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Malignant tumors are heterogeneous diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell proliferation, invasion, and/or metastasis. In particular, cancer stem cells within these tumors might be responsible for the invasiveness and the property of recurrence of malignancies. It has been reported that matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) could contribute to the development of tumor invasiveness. Remarkably, specific MMPs can drive the malignant phenotype of tumors counting the acquisition of stem cell feature, in which STATs signaling might play an important role. Furthermore, MMPs might be crucial for extra-cellular matrix remodeling in the pathological condition of cancer stem cells. Some immune responses against cancer stem cells in the connection to MMPs and/or TIMPs have been revealed, which might be an important issue in the treatment of aggressive cancers. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as favorable biomarkers owing to their important roles in gene regulation and/or stability. Differential expression patterns of specific miRNA may be associated with different types of tumor. In addition, miRNAs can be detected in various body fluids, proposing easily available specimens for diagnostic purposes in tumor microenvironment. Remarkably, it has been shown that miRNA expression might be also related with the gut microbiota composition. Early detection and accurate monitoring of tumors are critical for effective treatment and/or improved patient outcomes. A better understanding of this mechanism of epigenetics could be of use to bring about innovative tactics for the treatment of malignant tumors.
Nakashima et al. (Fri,) studied this question.