Role of microRNAs in remodeling the tumor microenvironment (Review)

Int J Oncol. 2020 Feb;56(2):407-416. doi: 10.3892/ijo.2019.4952. Epub 2019 Dec 24.

Abstract

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short non‑coding RNAs that are known to regulate gene expression at the post‑transcriptional level. miRNA expression is often deregulated in several human cancers, affecting the communication between tumor stroma and tumor cells, among other functions. Understanding the role of miRNAs in the tumor microenvironment is crucial for fully elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying tumor progression and exploring novel diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. The present review focused on the role of miRNAs in remodeling the tumor microenvironment, with an emphasis on their impact on tumor growth, metastasis and resistance to treatment, as well as their potential clinical applications.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents / pharmacology
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Disease Progression
  • Drug Resistance, Neoplasm / genetics
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic*
  • Humans
  • MicroRNAs / metabolism*
  • Neoplasm Metastasis / genetics
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Neoplasms / pathology
  • Tumor Microenvironment / drug effects
  • Tumor Microenvironment / genetics*

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • MicroRNAs