MicroRNA Sponge (the "microRNA sponge" mechanism)

**What it means:** In the cell, microRNAs normally act like "volume knobs" — they bind to messenger RNA molecules and turn down (or off) the amount of protein produced. The MUSC team's approach uses synthetic RNAs that act as a **"sponge"** — they soak up the microRNAs that would normally suppress MEF2C mRNA. Think of it like using a wet sponge to soak up spilled water. The sponge (the synthetic RNA) soaks up the microRNAs, freeing the MEF2C mRNA to do its job and produce more protein. The result is a 40-60% increase in MEF2C protein — a clinically meaningful boost for a condition where even 40% more protein can make a difference.