Epigenetics, Noncoding RNAs, and Gene Expression

Epigenetic gene regulation by noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) is an expanding field of research that is still in its infancy. We now know that nonprotein coding RNAs play vital roles in many normal cellular processes and their dysregulation is associated with disease pathogenesis. Indeed, the field of ncRNAs has grown to a degree that a single review cannot cover the full scope of findings. Here, we will review and discuss microRNAs in the placenta during maternal obesity, long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in disease pathologies, and emerging roles of circular RNAs. Hopefully, this chapter will provide a useful review of the vast array of functions of ncRNAs.