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Updated: Jun 13, 2025

Analysis of Combinatorial miRNA Treatments to Regulate Cell Cycle and Angiogenesis
Published on: March 30, 2019
MicroRNAs in metabolism for precision treatment of lung cancer
Giovanna Carrà1,2, Jessica Petiti3, Federico Tolino4
1Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy. giovanna.carra@unito.it.
Abstract:
The dysregulation of miRNAs in lung cancer has been extensively documented, with specific miRNAs acting as both tumor suppressors and oncogenes, depending on their target genes. Recent research has unveiled the regulatory roles of miRNAs in key metabolic pathways, such as glycolysis, the tricarboxylic acid cycle, fatty acid metabolism, and autophagy, which collectively contribute to the aberrant energy metabolism characteristic of cancer cells. Furthermore, miRNAs are increasingly recognized as critical modulators of the tumor microenvironment, impacting immune response and angiogenesis. This review embarks on a comprehensive journey into the world of miRNAs, unraveling their multifaceted roles, and more notably, their emerging significance in the context of cancer, with a particular focus on lung cancer. As we navigate this extensive terrain, we will explore the fascinating realm of miRNA-mediated metabolic rewiring, a phenomenon that plays a pivotal role in the progression of lung cancer and holds promise in the development of novel therapeutic strategies.
Insights
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of lung cancer, influencing cell metabolism and the tumor microenvironment. Understanding these roles offers potential for new lung cancer therapies.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) exhibit dual roles as tumor suppressors and oncogenes in lung cancer.
- miRNAs regulate critical metabolic pathways, including glycolysis and autophagy, contributing to cancer cell energy metabolism.
- miRNAs are recognized as key modulators of the tumor microenvironment, affecting immune responses and angiogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of microRNA functions in cancer, with a specific focus on lung cancer.
- To elucidate the role of miRNA-mediated metabolic rewiring in lung cancer progression.
- To highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting miRNAs in lung cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current research on microRNAs in lung cancer.
- Analysis of studies investigating miRNA involvement in metabolic pathways.
- Examination of research on miRNA-mediated effects on the tumor microenvironment.
Main Results:
- Dysregulated miRNAs significantly impact lung cancer development and progression.
- miRNAs are crucial in reprogramming cancer cell metabolism and influencing the tumor microenvironment.
- miRNA-based therapeutic strategies show promise for lung cancer treatment.
Conclusions:
- MicroRNAs are pivotal in regulating lung cancer's metabolic landscape and microenvironment.
- Targeting miRNA-mediated metabolic rewiring presents a promising avenue for novel lung cancer therapies.

