miR-202

miR-202 is a microRNA that functions as a tumor suppressor, particularly in the context of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). It is frequently epigenetically silenced during tumor progression, which facilitates the Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) and metastatic spread. miR-202 acts by targeting and inhibiting the expression of endogenous Transforming Growth Factor beta 1 (TGFβ1) ligands and their receptors through RNA interference. Restoration of miR-202 expression, either through epigenetic reprogramming using histone methyltransferase inhibitors like DZNep or via direct lentiviral overexpression, has been shown to reduce tumor cell proliferation and attenuate EMT phenotypic characteristics. In preclinical orthotopic mouse models of pancreatic cancer, miR-202 delivery significantly reduced overall tumor burden and metastatic load in the liver, lungs, and spleen.

Other names

microRNA-202microRNA202microRNA 202hsa-miR-202hsa-miR202hsa-miR 202