Evidence demonstrating role of microRNAs in the etiopathology of major depression.

ABSTRACT: Major depression is a debilitating disease. Despite a tremendous amount of research, the molecular mechanisms associated with the etiopathology of major depression are not clearly understood. Several lines of evidence indicate that depression is associated with altered neuronal and structural plasticity and neurogenesis. MicroRNAs are a newly discovered prominent class of gene expression regulators that have critical roles in neural development, are needed for survival and optimal health of postmitotic neurons, and regulate synaptic functions, particularly by regulating protein synthesis in dendritic spines. In addition, microRNAs (miRNAs) regulate both embryonic and adult neurogenesis. Given that miRNAs are involved in neural plasticity and neurogenesis, the concept that miRNAs may play a

SUBMITTER: Dwivedi Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3163781 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature