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Updated: Jun 6, 2026
06:16
mirMachine: A One-Stop Shop for Plant miRNA Annotation
Published on: May 1, 2021
miRNA*: a passenger stranded in RNA-induced silencing complex?
S M Mah1, C Buske, R K Humphries
1Terry Fox Laboratory, BC Cancer Agency, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V5Z 1L3.
Critical Reviews in Eukaryotic Gene Expression
|December 8, 2010
Summary
MicroRNA* (miRNA*) strands, once thought inactive, are now recognized for their significant regulatory roles. This review explores their underestimated abundance, function, and physiological relevance in gene regulation.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Biochemistry
Background:
- MicroRNA duplexes are generated from pre-microRNA by Dicer1.
- MicroRNA* (miRNA*) strands are typically considered passenger strands with no regulatory function.
- Recent evidence suggests miRNA*s may be more abundant and functionally relevant than previously believed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of miRNA* origination and activity.
- To highlight emerging evidence for unique miRNA* functions and regulatory mechanisms.
- To provide examples of specific miRNA*s from scientific literature.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent publications on miRNA*s.
- Analysis of studies investigating miRNA* abundance and function.
- Compilation of case examples of miRNA* regulatory roles.
Main Results:
- miRNA*s originate from the miRNA duplex processing.
- Evidence indicates miRNA*s possess distinct biological functions.
- Specific miRNA*s demonstrate significant regulatory activity in various contexts.
Conclusions:
- The regulatory potential of miRNA*s is substantial and warrants further investigation.
- miRNA*s represent a significant, previously underestimated layer of gene regulation.
- Future research should focus on elucidating the full scope of miRNA* functions and therapeutic applications.
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