Cancer treatment targeting non-coding RNA overexpression

Abstract

Provided herein are methods directed to modulating the pro-oncogenic effects of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) through their interactions with specificity protein transcription factors (SpTFs). In one aspect, the disclosure provides a method of inhibiting growth of a cell, such as a transformed or cancer cell, characterized by overexpression of at least one specificity protein (Sp)-regulated ncRNA and expression of at least one Sp transcription factor (SpTF), the method comprising contacting the cell with an effective amount of an SpTF agent. In some embodiments, the ncRNA is a long noncoding RNA (lncRNA). In some embodiments, the ncRNA is a microRNA (miR). Also provided are methods of treating a cell proliferative disease, predicting the response of a subject to SpTF agent-based treatment, and monitoring the efficacy of a SpTF agent-based treatment in a subject.