Cómo la terapia génica y los microARN pueden ayudar a combatir el cáncer

Abstract

Breast cancer, especially the triple-negative subtype, continues to represent a major challenge for medicine due to the complexity of its biological mechanisms and the limitations of conventional treatments, which are not always sufficiently specific and may cause significant side effects. Therefore, gene therapy has emerged as a promising alternative by enabling the direct regulation of molecular processes within the cell. Among emerging strategies, microRNA based approaches stand out, as these small molecules regulate gene expression and, when dysregulated, can promote tumor development. One tool to modulate their activity is microRNA sponges, which are designed to sequester oncogenic microRNAs. This article provides an overview of these concepts and their application in triple-negative breast cancer. As an example, the in silico design of a sponge targeting oncomiRs is described, along with its potential advantages, limitations, and future clinical implications.