Introduction: Glioma is a group of tumors that are usually derived from the glial cells of the central nervous system and glioblastoma is the deadliest among them. It has a dismal prognosis and no potential cure at this point. Thus, there is an utmost need for novel, more effective therapeutics, and early and accurate diagnostics for improved survival of glioma patients. MicroRNAs, having altered expression in glioma and being excellent regulators of gene expression with multi-pathway targeting abilities, offer to be a suitable candidate.
Areas covered: This review summarizes microRNA-based patents that have been granted in the fields of diagnostics and therapeutics of glioma until May 2020. A comprehensive discussion has been attempted, delving into the claims and basis of each patent.
Expert opinion: MicroRNA-based anti-cancer research has been extensively carried out throughout the last decade and the results look promising. These molecules can be efficient biomarkers of glioma and used as therapeutic targets/agents. But, just like any other evolving medical technology, it also faces challenges for moving from the bench to the bedside. However, if correctly addressed, these problems can be overcome, and microRNA-based technologies can advance to be efficient tools for the treatment of glioma.
Keywords: Biomarker; cancer; diagnosis; glioblastoma; glioma; miRNA; microRNA; patents; prognosis; therapeutics.