MicroRNA 612 (miR-612)

MicroRNA 612 (miR-612) is a small non-coding RNA belonging to the microRNA family, playing a regulatory role in post-transcriptional gene expression by binding to target mRNAs and promoting their degradation or translational inhibition[3]. It is canonically recognized as a tumor suppressor microRNA, with low expression associated with poor prognosis and increased metastasis in several human cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma, melanoma, bladder, and breast cancer[1][2][4][5]. miR-612 suppresses cellular proliferation, migration, invasion, and promotes cell death via ferroptosis, partly through regulation of targets like HADHA and Espin[1][2]. While not a classical drug target (such as a protein receptor or enzyme), miR-612 itself is under investigation as a therapeutic agent via miRNA replacement strategies, and its expression levels serve as a promising biomarker for cancer progression and therapeutic response[2][3].

Other names

hsa-mir-612MIR612MIRN612

Gene silencing via RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC), leading to translational inhibition or degradation of target mRNAs[3]; Downregulation of specific targets such as HADHA (in HCC) and Espin (in melanoma), affecting pathways like lipid metabolism, EMT, and cell cycle[1][2]; Sensitization to chemotherapeutics (e.g., increasing doxorubicin sensitivity in melanoma)[2]