MicroRNA dysregulation in oral pathology: Implications for diagnosis and therapy

Dear Editor, We are writing to provide an in-depth overview of the intriguing role of microRNA (miRNA) dysregulation in the realm of oral pathology and medicine. MicroRNAs, small non-coding RNAs, are increasingly recognized as pivotal players in the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression, and their aberrant expression patterns have gathered significant attention within the context of various diseases, including oral pathologies [1].
Recent research has unveiled the multifaceted involvement of miRNAs in oral health and diseases, which has transformative implications for both diagnosis and therapeutic strategy. Here, we aimed to explore some of the key findings in this rapidly increasing field.

Oral squamous cell carcinoma: the role of miRNA families

One compelling area of investigation centers around the miR-200 family, specifically miR-200b. This miRNA has been shown to modulate the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), a critical process in tumor invasion and metastasis [2]. Downregulation of miR-200b is associated with increased EMT markers, contributing to the aggressive behavior of OSCC cells. Additionally, miR-98 has been reported to downregulate cell lines and tissues in OSCC, demonstrating an anti-cancerous effect [3].
MiR-20a, a member of the miR-17-92 cluster, has gained attention for its potential role in OSCC. Wang et al. [4] conducted a meta-analysis and systematic review, indicating that miR-20a is associated with human cancers and has prognostic implications. Furthermore, Nakamura et al. [5] suggested that miR-20a inhibits cell migration in oral cancer and may serve as a prognostic marker for OSCC. Geng et al. [6] also identified miR-20a as a potential biomarker for early screening of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). These studies collectively support the relevance of miR-20a in malignancies, including its potential role in OSCC.
Huang et al. [7] highlighted miR-20a as a promising biomarker for predicting prognosis in human cancer through a meta-analysis. Additionally, Hue et al.’s [8] study demonstrated that human papillomavirus type 16 E7 (HPV16E7) inhibits the proliferation, invasion, and meta­stasis of OSCC by up-regulating the expression of miR-20a. These findings shed light on the intricate regulatory networks involving miR-20a in cancer progression.
However, the activation of genetic tracts in oral carcinoma is influenced by...


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