MicroRNA-21 regulates expression of the PTEN tumor suppressor gene in human hepatocellular cancer

Melatonin targeting non-coding RNAs in cancer: Focus on mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets

Despite, melatonin is mainly known as a regulatory factor for circadian rhythm, its notable role in other fundamental biological processes, such as redox homeostasis and programmed cell death, has been found. In this line, a growing body of evidence indicated that melatonin could apply an inhibitory effect on the tumorigenic processes. Hence, melatonin might be considered an efficient adjuvant agent for cancer treatment. Besides, the physiological and pathological functions of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in various disease, particularly cancers, have been expanded over the past two decades. It is well-established that ncRNAs can modulate the gene expression at various levels, thereby, ncRNAs. can regulate the numerous biological processes, including cell proliferation, cell metabolism, apoptosis, and cell cycle. Recently, targeting the ncRNAs expression provides a novel insight in the therapeutic approaches for cancer treatment. Moreover, accumulating investigations have revealed that melatonin could impact the expression of different ncRNAs in a multiple disorders, including cancer. Therefore, in the precent study, we discuss the potential roles of melatonin in modulating the expression of ncRNAs and the related molecular pathways in different types of cancer. Also, we highlighted its importance in therapeutic application and translational medicine in cancer treatment.

Inhibiting CDK4/6 in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma via microRNA-21

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most aggressive malignancies, with a 5-year survival rate of 5-10 %. The high mortality rate is due to the asymptomatic progression of clinical features in metastatic stages of the disease, which renders standard therapeutic options futile. PDAC is characterised by alterations in several genes that drive carcinogenesis and limit therapeutic response. The two most common genetic aberrations in PDAC are the mutational activation of KRAS and loss of the tumour suppressor CDK inhibitor 2A (CDKN2A), which culminate the activation of the cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and 6 (CDK4/6), that promote G1 cell cycle progression. Therapeutic strategies focusing on the CDK4/6 inhibitors such as palbociclib (PD-0332991) may potentially improve outcomes in this malignancy. MicroRNAs (miRs/miRNAs) are small endogenous non-coding RNA molecules associated with cellular proliferation, invasion, apoptosis, and cell cycle. Primarily, miR-21 promotes cell proliferation and a higher proportion of PDAC cells in the S phase, while knockdown of miR-21 has been linked to cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase and inhibition of cell proliferation. In this study, using a CRISPR/Cas9 loss-of-function screen, we individually silenced the expression of miR-21 in two PDAC cell lines and in combination with PD-0332991 treatment, we examined the synergetic mechanisms of CDK4/6 inhibitors and miR-21 knockouts (KOs) on cell survival and death. This combination reduced cell proliferation, cell viability, increased apoptosis and G1 arrest in vitro. We further analysed the mitochondrial respiration and glycolysis of PDAC cells; then assessed the protein content of these cells and revealed numerous Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways associated with PD-0332991 treatment and miR-21 knocking out. Our results demonstrate that combined targeting of CDK4/6 and silencing of miR-21 represents a novel therapeutic strategy in PDAC.

Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes in Ophthalmology: A Comprehensive Review

Over the past decade, the field of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy has exhibited rapid growth. Due to their regenerative, reparatory, and immunomodulatory capacities, MSCs have been widely investigated as therapeutic agents in the cell-based treatment of chronic ophthalmic pathologies. However, the applicability of MSC-based therapy is limited by suboptimal biocompatibility, penetration, and delivery to the target ocular tissues. An emerging body of research has elucidated the role of exosomes in the biological functions of MSCs, and that MSC-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) possess anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, tissue repairing, neuroprotective, and immunomodulatory properties similar to MSCs. The recent advances in MSCs-derived exosomes can serve as solutions to the challenges faced by MSCs-therapy. Due to their nano-dimensions, MSC-derived exosomes can rapidly penetrate biological barriers and reach immune-privileged organs, allowing for efficient delivery of therapeutic factors such as trophic and immunomodulatory agents to ocular tissues that are typically challenging to target by conventional therapy and MSCs transplantation. In addition, the use of EVs minimizes the risks associated with mesenchymal stem cell transplantation. In this literature review, we focus on the studies published between 2017 and 2022, highlighting the characteristics of EVs derived from MSCs and their biological functions in treating anterior and posterior segment ocular diseases. Additionally, we discuss the potential use of EVs in clinical settings. Rapid advancements in regenerative medicine and exosome-based drug delivery, in conjunction with an increased understanding of ocular pathology and pharmacology, hold great promise for the treatment of ocular diseases. The potential of exosome-based therapies is exciting and can revolutionize the way we approach these ocular conditions.

Doxorubicin and Cisplatin Modulate miR-21, miR-106, miR-126, miR-155 and miR-199 Levels in MCF7, MDA-MB-231 and SK-BR-3 Cells That Makes Them Potential Elements of the DNA-Damaging Drug Treatment Response Monitoring in Breast Cancer Cells—A Preliminary Study

One of the most innovative medical trends is personalized therapy, based on simple and reproducible methods that detect unique features of cancer cells. One of the good prognostic and diagnostic markers may be the miRNA family. Our work aimed to evaluate changes in selected miRNA levels in various breast cancer cell lines (MCF7, MDA-MB-231, SK-BR-3) treated with doxorubicin or cisplatin. The selection was based on literature data regarding the most commonly altered miRNAs in breast cancer (21-3p, 21-5p, 106a-5p, 126-3p, 126-5p, 155-3p, 155-5p, 199b-3p, 199b-5p, 335-3p, 335-5p). qPCR assessment revealed significant differences in the basal levels of some miRNAs in respective cell lines, with the most striking difference in miR-106a-5p, miR-335-5p and miR-335-3p—all of them were lowest in MCF7, while miR-153p was not detected in SK-BR-3. Additionally, different alterations of selected miRNAs were observed depending on the cell line and the drug. However, regardless of these variables, 21-3p/-5p, 106a, 126-3p, 155-3p and 199b-3p miRNAs were shown to respond either to doxorubicin or to cisplatin treatment. These miRNAs seem to be good candidates for markers of breast cancer cell response to doxorubicin or cisplatin. Especially since some earlier reports suggested their role in affecting pathways and expression of genes associated with the DNA-damage response. However, it must be emphasized that the preliminary study shows effects that may be highly related to the applied drug itself and its concentration. Thus, further examination, including human samples, is required.

The role of miRNAs in liver diseases: Potential therapeutic and clinical applications

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of short, non-coding RNAs that function post-transcriptionally to regulate gene expression by binding to particular mRNA targets and causing destruction of the mRNA or translational inhibition of the mRNA. The miRNAs control the range of liver activities, from the healthy to the unhealthy. Considering that miRNA dysregulation is linked to liver damage, fibrosis, and tumorigenesis, miRNAs are a promising therapeutic strategy for the evaluation and treatment of liver illnesses. Recent findings on the regulation and function of miRNAs in liver diseases are discussed, with an emphasis on miRNAs that are highly expressed or enriched in hepatocytes. Alcohol-related liver illness, acute liver toxicity, viral hepatitis, hepatocellular carcinoma, liver fibrosis, liver cirrhosis, and exosomes in chronic liver disease all emphasize the roles and target genes of these miRNAs. We briefly discuss the function of miRNAs in the etiology of liver diseases, namely in the transfer of information between hepatocytes and other cell types via extracellular vesicles. Here we offer some background on the use of miRNAs as biomarkers for the early prognosis, diagnosis, and assessment of liver diseases. The identification of biomarkers and therapeutic targets for liver disorders will be made possible by future research into miRNAs in the liver, which will also help us better understand the pathogeneses of liver diseases.

