Non-coding RNA as Biomarker in Cancer

Dear Colleagues,

Cancer represents one of the main causes of death worldwide. Despite the advancement in diagnostic strategies and therapeutic interventions, this pathology is still responsible for millions of deaths annually, highlighting the need for novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for a better management of tumors. In recent decades, several molecular mechanisms that are responsible for the development of tumors have been clarified; however, the precise pathogenetic role that is played by non-coding RNAs has not yet been elucidated. In this context, non-coding RNAs are emerging as novel promising biomarkers in oncology.

Non-coding RNAs, which were previously considered genomic “dark matter”, are now recognized for their intricate regulatory roles in the cellular processes underlying cancer development, as well as for their potential as promising biomarkers in cancer diagnostics and prognostics. Their dysregulation in various cancer types presents an opportunity for precise and early detection, offering insights into the disease progression and therapeutic responses.

On these bases, this Special Issue aims to delve into the significance of non-coding RNAs, such as microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs. Recent advancements and compelling evidence showcasing the utility of non-coding RNAs as accessible and specific biomarkers will be explored, paving the way for enhanced cancer diagnosis and personalized treatment strategies. This journey into the world of non-coding RNAs promises to unravel novel dimensions in the intricate landscape of cancer biomarker research.

Potential topics will include, but are not limited to the following:

• The role of microRNAs in cancer;
• The role of long non-coding RNAs in cancer;
• Liquid biopsies and circulating non-coding RNAs;
• Non-coding RNAs as diagnostic biomarkers;
• Non-coding RNAs as prognostic biomarkers;
• Non-coding RNAs as therapeutic targets in cancer;
• Epigenetic alterations in cancer and their interplay with ncRNAs;
• Emerging technologies in ncRNA research, such as next-generation sequencing and CRISPR-Cas systems.

Yours faithfully,

Dr. Luca Falzone
Prof. Dr. Daniela Calina
Dr. Giuseppe Gattuso
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Non-Coding RNA is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1800 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

• cancer biomarkers
• non-coding RNAs
• cancer development
• epigenetic alterations
• microRNAs
• long non-coding RNAs
• liquid biopsies
• personalized medicine
• next-generation sequencing