MicroRNAs in ovarian cancer , an overview of clinical trials

Non-coding RNAs, with a particular emphasis on microRNAs (miRNAs), have garnered significant attention in cancer genomics research. These molecular entities play crucial roles in gene regulation and have shown promise as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets in various cancers, including ovarian cancer (OC). OC, often diagnosed at advanced stages, presents challenges in treatment, with platinum-based chemotherapy resistance occurring in approximately ۲۵% of patients. This review explores the landscape of miRNA research in the context of OC diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. Objective: To critically evaluate the role of non-coding RNAs, particularly miRNAs, in ovarian cancer, synthesizing recent advancements in RNA therapeutics and diagnostic biomarkers, and assessing their potential to improve patient outcomes. Methods: This narrative review synthesizes findings from recent clinical trials investigating the efficacy and potential applications of non-coding RNAs in OC. We focus on studies that highlight the diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic implications of these molecules, especially in challenging clinical scenarios such as chemotherapy resistance. Key Findings: Emerging evidence supports the multifaceted roles of miRNAs in OC pathogenesis and management. Studies have identified specific miRNA signatures, such as miR-۲۰۰a, miR-۲۰۰b and miR-۲۰۰c, that can distinguish between malignant and benign ovarian tumors in plasma and tumor tissue bot not urine samples. in another study the level of these miRNAs plus miR-۳۷۳ have been measured by TaqMan MicroRNA assays measurements can have value of diagnosis in detecting benign tumors. Circulating miRNAs, including miR-۱۴۸b-۵p in association with PFS, have shown potential as prognostic indicators in platinum-resistant cases. miR-۱۴۲-۵p emerged as a potential sensitizer of ovarian cancer cells to treatment, primarily through its regulatory effect on the anti-apoptotic gene XIAP. This finding suggests possible avenues for overcoming treatment resistance. The tumor-suppressive role of miR-۲۱۹-۵p was elucidated through its inhibitory effects on epithelial ovarian cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Mechanistic studies revealed that this miRNA exerts its effects by modulating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, a key regulator of cancer progression. Circular RNAs, exemplified by circFBXO۷, were found to participate in complex regulatory networks. By competing with miR-۹۶-۵p, circFBXO۷ indirectly influences the expression of MTSS۱, subsequently affecting the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and potentially promoting ovarian cancer progression. In the context of chemotherapy resistance, particularly in high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC), miR-۱۸۵-۵p and miR-۳۲۶ were identified as regulators of the ATP-binding cassette transporter (ABCC۱). Conclusion: The late-stage diagnosis of ovarian cancer is a significant factor contributing to its high mortality rate, underscoring the need for early detection methods. Non-coding RNAs, particularly miRNAs, offer promising diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic avenues by acting as oncogenes, tumor suppressors, or regulators of genes involved in critical pathways such as drug metabolism, apoptosis, and DNA repair. In cases of platinum resistance, miRNAs hold great potential as part of an alternative diagnostic and therapeutic strategy.

کلیدواژه ها:

non-coding RNAs ، microRNAs ، ovarian cancer