microRNA-mediated noise processing in cells: A fight or a game?

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
• Systems Biology
• Theoretical Biology

Background:

• MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a crucial role in post-transcriptional gene regulation.
• Their involvement in various diseases has garnered significant research interest.
• Emerging evidence highlights miRNAs as critical components in molecular noise processing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the dual role of miRNAs in molecular noise control.
• To discuss the interplay between theoretical modeling and experimental studies in elucidating miRNA functions.
• To highlight the advantages and limitations of theoretical approaches in miRNA research.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature combining theoretical and experimental studies.
• Analysis of miRNA-mediated gene expression regulation.
• Exploration of miRNA's impact on cellular variability.

Main Results:

• MiRNAs can act as "noise processing units" in gene expression.
• Two primary mechanisms of miRNA-mediated noise control have been identified: buffering and enhancing variability.
• Recent studies suggest miRNAs can increase cell-to-cell variability of target gene expression.

Conclusions:

• MiRNAs exhibit a complex role in regulating molecular noise.
• Understanding these regulatory roles is crucial for deciphering disease mechanisms.
• Theoretical modeling, despite limitations, is essential for advancing miRNA research.