microRNA 4291 (MIR4291)

microRNA 4291 (MIR4291) is a small, single-stranded, non-coding RNA molecule (typically 20–24 nucleotides) primarily responsible for post-transcriptional gene regulation by binding target messenger RNAs (mRNAs) usually at the 3′ untranslated region, leading to inhibition of translation or mRNA degradation[5][2][3][4]. MIR4291 is a member of the miR-214 family and has been shown to play a regulatory role in cardiovascular disease, particularly atherosclerosis, by stabilizing plaques via reduction of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity and pro-inflammatory cytokine expression; it is differentially expressed in certain vascular pathologies and may serve as a potential biomarker or therapeutic target for disease modulation[1][5]. No FDA-approved drugs directly target miR-4291 as of September 2025, but preclinical models show miR-4291 mimics stabilize atherosclerotic plaques via inhibition of ERK2, MMP-2, and MMP-9, suggesting therapeutic potential[1]. Delivery and safety issues remain challenges for miRNA-targeting medicines[2][4].

Other names

MIR4291hsa-mir-4291microRNA 4291miR-4291

miRNA mimics: Increase miR-4291 level, leading to ERK2 inhibition, reduced MMP expression, and plaque stabilization. miRNA inhibitors: Could theoretically counter endogenous miR-4291 function.