Plectin mRNA 3' untranslated region (PLEC mRNA 3' UTR) (PLEC mRNA 3' UTR)

The Plectin mRNA 3' untranslated region (PLEC mRNA 3' UTR) is a critical regulatory segment of the PLEC transcript, which encodes a massive cytolinker protein essential for maintaining the mechanical integrity of various tissues (UniProt, P15924). This region contains multiple binding sites for microRNAs (miRNAs), such as miR-200c and miR-223, which post-transcriptionally regulate plectin expression by influencing mRNA stability and translation efficiency (PubMed, 21832056; PubMed, 30217958). In the context of oncology, plectin is frequently overexpressed and serves as a biomarker for aggressive cancers like pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, where its misregulation promotes cell migration and invasion (PubMed, 25654253). Consequently, the PLEC mRNA 3' UTR is an emerging therapeutic target for RNA-based interventions, including miRNA mimics and antisense oligonucleotides, aimed at downregulating plectin to inhibit tumor progression. However, because plectin is vital for the structural stability of skin and muscle, therapeutic strategies must carefully manage the risk of inducing symptoms similar to epidermolysis bullosa simplex, a genetic disorder caused by plectin deficiency (PubMed, 10610713).

Other names

Plectin 3' UTRPLEC 3' UTRPlectin mRNA 3-prime untranslated region

Binding of microRNAs or antisense oligonucleotides to the 3' UTR leads to mRNA degradation or translational inhibition, thereby reducing plectin protein levels.