Besides proteins and low-molecular-weight regulators, non-coding RNA (ncRNA) plays an important regulatory role in nervous system function. Recent studies revealed that this is an important mechanism regulating expression of cellular genetic information. Number of ncRNA molecules discovered to date is increasing continuously, while the exact role of most of them is still poorly understood. ncRNA plays a crucial role in nervous system development and function, both in normal and in pathological conditions. Enormous potential of ncRNA-based control of central nervous system function is evidenced by multitude of processes where their contribution has been demonstrated. These include mechanisms of synaptic plasticity, learning, memory, and reaction to stress. Defective ncRNA biosynthesis results in development of several neurodegenerative, neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders. As long as their role remains obscure, it will be impossible to elucidate complex intracellular processes going on in nervous system cells. Recently, interest of scientific community focused on microRNA (miRNA). These small, endogenous, non-coding molecules participate in several biological processes, e.g. proliferation, angiogenesis, cell differentiation or apoptosis. Nearly 70% of human miRNA discovered to date are located in the brain. As estimated, they control expression of about 50% of genes, and affect almost all metabolic pathways. Therefore, they appear a perfect target of research when looking for novel therapies for central nervous system diseases.

non-coding RNA, microRNA, biogenesis of microRNA, regulation of gene expression, central nervous system, role of ncRNA in neurological diseases