The role of microRNA-21 (miR-21) in pathogenesis, diagnosis, and prognosis of gastrointestinal cancers: A review

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs regulating the expression of several target genes. miRNAs play a significant role in cancer biology, as they can downregulate their corresponding target genes by impeding the translation of mRNA (at the mRNA level) as well as degrading mRNAs by binding to the 3'-untranslated (UTR) regions (at the protein level). miRNAs may be employed as cancer biomarkers. Therefore, miRNAs are widely investigated for early detection of cancers which can lead to improved survival rates and quality of life. This is particularly important in the case of gastrointestinal cancers, where early detection of the disease could substantially impact patients' survival. MicroRNA-21 (miR-21 or miRNA-21) is one of the most frequently researched miRNAs, where it is involved in the pathophysiology of cancer and the downregulation of several tumor suppressor genes. In gastrointestinal cancers, miR-21 regulates phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN), programmed cell death 4 (PDCD4), mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 7 (SMAD7), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase /protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT), matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), β-catenin, tropomyosin 1, maspin, and ras homolog gene family member B (RHOB). In this review, we investigate the functions of miR-21 in pathogenesis and its applications as a diagnostic and prognostic cancer biomarker in four different gastrointestinal cancers, including colorectal cancer (CRC), pancreatic cancer (PC), gastric cancer (GC), and esophageal cancer (EC).

Anti-seed PNAs targeting multiple oncomiRs for brain tumor therapy

Glioblastoma (GBM) is one of the most lethal malignancies with poor survival and high recurrence rates. Here, we aimed to simultaneously target oncomiRs 10b and 21, reported to drive GBM progression and invasiveness. We designed short (8-mer) γ-modified peptide nucleic acids (sγPNAs), targeting the seed region of oncomiRs 10b and 21. We entrapped these anti-miR sγPNAs in nanoparticles (NPs) formed from a block copolymer of poly(lactic acid) and hyperbranched polyglycerol (PLA-HPG). The surface of the NPs was functionalized with aldehydes to produce bioadhesive NPs (BNPs) with superior transfection efficiency and tropism for tumor cells. When combined with temozolomide, sγPNA BNPs administered via convection-enhanced delivery (CED) markedly increased the survival (>120 days) of two orthotopic (intracranial) mouse models of GBM. Hence, we established that BNPs loaded with anti-seed sγPNAs targeting multiple oncomiRs are a promising approach to improve the treatment of GBM, with a potential to personalize treatment based on tumor-specific oncomiRs.

The Emerging Role of Epigenetics in Metabolism and Endocrinology

Each cell in a multicellular organism has its own phenotype despite sharing the same genome. Epigenetics is a somatic, heritable pattern of gene expression or cellular phenotype mediated by structural changes in chromatin that occur without altering the DNA sequence. Epigenetic modification is an important factor in determining the level and timing of gene expression in response to endogenous and exogenous stimuli. There is also growing evidence concerning the interaction between epigenetics and metabolism. Accordingly, several enzymes that consume vital metabolites as substrates or cofactors are used during the catalysis of epigenetic modification. Therefore, altered metabolism might lead to diseases and pathogenesis, including endocrine disorders and cancer. In addition, it has been demonstrated that epigenetic modification influences the endocrine system and immune response-related pathways. In this regard, epigenetic modification may impact the levels of hormones that are important in regulating growth, development, reproduction, energy balance, and metabolism. Altering the function of the endocrine system has negative health consequences. Furthermore, endocrine disruptors (EDC) have a significant impact on the endocrine system, causing the abnormal functioning of hormones and their receptors, resulting in various diseases and disorders. Overall, this review focuses on the impact of epigenetics on the endocrine system and its interaction with metabolism.

Circulating microRNAs in gallbladder cancer: Is serum assay of diagnostic value?

The microRNAs (miRNAs) in circulation could serve as biomarkers for cancer detection. Gallbladder carcinoma (GBC) is mostly asymptomatic; therefore, using microRNAs (miRNAs) as an early diagnostic biomarker could be a valuable tool. We aimed to identify the tumor-associated miR-1, miR130, miR-146, miR-182, and miR-21expression in serum as a biomarker for early detection of GBC and identify their possible diagnostic role. The study group comprised of paired serum and tissue samples from 34 GBC, 19 cholecystitis (CC), 21 normal controls (uninflamed gall bladder), and additional 29 serum-only samples of GBC. Total RNA was isolated using a commercially available RNA isolation kit (Applied Biosystem, USA) and reverse transcribed using Advanced Taqman MicroRNA reverse transcription kit. The relative expression of miRNAs was analyzed using Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The diagnostic potential of these miRNAs was assessed by ROC analysis. In paired samples, the trend towards up and down regulation for miR-182, miR-21, miR-1, miR-130, and miR-146 was similar in both tissue and sera of GBC. The expression pattern of serum miR-1, miR130, and miR-146 gradually decreased from normal control (NC) to CC to GBC, while miR-21 and miR-182 gradually increased from NC to CC to GBC. The miR-1, miR-121, miR-182, and miR-146 significantly differed between CC vs. early stage and early stage vs. NC. Among these miRNAs, the sensitivity of miR-1 (85.71 %) was the highest, and the specificity of miR-21 was the highest (92.73 %). The combined sensitivity for miRNAs ranged from 73.13 % (CI: 60.90-83.24 %) to 98.63 % (CI: 89.0-99.61 %); however, the specificity was lower. In stage I&II vs. III&IV discrimination, the diagnostic sensitivity of miR-1 was highest (89.36 %, CI: 76.90-96.45). The two miRNAs, in combination, increase the diagnostic sensitivity. Circulating serum miRNAs may provide a new approach for clinical application. Panels of specific circulating miRNA, which require further validation, could be potential non-invasive diagnostic biomarkers for GBC in combination with abnormal radio diagnostic scans.

MiR-548k suppresses apoptosis in breast cancer cells by affecting PTEN/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway

Breast cancer is the most aggressive and fatal form of cancer among women globally. Although the role of some miRNAs that are often dysregulated in breast cancer has been deciphered, the regulatory function of others still remains unknown. The current study was aimed at determining the biological role and underlying mechanism of miR-548k in breast cancer. In this study, the significant overexpression of miR-548k in breast cancer tissues compared to adjacent normal tissues was confirmed. Also, bioinformatics analysis indicated that PTEN, as a negative regulator of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, was a potential target of miR-548k, and its expression was downregulated in breast cancer tissues rather than normal tissues. Furthermore, the ectopic increase of miR-548k decreased the expression of PTEN in breast cancer, suggesting that PTEN is one of the potential downstream targets of miR-548k. Besides, functional analysis was conducted to assess the capability of miR-548k to alter apoptosis along with the changed expression levels of miR-548k in breast cancer cells. Based on this investigation, forced increase of miR-548k disrupted programmed cell death in MCF-7 cells. Apart from this, in silico study of miR-548 family supported its association with the main components of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, opening a prospective research area in cancer therapy. In brief, suppression of PTEN partly mediated by miR-548k diminished apoptosis and promoted cell proliferation through PI3K/Akt pathway in breast cancer, suggesting a novel therapeutic axis, miR-548k/PTEN/ PI3K/Akt, for treatment of breast cancer in the future.

Clinical application study on miR-98-5p as a prognostic biomarker in hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

On the one hand, to investigate the targeted regulation of miR-98-5p on heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor (HBEGF) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). On the other hand, elucidate the predictive effect of miR-98-5p combined with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data on the clinical prognosis of HCC patients.

METHODS

Serum samples from 98 HCC patients and 54 healthy subjects were selected in order to detect miR-98-5p as well as HBEGF expression levels via real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). A Luciferase reporter assay was performed to detect the interaction between miR-98-5p and HBEGF gene. The serum levels of IL-2, TNF-α, TGF-β1 and IFN-γ in HCC patients and in the control group (healthy subjects) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In addition, receiver operator characteristic curve (ROC) was utilized to analyze the predictive ability of miR-98-5p combined with HBEGF for HCC. Finally, the survival curves were used to analyze the effect of HBEGF and miR-98-5p on the survival of patients with HCC.

