microRNA-33b (miR-33b)

microRNA-33b (miR-33b) is a primate-specific microRNA located within the intronic region of the sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 (SREBF1) gene. It serves as a master regulator of lipid and glucose metabolism by post-transcriptionally silencing genes involved in cholesterol efflux (such as ABCA1) and fatty acid oxidation (such as CPT1A). Dysregulation of miR-33b is strongly associated with metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, dyslipidemia, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. In addition to its metabolic roles, miR-33b acts as a tumor suppressor in various cancers by inhibiting cell proliferation and migration. Therapeutic strategies targeting miR-33b, primarily using antisense oligonucleotides, are being investigated to improve lipid profiles and treat metabolic disorders, although systemic inhibition requires careful management to avoid side effects like obesity.

Other names

MIR33Bhsa-miR-33bmicroRNA 33b-5pmicroRNA 33b-3p

Post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression by binding to the 3-untranslated regions (3-UTRs) of target messenger RNAs (mRNAs), leading to translational repression or mRNA degradation.