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Exosomal MiRNAs in Pediatric Cancers
Angela Galardi1, Marta Colletti2, Virginia Di Paolo3
1Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, IRCCS, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, 00146 Rome, Italy. angela.galardi@opbg.net.
Abstract:
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have generated great attention in oncology as they play a fundamental role in the regulation of gene expression and their aberrant expression is present in almost all types of tumors including pediatric ones. The discovery that miRNAs can be transported by exosomes, which are vesicles of 40-120 nm involved in cellular communication, that are produced by different cell types, and that are present in different biological fluids, has opened the possibility of using exosomal miRNAs as biomarkers. The possibility to diagnose and monitor the progression and response to drugs through molecules that can be easily isolated from biological fluids represents a particularly important aspect in the pediatric context where invasive techniques are often used. In recent years, the idea of liquid biopsy as well as studies on the possible role of exosomal miRNAs as biomarkers have developed greatly. In this review, we report an overview of all the evidences acquired in recent years on the identification of exosomal microRNAs with biomarker potential in pediatric cancers. We discuss the following herein: neuroblastoma, hepatoblastoma, sarcomas (osteosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma and rhabdoid tumors, and non-rhabdomyosarcoma soft tissue sarcoma), brain tumors, lymphomas, and leukemias.
Insights
Exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) show promise as non-invasive biomarkers for pediatric cancers. This review highlights their potential for diagnosing and monitoring various childhood tumors, offering an alternative to invasive procedures.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are crucial gene regulators with aberrant expression in pediatric cancers.
- Exosomes are nanoscale vesicles facilitating intercellular communication and transporting miRNAs.
- Exosomal miRNAs offer potential as non-invasive biomarkers in biological fluids.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence on exosomal microRNAs as biomarkers in pediatric cancers.
- To discuss the diagnostic and monitoring potential of these biomarkers.
- To cover a range of pediatric malignancies including neuroblastoma, sarcomas, brain tumors, lymphomas, and leukemias.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on exosomal miRNAs in pediatric oncology.
- Analysis of evidence for biomarker potential in various childhood cancers.
- Synthesis of findings related to exosomal miRNA detection and application.
Main Results:
- Exosomal miRNAs are identified as promising biomarkers across diverse pediatric cancers.
- Their presence in easily accessible biological fluids supports liquid biopsy applications.
- Evidence suggests utility in diagnosing and monitoring cancer progression and treatment response.
Conclusions:
- Exosomal miRNAs represent a significant advancement in pediatric cancer biomarker research.
- Liquid biopsy using exosomal miRNAs could reduce the need for invasive procedures in children.
- Further research is warranted to fully establish their clinical utility in pediatric oncology.
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