RESULTS

RT-qPCR results showed that the expression level of miR-98-5p was significantly decreased, while HBEGF expression was significantly increased in the serum of HCC patients compared with the control group. Luciferase reporter assay confirmed that miR-98-5p could target and bind HBEGF. Additionally, according to ELISA, IL-2, TNF-α, and TGF-β1 were significantly increased, while IFN-γ was significantly decreased in the serum of HCC patients compared with the control group. The results of ROC indicated that expressive levels of miR-98-5p and HBEGF had a high diagnostic value for HCC. At the same time, the survival curve results indicated high HBEGF expression and low miR-98-5p expression, suggesting a poor prognosis for HCC patients.

CONCLUSION

MiR-98-5p can target the down-regulating HBEGF gene. In addition, miR-98-5p combined with MRI data is of crucial guiding value in assessing the prognosis of patients with HCC in the clinic.

Nuclear PTEN's Functions in Suppressing Tumorigenesis: Implications for Rare Cancers

Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) encodes a tumor-suppressive phosphatase with both lipid and protein phosphatase activity. The tumor-suppressive functions of PTEN are lost through a variety of mechanisms across a wide spectrum of human malignancies, including several rare cancers that affect pediatric and adult populations. Originally discovered and characterized as a negative regulator of the cytoplasmic, pro-oncogenic phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K) pathway, PTEN is also localized to the nucleus where it can exert tumor-suppressive functions in a PI3K pathway-independent manner. Cancers can usurp the tumor-suppressive functions of PTEN to promote oncogenesis by disrupting homeostatic subcellular PTEN localization. The objective of this review is to describe the changes seen in PTEN subcellular localization during tumorigenesis, how PTEN enters the nucleus, and the spectrum of impacts and consequences arising from disrupted PTEN nuclear localization on tumor promotion. This review will highlight the immediate need in understanding not only the cytoplasmic but also the nuclear functions of PTEN to gain more complete insights into how important PTEN is in preventing human cancers.

Exosomal miRNA in early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma

The incidence and mortality of hepatic carcinoma (HCC) remain high, and early diagnosis of HCC is seen as a key approach in improving clinical outcomes. However, the sensitivity and specificity of current early screening methods for HCC are not satisfactory. In recent years, research around exosomal miRNA has gradually increased, and these molecules have emerged as attractive candidates for early diagnosis and treatment of HCC. This review summarizes the feasibility of using miRNAs in peripheral blood exosomes as early diagnostic tools for HCC.

Multiomics Study of a Novel Naturally Derived Small Molecule, NSC772864, as a Potential Inhibitor of Proto-Oncogenes Regulating Cell Cycle Progression in Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most prevalent malignant tumors, and it contributes to high numbers of deaths globally. Although advances in understanding CRC molecular mechanisms have shed significant light on its pathogenicity, current treatment options, including combined chemotherapy and molecular-targeted agents, are still limited due to resistance, with almost 25% of patients developing distant metastasis. Therefore, identifying novel biomarkers for early diagnosis is crucial, as they will also influence strategies for new targeted therapies. The proto-oncogene, c-Met, a tyrosine kinase that promotes cell proliferation, motility, and invasion; c-MYC, a transcription factor associated with the modulation of the cell cycle, proliferation, apoptosis; and cyclin D1 (CCND1), an essential regulatory protein in the cell cycle, all play crucial roles in cancer progression. In the present study, we explored computational simulations through bioinformatics analysis and identified the overexpression of c-Met/GSK3β/MYC/CCND1 oncogenic signatures that were associated with cancer progression, drug resistance, metastasis, and poor clinical outcomes in CRC. We further demonstrated the anticancer activities of our newly synthesized quinoline-derived compound, NSC772864, against panels of the National Cancer Institute's human CRC cell lines. The compound exhibited cytotoxic activities against various CRC cell lines. Using target prediction tools, we found that c-Met/GSK3β/MYC/CCND1 were target genes for the NSC772864 compound. Subsequently, we performed in silico molecular docking to investigate protein-ligand interactions and discovered that NSC772864 exhibited higher binding affinities with these oncogenes compared to FDA-approved drugs. These findings strongly suggest that NSC772864 is a novel and potential antiCRC agent.

Regenerative Effects of Exosomes-Derived MSCs: An Overview on Spinal Cord Injury Experimental Studies

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating condition usually induced by the initial mechanical insult that can lead to permanent motor and sensory deficits. At present, researchers are investigating potential therapeutic strategies to ameliorate the neuro-inflammatory cascade that occurs post-injury. Although the use of mesenchymal stromal/stem (MSCs) as a potential therapy in application to regenerative medicine promoted anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, several disadvantages limit their use. Therefore, recent studies have reported the effects of exosomes-derived MSCs (MSC-EXOs) as an innovative therapeutic option for SCI patients. It is noteworthy that MSC-EXOs can maintain the integrity of the blood-spinal cord barrier (BSCB), promoting angiogenic, proliferative, and anti-oxidant effects, as well as immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic properties. Therefore, in this study, we summarized the preclinical studies reported in the literature that have shown the effects of MSC-EXOs as a new molecular target to counteract the devastating effects of SCI.

Targeting RNA with small molecules-A safety perspective

RNA is a major player in cellular function, and consequently can drive a number of disease pathologies. Over the past several years, small molecule-RNA targeting (smRNA targeting) has developed into a promising drug discovery approach. Numerous techniques, tools, and assays have been developed to support this field, and significant investments have been made by pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. To date, the focus has been on identifying disease validated primary targets for smRNA drug development, yet RNA as a secondary (off) target for all small molecule drug programs largely has been unexplored. In this perspective, we discuss structure, target, and mechanism-driven safety aspects of smRNAs and highlight how these parameters can be evaluated in drug discovery programs to produce potentially safer drugs.

Plasma small extracellular vesicles from dogs affected by cutaneous mast cell tumors deliver high levels of miR-21-5p

Small extracellular vesicles (sEV) are a class of extracellular vesicles (30-150 nm), delivering molecules including proteins, metabolites, and microRNAs (miRNAs), involved in physiological intercellular crosstalk and disease pathogenesis. The present pilot study aims are (I) to develop an easy and fast protocol for the isolation of sEV from plasma of mast cell tumor (MCT)-affected dogs; (II) to evaluate if miR-21-5p (sEV-miR-21-5p), a miRNA overexpressed by MCT, is associated with sEV. Seventeen dogs have been enrolled in the study: 4 healthy and 13 (6 with and 7 without nodal metastasis) MCT-affected dogs. sEV were isolated using size exclusion chromatography (SEC) (IZON column 35nm) and were characterized by Western blot, Nanoparticle tracking analysis, and transmission electron microscopy. sEV-miR-21-5p was quantified using digital PCR. sEV expressed the specific markers CD9 and TSG101, and a marker of mast cell tryptase. The sEV mean concentration and size were 2.68E + 10 particles/ml, and 99.6 nm, 2.89E + 10 particles/ml and 101.7 nm, and 3.21E + 10 particles/ml and 124 nm in non-metastatic, nodal metastatic, and healthy samples, respectively. The comparative analysis demonstrated that the level of sEV-miR-21-5p was significantly higher in dogs with nodal metastasis compared to healthy (P = 0.038) and without nodal metastasis samples (P = 0.007). In conclusion, the present work demonstrated that a pure population of sEV can be isolated from the plasma of MCT-affected dogs using the SEC approach and that the level of sEV-miR-21-5p is higher in nodal metastatic MCT-affected dogs compared with healthy and MCT-affected dogs without nodal involvement.

