Exploring the role of non-coding RNAs in retinoblastoma: mechanism of contribution, biomarker potential, therapeutic opportunities, and encountered challenges

Abstract Retinoblastoma (RB) is a primary cancer of the eye that predominantly affects children, although rare adult cases have been reported. This malignancy arises from immature retinal cells and is a major cause of vision loss in the pediatric population. In advanced stages, RB can spread to the brain and other organs. The primary driver of this disease is mutations in the RB1 tumor suppressor gene; however, the full development and advancement of RB necessitate further genetic and epigenetic changes beyond RB1 inactivation. Epigenetic alterations in RB involve various mechanisms, with non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) playing a crucial role in tumor progression. Dysregulation of various ncRNA classes, including microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), has been extensively documented, highlighting their contribution to the complexity and progression of the disease. The present study aims to collect a series of previously published studies exploring the contribution of ncRNAs in RB and their potential application as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, as well as considering them as valuable targets in the treatment of RB. It will also address the challenges encountered during this pathway.