Evolutionary Emergence of microRNAs in Human Embryonic Stem Cells
2008
Evolution of microRNAs in Human Embryonic Stem Cells
Sample size: 276
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Cao Hong, Yang Chao-shun, Rana Tariq M.
Primary Institution: University of Massachusetts Medical School
Hypothesis
During ES cell differentiation, miRNA expression levels would change to modulate posttranscriptional gene expression.
Conclusion
Human ES cell differentiation is accompanied by changes in the expression of a unique set of miRNAs, revealing a new regulatory circuitry that may control early development in humans.
Supporting Evidence
- 276 miRNAs were expressed in human embryonic stem cells.
- A set of 30 miRNAs had significantly changed expression during differentiation.
- Chromosomes 19 and X contained the majority of miRNA genes expressed in hES cells.
- 99% conservation of chromosome 19 miRNA genes between chimpanzees and humans.
- Most of the hES-specific miRNAs evolved approximately 5 million years ago.
Takeaway
This study found that special tiny molecules called miRNAs change when stem cells turn into different types of cells, helping us understand how humans develop.
Methodology
Small RNAs were isolated from hES cells and quantified using miRNA microarray analysis.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website