MicroRNA Biomarkers: Pitfalls and Potential

Thirty years ago, the small molecules we now know as microRNAs (miRNAs) would have been regarded as “junk” genetic material. Today, miRNAs have been hailed as promising biomarkers for diseases including cancer, neurological disorders, heart conditions, and infections. Although progress has been made toward characterizing the role of miRNAs in different diseases, there remain challenges in bringing them into clinical use. Researchers continue to explore where miRNAs will make the most impact.