Description:
Reference #: 01158
The University of South Carolina is offering licensing opportunities for a specific micro RNA (miR-489) as a new diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in breast cancer.
Background:
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer, and has a high rate of mortality in women. Despite aggressive clinical treatment including surgical resection, radiation, and chemotherapy, tumor recurrence is essentially universal. Breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease with several subtypes (Basal, HER2, Luminal A, Luminal B, and Normal-like subtypes) identified by unique molecular signatures. It is well documented that overexpression of HER2 promotes aggressive tumor phenotypes, increases metastasis, and decreases overall survival of patients.
Invention Description:
miR-489’s expression status in breast cancer is associated with clinical parameters and may be used to guide selection of treatments. Data indicates that the miR-489 acts as a tumor suppressor by (at least partially) targeting HER2, and represents a new prognostic biomarker and potential therapeutic target in breast cancer.
Potential Applications:
•Tumor suppression in breast cancer
•Targeted cancer treatment
Advantages and Benefits:
miR-489 is a new biomarker that can used independently or in combination with other existing biomarkers to more precisely diagnose or treat breast cancer.