MicroRNA 627 (miR-627)

MicroRNA 627 (miR-627) is a small, non-coding RNA molecule in humans, encoded by the MIR627 gene, that functions as a post-transcriptional regulator of gene expression[3]. miR-627 binds to the 3'-untranslated regions (3’-UTRs) of target mRNAs, leading to mRNA degradation or translational repression, thereby influencing key biological processes such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, and differentiation[2][3]. In cancer, particularly colorectal cancer, miR-627-5p has been shown to act as a tumor suppressor by directly targeting Wnt2 and inhibiting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, causing reduced cell proliferation and increased apoptosis[2]. miR-627 is also induced by calcitriol (active vitamin D), mediating its antiproliferative and epigenetic effects by downregulating JMJD1A, a histone demethylase, consequently increasing H3K9 methylation and suppressing oncogenic gene expression[4]. Expression of miR-627 is decreased in several cancers, including colorectal cancer, and its circulating levels are being investigated as non-invasive disease biomarkers[4][5]. Because of these functions, miR-627 is considered a promising therapeutic target and biomarker in cancer research.

Other names

MIR627MIRN627hsa-mir-627mir-627microRNA 627

miR-627–mimics or agents upregulating miR-627 may suppress tumor development by inhibiting target genes (e.g., JMJD1A, Wnt2) Calcitriol acts, in part, by upregulating miR-627, leading to epigenetic silencing of proliferative genes