Exploring the Role of MicroRNAs in Cancer Development and Progression

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNA molecules that play crucial roles in regulating gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. Dysregulation of miRNAs has been implicated in various diseases, including cancer. This thesis aims to explore the role of miRNAs in cancer development and progression, focusing on how these molecules influence crucial pathways involved in tumorigenesis. The introduction provides an overview of miRNA biogenesis, their functions, and the emerging importance of miRNAs in cancer research. The background of the study delves into the current understanding of cancer biology and the molecular mechanisms underlying cancer development. The problem statement highlights the gaps in knowledge regarding specific miRNAs and their targets in different types of cancer. The objectives of the study include identifying key miRNAs involved in cancer progression, elucidating their downstream targets, and understanding the implications for potential therapeutic interventions. Limitations of the study are discussed, such as the challenges associated with miRNA target prediction and the complexity of miRNA-mediated regulatory networks. The scope of the study focuses on in vitro and in vivo experiments to validate the functional roles of selected miRNAs in cancer models. The significance of the study lies in advancing our knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying cancer pathogenesis, potentially leading to the development of novel diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic strategies. The structure of the thesis is outlined, detailing the chapters and sub-sections that will be covered. Chapter Two presents a comprehensive literature review covering ten key studies that have contributed to the understanding of miRNA dysregulation in cancer. Chapter Three describes the research methodology, including experimental techniques, cell culture models, and bioinformatics tools used for miRNA target prediction. Chapter Four provides an in-depth discussion of the findings, presenting experimental data on the functional roles of selected miRNAs in cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. The implications of these findings for cancer therapy are also discussed. Chapter Five offers a conclusion and summary of the thesis, highlighting the key discoveries, limitations, and future directions for research in this field. Overall, this thesis contributes to our understanding of the complex interplay between miRNAs and cancer progression, offering new insights that may pave the way for innovative therapeutic approaches in oncology.