The underlying mechanism and targeted therapy strategy of miRNAs cross-regulating EMT process through multiple

Juan Chen1, Fuguo He1, Hong Peng2

  • 1Department of Pathology, Bishan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.

Insights

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This review explores how miRNAs influence HCC progression and treatment via EMT and molecular pathways, proposing new therapeutic strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development involves genetic and epigenetic changes.
  • MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are critical regulators in physiological and pathological processes.
  • Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a key driver of HCC progression.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of miRNAs in regulating EMT in HCC.
  • To explore miRNA-mediated signaling pathways in HCC pathogenesis and treatment.
  • To propose miRNA-targeted diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for HCC.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive literature review of miRNAs, EMT, and HCC.
  • Analysis of miRNA involvement in key molecular pathways (Wnt/β-catenin, PTEN/PI3K/AKT, TGF-β, RAS/MAPK).
  • Investigation of signaling pathway-independent regulatory mechanisms.

Main Results:

  • miRNAs significantly influence EMT and HCC progression through multiple signaling pathways.
  • miRNAs also regulate HCC via mechanisms independent of canonical signaling pathways.
  • Understanding these mechanisms offers insights into cellular plasticity and therapeutic interventions.

Conclusions:

  • miRNAs are crucial in HCC pathogenesis by modulating EMT.
  • Targeting miRNAs presents a promising therapeutic avenue for HCC.
  • Further research into miRNA-EMT interactions can lead to novel diagnostic and treatment strategies.

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