Exploring the Role of MicroRNAs in Cancer Pathogenesis

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that play crucial roles in regulating gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. In recent years, there has been increasing interest in understanding the involvement of miRNAs in cancer pathogenesis. This thesis aims to explore the role of miRNAs in cancer development, progression, and treatment. The introductory chapter provides an overview of miRNAs, their biogenesis, and functions in gene regulation. The background of the study highlights the significance of miRNAs in cancer biology and the potential implications for cancer therapy. The problem statement emphasizes the gaps in knowledge regarding specific miRNAs involved in different types of cancer. The objectives of the study are to identify key miRNAs associated with cancer pathogenesis and to elucidate their functional roles. The limitations and scope of the study are also outlined. Chapter two presents a comprehensive literature review covering ten key topics related to miRNAs and cancer, including the dysregulation of miRNAs in different cancer types, the mechanisms of miRNA-mediated gene regulation, and the clinical implications of miRNAs as diagnostic and prognostic markers in cancer. Chapter three details the research methodology, including the selection of cancer cell lines and patient samples, miRNA profiling techniques, bioinformatics analysis, and functional assays to investigate the impact of specific miRNAs on cancer cell behavior. The chapter also describes the statistical methods used for data analysis and interpretation. Chapter four presents the findings of the study, highlighting the identification of dysregulated miRNAs in various cancer types, their target genes, and the functional consequences of altered miRNA expression on cancer cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. The discussion delves into the implications of these findings for understanding cancer pathogenesis and developing miRNA-based therapeutic strategies. In the conclusion and summary chapter, the key findings of the study are recapitulated, and their implications for cancer research and therapy are discussed. The limitations of the study are acknowledged, and future directions for research in the field of miRNAs and cancer are proposed. Overall, this thesis contributes to the growing body of knowledge on the role of miRNAs in cancer pathogenesis and highlights the potential of miRNAs as promising targets for cancer diagnosis and treatment. Word Count 292