Role of microRNAs in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Pathogenesis

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a group of small endogenous non-coding RNAs involved in many cancers and various cellular processes such as cellular growth, DNA methylation, apoptosis, and differentiation. 13q14.3 chromosomal region contains miR-15 and miR-16 and deletion of this region is a commonly reported aberration in Chronic Lymphoblastic Leukemia (CLL), suggesting miRNAs involvement in CLL pathogenesis. MicroRNAs are known as oncogenes and tumor suppressors in CLL which may also serve as markers of onset and progression of the disease. The most prevalent form of leukemia diagnosed in adults in the western world, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, accounts for one-third of all leukemias. CLL is characterized by the presence of B Cell Malignant Clones in secondary lymphoid tissues, peripheral blood and bone marrow. The precise etiology of CLL is remained to be known, however, a number of Chromosomal Abnormalities such as deletions of 13q14.3, 11q and 17p and trisomy 12 have been detected. In this review, we offer our prospect on how miRNAs are involved in the CLL pathogenesis and disease progression. Further understanding of the underlying mechanisms and regulation of CLL pathogenesis has underscored the need for further research regarding their role in this disease.