MicroRNA News and Research

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In genetics, microRNAs (miRNA) are single-stranded RNA molecules of 21-23 nucleotides in length, which regulate gene expression. miRNAs are encoded by genes from whose DNA they are transcribed but miRNAs are not translated into protein (i.e. they are non-coding RNAs); instead each primary transcript (a pri-miRNA) is processed into a short stem-loop structure called a pre-miRNA and finally into a functional miRNA. Mature miRNA molecules are partially complementary to one or more messenger RNA (mRNA) molecules, and their main function is to down-regulate gene expression.

How maternal microbes shape babies’ gut health and disease risk

Early microbial exposures from maternal microbes, milk components, and the environment shape infant gut development and long-term disease risk. The review highlights mechanisms, preventive levers, and research gaps in supporting healthy microbiome inheritance across generations.

29 Sep 2025

Targeting miR-378 could offer a dual-action strategy against osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a degenerative disease characterized by decreased bone mass and damage to bone microarchitecture, as well as increased bone fragility.

23 Sep 2025

Novel biotechnical vector integrates viral and synthetic features for targeted cancer therapy

Gene therapy offers the possibility of addressing cancer at its molecular roots by targeting disease-causing genes rather than relying solely on surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy.

16 Sep 2025

Novel RNA target offers hope for improving outcomes in patients with chronic limb ischemia

Mark W. Feinberg, MD, cardiologist with the Mass General Brigham Heart and Vascular Institute and professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, is the senior author of a paper published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, "A smooth muscle cell lncRNA controls angiogenesis in chronic limb-threatening ischemia through miR-143-3p/HHIP signaling."

13 Sep 2025

MicroRNA panels show promise for improving prostate cancer diagnosis

Prostate cancer is highly heterogeneous, ranging from slow-growing tumors to aggressive, life-threatening disease.

2 Sep 2025

Shared gene signatures reveal metabolic dysfunction in liver cirrhosis and acute-on-chronic liver failure

Chronic liver cirrhosis (LC) and acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) are interconnected hepatic disorders associated with substantial morbidity and mortality.

27 Aug 2025

Lauric acid could be a key cancer-fighting compound in coconut oil

Virgin coconut oil and lauric acid show promise in inhibiting cancer cell growth and mitigating chemotherapy toxicity, paving the way for future therapies.

11 Aug 2025

Study unveils a novel therapeutic solution for diabetic wound healing

Diabetic wounds, particularly foot ulcers, are notorious for their slow and often incomplete healing due to reduced blood flow and endothelial cell dysfunction.

8 Aug 2025

HOXB13 emerges as a context-dependent regulator in cancer biology

HOXB13, a B-class homeobox transcription factor, sits at the hub of developmental gene networks yet has emerged as a double-edged sword in human cancer.

5 Aug 2025

Reactivating silent genes offers hope for Rett syndrome treatment

Researchers led by UC Davis Health scientist Sanchita Bhatnagar have developed a promising gene therapy that could treat Rett syndrome.

23 Jul 2025

Sperm RNA profiles could identify the best embryos for IVF

Findings on sperm RNA suggest new biomarkers for IVF success, potentially improving embryo selection and reducing cycles needed for desired fertility outcomes.

21 Jul 2025

MicroRNAs emerge as key players in soft tissue sarcoma

A new editorial was published in Volume 16 of Oncotarget on July 16, 2025, titled "microRNAs in soft tissue sarcoma: State of the art and barriers to translation."

18 Jul 2025

Exploring the dual role of microRNA-223 in hepatic fibrosis

Announcing a new article publication for BIO Integration journal. Liver fibrosis is caused by excessive extracellular matrix accumulation, which in turn is driven by activation of hepatic stellate cells.

19 Jun 2025

Nanoplastics reshape gut microbiome, weakening gut defenses

Polystyrene nanoplastics impact gut health by modifying microbiota interactions via extracellular vesicles, raising concerns about environmental nanoplastics.

12 Jun 2025

New biomarker identified for predicting microvascular health of the kidneys

In a world first, Canadian scientists at the CRCHUM, the hospital research centre affiliated with Université de Montréal, have identified microRNA able to protect small blood vessels and support kidney function after severe injury.

27 May 2025

Blood markers offer hope for early detection of teen depression

Using a novel lab method they developed, McGill University researchers have identified nine molecules in the blood that were elevated in teens diagnosed with depression.

22 May 2025

Liquid biopsy advances precision medicine in gynecological cancers

A landmark review, now published in the Journal of Experimental & Clinical Cancer Research, offers a sweeping and authoritative synthesis on the use of liquid biopsy in gynecological oncology placing this emerging tool at the forefront of precision medicine for women.

16 May 2025