of microRNA-223 increased tissue inflammation and damage.
Microrna
Articles tagged with Microrna
Dartmouth researchers find the root of the evolutionary emergence of vertebrates
Researchers at Dartmouth College have discovered that microRNAs played a crucial role in the emergence of vertebrates, with diverse regulatory mechanisms driving genome assembly. The study's findings suggest that these tiny molecules were responsible for the origin of unique organs such as the liver, pancreas, and brain.
Oregon researchers discover a mechanism leading to cleft palate
Researchers at the University of Oregon have discovered a previously unknown mechanism for cleft palate, a common birth defect. By studying a genetic mutation in zebrafish, they found that microRNA Mirn140 regulates the expression of Pdgf, a growth factor involved in cell signaling.
Molecules may help predict survival in liver cancer
A study published in Clinical Cancer Research found that patients with poor disease-free survival had lower levels of specific microRNAs compared to those with better survival rates. The researchers hope that restoring these microRNAs could lead to improved treatment options for liver cancer patients.
Expression patterns of microRNAs appear altered in colon cancer, and associated with poor outcomes
A study found that microRNA expression patterns are differentially expressed in colon tumor tissues, with certain miRNAs associated with poor survival and treatment outcomes. The researchers identified miR-21 as a potential diagnostic biomarker for colon adenocarcinomas and survival prognosis.
The RNA drug revolution -- a new approach to gene therapy
RNA interference represents an innovative strategy for silencing specific genes associated with disease processes, and a series of review articles will focus on its potential therapeutic applications. The technology has been approved for at least six clinical trials and is considered to be here to stay.
Molecules might identify high-risk acute-leukemia patients
A study found that two microRNAs, miR-191 and miR-199a, are associated with patient survival in high-risk acute-leukemia patients. These molecules may serve as targets for future therapies, offering hope for patients with limited treatment options.
MIT reports new twist in microRNA biology
Researchers identified two microRNA pairs in fruit fly and eight more in mouse where both DNA strands encode RNA products, which fold into hairpins that are processed into mature microRNAs. This discovery builds on earlier findings about microRNA regulation using computational tools to investigate genomes of multiple species.
Making sense of antisense microRNAs
Research reveals antisense transcription of the Hox miRNA locus generates a novel miRNA precursor, mir-iab-8, which represses Hox gene targets, resulting in homeotic phenotypes. Additional antisense miRNAs identified in Drosophila and mammals may contribute to diversification of miRNA function.
University of Pennsylvania researchers zero in on the tiniest members in the war on cancer
Researchers have found that the Myc protein can stop the production of at least 13 microRNAs, which help control gene expression. Re-introducing repressed miRNAs into cancer cells suppressed tumor growth in mice, raising hopes for a novel therapy approach.
Silencing small but mighty cancer inhibitors
A research team has discovered that the Myc protein can suppress the production of at least 13 microRNAs in cancer cells. Reintroducing these repressed miRNAs into Myc-containing cancer cells suppressed tumor growth in mice, suggesting a potential gene therapy approach for certain cancers.
Scientists discover new role for miRNA in leukemia
A new study reveals microRNAs can directly control a protein's function, preventing immature blood cells from maturing and contributing to the development of blast-crisis CML. Altering microRNA levels may represent a potential therapeutic strategy for CML patients who don't respond to targeted agents.
UC Davis researchers identify a cellular pathway that makes prostate cancer fatal
Researchers at UC Davis identified a cellular pathway involving microRNA miR-125b that contributes to the progression of prostate cancer. The discovery provides a potential target for reducing cancer deaths among American men.
SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 27, 2007
Blind mice shed light on human sight loss
A study published in Genome Biology uncovers a link between microRNA expression and retinal degeneration, potentially leading to new therapies for incurable forms of sight loss. Researchers used mutant mice that model the human eye disease retinitis pigmentosa, finding altered microRNA expression patterns.
Massive microRNA scan uncovers leads to treating muscle degeneration
Researchers discovered microRNAs linked to 10 major muscular disorders, opening doors to new treatments. The study found that targeting specific microRNAs may slow muscle loss by addressing the underlying biological processes.
SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 17, 2007
MicroRNAs may be key to HIV's ability to hide, evade drugs, Jefferson scientists find
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University found that HIV recruits cellular miRNA to control viral RNA translation, allowing the virus to remain dormant. Manipulating miRNA's inhibitory effect on HIV may lead to new treatment strategies against the virus.
Team demos safety of RNA therapy
Researchers from MIT and Alnylam Pharmaceuticals have shown that siRNA does not interfere with the microRNA pathway, achieving 80% silencing of target genes in mice and hamster liver cells. This approach could lead to treatments for a wide range of diseases.
MicroRNA convicted of triggering metastasis
A recent study shows that overabundance of a single microRNA, microRNA-10b, can cause tumors to spread to distant tissues in mice. Researchers found that this microRNA disrupts the normal migration process of cancer cells by targeting the HoxD10 gene.
Bits of 'junk' RNA aid master tumor-suppressor gene
A recent study from Michigan Medicine researchers reveals that specific 'junk' RNA genes, known as microRNA34, work with the protective gene p53 to regulate cell growth and prevent cancer. The loss of these microRNAs is linked to common lung cancer.
Molecule blocks gene, sheds light on liver cancer
Research reveals how microRNA miR-21 helps cancer develop by blocking tumor-suppressor gene PTEN. High levels of miR-21 are found in many kinds of cancer cells, providing a potential marker for patient prognosis.
MicroRNA conflict resolution
Researchers developed a cell-free system to investigate microRNA function, providing unprecedented insight into how miRNAs repress translation. The study resolves the current conflict over miRNA action by showing that miRNAs recruit complexes containing Ago2 and GW182 proteins.
MicroRNA works with Ago2 protein to regulate blood cell development
Researchers found that microRNA levels are crucial for maintaining homeostasis during blood cell development, but not the 'slicer' activity of Ago2 protein. The study suggests that low levels of microRNA have distinct effects on different blood cell lineages.
Small molecules may explain psoriasis
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet discovered that microRNA molecules, specifically miR-203, are significantly upregulated in psoriasis and may be involved in regulating keratinocytes. This study suggests that microRNA therapies could become more effective than traditional medicines targeting individual proteins.
Ago2 and hematopoiesis
Researchers found Ago2 necessary for normal blood cell development, but its role is independent of slicer activity. Ago2 regulates miRNA biogenesis in blood cells through translational control.
Penn researchers discover how microRNAs control protein synthesis
Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have discovered that miRNAs regulate gene expression by associating with the Argonaute2 (Ago2) protein. This interaction inhibits protein production, highlighting a crucial role for Ago2 in the miRNA pathway.
A small leak will sink a great ship
Researchers found a small molecule, microRNA, essential for controlling floral organs' identity in plants. This discovery contradicts the long-held ABC model of floral organ development, suggesting a more complex temporal control mechanism.
New genetic marker characterizes aggressiveness of cancer cells
Researchers at the University of Chicago discovered a new genetic marker called let-7, which appears to define different stages of cancer. The study found that high levels of let-7 expression are associated with less aggressive cancer, while low levels are linked to poor prognosis.
SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 25, 2007
Study shows big power of small RNAs, not just proteins, in halting cancer
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory identified a family of micro RNAs (miRNAs) that enable the p53 pathway to fight cancer growth. By comparing levels of miRNAs in cells with various pre-cancerous genetic lesions, they found a connection between changes in the p53 pathway and the loss of specific miRNAs, such as miR-34.
Common cancer gene sends death order to tiny killer
Researchers found that the p53 gene activates microRNA miR-34a, which kills cells with damaged genes. This microRNA plays a crucial role in stopping tumor development and is often missing in pancreatic cancer cells.
Tiny genes may increase cancer susceptibility, Jefferson scientists find
Studies found that small pieces of genetic material known as miRNAs are more likely to be located near genes affecting cancer susceptibility. This discovery could lead to new insights into cancer risk and potentially inform the development of targeted therapies.
SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 23, 2007
Mechanism of microRNAs deciphered
MicroRNAs regulate cell division and development by blocking protein synthesis at its earliest stage, translation. Researchers developed a new method to study microRNA action in a test tube, revealing that they bind to messenger RNAs and prevent their translation into proteins.
Newly identified mechanism for silencing genes points to possible anti-cancer strategies
Scientists have discovered a novel gene-silencing mechanism that blocks cellular machinery responsible for protein production. This mechanism, involving microRNAs and ribosome interference, has implications for anti-cancer interventions and may be conserved across species.
UF scientists identify cancer virus' genetic targets
University of Florida researchers have identified specific human genes targeted by the Kaposi's sarcoma virus, which is believed to cause rare forms of cancer. The virus uses microRNAs to silence genes that suppress tumor cells and blood vessel growth, resulting in the characteristic red spots on patients' skin.
Pancreatic cancer markers identified, may predict survival
Researchers at Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center have discovered a way to distinguish pancreatic cancer from non-cancerous tissue using microRNA molecules. The study found that specific miRNAs can predict patient survival rates, with correlations seen in just a few miRNAs that were not previously associated with the dis...
Jefferson pharmacologist says biomarker discovery bodes well for better cancer diagnostics
A new study identified genetic markers that can distinguish between chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer, as well as predict patient outcomes. The discovery represents a significant advancement in cancer diagnostics and may lead to improved therapy options.
Molecular marker may help identify pancreatic cancer, and possibly predict survival time
Scientists discovered a global expression pattern of microRNAs that can differentiate between pancreatic cancer and normal pancreas with high accuracy. The study found that specific miRNA expressions were associated with long-term survival and poor prognosis, offering potential for personalized treatment.
Unicellular microRNA discovery
The discovery of microRNAs in the unicellular green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii expands our understanding of small RNA regulation and challenges existing dogma. The researchers found functional characteristics between plant and animal miRNAs, suggesting a potential role in regulating sexual reproduction.
Minuscule molecules pack a powerful punch
A microRNA in mouse immune cells is shown to balance the response of immune defenses, with its equivalent human gene playing a vital role. Knockout mice develop autoimmune symptoms and are less resistant to bacterial infections, highlighting the importance of this microRNA in the immune system.
MicroRNAs can be tumor suppressors
Researchers at University of Virginia Health System discovered microRNAs can suppress HMGA2 overexpression, a key feature of many tumors. This finding suggests microRNAs may have a role in preventing or curing diet-induced obesity-related diseases.
MicroRNAs as tumor suppressors
Researchers found that microRNA let-7 binds to HMGA2 mRNA transcript, suppressing its expression and preventing tumorigenesis. This establishes HMGA2 as a target of let-7, highlighting the potential role of microRNAs in cancer prevention.
Gladstone scientists identify critical gene factor in heart development
Researchers at Gladstone Institute of Cardiovascular Disease identified a critical genetic factor, microRNA miR-1-2, that regulates heart form and function. The study found that deletion of this microRNA causes defects in heart growth, function, and electrical conduction, potentially leading to new treatments for cardiovascular diseases.
Brain tissue reveals possible genetic trigger for schizophrenia
A study led by Dr. Diana Perkins identified lower levels of microRNAs in the brains of adults with schizophrenia compared to healthy individuals. The research suggests that altered expression of microRNAs may be involved in the development of schizophrenia, potentially related to disordered synaptic plasticity.
Leukemia drug turns mini-molecules up, cancer genes down
Researchers found that vitamin A derivative ATRA increases levels of miRNA-15b and miRNA-16-1, which inhibit Bcl-2 gene activity. This helps explain how the drug works by regulating genes that need to be silenced for cell differentiation.
MicroRNA helps prevent tumors
Researchers from the Whitehead Institute have discovered that a specific microRNA helps prevent tumor formation by regulating the Hmga2 gene. In mice with compromised immune systems, cells expressing Hmga2 with disrupted let-7 sites developed tumors, highlighting a new mechanism for cancer formation.
Killing the messenger RNA -- But which one?
Researchers at The Wistar Institute discovered that microRNAs can undergo molecular editing, redirecting them to target and silence entirely different sets of genes. This process has significant physiological consequences, such as altering the production of essential enzymes involved in synthesizing uric acid.
