Non-coding RNA transcripts and their exosomal counterparts in the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of skin cancers, with a focus on melanoma

Skin malignancies, including melanoma and non-melanoma cancers, are the most common cancers worldwide, with increasing incidence and fatality rates. Malignant melanoma (MM) is a highly aggressive cancer with poor prognosis, and despite various therapies, it remains a serious threat due to factors like tumor recurrence, drug resistance, and lack of effective treatments. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) transcripts have gained attention due to their critical roles in regulating proliferation, angiogenesis, immune regulation, invasion, metastasis, and treatment resistance. Exosomes, biologically active lipid-bilayer extracellular vesicles secreted by various cell types, are also involved in cancer by carrying multiple bioactive molecules, including ncRNAs. Investigating the noncoding components of the transcriptome and their exosomal counterparts opens up the possibility of discovering new therapeutic and diagnostic targets. This review discusses current studies on the involvement of ncRNAs and their exosomal counterparts in the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of human skin cancers, particularly melanoma.