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Updated: Jul 6, 2025
Genome-wide Screen for miRNA Targets Using the MISSION Target ID Library
Published on: April 6, 2012
[Retracted] MicroRNA‑338‑3p functions as tumor suppressor in breast cancer by targeting SOX4
Ying Jin1, Min Zhao2, Qian Xie2
1Department of Ultrasonography, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Nanguan, Changchun 13033, P.R. China.
Abstract:
Following the publication of this paper, it was drawn to the Editors' attention by a concerned reader that the GAPDH control western blotting assay data shown in Figs. 5D and 6B, the cell‑cycle data in Fig. 4A, the cell apoptotic data in Fig. 4B and the Transwell cell invasion assay in Fig. 3B were strikingly similar to data appearing in different form in other articles written by different authors at different research institutes that had either already been published elsewhere prior to the submission of this paper to International Journal of Oncology, or were under consideration for publication at around the same time. In view of the fact that certain of these data had already apparently been published previously, the Editor of International Journal of Oncology has decided that this paper should be retracted from the Journal. The authors were asked for an explanation to account for these concerns, but the Editorial Office did not receive a reply. The Editor apologizes to the readership for any inconvenience caused. [International Journal of Oncology 47: 1594‑1602, 2015; DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2015.3114].
Insights
This paper on cancer research has been retracted due to concerns about duplicated data in western blotting, cell cycle, apoptosis, and invasion assays. The journal retracted the article as the data appeared similar to previously published work.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Biomedical Research
Context:
- Concerns raised by a reader regarding data similarity.
- Potential duplication of scientific data across publications.
Purpose:
- To address allegations of data duplication and plagiarism.
- To maintain scientific integrity and ethical publishing standards.
Summary:
- Retraction of a paper published in International Journal of Oncology due to strikingly similar data in figures related to GAPDH control western blotting, cell-cycle, apoptosis, and Transwell cell invasion assays.
- The data presented in the paper showed significant resemblance to previously published or concurrently submitted articles by different authors.
- The authors did not provide a satisfactory explanation when approached by the editorial office.
Impact:
- Upholding the credibility of scientific publications.
- Ensuring accurate and original research is disseminated.
- Alerting the scientific community to potential data integrity issues.
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