microRNA-934 (miR-934)

microRNA-934 is a primate-specific small non-coding RNA (microRNA) of about 20–24 nucleotides that regulates gene expression at the post-transcriptional level by binding to the 3' untranslated regions of target messenger RNAs. miR-934 is overexpressed in several cancers, including colorectal, pancreatic, and ovarian cancer, where it functions as an oncogene by promoting cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis, primarily through targeting genes such as BTG2 and DKK2, and by modulating Wnt/β-catenin signaling. In neurogenesis, miR-934 is highly expressed in neural precursor cells and directly regulates the transition from progenitor to neuroblast, influencing differentiation, neurite growth, and signals involved in the cortical subplate. Its species specificity suggests roles in evolutionary development of primate brain function and possible contributions to neurodevelopmental pathologies. Exosomal miR-934 may also drive metastasis by modifying the tumor microenvironment.

Other names

hsa-mir-934MIRN934mir-934MIR934

Regulation via sequence-specific binding to target mRNAs, leading to mRNA degradation or translational inhibition. Specific targeting of B-cell translocation gene 2 (BTG2) in colorectal cancer. Regulatory axis with Dickkopf-related protein 2 (DKK2), modulating Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Modulates FZD5 (Frizzled receptor 5) and β-catenin pathway in neurogenesis.