Modulators of MicroRNA Function in the Immune System

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a key role in fine-tuning host immune homeostasis and responses through the negative regulation of mRNA stability and translation. The pathways regulated by miRNAs are well characterized, but the precise mechanisms that control the miRNA-mediated regulation of gene expression during immune cell-development and immune responses to invading pathogens are incompletely understood. Context-specific interactions of miRNAs with other RNA species or proteins may modulate the function of a given miRNA. Dysregulation of miRNA function is associated with various human diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases and cancers. Here, we review the potential modulators of miRNA function in the immune system, including the transcription regulators of miRNA genes, miRNA-processing enzymes, factors affecting miRNA targeting, and intercellular communication.