Melodic maestros: Unraveling the role of miRNAs in the diagnosis, progression, and drug resistance of malignant pleural mesothelioma

Pathol Res Pract. 2023 Oct:250:154817. doi: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154817. Epub 2023 Sep 13.

Abstract

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a highly lethal form of pleural cancer characterized by a scarcity of effective therapeutic interventions, resulting in unfavorable prognoses for afflicted individuals. Besides, many patients experience substantial consequences from being diagnosed in advanced stages. The available diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic options for MPM are restricted in scope. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a subset of small, noncoding RNA molecules that exert significant regulatory influence over several cellular processes within cell biology. A wide range of miRNAs have atypical expression patterns in cancer, serving specific functions as either tumor suppressors or oncomiRs. This review aims to collate, epitomize, and analyze the latest scholarly investigations on miRNAs that are believed to be implicated in the dysregulation leading to MPM. miRNAs are also discussed concerning their potential clinical usefulness as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for MPM. The future holds promising prospects for enhancing diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic modalities for MPM, with miRNAs emerging as a potential trigger for such advancements.

Keywords: Diagnosis; Drug resistance; MPM; Malignant pleural mesothelioma; MiRNA; Prognosis.

Publication types

  • Review