Ambion and Rosetta Genomics collaborate over microRNA molecules

The agreement enables Ambion to adapt its microRNA platforms to detect, quantify, and functionally characterize microRNA sequences discovered by Rosetta. The resulting products will facilitate basic and applied microRNA research initiatives by academic and industrial scientists worldwide.

MicroRNA molecules are a recently discovered class of small RNA molecules that are critical in the development and life cycle of humans, animals, and plants. Recent evidence indicates that microRNAs play a critical role in the development of cancer and certain viral infections.

There is a growing body of evidence that microRNAs appear in different concentrations in healthy cells versus diseased cells. Thus, measuring and altering the amount of microRNAs in cells could be a promising tool in diagnosis and treatment for a range of diseases.

“MicroRNAs appear to play a critical role in gene expression and regulation, and are, therefore, likely to play a pivotal role in both the diagnosis and treatment of many diseases. Our collaboration with Ambion will make it possible to apply Rosetta’s technology and microRNA database to research efforts that will have a significant impact on human health in the years ahead,” said Amir Avniel, president of Rosetta Genomics.