Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are 20 to 24 nt long, single-stranded RNAs that repress gene expression.
Dysregulation of miRNA expression is associated with many human diseases. Modulating
the level of endogenous miRNA alters gene profiling and can achieve therapeutic benefits.
Here the authors review currently used methods of altering miRNA activity in vivo. They focus on the delivery of miRNAs and miRNA inhibitors using recombinant adeno-associated
virus (rAAV). In general, rAAV-mediated miRNA inhibition or overexpression provides
a simple, efficient, and informative way to study miRNA function in mammals. This
method also provides the opportunity to explore potential miRNA therapeutics for many
diseases.
Keywords
adeno-associated virus - in vivo gene delivery - microRNA inhibition - microRNA overexpression