The effects of flavonoid baicalein on miRNA expressions in cancer: a systematic review.

Baicalein from Scutellaria baicalensis influences miRNA expression in various cancers, affecting key signaling pathways (PI3K/AKT, Wnt/β-catenin, mTOR) and processes like tumor growth, apoptosis, and metastasis. miRNAs, as small non-coding RNAs, play crucial roles in the cancer pathogenesis-associated gene regulations. This study is aimed at systematically reviewing the effects of baicalein on miRNA expression in various cancers. A comprehensive systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines to investigate the impact of baicalein on miRNA expression in cancer. Databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were systematically searched using key search terms. Inclusion criteria encompassed studies reporting changes in miRNA expression following baicalein treatment in cancer cell lines and animal models. Data extraction and risk of bias assessment based on SYRCLE's risk of bias tool were performed to ensure methodological rigor and reliability of the findings. Fifteen studies meeting the inclusion criteria were included in the systematic review. Baicalein impacts miRNA expression in cancers like hepatocellular carcinoma, breast, cervical, ovarian, and gastric cancers, suggesting its potential as a multi-cancer therapeutic. Baicalein regulates tumor-related genes (HDAC10, MDM2, Bcl-2/Bax, and Cyclin E1) and signaling molecules (AKT, FOXO3α), affecting cell viability, apoptosis, and cell cycle, indicating targeted therapeutic potential. In vitro and in vivo studies show baicalein inhibits tumor growth, enhances apoptosis, and regulates cell proliferation, supporting its anticancer effects. Baicalein exhibits potential in modulating miRNA expression in cancer, offering avenues for therapeutic intervention. However, methodological rigor in future studies is essential to enhance the reliability and validity of findings. Comprehensive understanding of baicalein's effects on miRNA expression holds promise for developing novel cancer treatment strategies.