miRNA

Definition

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNA molecules approximately 21-25 nucleotides in length that regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally. They function by binding to complementary sequences in the 3' untranslated regions (3' UTRs) of target messenger RNAs (mRNAs), leading to mRNA degradation or translational repression. A single miRNA can regulate hundreds of target genes, and conversely, a single gene can be regulated by multiple miRNAs, creating complex regulatory networks. miRNAs play critical roles in diverse biological processes including cell differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis, and metabolism. Dysregulation of miRNA expression is implicated in numerous diseases, particularly cancer, cardiovascular disorders, and neurological conditions, making them valuable biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Visualize miRNA in Nodes Bio

Researchers can use Nodes Bio to map miRNA-mRNA regulatory networks, visualizing how individual miRNAs regulate multiple target genes and identifying hub miRNAs with broad regulatory influence. Network analysis reveals miRNA-mediated crosstalk between pathways, highlights co-regulated gene clusters, and identifies potential therapeutic targets by examining network topology and centrality measures in disease versus healthy states.

Example Use Case

A cancer researcher investigating tumor suppressor mechanisms discovers that miR-34a is downregulated in colorectal cancer samples. Using network visualization, they map miR-34a's validated target genes, revealing it regulates key oncogenes including MYC, CCND1, and CDK6. The network analysis shows miR-34a acts as a hub regulator controlling cell cycle progression and apoptosis pathways. By overlaying patient survival data, the researcher identifies that low miR-34a expression correlates with poor prognosis, suggesting miR-34a replacement therapy as a potential treatment strategy.

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