Silencing microRNA-221/222 cluster suppresses glioblastoma angiogenesis by suppressor of cytokine signaling-3-dependent JAK/STAT pathway

Deciphering JAK/STAT signaling pathway: A multifaceted approach to tumorigenesis, progression and therapeutic interventions

The Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway, essential for cellular communication, orchestrates a myriad of physiological and pathological processes. Recently, the intricate association between the pathway's dysregulation and the progression of malignant tumors has garnered increasing attention. Nevertheless, there is no systematic summary detailing the anticancer effects of molecules targeting the JAK/STAT pathway in the context of tumor progression. This review offers a comprehensive overview of pharmaceutical agents targeting the JAK/STAT pathway, encompassing phytochemicals, synthetic drugs, and biomolecules. These agents can manifest their anticancer effects through various mechanisms, including inhibiting proliferation, inducing apoptosis, suppressing tumor metastasis, and angiogenesis. Notably, we emphasize the clinical challenges of drug resistance while spotlighting the potential of integrating JAK/STAT inhibitors with other therapies as a transformative approach in cancer treatment. Moreover, this review delves into the avant-garde strategy of employing nanocarriers to enhance the solubility and bioavailability of anticancer drugs, significantly amplifying their therapeutic prowess. Through this academic exploration of the multifaceted roles of the JAK/STAT pathway in the cancer milieu, we aim to sketch a visionary trajectory for future oncological interventions.

The roles of lncRNAs and miRNAs in pancreatic cancer: a focus on cancer development and progression and their roles as potential biomarkers

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is among the most penetrative malignancies affecting humans, with mounting incidence prevalence worldwide. This cancer is usually not diagnosed in the early stages. There is also no effective therapy against PDAC, and most patients have chemo-resistance. The combination of these factors causes PDAC to have a poor prognosis, and often patients do not live longer than six months. Because of the failure of conventional therapies, the identification of key biomarkers is crucial in the early diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of pancreatic cancer. 65% of the human genome encodes ncRNAs. There are different types of ncRNAs that are classified based on their sequence lengths and functions. They play a vital role in replication, transcription, translation, and epigenetic regulation. They also participate in some cellular processes, such as proliferation, differentiation, metabolism, and apoptosis. The roles of ncRNAs as tumor suppressors or oncogenes in the growth of tumors in a variety of tissues, including the pancreas, have been demonstrated in several studies. This study discusses the key roles of some lncRNAs and miRNAs in the growth and advancement of pancreatic carcinoma. Because they are involved not only in the premature identification, chemo-resistance and prognostication, also their roles as potential biomarkers for better management of PDAC patients.

The oncogenic mechanisms of the Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription pathway in digestive tract tumors

Digestive tract tumors are heterogeneous and involve the dysregulation of multiple signaling pathways. The Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK-STAT) pathway plays a notable role in the oncogenesis of digestive tract tumors. Typically activated by pro-inflammatory cytokines, it regulates important biological processes, such as cell growth, differentiation, apoptosis, immune responses, and inflammation. The aberrant activation of this pathway manifests in different forms, including mutations in JAKs, overexpression of cytokine receptors, and sustained STAT activation, and contributes to promoting the malignant characteristics of cancer cells, including uncontrolled proliferation, resistance to apoptosis, enhanced invasion and metastasis, angiogenesis, acquisition of stem-like properties, and drug resistance. Numerous studies have shown that aberrant activation of the JAK-STAT pathway is closely related to the development and progression of digestive tract tumors, contributing to tumor survival, angiogenesis, changes in the tumor microenvironment, and even immune escape processes. In addition, this signaling pathway also affects the sensitivity of digestive tract tumors to chemotherapy and targeted therapy. Therefore, it is crucial to comprehensively understand the oncogenic mechanisms underlying the JAK-STAT pathway in order to develop effective therapeutic strategies against digestive tract tumors. Currently, several JAK-STAT inhibitors are undergoing clinical and preclinical trials as potential treatments for various human diseases. However, further investigation is required to determine the role of this pathway, as well as the effectiveness and safety of its inhibitors, especially in the context of digestive tract tumors. In this review, we provide an overview of the structure, classic activation, and negative regulation of the JAK-STAT pathway. Furthermore, we discuss the pathogenic mechanisms of JAK-STAT signaling in different digestive tract tumors, with the aim of identifying potential novel therapeutic targets. Video Abstract.

MiR-221-3p/222-3p Cluster Expression in Human Adipose Tissue Is Related to Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes

The progression of obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D) is intricately linked with adipose tissue (AT) angiogenesis. Despite an established network of microRNAs (miRNAs) regulating AT function, the specific role of angiogenic miRNAs remains less understood. The miR-221/222 cluster has recently emerged as being associated with antiangiogenic activity. However, no studies have explored its role in human AT amidst the concurrent development of obesity and T2D. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the association between the miR-221-3p/222-3p cluster in human AT and its regulatory network with obesity and T2D. MiR-221-3p/222-3p and their target gene (TG) expression levels were quantified through qPCR in visceral (VAT) and subcutaneous (SAT) AT from patients (n = 33) categorized based on BMI as normoweight (NW) and obese (OB) and by glycemic status as normoglycemic (NG) and type 2 diabetic (T2D) subjects. In silico analyses of miR-221-3p/222-3p and their TGs were conducted to identify pertinent signaling pathways. The results of a multivariate analysis, considering the simultaneous expression of miR-221-3p and miR-222-3p as dependent variables, revealed statistically significant distinctions when accounting for variables such as tissue depot, obesity, sex, and T2D as independent factors. Furthermore, both miRNAs and their TGs exhibited differential expression patterns based on obesity severity, glycemic status, sex, and type of AT depot. Our in silico analysis indicated that miR-221-3p/222-3p cluster TGs predominantly participate in angiogenesis, WNT signaling, and apoptosis pathways. In conclusion, these findings underscore a promising avenue for future research, emphasizing the miR-221-3p/222-3p cluster and its associated regulatory networks as potential targets for addressing obesity and related metabolic disorders.

Blue light photobiomodulation induced apoptosis by increasing ROS level and regulating SOCS3 and PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathway in osteosarcoma cells

Blue light photobiomodulation (PBM) has attracted great attention in diminishing proliferation and inducing death of cancer cells recently. Osteosarcoma (OS) primarily occurring in children and adolescents, the limitations of drug resistance and limb salvage make it urgent to develop and identify new adjuvant therapeutic strategies. In this work, we attempted to research the anticancer effects and biological mechanisms of blue light PBM in human OS MG63 cells. The effects of various blue light parameters on MG63 cells indicated that suppressed cell proliferation and cell migration, induced cell apoptosis which are experimentally assessed using multiple assays including CCK, LDH, wound healing assay and Hoechst staining. Concurrently, the increases of ROS level and the inhibition of PI3K and AKT expression were identified under high-dose blue light PBM in MG63 cells. Meanwhile, SOCS3 is a major inducible anti-tumor molecule, we also found that blue light LED substantially promoted its expression. Thus, this study proposed that bule light PBM may be a hopeful therapeutic approach in OS clinical treatment in the future.

