Small RNAs are key regulators of mRNA turnover and translation.

 The small RNAs termed microRNAs (miRNAS) play important roles in cell proliferation, apoptosis and differentiation. MicroRNA mechanism is an efficient means to regulate production of a diverse range of proteins.

 RNA-based regulation of mRNAs may rival ubiquitination as a mechanism to control protein levels.

Types

• miRNAs
• siRNAs

References

 Mattick JS, Makunin IV. Small regulatory RNAs in mammals. Hum Mol Genet. 2005 Apr 15;14 Spec No 1:R121-32. PMID: #15809264#

 Nakahara K, Carthew RW. Expanding roles for miRNAs and siRNAs in cell regulation. Curr Opin Cell Biol. 2004 Apr;16(2):127-33. PMID: #15196554#