Role of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in oral cancer pathogenesis and their potential as therapeutic targets

Several studies have shown the role of circRNAs in tumor cell proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and recurrence, suggesting potential as a biological marker and target for therapy for preventing and therapeutic management of cancer. This systematic review summarizes the role of circRNA on OC signaling networks and reveals potential oral cancer (OC) treatment targets. The systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines for study selection, synthesis, and dissemination. PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Sciences were searched for evidence-based studies on circRNA on OC from January 2015 to December 2024. Two experts performed an unbiased inquiry and specified screening. The Cochrane Collaboration tool assessed the risk of bias (RoB) using ROBINS-I, which classifies bias as low, moderate, serious, critical, or no information. The systematic review comprised 19 papers. High-throughput sequencing techniques or circRNA microarray studies for OSCC revealed numerous differentially expressed circRNAs across OSCC tissues and neighboring tissues. Subsequently, a series of studies demonstrated that certain circRNAs serve pivotal roles in the genesis and progression of OC. Many circRNAs are essential regulators of pivotal pathways in oral malignancies. CircRNAs work by competitively binding or "sponging" miRs through the development of persistent complementary contacts, RNA-binding protein sponges, protein/peptide translators, and regulators of gene splicing and transcription.