Validation of a plasma extracellular vesicle miRNA (EV-miRNA) diagnostic signature for lung cancer
Research aim
To develop a highly predictive model for detecting lung cancer from a blood test.
Background
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are tiny membranous bubbles released from cells transferring molecular signals (RNA and proteins) between them.
Preliminary evidence indicates presence of cancer-EV content in lung cancer patient fluids with potential in early diagnosis. However, these are still early observations requiring significant validation.
In a Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation-funded pilot project last year, we screened 2087micro RNAs in the blood plasma of 50 lung cancer patients and 47 age/gender matched controls.
Sophisticated statistical analysis shows that a subgroup of them can contribute to a successful prediction model of lung cancer. This result requires validation in an independent set.
We expect to validate a test consisting of 4-8 targets incorporated into a highly predictive model for detecting lung cancer patients from a blood test.
Dr. Liloglou, University of Liverpool
What is the problem to be addressed?
It is clear that early diagnosis of lung cancer is imperative to save lives.
Consequently, a high sensitivity and specificity test is required that can be used easily and acquired in a non-invasive manner, such as blood.
Expected findings and potential impact
We expect to validate a test consisting of 4-8 targets incorporated into a highly predictive model for detecting lung cancer patients from a blood test.
We intend to further develop the resulting blood-based diagnostic assay for clinical use in lung cancer detection.Upon successful outcome, the test will be pushed into a clinical trial, prior to its medical implementation.
Lead researcher: Dr Triantafillos Liloglou | Location: University of Liverpool| Type of research: Early detection