Abstract <p>Accumulating research have suggested the involvement of genetic polymorphisms in microRNAs in the susceptibility of acute ischemic stroke (AIS). The study examined the genetic distribution of miR-137 rs1625579 polymorphism in the Chinese Han population with AIS. A case-control study was performed for rs1625579 genotyping in 308 AIS patients and 305 healthy controls (HCs). Chi-square test was applied for difference comparison, and odds ratio and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated for risk assessment. miR-137 levels were determined via qRT-PCR. A high-proportioned rs1625579 GT genotype carriers were identified in AIS group, the increased risk of AIS was more pronounced among miR-137 rs1625579 GT genotype carriers (OR = 2.169, 95% CI = 1.559-3.017). The genetic association was also confirmed under the dominant model and over dominant model. AIS cases carrying GT/TT genotype presented high concentrations of TC, TG and LDL-C, and low levels of HDL-C. qRT-PCR indicated a significant downtrend of serum miR-137 in AIS patients. GT/GG genotype carriers presented significantly low expression of miR-137 in both HC and AIS groups. Both rs1625579 polymorphism and miR-137 expression were independent influence factors for AIS development. The nucleotide variant rs1625579 in miR-137 plays a protective role in AIS, since even a single allele can elevate miRNA expression.</p>