Circulating miRNAs: Potential Biomarkers for Diagnosis and Prognosis Prediction of Hematological Malignancies

Abstract

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding, single-stranded, endogenous RNAs of 19-25nt in length. They are readily detected in body fluids including serum, plasma, urine, saliva, even circulating cancer cells. With the salient features as high stability, low cost, repeatability of sampling and minimal invasiveness, circulating miRNAs are ideal for development into diagnostic tests. Emerging evidences indicated that circulating miRNAs exert a role as noninvasive biomarkers for cancer diagnostic and prognostic indexes with prospective. In this mini review, emphasis will be given to the application of plasma or serum miRNAs as biomarkers for hematological malignancies focusing on the usefulness for diagnosis and prognosis.