A brain-specific microRNA regulates dendritic spine development

Article Abstract:

A brain-specific microRNA, miR-134, is localized to the synapto-dendritic compartment of rat hippocampal neuron and negatively regulates the size of dendritic spines- postsynaptic sites of excitatory synaptic transmission. Exposure of neurons to extracellular stimuli such as brain-derived neutrophic factor relieves miR inhibition of Limk1 translation and may contribute to synaptic development, maturation and/or plasticity.

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Embracing the RNAissance

Article Abstract:

A new discovery about active role of RNA related with defense mechanism against genetic invasion from other organism, called RNA interference (RNAi) is described. RNAi became the hottest thing in science within years with companies rushing to help researchers design RNAs by providing reagents and kits for their gene-silencing endeavors.

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Silenced RNA on the move

Article Abstract:

Proteins are often produced at their site of action, but the RNAs from which they are made must be kept inactive until they reach the right spot. This strongly implies that there must be a tight coupling between RNA transport and repression of protein translation.

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