The Role of MicroRNAs in Cancer Pathogenesis: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play pivotal roles in cancer pathogenesis by regulating gene expression and influencing critical cellular processes. This comprehensive review examines the dysregulation of key miRNAs in various aspects of cancer biology, including cell proliferation, invasion, metastasis, immune response modulation, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Through a systematic analysis of observed alterations, target genes, and functional responses, we highlight the diverse functional roles of miRNAs across different cancer types. Notable findings include the upregulation of miR-21 in promoting cell proliferation and metastasis, the tumor-suppressive effects of downregulated miR-34a, and the immune-modulatory role of miR-155. Furthermore, we elucidate the intricate regulatory networks orchestrated by dysregulated miRNAs and their crosstalk with target genes, emphasizing their impact on tumor microenvironment dynamics. The study also discusses the diagnostic and therapeutic implications of dysregulated miRNAs in cancer, emphasizing their potential as non-invasive biomarkers for cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment response prediction. Additionally, targeting dysregulated miRNAs holds promise for precision medicine approaches aimed at overcoming therapy resistance and modulating oncogenic signaling pathways. However, challenges such as standardization of miRNA profiling techniques and validation of biomarkers in large patient cohorts need to be addressed for effective clinical translation. Overall, this study advances our understanding of the role of miRNAs in cancer biology and underscores their potential as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets in precision cancer medicine. Further research efforts are warranted to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying miRNA dysregulation and explore innovative therapeutic strategies for personalized cancer treatment