Urinary microRNAs expression in prostate cancer diagnosis: a systematic review

Area of Science:

• Biomarkers
• Oncology
• Molecular Diagnostics

Background:

• Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) are potential noninvasive biomarkers for various cancers, including prostate cancer (PCa).
• Urine-based miRNA detection offers a less invasive alternative for PCa diagnosis.
• Limited studies and lack of standardized validation hinder the clinical application of urinary miRNAs for PCa.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct an in-depth literature review on miRNAs isolated from urine samples for PCa diagnosis.
• To identify potential urinary miRNA biomarkers for prostate cancer.
• To highlight the need for standardized validation strategies.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature review was performed.
• Searched PubMed, Lilacs, and Cochrane Library databases.
• Included studies focused on significantly deregulated miRNAs as PCa biomarkers.

Main Results:

• 18 primary manuscripts met the inclusion criteria.
• Identified miR-21-5p, miR-141-3p, miR-375, and miR-574-3p as potential urinary biomarkers for PCa.
• These miRNAs show promise for noninvasive PCa detection.

Conclusions:

• The identified miRNAs warrant further investigation as urinary biomarkers for PCa diagnosis.
• Large-scale prospective studies are essential for validation.
• Standardized protocols are crucial for reliable miRNA analysis in urine samples.