MicroRNA (miRNA)
An Overview
What is miRNA?
• MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding
RNA molecules (~22 nucleotides) that play a
crucial role in gene regulation. They function
by binding to complementary sequences on
target mRNAs, usually resulting in gene
silencing.
Biogenesis of miRNA
• 1. Transcription: miRNA genes are transcribed
by RNA polymerase II.
• 2. Processing: Primary miRNA (pri-miRNA) is
processed in the nucleus by Drosha into
precursor miRNA (pre-miRNA).
• 3. Export: Pre-miRNA is exported to the
cytoplasm.
• 4. Dicing: Dicer processes pre-miRNA into
mature miRNA duplex.
• 5. RISC Loading: One strand is incorporated
Mechanism of Action
• miRNAs regulate gene expression by:
• - Binding to the 3' untranslated region (3' UTR)
of target mRNAs.
• - Inducing mRNA degradation or inhibiting
translation depending on the
complementarity.
• - Involved in various cellular processes
including development, differentiation, and
apoptosis.
Clinical Relevance
• - miRNAs are implicated in various diseases
including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and
neurological disorders.
• - Serve as potential biomarkers for diagnosis
and prognosis.
• - Therapeutic targets: miRNA mimics and
inhibitors are being explored for treatment.
Conclusion
• miRNAs are key regulators of gene expression
with significant roles in health and disease.
Understanding their functions opens up new
avenues in diagnostics and therapeutics.

miRNA_Presentation____________________pptx

  • 1.
  • 2.
    What is miRNA? •MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNA molecules (~22 nucleotides) that play a crucial role in gene regulation. They function by binding to complementary sequences on target mRNAs, usually resulting in gene silencing.
  • 3.
    Biogenesis of miRNA •1. Transcription: miRNA genes are transcribed by RNA polymerase II. • 2. Processing: Primary miRNA (pri-miRNA) is processed in the nucleus by Drosha into precursor miRNA (pre-miRNA). • 3. Export: Pre-miRNA is exported to the cytoplasm. • 4. Dicing: Dicer processes pre-miRNA into mature miRNA duplex. • 5. RISC Loading: One strand is incorporated
  • 4.
    Mechanism of Action •miRNAs regulate gene expression by: • - Binding to the 3' untranslated region (3' UTR) of target mRNAs. • - Inducing mRNA degradation or inhibiting translation depending on the complementarity. • - Involved in various cellular processes including development, differentiation, and apoptosis.
  • 5.
    Clinical Relevance • -miRNAs are implicated in various diseases including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurological disorders. • - Serve as potential biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis. • - Therapeutic targets: miRNA mimics and inhibitors are being explored for treatment.
  • 6.
    Conclusion • miRNAs arekey regulators of gene expression with significant roles in health and disease. Understanding their functions opens up new avenues in diagnostics and therapeutics.