Small RNA s in Neurological Disorders

Abstract

Abstract Small RNAs ( ribonucleic acids ) are a group of noncoding RNA molecules with modulation functions that span a broad range, from RNA modification to protein synthesis regulation. The expression of small RNAs is found to be widespread in all eukaryotes, and more than a third of protein‐coding genes in the human genome are regulated by small RNAs. Mounting evidence suggests that the appropriate spatiotemporal expression of small RNAs, in particular microRNAs (miRNAs), is required for both brain morphogenesis and nervous system development. Moreover, dysregulation of specific miRNAs is possibly correlated with the pathogenesis of neurodevelopmental disorders. Understanding the potential roles of small regulatory RNAs in neural development and various human neurological disorders could reveal therapeutic applications that involve restoring or inhibiting the function of small RNAs. Key Concepts: Small RNAs have been found in all major groups of eukaryotes. Small RNAs are divided into four classes: microRNAs, small interacting RNAs, Piwi‐interacting RNAs and small nucleolar RNAs. In humans, microRNAs play important functional roles, interacting with at least 30% of all mRNAs. MicroRNAs are highly involved not only in normal brain function, but also in many developmental disorders. Known to act on mRNAs, microRNAs will degrade, translationally inhibit or even upregulate mRNA expression. One microRNA can affect the course of several neurodevelopmental disorders. A full understanding of microRNA function will yield possible medicinal treatments.