MicroRNAs and endocrine biology

J Endocrinol. 2005 Dec;187(3):327-32. doi: 10.1677/joe.1.06426.

Abstract

microRNAs (miRNAs) are highly conserved, non-coding RNAs that powerfully regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. These fascinating molecules play essential roles in many biological processes in mammals, including insulin secretion, B-cell development, and adipocyte differentiation. This review provides a general background regarding current knowledge about miRNA biogenesis and the potential contributions of these RNAs to endocrine function.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adipocytes / cytology
  • Argonaute Proteins
  • Cell Differentiation / physiology
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / physiopathology
  • Endocrine Glands / physiology*
  • Eukaryotic Initiation Factor-2
  • Gene Expression Regulation / genetics
  • Humans
  • MicroRNAs / genetics
  • MicroRNAs / physiology*
  • Models, Biological
  • Pancreas / physiology
  • Peptide Initiation Factors / genetics
  • Transcription, Genetic

Substances

  • AGO2 protein, human
  • Argonaute Proteins
  • Eukaryotic Initiation Factor-2
  • MicroRNAs
  • Peptide Initiation Factors