Abstract
Normal physiology depends on defined functional output of differentiated cells. However, differentiated cells are often surprisingly fragile. As an example, phenotypic collapse and dedifferentiation of β cells were recently discovered in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes (T2D). These discoveries necessitate the investigation of mechanisms that function to maintain robust cell type identity. microRNAs (miRNAs), which are small non-coding RNAs, are known to impart robustness to development. miRNAs are interlaced within networks, that include also transcriptional and epigenetic regulators, for continuous control of lineage-specific gene expression. In this Opinion article, we provide a framework for conceptualizing how miRNAs might participate in adult β cell identity and suggest that miRNAs may function as important genetic components in metabolic disorders, including diabetes.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 285-292 |
Number of pages | 8 |
Journal | Trends in Endocrinology and Metabolism |
Volume | 25 |
Issue number | 6 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 1 Jan 2014 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Cellular identity
- Dedifferentiation
- Diabetes
- Endocrine pancreas
- MiRNAs
- β cells
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
- Endocrinology