MicroRNAs in Renal Cell Carcinoma: Diagnostic Implications of Serum miR-1233 Levels
2011

MicroRNAs in Renal Cell Carcinoma: Diagnostic Implications of Serum miR-1233 Levels

Sample size: 84 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Wulfken Lena M., Moritz Rudolf, Ohlmann Carsten, Holdenrieder Stefan, Jung Volker, Becker Frank, Herrmann Edwin, Walgenbach-Brünagel Gisela, von Ruecker Alexander, Müller Stefan C., Ellinger Jörg

Primary Institution: Universitätsklinikum Bonn

Hypothesis

Circulating microRNAs could serve as diagnostic/prognostic biomarkers for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients.

Conclusion

Circulating miR-1233 is identified as a potential biomarker for RCC patients.

Supporting Evidence

  • MicroRNA levels are distinctly increased in cancer patients.
  • Only a small subset of circulating microRNAs has a tumor-specific origin.
  • Larger-scaled studies are warranted to fully explore the role of circulating microRNAs in RCC.

Takeaway

Doctors are looking at tiny molecules in the blood called microRNAs to help find kidney cancer. One of these, called miR-1233, seems to be a good clue for spotting the disease.

Methodology

The study analyzed serum microRNA levels in RCC patients and healthy controls using quantitative real-time PCR.

Potential Biases

The control group consisted of younger healthy individuals, which could introduce bias.

Limitations

The study had a limited sample size in the initial phases and did not correlate miR-1233 levels with clinical-pathological parameters.

Participant Demographics

The study included 84 RCC patients and 93 healthy controls, with a mix of male and female participants.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.022

Confidence Interval

95%CI 1.57-2.81

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0025787

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