Strand-specific functions of miR-301a-3p and -5p drive opposing roles in pancreatic cancer via ferroptosis and pyroptosis.

ABSTRACT: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is among the most lethal malignancies, underscoring the urgent need for a deepened molecular insights and targeted strategies. While microRNAs (miRNAs) are known to regulate key oncogenic pathways in PDAC, most studies overlook the functional heterogeneity between the 3p and 5p strands derived from the same miRNA precursor. Here, we systematically investigate the strand-specific roles of miR-301a-3p and miR-301a-5p in PDAC progression. Using a multidimensional approach, including clinical tissue-based FISH, serum analysis, cell-based assays, and xenograft models, we revealed a consistent pattern of miR-301a-3p upregulation and miR-301a-5p downregulation in PDAC tissues and fluids. Importantly, the ratio of 5p to 3p is negatively correlated with TNM stage, a

SUBMITTER: Chen Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12559136 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature