Modulating microRNAs in cancer: next-generation therapies

MicroRNAs(miRNAs) are a class of endogenously expressed non-coding regulators of the genome with an ability to mediate a variety of biological and pathological processes. There is growing evidence demonstrating frequent dysregulation of micro RNAs in cancer cells, which is associated with tumor initiation, development, migration, invasion, resisting cell death, and drug resistance. Studies have shown that modulation of these small RNAs is a novel and promising therapeutic tool in the treatment of a variety of diseases, especially cancer, due to their broad influence on multiple cellular processes. However, suboptimal delivery of the appropriate mi RNA to the cancer sites, quick degradation by nucleases in the blood circulation, and off target effects have limited their research and clinical applications. Therefore, there is a pressing need to improve the therapeutic efficacy of mi RNA modulators, while at the same time reducing their toxicities. Several delivery vehicles for miRNA modulators have been shown to be effective in vitro and in vivo. In this review, we will discuss the role and importance of mi RNAs in cancer and provide perspectives on currently available carriers for mi RNA modulation. We will also summarize the challenges and prospects for the clinical translation of mi RNAbased therapeutic strategies.