The role of MicroRNA molecules and MicroRNA-regulating machinery in the pathogenesis and progression of epithelial ovarian cancer

MicroRNA molecules are small, single-stranded RNA molecules that function to regulate networks of genes. They play important roles in normal female reproductive tract biology, as well as in the pathogenesis and progression of epithelial ovarian cancer. DROSHA, DICER, and Argonaute proteins are components of the microRNA-regulatory machinery and mediate microRNA production and function. This review discusses aberrant expression of microRNA molecules and microRNA-regulating machinery associated with clinical features of epithelial ovarian cancer. Understanding the regulation of microRNA molecule production and function may facilitate the development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to improve the prognosis of women with epithelial ovarian cancer. Additionally, understanding microRNA molecules and microRNA-regulatory machinery associations with clinical features may influence prevention and early detection efforts.