Development of MicroRNAs as Potential Therapeutics against Cancer

Noraini Abd-Aziz1, Nur Izyani Kamaruzman2, Chit Laa Poh1

  • 1Centre for Virus and Vaccine Research (CVVR), Sunway University, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia.

Journal of Oncology
|August 1, 2020
PubMed

Insights

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate cell growth and are implicated in cancer development. This review explores using synthetic miRNAs as cancer therapeutics, focusing on delivery and potential enhancement strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs regulating gene expression posttranscriptionally.
  • miRNA dysregulation is linked to cancer initiation and progression.
  • Oncogenic miRNAs (oncomiRs) can promote carcinogenesis, while tumor suppressor miRNAs are often downregulated.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of miRNAs in tumorigenesis.
  • To discuss the therapeutic potential of synthetic miRNAs (mimics and antagomirs) in cancer treatment.
  • To explore miRNA delivery methods and strategies for enhancing therapeutic efficacy.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on miRNA function in cancer.
  • Analysis of research on synthetic miRNA therapeutics.
  • Examination of miRNA delivery systems and enhancement approaches.

Main Results:

  • miRNAs play a critical role in regulating cell proliferation and survival, impacting cancer development.
  • Synthetic miRNAs offer a promising avenue for cancer therapy by modulating oncogenic or tumor suppressor pathways.
  • Effective delivery and enhanced stability are key challenges for miRNA-based cancer treatments.

Conclusions:

  • miRNAs are significant players in cancer biology, acting as both drivers and suppressors.
  • Synthetic miRNA mimics and antagomirs represent a novel therapeutic strategy for various cancers.
  • Further research into optimized delivery and enhancement techniques is crucial for realizing the full potential of miRNA therapeutics.

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