Transfer RNA-derived small RNAs in tumor microenvironment.
Mei Yang1,2, Yongzhen Mo1,2, Daixi Ren1,2
1NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China.
Molecular Cancer
|February 16, 2023
Summary
Transfer RNAs (tRNAs) and their fragments (tDRs) are crucial non-coding RNAs regulating cellular processes. Aberrant tDRs impact human diseases, particularly cancer, by influencing the tumor microenvironment.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Transfer RNAs (tRNAs) are essential non-coding RNAs for protein synthesis.
- tRNAs can fragment into tRNA-derived small RNAs (tDRs) with diverse biological roles.
- Aberrant tDR expression is linked to human diseases, especially cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the biogenesis, classification, and functions of tDRs.
- To discuss the role of tDRs in regulating the tumor microenvironment (TME).
- To explore the clinical application prospects of tDRs in cancer.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatic studies.
- Analysis of current knowledge on tRNA and tDR biology.
- Synthesis of data on tDRs' impact on TME components and functions.
Main Results:
- tDRs are involved in regulating cell proliferation, apoptosis, metastasis, and immunity.
- tDRs modulate key aspects of the TME, including cancer stem cells, immunity, metabolism, EMT, and ECM remodeling.
- tDRs can act as either pro-tumor or tumor suppressor agents within the TME.
Conclusions:
- tDRs play significant roles in tumorigenesis and cancer progression by influencing the TME.
- Understanding tDRs' functions in the TME is critical for cancer research.
- tDRs hold potential for future clinical applications in cancer diagnosis and therapy.
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