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Updated: Feb 3, 2026
High-throughput Screening for Chemical Modulators of Post-transcriptionally Regulated Genes
Published on: March 3, 2015
Post-transcriptional control of miRNA biogenesis
Gracjan Michlewski1,2, Javier F Cáceres3
1Division of Infection and Pathway Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, United Kingdom.
Abstract:
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are important regulators of gene expression that bind complementary target mRNAs and repress their expression. Precursor miRNA molecules undergo nuclear and cytoplasmic processing events, carried out by the endoribonucleases DROSHA and DICER, respectively, to produce mature miRNAs that are loaded onto the RISC (RNA-induced silencing complex) to exert their biological function. Regulation of mature miRNA levels is critical in development, differentiation, and disease, as demonstrated by multiple levels of control during their biogenesis cascade. Here, we will focus on post-transcriptional mechanisms and will discuss the impact of cis-acting sequences in precursor miRNAs, as well as trans-acting factors that bind to these precursors and influence their processing. In particular, we will highlight the role of general RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) as factors that control the processing of specific miRNAs, revealing a complex layer of regulation in miRNA production and function.
Insights
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression by targeting mRNAs. RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) control miRNA processing, adding a complex layer to gene regulation and biological function.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Biochemistry
Background:
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of gene expression, impacting cellular processes.
- Mature miRNAs are produced through sequential processing of precursor molecules by DROSHA and DICER.
- Regulation of miRNA levels is crucial for development, differentiation, and disease states.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore post-transcriptional mechanisms controlling miRNA biogenesis.
- To investigate the role of cis-acting sequences and trans-acting factors in precursor miRNA processing.
- To highlight the function of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) in miRNA production.
Main Methods:
- Focus on post-transcriptional regulation of miRNA biogenesis.
- Analysis of cis-acting sequences within precursor miRNAs.
- Identification and characterization of trans-acting factors, including RBPs, that influence miRNA processing.
Main Results:
- Cis-acting sequences in precursor miRNAs modulate their processing.
- Trans-acting factors, particularly RBPs, bind to precursor miRNAs.
- RBPs significantly impact the processing efficiency and levels of specific mature miRNAs.
Conclusions:
- Post-transcriptional regulation, involving cis-acting elements and RBPs, is a critical control point for miRNA production.
- RBPs add a sophisticated layer of regulation to miRNA biogenesis and function.
- Understanding these regulatory mechanisms is vital for comprehending miRNA's role in health and disease.
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