Unraveling Therapeutic Opportunities and the Diagnostic Potential of microRNAs for Human Lung Cancer

Abstract

Lung cancer is a major public health problem and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Despite advances in treatment options, the five-year survival rate for lung cancer patients remains low, emphasizing the urgent need for innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for lung cancer due to their crucial roles in regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. For example, miR-34a and miR-150, once delivered to lung cancer via liposomes or nanoparticles, can inhibit tumor growth by downregulating critical cancer promoting genes. Conversely, miR-21 and miR-155, frequently overexpressed in lung cancer, are associated with increased cell proliferation, invasion, and chemotherapy resistance. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of the roles of miRNAs in lung carcinogenesis, especially those induced by exposure to environmental pollutants, namely, arsenic and benzopyrene, which account for up to 1/10 of lung cancer cases. We then discuss the recent advances in miRNA-based cancer therapeutics and diagnostics. Such information will provide new insights into lung cancer pathogenesis and innovative diagnostic and therapeutic modalities based on miRNAs.

Mir-21 Regulates Growth and Migration of Cervical Cancer Cells by RECK Signaling Pathway

“…Several studies indicate that overexpression of miR-21 [44,54,55] decreased expression of RECK [11,56,57] ] in different malignancies are probably involved in the metastasis process. Such evidence supports a tight association between disruption of miR-21 and RECK gene expression and the development of gynecological malignancies.…”

MiR-21 Regulates Growth and Migration of Cervical Cancer Cells by RECK Signaling Pathway

“…Several studies indicate that overexpression of miR-21 [47,57,58] and decreased expression of RECK [14,59,60] in different malignancies are probably involved in the metastasis process. Such evidence supports a tight association between disruption of miR-21 and RECK gene expression and the development of gynecological malignancies.…”

MicroRNA-34 Family in Cancers: Role, Mechanism, and Therapeutic Potential

“…Codelivering miR-34 mimics with complementary therapeutics is gaining traction due to its potential to enhance cancer treatment. This approach concurrently targets multiple critical pathways in tumor growth, creating a synergistic effect that boosts treatment outcomes [181,182]. Effective codelivery strategies, including nanodelivery systems, combination therapies, and innovative drug formulations like liposomes and nanoparticles, should align with the specific cancer type and treatment options [183,184].…”

“…These multifaceted approaches offer substantial benefits. The selection of specific codelivery strategies should be guided by preclinical studies and clinical trials tailored to the specific cancer type and treatment options [181,182]. Here, we highlight the potential benefits of the codelivery approaches.…”