The Significant Role of microRNAs in Gliomas Angiogenesis: A Particular Focus on Molecular Mechanisms and Opportunities for Clinical Application

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding RNAs with only 20-22 nucleic acids that inhibit gene transcription and translation by binding to mRNA. MiRNAs have a diverse set of target genes and can alter most physiological processes, including cell cycle checkpoints, cell survival, and cell death mechanisms, affecting the growth, development, and invasion of various cancers, including gliomas. So optimum management of miRNA expression is essential for preserving a normal biological environment. Due to their small size, stability, and capability of specifically targeting oncogenes, miRNAs have emerged as a promising marker and new biopharmaceutical targeted therapy for glioma patients. This review focuses on the most common miRNAs associated with gliomagenesis and development by controlling glioma-determining markers such as angiogenesis. We also summarized the recent research about miRNA effects on signaling pathways, their mechanistic role and cellular targets in the development of gliomas angiogenesis. Strategies for miRNA-based therapeutic targets, as well as limitations in clinical applications, are also discussed.

Identification of a miRNA multi-targeting therapeutic strategy in glioblastoma

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a deadly and the most common primary brain tumor in adults. Due to their regulation of a high number of mRNA transcripts, microRNAs (miRNAs) are key molecules in the control of biological processes and are thereby promising therapeutic targets for GBM patients. In this regard, we recently reported miRNAs as strong modulators of GBM aggressiveness. Here, using an integrative and comprehensive analysis of the TCGA database and the transcriptome of GBM biopsies, we identified three critical and clinically relevant miRNAs for GBM, miR-17-3p, miR-222, and miR-340. In addition, we showed that the combinatorial modulation of three of these miRNAs efficiently inhibited several biological processes in patient-derived GBM cells of all these three GBM subtypes (Mesenchymal, Proneural, Classical), induced cell death, and delayed tumor growth in a mouse tumor model. Finally, in a doxycycline-inducible model, we observed a significant inhibition of GBM stem cell viability and a significant delay of orthotopic tumor growth. Collectively, our results reveal, for the first time, the potential of miR-17-3p, miR-222 and miR-340 multi-targeting as a promising therapeutic strategy for GBM patients.

miRNAs role in glioblastoma pathogenesis and targeted therapy: Signaling pathways interplay

High mortality and morbidity rates and variable clinical behavior are hallmarks of glioblastoma (GBM), the most common and aggressive primary malignant brain tumor. Patients with GBM often have a dismal outlook, even after undergoing surgery, postoperative radiation, and chemotherapy, which has fueled the search for specific targets to provide new insights into the development of contemporary therapies. The ability of microRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) to posttranscriptionally regulate the expression of various genes and silence many target genes involved in cell proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis, invasion, angiogenesis, stem cell behavior and chemo- and radiotherapy resistance makes them promising candidates as prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets or factors to advance GBM therapeutics. Hence, this review is like a crash course in GBM and how miRNAs related to GBM. Here, we will outline the miRNAs whose role in the development of GBM has been established by recent in vitro or in vivo research. Moreover, we will provide a summary of the state of knowledge regarding oncomiRs and tumor suppressor (TS) miRNAs in relation to GBM with an emphasis on their potential applications as prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Combined Treatment of Cancer Cells Using Allyl Palladium Complexes Bearing Purine-Based NHC Ligands and Molecules Targeting MicroRNAs miR-221-3p and miR-222-3p: Synergistic Effects on Apoptosis

Combined treatments employing lower concentrations of different drugs are used and studied to develop new and more effective anticancer therapeutic approaches. The combination therapy could be of great interest in the controlling of cancer. Regarding this, our research group has recently shown that peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) that target miR-221 are very effective and functional in inducing apoptosis of many tumor cells, including glioblastoma and colon cancer cells. Moreover, in a recent paper, we described a series of new palladium allyl complexes showing a strong antiproliferative activity on different tumor cell lines. The present study was aimed to analyze and validate the biological effects of the most active compounds tested, in combination with antagomiRNA molecules targeting two miRNAs, miR-221-3p and miR-222-3p. The obtained results show that a "combination therapy", produced by combining the antagomiRNAs targeting miR-221-3p, miR-222-3p and the palladium allyl complex 4d, is very effective in inducing apoptosis, supporting the concept that the combination treatment of cancer cells with antagomiRNAs targeting a specific upregulated oncomiRNAs (in this study miR-221-3p and miR-222-3p) and metal-based compounds represents a promising therapeutic strategy to increase the efficacy of the antitumor protocol, reducing side effects at the same time.

Pomegranate Peel Extract Sensitizes Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells to Ionizing Radiation, Induces Apoptosis and Inhibits MAPK, JAK/STAT3, β-Catenin/NOTCH, and SOCS3 Signaling

Tumor resistance is typically blamed for the failure of radiotherapy and chemotherapy to treat cancer in clinic patients. To improve the cytotoxicity of tumor cells using radiation in conjunction with specific tumor-selective cytotoxic drugs is crucial. Pomegranate has received overwhelmingly positive feedback as a highly nutritious food for enhancing health and treating a variety of ailments. In the present study, we aimed to examine the effects as well as mechanism of action of pomegranate peel extract (PPE) and/or γ-radiation (6-Gy) on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell lines HepG2. The findings of this study showed that PPE treatment of HepG2 cells considerably slowed the proliferation of cancer cells, and its combination with γ-irradiation potentiated this action. As a key player in tumor proliferation, and inflammatory cascade induction, the down-regulation of STAT3 following treatment of irradiated and non-irradiated HepG2 cells with PPE as recorded in the present work resulted in reduction of tumor growth, via modulating inflammatory response manifested by (down-regulation of TLR4 expression and NFKB level), suppressing survival markers expressed by reduction of JAK, NOTCH1, β-catenin, SOCS3, and enhancing apoptosis (induction of tumor PPAR-γ and caspase-3) followed by changes in redox tone (expressed by increase in Nrf-2, SOD and catalase activities, and decrease in MDA concentration). In conclusion, PPE might possess a considerable therapeutic potential against HCC in addition to its capability to enhance response of HepG2 cells to gamma radiation.

miR-221/222 Promote Endothelial Differentiation of Adipose-Derived Stem Cells by Regulation of PTEN/PI3K/AKT/mTOR Pathway

Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) are a type of adult mesenchymal stem cell that show a repair effect on ischemic tissues owing to their capacity for endothelial differentiation. MicroRNA-221/222 (miR-221/222) has been extensively studied in endothelial cells (ECs). However, the mechanism that regulates ADSCs differentiation into ECs remains unknown. In this study, we investigated the effects of miR-221/222-overexpression/silence in ADSCs on endothelial differentiation by constructing lentiviral vectors. Differentiation capacity was assessed by measuring the expression of endothelial markers (CD31, CD34, and CD144). In addition, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) uptake and tube-like formation were performed for evaluation of functional characterization. The PTEN/PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway was investigated using western blotting to clarify the action mechanism of this gene. The revascularization of miR-221/222-transfeted ADSCs was further verified in a rat hind limb ischemia model. The results confirmed that transfection with miR-221/222 promoted the expression of endothelial markers, LDL uptake, and tube-like formation. As expected, the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway was effectively activated when ADSCs showed high expression of miR-221/222 during endothelial differentiation. Furthermore, injection of miR-221/222 transfected ADSCs significantly improved rat hindlimb ischemia, as evidenced by increased blood flow and structural integrity and reduce inflammatory infiltration. The results of this study suggest that miR-221/222 is essential for endothelial differentiation of ADSCs and provides a novel strategy for modulating vascular formation and ischemic tissue regeneration.

