Grant: Project Grant

MicroRNAs are a type of RNA that can regulate the production of proteins in cells and a number of microRNAs have been implicated in regulating tumor development and progression. We have found that one family of microRNAs known as the miR-200 family can inhibit the growth of mammary tumors and even prevent their development. Using a number of molecular techniques, we will identify the cellular targets of the miR-200 family using transgenic animal models and human and mouse mammary tumor cell lines as well as tumors from breast cancer patients to understand the mechanisms through which the miR-200 family act as anti-cancer agents. We will also test whether the injection of synthetic miR-200 family members can prevent mammary tumor development or inhibit mammary tumor growth. Since microRNAs are normally found in cells, their administration might be less toxic than chemotherapy or radiation therapy.