MicroRNA-Based Biomarkers in Lung Cancer: Recent Advances and Potential Applications

Abstract

Introduction: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a group of small noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) that post-transcriptionally control the expression of genes by binding and degrading their target mRNAs. miRNAs can function as possible tumor suppressors or oncogenes in various cancers. Lately, miRNAs application as a biomarker (prognosis and diagnosis) for different diseases has gained much attention. miRNAs exist in a stable form in several biological materials, including tissue, plasma, and serum. The noninvasive and easy screening of miRNAs in serum, blood, tissue, and other body fluids and acceptable stability make microRNA a noticeable factor as biomarkers in human malignancies. Material and Methods: In this review, we searched some online databases like Web of Science, Embase, and PubMed to find eligible manuscripts up to the end of 2021. Results: Abnormal expressions of these molecules are associated with the incidence of many illnesses like cancer. Therefore, they are candidates as a molecular tool for noninvasive tumor prognosis and diagnosis. In the current study, we introduce important miRNAs that may be used as prognostic and diagnostic markers in lung cancer patients. Conclusion: We summarized the latest reports about critical miRNAs related to the diagnosis and prognosis in lung patients.