RNA World Hypothesis: RNA at the Nexus of Cancer Evolution, Diagnostics and Therapeutics

In the field of cancer biology, RNA has gained recognition as more than just an intermediary between DNA and protein synthesis; it stands as one of the most dynamic and adaptable molecules within the cellular environment. With roots tracing back to the primordial RNA world, RNA has evolved from a simple ancestral replicator to a complex regulatory powerhouse influencing every aspect of oncogenesis, tumor progression, and therapeutic response. This versatility is illustrated by the diversity of RNA's forms, such as messenger RNAs and a variety of non-coding RNAs, including microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs. Additionally, a continuously expanding portfolio of chemical modifications showcases RNA’s intricate involvement in regulatory networks pivotal to cancer biology.This Research Topic aims to assemble a comprehensive body of work that delves into the multifaceted roles of RNA within evolutionary, mechanistic, and translational frameworks. The focus encompasses investigations unraveling how evolutionary insights into RNA function contribute to our understanding of tumor heterogeneity. Mechanistic research that intricately dissects the roles of coding and non-coding RNAs in cancer pathways is a highlight, alongside groundbreaking strategies for exploring the epitranscriptome and its modifications, such as m6A and pseudouridine. Furthermore, the Research Topic seeks to spotlight translational breakthroughs, particularly those leveraging RNA as biomarkers in liquid biopsies for early cancer detection and monitoring. Innovations in RNA-based therapeutic designs, including siRNAs, antisense oligonucleotides, and mRNA vaccines, are also encouraged for exploration.To gather further insights in understanding RNA's pivotal role in cancer, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:- Evolutionary origins of RNA function and implications for tumor heterogeneity- Mechanistic studies of non-coding RNAs (miRNA, lncRNA, circRNA) in cancer pathways- Epitranscriptomics: mapping and functional interrogation of RNA modifications (e.g., m6A, pseudouridine)- RNA-based biomarkers: liquid biopsy approaches for early detection and disease monitoring- Design and delivery of RNA therapeutics: siRNA, antisense oligonucleotides, mRNA vaccines, and beyond- Computational and multi-omics integration to model RNA regulatory networks in the tumor microenvironment- Case studies of RNA innovations showcasing RNA-driven diagnostic or therapeutic breakthroughsWe also encourage the submission of articles employing computational and multi-omics approaches to enhance our understanding of RNA regulatory networks within the tumor microenvironment, showcasing RNA-driven diagnostic or therapeutic breakthroughs. Through these collaborative efforts, the Research Topic aims to illuminate RNA's central role in cancer research and propel advancements in precision oncology. Topic editors: Sheeba Irshad, Fieke Froeling, Jennie Niroshinie Jeyapalan, Catrin Sian Rutland, Elisa Ledet Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/75337/rna-world-hypothesis-rna-at-the-nexus-of-cancer-evolution-diagnostics-and-therapeutics