Abstract:
MicroRNAs (miRNA) are small non-coding RNAs that are 20–23 nucleotides in length,
functioning as regulators of oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes. They are molecular modulators
that regulate gene expression by suppressing gene translation through gene silencing/degradation,
or by promoting translation of messenger RNA (mRNA) into proteins. Circulating miRNAs have
attracted attention as possible prognostic markers of cancer, which could aid in the early detection
of the disease. Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been implicated in tumorigenic
processes, primarily by promoting tumor invasiveness and metastatic activity; this is a process that
could be manipulated to halt or prevent brain metastasis. Studies show that miRNAs influence
the function of EMT in glioblastomas. Thus, miRNA-related EMT can be exploited as a potential
therapeutic target in glioblastomas. This review points out the interrelation between miRNA and
EMT signatures, and how they can be used as reliable molecular signatures for diagnostic purposes
or targeted therapy in glioblastomas.
