MicroRNA 31-5p (miR-31-5p)

MicroRNA 31-5p (miR-31-5p) is a small, non-coding RNA molecule that plays a critical role in the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression by binding to the 3' untranslated regions (UTRs) of target messenger RNAs. It is part of a complex regulatory network involving various long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs that act as 'sponges' to modulate its availability and activity. In clinical oncology, miR-31-5p is frequently identified as an oncomiR, particularly in colorectal cancer, where its overexpression is associated with poor prognosis and resistance to anti-EGFR therapies. Conversely, in certain other contexts like breast cancer, it may function as a tumor suppressor by inhibiting metastasis. Therapeutic strategies targeting this network primarily involve the use of synthetic antagomirs to silence its activity or mimics to restore it, though these remain largely in the preclinical or early clinical stages of development. The 'miR-31-5p–associated regulatory network' refers to the systemic interaction between this miRNA and its upstream regulators and downstream effectors, rather than a single druggable protein.

Other names

hsa-miR-31-5pMIR31MicroRNA 31miR-31

Antisense inhibition of microRNA activity (antagomirs) or restoration of microRNA function (mimics) to modulate downstream mRNA translation and stability.