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Mechanism underlying malformation associated with severe epilepsy is revealed

Researchers identified dysregulation of the gene NEUROG2 as a key factor in the development of focal cortical dysplasia, a common cause of drug-resistant epilepsy. The study found that overexpression of NEUROG2 was linked to reduced expression of microRNA hsa-miR-34a, leading to nerve cell differentiation failure.

Macular degeneration linked to aging immune cells

Research at Washington University School of Medicine found that aging immune cells contribute to inflammation and abnormal blood vessel growth in macular degeneration, potentially leading to vision loss. The study identified microRNA-150 as a potential therapeutic target for preventing progression to advanced forms of the disease.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJCI Insight·DateApr 5, 2018

Programming DNA to deliver cancer drugs

A research team at the University of Delaware has developed technology to program strands of DNA into switches that turn proteins on and off. The technology could lead to the development of new cancer therapies and other drugs by activating non-toxic cancer prodrugs into their therapeutic forms.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMar 19, 2018

Potential RNA Markers of abnormal heart rhythms identified in circulating blood

A study published in Circulation Journal identified four microRNA molecules in the bloodstream that could predict the onset of atrial fibrillation. The researchers found that these microRNAs were significantly upregulated in the serum of patients with AF and diseased mice, suggesting their potential use as biomarkers for disease.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalCirculation Journal·DateMar 15, 2018

MicroRNA could help treat cancer and asthma

Researchers at Purdue University found that microRNA miR-223 can help control inflammatory disease by regulating the NF-kB pathway, which is critical in human bronchial epithelial cells. Supplementing this microRNA to epithelial cells may provide a new treatment option for asthma and cancer.

SourcePurdue University·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 20, 2018

Agricultural parasite takes control of host plant's genes

Researchers discovered that a parasitic plant called Dodder can silence the expression of genes in its host plants, including those involved in defense against parasites. By targeting specific regions of the gene sequence, Dodder regulates the flow of nutrients to itself while preventing the host from producing defensive proteins.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature·DateJan 3, 2018

Penn researchers: An injectable gel that helps heart muscle regenerate after heart attack

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed an injectable gel that slowly releases microRNAs to stimulate heart muscle regeneration. The gel's unique properties allow it to target specific signaling pathways related to cell proliferation, resulting in improved recovery rates and potentially life-prolonging effects.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateNov 29, 2017

MicroRNA helps cancer evade immune system

Researchers at Salk Institute discover two microRNAs that help cancer cells survive and subvert the immune response by lowering cGAS levels. Inhibiting these microRNAs in tumor cells slowed tumor growth, but their effect was diminished in immune-deficient mice.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateSep 18, 2017

Researchers find first genomic biomarkers in extracellular vesicles in veterinary patients

A study by Tufts University researchers found significant changes in miRNA expression levels in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) and congestive heart failure. The study identified new genomic biomarkers, including exosomal miR-181c and miR-495, which could provide insight into diagnosis and therapies for MMVD and human ...

SourceTufts University·JournalJournal of Extracellular Vesicles·DateJul 14, 2017

Fluid in the knee holds clues for why osteoarthritis is more common in females

Studies found significant differences in microRNA cargo carried by exosomes in males and females with osteoarthritis, with females showing more altered biological processes. The findings suggest a link between estrogen levels and the development of osteoarthritis, potentially leading to new diagnostic and treatment options.

Unexpected mechanism behind chronic nerve pain

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have found that a small RNA molecule in sensory neurons regulates how touch is perceived, leading to increased pain sensitivity after nerve damage. The study's results suggest that microRNA-based drugs could be a promising treatment option for chronic nerve pain.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalScience·DateJun 1, 2017

New hope for slow-healing wounds

Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt have developed light-inducible microRNA inhibitors that can target specific genes involved in slow-healing wounds. By injecting these inhibitors into the skin of mice, they were able to improve wound healing by blocking a particular microRNA that is frequently found in diabetes patients.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 19, 2017

Mapping DROSHA's cleavage sites

Researchers developed fCLIP-seq to analyze DROSHA's impact on miRNA fragments, revealing hundreds of new cleavage sites and alternative processing patterns. The study uncovers additional end modifications important for miRNA biogenesis, shedding light on its regulation in diseases like cancer.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalMolecular Cell·DateApr 20, 2017

MicroRNA may reduce stroke risk

Researchers discovered that microRNA-210 reduces plaque instability and improves fibrous cap stability, potentially reducing the risk of stroke. Local application of microRNA-210 is being explored as a safer alternative to systemic administration, which could minimize side effects.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalCirculation Research·DateApr 13, 2017

Researchers aim to disrupt egg production in dengue- and Zika-spreading mosquito

A team of scientists at UC Riverside has identified five major microRNA expression peaks in the Aedes aegypti fat body following a blood meal. By disrupting these miRNAs, researchers hope to control mosquito reproduction and prevent the spread of diseases transmitted by these mosquitoes. The study provides insight into the regulatory g...

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 22, 2017