Unlocking the potential of non-coding RNAs in cancer research and therapy

Abstract

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have emerged as key regulators of gene expression, with growing evidence implicating their involvement in cancer development and progression. The potential of ncRNAs as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for cancer is promising, with emphasis on their use in liquid biopsy and tissue-based diagnostics. In a nutshell, the review comprehensively summarizes the diverse classes of ncRNAs implicated in cancer, including microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs, and their functions and mechanisms of action. Furthermore, we describe the potential therapeutic applications of ncRNAs, including anti-miRNA oligonucleotides, siRNAs, and other RNA-based therapeutics in cancer treatment. However, significant challenges remain in developing effective ncRNA-based diagnostics and therapeutics, including the lack of specificity, limited understanding of mechanisms, and delivery challenges. This review also covers the current state-of-the-art non-coding RNA research technologies and bioinformatic analysis tools. Lastly, we outline future research directions in non-coding RNA research in cancer, including developing novel biomarkers, therapeutic targets, and modalities. In summary, this review provides a comprehensive understanding of non-coding RNAs in cancer and their potential clinical applications, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges in this rapidly evolving field.