MicroRNA Final Flashcards
(29 cards)
What are magnetic nanoparticles?
Tiny particles (typically iron oxide-based) coated to selectively bind to RNA molecules, including miRNA, from biological samples.
Used in the extraction of miRNA from samples like blood, saliva, or urine.
How do magnetic nanoparticles work in miRNA extraction?
Biological samples are mixed with magnetic particles, miRNA binds to these particles, and a magnet pulls the particles out of the solution for isolation.
This process results in high purity and fast extraction times.
What is the advantage of using magnetic nanoparticles for miRNA extraction?
- High Purity
- Fast and Efficient
- Compatible with small sample volumes
Ideal for clinical samples.
What is a disadvantage of using magnetic nanoparticles?
- Optimization Needed
- Cost
- Incomplete Binding Risk
These challenges can affect the efficiency and expense of extraction.
What is PCR?
Polymerase Chain Reaction, the gold standard for miRNA amplification that is very accurate and sensitive but time-consuming.
Typically takes 90-120 minutes.
What is LAMP?
Loop-mediated Isothermal Amplification, faster than PCR and can be performed at a constant temperature of ~60–65°C.
Takes 15–30 minutes and is suitable for point-of-care diagnostics.
What are Lab-on-a-Chip (LOC) systems?
Miniaturized devices that integrate laboratory functions like separation, amplification, and detection into a small chip.
Used for rapid detection of miRNA samples.
What are the advantages of Lab-on-a-Chip systems?
- Fast Results
- Point-of-Care Friendly
- Low Sample and Reagent Use
- Automation Potential
These benefits make LOC systems ideal for clinical settings.
What are microRNAs?
Small noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression and are crucial in various biological processes.
Typically composed of 18-25 nucleotides.
What are the functions of microRNAs?
- Gene Regulation
- Cellular differentiation
- Regulation of apoptosis
- Cancer development and progression
They play significant roles in cellular processes.
What is Drosha’s role in microRNA synthesis?
Cleaves pri-miRNA to pre-miRNA in the nucleus.
Essential for processing primary miRNAs.
What is the typical half-life of miRNAs?
Hours to days, generally ranging from 4–24 hours in dynamic environments to several days in stable conditions.
This ensures effective gene regulation.
What factors influence the stability of microRNAs?
- Protein binding
- Cellular conditions
- Post-transcriptional modifications
These factors affect degradation rates.
What is oncomicroRNA (OncomiR)?
A type of microRNA that promotes cancer by encouraging tumor growth, spread, or survival.
OncomiRs can block tumor suppressor genes.
What is the goal of microRNA inhibition therapy?
To suppress the function of oncogenic miRNAs to restore normal gene expression and halt disease progression.
Particularly important in cancer treatment.
What are Anti-miRs (AntagomiRs)?
Chemically modified antisense oligonucleotides that bind to target miRNAs, blocking their function.
Used in miRNA inhibition therapy.
What are Locked Nucleic Acids (LNAs)?
Synthetic RNA molecules with a locked ribose structure that enhance binding strength and resistance to degradation.
Beneficial in miRNA inhibition therapy.
What are miRNA sponges?
RNA constructs with multiple binding sites for target miRNAs that absorb miRNAs and prevent their binding to mRNA.
Used to inhibit miRNA function.
What role does CRISPR/Cas9 play in miRNA inhibition?
It can knock out or disrupt miRNA genes at the DNA level, offering a permanent inhibition method.
However, challenges like delivery and off-target effects need to be addressed.
What is the purpose of drug delivery systems for miRNA therapeutics?
To protect miRNAs, enhance stability, ensure specificity, and improve cellular uptake.
Essential for effective miRNA-based therapies.
What are lipid-based nanoparticles?
Nanoparticles that encapsulate miRNAs within a lipid bilayer, protecting them from degradation and aiding in cellular delivery.
Commonly used in miRNA delivery systems.
What are some challenges of using lipid-based nanoparticles?
- Potential toxicity
- Rapid clearance by the immune system
- Limited targeting specificity
These factors can affect their efficacy.
What are polymeric nanoparticles?
Nanoparticles made from biodegradable synthetic or natural polymers used to encapsulate miRNAs.
Common polymers include PLGA and chitosan.
What advantages do exosomes offer in miRNA delivery?
- High biocompatibility
- Low immunogenicity
- Natural barrier-crossing ability
They are effective for delivering miRNAs across biological barriers.
