Emerging role of microRNAs in liver diseases

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Emerging role of microRNAs in liver diseases

Bala S, Marcos M, Szabo G.

Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, LRB 215, 364 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, United States. gyongyi.szabo@....

MicroRNAs are a class of small non-coding RNAs that are found in plants, animals, and some viruses. They modulate the gene function at the post-transcriptional level and act as a fine tuner of various processes, such as development, proliferation, cell signaling, and apoptosis. They are associated with different types and stages of cancer. Recent studies have shown the involvement of microRNAs in liver diseases caused by various factors, such as Hepatitis C, Hepatitis B, metabolic disorders, and by drug abuse. This review highlights the role of microRNAs in liver diseases and their potential use as therapeutic molecules.

PMID: 19960558

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19960558?dopt=Abstract

http://www.wjgnet.com/1007-9327/15/5633.asp