MicroRNA 188 (miR-188)

MicroRNA 188 is a short, non-coding RNA molecule (approximately 22 nucleotides) that regulates gene expression post-transcriptionally by binding to complementary sequences in the 3′-UTR of target mRNAs and blocking their translation or triggering degradation. It has been identified as a regulator of cell lineage commitment in bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (promoting adipogenesis at the expense of osteogenesis during aging) and plays roles in synaptic plasticity in neurons by downregulating specific targets such as neuropilin-2. In multiple cancers, miR-188 acts predominantly as a tumor suppressor, with low expression linked to poor prognosis; it directly targets several oncogenes and regulators including MDK, IGF2BP2, LAPTM4B, FGF5, and SIX1 in different tumor contexts. Experimental inhibition of miR-188 in bone marrow (using antagomiRs) has been shown to reduce age-related bone loss in animal models, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target for metabolic bone diseases and certain cancers. No approved drugs are currently known that specifically target miR-188, but nucleic-acid-based experimental agents have been tested in preclinical studies.

Other names

MIR188hsa-mir-188MIRN188miR-188

AntagomiR-188: Inhibits miR-188 function, derepresses targets (HDAC9, RICTOR) to promote osteogenesis and prevent age-related bone loss. No small molecules or conventional drugs reported to directly modulate miR-188