Non-coding RNA mediated regulation of PI3K/Akt pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma: Therapeutic perspectives

Md Sadique Hussain1, Ehssan Moglad2, Muhammad Afzal3

  • 1School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jaipur National University, Jagatpura, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302017, India.

Insights

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) regulate the PI3K/Akt pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Targeting ncRNAs offers potential new therapies for this deadly cancer.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide.
  • The PI3K/Akt signaling pathway plays a critical role in HCC development and progression.
  • Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), are key regulators in various cancers, including HCC.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the intricate regulatory roles of ncRNAs in the PI3K/Akt signaling network within HCC.
  • To investigate how different types of ncRNAs influence the expression and function of the PI3K/Akt pathway in HCC.
  • To examine current and potential therapeutic strategies targeting ncRNAs for HCC treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and analysis of existing research on ncRNAs and the PI3K/Akt pathway in HCC.
  • Examination of studies detailing the mechanisms by which lncRNAs, miRNAs, and circRNAs modulate PI3K/Akt signaling.
  • Review of therapeutic approaches utilizing ncRNAs, such as antisense oligonucleotides, RNA interference, and small molecule inhibitors.

Main Results:

  • ncRNAs significantly impact the PI3K/Akt pathway, either promoting or inhibiting HCC growth.
  • Specific ncRNAs have been identified as crucial mediators in HCC pathogenesis via PI3K/Akt pathway modulation.
  • Various ncRNA-targeting strategies show promise for HCC treatment, with ongoing research into their efficacy and safety.

Conclusions:

  • ncRNAs are central players in the complex regulatory network of the PI3K/Akt pathway in HCC.
  • Targeting ncRNAs presents a promising avenue for developing novel and effective therapeutic strategies against HCC.
  • Further research is needed to optimize ncRNA-based therapies for clinical application, ensuring safety and efficacy.

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