• Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras have identified a specific microRNA (miRNAs) called ‘miR-155’ that is over-expressed in tongue cancer. 

What is MiR-155?

• MiR-155 is a microRNA that in humans is encoded by the MIR155 host gene or MIR155HG. 
• MiR-155 plays a role in various physiological and pathological processes.
• Exogenous molecular control in vivo of miR-155 expression may inhibit malignant growth, viral infections, and enhance the progression of cardiovascular diseases.

About MicroRNAs

• MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short non?coding RNAs containing 20–24 nucleotides that participate in virtually all biological pathways in animals.
• They have been found to play important roles in many cancers, in carcinogenesis (start of cancer), malignant transformation and metastasis — the development of secondary cancer.
• The miRNAs associated with cancer are called ‘Oncomirs’.”
• Many of the Oncomirs affect cancer by suppressing the performance of tumour-suppressing agents.
• Some of them can prevent the growth and spread of cancer cells and yet others prevent tumour growth itself.