The role of microRNAs in acute myeloid leukemia

Abstract

MicroRNAs (miRs) are short (18-22 nucleotides) non-coding RNAs that are important in regulating gene expression. MiR expression is deregulated in many types of cancers, including leukemias. In acute myeloid leukemia (AML), the expression of specific miRs has been linked with both prognostically and cytogenetically defined subgroups. Recent studies have shown that deregulation of miR expression is not simply a consequence of AML but a potential contributer to leukemogenesis. This commentary will focus on select findings that describe the different mechanistic roles for miRs in the development of leukemia. © 2010 Faculty of 1000 Ltd.