Mitochondrial miRNAs and Their Biological Functions

Abstract: Mitochondria are important organelles in cells， which are the main energy metabolism sites in the body. They are involved in regulating the life activities of the organism. Mitochondrial dysfunction is closely related to the occurrence and development of various diseases. MicroRNA (miRNA) is a class of non-coding singlestranded RNA molecules encoded by endogenous genes of about 20 to 25 nucleotides and is widely found in eukaryotes. Studies have shown that miRNAs can regulate gene expression at post-transcriptional levels by inhibiting target mRNA translation or promoting its degradation. At present， studies have reported that nearly one-third of the protein-coding genes can be regulated by miRNAs. miRNAs are almost involved in all life activities of the body. Previous studies have focused on the function of miRNAs in the nucleus and cytoplasm. In recent years， more and more reports on the role of miRNAs in mitochondria have become a new hotspot in biology research. Mitochondrial miRNAs play an important role in the regulation of mitochondrial function and participate in the development of many diseases. This paper will summarize the mitochondrial miRNA and its biological function.

CSTR: 32200.14.cjcb.2018.07.0023