3' untranslated region of specific mRNA regulated by miR-140-3p (miR-140-3p target 3' UTR)

The 3' untranslated regions (UTRs) of specific mRNAs regulated by miR-140-3p are essential regulatory segments that control gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. miR-140-3p is a microRNA primarily known for its high expression in chondrocytes, where it maintains cartilage integrity by regulating the turnover of the extracellular matrix (Miyaki et al., 2010). By binding to the 3' UTRs of target genes such as ADAMTS5, HDAC4, and CXCL12, miR-140-3p triggers mRNA degradation or inhibits protein translation (Karlsen et al., 2014). In pathological conditions like osteoarthritis, the downregulation of miR-140-3p leads to the uncontrolled expression of these targets, resulting in progressive joint destruction (Li et al., 2018). Beyond skeletal health, miR-140-3p acts as a tumor suppressor in various cancers, including lung and breast cancer, by targeting mRNAs that drive cell proliferation and invasion (Si et al., 2017). Therapeutic strategies aim to modulate these interactions using miR-140-3p mimics to restore silencing of pathogenic genes or antagomirs to upregulate beneficial targets. However, the therapeutic application is complicated by the fact that a single microRNA can regulate hundreds of different 3' UTRs, potentially leading to unintended off-target effects. Effective delivery to specific tissues, such as avascular cartilage or solid tumors, remains a significant hurdle in the development of drugs targeting these regions.

Other names

miR-140-3p binding sites3' UTR of miR-140-3p target genesMicroRNA-140-3p targets

MicroRNA-140-3p binds to complementary sequences within the 3' untranslated regions of target mRNAs, leading to mRNA degradation or translational repression via the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC).