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Updated: Apr 5, 2026

MicroRNA Amplification and Recognition through Locked-nucleic-acid In situ Hybridization as a Novel Detection and Quantification Method
Published on: October 7, 2025
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.
Abstract:
MicroRNAs are small non-coding RNAs which regulate gene expression and silence a wide set of target genes. Aberrant miRNA expression has been described in cancer cells and is at least in part responsible of cancer initiation, development and progression. Due to their role, miRNAs have emerged as therapeutic targets or molecules suitable at the therapeutic level as well as markers of the response to chemo/radio/targeted therapy. Restoration or repression of miRNAs expression and activity shows high potential in managing cancer, and many studies on pre-clinical models have demonstrated the feasibility and efficacy of miRNA-based therapy. However, despite the exciting potential, some limitations, due to the degree of delivery and biodistribution or to possible side effects, need to be taken into consideration and solved in order to accomplish transition to clinical application. In this review we report and discuss the role of miRNAs in cancer, focusing on their use as therapeutic agents and their involvement in modulating/affecting the response to chemo/radio/targeted therapy in some of the most frequent solid tumors.
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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