The Role of miRNAs and lncRNAs in Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma - a Mini-Review

Abstract

Laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma is a common malignancy in men. Bulgaria is one of the countries in Europe with the highest incidence and mortality rates of the aggressive, severe disease of laryngeal cancer. Proven etiological factors are the abuse of tobacco and alcohol beverages. Despite the progress of technologies of multimodal medical treatment, survival rates have not reached satisfactory levels. Over the last few decades, scientific and clinical research data have led to a growing interest in exploring potential biomarkers. In the last years, non-coding RNAs have become promising biomarkers. They are important key regulators in both normal and tumour specific biological processes as well as in the response to environmental factors and treatment, including chemo- and radiotherapy. Studies have shown ectopic expression of a number of ncRNAs in laryngeal cancer. Published data provide evidence of the lncRNAs and miRNAs that could help us better understand complex carcinogenesis in laryngeal cancer and would provide reliable diagnostic, prognostic and predictive biomarkers.