MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small 19-23 nucleotide regulatory RNAs that function by modulating mRNA translation and/or turnover in a sequence-specific fashion. In the nervous system, miRNAs regulate the production of numerous proteins involved in synaptic transmission. In turn, neuronal activity can regulate the production and turnover of miRNA through a variety of mechanisms. In this way, miRNAs and neuronal activity are in a reciprocal homeostatic relationship that balances neuronal function. The miRNA function is critical in pathological states related to overexcitation such as epilepsy and stroke, suggesting miRNA's potential as a therapeutic target. We review the current literature relating the interplay of miRNA and neuronal activity and provide future directions for defining miRNA's role in disease. © 2013 Eacker, Dawson and Dawson.
CITATION STYLE
Eacker, S. M., Dawson, T. M., & Dawson, V. L. (2013, August 27). The interplay of microRNA and neuronal activity in health and disease. Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience. https://doi.org/10.3389/fncel.2013.00136
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