miR-146a suppresses the sensitivity to interferon-α in hepatocellular carcinoma cells

► To isolate miRNAs that regulate the response to interferon -α(IFN-α) in hepatoma. ► miRNA microarray analysis using parental PLC/PRF/5 and its IFN-α-resistant clones. ► miR-146a suppressed sensitivity to IFN-α through inhibition of apoptosis. ► The effect of miR-146a on sensitivity to IFN-α was mediated by SMAD4. ► Therapies targeting miR-146a/SMAD4 might be effective in hepatoma.