SH3BP4, a novel pigmentation gene, is inversely regulated by miR-125b and MITF

Exp Mol Med. 2017 Aug 18;49(8):e367. doi: 10.1038/emm.2017.115.

Abstract

Our previous work has identified miR-125b as a negative regulator of melanogenesis. However, the specific melanogenesis-related genes targeted by this miRNA had not been identified. In this study, we established a screening strategy involving three consecutive analytical approaches-analysis of target genes of miR-125b, expression correlation analysis between each target gene and representative pigmentary genes, and functional analysis of candidate genes related to melanogenesis-to discover melanogenesis-related genes targeted by miR-125b. Through these analyses, we identified SRC homology 3 domain-binding protein 4 (SH3BP4) as a novel pigmentation gene. In addition, by combining bioinformatics analysis and experimental validation, we demonstrated that SH3BP4 is a direct target of miR-125b. Finally, we found that SH3BP4 is transcriptionally regulated by microphthalmia-associated transcription factor as its direct target. These findings provide important insights into the roles of miRNAs and their targets in melanogenesis.

MeSH terms

  • Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing / genetics
  • Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing / metabolism*
  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • Gene Expression
  • Gene Expression Regulation*
  • Humans
  • Melanins / biosynthesis*
  • Melanins / genetics
  • Melanocytes / metabolism
  • MicroRNAs / genetics
  • MicroRNAs / metabolism*
  • Microphthalmia-Associated Transcription Factor / genetics
  • Microphthalmia-Associated Transcription Factor / metabolism*
  • RNA, Messenger
  • Skin Pigmentation / genetics*
  • Statistics as Topic
  • src Homology Domains

Substances

  • Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing
  • MIRN125 microRNA, human
  • MITF protein, human
  • Melanins
  • MicroRNAs
  • Microphthalmia-Associated Transcription Factor
  • RNA, Messenger
  • SH3BP4 protein, human