The MicroRNA Family Both in Normal Development and in Different Diseases: The miR-17-92 Cluster

Figure 1

The miR-17-92 cluster participates in the development of diverse diseases by regulating the common target gene, contributing to neurological plasticity, functional recovery, and development of tumors via activation of the PI3K/AKT (protein kinase B)/mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin) PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway by downregulation of the phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN). A decrease in miR-18a and miR-19a levels leads to an increase in connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1). They are considered to be differentially expressed in relation to the many cardiac miRNAs in cardiomyocytes developing. The cluster is also essential for the development and maintenance of bone strength.