Description

MicroRNA (micro ribonucleic acid molecule, miRNA) misregulation is an outcome of multiple genetic and epigenetic events which may lead to oncogenesis. There are two strategies to counter the disorder, namely using miRNAs as drugs or as drug targets. The latter is the most common one and is mostly used for increasing or decreasing the expression level of one miRNA. However, in most cases, cancer therapy needs correction on expression levels of many miRNAs simultaneously.

Estonian scientists have developed a method for regulating several miRNAs simultaneously, targeting the crucial misregulated miRNAs responsible for a specific cancer or other diseases. This is achieved by expressing a suppressor of RNA silencing, i.e. a protein that interfaces with the RNA silencing machinery producing miRNAs.

The modulation of miRNA levels in human cells carried out by the suppressors is proven by the results of miRNA expression array analysis and miRNA deep sequencing.

The method can also provide therapy for malignant neoplasms.

Innovations and advantages of the offer

The main advantage of the method is its ability to regulate many miRNAs simultaneously. Thus, the method provides means for curing diseases related to regulation of miRNA levels.

Current and Potential Domain of Application

• Cancer treatment
• Therapy for malignant neoplasms
• Cure for diseases related to regulation of miRNA levels

Current Stage of Development

Development phase - Laboratory tested

Collaboration Type

• License Agreement
• Joint further development

Comments

Type of partner sought: Industry, research organisations

Specific area of activity of the partner: Cancer research, cancer treatment

Task to be performed by the partner sought: Application of the method, joint further development

Ref: 12 EE 21B9 3O1F