Serum and Salivary MicroRNA-31 in Early Detection of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma- a Systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Abstract Oral cancer is the sixth most common cancer in the world and the third most common cancer in developing countries. Early detection of oral cancer can reduce mortality in several ways, including using biomarkers such as MicroRNA (miRNA). MicroRNAs act as tumor suppressors or oncogenes, which play an important role in cancers such as oral cancer. Serum or Saliva miRNA is currently one of the most important biomarkers in the early detection of non-invasive oral cancer. The present study aimed to use a meta-analysis method and combine the quantitative results of articles from 2000 to 2022 on serum and saliva miRNAs for early detection of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Data analysis method: - Extraction of statistical indicators of sensitivity, specificity, and Area Under the Curve (AUC) - Use a funnel diagram to diagnose the publication bias of preliminary research before and after sensitivity analysis - Using the Cochrane Q test to determine the degree of heterogeneity in the results of preliminary studies - Use of models with fixed and random effects and meta-regression method The sensitivity index for miR-31 in the fixed model was 71.68% based on the meta-analysis. The funnel diagram shows no heterogeneity between the studies and the Begg test indicates that diffusion bias is absent based on the P-values for these indicators. Based on the results, serum, plasma, and saliva miRNAs may provide a non-invasive and cost-effective method of diagnosing HNSCC; however, large-scale controlled trials are needed to validate different miRNAs.