Plakophilin 4 mRNA 3' untranslated region (PKP4 mRNA 3' UTR) (PKP4 mRNA 3' UTR)

The Plakophilin 4 (PKP4) mRNA 3' untranslated region (UTR) is a critical regulatory segment of the PKP4 transcript, which encodes a member of the armadillo-repeat protein family involved in cell-cell adhesion and cytoskeletal organization (UniProt Q99569). This region contains multiple binding sites for microRNAs and RNA-binding proteins that dictate the stability and translational efficiency of the PKP4 message. In various malignancies, such as lung adenocarcinoma, dysregulation of the PKP4 mRNA 3' UTR—often through the loss of microRNA-mediated suppression by species like miR-328-3p or miR-495-3p—leads to the overexpression of the PKP4 protein (PMID: 30106434, PMID: 32441185). Overexpression of PKP4 is associated with increased cell proliferation, migration, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Consequently, the PKP4 mRNA 3' UTR is an emerging therapeutic target for RNA-based interventions, including antisense oligonucleotides and microRNA mimics designed to restore post-transcriptional control. Targeting this region aims to reduce the oncogenic potential of PKP4 by inducing mRNA degradation or blocking translation. Research continues to explore the specific regulatory networks involving this UTR to develop precision oncology treatments.

Other names

p0071 mRNA 3' UTRPKP4 3' UTRPlakophilin-4 mRNA 3' UTR

RNA interference and antisense-mediated degradation or translational repression.