Clinical implications of microRNAs in cancer

Abstract

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenously produced non-coding RNAs that serve as micromanagers by negatively regulating gene expression. MiRNAs are implicated in several biological pathways including development of neoplasia. Because altered miRNA expression is implicated in the pathobiology of various cancers, these molecules serve as potential therapeutic targets. Using miRNA mimics to restore levels of aberrantly down-regulated miRNAs or miRNA inhibitors to inactivate over-expressed miRNAs shows promise as the next generation of therapeutic strategies. Manipulation of miRNAs offers an alternative therapeutic approach for chemo- and radiation-resistant tumors. Similarly, miRNA expression patterns can be used for diagnosis and to predict prognosis and efficacy of therapy. We present here an overview of how miRNAs affect cancers, how they may be used as biomarkers, and the clinical implications of miRNAs in cancer.

Key words::

• assay platforms
• biomarkers
• cancer
• clinical outcomes
• miRNAs

Acknowledgments

We thank Donald L. Hill, Ph.D., Division of Preventive Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, for his critical review of this manuscript. This work was supported by grants from the National Institutes of Health/National Cancer Institute (NCI) (2U54-CA118948 & CA098932) to UM, and NCI Cancer Training Grant (5R25 CA47888) and UAB Breast SPORE minority supplement (P50 CA089019) to LCB.

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.