MicroRNAs and genomic variations: from Proteus tricks to Prometheus gift.
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs with regulatory functions. MiRNAs are aberrantly expressed in almost all human cancers, leading to abnormal levels of target genes. Recently, an increasing number of studies have addressed whether genomic variations including germ line or somatic mutations and single-nucleotide polymorphisms can count for miRNA abnormal expression by altering their biogenesis and/or affect the ability of miRNAs to bind to target messenger RNAs. Here, we provide an extensive review of the studies that have investigated variations occurring both in miRNA genes and in target genes and we discuss the possible clinical implications of these findings. Furthermore, we propose that sequence variations in miRNAs or interactor sites located in mRNAs can be involved in cancer predisposition.
Fabbri
Muller
M
Department of Molecular Virology, Immunology and Medical Genetics, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, 43210, USA.
Valeri
Nicola
N
Calin
George A
GA
D001665:Binding Sites; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease; D014644:Genetic Variation; D015894:Genome, Human; D006801:Humans; D035683:MicroRNAs / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology*; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism*; D011401:Promoter Regions, Genetic; D012333:RNA, Messenger / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism*; D022661:RNA, Untranslated / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism
D035683:MicroRNAs; D012333:RNA, Messenger; D022661:RNA, Untranslated