MIR141

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

MIR141 is a microRNA that in humans is encoded by the MIR141 gene. It is a small non-coding RNA molecule that functions in RNA silencing and post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression.

Function[edit | edit source]

MIR141 is part of the miR-200 family, which is known for its role in inhibiting epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), a process that is crucial for embryonic development, cancer progression, and metastasis. By targeting the transcriptional repressors of E-cadherin, ZEB1 and ZEB2, miR-141 helps to maintain the epithelial phenotype and prevent EMT.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Alterations in the expression of this microRNA are associated with various types of cancers, including ovarian cancer, colorectal cancer, and hepatocellular carcinoma. In ovarian cancer, miR-141 is significantly downregulated, and its low expression is associated with poor prognosis. In colorectal cancer, miR-141 suppresses tumor growth and metastasis by targeting the MAP4K4 gene. In hepatocellular carcinoma, miR-141 is also downregulated, and its overexpression inhibits cell proliferation and induces apoptosis.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD