MicroRNA Modulation in Multiple Myeloma
Summary
MicroRNAs are short, non-coding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression by binding to messenger RNAs and inhibiting their translation or promoting their degradation. In multiple myeloma, a malignancy of plasma cells in the bone marrow, dysregulated microRNA expression underlies key processes such as proliferation, survival, drug resistance and bone marrow niche interactions. Certain microRNAs act as oncogenes, promoting tumour growth and evasion of apoptosis, while others function as tumour suppressors, restraining malignant progression. Modulation of these microRNAs—either through synthetic mimics to restore tumour-suppressive activity or inhibitors to silence oncomiRs—has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy. In parallel, cell-associated and circulating microRNA signatures are being explored as minimally invasive biomarkers for early diagnosis, risk stratification and monitoring of treatment response. Technological advances in microRNA profiling and targeted delivery systems have accelerated preclinical development, paving the way for personalised approaches that complement conventional proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulatory drugs and monoclonal antibodies. The global significance of this research lies in its potential to overcome refractory disease, reduce off-target toxicity and improve long-term outcomes for patients worldwide.
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MicroRNA Modulation in Multiple Myeloma publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in microrna modulation in multiple myeloma across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
MicroRNA: A small non-coding RNA (19–25 nucleotides) that regulates gene expression post-transcriptionally.
OncomiR: A microRNA whose overexpression promotes tumour growth and survival.
Tumour suppressor microRNA: A microRNA that inhibits oncogenic pathways and restrains cell proliferation.
CD138+ plasma cells: Bone marrow plasma cells expressing the CD138 marker, enriched in multiple myeloma research.
Liquid biopsy: A non-invasive assay detecting tumour-derived molecules, such as microRNAs, in bodily fluids.
References
- miRNA-seq identification and clinical validation of CD138+ and circulating miR-25 in treatment response of multiple myeloma. Journal of Translational Medicine (2023).
- Circulating miR-16 and miR-21 Levels in Multiple Myeloma: Prognostic Significance of Survival and Response to Lenalidomide Treatment. International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2024).
- The exploration of quantum dot-molecular beacon based MoS2 fluorescence probing for myeloma-related Mirnas detection. Bioactive Materials (2022).
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