MicroRNA-125b (miR-125b)

MicroRNA-125b (miR-125b) is a highly conserved small non-coding RNA (microRNA) that regulates gene expression at the post-transcriptional level by binding to complementary sequences in target messenger RNAs (mRNAs), often resulting in decreased stability or translation of these targets[1][6]. miR-125b plays essential roles in diverse physiological and pathological cellular processes, including regulation of cell differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis, growth, and immune responses[1][2][4][5]. Aberrant expression of miR-125b is implicated in the pathogenesis of many diseases, most notably cancer, where it can function either as a tumor suppressor or as an oncogene depending on the tissue and cellular context[3][6]. miR-125b also contributes to inflammation, neurodegeneration, and cardiovascular diseases, and has roles in embryonic development and immune cell function[1][2][7]. Its mechanisms include direct repression of protein-coding genes and modulation of epigenetic marks, such as targeting SUV39H1, a histone methyltransferase, leading to altered chromatin states[7]. While not yet targeted by approved drugs, miR-125b is a focus of intensive research for its therapeutic and biomarker potential, though its pleiotropic effects and broad target scope pose challenges for clinical translation[6].

Other names

miR-125b-5pmiR-125b-3phsa-miR-125b-1hsa-miR-125b-2microRNA 125b

Post-transcriptional regulation of mRNA targets (e.g. silencing, destabilization, or translational repression of target genes); Epigenetic regulation via targeting histone modifiers (e.g., SUV39H1)[7]; Modulation of signaling pathways including Wnt, PI3K/Akt, STAT3, MAPK, NF-κB, p53[6]