MicroRNAs: macro challenges on understanding human biological functions and neurological diseases

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Genetics
• Neuroscience

Background:

• MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNA molecules involved in post-transcriptional gene regulation.
• These molecules play critical roles in various biological functions and are implicated in numerous human diseases.
• Dysregulation of miRNA pathways is increasingly recognized as a factor in disease pathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on the miRNA pathway.
• To focus on the link between disrupted miRNA-mediated silencing and the development of neurological disorders.
• To explore the potential of miRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for human pathologies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of current research on miRNA biogenesis and function.
• Analysis of studies investigating the role of miRNA pathway disruption in neurological diseases.
• Examination of emerging therapeutic strategies targeting miRNA pathways.

Main Results:

• MiRNAs are crucial regulators of gene expression through base pairing with target messenger RNAs.
• Aberrant miRNA activity is associated with the pathogenesis of a wide range of human diseases, particularly neurological disorders.
• MiRNAs show promise as diagnostic and prognostic markers.

Conclusions:

• The miRNA pathway is a critical regulatory network whose disruption can lead to disease.
• Understanding miRNA involvement in neurological disorders opens avenues for novel diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.
• Targeting miRNA polymorphisms and mutations offers new perspectives for treating human pathologies.