MicroRNAs in Bone and Soft Tissue Sarcomas and Their Value as Biomarkers

Abstract Bone and soft tissue sarcomas are malignant neoplasms that are histologically and genetically heterogeneous, and various subtypes of them have been identified. Evidence of microRNA (miRNA) dysregulation in bone and soft tissue sarcomas has been recently described. miRNA dysregulation that is associated with genetic abnormalities unique to the specific subtypes of sarcomas, functionally important, or correlated with clinical prognosis has been gradually identified. Furthermore, the discovery of circulating miRNAs in patient blood has accelerated interest in their potential to transform clinical applications. Considering the lack of useful bone and soft tissue sarcoma biomarkers, the discovery of miRNA dysregulation may provide a diagnostic method that can be used at early disease stages to detect tumors, predict tumor response to chemotherapy, or identify prognoses. Such interventions would address some of the most important challenges in sarcoma management. In this review, we summarize the emerging evidence of miRNA dysregulation in bone and soft tissue sarcomas and discuss their potential as novel biomarkers and therapeutics.