MicroRNA 4488 (miR-4488)

MicroRNA 4488 (miR-4488) is a small (20–24 nucleotides) non-coding RNA molecule involved in the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression, primarily by binding to the 3’ UTR of specific mRNAs to inhibit their translation or induce degradation. MIR4488 has been studied as both a biomarker and possible contributor to disease mechanisms: its serum levels are elevated in patients with lean nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), making it a candidate diagnostic and mechanistic biomarker in that population. In cancer, particularly melanoma, miR-4488 is upregulated in drug-resistant cells, where it promotes migratory and invasive cell phenotypes—mainly through repression of the intermediate filament protein nestin and associated cytoskeletal remodeling. These oncomiR properties suggest that miR-4488 may be a therapeutic target or a component in targeted miRNA-based therapies, although no direct small-molecule drugs for this microRNA are currently known.

Other names

hsa-mir-4488MIR4488mir-4488

Functions by binding to the 3’ untranslated region (UTR) of target mRNAs, leading to their degradation or translational repression. Directly downregulates targets such as nestin, affecting cellular architecture and behavior.