MIR222HG attenuates macrophage M2 polarization and allergic inflammation in allergic rhinitis by targeting the miR146a-5p/TRAF6/NF-κB axis

Although M2 macrophages are involved in the orchestration of type 2 inflammation in allergic diseases, the mechanisms underlying non-coding RNA (ncRNA)-mediated macrophage polarization in allergic rhinitis (AR) have not been systematically understood. Here, we identified long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) MIR222HG as a key regulator of macrophage polarization and revealed its role in AR. Consistent with our bioinformatic analysis of GSE165934 dataset derived from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, lncRNA-MIR222HG and murine mir222hg were downregulated in our clinical samples and animal models of AR, respectively. Mir222hg was upregulated in M1 macrophages and downregulated in M2 macrophages. The allergen-ovalbumin facilitated polarization of RAW264.7 cells to the M2 phenotype, accompanied by the downregulation of mir222hg expression in a dose-dependent manner. Mir222hg facilitates macrophage M1 polarization and reverses M2 polarization caused by ovalbumin. Furthermore, mir222hg attenuates macrophage M2 polarization and allergic inflammation in the AR mouse model. Mechanistically, a series of gain- and loss-of-function experiments and rescue experiments were performed to verify the role of mir222hg as a ceRNA sponge that adsorbed miR146a-5p, upregulated Traf6, and activated the IKK/IκB/P65 pathway. Collectively, the data highlight the remarkable role of MIR222HG in the modulation of macrophage polarization and allergic inflammation, as well as its potential role as a novel AR biomarker or therapeutic target.

Biological implications and clinical potential of invasion and migration related miRNAs in glioma

Gliomas are the most common primary malignant brain tumors and are highly aggressive. Invasion and migration are the main causes of poor prognosis and treatment resistance in gliomas. As migration and invasion occur, patient survival and prognosis decline dramatically. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding 21–23 nucleotides involved in regulating the malignant phenotype of gliomas, including migration and invasion. Numerous studies have demonstrated the mechanism and function of some miRNAs in glioma migration and invasion. However, the biological and clinical significance (including diagnosis, prognosis, and targeted therapy) of glioma migration and invasion-related miRNAs have not been systematically discussed. This paper reviews the progress of miRNAs-mediated migration and invasion studies in glioma and discusses the clinical value of migration and invasion-related miRNAs as potential biomarkers or targeted therapies for glioma. In addition, these findings are expected to translate into future directions and challenges for clinical applications. Although many biomarkers and their biological roles in glioma invasion and migration have been identified, none have been specific so far, and further exploration of clinical treatment is still in progress; therefore, we aimed to further identify specific markers that may guide clinical treatment and improve the quality of patient survival.

STAT3 Inhibitors: A Novel Insight for Anticancer Therapy of Pancreatic Cancer

The signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) is a family of intracellular cytoplasmic transcription factors involved in many biological functions in mammalian signal transduction. Among them, STAT3 is involved in cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and inflammatory responses. Despite the advances in the treatment of pancreatic cancer in the past decade, the prognosis for patients with pancreatic cancer remains poor. STAT3 has been shown to play a pro-cancer role in a variety of cancers, and inhibitors of STAT3 are used in pre-clinical and clinical studies. We reviewed the relationship between STAT3 and pancreatic cancer and the latest results on the use of STAT3 inhibitors in pancreatic cancer, with the aim of providing insights and ideas around STAT3 inhibitors for a new generation of chemotherapeutic modalities for pancreatic cancer.

Mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes as new tools for delivery of miRNAs in the treatment of cancer

Although ongoing medical research is working to find a cure for a variety of cancers, it continues to be one of the major causes of death worldwide. Chemotherapy and immunotherapy, as well as surgical intervention and radiation therapy, are critical components of cancer treatment. Most anti-cancer drugs are given systemically and distribute not just to tumor tissues but also to normal tissues, where they may cause side effects. Furthermore, because anti-cancer drugs have a low delivery efficiency, some tumors do not respond to them. As a result, tumor-targeted drug delivery is critical for improving the safety and efficacy of anti-cancer treatment. Exosomes are microscopic extracellular vesicles that cells produce to communicate with one another. MicroRNA (miRNA), long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), small interfering RNA (siRNA), DNA, protein, and lipids are among the therapeutic cargos found in exosomes. Recently, several studies have focused on miRNAs as a potential therapeutic element for the treatment of cancer. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) have been known to have angiogenic, anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. Exosomes derived from MSCs are gaining popularity as a non-cellular alternative to MSC-based therapy, as this method avoids unwanted lineage differentiation. Therefore more research have focused on transferring miRNAs to mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) and targeting miRNA-loaded exosomes to cancer cells. Here, we initially gave an overview of the characteristics and potentials of MSC as well as the use of MSC-derived exosomes in cancer therapy. Finally, we emphasized the utilization of MSC-derived exosomes for miRNA delivery in the treatment of cancer.

SOCS3 Acts as an Onco-immunological Biomarker With Value in Assessing the Tumor Microenvironment, Pathological Staging, Histological Subtypes, Therapeutic Effect, and Prognoses of Several Types of Cancer

The suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS) family contains eight members, including SOCS1–7 and CIS, and SOCS3 has been shown to inhibit cytokine signal transduction in various signaling pathways. Although several studies have currently shown the correlations between SOCS3 and several types of cancer, no pan-cancer analysis is available to date. We used various computational tools to explore the expression and pathogenic roles of SOCS3 in several types of cancer, assessing its potential role in the pathogenesis of cancer, in tumor immune infiltration, tumor progression, immune evasion, therapeutic response, and prognostic. The results showed that SOCS3 was downregulated in most The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) cancer datasets but was highly expressed in brain tumors, breast cancer, esophageal cancer, colorectal cancer, and lymphoma. High SOCS3 expression in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) and brain lower-grade glioma (LGG) were verified through immunohistochemical experiments. GEPIA and Kaplan–Meier Plotter were used, and this bioinformatics analysis showed that high SOCS3 expression was associated with a poor prognosis in the majority of cancers, including LGG and GBM. Our analysis also indicated that SOCS3 may be involved in tumor immune evasion via immune cell infiltration or T-cell exclusion across different types of cancer. In addition, SOCS3 methylation was negatively correlated with mRNA expression levels, worse prognoses, and dysfunctional T-cell phenotypes in various types of cancer. Next, different analytical methods were used to select genes related to SOCS3 gene alterations and carcinogenic characteristics, such as STAT3, SNAI1, NFKBIA, BCL10, TK1, PGS1, BIRC5, TMC8, and AFMID, and several biological functions were identified between them. We found that SOCS3 was involved in cancer development primarily through the JAK/STAT signaling pathway and cytokine receptor activity. Furthermore, SOCS3 expression levels were associated with immunotherapy or chemotherapy for numerous types of cancer. In conclusion, this study showed that SOCS3 is an immune-oncogenic molecule that may possess value as a biomarker for diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of several types of cancer in the future.

