Prognosis-related microRNAs in esophageal cancer.

INTRODUCTION: Despite improvements in detection, surgical resection and adjuvant therapy, the prognosis of esophageal cancer (EC) patients is dismal. A number of microRNAs (miRNAs) are related with the prognosis of EC. AREAS COVERED: This review summarises the recent advances in prognosis-related miRNAs in EC and also analyses the molecular functions that they provide. This study further envisages future developments in the potential clinical applications of these miRNAs. EXPERT OPINION: Altered miRNA expression of cancer tissues is useful for predicting the prognosis of EC patients. Individual circulating miRNAs have the potential to be used as novel biomarkers. Continued basic studies are warranted to gain more mechanistic insights into the functional effect of prognosis-related miRNAs on EC. More clinical trials should be performed to promote the clinical use of prognosis-related miRNAs.