Cell cycle related long non-coding RNAs as the critical regulators of breast cancer progression and metastasis

Cell cycle is one of the main cellular mechanisms involved in tumor progression. Almost all of the active molecular pathways in tumor cells directly or indirectly target the cell cycle progression. Therefore, it is necessary to assess the molecular mechanisms involved in cell cycle regulation in tumor cells. Since, early diagnosis has pivotal role in better cancer management and treatment, it is required to introduce the non-invasive diagnostic markers. Long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) have higher stability in body fluids in comparison with mRNAs. Therefore, they can be used as efficient non-invasive markers for the early detection of breast cancer (BCa). In the present review we have summarized all of the reported lncRNAs involved in cell cycle regulation in BCa. It has been reported that lncRNAs mainly affect the cell cycle in G1/S transition through the CCND1/CDK4-6 complex. Present review paves the way of introducing the cell cycle related lncRNAs as efficient markers for the early detection of BCa.

miR-21 Inhibits Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cell Proliferation and Promotes Apoptosis

This study assesses miR-21’s role in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. miR-21/PTEN RNA level in normal and NSCLC cell (A549) was detected by qPCR. After transfection of miR-21 and inhibitors, cell proliferation was assessed by MTT. PTEN, NF-κB, p53, BCL2, BAX levels were measured after si-PTEN transfection. miR-21 was significantly lower and PTEN was higher in NSCLC cells than normal cells (P <0.001) and PTEN was negatively associated with miR-21. MTT assay showed that cell survival rate was decreased after miR-21 was inhibited and increased after miR-21 was overexpressed. After inhibiting PTEN, protein expression of proliferation-related factors NF-κB and p53 was decreased. TUNEL experiment showed elevated cell apoptosis after miR-21 was inhibited and decreased apoptosis after miR-21 was overexpressed. Inhibition of PTEN modulated Akt signaling as demonstrated by no changes of Akt expression and decreased p-Akt level along with downregulated BCL2 and BAX. In conclusion, miR-21/PTEN inhibits NSCLC cell proliferation and promotes cell apoptosis.

MicroRNA-21 and microRNA-148a affects PTEN, NO and ROS in canine leishmaniasis

Canine Visceral leishmaniasis (CanL) poses a severe public health threat in several countries. Disease progression depends on the degree of immune response suppression. MicroRNAs (miRs) modulate mRNA translation into proteins and regulate various cellular functions and pathways associated with immune responses. MiR-21 and miR-148a can alter the parasite load and M1 macrophages are the principal cells in dogs' leishmanicidal activity. A previous study found increased miR-21 and miR-148a in splenic leukocytes (SL) of dogs with CanL using microarray analysis and in silico analysis identified PTEN pathway targets. PTEN is involved in the immune regulation of macrophages. We measured PTEN and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) before and after transfection SLs of dogs with CanL with mimic and inhibition of miR-21 and miR-148a. PTEN levels increased, NO and ROS decreased in SLs from dogs with CanL. Inhibition of miRNA-21 resulted in PTEN increase; in contrast, PTEN decreased after miR-148a inhibition. Nitrite (NO₂) levels increased after transfection with miR-21 inhibitor but were decreased with miR-148a inhibitor. The increase in miR-21 promoted a reduction in ROS and NO levels, but miR-148a inhibition increased NO and reduced ROS. These findings suggest that miR-21 and miR-148a can participate in immune response in CanL, affecting PTEN, NO, and ROS levels.

Cancer resistance via the downregulation of the tumor suppressors RKIP and PTEN expressions: therapeutic implications

The Raf kinase inhibitor protein (RKIP) has been reported to be underexpressed in many cancers and plays a role in the regulation of tumor cells' survival, proliferation, invasion, and metastasis, hence, a tumor suppressor. RKIP also regulates tumor cell resistance to cytotoxic drugs/cells. Likewise, the tumor suppressor, phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN), which inhibits the phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathway, is either mutated, underexpressed, or deleted in many cancers and shares with RKIP its anti-tumor properties and its regulation in resistance. The transcriptional and posttranscriptional regulations of RKIP and PTEN expressions and their roles in resistance were reviewed. The underlying mechanism of the interrelationship between the signaling expressions of RKIP and PTEN in cancer is not clear. Several pathways are regulated by RKIP and PTEN and the transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulations of RKIP and PTEN is significantly altered in cancers. In addition, RKIP and PTEN play a key role in the regulation of tumor cells response to chemotherapy and immunotherapy. In addition, molecular and bioinformatic data revealed crosstalk signaling networks that regulate the expressions of both RKIP and PTEN. These crosstalks involved the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/PI3K pathways and the dysregulated nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB)/Snail/Yin Yang 1 (YY1)/RKIP/PTEN loop in many cancers. Furthermore, further bioinformatic analyses were performed to investigate the correlations (positive or negative) and the prognostic significance of the expressions of RKIP or PTEN in 31 different human cancers. These analyses were not uniform and only revealed that there was a positive correlation between the expression of RKIP and PTEN only in few cancers. These findings demonstrated the existence of signaling cross-talks between RKIP and PTEN and both regulate resistance. Targeting either RKIP or PTEN (alone or in combination with other therapies) may be sufficient to therapeutically inhibit tumor growth and reverse the tumor resistance to cytotoxic therapies.

Primary and Secondary micro-RNA Modulation the Extrinsic Pathway of Apoptosis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Abstract-One of the most common malignant liver diseases is hepatocellular carcinoma, which has a high recurrence rate and a low five-year survival rate. It is very heterogeneous both in structure and between patients, which complicates the diagnosis, prognosis and response to treatment. In this regard, an individualized, patient-centered approach becomes important, in which the use of mimetics and hsa-miRNA inhibitors involved in the pathogenesis of the disease may be determinative. From this point of view hsa-miRNAs are of interest, their aberrant expression is associated with poor prognosis for patients and is associated with tumor progression due to dysregulation of programmed cell death (apoptosis). However, the effect of hsa-miRNA on tumor development depends not only on its direct effect on expression of genes, the primary targets, but also on secondary targets mediated by regulatory pathways. While the former are actively studied, the role of secondary targets of these hsa-miRNAs in modulating apoptosis is still unclear. The present work summarizes data on hsa-miRNAs whose primary targets are key genes of the extrinsic pathway of apoptosis. Their aberrant expression is associated with early disease relapse and poor patient outcome. For these hsa-miRNAs, using the software package ANDSystem, we reconstructed the regulation of the expression of secondary targets and analyzed their impact on the activity of the extrinsic pathway of apoptosis. The potential effect of hsa-miRNAs mediated by action on secondary targets is shown to negatively correlate with the number of primary targets. It is also shown that hsa-miR-373, hsa-miR-106b and hsa-miR-96 have the highest priority as markers of hepatocellular carcinoma, whose action on secondary targets enhances their anti-apoptotic effect.

Antitumor Activity of Anti-miR-21 Delivered through Lipid Nanoparticles

The ability of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) to deliver nucleic acids have shown a great therapeutic potential to treat a variety of diseases. Here, an optimized formulation of QTsome lipid nanoparticles (QTPlus) is utilized to deliver an anti-miR-21 (AM21) against cancer. The miR-21 downstream gene regulation and antitumor activity is evaluated using mouse and human cancer cells and macrophages. The antitumor activity of QTPlus encapsulating AM21 (QTPlus-AM21) is further evaluated in combination with erlotinib and atezolizumab (ATZ). QTPlus-AM21 demonstrates a superior miR-21-dependent gene regulation and eventually inhibits A549 non-small cell lung cancer growth in vitro. QTPlus-AM21 further induces chemo-sensitization of A549 cells to erlotinib with a combination index of 0.6 in inhibiting A549 cell growth. When systemically administers to MC38 tumor-bearing mouse model, QTPlus-AM21 exhibits an antitumor immune response with over 80% tumor growth inhibition (TGI%) and over twofold and fourfold PD-1 and PD-L1 upregulation in tumors and spleens. The combination therapy of QTPlus-AM21 and ATZ further shows a higher antitumor response (TGI% over 90%) and successfully increases M1 macrophages and CD8 T cells into TME. This study provides new insights into the antitumor mechanism of AM21 and shows great promise of QTPlus-AM21 in combination with chemotherapies and immunotherapies.

