MicroRNAs and Melanoma Prevention
Nevus associated microRNAs as mediators of BRAF-induced growth arrest and biomarkers of melanoma progression
This project looks at tiny molecules called microRNAs to understand why some moles stay harmless while others turn into melanoma, helping us find new ways to detect and prevent skin cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Utah State Higher Education System--University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11140298 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many melanomas begin with a specific genetic change (BRAFV600E), but often this change leads to harmless moles instead of cancer. We are exploring the internal processes that keep moles benign, focusing on special small molecules called microRNAs that are different in moles compared to normal skin or melanoma. Our goal is to use this knowledge to create better ways to find melanoma early and potentially stop it from developing. We are also developing a non-invasive test that could screen pigmented skin lesions for these microRNAs before a biopsy is needed.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with moles or pigmented skin lesions, especially those with a history of melanoma or many moles, might be ideal candidates for future related studies.
Not a fit: Patients without pigmented skin lesions or a risk of melanoma would likely not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new non-invasive tests for early melanoma detection and strategies to prevent melanoma from forming.
How similar studies have performed: The researchers have already identified a signature of microRNAs that accurately classifies biopsied pigmented lesions in a pilot study, suggesting promise for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Salt Lake City, United States
- Utah State Higher Education System--University of Utah — Salt Lake City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Judson-Torres, Robert Laird — Utah State Higher Education System--University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Judson-Torres, Robert Laird
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.