Deep sequencing of microRNA precursors reveals extensive 3' end modification.

ABSTRACT: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, noncoding RNAs that post-transcriptionally regulate gene expression. An emerging mechanism to control miRNA production is the addition of an oligo-uridine tail to the 3' end of the precursor miRNA. This has been demonstrated for the Let-7 family of miRNAs in embryonic cells. Additionally, nontemplated nucleotides have been found on mature miRNA species, though in most cases it is not known if nucleotide addition occurs at the precursor step or at the mature miRNA. To examine the diversity of nucleotide addition we have developed a high-throughput sequencing method specific for miRNA precursors. Here we report that nontemplated addition is a widespread phenomenon occurring in many miRNA families. As previously reported, Let-7 family members are oligo-uridylated

SUBMITTER: Newman MA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3185913 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature