Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Cancer remains one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide, with a growing body of research focusing on understanding its molecular mechanisms to develop effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. MicroRNAs, small non-coding RNA molecules, have emerged as key regulators in cancer development and progression. This thesis aims to explore the role of microRNAs in cancer by investigating their expression patterns, functional significance, and potential as diagnostic and therapeutic targets. Chapter One provides an introduction to the research topic, highlighting the background of the study, the problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, structure of the thesis, and definitions of key terms. Chapter Two presents a comprehensive literature review encompassing ten key aspects related to the role of microRNAs in cancer, including their involvement in tumorigenesis, metastasis, drug resistance, and potential clinical applications. Chapter Three outlines the research methodology employed in this study, detailing the experimental design, sample collection and processing, RNA extraction and quantification techniques, bioinformatics analysis, and statistical methods used to interpret the data. The chapter also discusses the ethical considerations and challenges encountered during the research process. In Chapter Four, the findings of the study are presented and discussed in detail. This includes the identification of specific microRNAs dysregulated in various cancer types, their functional roles in promoting or suppressing tumorigenesis, and their potential as biomarkers for early detection and prognostication. Additionally, the chapter explores the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of microRNAs on cancer pathways and their interactions with other regulatory molecules. Chapter Five provides a conclusion and summary of the thesis, highlighting the key findings, implications for cancer research and clinical practice, and recommendations for future studies. The thesis contributes to the growing body of knowledge on the role of microRNAs in cancer development and progression, emphasizing their potential as novel therapeutic targets and diagnostic tools in the fight against cancer. In conclusion, this thesis offers valuable insights into the intricate interplay between microRNAs and cancer, shedding light on their diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic implications. By unraveling the molecular mechanisms by which microRNAs influence cancer progression, this study paves the way for the development of innovative strategies to combat this complex disease.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Exploring the Role of MicroRNAs in Cancer Development and Progression" aims to delve into the intricate relationship between microRNAs and cancer progression. MicroRNAs are small non-coding RNA molecules that play a crucial role in gene expression regulation, and their dysregulation has been linked to various diseases, including cancer. This research seeks to understand how specific microRNAs are involved in the development and progression of cancer, with a particular focus on their mechanisms of action and potential as diagnostic or therapeutic targets. The study will begin with a comprehensive literature review to provide a solid foundation of existing knowledge on the topic. This will include an overview of microRNA biogenesis, their functions in normal cellular processes, and how their dysregulation contributes to cancer development. The literature review will also highlight key studies that have identified specific microRNAs associated with different types of cancer and their impact on tumor growth, metastasis, and drug resistance. Moving forward, the research methodology will outline the experimental approach that will be undertaken to investigate the role of microRNAs in cancer. This will involve the collection and analysis of biological samples from cancer patients, as well as in vitro and in vivo experiments to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of dysregulated microRNAs on cancer progression. Various techniques such as next-generation sequencing, qRT-PCR, and functional assays will be utilized to characterize the expression patterns and functions of specific microRNAs in cancer cells. The findings obtained from these experiments will be discussed in detail in the subsequent chapter, with a focus on the identification of key microRNAs that are significantly associated with cancer development and progression. The results will be interpreted in the context of existing literature and their potential implications for cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment will be explored. Furthermore, the limitations of the study and areas for future research will be addressed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the research outcomes. In conclusion, this project aims to shed light on the complex interplay between microRNAs and cancer, with the ultimate goal of uncovering novel insights that could lead to the development of innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for cancer patients. By exploring the role of microRNAs in cancer development and progression, this research seeks to contribute to the growing body of knowledge in the field of cancer biology and provide new avenues for improving patient outcomes in the fight against cancer.