MicroRNA 378a-3p (miR-378a-3p)

MicroRNA 378a-3p (miR-378a-3p) is a small non-coding RNA molecule that serves as a key post-transcriptional regulator of gene expression [NIH, PMC4623430]. It is uniquely hosted within the first intron of the PPARGC1B gene, which encodes the metabolic coactivator PGC-1β, linking its expression to mitochondrial biogenesis and oxidative metabolism [NIH, PMC7801314]. miR-378a-3p functions by binding to the 3' untranslated regions (UTRs) of various target mRNAs, such as IGF1R, LDHA, and ODC1, thereby inhibiting their translation or promoting their degradation [NIH, PMC4623430; NIH, PMC9717544]. This regulatory activity impacts a wide range of biological processes, including energy homeostasis, cell proliferation, apoptosis, and angiogenesis [NIH, PMC4623430]. In clinical contexts, miR-378a-3p is recognized for its cardioprotective roles and its dual function in oncology, where it can act as either a tumor suppressor or an oncomiR depending on the tissue type [NIH, PMC8143984]. Therapeutic interest in this molecule involves the use of miRNA mimics or antagomirs to modulate its levels, and its expression is known to be influenced by the anti-diabetic drug metformin [NIH, PMC7801314].

Other names

miR-378miR-378ahsa-miR-378a-3phsa-miR-422bMIRN378

miR-378a-3p regulates gene expression post-transcriptionally by binding to the 3' untranslated region (UTR) of target mRNAs, leading to mRNA degradation or translational inhibition [NIH, PMC4623430]. Drugs targeting this molecule work by either competitively inhibiting its binding (antagomirs) or restoring its regulatory function (mimics) [NIH, PMC8143984].