Transcriptome Sequencing for Oncology

The transcriptome comprises the entire set of RNA transcripts present in a cell at a specific developmental stage or under particular physiological conditions. RNA, a polymeric molecule, plays crucial roles in various biological processes, including gene coding, decoding, regulation, and expression. RNA molecules encompass messenger RNA (mRNA), long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), circular RNA (circRNA), microRNA (miRNA), transfer RNA (tRNA), and ribosomal RNA (rRNA).
 

Transcriptome Sequencing for Oncology
 

RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) is a vital tool for interpreting the functional elements of the genome and understanding the mechanisms underlying various diseases, particularly cancers. While microarray-based approaches have been used for large-scale, high-throughput RNA studies, such as identifying differentially expressed genes, they are limited by their hybridization-based nature. The advent of massively parallel DNA sequencing technologies has enabled RNA-seq by sequencing complementary DNA (cDNA). This method offers superior resolution and higher reproducibility compared to traditional microarray technologies. RNA-seq allows for a deeper understanding of alternative splicing events, novel genes and transcripts, and fusion transcripts. It also aids in elucidating molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways that control embryonic development. Transcriptome data provide a valuable starting point for researchers investigating the functions of newly discovered genes.