Non-Coding RNA and Regulation of the Cancer Genome
"We investigated how lncRNAs contribute to the mechanisms of gene expression regulation in cancer cells."
DR. MAITE HUARTE RESEARCHER. NON-CODING RNA AND REGULATION OF THE CANCER GENOME GROUP
In recent years there has been a major change in the conception of genome regulation. We now know that most of the cell's transcripts are generated from "non-conventional" genes that do not encode proteins, and a very significant part of them give rise to long non-coding RNA molecules (lncRNAs). Despite not coding for proteins, lncRNAs regulate genome functions and gene expression, and their alterations are inherent to diseases.
The Cima Non-Coding RNA and Regulation of the Cancer Genome Group focuses its efforts on understanding how lncRNAs influence the regulation, propagation, and expression of the genome of cells, and how their functions are altered in cancer. This will help develop better therapies and diagnostics for this disease.
Our research combines the application of genomics, epigenomics, and molecular biology techniques with the analysis of patient samples.
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Objectives of our research
To deepen the knowledge of the functions of lncRNAs and their molecular mechanisms.
Identify novel lncRNAs and their linkage to cancer.
Contribute to the development of improved cancer therapies and diagnostics based on lncRNAs.
FROM THE LABORATORY TO THE CLINIC
Role of lncRNAs in cancer
Our group has found that lncRNAs have critical functions associated with tumor suppressor or oncogenic genes, such as p53 or MYC, playing a key role in tumor transformation.
We have recently identified a new lncRNA called ALAL-1 that helps lung cancer cells evade the immune system. The blockade of ALAL-1 could drive anti-tumor therapies for these patients.
Meet the research team
Scientific activity of the Long Non-Coding RNAs
and Cancer Regulation Group
Latest scientific publications
- Subcellular Distribution of p53 by the p53-Responsive lncRNA NBAT1 Determines Chemotherapeutic Response in Neuroblastoma Mar 15, 2021 | Magazine: Cancer Research
- A lncRNA-SWI/SNF complex crosstalk controls transcriptional activation at specific promoter regions Feb 18, 2021 | Magazine: Nature Communications
- The DNA damage inducible lncRNA SCAT7 regulates genomic integrity and topoisomerase 1 turnover in lung adenocarcinoma Feb 1, 2021 | Magazine: NAR Cancer
- Analysis of copy number alterations reveals the lncRNA ALAL-1 as a regulator of lung cancer immune evasion Sep 7, 2020 | Magazine: Journal of Cell Biology