Majalah Biomorfologi (Biomorphology Journal)
Vol. 36 No. 1 (2026): MAJALAH BIOMORFOLOGI

Role of miRNA in the Development of Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer (NMSC): A Systematic Review

Muhammad Zaid Imron (Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya)
Willy Sandhika (Department of Anatomic Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya)
Cleodylon Reinard Susanto (Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya)
Lusiani Tjandra (Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Wijaya Kusuma, Surabaya)



Article Info

Publish Date
31 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background: Non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSC), comprising basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC), are the most common skin malignancies worldwide. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), small non-coding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression, have increasingly been recognized for their roles in the pathogenesis and progression of NMSC. Objective: To systematically review the role of miRNAs in the development and progression of NMSC, as well as their potential clinical utility. Materials and Methods: The authors performed a comprehensive literature search in ScienceDirect, PubMed, and Cochrane databases following PRISMA guidelines. The articles were selected using Rayyan.ai based on relevance to PICO. Screening and quality assessment was performed using predefined eligibility criteria. A total of 16 studies met the inclusion criteria. Extracted data included differentially expressed miRNAs, their regulatory pathways, and their potential roles. This study employed descriptive synthesis. p-values or effect sizes were reported as available in the included studies (n = 16). Results: Several miRNAs were consistently reported as dysregulated in NMSC. Upregulated miRNAs included miR-21 and miR-31, while miR-203 was frequently downregulated. These miRNAs affect key oncogenic pathways, leading to alterations in apoptosis, proliferation, and cell cycle regulation. Across the included studies, dysregulated miRNA expression demonstrated significant associations with tumor development, invasiveness, and potential diagnostic or prognostic value (p < 0.05 in multiple studies). Conclusion: MiRNAs play a crucial role in the molecular pathogenesis of NMSC and represent promising biomarkers as well as potential therapeutic targets. Modulating specific miRNAs may offer new avenues for early detection and improved treatment strategies.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

MBIO

Publisher

Subject

Biochemistry, Genetics & Molecular Biology Health Professions Medicine & Pharmacology Neuroscience Public Health

Description

Majalah Biomorfologi publishes articles in the form of original research report, excel-literature review, communication and special case report. The scope of this journal includes Medicine and Health sciences, focusing in basic and applied Anatomy and Histology (i.e., neuroscience, medical and ...