Angioregulatory role of miRNAs and exosomal miRNAs in glioblastoma pathogenesis

Glioblastoma (GB) is a highly aggressive cancer of the central nervous system, occurring in the brain or spinal cord. Many factors such as angiogenesis are associated with GB development. Angiogenesis is a procedure by which the pre-existing blood vessels create new vessels that play an essential role in health and disease, including tumors. Also, angiogenesis is one of the significant factors thought to be responsible for treatment resistance in many tumors, including GB. Hence, an improved understanding of the molecular processes underlying GB angiogenesis will pave the way for developing potential new treatments. Recently, it has been found that microRNAs (miRNAs) and exosomal miRNAs have a crucial role in inducing or inhibiting the angiogenesis process in GB development. A better knowledge of the miRNA's regulation pathway in the angiogenesis process in cancer offers unique mechanistic insight into the mechanism of tumor-associated neovascularization. Because of advancements in miRNA characterization and delivery methods, miRNAs can also be employed in clinical settings as potential biomarkers for anti-angiogenic treatment response as well as therapies targeting tumor angiogenesis. The recent finding and insights about miRNAs' angioregulatory role and exosomal miRNAs in GB are provided throughout the review. Also, we discuss the new concept of miRNAs-based therapies for GB in the future.

miR-221/222 as biomarkers and targets for therapeutic intervention on cancer and other diseases: A systematic review

Among deregulated microRNAs (miRs) in human malignancies, miR-221 has been widely investigated for its oncogenic role and as a promising biomarker. Moreover, recent evidence suggests miR-221 as a fine-tuner of chronic liver injury and inflammation-related events. Available information also supports the potential of miR-221 silencing as promising therapeutic intervention. In this systematic review, we selected papers from the principal databases (PubMed, MedLine, Medscape, ASCO, ESMO) between January 2012 and December 2020, using the keywords “miR-221” and the specific keywords related to the most important hematologic and solid malignancies, and some non-malignant diseases, to define and characterize deregulated miR-221 as a valuable therapeutic target in the modern vision of molecular medicine. We found a major role of miR-221 in this view.

Comprehensive analysis of PTEN-related ceRNA network revealing the key pathways WDFY3-AS2 - miR-21-5p/miR-221-3p/miR-222-3p - TIMP3 as potential biomarker in tumorigenesis and prognosis of kidney renal clear cell carcinoma

Kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) is one of the most common malignancies, and there is still a lack of effective biomarkers for early detection and prognostic prediction. In here, we compared the characteristics of RNA sequencing data sets of KIRC samples based on the tumor suppressor gene phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN). The 1016 long noncoding RNAs, 48 microRNAs (miRNAs), and 2104 messenger RNAs associated with PTEN were identified and these genes were differentially expressed between tumor and paracancerous tissues. The most relevant pathway was found to be WDFY3-AS2 - miR-21-5p/miR-221-3p/miR-222-3p - TIMP3 according to the rules of competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) regulation. WDFY3-AS2 and TIMP3 expression were positively correlated and reduced in KIRC samples, while miR-21-5p, miR-221-3p, and miR-222-3p were relatively highly expressed. The relatively low expression of WDFY3-AS2 and TIMP3 in KIRC were associated with poor prognosis in KIRC patients, while higher expression of miR-21-5p, miR-221-3p, and miR-222-3p predicted reduced survival (p < 0.05). Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that lower expression of WDFY3-AS2 and TIMP3 was significantly related to tumor grade, tumor size, lymph node metastasis, distant metastasis, and TNM stage. The expression of TIMP3 in KIRC tissues was also verified by immunohistochemistry, and the results were consistent with our analytical data. In summary, this study constructed a new model with clinical predictive value and identified the WDFY3-AS2/TIMP3 pathway that was closely associated with the prognosis of KIRC, which could serve as a promising biomarker for the diagnosis and treatment of KIRC.

Adipocyte-Specific Inhibition of Mir221/222 Ameliorates Diet-Induced Obesity Through Targeting Ddit4

MicroRNAs expressed in adipocytes are involved in transcriptional regulation of target mRNAs in obesity, but miRNAs critically involved in this process is not well characterized. Here, we identified upregulation of miR-221-3p and miR-222-3p in the white adipose tissues in C57BL/6 mice fed with high fat-high sucrose (HFHS) chow by RNA sequencing. Mir221 and Mir222 are paralogous genes and share the common seed sequence and Mir221/222AdipoKO mice fed with HFHS chow demonstrated resistance to the development of obesity compared with Mir221/222flox/y . Ddit4 is a direct target of Mir221 and Mir222, and the upregulation of Ddit4 in Mir221/222AdipoKO was associated with the suppression of TSC2 (tuberous sclerosis complex 2)/mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1)/S6K (ribosomal protein S6 kinase) pathway. The overexpression of miR-222-3p linked to enhanced adipogenesis, and it may be a potential candidate for miRNA-based therapy.

SOCS proteins and their roles in the development of glioblastoma

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common type of primary brain tumor in adults. GBM is characterized by a high degree of malignancy and aggressiveness, as well as high morbidity and mortality rates. GBM is currently treatable via surgical resection, chemotherapy and radiotherapy, but the prognosis of patients with GBM is poor. The suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS) protein family comprises eight members, including SOCS1-SOCS7 and cytokine-inducible SH2-containing protein. SOCS proteins regulate the biogenesis of GBM via the JAK/STAT and NF-κB signaling pathways. Driven by NF-κB, the expression of SOCS proteins can serve as a negative regulator of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway and exerts a potential inhibitory effect on GBM. In GBM, E3 ubiquitin ligase is involved in the regulation of cellular functions, such as the receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) survival signal, in which SOCS proteins negatively regulate RTK signaling, and kinase overexpression or mutation can lead to the development of malignancies. Moreover, SOCS proteins affect the proliferation and differentiation of GBM cells by regulating the tumor microenvironment. SOCS proteins also serve specific roles in GBM of different grades and different isocitrate dehydrogenase mutation status. The aim of the present review was to describe the biogenesis and function of the SOCS protein family, the roles of SOCS proteins in the microenvironment of GBM, as well as the role of this protein family and E3 ubiquitin ligases in GBM. Furthermore, the role of SOCS proteins as diagnostic and prognostic markers in GBM and their potential role as GBM therapeutics were explored.

miR-221/222 suppression induced by activation of the cAMP/PKA/CREB1 pathway is required for cAMP-induced bidirectional differentiation of glioma cells

Factors that increase cAMP levels can induce lineage-specific differentiation of glioma cells into astrocyte-like cells. However, the differentiation pattern and underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we find that cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA)/cAMP responsive element binding protein 1 (CREB1)-induced miR-221/222 suppression contributes to the neuron-like differentiation of gliomas. cAMP agonists selectively induced neuron- and astrocyte-like but not oligodendrocyte-like differentiation of C6 glioma cells. PKA inhibitors and CREB1 knockout blocked neuron-like differentiation of glioma cells. cAMP inhibited miR-221/222 in a PKA/CREB1-dependent manner. Importantly, both in vitro and in vivo assays demonstrated that transcriptional suppression of miR-221/222 is required for neuronal differentiation of glioma cells. Our findings suggest that increasing cAMP levels can induce bidirectional differentiation of glioma cells. Furthermore, the miR-221/222 cluster acts as an epigenetic brake during glioma differentiation.

