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Updated: Nov 30, 2025
A 3D Organotypic Melanoma Spheroid Skin Model
Published on: May 18, 2018
The Non-Coding Landscape of Cutaneous Malignant Melanoma: A Possible Route to Efficient Targeted Therapy
Andreea D Lazăr1, Sorina Dinescu1,2, Marieta Costache1,2
1Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Bucharest, 050095 Bucharest, Romania.
Abstract:
Considered to be highly lethal if not diagnosed in early stages, cutaneous malignant melanoma is among the most aggressive and treatment-resistant human cancers, and its incidence continues to rise, largely due to ultraviolet radiation exposure, which is the main carcinogenic factor. Over the years, researchers have started to unveil the molecular mechanisms by which malignant melanoma can be triggered and sustained, in order to establish specific, reliable biomarkers that could aid the prognosis and diagnosis of this fatal disease, and serve as targets for development of novel efficient therapies. The high mutational burden and heterogeneous nature of melanoma shifted the main focus from the genetic landscape to epigenetic and epitranscriptomic modifications, aiming at elucidating the role of non-coding RNA molecules in the fine tuning of melanoma progression. Here we review the contribution of microRNAs and lncRNAs to melanoma invasion, metastasis and acquired drug resistance, highlighting their potential for clinical applications as biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Insights
Cutaneous malignant melanoma is a deadly cancer. This review explores how microRNAs and lncRNAs influence melanoma progression, offering potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for this aggressive disease.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Epigenetics
Background:
- Cutaneous malignant melanoma is an aggressive, treatment-resistant cancer with rising incidence, primarily linked to UV radiation.
- Understanding melanoma's molecular mechanisms is crucial for developing effective biomarkers and therapies.
- The complex nature of melanoma necessitates exploring epigenetic and epitranscriptomic modifications beyond genetics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in melanoma.
- To highlight the contribution of these non-coding RNAs to melanoma invasion, metastasis, and drug resistance.
- To discuss the potential clinical applications of microRNAs and lncRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on non-coding RNAs in melanoma.
- Analysis of research on microRNA and lncRNA involvement in melanoma progression.
- Synthesis of findings regarding clinical applications in diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy.
Main Results:
- MicroRNAs and lncRNAs play significant roles in regulating melanoma cell invasion and metastasis.
- These non-coding RNAs are implicated in the development of acquired drug resistance in melanoma.
- Evidence suggests their potential as reliable biomarkers for melanoma prognosis and diagnosis.
Conclusions:
- MicroRNAs and lncRNAs are critical regulators in melanoma pathogenesis.
- Targeting microRNAs and lncRNAs presents a promising avenue for novel melanoma therapies.
- Further research into these molecules could significantly improve clinical management of melanoma.
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