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MicroRNA-nanoparticles against cancer: Opportunities and challenges for personalized medicine
Elisa Martino1, Nunzia D'Onofrio1, Camilla Anastasio1
1Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy.
Abstract:
Micro-RNAs (miRNAs) control gene expression at the post-transcriptional level and are widely involved in carcinogenesis, playing a role as both oncogenes and tumor suppressors. MiRNAs act as potent therapeutic weapon in cancer, but their potential therapeutic use is limited by the off-target effect due to their nonspecific distribution in normal tissues. The encapsulation of miRNAs in nanostructured carriers allows targeted effects aimed to destroy cancer cells, without affecting healthy tissues. Due to their small size and the optimal surface/size ratio, nanoparticles (NPs) envelop, protect, and release miRNAs, representing a promising strategy in cancer treatment. In the present review, we discuss the latest advances in the field of miRNA-encapsulating NPs in cancer, focusing on colorectal cancer and its metastatic forms, one of the most common malignancies worldwide.
Insights
Micro-RNAs (miRNAs) are crucial in cancer. Encapsulating these molecules in nanoparticles offers a targeted therapy to destroy cancer cells while sparing healthy tissues, particularly for colorectal cancer.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Micro-RNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally and are implicated in cancer as oncogenes or tumor suppressors.
- Current miRNA cancer therapy faces limitations due to off-target effects and nonspecific distribution in normal tissues.
- Nanoparticle (NP) encapsulation offers a strategy to protect miRNAs and achieve targeted delivery for cancer treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in miRNA-encapsulating nanoparticles for cancer therapy.
- To focus on the application of these nanocarriers in treating colorectal cancer and its metastatic forms.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on miRNA-encapsulating nanoparticles.
- Analysis of nanoparticle characteristics (size, surface area) for effective miRNA delivery.
- Focus on applications in colorectal cancer models.
Main Results:
- Nanoparticles provide a protective and controlled-release system for miRNAs.
- Encapsulated miRNAs demonstrate targeted delivery, minimizing off-target effects.
- This approach shows promise for enhancing efficacy in colorectal cancer treatment.
Conclusions:
- miRNA-encapsulating nanoparticles represent a promising strategy for targeted cancer therapy.
- This technology has significant potential for treating colorectal cancer and its metastases.
- Further research is warranted to optimize NP design and clinical application.
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