Overview
Nature, Nature. 2007 Oct 11;449(7163):745-7. Epub 2007 Sep 26
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenous single-stranded molecules found in nearly every organism. Animal studies of microRNA function have focused on their gene regulatory abilities, which are necessary for normal protein production. RNA interference as a therapeutic model holds much promise, but one concern is the possibility that the intrinsic miRNA pathway will be disrupted, leading to production of abnormal genetic products. Researchers administered siRNA directed towards miRNA found in liver genes, and found a highly-specific and long-lasting effect was produced. Results showed that it is possible to use siRNA as gene silencers in vivo without affecting cellular miRNA processes or functioning, and these findings further validate miRNAs as disease targets. [more]
Cell Cycle, Cell Cycle. 2007 Sep 1;6(17):2127-32. Epub 2007 Jun 26
Nature, Nature. 2007 Jun 28;447(7148):1130-4. Epub 2007 Jun 6
Mol Cel Biology, Mol Cell Biol. 2007 Mar;27(6):2240-52. Epub 2007 Jan 22
Nature, Gottwein et al. (2007) Nature, 450, 1096-1099
The study shows that a virally derived microRNA mimics the gene expression control by an endogenous host microRNA that has previously been implicated in human cancer. Evidence from the study suggests that the viral microRNA, which is encoded by the Kaposis Sarcoma Associated Herpesvirus, or KSHV, may represent the first example of a viral microRNA oncogene, termed an oncomir. [more]
J Virol, Dolken et al. (2007) J Virol., 24, 13771-13782
Characterizes the contribution of viral microRNAs to viral infection in mice infected with murine cytomegalovirus (CMV) and establishes this system as a model to study viral microRNAs in virus infections in vivo. Viral microRNAs are highly expressed during infection; some are more abundant than most cellular microRNAs and may thus compete with the function of cellular microRNAs. [more]
Nucleic Acid Res, Krutzfeldt et al. (2007) Nucleic Acids Res., 35, 2885-92
This study further validates the effectiveness of cholesterol conjugated microRNA antagonists in vivo by defining specificity, mechanistic effects and subcellular localization due to oligonucleotide administration. This facilitated new studies to silence microRNAs for functional analysis and in clinically relevant settings [more]
Cell, Cell. 2007 Apr 6;129(1):147-61.
The article provides strong evidence in support of specific developmental and disease relevant roles of single microRNAs in mammals. The work develops a compelling analysis to show that one micro-RNA, miR-181a, modulates the steady-state levels of multiple negative regulators of T-cell receptor (TCR) signaling and develops evidence that it is the integration of effects from the entire array of these multiple phosphatases, rather than one particular target, which is crucial for the effect of miR-181a. [more]
Adv Drug Deliv Rev., Esau, Monia. (2007) Adv Drug Deliv. Rev., 59, 101-14
Recent review outlining the therapeutic potential of microRNAs as targets, the possible therapeutic approaches as well as useful indications due to deeper knowledge of the link of microRNA biology with disease. [more]
