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MicroRNA as a Potential Therapeutic Molecule in Cancer

Joanna Szczepanek1, Monika Skorupa1,2, Andrzej Tretyn2

  • 1Centre for Modern Interdisciplinary Technologies, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Ul. Wilenska 4, 87-100 Torun, Poland.

Cells
|March 25, 2022
PubMed

Insights

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators in cancer, acting as biomarkers for disease and therapy response. They show promise in overcoming drug resistance and sensitizing cancer cells, with ongoing clinical trials supporting their therapeutic potential.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Oncology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Small noncoding RNAs, specifically microRNAs (miRNAs), regulate gene expression post-translationally.
  • miRNAs are implicated in cancer initiation, progression, and response to anticancer therapies.
  • They serve as biomarkers for drug resistance and can sensitize cancer cells to treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of miRNAs in cancer treatment.
  • To present novel therapeutic strategies involving miRNAs.
  • To highlight the potential of miRNAs in overcoming drug resistance.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on miRNA therapeutics in cancer.
  • Analysis of preclinical and clinical studies involving miRNA-based cancer treatments.
  • Discussion of various miRNA delivery methods (synthetic mimics, DNA plasmids, epigenetic modulators).

Main Results:

  • Hundreds of miRNAs identified as drug resistance biomarkers.
  • miRNAs demonstrate potential to sensitize cancer cells to therapy.
  • Studies in animal models and preclinical settings confirm miRNA effectiveness in solid and hematological cancers.

Conclusions:

  • miRNAs hold significant promise for enhancing anticancer therapy and overcoming drug resistance.
  • Clinical trials support the use of miRNA molecules in cancer treatment.
  • Further research is needed to address limitations in nanoconstruct development, delivery, and biodistribution.
Keywords:
drug resistancemetastamiRsmiRNAmiRNA delivery systemsmiRNA inhibition therapyoncomiRsreplacement therapytumor suppressor

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