Abstract

AMARAL, Bruna Aguiar do et al. MicroRNAs: biogenesis, functions and its potential role in oral carcinogenesis. Odontol. Clín.-Cient. (Online) [online]. 2010, vol.9, n.2, pp. 105-109. ISSN 1677-3888.

MicroRNAs (miRNA) are small noncoding RNAs, preserved throughout the evolution, able to regulate gene expression through repression of translation or degradation of target molecules of messenger RNA. The expression of miRNA is deregulated in several pathological processes, including cancer. Depending on the context and the cell is type they are expressed, one can view miRNA oncogenic or tumor suppressor activity. Thus, the function of miRNA may ultimately depend on the specific microenvironment of a particular cell type, which can provide different repertoire of target genes. However, changes in expression of miRNA may be secondary to the tumor phenotype. Thus, is not completely clear whether the altered expression of miRNAs is cause or consequence of malignant transformation. This study performs a literature review of miRNA, focusing on aspects related to biogenesis, mechanisms of action and potential role of these small RNAs in oral carcinogenesis.

Keywords : Cancer; MicroRNA; Oral cavity; Carcinogenesis.