Discovery of New Genetic Markers of Cancer

As scientists’ knowledge of the human genome expands, so does their understanding of how diseases within the body operate, which can then lead to new treatments and cures.

Dr. Rinn and his colleagues have discovered a new class of molecule that may have important implications for understanding and treating cancer.  lincRNAs – large intergenic non-coding RNAs – are unique from other materials in cells, however, their precise function remains unknown.  Dr. Rinn aims to decipher the workings of lincRNAs and proposes – based on his pioneering early research – that they may have a role in tumor formation.  His work could lead to new ways to diagnose and target multiple cancer types.

Dr. Rinn said, "It is truly an honor to be recognized by a scientific organization as storied as the Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation, especially as it appreciates the value in taking big risks for big rewards.  Being granted this Award is like winning the Super Bowl for a young scientist starting a lab!"

Recent Discoveries and Honors:

• October 15, 2009 > Popular Science Magazine's "Brilliant 10"
• September 24, 2009 > New NIH High-Risk Research Awards announced
• June 5, 2009 > lincRNAs featured at recent Biology of Genomes conference
• May 8, 2009 > 2009 Searle Scholars Named

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Project Title: "The functional roles of large intergenic non-coding RNAs in cancer"

Institution: Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center

Sponsor(s) / Mentor(s): n/a

Cancer Type: All cancers

Research Area: Cancer Genetics