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Definition: What is the role of circular RNAs in the aging process?

In recent years, circRNAs have emerged as important regulators of gene expression and have been implicated in various biological processes, including aging. Studies have shown that circRNAs play a crucial role in modulating cellular senescence, a key hallmark of aging.

One of the main mechanisms by which circRNAs influence the aging process is through their ability to act as microRNA sponges. CircRNAs can bind to microRNAs, preventing them from interacting with their target mRNAs and thereby regulating gene expression. This interaction between circRNAs and microRNAs can have profound effects on cellular processes involved in aging, such as DNA damage repair, oxidative stress response, and cellular senescence.

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Additionally, circRNAs have been found to regulate the expression of genes involved in aging-related pathways, including those associated with inflammation, mitochondrial function, and telomere maintenance. By modulating the expression of these genes, circRNAs can influence the overall aging process and contribute to age-related diseases.

Furthermore, circRNAs have been shown to interact with proteins involved in chromatin remodeling and transcriptional regulation, suggesting their involvement in epigenetic modifications that occur during aging. These interactions can affect the accessibility of DNA to transcription factors and other regulatory molecules, ultimately influencing gene expression patterns and cellular function.

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Overall, the role of circRNAs in the aging process is complex and multifaceted. They act as regulators of gene expression, modulating various cellular processes involved in aging. Further research is needed to fully understand the specific mechanisms by which circRNAs contribute to aging and to explore their potential as therapeutic targets for age-related diseases.

Keywords: circrnas, expression, cellular, process, involved, processes, modulating, related, circular