microRNAs signature in relapse metastasis and de novo metastasis of breast cancer. A systematic review

miRNAs have been widely identified as important players in cancer development and progression. Metastasis in breast cancer can occur as relapse of a treated primary tumour or at the time of diagnosis of the tumour. The aim of this review is to show if both metastasis are different molecular entities characterised by different miRNA signatures that could be studied as specific biomarkers for each entity. For this, we systematically searched the PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases. After searching and reviewing the literature, a total of 30 records were included in this review. Results showed a genetic signature including a total of 5 upregulated miRNAs in metastasis compared with early stages. Of them, miR-23b and miR-200c were exclusively present in relapse metastasis. Finally, we proposed a molecular signature for future studies that can be used as a complementary tool at clinical trials for the diagnosis and characterization of metastasis

Automated summary

miRNAs are important factors in cancer development and progression. This review aims to determine if metastasis in breast cancer is characterized by different miRNA signatures that can serve as specific biomarkers for each entity. After systematic search and review of literature from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, a total of 30 records were included in this review. Results showed a genetic signature with 5 upregulated miRNAs in metastasis compared with early stages, with miR-23b and miR-200c exclusively present in relapse metastasis. A molecular signature for future studies is proposed as a complementary tool for diagnosis and characterization of metastasis in clinical trials.