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Mir-29b in Breast Cancer: A Promising Target for Therapeutic Approaches
Silvia Grassilli1,2, Valeria Bertagnolo1, Federica Brugnoli1
1Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
Abstract:
The miR-29 family comprises miR-29a, miR-29b, and miR-29c, and these molecules play crucial and partially overlapped functions in solid tumors, in which the different isoforms are variously de-regulated and mainly correlated with tumor suppression. miR-29b is the most expressed family member in cancer, in which it is involved in regulating gene expression at both transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. This review focuses on the role of miR-29b in breast cancer, in which it plays a controversial role as tumor suppressor or onco-miRNA. Here we have highlighted the dual effect of miR-29b on breast tumor features, which depend on the prevailing function of this miRNA, on the mature miR-29b evaluated, and on the breast tumor characteristics. Remarkably, the analyzed miR-29b form emerged as a crucial element in the results obtained by various research groups, as the most abundant miR-29b-3p and the less expressed miR-29b1-5p seem to play distinct roles in breast tumors with different phenotypes. Of particular interest are the data showing that miR-29b1-5p counteracts cell proliferation and migration and reduces stemness in breast tumor cells with a triple negative phenotype. Even if further studies are required to define exactly the role of each miR-29b, our review highlights its possible implication in phenotype-specific management of breast tumors.
Insights
The miR-29b microRNA has a dual role in breast cancer, acting as both a tumor suppressor and promoter. Its specific function depends on the subtype and expression level, offering potential for targeted therapies.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
- Genetics
Background:
- The miR-29 family (miR-29a, miR-29b, miR-29c) plays significant roles in solid tumors, often acting as tumor suppressors.
- miR-29b is the most expressed member in cancer, regulating gene expression at multiple levels.
- Its function in breast cancer is complex, with evidence suggesting both tumor-suppressive and oncogenic activities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and highlight the dual role of miR-29b in breast cancer.
- To explore how different miR-29b isoforms and their expression levels influence breast tumor characteristics.
- To discuss the potential implications of miR-29b in phenotype-specific breast cancer management.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating miR-29b in breast cancer.
- Analysis of reported data on miR-29b isoforms (miR-29b-3p and miR-29b1-5p) and their functions.
- Correlation of miR-29b activity with different breast tumor phenotypes.
Main Results:
- miR-29b exhibits a controversial role in breast cancer, acting as either a tumor suppressor or an onco-miRNA.
- The specific function of miR-29b depends on the prevailing isoform (e.g., miR-29b-3p vs. miR-29b1-5p), its expression level, and the tumor's characteristics.
- miR-29b1-5p demonstrates tumor-suppressive effects, counteracting proliferation, migration, and stemness, particularly in triple-negative breast tumors.
Conclusions:
- The role of miR-29b in breast cancer is context-dependent, influenced by isoform-specific functions and tumor phenotypes.
- miR-29b1-5p shows promise as a tumor suppressor, especially in triple-negative breast cancer.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the distinct roles of each miR-29b isoform for targeted therapeutic strategies.
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