MicroRNA 603 (miR-603)

MicroRNA 603 (miR-603) is a primate-specific, intronic microRNA encoded by the MIR603 gene, predominantly expressed in human brain and various cancer tissues[1][5]. It functions as a post-transcriptional regulator by binding the 3′ untranslated regions of target mRNAs and downregulating their expression. Key biological roles include control of cell proliferation and apoptosis—acting either as an oncogene or tumor suppressor depending on tissue and disease context[1][2][4][6]. Notable targets include LRPAP1 (implicated in Alzheimer’s disease), E2F1 (a neuronal apoptotic regulator), BRCC2 (in osteosarcoma), and eEF2K (in triple-negative breast cancer)[1][2][4]. miR-603 dysregulation is associated with various malignancies (promoting or inhibiting tumor growth), neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, and may modulate apoptosis pathways and chemo-resistance[1][4][6][7]. The presence of certain SNPs (such as rs11014002) in its precursor region correlates with altered Alzheimer’s risk and variable miR-603 biogenesis[1]. Due to its regulatory effects on genes central to cancer and neuronal survival, miR-603 is under investigation as a potential therapeutic target and biomarker, especially in gene therapy and antisense inhibitory strategies.

Other names

MIR603hsa-mir-603MIRN603

Gene silencing by RNA interference; Downregulation of specific target proteins via binding to mRNA 3′UTR (e.g., LRPAP1, E2F1, BRCC2, eEF2K)[1][2][4]