Research Projects

Lung squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) is a major global health concern. While treatment options have increased the 5-year survival rate remains less than 25%. Further research is therefore needed to understand the underlying molecular mechanisms of LSCC development. CT genes are normally epigenetically suppressed in normal tissue, with the exception of testis and placenta. During tumorigenesis, however, these genes can become reactivated and expressed at high levels. CT genes' unique expression pattern makes them potential cancer drivers and attractive targets for therapeutic intervention. The CTdatabase lists over 200 CT genes related to 44 gene families, many being key targets for immunotherapy. However, little attention has been given to CT-specific LncRNAs. Antisense oligo (ASO)-based technology has made it possible to target LncRNAs for therapeutic purposes, making CT-LncRNAs potential candidates as therapeutic targets. Our preliminary analysis revealed that Linc01206 is highly expressed in the testis and LSCC patients. We also showed that Linc01206 is required for cell growth and migration. Additionally, we found that Linc01206 has a strong correlation with SOX2, and its expression decreases after SOX2 knockdown. We propose to investigate Linc01206 in further detail and establish it as a potential therapeutic target for LSCC. Our objectives include Objective 1: To understand the functional role of LINC01206 in LUSC: This objective is designed to validate the LUSC-specific expression pattern and exon structure and using cell-based assays demonstrate the requirement of LINC01206 in LUSC. Using the data from preliminary analysis, we will validate the SOX2 mediated regulation of Linc01206. Objective 2: To elucidate the mechanism of LINC01206 in the regulation of LUSC progression: This objective aims to identify the potential mechanism of LINC01206 function in the progression of LUSC. We will use RNA-seq expression profiling, protein interactome studies, and other cell-based assays to identify potential pathways/proteins regulated by Linc01206. Objective 3: To Understand the biomarker and therapeutic potential of LINC01206: LncRNAs could be a more effective target due to their selective expression. To achieve this goal, we aim to conduct experiments to investigate the potential of LINC01206 as both a biomarker and therapeutic target. Next, we propose to use ASO based methods to study the therapeutic potential of Linc01206 in LSCC. Successful validation of Linc01206 can have several potential benefits in LSCC biology. Firstly, oncogenic Linc01206 can serve as novel biomarkers for early detection, diagnosis, and prognosis of LSCC. Secondly, understanding the biology of Linc01206 can provide insights into the underlying molecular mechanisms of LSCC development and progression. Thirdly, targeting oncogenic Linc01206 with therapeutic interventions such as ASOs can provide a more specific and effective approach to cancer treatment.