Biomarkers of canine mammary gland tumors: intracellular, free and exosomal microRNAs
| Identifier | 1/0236/23 |
|---|---|
| Funding scheme | Scientific grant agency (Ministry of education, science, research and sport of the Slovak Republic) |
| Principal investigator at UVLF | Almášiová Viera, doc. MVDr., PhD. |
| Project duration | 01.01.2023 – 31.12.2026 |
Canine mammary gland tumors (CMTs) are the most common type of cancer in bitches with limited therapy options. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are an attractive group of biomarkers for early diagnosis of CMTs. Together with intracellular and free miRNAs in biofluids, part of the miRNA is present in exosomes (exo-miRNAs) released from cells. The main goal of the project is to identify miRNAs as biomarkers with diagnostic potential for CMTs. Intracellular miRNAs, free miRNAs and exo-miRNAs will be analyzed. For this purpose, we will use mammary gland tissues (in situ) and biofluids - blood and urine (ex situ). We will define the optimal biofluid for the diagnosis of CMTs. The specificity of miRNA biomarkers for CMTs will be tested by a personalized strategy by comparing the changes in miRNA expression levels before and after therapy. Our research will hand the detection of miRNA biomarkers for early diagnosis of CMTs in clinical practice, which could increase the chances of survival of bitches suffering from this disease.