microRNAs for peripheral blood fraction identification: Origin, pathways and forensic relevance

• Type: Another Publication in an International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2015

Authors

Machado, MT (Author) Other; Navega, S (Author) Other; Dias, F (Author) Other; Carneiro de Sousa, MJC (Author) Other; Teixeira, AL (Author) Other; Rui Medeiros (Author) ICBAS

Journal

Title: Life Sciences

Vol. 143

Pages: 98-104

ISSN: 0024-3205

Publisher: Elsevier

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 13 Citations

Scopus - 14 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00G-W6J

DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2015.10.029

Abstract (EN): microRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs, with a length of 18 to 24 nucleotides that play a regulatory role in several cellular processes. Since their discovery, they have been identified in cells, tissues, organs, and body fluids and their potential as molecular biomarkers for the diagnosis of various pathologic conditions has been explored. However, little is known about the origin of the extracellular miRNAs and what factors influence the levels of circulating miRNAs. This information could help the refinement of miRNAs as more effective biomarkers. Additionally, the identification of the origin of miRNAs may prove to be very useful in the association of particular miRNAs with specific pathologies. This review aims to gather information concerning the origin of miRNAs in plasma and serum, as well as to assess their potential to be use as biomarkers for these peripheral blood fractions.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 7