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Defining Larger Roles for “Tiny” RNA Molecules: Role of miRNAs in Neurodegeneration Research

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Abstract

Many facets of transcriptional and translational regulation contribute to the proper functioning of the nervous system. Dysfunctional control of mRNA and protein expression can lead to neurodegenerative conditions. Recently, a new regulatory control element—small noncoding RNAs—has been found to play a significant role in many physiologic systems. Here, we review the microRNA (miRNA) field as it pertains to discovery-based and mechanistic studies on the brain and specifically in neurodegenerative disorders. Understanding the role of miRNAs in the brain will aid to open new avenues to the field of neuroscience and, importantly, neurodegenerative disease research.

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Acknowledgments

This is manuscript #05 from the UNMC Center for Integrative and Translational Neuroscience. The work of the authors is supported by NIH grants P30 MH062261, R01 MH073490, and P01 DA026146.

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  1. Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 985800 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5800, USA

    Sowmya V. Yelamanchili & Howard S. Fox

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  1. Sowmya V. Yelamanchili
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  2. Howard S. Fox
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Correspondence to Howard S. Fox.

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Yelamanchili, S.V., Fox, H.S. Defining Larger Roles for “Tiny” RNA Molecules: Role of miRNAs in Neurodegeneration Research. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 5, 63–69 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11481-009-9172-4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11481-009-9172-4

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