Let-7

Let-7

Let-7 is a family of non-coding RNA molecules which play a crucial role in the regulation of gene expression. They are classified as microRNA due to their small size and ability to bind to the 3' untranslated regions (3' UTRs) of target mRNAs, thereby inhibiting their translation and leading to a decrease in the production of the corresponding proteins.

Discovery

The Let-7 family was first discovered in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans during a study on developmental timing. The name "Let-7" stands for "lethal-7", as mutations in this gene resulted in lethality at the seventh (and last) stage of larval development.

Function

Let-7 microRNAs are highly conserved across species, indicating their important biological functions. They are involved in various biological processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. In humans, Let-7 is known to regulate multiple oncogenes and has been implicated in various types of cancer.

Role in Cancer

Abnormal expression of Let-7 has been observed in several types of cancer, including lung, breast, and colon cancer. In many cases, Let-7 acts as a tumor suppressor by inhibiting the expression of oncogenes. However, in some cases, it can also act as an oncogene, promoting tumor growth and progression.

Therapeutic Potential

Due to its role in cancer, Let-7 is being explored as a potential therapeutic target. Several strategies are being developed to modulate the levels of Let-7 in cancer cells, with the aim of inhibiting tumor growth and progression.

File:Let-7 microRNA.png

Structure of Let-7 microRNA

See Also

• MicroRNA
• Non-coding RNA
• Gene expression
• Oncogene
• Tumor suppressor gene