MicroRNAs: Allies or Foes in Erythropoiesis?

MicroRNAs are small non-coding RNAs that negatively regulate gene expression through mRNA degradation or translational repression. It is becoming increasingly recognized that miRNAs play central roles in almost all cellular processes, and especially during development. The function of miRNAs in hematopoiesis, including erythropoiesis, is beginning to be elucidated. In this review, we will focus on what is known about miRNA function in various aspects of erythropoiesis and red cell physiology. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 7-13, 2012. (C) 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.