In Vitro Selection of RNA Aptamers Against CXCL1 to Inhibit Carcinogenesis.

Final Manuscript is available here

CXCL1, chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 1, is a protein that has been found to be a responsible party for tumorigenesis. This particular cytokine has been predominately associated with breast and melanoma cancers. As well, CXCL1 has been linked to cancers such as colon, pancreatic, ovarian and melanoma. As CXCL1 and other chemokines regulation is accelerated, the activation of NF-κB(also widely associated with tumors) is positively correlated. [1]

Figure 1 CXCL1 [2]

Specific Aim 1: To select an RNA aptamer to blockade CXCL1 significantly reducing tumor growth.

As CXCL1 is now known to influence metastasis, research with antibodies has begun for breast cancer. Current literature suggests that a combination of chemotherapy as well as an inhibitor to the tumor growth process could potentially be a more effective way of curing cancer. An aptamer for this task would be more preferable as it would be designed far more specific, and would be less likely trigger an immune response. [3]

Other potential uses for an aptamer selected for CXCL1 include regulations of other cancers as well. CXCL1 in epithelial cells has been associated greatly with aging and melanoma.[4]

Recombinant Human Growth-regulated protein alpha is sold through raybiotech.com for $98.00 per 100µl . The catalog number is RB-01-0002P-1.

[1] Dhawan, P., Richmond, A. Role of CXCL1 in tumorigenesis of melanoma. Journal of Leukocyte Biology. 2002;72:9-18.

[2] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CXCL1

[3] Fulmer, T. SciBX 3(4); doi:10.1038/scibx.2010.105 Published online Jan. 28, 2010

[4] Fimmel,S., Devermann, A. H., Zouboulis, C. Gro-a A potential Marker for Cancer and Aging Silenced by RNA Interference. Ann. N.Y. Acad. Sci. 1119: 176–189 (2007).