Sarcomas are a heterogeneous group of malignant tumors with over 50 different types. Currently very few diagnostic markers exist that distinguish one sarcoma type from another. DNA microarray studies have identified the differentially expressed genes in various sarcomas. Many of these genes may be regulated by a class of small RNAs called microRNAs. MicroRNAs are evolutionarily conserved non-coding regulatory small RNAs that display tissue and stage specific expression. About 700 miRNAs are identified in humans, which make them attractive candidates for developing novel biomarkers.
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