Review

MicroRNAs and ovarian function

Jason Baley and Julang Li^*

• * Corresponding author: Julang Li jli@uoguelph.ca

Author Affiliations

Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada

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Journal of Ovarian Research 2012, 5:8 doi:10.1186/1757-2215-5-8

Published: 9 February 2012

Abstract

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small non-coding RNAs which function in gene regulation with an important role in cell proliferation, maturation, and activity. The regulatory role of these small RNA molecules has recently begun to be explored in ovarian cells, uncovering their influence on gonadal development, steroidogenesis, apoptosis, ovulation, and corpus luteum development. This emerging area of research has extended and reshaped our understanding on how ovarian function is regulated. Here, we review the current understanding of miRNA biogenesis, the role and mechanism that miRNAs play in post-transcriptional gene expression regulation, and specifically the current evidence of miRNA involvement in ovarian development and function. Future comprehensive understanding of the role of miRNAs in the ovary in both physiological and pathological conditions may offer new treatment strategies for infertility and other ovarian disorders.