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OHSU # 2414 — MicroRNA inhibitors to enhance radiotherapy efficacy
Summary
A method of enhancing radiotherapy efficacy through microRNA inhibition.
Technology Overview
Almost 50% of cancer patients undergo some form of radiotherapy; however only half of these patients have a significant response to this treatment. Higher doses of radiation can be effective, but often result in damage to nearby healthy organs. One approach to increase radiotherapy sensitivity of the targeted tissue is to enhance the efficacy of lower/normal dose radiation. This is particularly critical for cancers that respond well to radiation, but where toxicity may limit the use of this treatment regimen. Examples include brain tumors, especially in the pediatric setting, as radiation can decrease IQ, as well as in liver and colorectal cancers.
Researchers at OHSU have identified a microRNA (miR) which, when inhibited, surprisingly inhibits tumor cell proliferation and enhances the sensitivity of normal-dose radiation therapy in vivo. The miR can also be used as a biomarker for predicting efficacy of radiation sensitizers/neoadjuvant treatment or to predict the efficacy of radiation therapy. Features of the current method include:
- A miRNA target which can be used as a radiation sensitizer to enhance radiotherapy in cancer tissues.
- Inhibition of identified miRNA reduces tumor cell proliferation and tumor burden in vivo.
- A micro-RNA as a biomarker for predicting efficacy of radiation sensitizers/neoadjuvant treatment or to predict the efficacy of radiation therapy.
Publication
Rana S, et al., “Differential regulation of microRNA-15a by radiation affects angiogenesis and tumor growth via modulation of acid sphingomyelinase.” Sci Rep. 2020; 10: 5581. Link
Licensing Opportunity
This technology is available for exclusive licensing.
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Patents
| Issued | United States | 10,941,403 |
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