Role of MicroRNAs in Breast Cancer Metastasis to the Brain: A New Therapeutic Perspective

GMJ, 2023 · DOI: 10.31661/gmj.v12i.3193 · Published: October 23, 2023

Simple Explanation

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression by binding to the messenger RNA (mRNA) of specific genes. Breast cancer (BC) metastasis to the brain poses a formidable clinical challenge, resulting in poor patient outcomes and limited treatment options. Hence, manipulating the expression levels of specific miRNAs and/or targeting miRNA-mRNA interactions could provide novel therapeutic strategies.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Patients with Breast Cancer

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
MiR-10b has been identified as a metastasis-promoting miRNA, influencing tumor invasiveness and enhancing colonization of BC cells to the brain by targeting various genes involved in cell adhesion and angiogenesis
2
miR-520h has been shown to suppress the expression of genes associated with the epithelial-mesenchymal transition, thus inhibiting BC cell migration and invasion to the brain
3
Elevated circulating levels of miR-210 have been correlated with an increased risk of brain metastasis, suggesting its utility as a predictive biomarker for identifying patients at higher risk of developing brain metastasis

Research Summary

The role of miRNAs in BC metastasis to the brain represents a potential treatment approach. Hence, by investigating the complex networks of miRNA-based molecular alterations and their potential role as prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets, we could provide more effective personalized strategies to reduce metastasis rates, especially to the brain, in patients with BC. Close collaboration and interdisciplinary efforts among neurosurgeons, researchers, oncologists, geneticists, and bioinformatics are necessary to integrate miRNA-based approaches into standard clinical practice.

Practical Implications

Personalized Treatment Strategies

Investigating miRNA networks could lead to more effective personalized strategies to reduce metastasis rates in BC patients.

Biomarker Development

miRNAs could serve as prognostic biomarkers for identifying patients at higher risk of developing brain metastasis.

Therapeutic Targets

Manipulating miRNA expression or targeting miRNA-mRNA interactions offers potential novel therapeutic strategies for BC brain metastasis.

Study Limitations

1
Further elucidation of the intricate interplay between miRNAs and their target genes is essential
2
Successful translation of findings into clinical practice requires more study
3
Integration of miRNA-based approaches into standard clinical practice requires interdisciplinary efforts.

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