microRNA 618 (miR-618)

microRNA 618 (miR-618) is a small, non-coding RNA molecule comprising 98 nucleotides, transcribed from the MIR618 gene located on chromosome 12[1]. Like other microRNAs, miR-618 regulates gene expression post-transcriptionally, primarily by binding to complementary sequences in the 3′ untranslated regions of messenger RNAs, thereby affecting their translation and stability[1]. Aberrant expression of miR-618 has been implicated in a variety of cancers, where it can function either as a tumor suppressor or oncogene depending on context[1][3]. Notably, miR-618 suppresses cancer cell migration and invasion, particularly in prostate cancer by targeting FOXP2 and modulating TGF-β signaling; it also affects the PI3K/Akt pathway relevant to cell proliferation and survival[2][3]. Circulating levels of miR-618 and specific genetic variants (such as rs2682818) are associated with cancer risk and outcome, making miR-618 a candidate for use as a biomarker for diagnosis/prognosis and as a potential therapeutic target[1][3]. Delivery of miR-618 through experimental nanovector systems is under investigation for cancer therapy[2].

Other names

hsa-mir-618MIR618MIRN618mir-618

Tumor suppression by targeting FOXP2 and inhibiting downstream TGF-β signaling[2][3] Negative regulation of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in several cancer types (e.g., thyroid, gastric, prostate)[3]