MicroRNAs (
miRNAs) have received much attention in the past decade as potential key epigenomic regulators of
tumors and cancer stem cells (CSCs). The abnormal expression of
miRNAs is responsible for different phenotypes of
gastric cancer stem cells (GCSCs). Some specific
miRNAs could be used as promising
biomarkers and therapeutic targets for the identification of GCSCs. This review summarizes the coding process and biological functions of
miRNAs and demonstrates their role and efficacy in
gastric cancer (GC)
metastasis, drug resistance, and apoptosis, especially in the regulatory mechanism of GCSCs. It shows that the overexpression of onco-
miRNAs and silencing of
tumor-suppressor
miRNAs can play a role in promoting or inhibiting
tumor metastasis, apart from the initial formation of GC. It also discusses the epigenetic regulation and potential clinical applications of
miRNAs as well as the role of CSCs in the pathogenesis of GC. We believe that this review may help in designing novel therapeutic approaches for GC.