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Molecular pathways: microRNAs, cancer cells, and microenvironment

Ioana Berindan-Neagoe1, George A Calin2

  • 1Research Center for Functional Genomics and Translational Medicine, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania. Department of Immunology, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania. Department of Functional Genomics and Experimental Pathology, "Ion Chiricuta" The Oncology Institute, Cluj-Napoca, Romania. Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas. gcalin@mdanderson.org ioana.neagoe@umfcluj.ro.

Clinical Cancer Research : an Official Journal of the American Association for Cancer Research
|December 17, 2014
PubMed

Insights

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key players in cancer, influencing tumor growth and spread. These small molecules mediate communication between cancer cells and their environment, impacting treatment outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Oncology
  • Cancer Biology
  • RNA Biology

Background:

  • Recent discoveries highlight the interplay between genetic mutations and microRNAs (miRNAs) in cancer.
  • MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are increasingly recognized for their roles beyond cancer cells, originating from the tumor microenvironment.
  • Extracellular miRNAs function as signaling molecules, transported via vesicles or as free molecules.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in cancer cell-microenvironment communication.
  • To explore the translational applications of miRNAs in oncology.
  • To discuss miRNAs as biomarkers for treatment response and therapeutic targets.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and synthesis of current research on miRNA-mediated communication in cancer.
  • Analysis of studies investigating extracellular miRNA transport and uptake.
  • Examination of clinical data and preclinical models related to miRNA therapeutics.

Main Results:

  • MicroRNAs (miRNAs) facilitate intercellular communication, influencing cancer initiation, progression, and metastasis.
  • Extracellular miRNAs, packaged in vesicles or as free molecules, act as systemic signaling agents.
  • Evidence supports miRNAs' potential as predictive biomarkers for therapeutic efficacy.

Conclusions:

  • MicroRNA-mediated communication is a critical aspect of the tumor microenvironment.
  • MicroRNAs hold significant promise as predictive biomarkers and therapeutic targets in oncology.
  • Targeting miRNAs offers a novel strategy for cancer treatment.

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