Bioengineered Let-7c Therapy for HCC Treatment

Abstract

Researchers at the University of California, Davis have developed a bioengineered, RNA-based treatment for advanced liver cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Full Description

Currently, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading and increasingly common cause of cancer-related deaths. Although surgical resection helps to improve long-term survival rates for some patients with HCC, it remains an impractical treatment for patients with advanced or late-stage diagnoses. In addition, attempted pharmacological interventions are hindered by the molecular heterogeneity and complex etiology of HCC, often making those interventions ineffective treatment options.

Researchers at the University of California, Davis have developed a new treatment for HCC - using bioengineered RNA molecules to treat advanced liver cancer. This method utilizes biologic let-7c molecules produced and folded into living cells. Unlike conventional let-7c mimics being used clinically now, these molecules better represent higher-order structures, stabilities, bioactivities and safety profiles. In addition, this nano-therapeutic method has proven more effective in controlling tumor progression. It has also resulted in greater tumor reduction and can significantly extend orthotropic HCC survival.

Applications

•         RNA-based therapy for liver cancer

Features/Benefits

•         Established heterologous RNA expression and purification methods
•         Potent inhibitor against HCC cell proliferation
•         High efficacy and safety of let-7c formulation
•         Potent miRNA agent
•         Alleviates HCC tumor burden
•         Improves HCC survival
•         Higher serum stability in vivo
•         Superior modality for in vivo RNA delivery

Patent Status

Patent Pending