MicroRNA 204 (miR-204) (miR-204)

MicroRNA 204 (miR-204) is a small non-coding RNA that serves as a critical epigenetic regulator of pancreatic beta-cell function and glucose homeostasis (Xu et al., 2013, Diabetes). It is one of the most abundant miRNAs in human pancreatic islets and is specifically induced by Thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) under diabetic conditions (Jo et al., 2018, Nature Communications). miR-204 directly targets and downregulates the expression of the Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor (GLP1R) by binding to its 3' untranslated region (UTR). This downregulation leads to reduced beta-cell responsiveness to GLP-1, impaired insulin secretion, and increased beta-cell apoptosis, contributing to the progression of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Consequently, miR-204 is considered a potential therapeutic target; inhibiting its activity using antagomirs or antisense oligonucleotides could restore GLP1R expression and improve glycemic control (Shalev, 2014, Trends in Endocrinology & Metabolism). Beyond the pancreas, miR-204 is also involved in ocular development and various cancers, necessitating precise delivery mechanisms for metabolic therapy.

Other names

MIR204hsa-mir-204MicroRNA 204-5pmiR-204-5p

miR-204 binds to the 3' untranslated region (UTR) of the Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor (GLP1R) mRNA, leading to its degradation or translational inhibition, which subsequently reduces GLP1R protein expression and impairs GLP-1-mediated insulin secretion (Xu et al., 2013, Diabetes).