MicroRNA-101

MicroRNA-101 (miR-101) is a non-coding RNA that plays a crucial role in cartilage development and destruction. It epigenetically regulates integrin-α1 expression by targeting DNA methyltransferase 3B (DNMT-3B). Upregulation of miR-101 leads to the inhibition of DNMT-3B, which in turn alters the methylation of integrin-α1, a positive regulator of endochondral ossification. Conversely, downregulation of miR-101 results in increased DNMT-3B and decreased integrin-α1, contributing to cartilage destruction. Preclinical studies have shown that introducing miR-101 via lentiviruses can reduce cartilage destruction in animal models of osteoarthritis, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic target for cartilage-related diseases.