MicroRNAs regulatory networks in myeloid lineage development and differentiation: regulators of the regulators.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are abundant small molecules of ≈ 22 nucleotides that reprogram gene expression by targeting mRNA degradation and translation disruption. An emerging concept implicates miRNA coupling with transcription factors in myeloid-based development of dendritic cells, monocytes and granulocytes, as well as function as mature cells and contributors to host defense and inflammation. Here, we review this new and important interactive circuitry and how it contributes to reprogramming cell phenotypic responses associated with mature immune competency.