Gene network and pathway analysis of mice with conditional ablation of Dicer in post-mitotic neurons.

Abstract

BackgroundThe small non-protein-coding microRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as critical regulators of neuronal differentiation, identity and survival. To date, however, little is known about the genes and molecular networks regulated by neuronal miRNAs in vivo, particularly in the adult mammalian brain.Methodology/principal findingsWe analyzed whole genome microarrays from mice lacking Dicer, the enzyme responsible for miRNA production, specifically in postnatal forebrain neurons. A total of 755 mRNA transcripts were significantly (PConclusions/significanceTaken together, these results provide new clues into the role of specific miRNA pathways in the regulation of brain identity and maintenance in adult mice.