Title:miR-124 in Neuroblastoma: Mechanistic Insights, Biomarker Potential, and Therapeutic Prospects
Volume: 21
Issue: 4
Author(s): Kandegala Mahesh Monisha, Dhanu Annyaplar Shivakumar, Dasegowda Mutthuraj, Guruswamy Nandini, Sridhar Muthusami and Kanthesh M Basalingappa*
Affiliation:
- Division of Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, JSS Academy of Higher education and Research, Mysuru-
570015, India
Keywords:
Neuroblastoma, MicroRNA-124, transcription, pathophysiology, metastasis, therapeutic target.
Abstract: Neuroblastoma, a malignancy predominantly affecting young children, originates from
neural crest cells in the sympathetic nervous system. It primarily appears in the adrenal gland but
can also affect nerve tissues in regions, such as the chest, neck, abdomen, and pelvis. Despite advancements
in treatment, high-risk neuroblastoma patients often face poor prognoses, underscoring
the need for ongoing research. This review paper examines the numerous factors responsible
for neuroblastoma, emphasizing the importance of approaching the disorder with more strategic
therapeutic methods. MicroRNAs, particularly miR-124, play critical roles in gene regulation and
cancer pathogenesis. Abundant in the brain, miR-124 functions as a tumor suppressor by inhibiting
cell growth, migration, and invasion and is often dysregulated in neuroblastoma. This study investigates
the molecular functions of miR-124 in neuroblastoma, its potential as a biomarker, and
its application in targeted therapy. MiR-124 regulates key pathways in neuroblastoma, including
PI3K/AKT, TGF-β, and p53 signaling, impacting cell proliferation, apoptosis, and metastasis. The
study also explores the promise of miR-124 as a biomarker for neuroblastoma through liquid biopsy,
enabling non-invasive diagnosis and disease monitoring. Therapeutic strategies targeting
miR-124 pathways show potential for overcoming chemotherapy resistance and improving treatment
efficacy. The research underscores the significance of miR-124 in neuroblastoma, aiming to
enhance early diagnosis, identify specific drug targets, and expand treatment options, ultimately
improving patient outcomes.
