Methods and novel technology for microRNA quantification in colorectal cancer screening

Abstract

The screening and diagnosis of colorectal cancer (CRC) currently relies heavily on invasive endoscopic techniques as well as imaging and antigen detection tools. More accessible and reliable biomarkers are necessary for early detection in order to expedite treatment and improve patient outcomes. Recent studies have indicated that levels of specific microRNA (miRNA) are altered in CRC; however, measuring miRNA in biological samples has proven difficult, given the complicated and lengthy PCR-based procedures used by most laboratories. In this manuscript, we examine the potential of miRNA as CRC biomarkers, summarize the methods that have commonly been employed to quantify miRNA, and focus on novel strategies that can improve or replace existing technology for feasible implementation in a clinical setting. These include isothermal amplification techniques that can potentially eliminate the need for specialized thermocycling equipment. Additionally, we propose the use of near-infrared (NIR) probes which can minimize autofluorescence and photobleaching and streamline quantification without tedious sample processing. We suggest that novel miRNA quantification tools will be necessary to encourage new discoveries and facilitate their translation to clinical practice.

MicroRNAs in Pancreatic Cancer: biomarkers, prognostic, and therapeutic modulators

“…In pancreatic cancer, different patterns have been found in miRNA expression profiles, which have contributed to the development of a miRNANome between the normal and cancerous pancreas [60]. Determination of these miRNA expression profiles has been made possible through different gene profiling methods, mainly microarrays, RNA-sequencing, and RT-PCR analysis of specimens [61]. Due to the stability of miRNA in circulation, blood screening could be employed as an approach to detect specific miRNA which have been linked with stage, survival rate or aggressiveness of the disease [62–64].…”

MicroRNA‑124 regulates TRAF6 expression and functions as an independent prognostic factor in colorectal cancer

“…An increasing number of studies have confirmed that miRNAs are active participants in the development of CRC (26,27). In addition, these small non-coding RNAs are regarded as key regulators of metastasis and EMT in human cancers (28,29).…”

Emerging microRNA biomarkers for colorectal cancer diagnosis and prognosis

“…Conventional detection methods for miRNAs are qPCR, microarray and next-generation sequencing, but no one method is completely ideal for clinical application. In order to meet clinical requirements, various methods such as isothermal amplification techniques and near-infrared technology have been established and have been summarized elsewhere [132].…”