Narrative
MicroRNAs are a class of non-protein-coding RNA genes that regulate the expression of protein-coding mRNAs in animals and plants. Researchers at the University of Manchester (UoM) have developed a microRNA database (miRBase) which has become an essential resource for researchers both in academia and the pharmaceutical industry. The database is the central global repository for all published microRNA sequences and annotation.miRBase data enables production of novel experimental kits and resources (including microRNA qPCR assays and microarrays) by companies including ABI, Invitrogen, Sigma-Aldrich and Exiqon. Tools produced by these companies underpin experimental microRNA research across academic and industrial settings, which benefit product development, drug discovery and clinical research. Exiqon reported more than 110 million DKK in revenue from their life science business in 2012, with main product lines involving microRNAs.
| Impact date | 2007 → 2014 |
|---|---|
| Category of impact | Health impacts, Technological impacts, Economic impacts |
| Impact level | Benefit |
Documents & Links
Related content
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Research output
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Detection of microRNAs in color space
Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › peer-review
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Functional shifts in insect microRNA evolution
Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › peer-review
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MiRBase: Integrating microRNA annotation and deep-sequencing data
Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › peer-review
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miRBase: Tools for microRNA genomics
Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › peer-review
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Impacts
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The miRBase microRNA database – driving the development of commercial microRNA research tools, diagnostics and therapeutics
Impact: Technological impacts, Economic, Health and wellbeing, Policy