Modern mRNA-based molecular diagnostics for prediction of urothelial carcinoma behavior

Background. Bladder cancer, or urothelial carcinoma, is a common, aggressive, and still difficult to predict disease. For adequate therapy, timely diagnosis is essential since early detection of this tumor can significantly increase patient's survival at any age. Molecular genetic studies in cancer patients, including those with urothelial carcinoma, are becoming increasingly important. A number of major molecular genetic biomarkers of urothelial carcinoma are described in the world literature and used in clinical practice, however, information on the role of microRNA (miRNA) studies in the diagnosis of this disease has become available only in recent years.

Aim. To examine information of the world literature on the significance of miRNA identification in resected bladder tissues with non-muscle invasive urothelial tumors.

Materials and methods. We studied information from the world medical literature in the PubMed, CrossRef and Scopus databases dated between 2001 and 2022 on the significance of miRNA identification in resected bladder tissues with non-muscle invasive urothelial tumors.

Results. The results of the studies demonstrate that predictive levels of some miRNAs, as well as their associated proteins, should be assessed in the original tumor tissue and urinary vesicles in different clinical settings. The use of molecular genetic research, as one of the new diagnostic methods, will allow to personalize treatment for a particular patient and, if necessary, make a choice in favor of a more aggressive treatment method. In turn, this will increase the overall survival and quality of life of patients with aggressive tumors.

Conclusion. The next few years may bring many new discoveries that will help to unlock the secrets of miRNA dysregulation in urothelial carcinoma, leading to development and application of new targeted therapies in this patient population.

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