The Structure and Clinical Roles of MicroRNA in Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most prevalent types of malignancies, particularly among individuals aged between 50 and 75. The global incidence of CRC has been steadily on the rise due in no small part to an aging population and a shift in lifestyle as well as eating habits. MicroRNAs are a group of small, noncoding, and endogenous RNA molecules that have recently emerged as key players in a broad range of pathological pathways. Moreover, dysregulation of microRNAs has been implicated in cancer development and metastasis. This review is intended to provide a brief overview of the structure, functions, and clinical roles of microRNAs. In particular, the review will focus on the discovery, the underlying mechanistic roles, and the diagnostic as well as therapeutic potentials of CRC-specific miRNAs.