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Updated: Nov 24, 2025

MicroRNA Amplification and Recognition through Locked-nucleic-acid In situ Hybridization as A Novel Detection and Quantification Method
Published on: October 7, 2025
Targeting Akt-associated microRNAs for cancer therapeutics
Mir S Adil1, Daulat Khulood1, Payaningal R Somanath1
1Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Georgia and Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA, United States.
Abstract:
The uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells because of activating protooncogenes and/or inactivating tumor suppressor genes are the hallmarks of cancer. The PI3K/Akt signaling is one of the most frequently activated pathways in cancer cells responsible for the regulation of cell survival and proliferation in stress and hypoxic conditions during oncogenesis. Non-coding RNAs are a large family of RNAs that are not involved in protein-coding, and microRNAs (miRNAs) are a sub-set of non-coding RNAs with a single strand of 18-25 nucleotides. miRNAs are extensively involved in the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression and play an extensive role in the regulatory mechanisms including cell differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis, and tumorigenesis. The impact of cancer on mRNA stability and translation efficiency is extensive and therefore, cancerous tissues exhibit drastic alterations in the expression of miRNAs. miRNAs can be modulated by utilizing techniques such as miRNA mimics, miRNA antagonists, or CRISPR/Cas9. In addition to their capacity as potential targets in cancer therapy, they can be used as reliable biomarkers to diagnose the disease at the earliest stage. Recent evidence indicates that microRNA-mediated gene regulation intersects with the Akt pathway, forming an Akt-microRNA regulatory network. miRNAs and Akt in this network operate together to exert their cellular tasks. In the current review, we discuss the Akt-associated miRNAs in several cancers, their molecular regulation, and how this newly emerging knowledge may contribute greatly to revolutionize cancer therapy.
Insights
Cancer involves abnormal cell growth driven by gene mutations. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) interact with the Akt pathway, offering potential as cancer biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Cancer is characterized by uncontrolled cell growth due to genetic alterations.
- The PI3K/Akt pathway is crucial for cell survival and proliferation in cancer.
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of gene expression involved in tumorigenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of Akt-associated miRNAs in various cancers.
- To explore the molecular regulation of these miRNAs and their interaction with the Akt pathway.
- To discuss the therapeutic and diagnostic potential of this Akt-microRNA network.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on Akt-associated miRNAs in cancer.
- Analysis of molecular mechanisms regulating miRNA expression and function.
- Examination of miRNA-based therapeutic strategies and biomarkers.
Main Results:
- Cancer tissues show significant alterations in miRNA expression.
- A regulatory network exists between miRNAs and the Akt pathway.
- miRNAs can be modulated using techniques like miRNA mimics and CRISPR/Cas9.
Conclusions:
- Akt-associated miRNAs are integral to cancer development and progression.
- This network presents novel opportunities for cancer therapy and early diagnosis.
- Understanding the Akt-microRNA interplay can revolutionize cancer treatment strategies.
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