Micro-RNAs and lung cancer: A focus on signaling pathways and therapeutics

Abstract

Micro-RNAs are short sequences of single-stranded RNA that do not code for proteins but play a crucial role in modulating gene expression in the cell. Micro-RNAs can downregulate the expression of genes and can modify different pathways that are important for proper functioning of the cells. Micro-RNAs are effective as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets against various diseases including lung cancer. In this review, we take a look at the different micro-RNAs expressed in lung cancer and their targets in various signaling pathways like Wnt, RAS/RAF, PI3K/Akt pathway etc. We also evaluate the current status of micro-RNA - based therapeutics against Small Cell Lung Cancer and Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer, both in the context of pre-clinical studies as well as clinical studies conducted on humans to date.