Serum microRNAs as a novel class of biomarkers: a comprehensive review of the literature

Recently, expression patterns of microRNAs in body fluids underscored their potential as noninvasive biomarkers for various diseases. Here we summarize the current works describing microRNAs in blood cells or serum as biomarkers and the applied methodologies of small RNA purification and detection. Future challenges and the required research relating to optimization of working with microRNAs in serum will also be discussed.