<p>miR-3 Encoded by Hepatitis B Virus Downregulates PTEN Protein Expression and Promotes Cell Proliferation</p>

Abstract

HBV-miR-3 binds to the 3'-UTR of PTEN mRNA and downregulates PTEN protein expression, thereby reducing cell apoptosis and enhancing cell invasion and proliferation. These results indicate that HBV-miR-3 contributes to the development of HBV-related HCC and may be a therapeutic target for this cancer.