Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 13, 2026

Production and Purification of Baculovirus for Gene Therapy Application
Published on: April 9, 2018
Baculovirus-Encoded MicroRNAs: A Brief Overview and Future Prospects
Qi Tang1, Lipeng Qiu1, Guohui Li2,3
1Institute of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China.
Abstract:
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNAs with ∼22 nucleotides, which are able to regulate various biological processes, including the viral life cycle and host-pathogen interactions. Long primary transcripts (pri-miRNAs) are initially transcribed in nucleus, and subsequently processed by Dicer in cytoplasm to generate mature miRNAs. Baculoviruses consist of large, enveloped, insect-pathogenic viruses with a double-stranded circular DNA genome. Recent studies suggest that baculoviruses encode some miRNAs to manipulate expression regulation of host genes, whereas host modulate viral gene expression via miRNAs to limit viral infection. In the review, we will focus on the biogenesis and functions of miRNAs and the interactions between baculoviruses, insect, and miRNAs. It will be helpful to delve into the related mechanisms of BmNPV-encoded miRNAs that contribute to infection and pathogenesis.
Insights
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate biological processes and host-pathogen interactions. This review explores baculovirus-encoded miRNAs, their biogenesis, and roles in insect infection and pathogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Virology
- Genetics
Background:
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs regulating gene expression.
- Baculoviruses are insect-pathogenic viruses with double-stranded DNA genomes.
- Both viruses and hosts utilize miRNAs in their interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the biogenesis and functions of miRNAs.
- To explore the interplay between baculoviruses, insects, and miRNAs.
- To elucidate the role of BmNPV-encoded miRNAs in infection.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of miRNA biogenesis and function.
- Analysis of host-pathogen interactions involving baculoviruses and miRNAs.
- Focus on Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus (BmNPV)-encoded miRNAs.
Main Results:
- miRNAs are crucial regulators in viral life cycles and host-pathogen dynamics.
- Baculoviruses encode miRNAs to modulate host gene expression.
- Host miRNAs can limit viral replication.
Conclusions:
- Understanding baculovirus-miRNA interactions is key to controlling insect viral diseases.
- BmNPV-encoded miRNAs play significant roles in viral pathogenesis.
- Further research into these mechanisms can reveal novel antiviral strategies.
Related Concept Videos
MicroRNAs
MicroRNAs
Encoding
Automatic processing involves the encoding of details like time, space, frequency, and the meaning of words, usually done without conscious...
Overview of Transposition and Recombination
Overview of Metabolism
Plant Metabolism
Sunlight, the primary source of energy in plants, is first absorbed by the chlorophyll pigments present in their leaves. Plants then use this energy to carry out photosynthesis, where water is oxidized into oxygen and carbon dioxide...
Overview of Functional Groups

