Importantly, mature miR-34a derived from this novel prodrug was functionally active which is supported by the decreased protein and/or mRNA expression of putative miR-34a target genes including VEGFA, NOTCH1, SIRT1, PDGFRA and SURVIVIN, in the majority of the canine OSA cell lines. The gene discussed is BIRC5; the disease is obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.