The liver specific microRNA-122 modulates hepatic response to infection and inflammation by antagonizing YY1, FoxP3, Nfr1 and E2F4 molecular networks

The liver specific microRNA miR-122 is essential for the maintenance of liver functionality. miR-122 deficient mice develop a pro-inflammatory phenotype in the liver, displaying an increased tendency in developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). miR-122 transcription is regulated by Liver Enriched Transcription Factors (LETF). Transient inhibition of miR-122 activity results in the development of iron deficiency and decreases cholesterol biosynthesis. Expression of miR-122 is dysregulated in a number of human diseases including HCC, viral hepatitis, and NASH. Although a great number of miR-122 targets has been i…