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Updated: May 9, 2026

Silicon Microchips for Manipulating Cell-cell Interaction

Silicon Microchips for Manipulating Cell-cell Interaction

Published on: August 30, 2007

Cellular functions of the microprocessor.

Sara Macias¹, Ross A Cordiner, Javier F Cáceres

¹MRC Human Genetics Unit, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK.

Biochemical Society Transactions

|July 19, 2013

Summary

The microprocessor complex, including Drosha and DGCR8, has new roles beyond microRNA biogenesis. It regulates diverse cellular RNAs, impacting gene expression and splicing, independent of microRNA function.

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Area of Science:

Molecular Biology
RNA Biology
Gene Regulation

Background:

The microprocessor complex, comprising Drosha and DGCR8, is known for its role in microRNA biogenesis.
Emerging evidence suggests additional functions for microprocessor components beyond microRNA processing.
DGCR8's interaction with various nucleases hints at alternative functional complexes.

Purpose of the Study:

To review the diverse functional roles of the microprocessor complex.
To highlight novel functions of the microprocessor independent of microRNA biogenesis.
To explore the broader regulatory capacity of DGCR8-containing complexes.

Main Methods:

High-throughput sequencing of RNA isolated by cross-linking immunoprecipitation (HITS-CLIP) to identify microprocessor substrates.
Analysis of microprocessor-mediated cleavage of various cellular RNAs.
Investigation of DGCR8's association with other nucleases.

Main Results:

The microprocessor complex binds and regulates a wide array of cellular RNAs.
Microprocessor-mediated RNA cleavage impacts transcript levels and alternative splicing.
These regulatory events occur independently of microRNA (miRNA) function.
DGCR8 can form alternative complexes with other nucleases.

Conclusions:

The microprocessor exhibits diverse functions extending beyond its canonical role in miRNA biogenesis.
DGCR8 is a versatile protein involved in regulating various RNA species and cellular processes.
Understanding these novel roles is crucial for a comprehensive view of gene regulation.