In conclusion, this report found that downregulation of miR-451 was associated with worse survival in patients with NPC, and ectopic expression of miR-451 could suppress cell growth and invasion by directly targeting MIF. This newly identified miR-451/MIF pathway provides new insight into the molecular mechanisms which regulate NPC progression, and further provides novel therapeutic strategies for NPC patients. The gene discussed is MIF; the disease is nasopharyngeal carcinoma.