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Updated: Feb 1, 2026

RNA Pull-down Procedure to Identify RNA Targets of a Long Non-coding RNA
Published on: April 10, 2018
The potential of BRAF-associated non-coding RNA as a therapeutic target in melanoma
Luigi Fattore1, Rita Mancini2, Paolo Antonio Ascierto3
1a IRCCS , Regina Elena National Cancer Institute , Rome , Italy.
Introduction:
The advent of targeted therapies and immune checkpoints inhibitors has enhanced the treatment of metastatic melanomas. Despite striking improvements of patients' survival, drug resistance continues to limit the efficacy of such treatments. Genetic and nongenetic/adaptive mechanisms of resistance could be involved; in the latter mechanism, noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are emerging as key players. Areas covered: This article outlines the current knowledge of ncRNA involvement in BRAF-mutant melanomas and the development of resistance to targeted/immunotherapies. We also discuss how ncRNAs can be exploited for the development of therapeutic and diagnostic approaches. Expert opinion: ncRNAs can be envisaged as powerful diagnostics and therapeutics. Despite progress in our knowledge about their deregulation in cancer, it is still difficult to derive universal and robust ncRNAs unique signatures of malignancy for diagnostic purposes, which need validation in large cohort of patients. Also, ncRNA specific targeting to melanoma cells in vivo requires the development of improved systemic delivery tools. In this regard, the development of stable nanodelivery particles seems to offer renewed hope for success in the clinic.
Insights
Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are key players in melanoma drug resistance. Targeting these ncRNAs offers potential for new melanoma therapies and diagnostics, with nanodelivery systems showing promise.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Metastatic melanoma treatment has advanced with targeted therapies and immune checkpoint inhibitors.
- Drug resistance remains a significant challenge, limiting treatment efficacy.
- Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are increasingly recognized as critical in adaptive resistance mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of ncRNAs in BRAF-mutant melanoma resistance to targeted and immunotherapies.
- To explore the potential of ncRNAs as therapeutic and diagnostic targets in melanoma.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current knowledge on ncRNA involvement in melanoma resistance.
- Discussion of therapeutic strategies and diagnostic applications of ncRNAs.
- Analysis of challenges and future directions in ncRNA-based melanoma treatment.
Main Results:
- ncRNAs play a crucial role in the development of resistance to melanoma therapies.
- ncRNAs show potential as biomarkers for melanoma diagnosis and as therapeutic targets.
Conclusions:
- ncRNAs represent promising tools for both diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in melanoma.
- Further research is needed to validate ncRNA signatures and improve in vivo delivery systems, such as nanodelivery particles.
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