Unmasking Nuclear microRNA Functions: Mapping Genome-Wide miRNA–Promoter Interactions in Live Cells

While papers like Liu et al. (2018) and Rani & Sengar (2022) highlight emerging evidence of miRNAs functioning within the nucleus—regulating gene expression via promoter or enhancer binding—there’s a lack of comprehensive, genome-wide maps of these interactions. Most existing studies focus on cytoplasmic post-transcriptional regulation, leaving nuclear mechanisms underexplored. This idea proposes adapting technologies like ChIRP-seq (used for lncRNAs) or developing new proximity-labeling approaches to systematically chart where miRNAs bind across the genome in living cells. By creating such a resource, we could uncover new layers of gene regulation, identify direct transcriptional targets of miRNAs, and clarify their roles in processes like development, immunity, or cancer (as Liu et al. discuss). This could revolutionize our understanding of miRNA regulatory logic and pave the way for targeting nuclear miRNA functions therapeutically.

References:

1. Biogenesis and mechanisms of microRNA‐mediated gene regulation. V. Rani, R. S. Sengar (2022). Biotechnology and Bioengineering.
2. Biogenesis and mechanisms of microRNA‐mediated gene regulation. V. Rani, R. S. Sengar (2022). Biotechnology and Bioengineering.
3. Nuclear functions of mammalian MicroRNAs in gene regulation, immunity and cancer. Hongyu Liu, Cheng Lei, Qin He, Z. Pan, D. Xiao, Y. Tao (2018). Molecular Cancer.
4. Biogenesis and mechanisms of microRNA‐mediated gene regulation. V. Rani, R. S. Sengar (2022). Biotechnology and Bioengineering.