Grant: Doctoral: Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are a diverse group of cancers commonly found in the digestive tract and lungs. Patients often present with variable symptoms, making it challenging to diagnose NENs until advanced disease has developed. Delayed diagnosis can delay effective treatment and be fatal. microRNAs (miRNAs) are small RNA molecules that switch off gene expression, important in nearly all cellular processes. However, when out of control, miRNAs are involved in diseases such as cancer. In addition, miRNAs are abundant throughout the body, including bodily fluids such as blood and urine. Some miRNAs are also very specific to their tissue of origin or disease stage. Our team recently found one miRNA, miRNA-375, was especially elevated in NEN tissues, and potentially in the plasma of NEN patients. We think miR-375 could be a valuable marker for NEN diagnosis and may reveal the underlying regulatory biology in NEN development. My project will first determine if miR-375 is indeed specific to NEN tissues, then I will develop a miR-375 blood test for NEN diagnosis. Lastly, I will look at the function of miR-375 in NEN development and growth, which may identify new strategies to treat NENs. My work will aid clinicians in diagnosing NENs at an earlier stage and therefore, provide earlier treatment and increase the likelihood of success. Earlier diagnosis will also alleviate some of the psychological and financial strain on patients. Finally, insight into potential therapeutic targets will help scientists and clinicians develop therapies that are targeted and NEN specific.