MicroRNA-mediated gene silencing

MicroRNA-mediated gene silencing is a fundamental biological process involving small non-coding RNAs (miRNAs) that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. miRNAs, typically 19-25 nucleotides long, bind to target messenger RNAs (mRNAs) leading to their translational repression or degradation. This intricate regulatory mechanism plays crucial roles in various cellular processes, including development, differentiation, metabolism, and stress responses. Dysregulation of miRNA-mediated gene silencing is implicated in numerous diseases, making miRNAs and their regulatory pathways potential targets for therapeutic intervention or diagnostic biomarkers.

Other names

RNA-induced gene silencingmiRNA-mediated silencingmiRNA-dependent gene silencingpost-transcriptional gene silencing by miRNA

Translational repression of mRNAs via miRNA-loaded RISCs; Induction of mRNA degradation through deadenylation and decapping; AGO2-mediated endonucleolytic cleavage (rare in animals, more common in plants).