Role of MicroRNAs in Human Osteosarcoma: Future Perspectives

Osteosarcoma (OS) is a rare form of cancer with high death rate but is one of the most frequent forms of bone cancer in children and adolescents. MiRNAs are small endogenous RNAs that regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally. The discovery of miRNAs could allow us to obtain an earlier diagnosis, predict prognosis and chemoresistance, and lead to the discovery of new treatments in different types of tumors, including OS. Despite the fact that there is currently only one clinical trial being carried out on a single miRNA for solid tumors, it is very probable that the number of clinical trials including miRNAs as prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers, as well as potential therapeutic targets, will increase in the near future. This review summarizes the different miRNAs related to OS and their possible therapeutic application.

Automated summary

Osteosarcoma is a rare but highly deadly cancer, especially among children and adolescents. The discovery of miRNAs holds potential for earlier diagnosis, prognosis prediction, and development of new therapies for various types of tumors, including OS. The number of clinical trials involving miRNAs as prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers, as well as therapeutic targets, is likely to increase in the near future.