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Semin Reprod Med 2008; 26(6): 461-468
DOI: 10.1055/s-0028-1096126
© Thieme Medical Publishers

MicroRNAs and Mammalian Ovarian Development

Han Zhao1 , 2 , Aleksandar Rajkovic1
  • 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
  • 2Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong Uni versity, Jinan, Shandong, China
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
24 October 2008 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Mammalian ovarian development involves unique interactions between the germ-line and somatic genomes. Several regulators affect gene expression, including a class of small RNAs called microRNAs (miRNAs). miRNAs are small, noncoding, regulatory RNAs that are 19 to 25 nucleotides long. miRNAs regulate gene expression in part via translational control of messenger RNAs (mRNAs). miRNAs are expressed during different stages of mammalian ovarian development and are likely to play important roles during gonadal development and folliculogenesis. The role of individual miRNAs in mammalian ovarian development is currently unknown and will remain an important focus for future investigations.

KEYWORDS

miRNA - ovary - microRNA - Nobox - oocyte

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Aleksandar RajkovicM.D. Ph.D. 

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine

1709 Dryden Road, Suite 1100, Houston, TX 77030

Email: rajkovic@bcm.edu

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