Emerging roles of suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 in human cancers

As a member of the suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS) family, SOCS3 is a cytokine-inducible protein that inhibits cytokine signaling in a variety of signaling pathways. Increasing evidence shows that SOCS3 regulates tumor development through multiple pathological and physiological processes. It is worth mentioning that SOCS3 negatively regulates JAK/STAT signaling by binding to JAK/cytokine receptors or phosphorylation docking sites on STAT receptors, thus preventing tumor cell proliferation and inhibiting tumor cell invasion and metastasis. The kinase inhibitory region KIR of SOCS3 is the key to JAK inhibition. In addition, SOCS3 may also regulate tumor progression through other molecules or signaling pathways, such as microRNAs (miRNAs), IL-6 and NF-κB signaling pathway. MicroRNAs inhibit SOCS3 expression by binding to the 3' untranslated region of SOCS3 mRNA, thus regulating tumor development processes, including tumor cell proliferation, invasion, metastasis, differentiation, cell cycle and apoptosis, as well as tumor metastasis and chemotherapy resistance. On the whole, SOCS3 acts as an inhibitor of the majority of tumors through various pathways. In the present review, the role of SOCS3 in multitudinous tumors was comprehensively summarized, the molecular mechanisms and modes of action of SOCS3 in tumors were discussed, and the association between SOCS3 expression and the clinical characteristics of patients with cancer were emphasized.

COL4A1 as a novel oncogene associated with the clinical characteristics of malignancy predicts poor prognosis in glioma

Studies have indicated that collagen α-1 (IV) chain (COL4A1) has an indispensable regulatory role in the complex pathological mechanisms of numerous types of malignant tumor. However, its role in the development of glioma has remained elusive. Therefore, the present study sought to determine the association between the expression levels of COL4A1 and the clinical characteristics of gliomas by analyzing large samples. First, analysis of thousands of glioma tissue samples collected from the Gene expression profiling interactive analysis, Gene Expression Omnibus database, the Ivy glioblastoma atlas, The Human Protein Atlas, Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas and The Cancer Genome Atlas. In addition, glioma tissues and normal brain tissues from patients with glioma and epilepsy undergoing surgical resection were collected. These samples, which were subjected to a variety of different detection techniques (including sequencing data, chip data, reverse transcription-quantitative PCR, cell lines and tissue samples, in situ hybridization and immunology) revealed that COL4A1 expression was not only increased at the mRNA level but also at the protein level as compared with that in normal brain tissue. Furthermore, Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that COL4A1 expression was associated with reduced overall survival of patients, particularly those with World Health Organization grade III glioma. Receiver operating characteristic analysis suggested that COL4A1 had a moderate diagnostic value for glioma. In addition, the Mann-Whitney U-test or Kruskal-Wallis test indicated that the expression levels of COL4A1 were positively associated with the histological type and historical grade of the tumor, patient age, ‘Primary, Recurrent, Secondary’ type and the chemotherapy status, and negatively associated with isocitrate dehydrogenase mutation and 1p19q co-deletion (P<0.001). Gene-set enrichment analysis indicated that overexpression of COL4A1 promoted cancer-associated pathways, such as the JAK/STAT signaling pathway and cell cycle regulation. Finally, an MTT assay, immunohistochemical analysis of the cell cycle regulator KI67 and a wound-healing assay further confirmed that knockdown of COL4A1 inhibited the proliferation and migration ability of glioma cells. In conclusion, COL4A1, as a novel oncogene, is a marker for poor prognosis in patients with glioma. The present study expanded the understanding of the pathogenesis of glioma and identified COL4A1 as a potential target for the diagnosis and treatment of gliomas.

Immune Modulatory Short Noncoding RNAs Targeting the Glioblastoma Microenvironment

Glioblastomas are heterogeneous and have a poor prognosis. Glioblastoma cells interact with their neighbors to form a tumor-permissive and immunosuppressive microenvironment. Short noncoding RNAs are relevant mediators of the dynamic crosstalk among cancer, stromal, and immune cells in establishing the glioblastoma microenvironment. In addition to the ease of combinatorial strategies that are capable of multimodal modulation for both reversing immune suppression and enhancing antitumor immunity, their small size provides an opportunity to overcome the limitations of blood-brain-barrier (BBB) permeability. To enhance glioblastoma delivery, these RNAs have been conjugated with various molecules or packed within delivery vehicles for enhanced tissue-specific delivery and increased payload. Here, we focus on the role of RNA therapeutics by appraising which types of nucleotides are most effective in immune modulation, lead therapeutic candidates, and clarify how to optimize delivery of the therapeutic RNAs and their conjugates specifically to the glioblastoma microenvironment.

Noncoding RNAs involved in the STAT3 pathway in glioma

Glioma is the most common malignant primary brain tumour in adults. Despite improvements in neurosurgery and radiotherapy, the prognosis of glioma patients remains poor. One of the main limitations is that there are no proper clinical therapeutic targets for glioma. Therefore, it is crucial to find one or more effective targets. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is a member of the STAT family of genes. Abnormal expression of STAT3 is involved in the process of cell proliferation, migration, invasion, immunosuppression, angiogenesis, dryness maintenance, and resistance to radiotherapy and chemotherapy in glioma. Therefore, STAT3 has been considered an ideal therapeutic target in glioma. Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are a group of genes with limited or no protein-coding capacity that can regulate gene expression at the epigenetic, transcriptional and posttranscriptional level. In this review, we summarized the ncRNAs that are correlated with the ectopic expression of STAT3 in glioma.

Synergistic effects of the combined treatment of U251 and T98G glioma cells with an anti‑tubulin tetrahydrothieno[2,3‑c]pyridine derivative and a peptide nucleic acid targeting miR‑221‑3p

In the development of novel and more effective anti-cancer approaches, combined treatments appear to be of great interest, based on the possibility of obtaining relevant biological or therapeutic effects using lower concentrations of single drugs. Combination therapy may prove to be of utmost significance in the management of glioblastoma (GBM), a lethal malignancy that accounts for 42% of cancer cases of the central nervous system, with a median survival rate of 15 months. As regards novel therapeutic approaches, the authors have recently demonstrated that peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) that target microRNA (miRNA/miR)-221 are very active in inducing the apoptosis of glioma cells. Furthermore, in a recent study, the authors described two novel series of tubulin polymerization inhibitors based on the 4,5,6,7-tetrahydrothieno[2,3-c]pyridine and 4,5,6,7-tetrahydrobenzo[b]thiophene scaffold, which exerted a potent anti-proliferative effect on a variety of tumor cell lines. The present study aimed to verify the activity on glioblastoma cancer cell lines of one of the most active compounds tested, corresponding to 2-(3′, 4′, 5′-trimethoxyanilino)-3-cyano/alkoxycarbonyl-6-substituted-4 5,6,7-tetrahydrothiene[2,3-c] pyridine (compound 3b), used in combination with an anti-miR-221-3p PNA, already demonstrated to be able to induce high levels of apoptosis. To the best of our knowledge, the results obtained herein demonstrate for the first time a 'combination therapy' performed by the combined use of a PNA targeting miR-221 and the tetrahydrothiene[2,3-c]pyridine derivative 3b, supporting the concept that the combined treatment of GBM cells with a PNA against a specific upregulated oncomiRNA (in the present study a PNA targeting miR-221-3p was used) and anti-tubulin agents (in the present study derivative 3b was used) is an encouraging strategy which may be used to enhance the efficacy of anticancer therapies and at the same time, to reduce side-effects.

