The success of RNA-based COVID-19 vaccines has highlighted the great potential of using RNA as a new way to treat or prevent diseases. Some RNA molecules can work like “sponges,” soaking up specific RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) and inhibiting their function. Since some RBPs are essential for cancer cell growth but not normal cells, RNA sponges could serve as selective cancer treatments. However, current RNA therapeutics are linear, which means they quickly get eliminated in the body, limiting their effectiveness. A promising alternative is the use of circular RNAs (circRNAs), which can be longer lasting than linear RNA and may work better as a therapy. In this project, the team will use their expertise in RNA biology and genomics to develop a circRNA platform to target cancer-promoting RBPs, with a focus on breast cancer. If successful, this innovative project could establish a new type of breast cancer fighting medicine, while also offering the potential to be expanded to help treat other types of cancers, improving patient outcomes.
Exploring the potential of circular RNAs as cancer therapeutics
Project leader:
Éric Lécuyer
Sector:
Health
Budget:
400 000,00 $
Start date: 01 January 2026 End date: 31 December 2027