Contribution of the miRNA-interferon interaction to human disease

During viral infections, cells release signalling molecules called interferons to warn their neighbour cells and mount a systemic antiviral state. Despite their essential and beneficial role, uncontrolled production of interferons is implicated in a wide range of diseases such as lupus, affecting 1:1000 of adults in the UK. To ensure proper levels of interferons, cells have adopted multiple mechanisms regulating their production. We have recently shown that miRNAs, a type of small molecules, are crucial for controlling interferon levels. Interestingly, this interaction is reciprocal as we showed that interferons also control miRNA levels. We now hypothesise that errors in this interaction are key in understanding human diseases characterised by dysfunctional miRNA- or interferon production. By investigating the mechanisms underlying this interaction, we will provide an explanation for some poorly understood symptoms of these diseases and new targets for therapeutic interventions for conditions characterised by uncontrolled interferon responses.