Piperlongumine inhibits the progression of osteosarcoma by downregulating the SOCS3/JAK2/STAT3 pathway via miR-30d-5p

AIMS

The present study evaluated the functions of Piperlongumine (PL) in osteosarcoma (OS) cell growth and metastasis both in vitro and in vivo.

MAIN METHODS

MTT assay was conducted to test the cytotoxic effects of PL on the human osteoblasts line HFOB1.19 and the human normal chondrocyte line C28/I2T. FITC-Annexin V and propidium iodide (PI) were used to examine cell apoptosis. The migration, invasion and relative epithelial-mesenchymal transition were examined by Transwell assay and Western blotting. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was performed to analyze the cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) mRNA expression. TargetScan database was used to predict the target of SOCS3. The binding association between miR-30d-5p and SOCS3 in U2OS and MG63 cells was evaluated by the dual-luciferase reporter assay. A xenograft model was constructed to evaluate the effect of PL on OS cell growth in vivo.

KEY FINDINGS

The results revealed that PL inhibited the growth, migration, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and promoted the apoptosis of OS cells dose-dependently. In addition, PL upregulated the protein levels of suppressor of SOCS3, while it inactivated the JAK2/STAT3 pathway, which was accompanied by a decreased level of microRNA (miR)-30d-5p. Furthermore, SOCS3was confirmed as a novel target of miR-30d-5p. Overexpression of miR-30d-5p not only led to decreased expression of SOCS3, but also dampened the antitumor effect of PL on OS.

SIGNIFICANCE

The present data demonstrated that PL inhibited the progression of OS via downregulation of the SOCS3-mediated JAK2/STAT3 pathway by inhibiting miR-30d-5p.

MicroRNAs Targeting HIF-2α, VEGFR1 and/or VEGFR2 as Potential Predictive Biomarkers for VEGFR Tyrosine Kinase and HIF-2α Inhibitors in Metastatic Clear-Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma

Metastatic clear-cell renal cell carcinoma (m-ccRCC) is characterized by increased hypoxia-induced factor (HIF)-2α and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR)-dependent angiogenesis through loss of function of the von Hippel-Lindau protein. VEGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (VEGFR-TKIs) are a cornerstone of m-ccRCC treatment, and new treatments targeting HIF-2α are currently under investigation. However, predictive biomarkers for these treatments are lacking. In this retrospective cohort study including 109 patients treated with VEGFR-targeted therapies as first-line treatment, we aimed to study the possible predictive function of microRNAs (miRNAs) targeting HIF-2α, VEGFR1 and VEGFR2. We selected miRNAs inversely correlated with HIF-2α, VEGFR1 and/or VEGFR2 expression and with predicted target sites in the respective genes and subsequently studied their impact on therapeutic outcomes. We identified four miRNAs (miR-34c-5p, miR-221-3p, miR-222-3p and miR-3529-3p) inversely correlated with VEGFR1 and/or VEGFR2 expression and associated with tumor shrinkage and progression-free survival (PFS) upon treatment with VEGFR-TKIs, highlighting the potential predictive value of these miRNAs. Moreover, we identified three miRNAs (miR-185-5p, miR-223-3p and miR-3529-3p) inversely correlated with HIF-2α expression and associated with tumor shrinkage and PFS upon treatment with VEGFR-TKIs. These three miRNAs can have a predictive value not only upon treatment with VEGFR-TKIs but possibly also upon treatment with the upcoming HIF-2α inhibitor belzutifan.

miR-221-3p and miR-222-3p regulate the SOCS3/STAT3 signaling pathway to downregulate the expression of NIS and reduce radiosensitivity in thyroid cancer

The expression levels of microRNA (miR)-221-3p and miR-222-3p in thyroid cancer have been found to be upregulated compared with those in normal tissues. The present study aimed to determine the effects and potential underlying mechanisms of miR-221-3p and miR-222-3p on the regulation of radioactive iodine (131I) uptake and radiosensitivity of thyroid cancer cells. The potential regulatory target genes of miR-221-3p and miR-222-3p were predicted by bioinformatics analysis, and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to verify miR-221-3p, miR-222-3p and target gene expression levels in thyroid cancer tissues and cell lines. Overexpression of miR-221-3p or miR-222-3p in cell models was performed using lentivirus infection. Knockdown of miR-221-3p and miR-222-3p in cells was achieved using oligonucleotide inhibitor transfection. Western blotting was used to analyze the expression levels of target proteins. In addition, the effects of miR-221-3p and miR-222-3p on the radiosensitivity of thyroid cancer cells were verified using a colony formation assay. The results of the present study revealed that the expression levels of miR-221-3p and miR-222-3p were significantly upregulated, while the expression levels of suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) were downregulated in thyroid cancer tissues. Furthermore, miR-221-3p and miR-222-3p overexpression downregulated the expression levels of SOCS3, E-cadherin and solute carrier family 5 member 5 (NIS), and upregulated the expression levels of phosphorylated STAT3 and vimentin. Following the overexpression of miR-221-3p or miR-222-3p in the FTC133 and TPC1 cell lines, their radiosensitivity was suppressed. In conclusion, the findings of the present study suggested that miR-221-3p and miR-222-3p may downregulate the expression levels of NIS and promote radioresistance. The potential mechanism was hypothesized to be associated with the miR-221-3p and miR-222-3p targeting of the SOCS3 gene, which may subsequently activate the STAT3 signaling pathway.

Prognostic Value of microRNA-221/2 and 17-92 Families in Primary Glioblastoma Patients Treated with Postoperative Radiotherapy

MicroRNAs (miRs) are non-coding master regulators of transcriptome that could act as tumor suppressors (TSs) or oncogenes (oncomiRs). We aimed to systematically investigate the relevance of miRs as prognostic biomarkers in primary glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) treated with postoperative radio(chemo)therapy (PORT). For hypothesis generation, tumor miR expression by Agilent 8x15K human microRNA microarrays and survival data from 482 GBM patients of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA cohort) were analyzed using Cox-PH models. Expression of candidate miRs with prognostic relevance (miR-221/222; miR-17-5p, miR-18a, miR-19b) was validated by qRT-PCR using Taqman technology on an independent validation cohort of GBM patients (n = 109) treated at Heidelberg University Hospital (HD cohort). In TCGA, 50 miRs showed significant association with survival. Among the top ranked prognostic miRs were members of the two miR families miR-221/222 and miR-17-92. Loss of miR-221/222 was correlated with improved prognosis in both cohorts (TCGA, HD) and was an independent prognostic marker in a multivariate analysis considering demographic characteristics (age, sex, Karnofsky performance index (KPI)), molecular markers (O-6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) methylation, IDH mutation status) and PORT as co-variables. The prognostic value of miR-17-92 family members was ambiguous and in part contradictory by direct comparison of the two cohorts, thus warranting further validation in larger prospective trials.

