Keywords
1. MicroRNA therapy colorectal cancer
2. miRNA diagnostic biomarkers
3. RNA interference colorectal treatment
4. Translational research miRNA cancer
5. Autophagy inhibitors cancer therapy
The world of cancer therapy is on the verge of a significant breakthrough thanks to the transformative power of microRNAs (miRNAs) in treating colorectal cancer (CRC). With the global scientific community’s unrelenting efforts, these tiny RNA molecules have moved from being mere subjects of academic curiosity to potential therapeutic targets and diagnostic biomarkers. This article delves into the remarkable journey of miRNAs from the laboratory to possible clinical applications in combating one of the most common cancers worldwide.
Colorectal cancer remains a deadly adversary, being the third most diagnosed cancer globally. Despite advancements in screening and treatment, the need for more effective therapeutic strategies and early detection methods is urgent. Fortunately, miRNAs may be the key to unlocking groundbreaking interventions.
MicroRNAs in the Spotlight
MicroRNAs, typically 19-22 nucleotides in length, are non-coding RNA molecules that have a pivotal role in gene regulation. By selectively binding to messenger RNAs (mRNAs), miRNAs can downregulate the expression of specific genes, influencing cancer progression, metastasis, and response to treatment (Bilegsaikhan et al., 2018).
A study dated 2019 by McGregor and Price highlighted the potential of miRNAs as therapeutic targets in colorectal cancer (McGregor & Price, 2019). This discussion emphasized the need to address miRNAs within the broader context of biomedical translational research – a field focused on converting scientific discoveries into health improvements.
miRNAs and CRC: A Diagnostic Breakthrough
The quest to identify reliable biomarkers for early CRC detection has led researchers down intriguing paths, with circulating miRNAs in the bloodstream showing significant promise. For instance, circulating miR-338-5p has been identified as a potential diagnostic biomarker for CRC (Bilegsaikhan et al., 2018). The advantage of such biomarkers is the possibility of non-invasive testing, leading to early diagnosis and subsequently better patient outcomes.
Therapeutic Potential and Challenges
In therapeutic contexts, miRNAs could target crucial pathways involved in CRC development and progression. For example, miR-338-5p has been associated with the regulation of the autophagy pathway, which is vital for maintaining cellular homeostasis. Aberrations in autophagy are commonly observed in various cancers, including CRC (Chu et al., 2019). Therefore, modulating miRNAs could offer a means to control autophagy and, by extension, cancer progression.
However, translating miRNA research into viable treatments faces hurdles. These include delivering miRNAs effectively to tumor cells and understanding the complex network of gene regulation in which they are involved.
From Lab to Clinic: Trials and Triumphs
Several clinical trials have examined the nexus between autophagy and cancer therapy. Rangwala and colleagues explored a combination therapy of hydroxychloroquine, an autophagy inhibitor, and temsirolimus, showing promising results in advanced solid tumors and melanoma (Rangwala et al., 2014). Similarly, the anti-cancer effect of chloroquine, another autophagy modulator, has been tested in combination with the chemotherapeutic agent 5-fluorouracil in CRC cells (Sasaki et al., 2010).
The Future of miRNA Therapeutics
As the therapeutic landscape for CRC continues to evolve, miRNA-based therapies offer a beacon of hope. The potential for these molecules to serve as both biomarkers and therapeutic agents is a testament to their versatility and the complexity of cancer biology. The integration of miRNAs into personalized medicine could change the dynamic of cancer care, ushering in a new era of targeted treatments that capitalize on the molecular underpinnings of the disease.
Conclusion: Building Toward a Cure
In conclusion, the pioneering efforts of researchers like McGregor and Price have Layed the groundwork for a future where miRNA-based interventions encapsulate the best of precision medicine. While challenges persist, the remarkable progress in understanding and manipulating miRNAs brings us closer to realizing their full therapeutic potential in colorectal cancer. As we forge ahead, the promise of turning miRNAs into treatments offers a glimpse of a future where colorectal cancer may no longer be a daunting diagnosis.
References
1. Bilegsaikhan, E., Liu, H.N., Shen, X.Z., Liu, T.T. (2018). Circulating miR-338-5p is a potential diagnostic biomarker in colorectal cancer. J Dig Dis, 19(7), 404–410. DOI: 10.1111/1751-2980.12643.
2. McGregor, M.M., & Price, T.J. (2019). Moving miRNAs to therapeutic targets in colorectal cancer. EBioMedicine, 43, 13-14. DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2019.04.051.
3. Chu, C.-A., Lee, C.-T., Lee, J.-C., Wang, Y.-W., Huang, C.-T., Lan, S.-H. (2019). MiR-338-5p promotes metastasis of colorectal cancer by the inhibition of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, catalytic subunit type 3-mediated autophagy pathway. EBioMedicine DOI: https://www.ebiomedicine.com/article/S2352-3964(19)30244-0/fulltext.
4. Rangwala, R., Chang, Y.C., Hu, J., Algazy, K.M., Evans, T.L., Fecher, L.A., et al. (2014). Combined MTOR and autophagy inhibition: phase I trial of hydroxychloroquine and temsirolimus in patients with advanced solid tumors and melanoma. Autophagy, 10(1391-1402). DOI: 10.4161/auto.29365.
5. Sasaki, K., Tsuno, N.H., Sunami, E., Tsurita, G., Kawai, K., Okaji, Y. (2010). Chloroquine potentiates the anti-cancer effect of 5-fluorouracil on colon cancer cells. BMC Cancer, 10, 370. DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-10-370.