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MicroRNA-21 in Cancer and Fibrosis: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Progress

Anushka Sharma1, Awaneet Kaur1, Javed Khan1

  • 1Department of Pharmacy, School of Medical and Allied Sciences, Galgotias University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India.

Anti-Cancer Agents in Medicinal Chemistry
|May 8, 2026
PubMed

Insights

MicroRNA-21 (miR-21) drives cancer and fibrosis by affecting cell growth and matrix remodeling. While miR-21 is a promising biomarker and therapeutic target, challenges in delivery and off-target effects impede clinical translation.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Oncology
  • Fibrosis Research

Background:

  • MicroRNA-21 (miR-21) is a critical regulator of gene expression implicated in cancer progression and fibrotic diseases.
  • Dysregulated miR-21 promotes tumor growth, metastasis, and fibrosis by inhibiting tumor suppressors and activating pro-fibrotic pathways like TGF-β signaling.
  • Its consistent alteration makes miR-21 a potential biomarker for diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment monitoring in various conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current literature on microRNA-21 (miR-21) biogenesis, regulation, and functional roles.
  • To evaluate therapeutic strategies targeting miR-21 in cancers and fibrotic disorders.
  • To identify challenges and future directions for clinical application of miR-21 inhibition.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive literature review of studies on miR-21 in cancer and fibrosis.
  • Analysis of preclinical therapeutic strategies including antagomiRs, LNAs, CRISPR-based inhibition, and delivery systems.
  • Evaluation of challenges and limitations in clinical translation of miR-21 targeted therapies.

Main Results:

  • miR-21 is a key driver of cancer and fibrosis, influencing cell proliferation, apoptosis resistance, EMT, and ECM remodeling.
  • Preclinical studies show promise for various miR-21 inhibition strategies (antagomiRs, LNAs, CRISPR, nanoparticles, viral vectors).
  • Significant hurdles remain, including off-target effects, inefficient delivery, and context-dependent miR-21 function, limiting clinical translation.

Conclusions:

  • MicroRNA-21 (miR-21) is a pivotal factor in cancer and fibrosis, presenting substantial potential as both a biomarker and therapeutic target.
  • Current therapeutic approaches show promise but face challenges in safety and efficacy for clinical application.
  • Future research must prioritize precision-based strategies, advanced gene-editing technologies, and improved preclinical models to advance miR-21 targeted therapies.
Keywords:
MicroRNA-21cancercrisprfibrosismiRNAtargeted therapy

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