Prestroke Statins Improve Prognosis of Atrial Fibrillation-Associated Stroke through Increasing Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling-3 Levels

BACKGROUND

Cerebral infarction associated with atrial fibrillation (AF) has relatively higher mortality and morbidity rates than other types of stroke. Statins are being commonly prescribed to patients with stoke. However, the use of statins in AF-related stroke, especially prestroke, has not been well studied. This study aimed to investigate whether the use of prestroke statins could improve clinical outcomes in patients with AF-related acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and its mechanism.

METHODS

This prospective study enrolled 453 AF-associated AIS patients from 4 medical centers and divided them into 2 groups based on the statin use before the stroke episode. All patients received comprehensive clinical examinations including 72-h Holter electrocardiogram monitoring and were followed up for 3 months. Plasma suppressor of cytokine signaling-3 (SOCS-3) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) levels were measured by ELISA on admission and days 3 and 7 after enrollment. The endpoints were death, major disability (modified Rankin Scale score ≥3), and composite outcome (death/major disability) at 3 months after the AIS episode.

RESULTS

Plasma SOCS-3 levels were significantly increased and MMP-9 levels decreased in patients in the prestroke statin group on hospital admission and days 3 and 7 after enrollment (p < 0.001). Furthermore, our data suggested that baseline plasma SOCS-3 levels were associated with increased risk of 3-month mortality (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 1.012; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.006-1.018; p < 0.001) and major disability (adjusted OR, 1.013; 95% CI, 1.007-1.02; p < 0.001). Similarly, baseline plasma MMP-9 levels were also associated with increased risk of 3-month mortality (adjusted OR, 1.037; 95% CI, 1.022-1.053; p < 0.001) and major disability (adjusted OR, 1.038; 95% CI, 1.022-1.55; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Our data suggested that the prestroke use of statins improved the clinical outcomes in AIS patients with AF by upregulating the level of SOCS-3 and reducing the plasma MMP-9 level.

The Role and Therapeutic Targeting of JAK/STAT Signaling in Glioblastoma

Glioblastoma remains one of the deadliest and treatment-refractory human malignancies in large part due to its diffusely infiltrative nature, molecular heterogeneity, and capacity for immune escape. The Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling pathway contributes substantively to a wide variety of protumorigenic functions, including proliferation, anti-apoptosis, angiogenesis, stem cell maintenance, and immune suppression. We review the current state of knowledge regarding the biological role of JAK/STAT signaling in glioblastoma, therapeutic strategies, and future directions for the field.

miRNA signature in glioblastoma: Potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are transcripts with sizes of about 22 nucleotides, which are produced through a multistep process in the nucleus and cytoplasm. These transcripts modulate the expression of their target genes through binding with certain target regions, particularly 3' suntranslated regions. They are involved in the pathogenesis of several kinds of cancers, such as glioblastoma. Several miRNAs, including miR-10b, miR-21, miR-17-92-cluster, and miR-93, have been up-regulated in glioblastoma cell lines and clinical samples. On the other hand, expression of miR-7, miR-29b, miR-32, miR-34, miR-181 family members, and a number of other miRNAs have been decreased in this type of cancer. In the current review, we explain the role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of glioblastoma through providing a summary of studies that reported dysregulation of these epigenetic effectors in this kind of brain cancer.

Prognostic Role of MicroRNA 222 in Patients with Glioma: A Meta-analysis

Background

Several studies have focused on the prognostic role of microRNA 222 in glioma. But different conclusions were drawn by these studies. We aimed to systematically evaluate the role of microRNA 222 in glioma by conducting a meta-analysis.

Methods

A systematic literature search until January 2020 was conducted in Web of Science, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, PubMed, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure. The general characteristics and relevant data of nine articles were extracted. Hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were applied to evaluate the prognostic role of microRNA 222 in glioma. The primary outcomes were overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS).

Results

Nine articles (11 data sets) with 1564 patients were included. We systematically evaluated the role of microRNA 222 for OS and DFS in glioma patients (HR for OS = 1.72; 95% CI, 1.31-2.26; p = 0.001; HR for DFS = 1.02; 95% CI, 0.86-1.22; p = 0.032). Subgroup analyses were performed according to the sources of patients, the types of the samples, the stages of the tumors, the methods for detecting the microRNA 222, and the sample size. No significant publication bias was found.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our study provided evidence that a high expression of microRNA 222 was related to worse overall survival in glioma patients. However, given the limited study number, more high-quality studies are warranted in the future.

Role of VHL-JAK-STAT signaling pathway in central nervous system hemangioblastoma associated with von Hippel-Lindau disease

INTRODUCTION

Central nervous system hemangioblastoma is a benign tumor associated with or without von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease which is an autosomal dominant hereditary disease that results from a germline mutation in the VHL gene. A main axis of signaling pathways in central nervous system hemangioblastoma is VHL-HIF signaling pathway. Here, we propose an alternative VHL-JAK-STAT signaling pathway in hemangioblastoma and discuss the role.

METHODS

Using MACS method, Scl⁺ hemangioblast-like cells were isolated from multipotent nestin-expressing stem cells. Then, ubiquitination of JAK2 in those cells and immunoprecipitation between JAK2 and VHL were examined. Then, expressions of JAK2 and STAT3 in those cells and expressions of VHL-associated hemangioblastoma tissues were examined. In addition, the VHL genes of patients bearing hemangioblastoma were analyzed.

RESULTS

JAK2 and STAT3 in Scl⁺ hemangioblast-like cells were ubiquitinated after VHL- expression vector was transferred to those cells. Expressions of JAK2 and STAT3 in those cells were well recognized before the transfer, but those disappeared after the transfer. Expressions of both JAK2 and STAT3 in hemangioblastoma tissues were well shown. The VHL gene analysis revealed that patients bearing hemangioblastoma carried missense mutations in 5, small deletions in 2, large deletions in 4, and nonsense mutation in 1 CONCLUSIONS: VHL-JAK-STAT signaling pathway might play an important role in proliferation, angiogenesis, and maintenance of stem-cell-nature in hemangioblastoma as an alternative signaling pathway to supplement VHL-HIF signaling pathway.

MiR-30a-5p promotes cholangiocarcinoma cell proliferation through targeting SOCS3

Background: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in the occurrence and development of cancers. In this project, we aimed to explore the role and molecular mechanism of mir-30a-5p in cholangiocarcinoma (CCA).

Materials and Methods: The expression profile and clinical significance of miR-30a-5p in CCA patients were investigated in 31 ICC and 52 ECC patients respectively. The role and mechanism of miR-30a-5p in CCA cells were investigated by up-regulating and inhibiting miR-30a-5p expression in vitro functional study.

Results: The expression of miR-30a-5p was increased in both CCA tissues and cells. The inhibition of miR-30a-5p decreased cell proliferation and induced cell apoptosis while overexpression of miR-30a-5p achieved the opposite effect. Furthermore, SOCS3 was down-regulated in ICC and ECC tissues and negatively regulated by miR-30a-5p. Dual-luciferase reporter assay revealed that co-transfection of miR-30a-5p significantly inhibited the activity of firefly luciferase reporter carrying the wild-type 3′UTR of SOCS3. The inhibition of SOCS3 could largely rescue the inhibitory effect of miR-30a-5p inhibition on CCA cells proliferation. In clinical, up-regulated miR-30a-5p expression was correlated with large tumor size in both ICC and ECC cohorts.

