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Updated: Jan 12, 2026
09:37
An Integrated Approach for Microprotein Identification and Sequence Analysis
Published on: July 12, 2022
3.9K
Micropeptides Encoded by Noncoding RNAs: Biological Functions and Roles in Diseases
Jinghua Kong1,2, Xinwan Su2,3, Cefan Zhou1
1National "111" Center for Cellular Regulation and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Fermentation Engineering (Ministry of Education), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, China.
Research (Washington, D.C.)
|November 3, 2025
Summary
Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) can encode small proteins called micropeptides, impacting cellular functions and human diseases. This review explores their origins, roles, and therapeutic potential.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genomics
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) were traditionally viewed as non-functional.
- Recent findings reveal that various ncRNAs, including lncRNAs, circRNAs, pri-miRNAs, rRNAs, and UTRs, can encode micropeptides.
- These micropeptides play diverse roles in cellular processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review ncRNA-derived micropeptides.
- To examine their genomic origins, biogenesis, and cellular functions.
- To discuss their implications in human diseases and therapeutic potential.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and systematic examination of existing research.
- Analysis of genomic origins and biogenesis pathways.
- Evaluation of mechanistic roles in cellular physiology and disease.
Main Results:
- ncRNAs possess micropeptide-encoding capacity, contributing to RNA modification, transcription, splicing, translation, and posttranslational modifications.
- ncRNA-derived micropeptides are implicated in oncogenesis, cardiovascular disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases.
- Emerging potential as therapeutic targets and diagnostic biomarkers.
Conclusions:
- ncRNA-encoded micropeptides represent a significant advancement in understanding cellular regulation and disease.
- Systematic identification and annotation offer new avenues for targeted therapies and personalized medicine.
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