Advancing GCT Management: A Review of miR-371a-3p and Other miRNAs in Comparison to Traditional Serum Tumor Markers

Simple Summary The diagnosis and management of testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) currently relies on the use of unreliable biomarkers-conventional serum tumor markers (STMs). Variable levels of elevation in serum samples among patients and cancer types make the use of conventional STMs unfavorable for dependable diagnosis and clinical management of TGCTs. This review of recent studies suggests germ cell tumor associated miRNAs, such as miR-371a-3p, can be utilized as not only a reliable but cost-effective and convenient blood-based biomarker. However, before widespread clinical implementation, the development of a protocol for sample collection, analysis, and interpretation is necessary to prevent overtreatment and guide the management of patients.Abstract MicroRNAs, short non-protein coding RNAs, are overexpressed in GCTs. Circulating levels of germ cell tumor (GCT)-associated miRNAs, such as miR-371a-3p, can be utilized as efficient and cost-effective alternatives in diagnosing and managing patients presenting with GCTs. This quality of miRNAs has demonstrated favorable performance characteristics as a reliable blood-based biomarker with high diagnostic accuracy compared to current serum tumor markers (STMs), including alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), beta human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-hCG), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). The conventional STMs exhibit limited specificity and sensitivity. Potential clinical implications of miRNAs include impact on de-escalating or intensifying treatment, detecting recurrence at earlier stages, and lessening the necessity of cross-sectional imaging or invasive tissue biopsy for non-teratomatous GCTs. Here, we also highlight the outstanding issues that must be addressed prior to clinical implementation. Standards for measuring circulating miRNAs and determining ideal cutoff values are essential for integration into current clinical guidelines.