Relationship between Steroid Receptors and microRNAs

Steroid receptors (SRs) are ligand-dependent transcription factors. These receptors are subfamilies of nuclear receptors (NRs) superfamily. It is believed that NRs are derived from one common ancestor through evolution, and all harbor a common structure containing five main regions. These receptors may be classified into two groups according to their mechanism of action: homodimer and heterodimer receptors. The receptors are activated through different pathways based on their position in the nucleus or cytoplasm. Recent studies demonstrate that SRs regulate miRNAs, and in turn, miRNAs can regulate SR expression and function. In the present study, the molecular mechanisms of steroid receptors, their relationships with miRNA and genetic disease have been reviewed.