[MicroRNA profiles in fine needle biopsy of the thyroid].

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small (20-24 nucleotides), non-coding ribonucleid acids, which regulate gene expression on the post-transcriptional level, thus influencing physiological processes including cellular growth, differentiation and apoptosis. Several miRNAs (e. g. miRNAs 146b, 221 and 222) have been shown to be consistently over-expressed in papillary thyroid carcinoma. The present overview describes and discusses the utilization and problems of miRNA analysis in material from thyroid nodules obtained by fine needle biopsy. Particularly the analysis of defined sets of miRNAs should improve the diagnostic value of this procedure and contribute to a better management of patients with cold thyroid nodules.