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Lin28 and let-7 in the Metabolic Physiology of Aging
Elwin Tan Jun-Hao1, Renuka Ravi Gupta1, Ng Shyh-Chang1
1Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore.
Abstract:
The Lin28/let-7 molecular switch has emerged as a central regulator of growth signaling pathways and metabolic enzymes. Initially discovered to regulate developmental timing in the nematode, the Lin28/let-7 pathway of RNA regulation has gained prominence for its role in mammalian stem cells, cancer cells, tissue development, and aging. By regulating RNAs, the pathway coordinates cellular growth and cellular metabolism to influence metabolic physiology. Here, we review this regulatory mechanism and its impact on cancers, which reactivate Lin28, cardiovascular diseases, which implicate let-7, human genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of growth, and metabolic diseases, which implicate the Lin28/let-7 pathway. We also highlight questions relating to Barker's Hypothesis and the potential actions of the Lin28/let-7 pathway on programming long-lasting epigenetic effects.
Insights
The Lin28/let-7 pathway controls cell growth and metabolism, impacting stem cells, aging, and diseases like cancer and cardiovascular conditions. This RNA regulation mechanism influences long-term epigenetic effects.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Developmental Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- The Lin28/let-7 pathway is a key regulator of growth signaling and metabolism.
- This RNA regulatory mechanism is crucial in stem cells, development, aging, and cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the Lin28/let-7 regulatory mechanism.
- To explore its impact on various diseases and biological processes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on Lin28/let-7.
- Analysis of its role in cancer, cardiovascular diseases, growth GWAS, and metabolic diseases.
Main Results:
- Lin28 reactivation is linked to cancers.
- let-7 is implicated in cardiovascular diseases.
- The pathway influences metabolic physiology and potentially epigenetic programming.
Conclusions:
- The Lin28/let-7 pathway is a critical coordinator of cellular growth and metabolism.
- It has significant implications for human health, disease, and potentially long-term epigenetic modifications.
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