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MIR145 gene
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Gene

MIR145 gene

The MIR145 gene provides instructions for producing microRNA-145, a molecule essential for regulating blood cell development and platelet production.

Normal Function

The MIR145 gene provides instructions for making microRNA-145 (miR-145). MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short lengths of RNA that control gene expression by blocking the process of protein production. MiR-145 is abundant in immature blood cells and is involved in normal blood cell development. Specifically, it plays a role in the growth and division of megakaryocytes, the cells responsible for producing platelets involved in blood clotting.

Health Conditions Related to Genetic Changes

5q minus syndrome

The MIR145 gene is involved in 5q minus (5q-) syndrome, a type of bone marrow disorder known as myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). In this condition, immature blood cells fail to develop normally, often leading to a shortage of red blood cells (anemia) and abnormalities in megakaryocytes. Affected individuals also face an increased risk of developing acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a fast-growing blood cancer.

5q- syndrome is caused by a deletion of a region of DNA from the long (q) arm of chromosome 5. This deletion typically removes about 1.5 million DNA building blocks (base pairs) and includes 40 genes, one of which is MIR145. The loss of one copy of the MIR145 gene results in:

  • Reduced levels of miR-145 in cells.
  • Elevated levels of proteins that are normally blocked by miR-145.
  • Abnormal development of megakaryocytes.

Other Names for This Gene

  • hsa-mir-145
  • miR-145
  • MIRN145
  • miRNA145

Frequently Asked Questions

While 5q minus syndrome shares features with other MDS types, such as anemia and fatigue, it is often characterized by a relatively isolated anemia with normal or elevated platelet and white blood cell counts. Patients may also exhibit macrocytosis, which means their red blood cells are larger than normal. Unlike many other MDS subtypes, 5q minus syndrome often presents with a lower risk of rapid progression to acute leukemia in the early stages, though the risk does increase over time. The specific genetic deletion on chromosome 5 is the definitive diagnostic marker that separates it from other MDS categories.
Yes, lenalidomide is a targeted therapy that has shown significant efficacy in treating 5q minus syndrome, particularly in patients who are transfusion-dependent. It works by restoring some of the disrupted cellular signaling caused by the MIR145 deletion, often leading to transfusion independence and improved blood counts. The prognosis is generally better than for other MDS subtypes, with many patients experiencing long-term survival. However, regular monitoring is essential because a small percentage of patients may eventually progress to acute myeloid leukemia, requiring more intensive treatment such as stem cell transplantation.
The loss of one copy of the MIR145 gene leads to reduced levels of microRNA-145 in bone marrow cells. Since miR-145 normally suppresses the production of certain proteins that drive cell growth, its absence causes these proteins to accumulate. This imbalance disrupts the normal maturation process of megakaryocytes and other blood cell precursors. The resulting ineffective hematopoiesis means that the bone marrow fails to produce adequate numbers of functional red blood cells, leading to the characteristic anemia seen in patients with this syndrome.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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