Therapeutic Use of MicroRNAs in Cancer

Alessandra Tessitore1, Germana Cicciarelli, Valentina Mastroiaco

  • 1Dept. of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio, Coppito II, L'Aquila, Italy. alessandra.tessitore@univaq.it.

Insights

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression and are implicated in cancer. This review explores their therapeutic potential and role in predicting treatment response for solid tumors.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression.
  • Aberrant miRNA expression is linked to cancer initiation, development, and progression.
  • miRNAs are emerging as therapeutic targets and biomarkers for cancer therapy response.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of miRNAs in cancer.
  • To discuss miRNAs as therapeutic agents.
  • To examine miRNA involvement in modulating response to chemo/radio/targeted therapy.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on miRNA function in cancer.
  • Analysis of miRNA-based therapeutic strategies in pre-clinical models.
  • Discussion of challenges in clinical translation of miRNA therapy.

Main Results:

  • miRNA dysregulation is a key factor in cancer pathogenesis.
  • Restoring or repressing miRNA activity shows promise for cancer management.
  • miRNAs can influence patient response to various cancer treatments.

Conclusions:

  • miRNA-based therapies hold significant potential for cancer treatment.
  • Further research is needed to overcome delivery and safety challenges for clinical application.
  • miRNAs are valuable for predicting and modulating treatment efficacy in solid tumors.

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