MicroRNA 766 (miR-766)

MicroRNA 766 is a small, non-coding RNA molecule, typically 18–24 nucleotides in length, that functions as a post-transcriptional regulator by binding to complementary sequences in target messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and inhibiting their expression. miR-766 has been reported to act either as an oncogene ("oncomiR") or a tumor suppressor, depending on cellular context, cancer type, and dysregulation levels. It influences various cancer-relevant processes such as cell proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis, and cell cycle regulation, with numerous identified mRNA targets including TRIM67, SOX6, SCAI, PTEN, HOXA9, PDCD5, CDKN1A, Caspase-3, Bax, NR3C2, YTHDF2, MDM4, FOSL2, SF2, and E2F3, among others. miR-766 is studied as both a biomarker (especially its exosomal form for cancer prognosis) and as a potential therapeutic target, with inhibition or modulation strategies under investigation in preclinical models. There are no approved drugs directly targeting miR-766 as of late 2025; its therapeutic manipulation remains experimental. The molecule does not appear to be misnamed or incorrectly classified.

Other names

hsa-mir-766MIR766MIRN766miR-766-3pmiR-766-5p

Antisense oligonucleotides or miRNA inhibitors (antagomirs) reduce miR-766 function, reactivating suppressed tumor suppressor genes or inhibiting oncogenic progression. RNA-based drugs and sponging agents (circRNAs, lncRNAs) sequester miR-766 and prevent its interaction with target mRNAs.