miRNA Networks in Lung Cancer
Investigate oncogenic and tumor suppressor miRNA networks in lung cancer
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNAs which regulate gene expression through post-transcriptional repression (Ambros, Nat Med, 2008). Delineating miRNA networks can identify new miRNAs and miRNA antagonists for lung cancer treatment.
We will cross-compare human lung adenocarcinoma miRNA expression profiles and cancer genome copy number analyses from TCGA (the Cancer Genome Atlas) to identify candidate miRNAs driving or suppressing tumor formation. We will use tet-on miRNA/shRNA expression system to functionally study miRNAs and their target genes in vivo. Together, these studies will unveil miRNA networks using genetic tools.