MicroRNAs in Melanocytic Lesions
Author Information
Author(s): Grignol V, Fairchild E T, Zimmerer J M, Lesinski G B, Walker M J, Magro C M, Kacher J E, Karpa V I, Clark J, Nuovo G, Lehman A, Volinia S, Agnese D M, Croce C M, Carson W E III
Primary Institution: The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center
Hypothesis
Characterisation of miR expression in borderline melanocytic proliferations would lead to the identification of a molecular profile that could be used with known prognostic factors to differentiate lesions with high malignant potential.
Conclusion
MicroRNA expression profiles can be used to characterise atypical melanocytic lesions.
Supporting Evidence
- miR-21 and miR-155 were significantly overexpressed within borderline lesions.
- miR-21 was associated with mitotic activity and miR-155 was associated with thickness.
- Positive sentinel lymph node biopsy was associated with increased miR-21 and miR-155 in the primary lesion.
Takeaway
This study found that certain tiny molecules called microRNAs can help doctors tell if skin growths are more likely to be cancerous.
Methodology
The miR expression profile of melanocytic lesions was evaluated by real-time PCR.
Limitations
The study did not perform multivariate analyses as outcome determination was not a primary aim.
Statistical Information
P-Value
P<0.0001
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 1.56, 5.46
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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