MIR-206 target prediction in breast cancer subtypes by bioinformatics tools

Abstract

Background: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small endogenous non-coding RNAs with fundamental roles in the regulation of protein expression that is involved in the pathogenesis of many cancers including breast cancer. Among them is miR-206, whose role as a tumor suppressor gene has been demonstrated in breast cancer. Consequently, the identification of its putative target in breast cancer is of practical value. Methods: In the present study, we have suggested a new approach for the identification of miR-206 target genes with possible role in breast cancer pathogenesis. We used 15 online tools for the prediction of miR-206 target genes as well as gene expression data produced by DNA microarray technology. Results: By combining these two sets of data, we suggested a list of miR-206 target genes with possible involvement in breast cancer. In addition, we depicted an interaction network including miR-206 and its putative targets. Conclusions: Considering the complexity of miR-206 interactions with several targets, such in silico analyses would considerably lessen the work load of laboratory experiments.