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Published on: June 7, 2019
Is miRNA Regulation the Key to Controlling Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer Evolution?
Tiberiu Tamas1, Mihaela Baciut1, Andreea Nutu2
1Department of Maxillofacial Surgery and Implantology, Faculty of Dentistry, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
Abstract:
Non melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is one of the most common types of skin cancer. It has a number of subtypes, which include basal cell carcinoma, cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma and Merkel cell carcinoma. MicroRNAs are short, non-coding RNA (ribonucleic acid) molecules, capable of regulating gene expression at a post transcriptional level. They play a pivotal role in a variety of physiologic cellular functions and pathologies, including malignant diseases. The development of miRNAs represents an important study field, which has been extensively exploited in melanoma for almost a decade with promising results, therefore we consider it a stepstone for further research projects also in non-melanoma skin cancers. The aim of our study was to explore the current literature in order to present the role of the different miRNAs in some of the most frequent types of NMSC pertaining to oncogenesis, evolution and therapy. The most relevant and accurate available data from the literature were evaluated. Our study concluded that there are almost 100 miRNAs which can be upregulated or downregulated and can play a role in oncogenesis. They can be easily identified in circulation, are stable and they can be important diagnosis/prognosis and therapy monitoring markers.
Insights
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators in non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) development. Nearly 100 miRNAs show altered expression, serving as potential biomarkers for diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) encompasses several common skin malignancies, including basal cell carcinoma and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma.
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs), short non-coding RNA molecules, regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally and are implicated in various cellular functions and diseases, including cancer.
- Research into miRNAs in melanoma has yielded promising results, suggesting their potential in other skin cancers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize current literature on the role of miRNAs in the oncogenesis, progression, and treatment of frequent NMSC subtypes.
- To highlight the diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic potential of miRNAs in NMSC.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify relevant studies.
- Data from the most pertinent and accurate available literature were evaluated.
Main Results:
- Almost 100 miRNAs have been identified as upregulated or downregulated in NMSC, influencing oncogenesis.
- These miRNAs can be detected in circulation, are stable, and show potential as diagnostic and prognostic markers.
- miRNAs may also serve as valuable tools for monitoring therapeutic responses in NMSC patients.
Conclusions:
- MicroRNAs play a significant role in the development and progression of non-melanoma skin cancers.
- Circulating miRNAs represent promising, stable biomarkers for NMSC diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment monitoring.
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