Scientists explore MicroRNA-Based strategy against lung cancer

A study published in the journal FASEB BioAdvances has identified a potential approach for slowing lung cancer growth by activating two naturally occurring molecules in the body.

Researchers examined non-small cell lung cancer and the effects of two natural molecules, microRNA-15a and microRNA-16. They found that restoring the balance of these molecules inside cells led to a significant reduction in the production of proteins that fuel the rapid growth of tumors.

These small molecules act as regulators of gene activity, helping cells control essential processes such as growth and division.

Following the discovery, the researchers began developing a new technique based on specialized viral vectors designed to deliver the molecules directly into tumor cells. The approach could potentially improve the effectiveness of future cancer treatments by targeting tumor cells more precisely.

The researchers stressed, however, that the findings do not represent an independent treatment for lung cancer. The experiments were conducted only in cellular models, and further research is needed to confirm the safety and effectiveness of the approach before human trials can begin.

Separately, a large-scale medical study based on data from the UK Biobank found that people who regularly followed a Mediterranean-style diet rich in whole grains, vegetables and red meat had a 34% lower risk of developing lung cancer than others. Their risk of dying from the disease was also 39% lower.