MicroRNA 29a (miR-29a)

MicroRNA 29a (miR-29a) is a highly conserved small non-coding RNA that post-transcriptionally regulates expression of multiple genes by binding complementary sequences in the 3′ untranslated regions (UTRs) of target mRNAs, leading to their degradation or translational repression. miR-29a is part of the miR-29 family (including miR-29b and miR-29c) and is mainly transcribed from chromosome 7q32.3. It plays important roles in controlling cell proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation, and extracellular matrix remodeling, acting as a major tumor suppressor by inhibiting genes related to metastasis (e.g., CDC42, CEACAM6) and downregulating pro-fibrotic proteins such as collagens and elastin. miR-29a is frequently downregulated in diverse cancers and fibrotic conditions, and its restoration with oligonucleotide mimics is being investigated therapeutically. It also regulates immune function, angiogenesis (especially in the eye), glucose metabolism, and tissue responses to injury. Its expression levels can serve as diagnostic and predictive biomarkers. Although promising as a therapeutic target, modulation of miR-29a may challenge safety due to its broad regulatory functions across multiple tissues.

Other names

hsa-miR-29aMIR29AmiRNA29AmiR-29amicroRNA 29MIRN29AMIRN29hsa-mir-29ahsa-mir-29

Replacement therapy (miR-29 mimics) to restore downregulated levels in disease (e.g., fibrosis, cancer); Post-transcriptional gene silencing via targeting mRNAs coding for extracellular matrix proteins, angiogenic factors, and cell cycle regulators; Direct targeting of specific mRNA (e.g., CDC42 in NSCLC, collagens, soluble ST2)