The interplay of signaling pathways and miRNAs in the pathogenesis and targeted therapy of esophageal cancer

Pathol Res Pract. 2023 Jun:246:154529. doi: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154529. Epub 2023 May 11.

Abstract

Globally, esophageal cancer (EC) is the 6th leading cause of cancer-related deaths and the second deadliest gastrointestinal cancer. Multiple genetic and epigenetic factors, such as microRNAs (miRNAs), influence its onset and progression. miRNAs are short nucleic acid molecules that can regulate multiple cellular processes by regulating gene expression. Therefore, EC initiation, progression, apoptosis evasions, invasion capacity, promotion, angiogenesis, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) enhancement are associated with miRNA expression dysregulation. Wnt/-catenin signaling, Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)/P-gp, phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT/c-Myc, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling are crucial pathways in EC that are controlled by miRNAs. This review was conducted to provide an up-to-date assessment of the role of microRNAs in EC pathogenesis and their modulatory effects on responses to various EC treatment modalities.

Keywords: Chemoresistance; Epithelial- mesenchymal transition; Esophageal cancer; Oncogenic miRNA; Tumor suppressor miRNA.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition / genetics
  • Esophageal Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
  • Humans
  • MicroRNAs* / genetics
  • Transforming Growth Factor beta / metabolism
  • Wnt Signaling Pathway / genetics

Substances

  • MicroRNAs
  • Transforming Growth Factor beta