About this Research Topic
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are pivotal non-coding RNA molecules that play a crucial role in post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression, influencing a wide array of physiological processes such as cell differentiation, development, metabolism, and homeostasis. They have emerged as significant biomarkers and indicators of therapeutic responses in various diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and cardiovascular diseases. Unlike traditional intracellular roles, miRNAs are also secreted and delivered to other cells, acting as bioactive molecules that facilitate intercellular communication through extracellular vesicles (EVs) and other carriers like lipids and proteins. This secretion and delivery mechanism is instrumental in processes such as tumor stroma recruitment, invasiveness, and metastasis. Despite the promising applications of miRNAs in diagnostics, prognostics, therapeutics, and regenerative medicine, there remain numerous challenges and unanswered questions regarding the precise mechanisms and regulation of miRNA secretion and delivery. Current studies are exploring the development of efficient, stable, and safe delivery systems for miRNA-based therapies, with nanoparticles showing potential as carriers that protect miRNAs from degradation and enhance their stability and bioavailability.
This research topic aims to delve into the intricate mechanisms and applications of miRNA secretion and delivery. The primary objectives include understanding the molecular pathways that govern miRNA secretion and uptake, identifying miRNAs as biomarkers or therapeutic substrates, and exploring the functional roles of miRNA transfer in various pathophysiological conditions. Additionally, the research seeks to design and optimize nanoparticle delivery systems for miRNA-based therapies and assess their efficacy and safety in preclinical and clinical settings.
To gather further insights into the mechanisms and applications of miRNA secretion and delivery, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
• The molecular mechanisms and pathways resulting in miRNA variances to drive development and progression of diseases.
• The molecular mechanisms and pathways orchestrating miRNA secretion and uptake by EVs or other carriers.
• The identification and characterization of miRNAs as biomarkers or therapeutic substrates for various diseases.
• The functional roles and implications of miRNA transfer in pathophysiological conditions.
• The design and optimization of nanoparticle delivery systems for miRNA-based therapies.
• The assessment and validation of the efficacy and safety of miRNA delivery in preclinical and clinical studies.
We hope that this Special Issue will provide a comprehensive and updated overview of the mechanisms and applications of miRNA secretion and delivery, and stimulate further research and innovation in this exciting and rapidly evolving field.
This research topic aims to delve into the intricate mechanisms and applications of miRNA secretion and delivery. The primary objectives include understanding the molecular pathways that govern miRNA secretion and uptake, identifying miRNAs as biomarkers or therapeutic substrates, and exploring the functional roles of miRNA transfer in various pathophysiological conditions. Additionally, the research seeks to design and optimize nanoparticle delivery systems for miRNA-based therapies and assess their efficacy and safety in preclinical and clinical settings.
To gather further insights into the mechanisms and applications of miRNA secretion and delivery, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
• The molecular mechanisms and pathways resulting in miRNA variances to drive development and progression of diseases.
• The molecular mechanisms and pathways orchestrating miRNA secretion and uptake by EVs or other carriers.
• The identification and characterization of miRNAs as biomarkers or therapeutic substrates for various diseases.
• The functional roles and implications of miRNA transfer in pathophysiological conditions.
• The design and optimization of nanoparticle delivery systems for miRNA-based therapies.
• The assessment and validation of the efficacy and safety of miRNA delivery in preclinical and clinical studies.
We hope that this Special Issue will provide a comprehensive and updated overview of the mechanisms and applications of miRNA secretion and delivery, and stimulate further research and innovation in this exciting and rapidly evolving field.
Keywords: MicroRNAs, miRNAs, non-coding RNA, post-transcriptional regulators, gene expression, miRNA secretion, miRNA uptake and cell metabolism
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
