The Role of MicroRNA in Regulating Skeletal Muscle Development and Function

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Skeletal muscle development and function are crucial for overall human health and well-being. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as key regulators of gene expression and play significant roles in various cellular processes, including muscle development and function. This thesis explores the role of miRNAs in regulating skeletal muscle development and function, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the underlying mechanisms and potential implications for therapeutic interventions. The introductory chapter provides a background to the study, highlighting the importance of skeletal muscle development and function in human physiology. The problem statement underscores the gaps in current knowledge regarding the specific roles of miRNAs in regulating skeletal muscle development and function. The objectives of the study include investigating the expression patterns of miRNAs in skeletal muscle, elucidating their target genes, and exploring their functional significance in muscle development and function. The limitations and scope of the study are also outlined, along with the significance of the research in advancing our understanding of skeletal muscle biology. Chapter two presents a thorough literature review encompassing ten key areas related to miRNAs and skeletal muscle biology. This comprehensive review sets the stage for the subsequent chapters by summarizing existing knowledge and identifying gaps that warrant further investigation. Chapter three details the research methodology, including the experimental design, sample collection, RNA extraction, miRNA profiling, target gene prediction, functional assays, and data analysis. The methodology is designed to provide robust and reliable results to address the research objectives effectively. Chapter four presents a detailed discussion of the findings, including the expression profiles of miRNAs in skeletal muscle, their predicted target genes, and the functional implications of miRNA regulation in muscle development and function. The results are interpreted in the context of existing literature, highlighting the novel insights gained from this study. The concluding chapter summarizes the key findings of the research and their implications for understanding the role of miRNAs in regulating skeletal muscle development and function. The study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on miRNA-mediated gene regulation in skeletal muscle and provides a basis for future research in this field. Overall, this thesis enhances our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying skeletal muscle biology and opens new avenues for therapeutic interventions targeting miRNA pathways.