MicroRNAs in Endocrinology and Cell Signaling

MicroRNAs (miRNA) are non-coding RNAs that play important roles in regulating gene expression, and thereby are involved in many biological processes. MiRNAs are major players in endocrinology and cell signaling. First, they have hormone-like activities to mediate intercellular communication. They can be secreted from cells, enter circulation, reach target cells to regulate their activities. Second, miRNAs regulate hormone secretion. Third, they modulate receptors and signaling networks that mediate the functions of hormones, growth factors, and cytokines. Finally, hormones have been reported to regulate the expression level of miRNAs.

This Research Topic aims to provide an updated view on how miRNAs are involved in regulating cellular signaling events and their function and regulation in the endocrine system. We welcome reviews, original research articles, and methods that are related to the following topics:

• MiRNA secretion and detection in circulation
• Role of miRNAs in regulating hormones production and secretions
• Modulation of intracellular signaling network by miRNAs
• Regulation of miRNA by signaling molecules, such as hormones, growth factors, circular RNAs, and long non-coding RNAs
• Mechanisms of gene regulation by miRNAs, especially those genes that are involved in hormone production or cellular signaling events