The Role of Micrornas in Chromium-Induced Lung Carcinogenesis:A Critical Review of Current Evidence Publisher



Talebi Taheri A ; Aschner M ; Tamtaji O R
Source: Redox Biochemistry and Chemistry Published:2026

Abstract

Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) is a known human carcinogen, particularly associated with lung cancer. Its carcinogenic potential is largely attributed to its redox activity, which generates reactive oxygen species and causes DNA damage. microRNAs (miRNAs) can play an intermediary role in this process. Recent studies have documented their epigenetic role in Cr(VI)-induced lung carcinogenesis. This review provides asynopsis of current knowledge of miRNAs regulated by Cr(VI) in lung carcinogenesis and among workers occupationally exposed to Cr(VI). Weshow that Cr(VI)-induced carcinogenesis is mediated by miR-27a/b/Nrf2, miR-21/PDCD4, miR-199a/IL-8, miR-143/IL-8, miR-218/HK2, and miR-218/LDHA signaling.Altogether, this review aims to clarify the epigenetic mechanisms of Cr(VI), paving the way for future research and potential clinical applications. © 2026 Published by Elsevier Ltd. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license. http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/