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Source-This post on Nobel Prize for microRNA Discovery is based on the article “Nobel Prize for microRNA find underscores RNA’s primacy in biology” published in “The Hindu” on 17th October 2024.
Why in the News?
Recently, the discovery of microRNA earned the Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine. This is the fifth Nobel Prize awarded for RNA research, emphasizing RNA’s fundamental role in cell biology.
Previous awards have recognized discoveries like mRNA (1965), RNA as enzymes (1989), RNA interference (2006), and mRNA vaccines (2023).
About Cellular Biology
Each cell contains a DNA blueprint to build and maintain the organism. Proteins, made based on DNA instructions, perform various functions like oxygen transport by haemoglobin. Only specific genes are expressed in different cell types, allowing specialized protein production in each type.
About MicroRNAs (miRNAs)
1. They are small, non-coding RNA molecules that play a crucial role in regulating gene expression.
2. They are typically about 20-24 nucleotides long and function by binding to messenger RNA (mRNA) molecules, leading to mRNA degradation or inhibition of translation.
How microRNA Regulates Protein Production
1. mRNA is a transient copy of DNA used to create proteins through transcription.
2. miRNAs bind to mRNA, halting protein synthesis by either marking mRNA for degradation or preventing it from producing proteins.
3. miRNA and mRNA share the same four chemical bases but differ in length, with miRNA being only about 22 bases long.
Importance of microRNA in Cellular Processes
1. miRNAs regulate approximately 60% of human genes and are crucial in processes like cell development, differentiation, cell division, and response to stress and disease.
2. They play a significant role in controlling abnormal protein production, making them potential targets for cancer and other therapies.
3. miRNA trials, like those for miRNA-34a, began in 2013 but faced challenges due to early delivery technology limitations, leading to immune reactions and halted trials.
4. Improved packaging and delivery methods have enabled trials against diseases such as hepatitis C and cardiovascular conditions.
5. Current Status: As of the recent Nobel announcement, 581 miRNA-related clinical trials had been registered in the U.S., with mixed outcomes.
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