MicroRNAs are small, non-coding RNA molecules that interact with target mRNAs to modulate their translation. They are now recognized as widespread and critical regulators of gene expression in the cell. This book is aimed at both industry- and academic-based researchers in the Biopharmaceutical production space who wish to learn more about these fascinating molecules. It provides an overview of what is currently known about microRNAs including:

· a description of their biogenesis and mode of action

· how they can be detected and measured

· methods for predicting their target genes

· how we can manipulate their levels in the cell

· what lessons can be learned from their behaviour in cancer cells

Most importantly this volume addresses how microRNAs might be utilised in the bioprocess setting to:

· gain new understanding of CHO cell biology

· design microRNAs expression engineering strategies to influence cell characteristics such as proliferation rate or recombinant protein productivity

· predict phenotypic outcomes in cell line development projects

Focused manuscript on the potential use/role of miRNAs in bioprocessing, specifically the production of complex proteins in mammalian cells. With that in mind I propose a draft list of topics/chapters along the following lines: Intro on CHO/bioprocessing/engineering challenges to set scene, Genomic organization, biogenesis and mode of action, Identifying miRNA targets: Computational prediction, transcriptomics, proteomices, UTR analysis, etc., miRNA expression in Chinese Hamster Ovary cells, miRNAs as engineering targets: pathway manipulation to impact bioprocess phenotypes, miRNAs as biomarkers, Detection methods: Northern, PCR, hybridization arrays, Next Gen Seq, Manipulation of expression in cultured cells: Transient/stable disregulation, Knockout.

Preface.-1 A general introduction to microRNAs, their investigation and exploitation in CHO cell lines.-2 Biogenesis of Mammalian miRNA.-3 Target prediction algorithms and bioinformatics resources for miRNA studies.-4 The CHO miRNA transcriptome.-5 MicroRNAs as engineering targets - pathway manipulation to impact bioprocess phenotypes.-6 MicroRNAs for Enhancement of CHO Cell Proliferation and Stability Insights from Neuroblastoma Studies.-7 MicroRNA Detection Methods for Mammalian Cell Lines and Their Applications in Therapeutic Protein Production.-8 Manipulating Levels of Specific microRNAs in Mammalian Cells.- Index.