Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 27, 2025
An Orthotopic Bladder Cancer Model for Gene Delivery Studies
Published on: December 1, 2013
Bladder Cancer-related microRNAs With In Vivo Efficacy in Preclinical Models
Ulrich H Weidle1, Fabian Birzele2
1Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany.
Abstract:
Progressive and metastatic bladder cancer remain difficult to treat. In this review, we critique seven up-regulated and 25 down-regulated microRNAs in order to identify new therapeutic entities and corresponding targets. These microRNAs were selected with respect to their efficacy in bladder cancer-related preclinical in vivo models. MicroRNAs and related targets interfering with chemoresistance, cell-cycle, signaling, apoptosis, autophagy, transcription factor modulation, epigenetic modification and metabolism are described. In addition, we highlight microRNAs targeting transmembrane receptors and secreted factors. We discuss druggability issues for the identified targets.
Insights
This review identifies microRNAs (miRNAs) targeting key pathways in advanced bladder cancer. These findings offer potential new therapeutic targets and strategies for drug development against this difficult-to-treat disease.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Advanced bladder cancer, including metastatic stages, presents significant therapeutic challenges.
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are increasingly recognized as critical regulators in cancer progression and drug resistance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and identify specific microRNAs (up-regulated and down-regulated) with therapeutic potential in bladder cancer.
- To pinpoint corresponding molecular targets for novel drug development strategies.
Main Methods:
- Systematic critique of seven up-regulated and 25 down-regulated microRNAs.
- Selection based on demonstrated efficacy in preclinical in vivo bladder cancer models.
- Analysis of microRNAs and targets involved in chemoresistance, cell-cycle regulation, apoptosis, autophagy, and metabolism.
Main Results:
- Identified microRNAs and targets impacting critical cellular processes including chemoresistance, cell-cycle control, signaling pathways, apoptosis, and metabolism.
- Highlighted microRNAs targeting transmembrane receptors and secreted factors relevant to bladder cancer.
- Evaluated the druggability of the identified molecular targets.
Conclusions:
- Specific microRNAs and their targets represent promising therapeutic avenues for progressive and metastatic bladder cancer.
- Further investigation into the druggability of these targets is warranted for clinical translation.
- This review provides a foundation for developing novel miRNA-based therapies for bladder cancer.
