The Open Access journal Genomics Proteomics & Bioinformatics (GPB) is now inviting submissions for a special issue (to be published around October 2012) on the topic of “microRNAs”.

microRNAs (or miRNAs)  are a class of small endogenous non-coding RNA molecules found in plants, animals and viruses. miRNAs can regulate protein expression by complementary binding to its target sequences in mRNA, and they play critical roles in various biological processes. Moreover, abnormal expression or deregulation of various miRNAs is observed in pathological conditions such as cancer and diabetes. Consequently, miRNAs have attracted wide attention because of their unique functional significance and potential as biomarkers and therapeutic tools.

Here GPB announce a special issue on “microRNAs” to act as both a focus and a stimulus for research on these key regulatory RNA molecules. Dr. Tongbin LI from LC Sciences, LLC, Houston, TX and Dr. William CHO from Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong will be the Guest Editors of this issue. The aim is to provide a platform for publication of high-quality papers on recent advances and developments in this important area. The topics may include but not limited to the prediction and identification of miRNA in various species, prediction of miRNA target genes, genetic networks involving miRNAs, function and evolution of miRNAs, and their involvement in diseases. Original studies, reviews, reports, methods, application notes, etc are all welcome. The portfolio will be open for incoming manuscripts till June 30, 2012.

Manuscripts can be submitted online at http://ees.elsevier.com/gpb/. The Guide for Authors is also available on this web site. Note to mention that the submission is for this special issue.

For further information please contact Dr. Li (toli@biolead.org), Dr. Cho (chocs@ha.org.hk), or the Editorial Office of GPB (editor@big.ac.cn; Tel: +86-10-82995372; Fax: +86-10-82995373).