MicroRNA 143-3p (miR-143-3p)

MicroRNA 143-3p (miR-143-3p) is a mature, non-coding RNA molecule derived from the 3' arm of the pre-miR-143 precursor (NIH, 2024). It functions as a key post-transcriptional regulator by binding to the 3' untranslated regions (UTRs) of target messenger RNAs, resulting in gene silencing through mRNA degradation or translational repression (Oncology Reports, 2024). In the context of oncology, miR-143-3p is widely recognized as a tumor suppressor that is frequently downregulated in various cancers, including colorectal, lung, and breast cancer (Frontiers in Oncology, 2025). It exerts its anti-tumor effects by targeting critical oncogenic pathways, such as KRAS signaling and the Warburg effect via Hexokinase 2 inhibition (NIH, 2026). Beyond its role in cancer, miR-143-3p is vital for cardiovascular health, specifically in regulating the phenotypic switching of vascular smooth muscle cells (AHA Journals, 2020). It has also been identified as a potential biomarker for diseases like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and acute ischemic stroke (Cambridge University Press, 2025). Therapeutic strategies focus on the delivery of synthetic miR-143-3p mimics to restore its expression and inhibit tumor progression or sensitize cells to chemotherapy (ResearchGate, 2025). However, the clinical development of these therapies faces challenges related to off-target effects, potential immunogenicity, and the requirement for stable delivery vehicles (Frontiers in Oncology, 2025).

Other names

hsa-miR-143-3pMIR143miR-143Mature microRNA 143-3p

Binds to the 3' UTR of target mRNAs to induce mRNA degradation or translational repression