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The role of microRNAs in brain metastasis
Kadie Hudson1, Mark Willy Mondia2, Ying Zhang1
1Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
Abstract:
Brain metastasis (BM) is the most common type of brain tumor and frequently foreshadows disease progression and poor overall survival with patients having a median survival of 6 months. 70,000 new cases of BM are diagnosed each year in the United States (US) and the incidence rate for BM is increasing with improved detection. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that serve as critical regulators of gene expression and can act as powerful oncogenes and tumor suppressors. MiRNAs have been heavily implicated in cancer and proposed as biomarkers or therapeutic targets or agents. In this review, we summarize an extensive body of scientific work investigating the role of microRNAs in BM. We discuss miRNA dysregulation, functions, targets, and mechanisms of action in BM and present the current standing of miRNAs as biomarkers and potential therapeutics for BM. We conclude with future directions of miRNA basic and clinical research in BM.
Insights
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key players in brain metastasis (BM), the most common brain tumor. Research highlights their role as biomarkers and potential therapeutics for improving patient survival in BM.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Brain metastasis (BM) is the most frequent brain tumor, significantly impacting patient survival.
- The incidence of BM is rising due to enhanced detection methods.
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are crucial gene regulators with roles as oncogenes and tumor suppressors in cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the scientific literature on the role of miRNAs in BM.
- To discuss miRNA dysregulation, functions, targets, and mechanisms in BM.
- To evaluate the potential of miRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutics for BM.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of studies investigating miRNAs in BM.
- Analysis of miRNA dysregulation, functions, targets, and mechanisms.
- Assessment of current research on miRNA-based biomarkers and therapeutics.
Main Results:
- MiRNAs are significantly dysregulated in BM, influencing tumor progression.
- Specific miRNAs have been identified as potential oncogenes or tumor suppressors in BM.
- Evidence suggests miRNAs can serve as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Conclusions:
- MiRNAs play a critical role in the development and progression of BM.
- Further research is essential to translate miRNA findings into clinical applications for BM.
- Future directions include exploring novel miRNA-based diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for BM.
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