MicroRNA signaling during regeneration

MicroRNAs are small non-coding RNAs that bind to the 3' untranslated regions of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) to regulate their expression. These small RNAs bind to 6-8 nucleotide seed sequences, therefore allowing a single miRNA to potentially regulate the expression of thousands of genes. Regeneration of complex tissue requires dynamically coordinated gene expression in multiple different cell types over large periods of time. MicroRNAs play a key role in acting as high-level effectors of gene expression during regeneration in multiple species. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are highly conserved and hence may be a valuable therapeutic tool in translating regenerative abilities cross-species via their ability to regulate multiple gene pathways. Regenerative engineering approaches focused on the development of biocompatible scaffolds for the effective delivery of miRNAs could represent a novel therapeutic strategy to promote a regenerative response after injury in mammals. This chapter reviews our knowledge to date on the role of several miRNAs in regulating regeneration in different species and how this could potentially be beneficial for human health.