Non-coding RNA

Non-coding RNA (ncRNA) is a type of RNA that does not encode a protein, but has functions of its own. Non-coding RNAs play various roles in the cell, including regulation of gene expression, organization of chromosome structure, and alteration of protein activity.

Types of Non-coding RNA

There are several types of non-coding RNAs, each with distinct functions. These include:

• MicroRNA (miRNA): These are small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. They bind to messenger RNA (mRNA) molecules and prevent them from being translated into proteins.

• Small interfering RNA (siRNA): These are double-stranded non-coding RNAs that interfere with the expression of specific genes. They do this by degrading mRNA after it has been transcribed.

• Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA): These are longer RNA molecules that regulate gene expression at various levels, including transcription and post-transcriptional processing.

• Ribosomal RNA (rRNA): This is a component of the ribosome, the cellular machinery that translates mRNA into protein.

• Transfer RNA (tRNA): This is involved in the process of translation, carrying amino acids to the ribosome to be added to the growing protein chain.

Function of Non-coding RNA

Non-coding RNAs have a wide range of functions in the cell. They are involved in the regulation of gene expression, the modification of proteins, the organization of chromosomes, and many other processes. Some non-coding RNAs, such as miRNAs and siRNAs, regulate gene expression by binding to mRNA molecules and preventing them from being translated into proteins. Others, such as lncRNAs, can interact with proteins and other molecules to regulate gene expression at the level of transcription.

Role in Disease

Alterations in the function of non-coding RNAs have been implicated in a number of diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and cardiovascular diseases. For example, changes in the expression levels of certain miRNAs have been associated with the development and progression of cancer. Similarly, mutations in lncRNAs have been linked to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.

See Also

• RNA
• Gene expression
• Protein synthesis