Dual role of miR-155 and exosomal miR-155 in tumor angiogenesis: implications for cancer progression and therapy
Qusay Mohammed Hussain, Ali Fawzi Al-Hussainy, Gaurav Sanghvi, R. Roopashree, Aditya Kashyap, Daniel Alex Anand, Rajashree Panigrahi, Nargiz Shavazi, Sada Ghalib Taher, Mariem Alwan, Mahmood Jasem Jawad, Hiba Mushtaq
Abstract
Tumor angiogenesis facilitates cancer progression by supporting tumor growth and metastasis. MicroRNA-155 (miR-155) plays a pivotal role in regulating angiogenesis through both direct effects on tumor and endothelial cells and indirect modulation via exosomal communication. This review highlights miR-155's pro-angiogenic influence on endothelial cell behavior and tumor microenvironment remodeling. Additionally, exosomal miR-155 enhances intercellular communication, promoting vascularization in several cancers. Emerging therapeutic strategies include miR-155 inhibition using antagomirs, exosome-mediated delivery systems, and modulation of pathways such as JAK2/STAT3 and TGF-β/SMAD2. Targeting miR-155 represents a promising approach to hinder tumor angiogenesis and improve cancer therapy outcomes.