MicroRNA 542-3p (miR-542-3p)

MicroRNA 542-3p (miR-542-3p) is a small non-coding RNA molecule that plays a critical role in the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression by binding to the 3' untranslated regions (UTRs) of target mRNAs [PMID: 25633795]. It typically functions as a tumor suppressor and is frequently downregulated in various malignancies, including osteosarcoma, breast cancer, and lung cancer [PMID: 28415787, PMID: 27105512]. By targeting oncogenic factors such as BIRC5 (survivin) and members of the TGF-beta signaling pathway, miR-542-3p inhibits cell proliferation, induces apoptosis, and suppresses the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) [PMID: 25633795, PMID: 21931756]. Beyond oncology, miR-542-3p is involved in bone metabolism, where it has been shown to inhibit osteoblast differentiation by targeting BMP-2, suggesting a role in osteoporosis [PMID: 26463130]. As a therapeutic target, miR-542-3p mimics are being explored in preclinical studies to restore its suppressive functions in cancer cells, while antagomirs are used to investigate its role in other pathological states. However, clinical translation is currently limited by challenges in achieving stable, tissue-specific delivery and the potential for off-target effects on the global transcriptome [PMID: 23733467].

Other names

hsa-miR-542-3pMIR542miRNA-542-3p

Post-transcriptional gene silencing through mRNA degradation or translational inhibition by binding to the 3' untranslated region (UTR) of target messenger RNAs.