Go With the Flow: Fluid Roles for miRNAs in Vertebrate Osmoregulation

Document Type

Book Chapter

Publication Date

2015

Department

Biological Sciences

School

Biological, Environmental, and Earth Sciences

Abstract

MicroRNAs are a family of small RNAs that regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally. By regulating the expression of multiple genes that mediate salt and water balance, miRNAs enable precise control over osmoregulatory processes in vertebrates. Differential expression of miRNAs and divergent mRNA targeting have allowed for adaptation of osmoregulatory tissues during vertebrate evolution. Interestingly, only a small number of mRNA target relationships have been maintained over the millennia, indicating that gain and loss of miRNA/mRNA networks have enabled species-specific osmoregulation.

Publication Title

Sodium and Water Homeostasis

First Page

159

Last Page

172

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