Role of Salivary microRNAs in Oral Cancer, a Review

Salivary microRNAs & Oral Cancer

Abstract

Head and neck cancer (HNC) is a pressing global public health concern characterized by a challenging prognosis and a higher risk of local recurrence in cases of delayed diagnosis. Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), especially prevalent, often manifests itself initially as oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD). Despite accessibility to the oral cavity, timely identification of OSCC remains a substantial challenge. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a subset of small noncoding RNAs, can be released in various bodily fluids, including blood, serum, tissue, and saliva. Moreover, previous research underscores the significant role of miRNAs from oral samples as biomarkers in diverse cancers. The primary objective of this research is to discern distinct salivary miRNAs in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. This study aims to offer an overview of the fundamental attributes of saliva, biomarker detection methods in different salivary analyzes, and the potential of salivary biomarkers in the screening, monitoring, and analysis of the molecular pathology of patients afflicted by HNC. It intends to explore the prospective role of salivary biomarkers in screening, monitoring, and diagnosing cancers impacting the oral cavity and beyond.
Inconclusion, miRNA sampling is a less invasive method than other methods, such as blood and tissue, for the early diagnosis of lesions with a potential to turn into cancer, especially oral cancer and other cancer diagnosis with reduced anxiety and pain for the patient. Moreover, it is much easier to obtain multiple samples at various times for screening and monitoring, especially potentially malignant disorders, and cancer.