In search of a keyiodide metabolism regulator- a comprehensive study of a single microRNA

Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is the most common endocrine cancer. The mainstay of treatment is surgical resection of the thyroid gland followed by radioiodine I131 ablation. Some patients, however, are resistant to radioiodine treatment. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding RNAs that inhibit gene expression. The expression profile of MiRNAs changes in pathological conditions, including cancer. Previous research has hypothesized that miRNAs may be a key regulator of iodine metabolism and one of the factors that may lead to radioiodine resistance in PTC.

PROJECT PURPOSE and EXPECTED RESULTS: It has been hypothesized that miRNA reduces radioiodine uptake and may be a key regulator of iodine transport and metabolism, and its overexpression may lead to resistance to radioiodine treatment in PTC.

To prove the hypothesis, sequencing of the entire transcriptome of miRNA-overexpressing PTC-derived cell lines will be performed. By comparing the obtained results with control cells, genes whose expression is altered by miRNA will be identified. Importantly, by using the NGS-based approach, we will identify not only direct but also indirect actions. During the analysis, we will focus on genes related to iodine metabolism.

Study results will contribute to a better understanding of the biology of PTC, and since miRNA-mediated epigenetic changes are potentially reversible, they could lead to new therapies for iodine-resistant PTC in the future.