Emerging frontiers in microRNA technology: Innovations driving precision medicine

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a central role in gene regulation and have emerged as critical tools in disease diagnosis, therapy, and precision medicine. However, the field faces major challenges, including insufficient sensitivity and specificity in low-abundance miRNA detection, inefficiencies in safe and selective delivery systems, and the lack of standardized protocols and clinical validation. This review highlights the latest advancements in miRNA technologies, including high-sensitivity nucleic acid amplification platforms, nanotechnology-based biosensors, and artificial intelligence-driven target prediction and drug development. Distinctively, we emphasize the transformative impact of intelligent algorithms on miRNA-based drug design and discuss the multi-disease potential of miRNA in diagnostics, therapeutics, and prognostics, particularly in cancer, cardiovascular, and neurodegenerative diseases. We propose forward-looking solutions such as smart detection platforms, nanocarrier-based precision delivery, and multi-omics integration. By advocating for interdisciplinary collaboration, this review aims to guide the evolution of miRNA technologies from fundamental research to clinical applications.