Enrichment Analysis of miRNA Targets

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of ∼22-nucleotide endogenous noncoding RNAs which regulate target gene expression via repressing translation or promoting mRNAs degradation. Any individual mammalian miRNA often has more than a hundred predicted mRNA targets and that close to one thirds of all mRNA transcripts bear one or more conserved miRNA binding sites in their 3'-untranslated region. Enrichment analysis of miRNA targets has become a standard technique to elucidating hierarchical functions of miRNAs in gene regulatory networks. In this protocol, we discuss analytical methods and use of computational tools in a step-by-step manner. Important details are also provided to help researchers choose more appropriate tools for a given type of analysis. Available Web-based resources for enrichment analysis of miRNA targets are summarized.