microRNA-146a (miR-146a)

microRNA-146a (miR-146a) is a short, non-coding RNA molecule (~22 nucleotides) that plays a crucial role in post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression, particularly in the innate immune system and inflammatory processes. miR-146a is encoded on human chromosome 5q33.3 and is induced by inflammatory stimuli via NF-κB activation. Its main regulatory targets are IRAK1 and TRAF6, both central to toll-like receptor (TLR) and cytokine signaling, where miR-146a acts as a negative feedback modulator, preventing excessive inflammatory responses and contributing to immune tolerance. Loss or dysregulation of miR-146a is implicated in a range of diseases including cancer, autoimmunity, myelodysplastic syndrome, osteoarthritis, neurodegeneration, and cardiovascular disease. It serves as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in several pathological states and is being explored as a therapeutic target, notably for its anti-inflammatory properties. However, manipulation of miR-146a activity requires caution due to potential adverse effects on normal immune and proliferative functions.

Other names

hsa-mir-146aMIR146Ahsa-mir-146MIRN146MIRN146AmiRNA146AmiR-146amiR-146MIR146

Negative regulation of gene expression via RNA interference. Downregulation of target genes such as IRAK1 and TRAF6 (key intermediates in inflammatory and immune signaling). Modulation of toll-like receptor (TLR) and NF-κB signaling pathways. Regulation of differentiation and proliferation in immune cells.