Work

MicroRNA-mediated regulation of natural killer cells development, effector functions, and antitumor responses

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Natural killer (NK) cells represent a fundamental aspect of the innate immunity. These cells considered as a vital part of tumor immunosurveillance by directly eliminating cancer cells and releasing cytokines. Their role is closely controlled through the equilibrium between activating and inhibitory signals. MicroRNAs (miRNA), being short non-coding RNAs, involve in controlling the differentiation, maturation, and effector responses of NK cells. Here, we highlight the functions of miRNAs in controlling NK cell lineage commitment, subset differentiation, cytotoxicity, and immune checkpoint expression. Additionally, it explores how tumor-derived factors, such as hypoxia, modulate miRNA expression, thereby impairing NK cell activity within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Additionally, we summarized how manipulating miRNA pathways could improve NK cell-based immunotherapies.

Source: Cancer Cell International

DOI: 10.1186/s12935-025-04078-1

Authors: Kianush Charoghdoozi, Mohammad Javad Balighi, Amir Mohammad Amiri, Sajad Dehnavi, Mahvash Sadeghi

Institutions: Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Immune Cell Function and Interaction

Subfield: Immunology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,190