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Detection of a Circulating MicroRNA Custom Panel in Patients with Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Published on: March 14, 2019
CircRNAs in colorectal cancer: potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets
Yuying Zhang1, Jingyan Luo2, Weikang Yang3
1Central Laboratory, Shenzhen Longhua Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital, Shenzhen, 518109, China.
Abstract:
Globally, colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most prevalent cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are single-stranded RNA with covalently closed-loop structures and are highly stable, conserved, and abundantly expressed in various organs and tissues. Recent research found abnormal circRNA expression in CRC patients' blood/serum, cells, CRC tissues, and exosomes. Furthermore, mounting data demonstrated that circRNAs are crucial to the development of CRC. CircRNAs have been shown to exert biological functions by acting as microRNA sponges, RNA-binding protein sponges, regulators of gene splicing and transcription, and protein/peptide translators. These characteristics make circRNAs potential markers for CRC diagnosis and prognosis, potential therapeutic targets, and circRNA-based therapies. However, further studies are still necessary to improve the understanding of the roles and biological mechanisms of circRNAs in the development of CRC. In this review, up-to-date research on the role of circRNAs in CRC was examined, focusing on their potential application in CRC diagnosis and targeted therapy, which would advance the knowledge of the functions of circRNAs in the development and progression of CRC.
Insights
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) show abnormal expression in colorectal cancer (CRC) and are crucial to its development. These molecules offer potential for CRC diagnosis, prognosis, and targeted therapies.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
- Genetics
Background:
- Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major global health concern, ranking third in prevalence and second in cancer mortality.
- Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are stable, conserved RNA molecules with abnormal expression detected in various CRC patient samples.
- Emerging evidence highlights the critical role of circRNAs in CRC development and progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current research on the function of circRNAs in colorectal cancer.
- To explore the potential of circRNAs as biomarkers for CRC diagnosis and prognosis.
- To discuss the application of circRNAs in targeted CRC therapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on circRNAs and CRC.
- Analysis of circRNA functions, including microRNA and protein sponge activities.
- Examination of circRNAs' roles in gene regulation and translation.
Main Results:
- Abnormal circRNA expression is a hallmark of CRC across different sample types.
- CircRNAs participate in CRC pathogenesis through diverse molecular mechanisms.
- CircRNAs demonstrate significant potential as diagnostic and prognostic markers for CRC.
Conclusions:
- CircRNAs are pivotal in colorectal cancer development and progression.
- CircRNAs hold promise for novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in CRC.
- Further research is essential to fully elucidate circRNA mechanisms and clinical applications in CRC.
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