Microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) mRNA (MITF mRNA)

Microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) mRNA encodes a basic helix-loop-helix leucine zipper transcription factor that serves as the master regulator of melanocyte development, survival, and pigmentation [1, 2]. It orchestrates the expression of essential melanogenic enzymes like tyrosinase and regulates critical survival genes such as BCL2 [3]. In melanoma, MITF functions as a lineage-specific oncogene; its dysregulation is frequently associated with tumor progression, survival, and resistance to BRAF/MEK inhibitors [4]. Targeting MITF mRNA via antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) or RNA interference (RNAi) is a therapeutic strategy designed to downregulate MITF protein levels, thereby inhibiting tumor growth and sensitizing cells to other treatments [5]. However, therapeutic intervention faces challenges such as the MITF rheostat model, where low MITF levels can trigger a switch to a more invasive, slow-cycling phenotype, and potential side effects like vitiligo-like depigmentation [6].

Other names

Melanocyte-specific transcription factorbHLHe32WS2ATietz syndrome proteinMicrophthalmia-associated transcription factor

Antisense oligonucleotide-mediated mRNA degradation