The role of microRNAs in controlling protein expression noise

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The expression of genes is influenced by stochastic processes, leading to fluctuations in protein levels. Excessive fluctuations can harm an organism's fitness, as many cellular processes rely on precise protein interactions. This PhD thesis investigates the role of post-transcriptional regulatory mechanisms, particularly microRNAs, in controlling stochasticity in gene expression. Through bioinformatic data analysis, mathematical modeling, and single-cell expression experiments, the research examines how microRNAs can mitigate fluctuations in gene expression. The key finding is that microRNAs can reduce fluctuations for most genes, suggesting that organisms utilize them to ensure precision in gene expression during development and in maintaining adult body functions. The study highlights the importance of microRNAs as common regulators in multicellular organisms, demonstrating their potential role in enhancing the stability of gene expression. Overall, the thesis provides valuable insights into the mechanisms that organisms employ to manage the inherent variability in gene expression, emphasizing the significance of microRNAs in promoting cellular precision and fitness.