ReviewMicroRNAs in chronic lymphocytic leukemia

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is the most common leukemia in the western world. Recent research, conducted primarily in basic science laboratories, has indicated a role for microRNAs (miRNAs) in the pathogenesis and prognosis of this disease. MiRNAs are small, non-coding, functional RNAs, that mediate post-transcriptional inhibition of messenger RNAs. Because miRNA expression levels in CLL patients differ from that of normal patients, there may be a role for these novel small molecules as biomarkers in this disease.

Research Highlights► Early-stage CLL patients display a highly variable disease course. ► Several predictive markers have been proposed but are unable to predict disease progression. ► MicroRNAs are endogenous non-coding small RNA molecules that regulate gene expression via translational repression or transcript degradation. ► Role of microRNAs in CLL disease pathogenesis and prognosis is reviewed.