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Virchows Archiv
Published in: Virchows Archiv 1/2008

Open Access 01-01-2008 | Review and Perspective

MicroRNA—implications for cancer

Authors: Stefanie Sassen, Eric A. Miska, Carlos Caldas

Published in: Virchows Archiv | Issue 1/2008

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Abstract

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small RNA molecules that regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally. After the discovery of the first miRNA in the roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans, these short regulatory RNAs have been found to be an abundant class of RNAs in plants, animals, and DNA viruses. About 3% of human genes encode for miRNAs, and up to 30% of human protein coding genes may be regulated by miRNAs. MicroRNAs play a key role in diverse biological processes, including development, cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Accordingly, altered miRNA expression is likely to contribute to human disease, including cancer. This review will summarize the emerging knowledge of the connections between human miRNA biology and different aspects of carcinogenesis. Various techniques available to investigate miRNAs will also be discussed.
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Metadata
Title
MicroRNA—implications for cancer
Authors
Stefanie Sassen
Eric A. Miska
Carlos Caldas
Publication date
01-01-2008
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
Virchows Archiv / Issue 1/2008
Print ISSN: 0945-6317
Electronic ISSN: 1432-2307
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00428-007-0532-2

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