Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 17, 2025

Genome-wide Screen for miRNA Targets Using the MISSION Target ID Library
Published on: April 6, 2012
Unraveling the Regulatory Function of MicroRNAs in Reproductive System Apoptosis and Their Implications for
Hadis Musavi1, Maryam Ezzati2,3, Sheyda Hoseinnia4
1Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
Abstract:
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNA molecules that modulate gene expression and are essential in numerous biological functions, including reproductive functions. Alterations in miRNA expression can affect ovarian function, sperm development, and implantation processes, potentially leading to different diseases and consequently infertility. Researches have indicated that certain microRNAs play a crucial role in the regulation of hormones and proteins that are vital for reproductive processes, suggesting that dysregulation of these miRNAs may contribute to infertility in both men and women. Some miRNAs are able to promote apoptosis, while others may inhibit this process. They can control the expression of genes associated with programmed cell death, thereby influencing the health of oocytes and sperm. Dysfunction of some micro RNAs may lead to increased apoptosis and decreased fertility. The aim of this study was to investigate microRNAs involved in the regulation of apoptosis in male and female reproductive system cells, and to evaluate their association with infertility-related disorders.
Related Concept Videos
MicroRNAs
Experimental RNAi
siRNA - Small Interfering RNAs
In the cytoplasm, siRNA is processed from a double-stranded RNA, which comes from either endogenous DNA transcription or exogenous sources like a virus. This double-stranded RNA is then cleaved by the...
piRNA - Piwi-interacting RNAs
RNA Interference
This process occurs naturally in cells, often through the activity of genomically-encoded microRNAs. Researchers can take advantage of this mechanism by introducing synthetic RNAs to deactivate specific genes for research or therapeutic purposes. For example, RNAi could be used...
Regulation of Expression at Multiple Steps

