Work

MicroRNAs’ Therapeutic Potential in Multiple Human Diseases

Year: 2026

Type: review

Abstract: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of short single-stranded non-coding RNAs widely present in multicellular eukaryotes, including animals, plants, and fungi. Typically, approximately 22 nucleotides in length (with some ranging from 22 to 25 nucleotides), miRNAs are predominantly localized to non-coding genomic regions and exhibit high evolutionary conservation. As key post-transcriptional modulators of gene expression, miRNAs are non-protein-coding molecules. They bind complementarily to the 3'UTR of target mRNAs. This interaction triggers mRNA breakdown or inhibits protein translation. In this way, miRNAs regulate nearly 30% of cellular protein expression. MiRNA biogenesis is tightly regulated. Abnormal miRNA expression alters disease-related genes and signaling pathways. It further drives the onset, development, and pathological processes of various human diseases. This review outlines recent progress in research on miRNA functions across multiple illnesses. These illnesses cover neurological, metabolic, tumor, and cardiovascular disorders.

Source: International Journal of Molecular Sciences

DOI: 10.3390/ijms27209371

Authors: Hua Zhang, Zhengxu Cai

Institutions: Dalian Medical University, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University

Language: English

Topic: MicroRNA in disease regulation

Subfield: Cancer Research

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,499