miRNA-214: expression, therapeutic and diagnostic potential in cancer.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs that negatively regulate gene expression by binding to the 3' untranslated region of their target mRNAs. Recent work supports a role for miRNAs in the initiation and progression of human cancer. miRNA-214 not only mediates differentiation, senescence, angiogenesis, cell migration and virus replication but also acts as a tumor suppressor gene and oncogene. Increasing evidence indicates that miRNA-214 may serve as a biomarker in some cancer types. The aim of this review is to highlight and clarify the complexity of miRNA-214 activity, emphasizing its significant therapeutic and diagnostic potential.