Prediction of miRNA-disease associations in microbes based on graph convolutional networks and autoencoders

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short RNA molecular fragments that regulate gene expression by targeting and inhibiting the expression of specific RNAs. Due to the fact that microRNAs affect many diseases in microbial ecology, it is necessary to predict microRNAs' association with diseases at the microbial level. To this end, we propose a novel model, termed as GCNA-MDA, where dual-autoencoder and graph convolutional network (GCN) are integrated to predict miRNA-disease association. The proposed method leverages autoencoders to extract robust representations of miRNAs and diseases and meantime exploits GCN to capture the topological information of miRNA-disease networks. To alleviate the impact of insufficient information for the original data, the association similarity and feature similarity data are combined to calculate a more complete initial basic vector of nodes. The experimental results on the benchmark datasets demonstrate that compared with the existing representative methods, the proposed method has achieved the superior performance and its precision reaches up to 0.8982. These results demonstrate that the proposed method can serve as a tool for exploring miRNA-disease associations in microbial environments.

MicroRNAs: Small molecules with big impacts in liver injury

A type of small noncoding RNAs known as microRNAs (miRNAs) fine-tune gene expression posttranscriptionally by binding to certain messenger RNA targets. Numerous physiological processes in the liver, such as differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis, are regulated by miRNAs. Additionally, there is growing evidence that miRNAs contribute to liver pathology. Extracellular vesicles like exosomes, which contain secreted miRNAs, may facilitate paracrine and endocrine communication between various tissues by changing the gene expression and function of distal cells. The use of stable miRNAs as noninvasive biomarkers was made possible by the discovery of these molecules in body fluids. Circulating miRNAs reflect the conditions of the liver that are abnormal and may serve as new biomarkers for the early detection, prognosis, and evaluation of liver pathological states. miRNAs are appealing therapeutic targets for a range of liver disease states because altered miRNA expression is associated with deregulation of the liver's metabolism, liver damage, liver fibrosis, and tumor formation. This review provides a comprehensive review and update on miRNAs biogenesis pathways and mechanisms of miRNA-mediated gene silencing. It also outlines how miRNAs affect hepatic cell proliferation, death, and regeneration as well as hepatic detoxification. Additionally, it highlights the diverse functions that miRNAs play in the onset and progression of various liver diseases, including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, alcoholic liver disease, fibrosis, hepatitis C virus infection, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Further, it summarizes the diverse liver-specific miRNAs, illustrating the potential merits and possible caveats of their utilization as noninvasive biomarkers and appealing therapeutic targets for liver illnesses.

Progress of radiological‑pathological workflows in the differential diagnosis between primary central nervous system lymphoma and high‑grade glioma (Review)

Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) and high‑grade glioma (HGG) are distinct entities of the CNS with completely distinct treatments. The treatment of PCNSL is chemotherapy‑based, while surgery is the first choice for HGG. However, the clinical features of the two entities often overlap, and a clear pathological diagnosis is important for subsequent management, especially for the management of PCNSL. Stereotactic biopsy is recognized as one of the minimally invasive alternatives for evaluating the involvement of the CNS. However, in the case of limited tissue materials, the differential diagnosis between the two entities is still difficult. In addition, some patients are too ill to tolerate a needle biopsy. Therefore, combining imaging, histopathology and laboratory examinations is essential in order to make a clear diagnosis as soon as possible. The present study reviews the progress of comparative research on both imaging and laboratory tests based on the pathophysiological changes of the two entities, and proposes an integrative and optimized diagnostic process, with the purpose of building a better understanding for neurologists, hematologists, radiologists and pathologists.

The role of miRNA-128 in the development and progression of gastrointestinal and urogenital cancer

Increasing data have shown the significance of various miRNAs in malignancy. In this regard, parallel to its biological role in normal tissues, miRNA-128 (miR-128) has been found to play an essential immunomodulatory function in the process of cancer initiation and development. The occurrence of the aberrant expression of miR-128 in tumors and the unique properties of miRNAs raise the prospect of their use as biomarkers and the next generation of molecular anticancer therapies. The function of miR-128 in malignancies such as breast, prostate, colorectal, gastric, pancreatic, esophageal, cervical, ovarian and bladder cancers and hepatocellular carcinoma is discussed in this review. Finally, the effect of exosomal miR-128 on cancer resistance to therapeutics and cancer immunotherapy in certain malignancies is highlighted.

Recent advances on the electrochemical and optical biosensing strategies for monitoring microRNA-21: a review

The small non-coding RNA, microRNA-21 (miR-21), is dysregulated in various cancers and can be considered an appropriate target for therapeutic approaches. Therefore, the detection of miR-21 concentration is important in the diagnosis of diseases. Low specificity and the cost of materials are two necessary limitations in the traditional diagnosis method such as RT-PCR, northern blotting and microarray analysis. Biosensor technology can play an effective role in improving the quality of human life due to its capacity of rapid diagnosis, monitoring different markers, suitable sensitivity, and specificity. Moreover, bioanalytical systems have an essential role in the detection of biomolecules or miRNAs due to their critical features, including easy usage, portability, low cost and real-time analysis. Electrochemical biosensors based on novel nanomaterials and oligonucleotides can hybridize with miR-21 in different ranges. Moreover, optical biosensors and piezoelectric devices have been developed for miR-21 detection. In this study, we have evaluated different materials used in bioanalytical systems for miR-21 detection as well as various nanomaterials that offer improved electrodes for its detection.

A comparative mRNA- and miRNA transcriptomics reveals novel molecular signatures associated with metastatic prostate cancers

Background: Prostate cancer (PC) is a fatally aggressive urogenital cancer killing millions of men, globally. Thus, this study aims to identify key miRNAs, target genes, and drug targets associated with prostate cancer metastasis.

Methods: The miRNA and mRNA expression datasets of 148 prostate tissue biopsies (39 tumours and 109 normal tissues), were analysed by differential gene expression analysis, protein interactome mapping, biological pathway analysis, miRNA-mRNA networking, drug target analysis, and survival curve analysis.

Results: The dysregulated expression of 53 miRNAs and their 250 target genes involved in Hedgehog, ErbB, and cAMP signalling pathways connected to cell growth, migration, and proliferation of prostate cancer cells was detected. The subsequent miRNA-mRNA network and expression status analysis have helped us in narrowing down their number to 3 hub miRNAs (hsa-miR-455-3p, hsa-miR-548c-3p, and hsa-miR-582-5p) and 9 hub genes (NFIB, DICER1, GSK3B, DCAF7, FGFR1OP, ABHD2, NACC2, NR3C1, and FGF2). Further investigations with different systems biology methods have prioritized NR3C1, ABHD2, and GSK3B as potential genes involved in prostate cancer metastasis owing to their high mutation load and expression status. Interestingly, down regulation of NR3C1 seems to improve the prostate cancer patient survival rate beyond 150 months. The NR3C1, ABHD2, and GSK3B genes are predicted to be targeted by hsa-miR-582-5p, besides some antibodies, PROTACs and inhibitory molecules.

