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Cross-Kingdom Regulation by Plant microRNAs Provides Novel Insight into Gene Regulation

Abdul Fatah A Samad1, Mohd Farizal Kamaroddin1, Muhammad Sajad2

  • 1Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia.

Advances in Nutrition (Bethesda, Md.)
|August 31, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Plant microRNAs (miRNAs) can regulate human gene expression after oral consumption. This review explores their cross-kingdom mechanisms, controversies, and potential for dietary therapy in humans.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics
  • Nutrition Science

Background:

  • microRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of gene expression at the post-transcriptional level in both plants and mammals.
  • Plant-derived miRNAs have demonstrated the ability to influence gene expression in other kingdoms, including humans.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current understanding of cross-kingdom gene regulation by plant miRNAs in mammals.
  • To discuss the controversies and potential therapeutic applications of plant miRNAs in human health.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of existing research on plant miRNA uptake and function in mammals.
  • Analysis of studies investigating the mechanisms of action and biological effects of plant miRNAs.

Main Results:

  • Plant miRNAs can survive digestion, enter circulation, and modulate mammalian gene expression.
  • Evidence suggests specific plant miRNAs can target human mRNAs for regulation.

Conclusions:

  • Plant miRNAs represent a novel mechanism for cross-kingdom communication with potential implications for human health.
  • Further research is needed to fully elucidate mechanisms and harness the therapeutic potential of plant miRNAs in dietary interventions.
Keywords:
cross-kingdomdietary therapymicroRNA (miRNA)plantpost-transcriptional regulation

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