MicroRNAs in hematological malignancies: a novel approach to targeted therapy

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are about 19-24 nucleotide small single-stranded noncoding RNAs that are involved in crucial cell processes such as proliferation, apoptosis, and differentiation. Several studies reported show the involvement of miRNA in cancer. It has been suggested that miRNA profiling has the potential to classify a variety of tumors and possibly predict outcome. MicroRNA can act as an oncogene as well as tumor suppressor gene and this dual function of miRNA can be utilized as a therapeutic tool. The oncogenic character of miRNA can be silenced through various RNA interference-type strategies. The involvement of miRNA in the tumorogenesis processes makes them an important therapeutic tool and a novel biomarker. In this review, we have highlighted the role of miRNA in hematological malignancies and its utility in targeted therapy.