Conclusion: This study identified key miRNAs (miR-548c-3p and miR-582-5p) and target genes (NR3C1, ABHD2, and GSK3B) as potential biomarkers for metastatic prostate cancers from large-scale gene expression data using systems biology approaches.

Anticarcinogenic Effects of Isothiocyanates on Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer, accounting for about 90% of cases. Sorafenib, lenvatinib, and the combination of atezolizumab and bevacizumab are considered first-line treatments for advanced HCC. However, clinical application of these drugs has also caused some adverse reactions such as hypertension, elevated aspartate aminotransferases, and proteinuria. At present, natural products and their derivatives have drawn more and more attention due to less side effects as cancer treatments. Isothiocyanates (ITCs) are one type of hydrolysis products from glucosinolates (GLSs), secondary plant metabolites found exclusively in cruciferous vegetables. Accumulating evidence from encouraging in vitro and in vivo animal models has demonstrated that ITCs have multiple biological activities, especially their potentially health-promoting activities (antibacterial, antioxidant, and anticarcinogenic effects). In this review, we aim to comprehensively summarize the chemopreventive, anticancer, and chemosensitizative effects of ITCs on HCC, and explain the underlying molecular mechanisms.

GPM6A expression is suppressed in hepatocellular carcinoma through miRNA-96 production

GPM6A is a glycoprotein in endothelial cells, and its biological function in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is unknown. Through Affymetrix gene expression microarray and bioinformatic analysis, very low GPM6A expression was found in HCC tissue. The present study aims to explore the function and regulatory mechanism of GPM6A in HCC development and progression. Levels of GPM6A expression in HCC specimens from different disorders and various hepatoma cell lines were determined, and its role on cell proliferation was evaluated in hepatoma cells stably overexpressing GPM6A. Modulation of a specific microRNA (miRNA) on its expression and function was evaluated with miRNA mimetic transfection. Herein, it is reported that much lower GPM6A levels were found in HCC tissues than pericancerous liver tissues and correlated to a poor prognosis. GPM6A overexpression inhibited cell proliferation, suppressed colony formation, migration and invasion in two hepatoma cell types. Available evidence does not support that genetic and epigenetic dysregulation contributes significantly to GPM6A inactivation in HCC. Additional findings demonstrated that miR-96-5p acted directly on the 3'-UTR of the GPM6A gene and significantly decreased its mRNA and protein levels. MiR-96-5p transfection promoted proliferation, migration and invasion of SMMC-7721 and MHCC-97H hepatoma cells; whereas the function of oncogenic microRNA-96 was significantly inhibited in GPM6A-overexpressed hepatoma cells. In conclusion, GPM6A expression in HCC is commonly suppressed regardless its base disease types, and its low expression in HCC tissues is most likely attributed to upregulated miR-96-5p. GPM6A may function as a valuable biomarker for HCC progression and prognosis.

Therapy-induced modulation of extracellular vesicles in hepatocellular carcinoma

Despite rapid development of anti-tumorigenic treatments, the clinical outcome for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is still far from satisfactory. With a deeper understanding about tumor microenvironment (TME), the critical role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) as intercellular liaison has come into spotlight. The dynamic functionality of these nanoparticles revealed cancer cells can employ both tumor and non-tumorous components for their own benefit, so as to mediate cell-to-cell communication and interchange of oncogenic biomolecules. Increasing studies on HCC-derived EVs have identified various irregulated biomolecules, that may serve as biomarkers or therapeutic targets. In this review, we first introduce the current knowledge about EVs and how they operate to maintain a healthy liver microenvironment. We then summarize some of the aberrant observations reported on HCC-derived EVs and how they contribute to HCC pathogenesis. Finally, we describe how current treatments for HCC alter behavior of EVs, which may shed light for potential prognostic markers and therapeutic strategies.

Therapies Based on Adipose-Derived Stem Cells for Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction: A Narrative Review

Lower urinary tract dysfunction often requires tissue repair or replacement to restore physiological functions. Current clinical treatments involving autologous tissues or synthetic materials inevitably bring in situ complications and immune rejection. Advances in therapies using stem cells offer new insights into treating lower urinary tract dysfunction. One of the most frequently used stem cell sources is adipose tissue because of its easy access, abundant source, low risk of severe complications, and lack of ethical issues. The regenerative capabilities of adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) in vivo are primarily orchestrated by their paracrine activities, strong regenerative potential, multi-differentiation potential, and cell–matrix interactions. Moreover, biomaterial scaffolds conjugated with ASCs result in an extremely effective tissue engineering modality for replacing or repairing diseased or damaged tissues. Thus, ASC-based therapy holds promise as having a tremendous impact on reconstructive urology of the lower urinary tract.

Microbiota and Extracellular Vesicles in Anti-PD-1/PD-L1 Therapy

Simple Summary

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) targeting PD-1/PD-L1 have emerged as contemporary treatments for a variety of cancers. However, the efficacy of antibody-based ICIs could be further enhanced. Microbiota have been demonstrated to be among the vital factors governing cancer progression and response to therapy in patients. Bacteria secrete extracellular vesicles carrying bioactive metabolites within their cargo that can cross physiological barriers, selectively accumulate near tumor cells, and alter the tumor microenvironment. Extracellular vesicles, particularly those derived from bacteria, could thus be of promising assistance in refining the treatment outcomes for anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy. The potentiality of microbiota-derived extracellular vesicles in improving the currently used treatments and presenting new therapeutic avenues for cancer has been featured in this review.

Abstract

Cancer is a deadly disease worldwide. In light of the requisite of convincing therapeutic methods for cancer, immune checkpoint inhibition methods such as anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy appear promising. Human microbiota have been exhibited to regulate susceptibility to cancer as well as the response to anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy. However, the probable contribution of bacterial extracellular vesicles (bEVs) in cancer pathophysiology and treatment has not been investigated much. bEVs illustrate the ability to cross physiological barriers, assemble around the tumor cells, and likely modify the tumor microenvironment (EVs). This systematic review emphasizes the correlation between cancer-associated extracellular vesicles, particularly bEVs and the efficacy of anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy. The clinical and pharmacological prospective of bEVs in revamping the contemporary treatments for cancer has been further discussed.

Exosomes loaded with miR-665 inhibit the progression of osteosarcoma in vivo and in vitro

OBJECTIVE

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common primary malignant bone tumor and has a poor prognosis. Recent research has suggested that miR-665 affects the progression of OS. Moreover, an exosome delivery system presents better targeting effects, higher permeability, and lower immunogenicity than other nano-delivery systems do. The purpose of this study is to explore whether an exosome loaded with the miR-665 delivery system can inhibit OS development.

METHODS

The miR-665 expression was detected through a quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction assay. Transmission electron microscopy, nano-particle size analysis, and fluorescence microscope were utilized to observe exosomes. Cell growth was estimated by cell counting kit 8 and ethynyl deoxyuridine analyses. Assays of flow cytometry and Terminal-deoxynucleotidyl Transferase Mediated Nick End Labeling were introduced to test apoptosis in vitro or in vivo, respectively. Cell migration and invasion were measured using scratch and transwell assays. Engineered exosomes were prepared using electroporation. H&E staining was employed to observe necrotic cells and the function of heart, liver, spleen, lung and kidney. The expression of proteins was estimated by immunoblot analysis.

RESULTS

This work documented that the expression of miR-665 was down-regulated in OS tissues. Additionally, we proved that the over-expression of miR-665 inhibited OS proliferation. Besides, we found that exosomes loaded with miR-665 had similar tumor-inhibiting effects in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, we verified that the exosome delivery system exhibited good safety and target efficiency.

CONCLUSION

This work proved that exosomes loaded with miR-665 inhibited the progression of OS in vivo and in vitro in a safe manner.

