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Molecular mechanisms of peripheral nerve regeneration: emerging roles of microRNAs

Di Wu1, Alexander K Murashov

  • 1Department of Physiology, East Carolina University Greenville, NC, USA ; Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine Philadelphia, PA, USA.

Frontiers in Physiology
|April 5, 2013
PubMed

Insights

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of gene expression. This review explores how miRNAs promote peripheral nerve regeneration by shifting neurons towards a regenerative state after injury.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs regulating gene expression.
  • miRNAs are implicated in various nervous system physiological and pathological processes.
  • Peripheral nerve regeneration involves complex cellular and molecular mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current knowledge on miRNA mechanisms in peripheral nerve regeneration.
  • To highlight the role of altered miRNA expression in promoting neuronal survival and regeneration.
  • To identify future research directions for miRNA-based therapies.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on miRNA expression and function in nerve injury models.
  • Analysis of cellular and molecular mechanisms of miRNA-mediated post-transcriptional regulation.
  • Synthesis of evidence linking miRNA changes to neuronal regenerative phenotypes.

Main Results:

  • miRNA expression profiles change significantly following peripheral nerve injury.
  • These expression changes facilitate neuronal survival and promote a shift towards regeneration.
  • miRNAs mediate post-transcriptional regulation crucial for the regenerative process.

Conclusions:

  • miRNAs play a critical role in peripheral nerve regeneration.
  • Targeting miRNA machinery presents a promising therapeutic avenue for nerve injuries.
  • Further research is needed to fully elucidate miRNA-mediated mechanisms and therapeutic potential.
Keywords:
RNAimiRNAnerve injurynerve regenerationtranslational regulation

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