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Updated: Mar 8, 2026
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Published on: October 7, 2025
Progress of research on microRNAs with diagnostic value in asbestos exposure: A call for method standardization
Luigina Micolucci1, Maria Rita Rippo, Fabiola Olivieri
1Computational Pathology Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche.
Abstract:
Malignant mesothelioma (MM) is an insidious, lethal asbestos-related cancer that is poorly responsive to current treatments. Specific and sensitive biomarkers providing early MM diagnosis in exposed subjects, who are at high-risk of developing it, are sorely needed. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenous, non-coding, small RNAs with a well-established diagnostic role in cancer and pollution exposure. In a recent systematic review and qualitative meta-analysis followed by a functional investigation, we examined all the available data on the miRNA biomarkers involved in asbestos exposure and MM pathways. This invited commentary aims to provide an insightful critique into the state of the art of the research into clinically relevant miRNA biomarkers, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of current research efforts in this field. It also reviews the suggestions advanced to improve biomarker development productivity and the translation of research results into clinical practice, stressing that multicenter multidisciplinary studies adopting standardized methods and protocol sharing are the key to move from the workbench to the clinic.
Insights
Early diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma (MM) requires sensitive biomarkers. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) show promise, but research needs standardization for clinical use in asbestos-exposed individuals.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Biomarker Discovery
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Malignant mesothelioma (MM) is a lethal asbestos-related cancer with poor treatment response.
- Early diagnosis is critical for high-risk asbestos-exposed individuals, necessitating sensitive biomarkers.
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are emerging as potential diagnostic biomarkers in cancer and pollution exposure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically evaluate the current state of research on miRNA biomarkers for asbestos exposure and MM.
- To highlight the strengths and limitations of existing research efforts in this field.
- To propose strategies for improving biomarker development and clinical translation.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review and qualitative meta-analysis of existing data on miRNA biomarkers.
- Functional investigation of identified miRNA pathways.
- Critical commentary and synthesis of current research findings.
Main Results:
- Current research on miRNA biomarkers for MM has strengths but also significant weaknesses.
- Standardization of methods and protocol sharing are crucial for progress.
- Multicenter, multidisciplinary studies are essential for clinical translation.
Conclusions:
- Clinically relevant miRNA biomarkers for MM diagnosis are urgently needed.
- Improving biomarker development requires addressing current research limitations.
- Collaborative, standardized research is key to translating miRNA discoveries into clinical practice.
