MicroRNAs: Relevance to Aging and Age-Related Diseases

ABSTRACT

Gene expression is under a tight epigenetic control which includes DNA methylation, histone modification, and a recently discovered mechanism of RNA interference (RNAi). Not surprisingly, the dysregulations in epigenetic control appear to have a profound impact on both aging and age-related diseases (ARDs) including atherosclerosis, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and diabetes type 2. Here we summarize in brief what is known about RNAi in aging and ARDs, with a special focus on the RNAi key players -- microRNAs (miRNAs). This rapidly developing research field is only beginning to emerge and most data have been published during the last two years. Along with reviewing the existent data in the field, we present the results of our pilot analysis of the miRNA-mediated links between aging, longevity and ARDs using a network-based approach. The potential to influence miRNA activity by antisense agents or other compounds make miRNA a promising target for therapeutic interventions.

Keywords:

microRNAs, aging, age-related diseases, diabetes, skeletal muscle disorders, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegeneration, cancer, longevity network.