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RAS-MAPK pathway epigenetic activation in cancer: miRNAs in action

Julien Masliah-Planchon1,2, Simon Garinet3, Eric Pasmant3,4

  • 1Unité de Génétique Somatique, Département de Génétique Oncologique, Institut Curie, Paris, France.

Oncotarget
|December 10, 2015
PubMed

Insights

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate the RAS-mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, crucial in cancer development. Understanding miRNA alterations offers insights into cancer progression and potential biomarkers.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Oncology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • The RAS-mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway is vital for cellular functions and frequently altered in human cancers.
  • MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are increasingly recognized for their role in regulating oncogenic pathways, including RAS-MAPK signaling.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review and map experimentally validated RAS-MAPK oncomiRs and tumor suppressor miRNAs.
  • To elucidate the mechanisms of miRNA deregulation and their functional impact in cancer.
  • To highlight the potential of miRNAs as biomarkers in oncology.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of experimental studies.
  • Compilation of a validated map of miRNAs targeting the RAS-MAPK pathway.
  • Analysis of miRNA roles from transmembrane receptors to downstream effectors like ERK.

Main Results:

  • Identification of specific miRNAs that promote or suppress RAS-MAPK signaling in cancer.
  • Evidence suggests miRNA alterations act as a rheostat for oncogenic RAS signaling.
  • MiRNA deregulation mechanisms and precise functional consequences in cancer require further investigation.

Conclusions:

  • MiRNAs targeting the RAS-MAPK pathway are critical in oncogenesis.
  • A comprehensive map of these miRNAs provides a resource for cancer research.
  • MiRNAs hold promise as diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic biomarkers for cancer.
Keywords:
RAS MAPK pathwaycancerepigeneticsmicroRNAs

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