Scientists discover gene regulator that can help fight diabetes, cancer

SEOUL, Dec. 11 (Yonhap) -- A group of South Korean scientists has discovered a
microRNA in fruit flies that may help reveal new ways to fight diabetes and
cancer, a state-run research foundation said Friday.

According to the National Research Foundation of Korea, the group led by Kim V.
Narry, a researcher at Seoul National University, proved that the microRNA
regulator directly controls the miR-8 gene, which affects the insulin signal
delivery mechanism in laboratory insects. The micro-RNA controls "USH" target
genes that also have an effect on insulin levels, the team said.
The discovery, published in the latest online issue of the U.S. journal "Cell,"
is noteworthy because it shows the link between microRNA and insulin for the
first time.
The biological science professor said both the miR-8 and USH found in fruit flies
have similar genes called miR-200 and FOG2 in humans, which influence the insulin
level in humans.
Insulin control has a direct bearing on human health since irregular levels can
bring about diabetes and cancer. Problems in insulin control have been associated
with aging.
Kim said that by discovering the link between microRNAs and insulin control, the
research raises possibilities of finding treatments for various diseases.
yonngong@yna.co.kr
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