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The Importance of microRNAs in RAS Oncogenic Activation in Human Cancer

Roberta Roncarati1,2, Laura Lupini1, Ram C Shankaraiah1

  • 1Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.

Frontiers in Oncology
|October 16, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Dysregulated microRNAs (miRNAs) can activate RAS proteins, even without mutations, contributing to cancer. Understanding these mechanisms may lead to new anti-cancer therapies targeting RAS activation.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics
  • Oncology

Background:

  • MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of gene expression by controlling protein translation.
  • Aberrant miRNA expression is implicated in the pathogenesis of various human diseases, notably cancer.
  • RAS proteins (HRAS, KRAS, NRAS) are crucial in cell signaling, and their dysregulation drives cancer development.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review experimental evidence linking dysregulated miRNA expression to RAS activation.
  • To elucidate pathogenic mechanisms underlying miRNA-driven RAS activation.
  • To explore potential therapeutic strategies targeting miRNA-mediated RAS control.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of experimental studies on miRNA and RAS.
  • Analysis of molecular mechanisms of gene expression regulation by miRNAs.
  • Examination of evidence for miRNA involvement in RAS pathway activation.

Main Results:

  • Dysregulated miRNAs can lead to RAS (HRAS, KRAS, NRAS) activation independently of oncogenic mutations.
  • These findings highlight novel pathogenic pathways in cancer.
  • Evidence suggests miRNA dysregulation contributes to resistance against targeted therapies.

Conclusions:

  • Aberrant miRNA expression represents a significant mechanism for oncogenic RAS activation.
  • Understanding these pathways offers new therapeutic targets for cancer treatment.
  • Targeting miRNA-mediated RAS activation could overcome resistance to current therapies.
Keywords:
MAPKRAScancermicroRNAtarget therapies

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