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MicroRNAs (miRNAs) in colorectal cancer: from aberrant expression towards therapy

Hannelore Dassow1, Achim Aigner

  • 1Rudolf-Boehm-Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Clinical Pharmacology, University of Leipzig, Haertelstrasse 16 – 18, D – 04107 Leipzig, Germany.

Current Pharmaceutical Design
|April 10, 2013
PubMed

Insights

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a key role in colorectal cancer (CRC) by regulating genes involved in tumor growth and spread. This review explores therapeutic strategies targeting these small noncoding RNAs for CRC treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Oncology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNA molecules implicated in various cancers, including colorectal cancer (CRC).
  • Aberrant expression of miRNAs influences tumorigenesis, progression, angiogenesis, metastasis, and chemotherapy sensitivity in CRC.
  • miRNAs regulate multiple target genes crucial for cellular processes with prognostic and therapeutic significance in CRC.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive overview of functionally relevant miRNAs in colorectal cancer.
  • To detail their established target genes and the resulting cellular and pathological phenotypes.
  • To discuss current and future therapeutic strategies for miRNA-based interventions in CRC.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on miRNA function in colorectal cancer.
  • Analysis of established miRNA target genes and their impact on cellular phenotypes.
  • Examination of preclinical in vivo models for therapeutic miRNA intervention.

Main Results:

  • Identification of specific miRNAs with established functional relevance in CRC.
  • Elucidation of how these miRNAs and their targets affect tumorigenesis and progression.
  • Overview of therapeutic approaches including miRNA replacement and inhibition strategies.

Conclusions:

  • miRNAs are critical regulators in colorectal cancer with significant therapeutic potential.
  • Both tumor-suppressing and oncogenic miRNAs offer distinct targets for intervention.
  • Preclinical studies support the development of miRNA-based therapies for human CRC treatment.

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