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A new chapter in cancer treatment: Exploring innovative strategies and technologies of miRNA

October 16th, 2024
A new chapter in cancer treatment: Innovative strategies and technologies of miRNA
A. miRNAs are cut in the nucleus, sent to the cytoplasm, and processed there to control certain mRNAs. They can also move between cells in tiny bubbles to regulate them. B. miRNA can act as both oncomiRs and tumor suppressors, affecting cancer through various pathways. C. miRNA and epigenetic effects interact to form a miRNA-epigenetic feedback loop, whose dysregulation is closely related to cancer development. D. miRNA dysregulation forms a complex tumorigenic symbiosis with tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment, especially affecting immune cells. Credit: Shiwei Duan

A team led by Dr. Shiwei Duan (Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China) analyzed literature on miRNA. Their work, summarizing the close relationship between these small molecules and cancer, is published in the journal MedComm – Oncology.

The paper is titled "miRNA Interplay: Mechanisms and therapeutic interventions in cancer."

miRNA is a type of non-coding RNA that does not encode proteins, but can target more than 60% of human protein-coding genes. They play crucial roles in cell growth, differentiation, development, and apoptosis, and their dysfunction is closely linked to numerous diseases.

Almost all known cancer cells have the ability to control gene expression using miRNAs, making the impact of miRNAs particularly significant in cancer.

On the technological front of molecular mechanism research, RNA Sequencing Technology and CRISPR/Cas9 have enriched the understanding of miRNA mechanisms and functions. By analyzing relevant data and constructing tools and algorithms, as well as integrating multi-omics data, researchers are continuously driven to explore miRNA targets and mechanisms.

The molecular mechanisms of miRNA are complex and diverse, with interactions with ceRNAs (long non-coding RNAs and circular RNAs), mRNA, RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), and other miRNAs.

Beyond their roles inside cells, miRNAs can be secreted into the extracellular fluid and transported to target cells via vesicles. These extracellular miRNAs act as chemical messengers, mediating intercellular communication, thereby amplifying their impact on cancer.

miRNA offers a fresh perspective for cancer diagnosis. It is widely present in body fluids, and numerous studies have shown that its expression is correlated with the occurrence and progression of cancer. Therefore, it is an ideal biomarker with broad applications in cancer detection, prognosis, and disease monitoring.

A new chapter in cancer treatment: Innovative strategies and technologies of miRNA
A. miRNA and circulating miRNA in extracellular vesicles can be obtained from cancer tissues and blood samples. B. miRNA detection is characterized by stability, specific expression, and low trauma. C. Techniques such as RT-PCR, in situ hybridization, Northern blot, deep sequencing, microarray chips, and nanotechnology enable efficient miRNA detection. D. miRNA can serve as biomarkers for cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and predicting drug efficacy. Credit: Shiwei Duan

miRNA is also a therapeutic molecule with broad prospects. In past cancer treatment research related to miRNA, the development of miRNA Mimics and Inhibitors emerged first, followed by the integration of nanoparticle-based miRNA therapy delivery systems to improve target specificity, thereby enhancing therapeutic efficacy. CAR-T, as a natural carrier, has been deeply explored by miRNA drug developers.

Drug resistance poses a major challenge in cancer treatment, with research indicating that miRNA is crucial in cancer cells' resistance mechanisms. Intervention strategies targeting drug-resistant miRNAs are becoming a hot topic in emerging research.

A new chapter in cancer treatment: Innovative strategies and technologies of miRNA
A. miRNA mimics enhance miRNA effects, while miRNA inhibitors bind to and inhibit miRNA. B. miRNA can be delivered via viral or non-viral carriers, offering stability and specific release. CAR-T cells can also be used for targeted therapy. C. miRNA therapy can be combined with traditional treatments like immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy for precision and personalized treatment. Credit: Shiwei Duan

By integrating the latest technological approaches, such as novel forms of cell death, drug repurposing, combination therapies, recombinant RNA technology, and multivalent RNA nanoparticles, there is hope for new solutions to overcome drug resistance.

The continuous emergence of new technologies and interdisciplinary integration is constantly promoting the expansion of miRNA applications.

More information:
Zehua Wang et al, miRNA interplay: Mechanisms and therapeutic interventions in cancer, MedComm – Oncology (2024). DOI: 10.1002/mog2.93

Provided by Sichuan International Medical Exchange and Promotion Association

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