Lethal-7f microRNA (let-7f) (let-7f)

Mature let-7f microRNA is a member of the highly conserved lethal-7 (let-7) family of microRNAs, which are essential regulators of gene expression across various biological processes (Roush & Slack, 2008, Development). It primarily functions as a tumor suppressor by post-transcriptionally downregulating key oncogenes such as RAS, MYC, and HMGA2 (Johnson et al., 2005, Cell). In many human cancers, including lung, breast, and ovarian malignancies, let-7f expression is significantly reduced, which correlates with poor prognosis and tumor progression (Takamizawa et al., 2004, Cancer Research). Beyond its role in oncology, let-7f is involved in cardiovascular development and the modulation of inflammatory responses (Boyerinas et al., 2010, Cancer Research). Therapeutic approaches targeting let-7f include the use of synthetic microRNA mimics to restore its suppressive function or small molecules that inhibit Lin28, a protein that blocks let-7 maturation (Wang et al., 2015, Cell). Despite its therapeutic potential, challenges such as efficient delivery to target tissues and the risk of off-target effects remain significant hurdles in the development of let-7f-based therapies (Babar et al., 2012, Future Medicinal Chemistry). Additionally, the activation of the innate immune system by exogenous RNA molecules presents a safety concern for clinical application (Babar et al., 2012).

Other names

hsa-let-7f-5phsa-let-7f-1hsa-let-7f-2MicroRNA let-7fMIR7F1MIR7F2let-7f-5p

Binds to the 3' untranslated region (UTR) of target mRNAs via seed sequence complementarity, leading to translational inhibition or mRNA cleavage and degradation (Roush & Slack, 2008).