Conclusions: miR-30a-5p promoted CCA cells proliferation through targeting SOCS3. These findings suggested that miR-30a-5p could be a potential therapeutic target.

Corneal neovascularization is inhibited with nucleolin-binding aptamer, AS1411

Corneal neovascularization (CNV) is a common sight-threatening pathology that can be induced by a variety of inflammatory and angiogenic stimuli. Current CNV treatments include anti-inflammatory drugs and antibody-based inhibitors of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). However, these are not always effective and novel therapeutic approaches are needed. Previous work has indicated a role for nucleolin (NCL) in VEGF-mediated neoangiogenesis in a suture-induced CNV model. The major goal for this current study is to test the effect of AS1411, a NCL-binding DNA aptamer that has reached human clinical trials, on neovascularization in a murine model of VEGF-mediated CNV. Our results show that topical administration of AS1411 can significantly inhibit corneal neovascularization in this model. Mechanistic studies indicate that AS1411 reduces the VEGF-stimulated proliferation, migration, and tube formation of primary cells obtained from human limbus stroma (HLSC). AS1411 treatment also significantly reduced VEGF-stimulated induction of miR-21 and miR-221 in HLSC, suggesting a role for these pro-angiogenic miRNAs in mediating the effects of AS1411 in this system. In sum, this new research further supports a role for NCL in the molecular etiology of CNV and identifies AS1411 as a potential anti-angiogenic CNV treatment that works by a novel mechanism of action.

LINC00167 Regulates RPE Differentiation by Targeting the miR-203a-3p/SOCS3 Axis

Increasing evidence has indicated that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play significant roles in various diseases; however, their roles in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) remain unclear. Dedifferentiation and dysfunction of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells have been shown to contribute to AMD etiology in several studies. Herein, we found that lncRNA LINC00167 was downregulated in RPE-choroid samples of AMD patients and dysfunctional RPE cells, and it was consistently upregulated along with RPE differentiation. In vitro study indicated that reduced endogenous LINC00167 expression resulted in RPE dedifferentiation, which was typified by attenuated expression of RPE markers, reduced vascular endothelial growth factor A secretion, accumulation of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species, and interrupted phagocytic ability. Mechanistically, LINC00167 functioned as a sponge for microRNA miR-203a-3p to restore the expression of the suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3), which further inhibited the Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) signaling pathway. Taken together, our study demonstrated that LINC00167 showed a protective role in AMD by maintaining RPE differentiation through the LINC00167/miR-203a-3p/SOCS3 axis and might be a potential therapeutic target for AMD.

The regulatory effect of microRNA-21a-3p on the promotion of telocyte angiogenesis mediated by PI3K (p110α)/AKT/mTOR in LPS induced mice ARDS

Background

Telocytes (TCs) are newly identified interstitial cells that participate in tissue protection and repair. The present study investigated the mechanisms underlying the protective effect of TCs in a mouse model of respiratory distress.

Methods

The mouse model of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) was established by intratracheal instillation of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). After instillation of TCs culture medium, lung injury was assessed, and angiogenesis markers, including CD31 and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), were detected by immunofluorescence. Bioinformatics analysis was used to screen significantly differentially expressed microRNAs (miRNAs) in cultured TCs stimulated with LPS, and the regulation of downstream angiogenesis genes by these miRNAs was analysed and verified. PI3K subunits and pathways were evaluated by using a PI3K p110α inhibitor to study the involved mechanisms.

Results

In ARDS mice, instillation of TCs culture medium ameliorated LPS-induced inflammation and lung injury and increased the protein levels of CD31 and eNOS in the injured lungs. A total of 7 miRNAs and 1899 mRNAs were differentially regulated in TCs stimulated with LPS. Functional prediction analysis showed that the differentially expressed mRNAs were enriched in angiogenesis-related processes, which were highly correlated with miR-21a-3p. Culture medium from TCs with miR-21a-3p inhibition failed to promote angiogenesis in mouse models of LPS-induced ARDS. In cultured TCs, LPS stimulation upregulated the expression of miR-21a-3p, which further targeted the transcription factor E2F8 and decreased Notch2 protein expression. TCs culture medium enhanced hemangioendothelioma endothelial cells (EOMA cells) proliferation, which was blocked by the miR-21a-3p inhibitor. The PI3K p110α inhibitor decreased vascular endothelial growth factor levels in LPS-stimulated TCs and reversed the enhancing effect of TCs culture medium on EOMA cells proliferation.

Conclusions

TCs exerted protective effects under inflammatory conditions by promoting angiogenesis via miR-21a-3p. The PI3K p110α subunit and transcriptional factor E2F8 could be involved in this process.

Insights into the Regulation of Tumor Angiogenesis by Micro-RNAs

One of the hallmarks of cancer is angiogenesis, a series of events leading to the formation of the abnormal vascular network required for tumor growth, development, progression, and metastasis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short, single-stranded, non-coding RNAs whose functions include modulation of the expression of pro- and anti-angiogenic factors and regulation of the function of vascular endothelial cells. Vascular-associated microRNAs can be either pro- or anti-angiogenic. In cancer, miRNA expression levels are deregulated and typically vary during tumor progression. Experimental data indicate that the tumor phenotype can be modified by targeting miRNA expression. Based on these observations, miRNAs may be promising targets for the development of novel anti-angiogenic therapies. This review discusses the role of various miRNAs and their targets in tumor angiogenesis, describes the strategies and challenges of miRNA-based anti-angiogenic therapies and explores the potential use of miRNAs as biomarkers for anti-angiogenic therapy response.

Identification of Secreted Phosphoprotein 1 (SPP1) as a Prognostic Factor in Lower-Grade Gliomas

OBJECTIVE

Secreted phosphoprotein 1 (SPP1) is an important extracellular glycoprotein that is associated with immune regulation, tumorigenesis, and cell signaling. However, the prognostic value of SPP1 in patients with glioma has not yet been clarified, especially in lower-grade gliomas. The objective of this study is to evaluate the prognostic merit of SPP1 in lower-grade gliomas.

METHODS

The messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of SPP1 in about 1000 cancer cell lines was explored by using the data from the Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia database. The Oncomine database was mined to evaluate the mRNA expression of SPP1 in lower-grade glioma, glioblastoma, and normal brain tissues. The correlation between SPP1 mRNA expression and overall survival of patients with glioma from The Cancer Genome Atlas database was analyzed.

RESULTS

SPP1 mRNA expression of glioma was ranked as the eighth highest of all cancer cell lines in the Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia database. The data from the Oncomine database suggested that SPP1 expression was significantly high in glioblastoma compared with normal brain tissues but was not significantly high in lower-grade glioma compared with normal brain tissue. Analysis of the RNA-Seq data from The Cancer Genome Atlas database showed that the increased SPP1 mRNA expression in lower-grade glioma was significantly associated with poor survival outcomes in patients with lower-grade glioma. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that SPP1 might be considered as an independent prognostic factor in lower-grade gliomas.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study showed that SPP1 overexpression is related to worse overall survival in patients with lower-grade glioma. Moreover, SPP1 could be considered as an independent factor in lower-grade gliomas.