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Approaches to microRNA discovery

Nature Genetics volume 38, pages S2–S7 (2006)Cite this article

Abstract

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are noncoding RNAs that can regulate gene expression. Several hundred genes encoding miRNAs have been experimentally identified in animals, and many more are predicted by computational methods. How can new miRNAs be discovered and distinguished from other types of small RNA? Here we summarize current methods for identifying and validating miRNAs and discuss criteria used to define an miRNA.

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Figure 1: Methods for cloning miRNA.
Figure 2: Validation of miRNA candidates.

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Acknowledgements

We thank R. Ketting, M. Tijsterman, W. Kloosterman and other colleagues for discussion and critical comments on the manuscript.

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  1. Hubrecht Laboratory, Uppsalalaan 8, Utrecht, 3584CT, The Netherlands

    Eugene Berezikov, Edwin Cuppen & Ronald H A Plasterk

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Berezikov, E., Cuppen, E. & Plasterk, R. Approaches to microRNA discovery. Nat Genet 38 (Suppl 6), S2–S7 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1038/ng1794

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