Control of microRNA biogenesis by TGFbeta signaling pathway-A novel role of Smads in the nucleus

Cytokine Growth Factor Rev. 2009 Oct-Dec;20(5-6):517-21. doi: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2009.10.004. Epub 2009 Nov 4.

Abstract

microRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNAs that modulate diverse biological functions through the repression of target genes. miRNA profiling studies have indicated that the levels of miRNAs are altered during normal development and pathogenesis of various diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular disorders. The signaling pathways which control miRNA biogenesis and the mechanisms of regulation, however, are not well understood. Following transcription, mature miRNAs are generated through a series of coordinated processing events mediated by large protein complexes. We recently found that signal transducers of the Transforming Growth Factor beta (TGFbeta) signaling pathway, the Smads, play a regulatory role in the processing of miRNA in the nucleus. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of the regulation of miRNA biogenesis mediated by the TGFbeta signaling pathway.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Nucleus / genetics*
  • Cell Nucleus / metabolism
  • Cell Nucleus / physiology
  • Epigenesis, Genetic / physiology
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental
  • Humans
  • MicroRNAs / genetics*
  • MicroRNAs / metabolism
  • Models, Biological
  • Signal Transduction / genetics
  • Smad Proteins / physiology*
  • Transforming Growth Factor beta / physiology*

Substances

  • MicroRNAs
  • Smad Proteins
  • Transforming Growth Factor beta