Highly specific targeting of the TMPRSS2/ERG fusion gene using liposomal nanovectors.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

The TMPRSS2/ERG (T/E) fusion gene is present in half of all prostate cancer tumors. Fusion of the oncogenic ERG gene with the androgen-regulated TMPRSS2 gene promoter results in expression of fusion mRNAs in prostate cancer cells. The junction of theTMPRSS2- and ERG-derived portions of the fusion mRNA constitutes a cancer-specific target in cells containing the T/E fusion gene. Targeting the most common alternatively spliced fusion gene mRNA junctional isoforms in vivo using siRNAs in liposomal nanovectors may potentially be a novel, low-toxicity treatment for prostate cancer.

Experimental design

We designed and optimized siRNAs targeting the two most common T/E fusion gene mRNA junctional isoforms (type III or type VI). Specificity of siRNAs was assessed by transien

SUBMITTER: Shao L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3525716 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature