Illustration on the role of miR-20a, STAT3, and IL-6 in OSCC and their potential as diagnostic and therapeutic targets

This graphical abstract outline the dysregulation of miR-20a, STAT3, and IL-6 in OSCC. It demonstrates how low miR-20a levels, coupled with elevated STAT3 and IL-6 expression, drive tumor progression, inflammation, and poor prognosis. The lack of effective biomarkers and limited treatment options underscore the need for precision medicine, with the study proposing personalized strategies based on the molecular findings for improved OSCC management.

To investigate the regulatory role of miR-20a and its basal levels in the STAT3/IL-6 pathway in OSCC tissues, and assessing the concomitant role of miR-20a and STAT3, particularly the miR-20a’s inhibitory role on STAT3 in OSCC progression.

Biopsied specimens were obtained from 63 OSCC individuals. RNA isolation was performed using TRIzol, and cDNA was generated for quantitative real-time PCR to analyze miR-20a, STAT3, and IL-6 levels across paired OSCC and adjacent noncancerous tissues. The protein expression of STAT3 and IL-6 were evaluated using western blot in both normal and OSCC samples. Data were transferred to Microsoft Excel, and statistical analyses, including t -tests and ANOVA ( p < 0.05), were conducted using GraphPad Prism. Clinicopathological correlation between miR-20a, STAT3, and IL-6 expression with tumor grade and histological staging were also explored.

In OSCC tissues, STAT3 and IL-6 mRNA and protein expressions were significantly higher, while miR-20a mRNA expression was significantly lower compared to corresponding nontumorous tissue. Analysis revealed that OSCC tissue samples exhibited marked difference in the levels of miR-20a, STAT3, and IL-6 expression, with very high statistical significance ( p < 0.0001). An inverse relationship was noted: as miR-20a levels decreased with increasing tumor grade and clinical stage, STAT3 and IL-6 expressions varied.

This study shows significant upregulation of STAT3 and IL-6 and downregulation of miR-20a in OSCC tissues samples suggesting miR-20a’s potential as a tumor suppressor.

miR-20a expression inversely correlates with STAT3 and IL-6 levels, declining with tumor progression and playing a key part in regulating the STAT3/IL-6 pathway. The observed characteristics of miR-20a indicate its potential application in OSCC diagnostics and targeted therapeutics. The antagonism between miR-20a and STAT3 emphasizes the value of miR-20a-based replacement and immunotherapy in personalized treatment strategies. Additionally, the expression profiles of miR-20a, STAT3, and IL-6 may function as potential indicators for early diagnosis and therapeutic intervention.