In the context of cancer, miRNAs can function as either oncogenes or tumor suppressors. Dysregulation of miRNA expression can lead to abnormal cell growth, metastasis, and resistance to apoptosis, all of which are hallmarks of cancer. Some miRNAs are overexpressed in certain cancers and act as oncogenes by downregulating tumor suppressor genes. Conversely, other miRNAs are underexpressed and fail to inhibit genes that promote tumorigenesis.
