The role of microRNAs in Anopheles biology-an emerging research field.

In the last years, microRNAs (miRNAs) have been established as important post-transcriptional regulators of critical physiological processes in animals and plants. Here, we summarize what is known about miRNA biosynthesis, expression and function in the malaria vector mosquito Anopheles gambiae with a particular emphasis on the mosquito-parasite interactions. We discuss the important gaps in the current knowledge, including the potential of miRNA manipulation for future vector control strategies.