<\/p>\n
The fundamental role of non-coding RNAs \u2013 which are not translated into proteins \u2013 in regulating developmental and functional programs of tissues, particularly the nervous system, has become increasingly apparent in recent years.<\/p>\n
While many specific functions are still not well understood, non-coding RNAs play a crucial biological role, making them of considerable interest, especially in the field of biomedical research.<\/p>\n
A new study, led by Irene Bozzoni from the Department of Biology and Biotechnology Charles Darwin at Sapienza University and the Clns of the Italian Institute of Technology, in collaboration with Pietro Laneve from CNR, has characterized the activity of a specific gene (MN2) that directs the production of multiple structurally diverse non-coding RNAs, both long (lncRNA) and short (microRNA).<\/p>\n
In particular, advanced molecular and cellular biology techniques have enabled researchers to elucidate the mechanism through which the interplay between lncRNA and microRNA controls the expression of protein-coding genes crucial in the differentiation of motor neurons, which are the neurons responsible for transmitting nerve signals from the central nervous system to muscles.<\/p>\n
The research, born from collaboration between Sapienza University, the Italian Institute of Technology, and CNR, was funded by ERC-2019-SyG and published in the prestigious international journal The EMBO Journal.<\/p>\n
“The work \u2013 explains Irene Bozzoni, coordinator of the research group \u2013 helps us better understand the functions attributed to the non-coding genome. In particular, we have highlighted for the first time how a mechanism based on microRNA sequestration by an lncRNA \u2013 called a ‘molecular sponge’ \u2013 contributes to the generation of motor neurons.”<\/p>\n
Motor neurons, in addition to mediating nerve signals responsible for muscle contraction, are also targets of severe degenerative diseases and disabling injuries.<\/p>\n
“The hope \u2013 concludes Irene Bozzoni \u2013 is that understanding the processes of motor neuron formation may enable the development of new therapeutic approaches in neurodegenerative medicine.”<\/p>\n