title: MicroRNA dysregulation in cancer: opportunities for the development of microRNA-based drugs.
abstract: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are 19- to 24-nucleotide, non-coding RNAs that have been implicated in both solid and hematological malignancies. Given the ability of miRNAs to target multiple genes and key biological processes, these molecules have received intensive research interest both as biomarkers and as therapeutic agents. The prospect of leveraging miRNAs to complement current therapeutic strategies in cancer is appealing, but is also complex. Simultaneously targeting multiple genes has both advantages and disadvantages for miRNA therapeutic delivery, and achieving target organ specificity while limiting off-target effects remains a major challenge in the translation of novel discoveries in research to the successful therapeutic delivery of miRNA in the clinic. This feature review discusses the current status of therapeutic approaches for miRNA in cancer, as well as potential challenges and future strategies.
authors.affiliation: Ohio State University, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, 473 West 12th Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210, USA.
authors.forename: S Patrick
authors.initials: SP
authors.lastname: Nana-Sinkam
authors.forename: Carlo M
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Croce
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor / Q000378:metabolism; D016503:Drug Delivery Systems; D019008:Drug Resistance, Neoplasm; D006801:Humans; D035683:MicroRNAs / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D058990:Molecular Targeted Therapy; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000628:therapy
chemical_list: D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor; D035683:MicroRNAs