MicroRNA-223 (miR-223)

MicroRNA-223 (miR-223) is a highly conserved, hematopoietic-specific microRNA that plays a pivotal role in the regulation of myeloid lineage development, particularly in promoting granulocytic differentiation while suppressing erythrocytic and monocytic pathways. It is primarily expressed in neutrophils and macrophages, where it acts as a critical inflammatory rheostat by negatively regulating the NLRP3 inflammasome and various pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-1β and IL-6. In the context of oncology, miR-223 exhibits a dual role, functioning as a tumor suppressor in cancers such as acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), while acting as an oncomiR in gastric and colon cancers. Its dysregulation is also linked to metabolic disorders, including type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, where it modulates cholesterol metabolism and insulin sensitivity. Although no miR-223-specific therapies are currently FDA-approved, therapeutic strategies involving miR-223 mimics to restore its suppressive function or antagomirs to inhibit its oncogenic activity are under active preclinical investigation. Additionally, circulating levels of miR-223 in biofluids are being explored as non-invasive biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of sepsis, tuberculosis, and various malignancies.

Other names

MIR223MIRN223hsa-mir-223hsa-miR-223-3phsa-miR-223-5p

Post-transcriptional gene silencing via mRNA degradation or translational inhibition of target genes such as NLRP3, E2F1, FBXW7, and IGF-1R.