MicroRNA 4779 (miR-4779)

MicroRNA 4779 (miR-4779) is a small, endogenous non-coding RNA molecule identified as a potent tumor suppressor in human colon cancer and other cancer cell lines. It functions primarily by binding to the 3' untranslated regions (UTRs) of specific target mRNAs, such as PAK2 (p21-activated kinase 2) and CCND3 (Cyclin D3), leading to their degradation or translational inhibition. This process induces cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase and triggers apoptosis, effectively suppressing tumor growth both in vitro and in xenograft mouse models. Expression of miR-4779 is significantly reduced in cancerous tissues compared to normal tissues, while the protein levels of its targets are elevated. Therapeutic strategies under investigation include the use of miR-4779 mimics for cancer therapy. Major advantages of miR-4779-based therapy include simultaneous downregulation of multiple oncogenic pathways, but technical and safety challenges restrict current use to research settings[1][2][3][4].

Other names

hsa-mir-4779MIR4779microRNA-4779

For mimics: Restoration of miR-4779 levels leads to suppression of cancer cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest via direct downregulation of PAK2 and CCND3. For inhibitors (antimiRs): Blocking endogenous miR-4779 results in increased cell proliferation by allowing higher expression of oncogenic targets.