P35. Fibroblast growth factor signals and their connection to micrornas in malignant pleural mesothelioma

Background Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma (MPM) is an aggressive malignancy characterized by increasing incidence, poor outcome and limited therapeutic options due to frequent resistance to chemo- and radiotherapy. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are highly conserved RNAs which control gene expression via translational repression of mRNA. Previous data show that the miR-15/16 family has tumor suppressor function and is downregulated in MPM. Fibroblast Growth Factors (FGFs) and their Receptors (FGFRs) are upregulated in MPM. Their signals are important players in MPM malignant behavior and inhibition leads to reduced growth in vitro and in vivo. Several FGFs/FGFRs are predicted mir-15/16 targets. Aim of this study was to investigate the interaction of the miR-15/16 family and FGF signals in MPM.