MiRNAs in extracellular vesicles as biomarkers in plasma of papillary thyroid cancer patients : a proof-of-concept study

Abstract

Cancer diagnoses, including papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), are increasing, and early detection is critical for successful treatment. To help address this, our study focuses on identifying reliable biomarkers—specific molecules indicating the presence of disease—that can be detected through non-invasive methods like liquid biopsies. We examined small RNA molecules, known as microRNAs (miRNAs), found in microparticles called extracellular vesicles (EVs) in blood samples from PTC patients, which are linked to the development of PTC. Our results showed these miRNAs were present at higher levels in PTC patients and returned to normal after surgery, suggesting their potential as reliable indicators of PTC. The use of these biomarkers in EVs could allow easier, less invasive, and more frequent testing compared to current methods, improving early detection and monitoring of thyroid cancer, thus benefiting patients and healthcare systems.