Science Platform
MicroRNA genetics is the field that studies genetic alterations in the regulatory function of microRNAs, as well as altered miRNA levels in tumors that predict tumor subtype or response to therapy. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a recently discovered class of small non-coding RNAs that are negative regulators of gene expression in all organisms. MicroRNAs show distinct expression patterns in different organs, cell development stages, and disease models. Therefore, miRNAs play an important role in regulating gene expression and in oncogenesis.
Some Mira Dx® proprietary material is based on the miRNA-gene interaction. In particular, polymorphisms that disrupts the binding of miRNAs to the 3'UTR region of genes that alter the regulation of the gene. These gain or loss of function mutations are functional and have a causal effect on cancer as well as a causal effect on tumor biology. Since the mutations are germ line these mutations can be tested in blood or saliva.
Other Mira Dx® proprietary material surrounds miRNA expression signatures in tumors that predict tumor origin or tumor response to treatment.
Some Mira Dx® proprietary material is based on the miRNA-gene interaction. In particular, polymorphisms that disrupts the binding of miRNAs to the 3'UTR region of genes that alter the regulation of the gene. These gain or loss of function mutations are functional and have a causal effect on cancer as well as a causal effect on tumor biology. Since the mutations are germ line these mutations can be tested in blood or saliva.
Other Mira Dx® proprietary material surrounds miRNA expression signatures in tumors that predict tumor origin or tumor response to treatment.