About

It was first discovered in the early 1990s and has since been found in a wide range of organisms, including humans. MiRNAs are transcribed from DNA, but unlike protein-coding genes, they do not produce proteins. Instead, they function by binding to messenger RNA (mRNA) molecules and either suppressing their translation or promoting their degradation. This regulatory mechanism allows miRNAs to fine-tune gene expression and control various biological processes, including development, cell differentiation, and metabolism. The discovery of miRNAs has revolutionized our understanding of gene regulation and has opened up new avenues for research in multiple fields, including cancer, neurobiology, and infectious diseases. In cancer, aberrant expression of certain miRNAs has been linked to tumor initiation, progression, and metastasis. Furthermore, miRNAs have shown promise as potential therapeutic targets, with ongoing efforts to develop miRNA-based drugs for various diseases. The Wikipedia page on microRNA provides detailed information on the discovery, biogenesis, and functions of miRNAs, as well as their involvement in diseases and potential clinical applications. It also includes a list of notable miRNAs and references to further reading on the topic.