Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 23, 2025
Sequencing Small Non-coding RNA from Formalin-fixed Tissues and Serum-derived Exosomes from Castration-resistant Prostate Cancer Patients
Published on: November 19, 2019
Non-coding RNAs: a promising target for early metastasis intervention
Yi Xiao1, Yijun Hu2, Shanrong Liu3
1Department of Stomatology, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China.
Abstract:
Metastases account for the overwhelming majority of cancer-associated deaths. The dissemination of cancer cells from the primary tumor to distant organs involves a complex process known as the invasion-metastasis cascade. The underlying biological mechanisms of metastasis, however, remain largely elusive. Recently, the discovery and characterization of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have revealed the diversity of their regulatory roles, especially as key contributors throughout the metastatic cascade. Here, we review recent progress in how three major types of ncRNAs (microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs) are involved in the multistep procedure of metastasis. We further examine interactions among the three ncRNAs as well as current progress in their regulatory mechanisms. We also propose the prevention of metastasis in the early stages of cancer progression and discuss current translational studies using ncRNAs as targets for metastasis diagnosis and treatments. These studies provide insights into developing more effective strategies to target metastatic relapse.
Insights
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) like microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs are key drivers of cancer metastasis. Understanding their roles and interactions offers new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for preventing cancer spread.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Metastasis, the spread of cancer, causes most cancer deaths and involves a complex invasion-metastasis cascade.
- The biological mechanisms driving metastasis are not fully understood.
- Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are increasingly recognized as critical regulators in cancer progression.
Approach:
- This review synthesizes recent research on the roles of three major ncRNA types: microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs.
- It examines the involvement of these ncRNAs in the multistep process of metastasis.
- The review also explores interactions among these ncRNAs and their regulatory mechanisms.
Key Points:
- MicroRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs play significant roles throughout the metastatic cascade.
- Interactions and regulatory networks among these ncRNAs are crucial for metastasis.
- Early prevention of metastasis is a key focus, with ncRNAs emerging as potential targets.
Conclusions:
- ncRNAs are vital players in cancer metastasis, influencing multiple steps of the invasion-metastasis cascade.
- Targeting ncRNAs offers promising avenues for the diagnosis and treatment of metastatic cancer.
- Further research into ncRNA interactions can lead to improved strategies against metastatic relapse.
Related Concept Videos
02:39lncRNA - Long Non-coding RNAs
02:30Metastasis
Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition
The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition or EMT is a developmental process commonly observed in wound healing, embryogenesis, and cancer metastasis. EMT is induced by transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) or receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) ligands, which further...
01:22MicroRNAs
02:15Experimental RNAi
01:23RNA Interference
This process occurs naturally in cells, often through the activity of genomically-encoded microRNAs. Researchers can take advantage of this mechanism by introducing synthetic RNAs to deactivate specific genes for research or therapeutic purposes. For example, RNAi could be used...
01:41Non-Canonical Wnt Signaling Pathways