MiRNA-based Therapeutics for Lung Cancer.

BACKGROUND: miRNA, a small non-coding RNA molecule containing about 22 nucleotides, functions in RNA silencing and post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. With these qualities, miRNAs modulate multiple signaling pathways involved in cancer development, such as cellular proliferation, apoptosis, and migration.

METHODS: The goal of this review is to discuss possible miRNAs-based therapeutic strategies, through defining performance of miRNAs in carcinogenesis, in particular in lung cancer.

RESULTS: miRNA, a non-coding RNA, is divided into two main types: tumor suppressor miRNAs and oncogenic miRNAs. In addition, special processed miRNAs can be an assistant therapeutic tool.

CONCLUSION: In order to develope antitumor therapy, miRNAs-based therapeutic strategies are worth of deeper studies. In this process, the stability, effectiveness, and side effects should be considered.