microRNA 890 (miR-890)

microRNA 890 (miR-890) is a small, non-coding RNA molecule that functions as part of the microRNA family, regulating gene expression post-transcriptionally[5]. It binds to complementary sequences in messenger RNA (mRNA) targets, leading to suppression or degradation of the mRNA, thereby influencing cellular protein output[5]. miR-890 specifically has been shown to modulate DNA damage response and DNA repair pathways by targeting multiple genes (including MAD2L2, WEE1, XPC, KU80), thereby sensitizing cancer cells—especially prostate cancer cells—to ionizing radiation in both in vitro and in vivo models[1]. It is a member of the epididymis-specific miR-888 cluster, suggesting possible tissue-specific roles beyond cancer, including in sperm maturation[3]. Therapeutically, miR-890 is being investigated as a radiosensitizing agent, but not as a conventional drug target (such as a receptor, enzyme, or transporter)[1]. There are no known approved drugs targeting miR-890, but preclinical studies use miR-890 mimetics. The main therapeutic interest in miR-890 arises from its capacity to simultaneously regulate multiple components of the DNA repair machinery, thereby enhancing the efficacy of DNA-damaging cancer therapies[1].

Other names

hsa-mir-890MIRN890MIR890

miRNA mimetic: Sensitizes tumor cells to DNA-damaging therapies (such as ionizing radiation) by downregulating multiple DNA repair genes including MAD2L2, WEE1, XPC, and KU80[1].