Breast cancer is the most common
cancer diagnosed in women. In recent times, survival outcomes have improved dramatically in accordance with our enhanced understanding of the molecular processes driving
breast cancer proliferation and development. Refined surgical approaches, combined with novel and targeted treatment options, have aided the personalisation of
breast cancer patient care. Despite this, some patients will unfortunately succumb to the disease. In recent times, translational research efforts have been focused on identifying novel
biomarkers capable of informing patient outcome;
microRNAs (
miRNAs) are small non-coding molecules, which regulate gene expression at a post-transcriptional level. Aberrant
miRNA expression profiles have been observed in
cancer proliferation and development. The measurement and correlation of
miRNA expression levels with oncological outcomes such as response to current conventional
therapies, and disease recurrence are being investigated. Herein, we outline the clinical utility of
miRNA expression profiles in informing
breast cancer prognosis, predicting response to treatment strategies as well as their potential as therapeutic targets to enhance treatment modalities in the era of precision oncology.