MicroRNA biogenesis and regulation of bone remodeling
1 Current address: Cell Biology Department, Room S7-318, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 Lake Avenue North, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
2 Center for Molecular Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center, 263 Farmingtion Ave, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
Arthritis Research & Therapy 2011, 13:220 doi:10.1186/ar3325
Published: 27 May 2011Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression. This review will highlight our current understanding of miRNA biogenesis and mechanisms of action, and will summarize recent work on the role of miRNAs, including the miR-29 family, in bone remodeling. These studies represent the first steps in demonstrating the importance of miRNAs in the control of osteoblast and osteoclast differentiation and function. An in-depth understanding of the roles of these regulatory RNAs in the skeleton will be critical for the development of new therapeutics aimed at treating bone loss and perhaps facilitating fracture repair.
