Diagnostic and Therapeutic Role of Micrornas in Cancer

Abstract

Micro RNAs are single-stranded non-coding RNAs found in eukaryotic cells that can be approximately 20-24 nucleotides in length. miRNAs can regulate the expression of various genes at the post-transcriptional level by binding to specific genes. They are involved in the translational regulation of gene expression. miRNAs play an important role in regulating various developmental processes, cell proliferation and survival processes. Abnormal expression of miRNAs has been found to be associated with development of cancer and other diseases. They may be effective in the pathogenesis of cancer by showing tumor suppressor, oncogenic or both effects. At the same time, miRNA levels have the potential role to be used as biomarkers in the diagnosis of diseases. Therefore, understanding the mechanism of action and biological aspects of miRNAs is very important for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. This chapter evaluates the role of miRNAs in cancer pathogenesis as well as their importance in diagnosis and treatment processes.