Oral Oncology Reports (Jun 2024)
Pivotal role of MiRNA's in malignant transformation of Oral Submucous Fibrosis
Abstract
This review explores MicroRNAs' (miRNAs) role in Oral Submucous Fibrosis (OSMF) malignant transformation. OSMF, a potentially life-threatening disorder, exhibits a 7.6% to 13% probability of malignant transformation. MiRNAs like miR-21 and miR-29b play crucial roles in OSMF pathogenesis, affecting fibrosis and malignancy. Their dysregulation impacts TGF-/Smad and Wnt/-catenin signaling pathways, contributing to fibrotic alterations. OSMF malignant transformation involves genetic and epigenetic changes, with miR-34 and miR-1246 implicated in increased cell proliferation and invasiveness. MiRNAs hold diagnostic and prognostic potential in OSMF. Specific miRNA signatures correlate with disease development, aiding in individualized risk stratification. Integrating miRNA-based techniques into precision medicine offers personalized therapeutic avenues, considering ethnic and environmental factors. MiRNA-targeted therapies, potentially combined with conventional approaches, show promise in addressing OSMF complexities. However, challenges in standardization, sample variability, and off-target effects persist. Artificial Intelligence contributes to miRNA research, enhancing target prediction and understanding disease mechanisms. Continued research is crucial for identifying additional OSMF-related miRNAs and refining diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Standardization in miRNA-based diagnostics is imperative for future implementation.