A2 Refereed review article in a scientific journal
MicroRNAs-Role in Lung Cancer
Authors: Guz M, Rivero-Muller A, Okon E, Stenzel-Bembenek A, Polberg K, Slomka M, Stepulak A
Publisher: HINDAWI PUBLISHING CORPORATION
Publishing place: NEW YORK; 410 PARK AVENUE, 15TH FLOOR, #287 PMB, NEW YORK, NY 10022 USA
Publication year: 2014
Journal: Disease Markers
Journal name in source: Disease markers
Journal acronym: Dis.Markers
Article number: 218169
Number of pages: 1
ISSN: 0278-0240
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1155/2014/218169
Regulation of gene expression is essential for normal physiological functions; thus deregulation of gene expression is common in disease conditions. One level of regulation of gene expression is performed by noncoding RNAs, among which microRNAs (miRNA) are the best studied. Abnormal expression of these molecular players can lead to pathogenic processes such as heart disease, immune system abnormalities, and carcinogenesis, to name but a few. Of a length of 18-25 nucleotides miRNAs are involved in binding partial complementary sequences within the 3'-UTR (3'-untranslated region) of the target mRNAs. Depending on the type of neoplastic transformation, miRNAs can act both as oncogenes (oncomirs) or as tumor suppressors. Because of the great importance of miRNAs, most researches focus on either their role as biomarkers or their potential as therapeutic targets. Herein, we present the review of microRNA biology, function, and tumorigenic potential with emphasis on their role in lung cancer.