MicroRNA 128-2 (miR-128-2)

MicroRNA 128-2 (miR-128-2) is a non-coding, regulatory RNA, part of the microRNA family, encoded within the ARPP21 gene on chromosome 3p22.3 in humans[1][3]. miR-128-2 acts post-transcriptionally, silencing target mRNAs by promoting translational repression or mRNA degradation through the RNA-induced silencing complex[2]. During development, miR-128-2 plays a key role in neuronal differentiation and function, as well as in muscle, adipose, and osteoclast biology[1]. In cancer, miR-128-2 has dual roles: it can suppress tumor growth and metastasis by targeting genes involved in cell proliferation and apoptosis (e.g., BMI-1, E2F5), but in certain contexts, its upregulation—such as in p53-mutant lung cancer—can promote chemoresistance and reduce apoptosis, thereby modulating responses to agents like cisplatin, doxorubicin, and 5-fluorouracil[1][3]. Variations in its expression are implicated in cancer, neurodegeneration, cardiovascular disease, and tissue regeneration[1]. Note: miR-128 exists as two isoforms—miR-128-1 and miR-128-2—which share the same mature miRNA sequence but are encoded at different loci; this entry focuses specifically on the miR-128-2 variant[1].

Other names

hsa-mir-128bhsa-mir-128-2MIR128BMIRN128-2MIRN128Bmir-128-2mir-128bmicroRNA 128b

Drugs' effectiveness is altered by miR-128-2 via regulation of apoptosis and drug resistance genes; miR-128-2 regulates chemoresistance by inhibiting apoptosis in cancer cells[3]