miR-150 inhibits terminal erythroid proliferation and differentiation

MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a class of small non-coding linear RNAs, have been shown to play a crucial role in erythropoiesis. To evaluate the indispensable role of constant suppression of miR-150 during terminal erythropoiesis, we performed miR-150 gain- and loss-of-function experiments on hemin-induced K562 cells and EPO-induced human CD34(+) cells. We found that forced expression of miR-150 suppresses commitment of hemoglobinization and CD235a labeling in both cell types. Erythroid proliferation is also inhibited via inducing apoptosis and blocking the cell cycle when miR-150 is overexpressed. In contrast, miR-150 inhibition promotes terminal erythropoiesis. 4.1 R gene is a new target of miR-150 during terminal erythropoiesis, and its abundance ensures the mechanical stability and deformability of the membrane. However, knockdown of 4.1 R did not affect terminal erythropoiesis. Transcriptional profiling identified more molecules involved in terminal erythroid dysregulation derived from miR-150 overexpression. These results shed light on the role of miR-150 during human terminal erythropoiesis. This is the first report highlighting the relationship between miRNA and membrane protein and enhancing our understanding of how miRNA works in the hematopoietic system.