Epigenetic studies focus on the interaction of the environment and gene expression and microRNAs are an essential part of this interaction. They are a class of small non-coding RNAs of 20–25 nucleotides in length, which are crucial post-transcriptional negative regulators of gene expression. They associate with a complementary 2–8 nucleotide sequence termed the ‘seed’ region in the target mRNA by promoting mRNA digestion and thus down-regulating specific transcript levels. It has been estimated that approximately 50% of the human protein-coding genes are post-transcriptionally regulated by microRNAs.

Gene expression deregulation plays a vital role in cellular dysfunctions; thus, expression levels of microRNAs are widely studied in many tissues. The Atlas of tissue-specific microRNAs is of interest in researching human pathologies such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative diseases, and more. Further, due to their fast and relatively easy detection in biofluids, a vital part of research is conducted to find panels of microRNAs that can serve as valuable tools in detecting several diseases.

This Special Issue welcomes contributions that broaden understanding of gene expression regulation by microRNAs in homeostasis and disease. Contributions exploring factors, modifiers, and consequences of microRNA deregulation leading to disease and those highlighting microRNA panels that may serve as disease biomarkers are welcome. Potential areas of interest may include, but are not limited to:

● Use of microRNA in silencing gene expression to study gene function, gene regulation, and biochemical pathways.
● Understanding of microRNA's role in cellular homeostasis and disease.
● Biogenesis and regulation of microRNA molecules. Studies regarding microRNA targets, mechanisms of up-and down-regulation of microRNAs, and factors impacting microRNA levels.
● Development of diagnostic tools based on panels of microRNAs to detect early stages of disease or response to therapy.

For authors, please review the journal's information regarding Author Guidelines and Article Processing Charges, or direct any questions to the Editorial Office: abp@frontierspartnerships.org.

Article types and fees

This Special Issue accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Special Issue description:

• Brief Research Report
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review
• Systematic Review

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Special Issue accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Special Issue description:

• Brief Research Report
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review
• Systematic Review

Keywords: microRNA, miRNA, gene expression, epigenetics, microRNA-based diagnostic approaches