SOX10, MITF, and microRNAs: Decoding their interplay in regulating melanoma plasticity
Lai X, Luan C, Zhang Z, Wessely A, Heppt M, Berking C, Vera J (2025)
Publication Language: English
Publication Type: Journal article, Review article
Publication year: 2025
Journal
Book Volume: 157
Pages Range: 1277-1293
Journal Issue: 7
DOI: 10.1002/ijc.35499
Abstract
Recent studies show that the dysregulation of the transcription factor SOX10 is essential for the development and progression of melanoma. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) can regulate the expression of transcription factors at the post-transcriptional level. The interactions between SOX10 and its targeting miRNAs form network motifs such as feedforward and feedback loops. Such motifs can result in nonlinear dynamics in gene expression levels, therefore playing a crucial role in regulating tumor proliferation and metastasis as well as the tumor's responses to therapies. Here, we reviewed and discussed the intricate interplay between SOX10 and miRNAs in melanoma biology including melanogenesis, phenotype switch, and therapy resistance. Additionally, we investigated the gene regulatory interactions in melanoma, identifying crucial network motifs that involve SOX10, MITF, and miRNAs. We also analyzed the expression levels of the components within these motifs. From a control theory perspective, we explained how these dynamics are linked to the phenotypic plasticity of melanoma cells. In summary, we underscored the importance of employing a data-driven network biology approach to elucidate the complex regulatory mechanisms and identify driver network motifs within the melanoma network. This methodology facilitates a deeper understanding of the regulation of SOX10 and MITF by miRNAs in melanoma. The insight gained could potentially contribute to the development of miRNA-based treatments, thereby enhancing the clinical management of this malignancy.
Authors with CRIS profile
Xin Lai
Department of Dermatology
Chunyan Luan
Professur für Tumorimmunologie (Schwerpunkt Systembiologie)
Anja Wessely
Department of Dermatology
Markus Heppt
Department of Dermatology
Carola Berking
Lehrstuhl für Haut- und Geschlechtskrankheiten
Julio Vera González
Professur für Tumorimmunologie (Schwerpunkt Systembiologie)
Involved external institutions
Finland (FI)How to cite
APA:
Lai, X., Luan, C., Zhang, Z., Wessely, A., Heppt, M., Berking, C., & Vera, J. (2025). SOX10, MITF, and microRNAs: Decoding their interplay in regulating melanoma plasticity. International Journal of Cancer, 157(7), 1277-1293. https://doi.org/10.1002/ijc.35499
MLA:
Lai, Xin, et al. "SOX10, MITF, and microRNAs: Decoding their interplay in regulating melanoma plasticity." International Journal of Cancer 157.7 (2025): 1277-1293.
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