Prognostic marker for disease progression in HIV-infected women
Reference Number TO 0043
Challenge
Circulating miRNAs have recently been indicated as practicable and promising biomarkers for non-invasive diagnosis in various tumors. However, different levels of cell-free miRNAs have not been found between various stages in epithelial carcinomas as yet.
Technology
In order to develop a marker for prostate cancer 667 miRNAs have been screened in serum samples from patients with metastatic and localized prostate cancer. Various miRNAs were highly abundant and five up-regulated miRNAs were selected for further validation. The studies included serum samples from different prostate cancer risk groups. Most of the selected miRNAs were significantly correlated with adverse risk factors by analyzing different clinico-pathological variables. Overall, miRNA-375 and miRNA-141 expression is enhanced in prostate cancer specimen and their release into the blood is further associated with advanced cancer disease.
Commercial Benefit and Oppertunity
Circulating miRNAs are highly correlated with clinico-pathological endpoints. High levels of circulating miRNA-375 and miRNA-141 have been detected in patients with high-risk prostate cancer. Furthermore, these miRNA are up-regulated in comparison to normal and benign tissue.The technology is available for licensing.
Parties interested in collaborative research and development are highly welcomed.
Developmental Status
Circulating miRNAs offer promise as noninvasive biomarkers for tumor progression in the future. However, the prognostic relevance has to be further corroborated using serial samples after surgery or treatment.
Patent situation
EP and PCT patent applications have been filed.
Relevant Publication
Brase et al. (2010), Int. J. Cancer 2010, published online Apr. 5.
