Role of MicroRNAs in the Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Systematic Review

Purpose: MicroRNAs have been recognized as regulators of many biological and pathological processes, and represent candidate molecules for the treatment of diverse cancers. However, their role in Epithelial-to-mesenchymal Transition (EMT), although well studied, has generated many questions, especially in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC). This review aims to clarify the role of microRNAs during EMT in OSCC. Methods: A systematic review was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, Scientific Electronic Library Online, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, and BVS (Biblioteca Virtual emSaúde). Results: A total of 2411 articles were analyzed, out of which 14 were selected based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Various microRNAs were reported in these studies, and the miR-200 family was evaluated in most studies; it has been established that this family of micro RNA induces direct inhibition of molecules in the TGF-β pathway. Conclusion: Given the critical role of microRNAs in EMT, and the subsequent development of metastatic tumors, the inhibition of EMT through microRNAs can offer an important therapeutic strategy for targeting tumor metastasis in OSCC.