MicroRNA-138-1 (miR-138-1)

MicroRNA-138-1 (miR-138-1) is a short non-coding RNA molecule encoded by the MIR138-1 gene, primarily functioning in post-transcriptional gene silencing by guiding the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) to complementary sequences in target mRNAs. miR-138-1 is derived from chromosome 3 (3p21) and acts as either a tumor suppressor or oncomiR, depending on cell type and disease context. It regulates multiple pathways involved in cell cycle progression, apoptosis, proliferation, immune checkpoint regulation, and neuronal dendritic spine morphogenesis. Dysregulation of miR-138-1 is observed in numerous cancers, including prostate, glioma, breast, and lung, where it targets oncogenes (e.g., CCND1, EZH2, EGFR) or immune checkpoint molecules (PD-1, CTLA-4), affecting tumor progression and patient prognosis. miR-138-1 also plays a role in normal neuronal function and memory. Its expression level is a promising biomarker for diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic targeting, though miRNA-based therapies targeting miR-138-1 must carefully consider context-dependent effects and safety concerns[4][5][1].

Other names

hsa-mir-138-1MIR138-1MIRN138-1mir-138-1

miRNA mimics: increase/downregulate miR-138-1 activity to suppress oncogene expression or block its function (using inhibitors) Direct post-transcriptional regulation of target mRNA expression, typically resulting in repression of translation or mRNA degradation (for example, CCND1, EZH2, EGFR, PD-1, CTLA-4, etc.)