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Updated: May 1, 2026

MicroRNA Amplification and Recognition through Locked-nucleic-acid In situ Hybridization as a Novel Detection and Quantification Method
Published on: October 7, 2025
MicroRNA-mediated regulation of melanoma
1Center for Melanoma Research and Treatment, California Pacific Medical Center Research Institute, 475 Brannan St Suite 220, San Francisco, CA, 94107, U.S.A.
Abstract:
Melanoma is one of the most aggressive and deadly skin cancers, and, in its advanced stages, accounts for > 80% mortality. The incidence of melanoma is increasing worldwide; however, beyond surgical removal of the tumour, there is currently no curative therapy available, especially for its advanced stages. This may, in part, be owing to incomplete understanding of the molecular mechanisms that regulate the initiation and/or progression of melanoma to metastasis. The molecular mechanisms leading to the development and progression of melanoma are the focus of intense investigation, and many genetic/epigenetic alterations affecting melanoma progression and development have been identified. microRNAs (miRNAs) are emerging as important causal modulators in the development and progression of melanoma. The understanding of miRNA-mediated regulation of tumours has grown immensely over the last few years, as it has been understood to regulate most biological processes. Here, we review the currently available data on miRNAs associated with melanoma, highlighting those deregulated miRNAs that target important genes and pathways involved in the progression of melanocytes to primary and metastatic melanoma. We also review their potential clinical utility as biomarkers and potential use in targeted therapy.
Insights
Melanoma, a deadly skin cancer, lacks effective treatments for advanced stages due to poorly understood molecular drivers. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators in melanoma development and metastasis, offering potential therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Melanoma is an aggressive skin cancer with high mortality, particularly in advanced stages.
- Current treatments are limited, especially for metastatic disease, highlighting a need for better understanding of its molecular progression.
- Genetic and epigenetic alterations are implicated in melanoma development and metastasis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current data on microRNAs (miRNAs) involved in melanoma.
- To highlight deregulated miRNAs targeting key genes and pathways in melanoma progression.
- To discuss the potential clinical utility of miRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on miRNAs in melanoma.
- Analysis of identified deregulated miRNAs and their targeted genes/pathways.
- Evaluation of the role of miRNAs in melanocyte transformation and metastasis.
Main Results:
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are emerging as critical regulators in melanoma initiation and progression.
- Specific deregulated miRNAs target crucial genes and pathways driving melanoma development and metastasis.
- miRNAs play a significant role in the transition from primary to metastatic melanoma.
Conclusions:
- MicroRNAs are pivotal in melanoma pathogenesis and progression.
- Targeting specific miRNAs holds promise for novel melanoma therapies.
- miRNAs may serve as valuable biomarkers for early detection and prognosis of melanoma.
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