Role of miRNA as Diagnostic The Role of miRNA as Diagnostic Biomarkers of Non-small Cell Lung Cancer through PCR-based Serum AnalysisBiomarkers of NSCLC through PCR-based Serum Analysis: Systematic Review

Abstract

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is often diagnosed at advanced stages despite the use of conventional diagnostic biomarkers. Circulating serum microRNAs (miRNAs) offer promise as sensitive and specific tools for early detection. Following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, a systematic review of diagnostic accuracy studies was conducted across PubMed, ScienceDirect, Cochrane, PLOS ONE, Taylor & Francis, and preprint servers, identifying seven eligible studies involving patients with NSCLC. All used PCR-based methods to detect serum miRNA expression and compared findings with traditional biomarkers, including carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), CYFRA21-1, and squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCCA). 11 miRNAs were evaluated individually (e.g., miR-216b, miR-762) or in panels. Panels demonstrated the highest diagnostic accuracy (up to 0.969 AUC, 89.19% sensitivity, and 98.33% specificity). This review highlights variation in diagnostic performance by miRNA source, detection platform, and clinical context. Circulating miRNAs, particularly in panels, show strong diagnostic potential. Future studies should validate these findings in multi-ethnic, treatment-naïve cohorts using standardized protocols to support clinical implementation.