MicroRNA in prostate cancer: from biogenesis to applicative potential

Prostate cancer is the most common solid malignant tumor in men, characterized by high morbidity and mortality. While current screening tools, such as prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing and digital rectal examination, are available for early detection of prostate cancer, their sensitivity and specificity are limited. Tissue puncture biopsy, although capable of offering a definitive diagnosis, has poor positive predictive rates and burdens the patient more. Therefore, more reliable molecular diagnostic tools for prostate cancer urgently need to be developed. In recent years, microRNAs (miRNAs) have attracted much attention in prostate cancer research. miRNAs are extensively engaged in biological processes such as cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion by modulating gene expression post-transcriptionally. Dysregulation of miRNA expression in cancer is considered a critical factor in tumorigenesis and progression. This review first briefly introduces the biogenesis of miRNAs and their functions in cancer, then focuses on tumor-promoting miRNAs and tumor-suppressor miRNAs in prostate cancer. Finally, the potential application of miRNAs as multifunctional tools for cancer diagnosis, prognostic assessment, and therapy is discussed in detail. The concluding section summarizes the major points of the review and the challenges ahead.