The Implications of Noncoding RNAs in the Evolution and Progression of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)-Related HCC

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most prevalent liver pathology worldwide. Meanwhile, liver cancer represents the sixth most common malignancy, with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) as the primary, most prevalent subtype. Due to the rising incidence of metabolic disorders, NAFLD has become one of the main contributing factors to HCC development. However, although NAFLD might account for about a fourth of HCC cases, there is currently a significant gap in HCC surveillance protocols regarding noncirrhotic NAFLD patients, so the majority of NAFLD-related HCC cases were diagnosed in late stages when survival chances are minimal. However, in the past decade, the focus in cancer genomics has shifted towards the noncoding part of the genome, especially on the microRNAs (miRNAs) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), which have proved to be involved in the regulation of several malignant processes. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge regarding some of the main dysregulated, noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) and their implications for NAFLD and HCC development. A central focus of the review is on miRNA and lncRNAs that can influence the progression of NAFLD towards HCC and how they can be used as potential screening tools and future therapeutic targets.

Short-chain L-3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase: A novel vital oncogene or tumor suppressor gene in cancers

The reprogramming of cellular metabolism is frequently linked to tumorigenesis. Glucose, fatty acids, and amino acids are the specific substrates involved in how an organism maintains metabolic equilibrium. The HADH gene codes for the short-chain L-3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase (HADH), a crucial enzyme in fatty acid oxidation that catalyzes the third phase of fatty acid oxidation in mitochondria. Increasing data suggest that HADH is differentially expressed in various types of malignancies and is linked to cancer development and progression. The significance of HADH expression in tumors and its potential mechanisms of action in the onset and progression of certain cancers are summarized in this article. The possible roles of HADH as a target and/or biomarker for the detection and treatment of various malignancies is also described here.

Thyclotides, tetrahydrofuran-modified peptide nucleic acids that efficiently penetrate cells and inhibit microRNA-21

Peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) are promising therapeutic molecules for gene modulation; however, they suffer from poor cell uptake. Delivery of PNAs into cells requires conjugation of the PNA to another large molecule, typically a cell-penetrating peptide or nanoparticle. In this study, we describe a new PNA-based molecule with cyclic tetrahydrofuran (THF) backbone modifications that in some cases considerably improve cell uptake. We refer to these THF-PNA oligomers as thyclotides. With THF groups at every position of the oligomer, the cell uptake of thyclotides targeted to miR-21 is enhanced compared with the corresponding unmodified PNA based on an aminoethylglycine backbone. An optimized thyclotide can efficiently enter cells without the use of cell-penetrating peptides, bind miR-21, its designated microRNA target, decrease expression of miR-21 and increase expression of three downstream targets (PTEN, Cdc25a and KRIT1). Using a plasmid with the PTEN-3'UTR coupled with luciferase, we further confirmed that a miR-21-targeted thyclotide prevents miR-21 from binding to its target RNA. Additionally, the thyclotide shows no cytotoxicity when administered at 200 times its active concentration. We propose that thyclotides be further explored as therapeutic candidates to modulate miRNA levels.

LncRNA n339260 functions in hepatocellular carcinoma progression via regulation of miRNA30e-5p/TP53INP1 expression

BACKGROUND

Currently, the molecular mechanism of the interaction between lncRNAs and microRNAs (miRNAs) and the target of miRNAs in tumor vasculogenic mimicry (VM) formation have not been clarified. Our aim is to study the interaction between lncRNA n339260 and miRNA30e-5p in the formation of VM.

METHODS

Animal xenografts were established, 104 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients' frozen tissues were obtained and HCC cells in vitro were used to observe the role of n339260 in HCC progression.

RESULTS

In vivo experiment showed lncRNA n339260 promoted tumor growth and VM formation. LncRNA n339260 and miRNA30e-5p were found to be associated with VM formation, metastasis and survival time in HCC patients. In vitro experiment showed that LncRNA n339260 could inhibit miRNA30e-5p expression and TP53INP1 was found to be the downstream targets of miRNA30e-5p. Snail, MMP2, MMP9, VE-cadherin, vimentin and N-cadherin overexpression and the downregulation of TP53INP1 and E-cadherin were observed in HCCLM3 and HepG2 cells overexpressing lncRNA n339260 or in cells with decreased expression of miRNA30e-5p.

CONCLUSION

LncRNA n339260 promotes the development of VM, and lncRNA n339260 may enhance Snail expression by decreasing the expression of miRNA30e-5p, thereby reducing TP53INP1 expression. Therefore, a potential lncRNA n339260- miRNA30e-5p- TP53INP1 regulatory axis was associated with HCC progression.

MiR-21 regulates epithelial-mesenchymal transition in intestinal fibrosis of Crohn's disease by targeting PTEN/mTOR

BACKGROUND

Previous studies suggested miR-21 regulated epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and fibrosis in organs. The aim of this study was to explore the role and mechanism of miR-21 in EMT process of CD(Crohn's disease)-associated intestinal fibrosis.

METHODS

Tissue biopsies from fibrotic and nonfibrotic intestine of CD patients, and non-CD patients were obtained; chronic intestinal fibrosis model established by TNBS was treated with antagonist of miR-21; human intestinal epithelial cell, NCM460, were transfected with miR-21 mimics or inhibitor. The expressions of PTEN and mTOR, EMT-related markers and severity of colitis and fibrosis were examined.

RESULTS

Compared to the controls, miR-21 was significantly upregulated in the intestinal tissues from CD patients with fibro stenosis, followed by decreased PTEN expression, increased EMT markers, and mTOR expression, and imbalanced ratio of MMP9(matrix metalloproteinase 9)/TIMP1(tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1). MiR-21 downregulated the expression of PTEN and upregulated mTOR signal in NCM460 cell. Also, knocking miR-21 down reduced EMT in vitro. Inhibiting miR-21 with antagonists reversed TNBS-induced intestinal fibrosis in vivo, through suppressing EMT and balancing MMPs/TIMPs.

CONCLUSION

We identified the involvement of miR-21 in EMT during intestinal fibrosis via targeting PTEN and mTOR, and miR-21 inhibition relieved intestinal fibrosis by regulating extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling . Our results indicated miR-21 as a potential new target for the treatment of fibrosis complication in CD.

Sodium hydrosulfide and bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells combined therapy for bleomycin induced pulmonary fibrosis in rats: Implication of micro RNA-21 and Lnc GAS5

AIMS

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is considered as an end stage for many lung diseases. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) as regenerative therapy have become a remarkably valuable therapeutic strategy in different diseases. Hydrogen sulfide has been recently introduced into the medical field for its antifibrotic properties in addition to enhancement of MSC stemness and function. The aim of the present study was to investigate the ability of BM-MSC in combination with NaHS to attenuate Bleomycin induced pulmonary fibrosis was studied in rats. A special emphasis was given to miR-21 and GAS5 as important players in the development of PF.

MAIN METHODS

PF was induced in 32 Wistar male rats by single endotracheal injection of bleomycin, those were randomly divided into four groups (8 rats each): (untreated PF group) - (PF + MSC) treated group- (PF + NaHS treated group) - PF + combined (NAHS + MSC) treated group.

KEY FINDINGS

Induction of PF was associated with increased miR-21 and decreased lncRNA-GAS5 expression. Treatment with either NaHS or BM-MSC leads to an inhibitory effect on pulmonary fibrosis as evidenced by improvement of histopathological studies, pulmonary function tests, reduction of inflammatory and fibrotic markers like Hydroxyproline, TNF α, TGF-β and caspase -3 together with downregulation miR-21 and increase lncRNA-GAS5 expression.

SIGNIFICANCE

The current work revealed the inhibitory effect of combined NaHS and BM-MSC on pulmonary fibrosis with concomitant modulation of miR-21 and lncRNA-GAS5 expression.

