Current updates regarding biogenesis, functions and dysregulation of microRNAs in cancer: Innovative approaches for...

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short non‑coding RNAs, which perform a key role in cellular differentiation and development. Most human diseases, particularly cancer, are linked to miRNA functional dysregulation implicated in the expression of tumor‑suppressive or oncogenic targets. Cancer hallmarks such as continued proliferative signaling, dodging growth suppressors, invasion and metastasis, triggering angiogenesis, and avoiding cell death have all been demonstrated to be affected by dysregulated miRNAs. Thus, for the treatment of different cancer types, the detection and quantification of this type of RNA is significant. The classical and current methods of RNA detection, including northern blotting, reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR, rolling circle amplification and next‑generation sequencing, may be effective but differ in efficiency and accuracy. Furthermore, these approaches are expensive, and require special instrumentation and expertise. Thus, researchers are constantly looking for more innovative approaches for miRNA detection, which can be advantageous in all aspects. In this regard, an RNA manipulation tool known as the CRISPR and CRISPR‑associated sequence 13 (CRISPR/Cas13) system has been found to be more advantageous in miRNA detection. The Cas13‑based miRNA detection approach is cost effective and requires no special instrumentation or expertise. However, more research and validation are required to confirm the growing body of CRISPR/Cas13‑based research that has identified miRNAs as possible cancer biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis, and as targets for treatment. In the present review, current updates regarding miRNA biogenesis, structural and functional aspects, and miRNA dysregulation during cancer are described. In addition, novel approaches using the CRISPR/Cas13 system as a next‑generation tool for miRNA detection are discussed. Furthermore, challenges and prospects of CRISPR/Cas13‑based miRNA detection approaches are described.