“MicroRNAs influence a wide range of essential biological processes, such as cell development, immune response and metabolism”
TECNALIA and advances in personalised medicine: we are analysing the role of microRNAs in neurodegenerative diseases
Our genetics laboratory is actively working on projects that explore the role of microRNAs in neurodegenerative diseases, which are becoming increasingly prevalent due to the ageing of the population. We are analysing how these small genetic regulators influence gene expression and the underlying mechanisms in these diseases, in order to understand the biological processes involved.
Not only do we seek to enhance our knowledge of these diseases, but also to contribute to the implementation of personalised medicine, adjusting treatments and therapies to the genetic characteristics of each patient. By doing so, we hope to improve the quality of life of people affected by these pathologies and contribute to a healthier society that is better prepared to face the challenges of ageing.
RNA molecules in gene regulation
It has recently been announced that the Nobel Prize in Medicine 2024 has been awarded to Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun for the discovery of microRNAs, small RNA molecules that play a key role in gene regulation.
- These molecules bind to messenger RNAs, inhibiting their translation into proteins and fostering their degradation.
- MicroRNAs have been proven to influence a wide range of essential biological processes, such as cell development, immune response and metabolism.
The impact of this finding on biomedical research is huge, especially since the human genome encodes more than a thousand microRNAs, which have been linked to various pathologies, including cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.
