Circulating MicroRNAs in cancer
Date
2016-11-09Author
O’Brien, Killian P.
Ramphul, Eimear
Howard, Linda
Gallagher, William M.
Malone, Carmel
Kerin, Michael J.
Dwyer, Róisín M.
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Recommended Citation
O’Brien K.P. et al. (2017) Circulating MicroRNAs in Cancer. In: Rani S. (eds) MicroRNA Profiling. Methods in Molecular Biology, vol 1509. Humana Press, New York, NY
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Abstract
It is believed that microRNAs have potential as circulating biomarkers of disease, however successful clinical implementation remains a challenge. This chapter highlights broad variations in approaches to microRNA analysis where whole blood, serum and plasma have each been employed as viable sources. Further discrepancies in approaches are seen in endogenous controls and extraction methods utilised. This has resulted in contradictory publications, even when the same microRNA is targeted in the same disease setting.
Analysis of blood samples highlighted the impact of both collection method and storage, on the microRNA profile. Analysis of a panel of microRNAs across whole blood, serum and plasma originating from the same individual emphasised the impact of starting material on microRNA profile. This is a highly topical field of research with immense potential for translation into the clinical setting. Standardisation of sample harvesting, processing and analysis will be key to this translation. Methods of sample harvesting, preservation and analysis are outlined, with important mitigating factors highlighted.