MicroRNA 495

MicroRNA 495 (miR-495) is a small non-coding RNA molecule that regulates gene expression. It is part of the larger family of microRNAs, which are involved in a wide range of biological processes, including development, differentiation, apoptosis, and cancer.

Function

miR-495 is involved in the regulation of gene expression by binding to the 3' untranslated regions (3' UTRs) of target mRNAs. This binding can lead to mRNA degradation or inhibition of translation, thereby reducing the expression of the target gene. The specific genes targeted by miR-495 can vary depending on the cell type and physiological context.

Role in Disease

miR-495 has been implicated in several diseases, including various types of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurological disorders. In cancer, miR-495 can act as either an oncogene or a tumor suppressor, depending on the context. For example, in colorectal cancer, miR-495 has been shown to promote tumor growth by targeting the tumor suppressor gene PTEN. In contrast, in breast cancer, miR-495 can suppress tumor growth by targeting the oncogene MYC.

In cardiovascular disease, miR-495 has been shown to regulate cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure. In neurological disorders, miR-495 has been implicated in the regulation of neuronal differentiation and synaptic plasticity.

Research

Research into miR-495 is ongoing, with the aim of better understanding its biological functions and potential therapeutic applications. For example, miR-495 has been proposed as a potential biomarker for certain types of cancer, and as a target for therapeutic intervention in diseases such as heart failure and neurological disorders.

MicroRNA molecule, of which miR-495 is a member.

See Also

• MicroRNA
• Gene expression
• Non-coding RNA