MicroRNA in malignant melanoma

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MicroRNAs as important modulators of gene expression were shown to play a main role in tumor development and progression. Studies of the recent years defined the molecular targets of a subset of the oncomirs in several kind of cancer including malignant melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. In our continued project we aim to follow miRNAs and their targets which were characterized in the previous successful funding period. We revealed miRNAs in defined model systems which are deregulated in melanoma and will now follow these miRNAs in functional assays and by identifying target genes in vitro and in vivo. Our data as well as studies from other groups clearly demonstrated the impact of oncomirs by not only regulating one but a subset of target genes, all having an influence on tumor development or progression. Understanding these regulatory pathways is of main importance as influencing this system could result in an efficient therapeutic application. Especially in melanoma, still lacking therapeutic options for patients without BRAF mutation or after relapse, these new options are highly attractive.