The expression of microRNA-223 (miR-233) has been investigated in various types of cancer. However, to the best of our knowledge, the expression and function of miR-223 in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remains to be elucidated. The expression of miR-223 was measured by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Following transfection with miR-223, cell viability assays, cell apoptosis assays, western blot analysis and luciferase assays were conducted in AML cell lines. In the present study, it was initially observed that miR-223 was downregulated in AML patients compared with healthy subjects. It was also demonstrated that miR-223 inhibited cell proliferation and enhanced cell apoptosis in AML cell lines. Additionally, the present study provided evidence that miR-223 may directly target F-box and WD repeat domain containing 7 in AML. The identification of candidate target genes of miR-223 may provide an understanding of the potential mechanisms underlying the development of AML. In conclusion, the results of the present study have therapeutic implications and may be exploited for further treatment of AML.