MicroRNAs as components of systemic signaling pathways in Drosophila melanogaster

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) ensure progression through development by synchronizing cell fate transitions in response to environmental cues. These cues are mediated at least in part by steroid hormones. Emerging evidence indicates that miRNAs are also components of additional systemic signaling pathways, including insulin, stress, immune, and circadian pathways. Thus, the roles that miRNAs play during development are reflected in their post-developmental functions, where they similarly function to coordinate cell behavior in response to environmental cues. In this review, we summarize current work highlighting the role of miRNAs in systemic signaling pathways in Drosophila melanogaster as a way of synthesizing the underlying roles of miRNAs in both animal developmental transitions and adult physiology.