Rapid and sensitive detection of biomarkers of interest in cancerology

MicroRNAs are short non-coding RNA sequences whose expression is deregulated in cancers. In particular, the microRNA miR-21 is a promising biomarker for the diagnosis and monitoring of pancreatic cancer patients. In this work, we use the µLAS microfluidic technology developed by the LAAS-CNRS to concentrate and detect miR-21 in samples of increasing complexity. We demonstrate that this device is robust, very sensitive (in the pM range) and fast (30 sec) for the detection of this microRNA. We validate the µLAS technology in a clinical situation by quantifying miR-21 in pancreatic cancer biopsies. This work is part of the transdisciplinary research dynamics engaged between the LAAS-CNRS and the CRCT for the emergence of innovative technologies in the field of oncology, in particular within the framework of the “Biolican” collaborative platform located at the CRCT.

This work is an essential prerequisite for the implementation of nanodevices as close to the patient as possible for the detection of biomarkers of interest, and represents a first step towards the development of new technological supports in liquid biopsy programmes in oncology.

Key words :

• Biomarkers,
• new devices,
• cancer,
• microRNA

Collaborations and acknowledgements

• LAAS-CNRS,
• Idex Oncodevice programme