Abstract:

microRNAs (miRNAs) are a family of important small non-coding RNA molecules, which participate in posttranscriptional
control of gene expression. A number of nutrient elements can play biological roles by affecting and
regulating the expression and activities of miRNAs. In this review, we briefly summarize the sources and functions of
miRNAs. Also, we analyze the biological significances of food-derived miRNAs, and the influences of nutrient elements
on endogenous miRNAs expression. Additionally, the possible applications of miRNAs expression affected by nutrient
elements are also discussed. We hope that this paper can provide references for further study and applications of miRNAs in
the field of nutritional science.

Key words: microRNAs, nutrition, expression, tumor