Role of microRNAs in lymphoid biology and disease

Purpose of review This review provides a state-of-the-art knowledge on the implications of microRNA (miRNA) dysregulation in lymphoid malignancies. Recent findings Several new studies have broadened our understanding of how aberrations of the miRNome contribute to the development of a malignant lymphoid phenotype. Recently, a new pathogenetic model involving miRNAs and protein coding genes (such as TP53 and ZAP-70) has been identified and explains the prognostic implications of the most recurrent chromosomal abnormalities in human B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Moreover, new recent studies have addressed the role of miRNAs in human lymphomas and acute lymphoblastic leukemias. Summary The recent advances in our understanding of the role of miRNAs in lymphoid malignancies demonstrate that miRNAs can effectively be used as tumoral biomarkers with implications for diagnosis, prognosis, and prediction of response to therapy.