microRNA 944 (miR-944)

microRNA 944 (miR-944) is a small, non-coding RNA molecule (∼22 nucleotides) encoded within intron 4 of the TP63 gene (3q28). As a microRNA, it negatively regulates gene expression post-transcriptionally by binding to the 3' untranslated regions of multiple target mRNAs, resulting in their degradation or inhibition of translation. miR-944 is dysregulated in a wide range of cancers, including cervical, breast, colorectal, and lung, among others. It has been shown to target at least 27 protein-coding genes involved in cell cycle, proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion, and drug resistance. Key signaling pathways regulated by miR-944 include the Wnt/β-catenin, Jak/STAT3, and PI3K/AKT pathways. In various contexts, miR-944 can function as an oncogene or tumor suppressor. Experimentally, its abnormal expression is associated with tumor progression, therapy resistance, and unfavorable prognosis, making it both a potential prognostic biomarker and a candidate therapeutic target for certain malignancies[1][2][3].

Other names

hsa-mir-944MIRN944mir-944MIR944

Modulation of drug resistance through gene regulation. Regulation of cell signaling pathways (Wnt/β-catenin, Jak/STAT3, PI3K/AKT). Targeting of specific oncogenes/tumor suppressor genes for post-transcriptional silencing.