Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 30, 2025

Isolation of Small Noncoding RNAs from Human Serum
Published on: June 19, 2014
Stability of circulating microRNAs in serum
Tomas Kupec1, Andreas Bleilevens1, Séverine Iborra1
1Clinic for Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany.
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) show potential as cancer biomarkers. This study found miRNAs are stable in serum, unaffected by food intake, though storage conditions slightly impact specific miRNA levels. Further evaluation is needed for diagnostic use.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
Background:
- Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) are promising biomarkers in oncology.
- Recent studies report variable stability of miRNAs in serum.
- Understanding miRNA stability is crucial for reliable biomarker development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the stability of serum miRNAs.
- To investigate the influence of food intake on miRNA levels.
- To evaluate the impact of sample storage conditions on miRNA expression.
Main Methods:
- Quantified 16 serum miRNAs from 8 healthy volunteers using real-time PCR.
- Analyzed samples under different conditions: fasting vs. post-meal, and short-term vs. 14-day storage at -80°C.
- Utilized Student's t-test to determine significant differences in miRNA expression.
Main Results:
- Serum miRNA levels were not significantly affected by food intake.
- Storage conditions slightly altered miRNA detectability.
- Only miRNA 22-3p showed a significant decrease in expression after prolonged storage (-80°C vs. 4°C).
Conclusions:
- Serum miRNAs are relatively stable for laboratory diagnostics.
- Food intake does not impact miRNA levels.
- Specific miRNAs may require careful handling and evaluation for assay development in oncology biomarker research.
More Related Videos
08:14MicroRNA Based Liquid Biopsy: The Experience of the Plasma miRNA Signature Classifier MSC for Lung Cancer Screening
Published on: October 26, 2017
10:23Absolute Quantification of Plasma MicroRNA Levels in Cynomolgus Monkeys, Using Quantitative Real-time Reverse Transcription PCR
Published on: February 12, 2018
Related Concept Videos
MicroRNAs
RNA Stability