microRNA 301a (miR-301a)

microRNA 301a (miR-301a) is a highly conserved, small, non-coding RNA that regulates gene expression post-transcriptionally by binding to complementary sequences in the 3’-UTR of target mRNAs, leading to downregulation of protein expression[1][4][5]. miR-301a plays a crucial role in promoting cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in various cancers, such as nasopharyngeal carcinoma, colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, and others[1][4][5]. It can promote oncogenesis by repressing multiple tumor suppressor genes, including BTG1, TGFBR2, SOCS5, PTEN, and ESR1[1][4]. miR-301a also regulates immune responses, especially T-helper 17 (Th17) cell differentiation, via the STAT3 pathway, and modulates NF-κB signaling, making it relevant for inflammatory and neuroinflammatory diseases[2][5]. Its robust upregulation is associated with higher cancer aggressiveness, poor prognosis, and supports its development as a potential therapeutic target and biomarker for cancer and inflammatory diseases[1][2][3][5].

Other names

hsa-mir-301hsa-mir-301aMIR301MIRN301MIRN301Amir-301amicroRNA 301MIR301A

Downregulation of target mRNAs via 3'-UTR binding, inhibiting protein translation; Activation of NF-κB pathway; Regulation of STAT3 signaling and Th17 cell development