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Polymorphic miRNA-mediated gene regulation: contribution to phenotypic variation and disease
Michel Georges1, Wouter Coppieters, Carole Charlier
1Unit of Animal Genomics, GIGA-R and Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, (B34), 1 Avenue de l'Hôpital, 4000-Liège, Belgium. michel.georges@ulg.ac.be
Current Opinion in Genetics & Development
|May 1, 2007
Summary
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression, impacting traits and diseases. DNA variations in miRNA pathways can influence these outcomes, contributing to complex traits and disease susceptibility.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of gene expression, fine-tuning approximately one-third of mammalian genes.
- The RNA silencing machinery, composed of numerous proteins, is essential for miRNA-mediated gene regulation.
- Genetic variations within miRNA pathways can significantly impact biological functions and disease development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the fundamental biology of miRNAs in animals.
- To survey existing evidence linking DNA sequence polymorphisms to miRNA-mediated gene regulation.
- To discuss the potential role of these polymorphisms in complex traits and disease susceptibility.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of miRNA biology.
- Survey of studies investigating DNA polymorphisms in miRNA genes, precursors, and target sites.
- Analysis of evidence connecting genetic variations to phenotypic outcomes.
Main Results:
- A substantial portion of mammalian gene expression is regulated by miRNAs.
- Polymorphisms in miRNA machinery, precursors, and target sites are identified.
- Evidence suggests these polymorphisms can alter miRNA-mediated gene regulation and influence phenotypes.
Conclusions:
- Genetic variations in miRNA pathways are a significant source of phenotypic diversity.
- These variations likely contribute to disease susceptibility and the development of complex traits.
- Further research into miRNA polymorphisms is crucial for understanding human health and disease.
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