# Investigation of the Correlation Between Selected miRNAs, Proinflammatory Cytokines, and Serum Trace Elements in Bladder Cancer Development and Progression

## TL;DR

This study explores how certain miRNAs, cytokines, and trace elements in the blood are linked to bladder cancer development and progression.

## Contribution

The study identifies specific miRNA and cytokine correlations with trace elements in bladder cancer patients.

## Key findings

- miRNA-21 and miRNA-155 levels were significantly higher in bladder cancer patients.
- miRNA-34a levels were significantly lower in bladder cancer patients.
- Copper levels and the copper-to-zinc ratio were elevated in bladder cancer patients.

## Abstract

In our study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between miRNA-21, miRNA-155, miRNA-34a, IL-6, TGF-β, and TNF-α expression levels and serum trace element levels in the development and progression of bladder cancer. RT-PCR was used to establish miRNA-21, miRNA-155, and miRNA-34a expression levels while serum IL-6, TGF-β, and TNF-α levels were determined using the ELISA and measured with an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. In the patient group, miRNA-21 and miRNA-155 expression levels were significantly higher compared with the healthy control group (p < 0.001). Furthermore, in the patient group, miRNA-34a expression was significantly lower compared with the control group (p < 0.001). IL-6, TNF-α, TGF-β, copper levels, and the copper to zinc ratio were significantly higher in the patient group (p < 0.001). Serum iron and zinc levels in the patient group were significantly lower compared with the control group (p < 0.001). There was a significant positive correlation between miRNA-155 and IL-6 and TNF-α (r = 0.279, p = 0.015*; r = 0.325**, p = 0.004). A significant positive correlation was detected between miRNA-34a and IL-6 and TGF-β (r = 0.294*, p = 0.010; r = 0.447**, p < 0.001). By evaluating these important biomarkers together, it might be possible to implement clinical applications for bladder cancer treatment and develop individual therapeutic strategies.