MicroRNAs, Cancer and Diet: Facts and New Exciting Perspectives

Background: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs able to regulate gene expression at multiple levels. They are detected in tissues, blood, and other body fluids with high stability and have a recognized role in maintaining of tissue homeostasis. Aberrant expression profile of miRNAs has been observed in several diseases, primarily cancer. As a consequence, the analysis of miRNA signature has recognized diagnostic and prognostic role in human diseases, and the development of miRNA-based therapies is currently under investigation. Recently, emerging but controversial data have revealed the possibility that diet-derived miRNAs might be transferred from food in living organisms to regulate gene expression. Thus, exogenous dietderived miRNAs might substantially contribute to the pool of circulating miRNAs to preserve tissue homeostasis and health status in recipient's organisms, opening new perspectives for diet in heath and disease. Objective: This brief review aims at summarizing data concerning the recognized role of miRNAs as biomarkers, drugs and therapeutic targets in cancer and the detection and the activity of diet-derived miRNAs in both physiological and pathological conditions. Conclusion: MiRNAs have emerged as crucial molecules in anticancer therapies and diet-derived miRNAs might contribute to the pool of circulating miRNAs to preserve, maintain or restore health.