Unlocking the Potential of MicroRNA Genetics

A Unique Class of Genetic Variants

Tumor-specific biomarkers like HER2, EGFR, and BRCA are used in specific cancer types to guide cancer treatment decisions. However, these markers are limited in their ability to predict differences in how individual patients will respond to these targeted treatments, nor can they predict what side effects patients may experience.

At MiraDx, we focus on a unique class of patient-specific inherited biomarkers, SNPs within microRNA pathways (mirSNPs), to predict both treatment efficacy and the risk of adverse side effects for cancer patients.

How MicroRNAs Affect Cancer Treatment Response

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) were the first example of non-coding RNAs discovered. They are small RNAs that regulate cellular signaling through direct effects on mRNA stability. These molecules are integral to regulating various cellular processes, including DNA repair, stress response, cell cycle regulation, and apoptosis. Additionally, miRNAs manage system-wide stress responses through circulation in membrane-derived vesicles, lipoproteins, and ribonucleoprotein complexes. Alterations of miRNA circuitry through variations within their promoter, coding, or binding regions (known as mirSNPs) can affect how the body responds to cancer therapies.

Using mirSNPs to Predict Treatment Toxicity and Response

Our research has pinpointed specific combinations of mirSNPs as promising biomarkers for predicting cancer treatment toxicity. In contrast to clinical or treatment factors, these biomarkers are inherited genetic variations in individuals that drive atypical responses to therapies, including radiation. For example, our PROSTOX diagnostic panel of mirSNPs identifies prostate cancer patients at risk for late-onset toxicity from radiation therapy. By assessing specific combinations of these mirSNPs, PROSTOX can help determine which radiation regimen will be best tolerated, thus reducing the risk of radiation therapy side effects by enabling patient and physician choice.

The Future of miRNA-Based Approaches in Cancer Treatment

Ongoing research at MiraDx is focused on advancing personalized genetic testing to provide clinicians with more reliable and actionable data, enabling the development of safer and more effective treatment strategies for individual patients. This research is uncovering genetic signatures associated with the risk of toxicity from radiation therapy, as well as those linked to other cancer treatments, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors. As our understanding of miRNA variants deepens, their expanding role as genetic biomarkers has the potential to revolutionize cancer care. This innovation promises to pave the way for personalized therapies that not only maximize treatment effectiveness but also minimize risks.

Our Tests

IN EARLY ACCESS

PROSTOX

Helps physicians identify the risk of late radiation toxicities to better tailor treatment for their prostate cancer patients.

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In Research

PREVIOTOX

Helps physicians identify the risk of adverse events to immune checkpoint inhibitors.

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AVAILABLE

KRAS-VARIANT

Helps guide cancer prevention and treatment strategies.

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