Function of microRNA-124 in the pathogenesis of cancer (Review)

Abstract

Non-coding RNAs with a length of 22-24 nt are known as microRNAs (miRNAs or miRs), which are critical regulators of protein translation. Over the past 10 years, the roles of miRNAs have been extensively investigated in several human cancer types. There is evidence to indicate that miRNAs regulate gene expression by concentrating on a number of substances that have an impact on the physiology and development of cancer cells. Thus, miRNAs as regarded as effective targets for further studies on the design of novel therapeutic strategies. Hepatocellular carcinoma, breast, prostate, and ovarian cancer are only a few of the cancers that miR-124 suppresses. Furthermore, it has been shown that miR-124 is linked to the development and aggressive spread of malignancies. The aim of the present review was to clarify and highlight the role of miR-124 in the development and progression of cancer, emphasizing recent research illustrating how miR-124 has been used as a therapeutic agent against cancer, as well as the diagnostic potential, regulatory mechanisms and clinical application of miR-124.