Bhaskaran M, Mohan M
Infectious Disease Aerobiology, Division of Microbiology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA, USA
Division of Comparative Pathology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA, USA.
Vet Pathol. 2014 Jul;51(4):759-74. doi: 10.1177/0300985813502820. Epub 2013 Sep 17.
The discovery of microRNAs (miRNAs) in 1993 followed by developments and discoveries in small RNA biology have redefined the biological landscape by significantly altering the longstanding dogmas that defined gene regulation. These small RNAs play a significant role in modulation of an array of physiological and pathological processes ranging from embryonic development to neoplastic progression. Unique miRNA signatures of various inherited, metabolic, infectious, and neoplastic diseases have added a new dimension to the studies that look at their pathogenesis and highlight their potential to be reliable biomarkers. Also, altering miRNA functionality and the development of novel in vivo delivery systems to achieve targeted modulation of specific miRNA function are being actively pursued as novel approaches for therapeutic intervention in many diseases. Here we review the current body of knowledge on the role of miRNAs in development and disease and discuss future implications.
1993年微小RNA（miRNA）的发现，以及随后小RNA生物学领域的发展与发现，通过显著改变长期以来定义基因调控的教条，重新定义了生物学格局。这些小RNA在从胚胎发育到肿瘤进展等一系列生理和病理过程的调节中发挥着重要作用。各种遗传性、代谢性、感染性和肿瘤性疾病独特的miRNA特征为研究其发病机制增添了新的维度，并突出了它们作为可靠生物标志物的潜力。此外，改变miRNA功能以及开发新型体内递送系统以实现对特定miRNA功能的靶向调节，正作为许多疾病治疗干预的新方法而被积极探索。在此，我们综述了目前关于miRNA在发育和疾病中作用的知识体系，并讨论其未来意义。
