B-cell lymphoma 2 messenger RNA 3' untranslated region (BCL2 mRNA 3'UTR)

The B-cell lymphoma 2 messenger RNA 3' untranslated region (BCL2 mRNA 3'UTR) is a critical regulatory segment of the BCL2 transcript that governs the stability and translational efficiency of the BCL2 protein, a key anti-apoptotic factor [1, 2]. This region contains several AU-rich elements (AREs) that serve as binding sites for various RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) like nucleolin, HuR, and AUF1, as well as numerous microRNAs (miRNAs) such as the miR-15/16 cluster [3, 6]. In many cancers, the BCL2 mRNA 3'UTR is involved in the overexpression of BCL2, which allows malignant cells to evade apoptosis and develop resistance to chemotherapy [4, 8]. Consequently, the 3'UTR has emerged as a strategic therapeutic target for antisense oligonucleotides, synthetic miRNAs, and small molecules designed to destabilize the mRNA or block its translation [1, 17]. Targeting this region aims to restore apoptotic sensitivity in tumor cells, particularly in hematological malignancies and solid tumors where BCL2 dysregulation is a hallmark [7, 15]. Beyond oncology, the BCL2 mRNA 3'UTR is also implicated in the regulation of immune responses and the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases like Type 1 diabetes [9, 19].

Other names

BCL2 3'-UTRBCL2 3' untranslated regionB-cell lymphoma 2 3'UTRBCL2 3'UTR

Modulation of mRNA stability and translation through interaction with AU-rich elements (AREs), RNA-binding proteins (e.g., nucleolin, HuR), and microRNAs to induce BCL2 downregulation and promote apoptosis [1, 3, 8].