Promotion or remission: a role of noncoding RNAs in colorectal cancer resistance to anti-EGFR therapy

Anti-epidermal-growth-factor-receptor (EGFR) monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are of great significance for RAS and BRAF wild-type metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients. However, the generation of primary and secondary resistance to anti-EGFR mAbs has become an important factor restricting its efficacy. Recent studies have revealed that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), especially long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), are implicated in anti-EGFR antibodies resistance, affecting the sensitivity of CRC cells to Cetuximab and Panitumumab. This paper briefly reviewed the research advance of the expression, signaling network and functional mechanism of ncRNAs related to anti-EGFR mAbs resistance in CRC, as well as their relationship with clinical prognosis and the possibility of therapeutic targets. In addition, some ncRNAs that are involved in the regulation of signaling pathways or genes related to anti-EGFR resistance, but need to be further verified by resistance experiments were also included in this review, thereby providing more ideas and basis for ncRNAs as CRC prognostic markers and anti-EGFR therapy sensitizers. Video Abstract.

Noncoding RNAs as additional mediators of epigenetic regulation in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has emerged as the most common cause of chronic liver disorder worldwide. It represents a spectrum that includes a continuum of different clinical entities ranging from simple steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, which can evolve to cirrhosis and in some cases to hepatocellular carcinoma, ultimately leading to liver failure. The pathogenesis of NAFLD and the mechanisms underlying its progression to more pathological stages are not completely understood. Besides genetic factors, evidence indicates that epigenetic mechanisms occurring in response to environmental stimuli also contribute to the disease risk. Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs, long noncoding RNAs, and circular RNAs, are one of the epigenetic factors that play key regulatory roles in the development of NAFLD. As the field of ncRNAs is rapidly evolving, the present review aims to explore the current state of knowledge on the roles of these RNA species in the pathogenesis of NAFLD, highlight relevant mechanisms by which some ncRNAs can modulate regulatory networks implicated in NAFLD, and discuss key challenges and future directions facing current research in the hopes of developing ncRNAs as next-generation non-invasive diagnostics and therapies in NAFLD and subsequent progression to hepatocellular carcinoma.

mRNA-miRNA networks identify metabolic pathways associated to the anti-tumorigenic effect of thyroid hormone on preneoplastic nodules and hepatocellular carcinoma

Background

Thyroid hormones (THs) inhibit hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) through different mechanisms. However, whether microRNAs play a role in the antitumorigenic effect of THs remains unknown.

Methods

By next generation sequencing (NGS) we performed a comprehensive comparative miRNomic and transcriptomic analysis of rat hepatic preneoplastic lesions exposed or not to a short-term treatment with triiodothyronine (T3). The expression of the most deregulated miRs was also investigated in rat HCCs, and in human hepatoma cell lines, treated or not with T3.

Results

Among miRs down-regulated in preneoplastic nodules following T3, co-expression networks revealed those targeting thyroid hormone receptor-β (Thrβ) and deiodinase1, and Oxidative Phosphorylation. On the other hand, miRs targeting members of the Nrf2 Oxidative Pathway, Glycolysis, Pentose Phosphate Pathway and Proline biosynthesis – all involved in the metabolic reprogramming displayed by preneoplastic lesions– were up-regulated. Notably, while the expression of most miRs deregulated in preneoplastic lesions was not altered in HCC or in hepatoma cells, miR-182, a miR known to target Dio1 and mitochondrial complexes, was down-deregulated by T3 treatment at all stages of hepatocarcinogenesis and in hepatocarcinoma cell lines. In support to the possible critical role of miR-182 in hepatocarcinogenesis, exogenous expression of this miR significantly impaired the inhibitory effect of T3 on the clonogenic growth capacity of human HCC cells.

Conclusions

This work identified several miRNAs, so far never associated to T3. In addition, the precise definition of the miRNA-mRNA networks elicited by T3 treatment gained in this study may provide a better understanding of the key regulatory events underlying the inhibitory effect of T3 on HCC development. In this context, T3-induced down-regulation of miR-182 appears as a promising tool.

TRIM proteins in hepatocellular carcinoma

The tripartite motif (TRIM) protein family is a highly conserved group of E3 ligases with 77 members known in the human, most of which consist of a RING-finger domain, one or two B-box domains, and a coiled-coil domain. Generally, TRIM proteins function as E3 ligases to facilitate specific proteasomal degradation of target proteins. In addition, E3 ligase independent functions of TRIM protein were also reported. In hepatocellular carcinoma, expressions of TRIM proteins are both regulated by genetic and epigenetic mechanisms. TRIM proteins regulate multiple biological activities and signaling cascades. And TRIM proteins influence hallmarks of HCC. This review systematically demonstrates the versatile roles of TRIM proteins in HCC and helps us better understand the molecular mechanism of the development and progression of HCC.

From Molecular Mechanisms to Therapeutics: Understanding MicroRNA-21 in Cancer

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs that play an important role in regulating gene expression at a posttranscriptional level. As one of the first discovered oncogenic miRNAs, microRNA-21 (miR-21) has been highlighted for its critical role in cancers, such as glioblastoma, pancreatic adenocarcinoma, non-small cell lung cancer, and many others. MiR-21 targets many vital components in a wide range of cancers and acts on various cellular processes ranging from cancer stemness to cell death. Expression of miR-21 is elevated within cancer tissues and circulating miR-21 is readily detectable in biofluids, making it valuable as a cancer biomarker with significant potential for use in diagnosis and prognosis. Advances in RNA-based therapeutics have revealed additional avenues by which miR-21 can be utilized as a promising target in cancer. The purpose of this review is to outline the roles of miR-21 as a key modulator in various cancers and its potential as a therapeutic target.

MicroRNA-20a-5p regulates the epithelial-mesenchymal transition of human hepatocellular carcinoma by targeting RUNX3

BACKGROUND

MicroRNA-20a (miR-20a) is dysregulated in many types of malignancies, including human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but its expression level and functional significance in HCC are still disputed. We aimed to study the role of miR-20a-5p in HCC and its downstream molecular mechanisms.

METHODS

We used real-time polymerase chain reaction to detect the expression of miR-20a-5p and runt-related transcription factor 3 ( RUNX3 ) in HCC and paraneoplastic tissue, transfected Huh7 and highly metastatic human hepatocellular carcinoma (MHCC97H) cells. A live cell workstation was used to observe the proliferation and migration of transfected cells. The invasiveness of transfected cells was verified by Transwell assay. Cell apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry. The expression levels of proteins after transfection were measured using simple western immunoblot measurements. Gene expression profiles between HCC and normal samples were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment results were processed by the database for annotation, visualization and integrated discovery. Potential target genes of miR-20a-5p were predicted to further investigate how miR-20a-5p regulates epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in HCC.

RESULTS

MiR-20a-5p was significantly highly expressed in HCC tissues, and overexpression of miR-20a-5p significantly promoted HCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and inhibited apoptosis in vitro. The protein expression of E-cadherin was decreased and that of vimentin was increased after overexpression of miR-20a-5p in HCC cells. We discovered the intersection of genes from miRDB, miR TarBase, and TargetScan, obtained 397 target genes and finally focused on RUNX3. RUNX3 was not only reduced in HCC specimens but also drastically reduced in HCC cells overexpressing miR-20a-5p. RUNX3 expression decreased with elevated miR-20a-5p, which activated downstream EMT signaling and promoted cell proliferation, migration, and invasion.

CONCLUSIONS

Since RUNX3 is involved in EMT in HCC, as proven by previous research, our findings provide further evidence for a novel regulatory pathway comprising the miR-20a/RUNX3/EMT axis that upregulates EMT signaling and enhances the migration of HCC cells.