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Updated: Aug 18, 2025
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Application of an In vitro DNA Protection Assay to Visualize Stress Mediation Properties of the Dps Protein
Published on: May 31, 2013
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Dark DNA and stress (Review).
Konstantina Malliari1, Eleni Papakonstantinou1, Thanasis Mitsis1
1Laboratory of Genetics, Department of Biotechnology, School of Applied Biology and Biotechnology, Agricultural University of Athens, 11855 Athens, Greece.
International Journal of Molecular Medicine
|December 9, 2022
Summary
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) from dark DNA regulate gene expression and homeostasis. Their altered expression in stress and anxiety disorders suggests potential as biomarkers or therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Genomics
- Molecular Biology
- Epigenetics
Background:
- The non-coding genome, once termed 'junk DNA,' is now recognized as a source of regulatory non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs).
- ncRNAs play crucial roles in orchestrating complex biological processes, including maintaining homeostasis.
- The proportion of non-coding regions may correlate with evolutionary advancement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of ncRNAs in stress response and homeostasis.
- To explore the potential of ncRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for stress-related disorders.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and data synthesis.
- Analysis of studies investigating ncRNA expression changes under stress.
- Examination of ncRNA involvement in anxiety disorder models.
Main Results:
- ncRNA expression is significantly altered by acute and chronic stress.
- ncRNA dysregulation is observed in patients with anxiety disorders and relevant animal models.
- ncRNAs exhibit spatiotemporal specificity, making them effective gene expression regulators.
Conclusions:
- ncRNAs are critical regulators of gene expression and homeostasis.
- Altered ncRNA profiles in stress and anxiety disorders highlight their potential as biomarkers.
- ncRNAs represent promising therapeutic targets for restoring homeostasis and treating related disorders.
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