Department of Biotechnology
inStem (Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine)

Emerging Role of microRNAs in Dementia.

Publication Type

Journal Article

Date of Publication

April 19, 2019

Journal

Journal of molecular biology

Volume/Issue

431/9

ISSN

1089-8638

MicroRNAs are small non-coding RNAs regulating mRNA translation. They play a crucial role in regulating homeostasis in neurons, especially in regulating local and stimulation dependent protein synthesis. Since activity-mediated protein synthesis in neurons is critical for memory and cognition, microRNAs have become key players in modulating these processes. Dementia is a broad term used for symptoms involving decline of memory and cognition. Several studies have implicated the dysregulation of microRNAs in many brain diseases like neurodegenerative diseases, neurodevelopmental disorders, brain injuries and dementia. In this review, we give an overview of microRNA-mediated regulation of proteins and cellular processes affected in dementia pathology, hence illustrating the importance of microRNAs in normal functioning. We also focus on a relatively less explored area in dementia pathology-the importance of activity-mediated protein synthesis at the synapse and the role of microRNAs in modulating this. Overall, this review will be helpful in looking at the significance of microRNAs in dementia from the perspective of defective regulation of protein synthesis and synaptic dysfunction.

Alternate Journal

J Mol Biol

PubMed ID

30738891

Authors

Sarayu Ramakrishna
Ravi S Muddashetty

Keywords

Synaptic Transmission
ADAM10 Protein
Amyloid Precursor Protein Secretases
Aspartic Acid Endopeptidases
Dementia
Membrane Proteins
Animals
Mitophagy
Humans
tau Proteins
Disease Models, Animal
Neurons
MicroRNAs
Amyloid beta-Protein Precursor
Gene Expression Regulation
Autophagy
Protein Biosynthesis
Synapses