Exploring the role of microRNAs in the mechanism of stress-induced anxiety

Written by Amsbio
Company news

In an informative original blog, AMSBIO (Oxford, UK) reports how researchers at the University of Exeter Medical School (UK) have shed light on the role of microRNA miR-483-5p in attenuating the detrimental effects of stress on brain function and anxiety-related behaviors.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small RNA sequences that regulate gene expression and are implicated in some neuropsychiatric conditions. This published study focuses on miR-383-5p’s regulatory role in the amygdala, a region of the brain involved in emotional processing and known to play a crucial role in stress-induced anxiety. However, the specific role of miRNAs in the amygdala and their effects on stress has until now been poorly understood.

To investigate this, Robert Pawlak and his team of researchers used custom lentiviral particles supplied by Amsbio to investigate the impact of miR-483-5p on neuronal morphology in mouse models. Their findings revealed that this targeted overexpression of miR-483-5p in the amygdala led to significant changes in neuronal morphology, promoting increased dendritic complexity and spine density (key indicators of enhanced synaptic connectivity). Further, these changes were associated with reduced anxiety-like behaviors, such as increased exploration of open arms in a maze, indicating a potential anxiolytic effect. Having gained a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between miRNAs, stress and anxiety, the blog proposes that this research opens exciting new avenues for future therapeutic interventions.

To read this blog post in full, including a link to the original study, please visit https://www.amsbio.com/news/mirna-alleviating-anxiety.

About AMSBIO
Now part of the Europa Biosite group of companies, AMS Biotechnology (AMSBIO) is recognized as a leading transatlantic company contributing to the acceleration of discovery through the provision of cutting-edge life science technology, products, and services for R&D in the medical, nutrition, cosmetics, and energy industries. AMSBIO has in-depth expertise in extracellular matrices to provide elegant solutions for studying cell motility, migration, invasion, and proliferation. This expertise in cell culture and the ECM allows AMSBIO to partner with clients in tailoring cell systems to enhance organoid and spheroid screening outcomes using a variety of 3D culture systems, including organ-on-a-chip microfluidics. For drug discovery research, AMSBIO offers assays, recombinant proteins, and cell lines. Drawing upon a huge and comprehensive biorepository, AMSBIO is widely recognized as a leading provider of high-quality tissue specimens (including custom procurement) from both human and animal tissues. The company provides unique clinical grade products for stem cells and cell therapy applications. This includes GMP cryopreservation technology, and high-quality solutions for viral delivery.