MIR96

MIR96 is a microRNA that in humans is encoded by the MIR96 gene. It is a small non-coding RNA molecule that functions in RNA silencing and post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. MIR96 has been found to play a significant role in the development and function of the inner ear and eye, and has been implicated in various diseases, including cancer and hearing loss.

Function

MIR96 is involved in the regulation of gene expression. It binds to the 3' untranslated regions (3' UTRs) of target mRNAs, leading to their degradation or translational repression. This post-transcriptional regulation plays a crucial role in many biological processes, including cell differentiation, cell cycle control, apoptosis, and development.

In the inner ear, MIR96 is essential for the development and maintenance of hair cells, which are responsible for converting sound vibrations into electrical signals. Mutations in the MIR96 gene can lead to progressive hearing loss.

In the eye, MIR96 has been found to regulate the expression of genes involved in retinal development and function. Abnormalities in MIR96 expression have been associated with various eye diseases, including macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa.

Clinical significance

Alterations in MIR96 expression have been observed in several types of cancer, including breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and lung cancer. In these cancers, MIR96 often acts as an oncogene, promoting cell proliferation and inhibiting apoptosis. However, the exact role of MIR96 in cancer development and progression is still under investigation.

Mutations in the MIR96 gene have also been linked to nonsyndromic hearing loss, a type of hearing loss that is not associated with other signs and symptoms. These mutations can lead to the production of an abnormal MIR96 molecule that cannot properly regulate gene expression, resulting in the death of hair cells in the inner ear.

See also

• MicroRNA
• Gene expression
• Hearing loss
• Cancer