MiRNomics: An Introduction to MicroRNA Biology

As information increases, so does ignorance. This is, of course, nothing new. Nevertheless, it is particularly striking in the case of genetics and epigenetics. Decoding the genome once was thought to be the key to complete understanding of human beings, their traits, and their diseases. Today, it is generally understood that we are much more than our genetic makeup. Epigenetics is a key factor in enhancing our individuality and enabling us to respond more rapidly to the environment. Noncoding RNAs, such as microRNAs, are part of this. MiRNomics is a scientific branch that has earned the right to be considered a discipline in its own. As an omic-technology, it combines powerful measurement methods with computerized data acquisition systems and analysis software. In the following pages, we would like to highlight some of its fascinating features. After portraying a brief history of the field, we will describe the origin and function of microRNA. We will then give a brief overview of its implementation in research and diagnostics before the detailed discussions in the chapters that follow.