In which cellular compartment do miRNA precursors undergo processing?

Understand the Problem

The question is asking about the specific cellular location where miRNA precursors are processed. This involves understanding the roles of different cellular compartments such as the nucleus and cytoplasm in the maturation of miRNAs.

More Information

miRNA processing begins with pri-miRNA transcription in the nucleus. This is followed by cleavage of pri-miRNA into precursor miRNA (pre-miRNA) by the enzyme Drosha, still within the nucleus.

Tips

A common mistake is assuming all processing happens in one cellular compartment. Initial processing occurs in the nucleus, but some steps may happen in the cytoplasm.

Sources

• Mechanisms of control of microRNA biogenesis - Oxford Academic - academic.oup.com
• MicroRNAs: From Mechanism to Organism - Frontiers - frontiersin.org