Xie Lab demonstrates the role of microRNA pathway
The Xie Lab has demonstrated that the microRNA pathway is essential for controlling self-renewal of germline and somatic stem cells in Drosophila ovaries. Understanding this mechanism could lead to developing new methods for expanding stem cell populations for tissue repair.
Master switches found for adult blood stem cells
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine identified a core set of 33 microRNAs that regulate adult blood-forming stem cells. These 'master switches' can be targeted to control when stem cells grow into new blood cells, offering potential for new treatments for cancer and bone marrow disorders.
Micro molecules can identify pancreatic cancer
Researchers have identified a unique pattern of microRNAs in pancreatic tumor tissue, suggesting a new way to diagnose and treat the disease. The findings may lead to more effective early detection and treatment of pancreatic cancer.
Renegade RNA -- Clues to cancer and normal growth
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have discovered a tiny piece of genetic code, miR-29b, that moves far away from the cell's protein-making machinery. This finding reveals that microRNAs contain hidden elements that control their behavior in cells, opening up new possibilities for gene regulation and cancer research.
MicroRNAs, alternative splicing and the muscle proteome
Researchers discovered that microRNA miR-133 targets the alternative splicing factor nPTB during early myogenesis, promoting muscle cell differentiation. This regulation affects a larger temporal program of muscle cell gene expression by altering mRNA splicing.
Pair of microRNA molecules controls major oncogene in most common leukemia
Two microRNAs, miR-29 and miR-181, have been found to control the expression of the TCL1 oncogene responsible for aggressive forms of B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia. High levels of these miRNAs suppress TCL1 expression, while low levels correlate with more aggressive cancer.
Peering into the shadow world of RNA
Research suggests that non-coding RNA forms interact with each other and genes to manage the genome, influencing processes like embryonic development and cancer formation. The discovery of RNA editing mechanisms, such as ADAR and microRNAs, reveals a subtle level of genome control.
Micro molecules contribute mightily to heart problem
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center discovered that tiny RNA molecules, called microRNAs, play a significant role in causing heart enlargement and increasing the risk of heart failure. By manipulating these microRNAs, it may be possible to treat heart disease.
SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 13, 2006
University of Iowa scientists explore function of 'junk DNA'
Researchers uncover that junk DNA can generate microRNAs, regulating protein production, contradicting previous assumptions. The discovery expands our understanding of functional genomics and sheds light on the mysterious role of non-coding sequences in human development and disease.
New biomarkers for lupus found
Researchers at Wake Forest University School of Medicine have identified micro-ribonucleic acids (micro-RNAs) as potential biomarkers for lupus. The study found significant differences in micro-RNA expression between lupus patients and healthy controls, with certain micro-RNAs linked to histone deacetylases and the development of lupus.
Penn researchers find role for microRNAs in angiogenesis
Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine identified the role of microRNAs in promoting blood vessel growth, a process called angiogenesis. The findings suggest that these microRNAs might be targeted to slow down cancer cell growth.
MicroRNA processing and cancer
Drosha activity plays a fundamental regulatory step in microRNA processing. Blocking this enzyme can suppress miRNA production in cancer cells. This discovery may lead to novel therapeutic strategies for treating cancer by understanding the molecular events of carcinogenesis.
miRNA-mediated silencing of mRNAs
Researchers discover miRNAs silence genes through two independent mechanisms: repression of translation and induction of mRNA degradation. This finding resolves controversy over whether miRNAs affect mRNA levels.
Activation of microRNA inhibits cancer gene in human cancer cells
Researchers found that epigenetic treatment can induce microRNA-127, which downregulates the proto-oncogene BCL6. This may have an anticancer effect. Further studies are necessary to understand the regulation of miRNA expression in cancer.
Infected for life
A research team led by Professor Nigel W. Fraser discovered that herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) produces an miRNA molecule encoded by the LAT gene. This miRNA works through RNA interference to prevent normal cell death, maintaining latent infection for life. The study offers a new target for treatment against latent infections.