Downregulation of miR-223 and miR-153 mediates mechanical stretch-stimulated proliferation of venous smooth muscle cells via activation of the insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor

► Mechanical stretch down-regulates miR-223 and miR-153. ► MiR-223 or miR-153 down-regulates IGF-1R expression and activity in VSMCs. ► MiR-223 and miR-153 inhibit stretch stress-enhanced VSMC proliferation.