{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: MicroRNA-431 accelerates muscle regeneration and ameliorates muscular dystrophy by targeting Pax7 in mice.
{Author}: Wu R;Li H;Zhai L;Zou X;Meng J;Zhong R;Li C;Wang H;Zhang Y;Zhu D;
{Journal}: Nat Commun
{Volume}: 6
{Issue}: 0
{Year}: Jul 2015 7
{Factor}: 17.694
{DOI}: 10.1038/ncomms8713
{Abstract}: Skeletal muscle stem cells, called satellite cells, are a quiescent heterogeneous population. Their heterogeneity is influenced by Pax7, a well-defined transcriptional regulator of satellite cell functions that defines two subpopulations: Pax7(Hi) and Pax7(Lo). However, the mechanisms by which these subpopulations are established and maintained during myogenesis are not completely understood. Here we show that miR-431, which is predominantly expressed in the skeletal muscle, mediates satellite cell heterogeneity by fine-tuning Pax7 levels during muscle development and regeneration. In miR-431 transgenic mice, the Pax7(Lo) subpopulation is enriched, enhances myogenic differentiation and accelerates muscle regeneration. Notably, miR-431 attenuates the muscular dystrophic phenotype in mdx mice and may be a potential therapeutic target in muscular diseases. miR-431 transgenic mice are a unique genetic model for investigating the cellular features and biological functions of Pax7(Lo) satellite cells during muscle development and regeneration.