Metastasis and cell proliferation inhibition by microRNAs and its potential therapeutic applications in OSCC: A systematic review

Background and Aims

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is among the most malignant cancers in the world and has a high mortality rate. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have progressively gained attention due to their roles in the pathogenesis and maintenance of various kinds of cancers, including OSCC. In this research, we carried out a scoping review to analyze the role of miRNA and therapeutic response in OSCC and focus on target axes associated with miRNA that inhibit metastasis and cell proliferation in OSCC.

Methods

This review adhered to a six-stage methodology framework and PRISMA guidelines. Three databases were systematically searched to find eligible articles until July 2024. Two reviewers conducted publication screening and data extraction independently. 54 articles meeting the predefined inclusion criteria were successfully identified. Quality assessment was done using the QUIN checklist specified for dental in vitro studies.

Results

Studies with different designs reported 53 miRNAs that were experimentally validated to act as therapeutic targets in OSCC in vivo and in vitro studies. The study found that 25 miRNAs were up-regulated in OSCC patients and cell lines, while another 25 were down-regulated. Mir-186 was also found to be up- and down-regulated in two different investigations. The study highlights the potential of six microRNAs (miR-32–5p, miR-195–5p, miR-3529–3p, miR-191, miR-146b-5p, and miR-377–3p) as anti-proliferation, migration, and invasion therapeutics for OSCC treatment. Two miRNAs (miR-302b and miR-18a) are identified as anti-metastatic therapeutics, while four miRNAs (miR-617, miR-23a-3p, miR-105, miR-101) are anti-proliferation therapeutics.

Conclusion

The study recommends that restoring the expression of tumor suppressor miRNAs may be a suitable cancer therapy. Utilizing this technology does present certain difficulties, and resolving them will improve the methods for miRNA transfer to target cells. With more research and the resolution of associated issues, miRNA can be employed as an efficient therapeutic method for OSCC.