The role of non-coding RNAs in pleural mesothelioma

Translational Oncology 2025 September 29 [Link]

Giulia Tonnini, Giulia Di Mauro, Maria Letizia Tramarin, Anna Meneghetti, Ilaria Bononi, Chiara Mazziotta, John Charles Rotondo, Elisa Mazzoni, Maria Rosa Iaquinta, Elisabetta Trabetti, Cristina Bombieri, Monica De Mattei, Mauro Tognon, Fernanda Martini

Abstract

Background: Pleural mesothelioma (PM) is a rare and highly aggressive tumor, primarily caused by asbestos exposure. Its long latency period and late-stage diagnosis severely limit therapeutic options.

Aim: Recent evidence suggests that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs)-including microRNAs (miRNAs), long ncRNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs)-play key roles in PM biology. This review aims to synthesize current knowledge on ncRNA dysregulation in PM and explore their diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic potential.

Scope: We summarize studies addressing the expression and function of ncRNAs in tumors and in circulating biofluids of PM patients. Particular attention is given to how ncRNAs regulate proliferation, apoptosis, and migration, and how competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks shape gene regulation in PM.

Novelty and conclusion: Unlike previous reviews, this work integrates findings across different classes of ncRNAs and their interactions, highlighting the emerging concept of ceRNA networks in PM. By bridging molecular mechanisms with potential clinical applications, we provide an updated and comprehensive framework that may inform future strategies for diagnosis, prognosis, and targeted therapy in PM.