miR-663a

miR-663a is a microRNA that functions as a tumor suppressor, particularly in the context of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). It is frequently epigenetically silenced in PDAC tissues and cell lines. Restoration of miR-663a expression—either through synthetic mimics or via epigenetic reactivation using agents like 3-deazaneplanocin-A (DZNep)—has been shown to inhibit tumor progression. miR-663a acts by directly targeting the 3' untranslated region (UTR) of Transforming Growth Factor Beta 1 (TGF-β1) mRNA, leading to its degradation or translational inhibition. This suppression of the TGF-β1 signaling pathway attenuates the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a key process in cancer metastasis and chemoresistance. Preclinical studies in orthotopic mouse models have demonstrated that miR-663a overexpression significantly reduces tumor burden and metastatic spread to the liver, lungs, and spleen.

Other names

microRNA-663amicroRNA663amicroRNA 663a