Shaping and preserving β-cell identity with microRNAs.

The highly sophisticated identity of pancreatic beta-cells is geared to accomplish its unique feat of providing insulin for organismal glucose and lipid homeostasis. This requires a particular and streamlined fuel metabolism which defines mature beta-cells as glucose sensors linked to an insulin exocytosis machinery. The establishment of an appropriate beta-cell mass and function during development as well as the maintenance of their identity throughout life are necessary for energy homeostasis. The small non-coding RNAs, microRNAs (miRNAs), are now well-recognized regulators of gene transcripts, which in general are negatively affected by them. Convincing evidence exists to view miRNAs as major actors in beta-cell development and function, suggesting an important role for them in the distinctive beta-cell 'identity card'. Here, we summarize key features that associate miRNAs and the establishment of the appropriate beta-cell identity and its necessary maintenance during their 'long life'.