MicroRNA-452: a double-edged sword in multiple human cancers

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, noncoding RNAs with important functions in development, cell differentiation, and regulation of cell cycle and apoptosis. MiRNA expression is deregulated in various pathological processes including tumorigenesis and cancer progression through various mechanisms including amplification or deletion of miRNA genes, mutations, and epigenetic silencing and defects in the miRNA biogenesis machinery. Several studies have now shown abnormal miRNA profiles and proved their involvement in the initiation and progression of cancer. Since miR-452 has diverse roles (as suppressor or oncogene) in different cellular processes including epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), proliferation, migration, and invasion, in this review we highlight a brief overview of the biological function and regulatory mechanism of miR-452 and its involvement as a potential biomarker for diagnosis and treatment of various cancer types.