Myc-repressed microRNAs as Novel Anti-cancer Therapeutic Agents

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are 18-24 nucleotide RNA molecules that regulate the stability or translational efficiency of target mRNAs. miRNAs are frequently dysregulated in cancer cells and can act as oncogenes and tumor-suppressors. The proto-oncogene c-MYC encodes a transcription factor that regulates cell proliferation, growth, and apoptosis. Dysregulated expression or function of c-Myc is one of the most common abnormalities in human malignancy. JHU and University of Pennsylvania scientists have identified a set of 15 miRNA transcription units (encoding 22 miRNAs) that are directly repressed by c-Myc. Expression of a subset of these miRNAs in an in vivo model of B cell lymphoma dramatically suppresses tumorigenesis. Description (Set) Proposed Use (Set) Delivery of the miRNAs disclosed in this invention or mimics of these miRNAs represent a promising strategy for cancer therapy.

Inventor(s): Mendell, Joshua

Type of Offer: Licensing



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