Elucidation and functional analysis of lncRNA variation and TP53 associated lncRNAs in neuroblastoma

Although long non-coding RNA research has experienced a tremendous boost since the discovery of this class of RNA species, lncRNA activity and functionality are still poorly understood. Our comprehension of cellular regulatory mechanisms and processes is expected to be profoundly impacted by the elucidation of lncRNA functionality and to contribute significantly towards the development of more specific disease therapies. In this context, my postdoctoral research project aims to contribute to this effort using a two-way approach. First, by combining advanced experimental and bioinformatics procedures, lncRNA variation and its effect on lncRNA functionality will be assessed. Putative interaction partners and binding sites will be studied. In a second phase, I aim to identify cancer related lncRNAs in the network surrounding TP53, an important tumor suppressor protein kept inactive by non-mutational mechanisms in neuroblastoma. By revealing lncRNAs important in tumor development and progression, underlying mechanism associated with tumor initiation and immune evasion might ultimately result in the creation of new molecular anti-cancer therapies.