Author
 |
HIRSCHI, KENDAL - Children'S Nutrition Research Center (CNRC) |
|
Submitted to: Journal of Nutrition
Publication Type: Other Publication Acceptance Date: 12/6/2017 Publication Date: 1/25/2018 Citation: Hirschi, K.D. 2018. Uptake of dietary milk microRNAs by adult humans: Rules for the game of hide and seek. Journal of Nutrition. 148(1):5-6. Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: Milk producers recently used a social media campaign to build public confidence in the health benefits of their product; however, it is not clear why they did not tout the abundant microRNAs (miRNAs), small non-coding RNA molecules that function in RNA silencing and post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression, as novel bioactives within milk. Some evidence suggests that milk miRNAs may be encapsulated in cell-derived vesicles that facilitate their dietary uptake (1). No doubt the milk producers did not have the time or energy to discuss this controversial issue (2). The mobility of small RNA molecules from one species to another is a compelling concept (3, 4). Transfer of functional small RNAs has been reported to occur between closely interacting pathogenic, parasitic, or symbiotic organisms (3, 4). In complex organisms, current thinking suggests a game of hide and seek with the elusive dietary miRNAs winning. In fact, it has not yet been resolved whether dietary miRNAs are hiding or simply not playing (4). |
