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Published on: May 1, 2018
Dietary RNAs: New Stories Regarding Oral Delivery
Jian Yang1, Kendal D Hirschi2,3, Lisa M Farmer4
1United States Department of Agriculture/Agriculture Research Service, Children's Nutrition Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA. jiany@bcm.edu.
Abstract:
microRNAs (miRNAs), a class of small RNAs, are important regulators of various developmental processes in both plants and animals. Several years ago, a report showed the detection of diet-derived plant miRNAs in mammalian tissues and their regulation of mammalian genes, challenging the traditional functions of plant miRNAs. Subsequently, multiple efforts have attempted to replicate these findings, with the results arguing against the uptake of plant dietary miRNAs in healthy consumers. Moreover, several reports suggest the potential for "false positive" detection of plant miRNAs in human tissues. Meanwhile, some research continues to suggest both the presence and function of dietary miRNAs in mammalian tissues. Here we review the recent literature and discuss the strengths and weaknesses of emerging work that suggests the feasibility of dietary delivery of miRNAs. We also discuss future experimental approaches to address this controversial topic.
Insights
Dietary plant microRNAs (miRNAs) may not be absorbed by humans, despite initial claims. Current research debates their presence and function in mammalian tissues, necessitating further investigation.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Nutrition Science
Background:
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small RNA molecules regulating gene expression in plants and animals.
- Initial reports suggested diet-derived plant miRNAs could enter mammalian tissues and affect gene regulation.
- Subsequent studies have cast doubt on the uptake and function of plant miRNAs in healthy humans.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent literature on the feasibility of dietary miRNA delivery.
- To critically evaluate evidence supporting and refuting the presence and function of dietary miRNAs in mammals.
- To discuss future experimental strategies for resolving this controversy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating plant miRNA uptake in mammalian systems.
- Analysis of methodologies used in detecting and quantifying dietary miRNAs.
- Synthesis of conflicting findings regarding miRNA bioavailability and function.
Main Results:
- Multiple replication attempts have failed to confirm the uptake of plant miRNAs in healthy individuals.
- Concerns regarding 'false positive' detection methods have been raised.
- Ongoing research presents conflicting data on the presence and activity of dietary miRNAs.
Conclusions:
- The scientific community remains divided on the bioavailability and functional significance of dietary plant miRNAs in mammals.
- Methodological limitations may contribute to discrepancies in reported findings.
- Further rigorous research is required to definitively address the controversial topic of dietary miRNA delivery.
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