Roles of microRNA in gametogenesis, fertilization and early development embryo

Abstract

MicroRNAs are small noncoding RNAs of approximately 22 nucleotides in length, biosynthesized in the nucleus as a pre-microRNA, and matured in the cytoplasm. It can be secreted outside the cell as mature microRNA where it acts by post-transcriptional control mechanisms to regulate target cell gene expression. MicroRNAs represent a new class of molecular regulators that have important roles during fetal development until birth, after birth, and in the adult. We conducted a systematic literature review to present the currently available evidence about the possible roles of microRNAs in gametogenesis, fertilization and early development embryo. Here we have tried to show the effect of some types of microRNA on these events by modifying the main pathways of cellular signaling and discussing their applicability as promising biomarkers for improving fertility in women and men, ensuring the quality of the fetus and its safety early development.