MicroRNA pathway (miRNA pathway)

The miRNA pathway refers to the series of biological processes responsible for the synthesis, processing, and functional deployment of microRNAs (miRNAs) in cells. miRNAs are 19–24 nucleotide non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression by binding complementary sequences in messenger RNA (mRNA) molecules, leading most commonly to mRNA destabilization and translational repression. Canonical miRNA biogenesis starts with transcription of primary miRNA by RNA polymerase II, followed by nuclear processing by Drosha-DGCR8 to precursor miRNA, cytoplasmic export, and final cleavage by Dicer. The mature miRNA becomes part of the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC), which mediates suppression of target mRNAs through either translational inhibition or degradation, depending on the degree of sequence complementarity. miRNAs play key roles in cell differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis, development, and disease, notably acting as both tumor suppressors and oncogenes. The diversity and broad regulatory capacity of the miRNA pathway make it essential for homeostasis and a complex, indirect target for therapeutic modulation.

Other names

MicroRNA processing pathwaymiRNA biogenesis pathwaymicroRNA regulatory pathwayRNA-induced silencing pathway

Inhibition or enhancement of specific miRNAs to modulate their regulatory effects on gene expression; Targeting enzymes/proteins essential for miRNA maturation (e.g., Drosha, Dicer); Disruption of miRNA-mRNA interactions