Commentary - Journal of RNA and Genomics (2024) Volume 20, Issue 5

MicroRNAs and long non-coding RNAs as genetic architects.

Remaliah Thiffault^*

Department of Life and Consumer Sciences, University of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa

Corresponding Author:

Remaliah Thiffault
Department of Life and Consumer Sciences,
University of South Africa,
Pretoria,
South Africa
E-mail: remaliaht@fault.co.za

Received: 21-Sep-2023, Manuscript No. RNAI-23-114437; Editor assigned: 25-Sep-2023, RNAI-23-114437 (PQ); Reviewed: 09-Oct-2023, QC No. RNAI-23-114437; Revised: 15-Oct-2024, Manuscript No. RNAI-23-114437 (R); Published: 22-Oct-2024, DOI: 10.35841/2591-7781.20.1000210

Citation: Wolf P. MicroRNAs and long non-coding RNAs as genetic architects. J RNA Genomics. 2024;20(5):1-2..

Description

In the realm of genetics, the focus has historically been on protein-coding genes the genetic architects responsible for building the proteins that perform countless functions within our bodies. However, over the past few decades, the spotlight has begun to shift towards a previously underappreciated class of molecules: functional non-coding RNA. These enigmatic RNA molecules are proving to be key players in regulating gene expression and orchestrating a wide array of cellular processes.

A new frontier: Non-coding RNA: Non-coding RNA (ncRNA) refers to a diverse group of RNA molecules that do not code for proteins, in contrast to messenger RNA (mRNA) which carries the genetic information for protein synthesis. While ncRNAs were once dismissed as "junk DNA" or genetic noise, it's now clear that they play crucial roles in regulating gene expression and shaping the complex machinery of life.

One of the most fascinating subsets of ncRNA is functional non-coding RNA, which includes microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and other emerging classes of regulatory RNAs. Let's delve into the roles and significance of these molecules in cellular biology.

MicroRNAs: Tiny regulators with a big impact: MicroRNAs are small ncRNAs, typically around 22 nucleotides in length, which act as post-transcriptional gene regulators. They bind to specific messenger RNAs and block their translation into proteins or facilitate their degradation. This fine-tuned regulation allows miRNAs to influence numerous biological processes, including development, immune response, and cell differentiation.

One well-known example is miR-155, which plays a critical role in the immune system's response to infections and has been implicated in autoimmune diseases and cancer. MiRNAs like miR-155 serve as intricate molecular switches, controlling gene expression with remarkable precision.

Long non-coding RNAs: Orchestrators of complexity: Long non-coding RNAs are a diverse group of ncRNAs, typically longer than 200 nucleotides that have multifaceted roles in gene regulation. They can act as scaffolds, guides, or decoys for other molecules in the cell, influencing processes such as chromatin remodelling, transcription, and mRNA stability.

One notable example is Xist, an lncRNA that plays a pivotal role in X-chromosome inactivation. Without Xist, females would produce a double dose of X-chromosome gene products, leading to developmental abnormalities. Understanding the function of lncRNAs like Xist sheds light on complex genetic regulatory mechanisms.

Emerging players in gene regulation: Beyond miRNAs and lncRNAs, ongoing research continues to uncover novel classes of functional non-coding RNAs with distinct roles in cellular processes. Circular RNAs (circRNAs), for instance, are circularized RNA molecules that can sponge up miRNAs or interact with RNA-binding proteins, impacting gene expression networks.

Small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are another fascinating class of ncRNAs involved in gene silencing, particularly in defense against transposable elements in the genome. These small RNAs maintain genome integrity and protect against mutations.

Disease implications and therapeutic potential: The emerging understanding of functional non-coding RNAs has profound implications for human health. Dysregulation of ncRNAs is associated with a range of diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and cardiovascular conditions. Identifying specific ncRNAs involved in these diseases opens doors to innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

In the realm of cancer, miRNAs and lncRNAs are of particular interest. Certain miRNAs act as oncogenes, promoting cancer progression, while others function as tumor suppressors. Harnessing the therapeutic potential of miRNAs as cancer treatments is an active area of research, with promising results in preclinical studies.

Conclusion

Functional non-coding RNA has emerged as a captivating and transformative field in genetics. These RNA molecules, once considered genetic bystanders, are now recognized as central players in gene regulation and cellular processes. Unraveling the intricate web of interactions involving miRNAs, lncRNAs, circRNAs, and other ncRNAs promises to deepen our understanding of biology and revolutionize disease diagnosis and treatment.

As researchers continue to unveil the mysteries of functional non-coding RNA, we can anticipate ground-breaking discoveries that will reshape our view of genetics and open doors to innovative therapies for a wide range of diseases. The RNA revolution is underway, and its impact on science and medicine is poised to be nothing short of revolutionary.