Non-coding RNAs as mediators of epithelial to mesenchymal transition in metastatic colorectal cancers

Area of Science:

• Molecular Oncology
• Genomics
• Nanomedicine

Background:

• Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major global health challenge, driving the need for novel therapeutic strategies.
• Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), play critical roles in CRC development and progression.
• Understanding ncRNA involvement in key cancer processes like epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), metastasis, and drug resistance is crucial for therapeutic advancement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the multifaceted roles of diverse ncRNAs in colorectal cancer pathogenesis.
• To elucidate the regulatory interactions between ncRNAs and critical signaling pathways (e.g., Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, JAK-STAT, EGFR, TGF-β) in CRC.
• To explore the potential of nanotechnology-based approaches for enhancing ncRNA therapeutics in CRC treatment.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of studies investigating ncRNAs in colorectal cancer.
• Analysis of ncRNA interactions with key signaling pathways implicated in CRC progression.
• Evaluation of current and emerging nanotechnology applications for ncRNA delivery and efficacy.

Main Results:

• ncRNAs are integral regulators of CRC progression, EMT, metastasis, and chemoresistance.
• ncRNAs modulate crucial signaling pathways, influencing tumor behavior and therapeutic response.
• Nanotechnology presents viable solutions for overcoming delivery and specificity challenges in ncRNA-based therapies.

Conclusions:

• ncRNAs represent significant therapeutic targets and diagnostic biomarkers for colorectal cancer.
• The integration of nanotechnology with ncRNA-based strategies holds substantial promise for developing more effective and personalized CRC treatments.
• Further research is essential to validate these advanced therapeutic approaches and translate them into clinical practice.