MicroRNAs are a class of small, non-coding RNAs that can negatively regulate protein-coding genes, and are associated with almost all known physiological and pathological processes, especially cancer. The number of studies documenting miRNA expression patterns in malignancy continues to expand rapidly, with continuously gained critical information regarding how aberrantly expressed miRNAs may contribute to carcinogenesis. miRNAs can influence cancer pathogenesis, playing a potential role as either oncogenes or tumour suppressors. Recently, several miRNAs have been reported to exert different regulatory functions in oesophageal cancer - the carcinoma typically arising from the epithelial lining of the oesophagus. These miRNAs also have potential clinical applications towards developing biomarkers or targets for possible use in diagnosis or therapy in oesophageal cancer. In this review, we have summarized the two (oncogenic or tumour suppressive) roles of miRNAs here, and their applications as potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets, which may illuminate future treatment for oesophageal cancer.

Cancer accounts for almost one sixth of global deaths, which has become a major cause of death. There are various studies concerning the development of cancer. It has been found that genetic factors, low immunity and gene mutations are the main reasons for the body's cells losing their normal regulation and over proliferating. Those finally contributes to tumorigenesis. With the development of technology and a large number of investments in research, we know more about the causes of disease. Especially the mechanism of carcinogenesis on physical and chemical factors, which contributes to the future research on treatment. Although many treatments such as surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy are available, not all types and stages of cancer can be cured. Currently 30-50% of cancers could be prevented by avoiding risk factors and implementing existing evidence-based prevention strategies. Therefore, research on cancer-causing factors is necessary. In this article, I will categorize the carcinogenesis factors in three categories: physical factors, chemical factors and biological factors. I will also discuss and summarize some specific cancer-causing mechanisms. This article will provide reference and new idea for future research on mechanism and treatment of cancer.

No abstract