Science and Mathematics Faculty Publications
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
5-2009
Journal Title
Journal of Autoimmunity
Volume
32
Issue
3-4
First Page
189
Last Page
194
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small conserved non-coding RNA molecules that post-transcriptionally regulate gene expression by targeting the 3′ untranslated region (UTR) of specific messenger RNAs (mRNAs) for degradation or translational repression. miRNA-mediated gene regulation is critical for normal cellular functions such as the cell cycle, differentiation, and apoptosis, and as much as one-third of human mRNAs may be miRNA targets. Emerging evidence has demonstrated that miRNAs play a vital role in the regulation of immunological functions and the prevention of autoimmunity. Here we review the many newly discovered roles of miRNA regulation in immune functions and in the development of autoimmunity and autoimmune disease. Specifically, we discuss the involvement of miRNA regulation in innate and adaptive immune responses, immune cell development, T regulatory cell stability and function, and differential miRNA expression in rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus.
Keywords
MicroRNA, Autoimmunity, Immune response, Rheumatiod arthritis, Systemic lupus erythematosus
Recommended Citation
Pauley, Kaleb M.; Cha, S.; and Chan, E. K., "MicroRNA in autoimmunity and autoimmune diseases" (2009). Science and Mathematics Faculty Publications. 192.
https://digitalcommons.cedarville.edu/science_and_mathematics_publications/192
