Emerging molecular functions of microRNA-124: cancer pathology and therapeutic implications

Publication date: Available online 20 January 2020Source: Pathology - Research and PracticeAuthor(s): Maryam Moghadasi, Mohammadreza Alivand, Masoumeh Fardi, Kobra Shojaei Moghadam, Saeed SolaliAbstractMicroRNAs are characterized as small, single-stranded, non-coding RNA molecules that bind to their target mRNA to prevent protein synthesis. MicroRNAs regulate various normal processes; however, they are aberrantly regulated in many cancers. They control the expression of various genes, including cancer-related genes. This causes microRNAs to be considered as a good target for further investigations for designing novel therapeutic strategies.Since miR124 is known for some time already, it has a tumor-suppressing role in various cancers. Numerous studies indicate its definite roles in malignant processes such as epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, cell cycle arrest, metastasis, cancer stem cell formation and induction of apoptosis. However, some studies have indicated a dual role for miR-124 in oncogenic processes like autophagy and multi-drug resistance. In this article, we will review recent researches on the biological functions and clinical implications of miR-124. Subsequently, we will discuss future perspectives in terms of the roles of this miRNA in cancers.
Source: Pathology Research and Practice - Category: Pathology Source Type: research