Evaluating the role of microRNAs alterations in oral squamous cell carcinoma

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) accounts for nearly 90 percent of oral cavity malignancies and is one of the most widespread oral cancers in the world. The microRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) have an important role in cellular processes comprising cell cycle, differentiation, and also apoptosis. MiRNAs are also implicated in the progression of cancers, including OSCC, through a variety of signaling pathways. One of the most significant signaling pathways in OSCC is the PI3K / Akt pathway that has been illustrated to be under the tight regulation of miRNAs. Deregulation or activation of the PI3K / Akt pathway due to mutations has been revealed to be implicated in the development of oral cancer. According to studies, more than 47% of HNSCC and around 38% of OSCC samples indicate at least one molecular alteration in this signaling pathway. The potential of miRNAs for their use as therapeutic tools in the diagnosis as well as treatment of numerous diseases have been confirmed. In the current review, we summarize miRNAs and their possible mechanisms as well as their functions in OSCC advancement and progression.