microRNA‐599 promotes apoptosis and represses proliferation and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition of papillary thyroid carcinoma cells via downregulation of Hey2‐depentent Notch signaling pathway

Berberine: Potential preventive and therapeutic strategies for human colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common digestive tract tumor, with incidences continuing to rise. Although modern medicine has extended the survival time of CRC patients, its adverse effects and the financial burden cannot be ignored. CRC is a multi-step process and can be caused by the disturbance of gut microbiome and chronic inflammation's stimulation. Additionally, the presence of precancerous lesions is also a risk factor for CRC. Consequently, scientists are increasingly interested in identifying multi-target, safe, and economical herbal medicine and natural products. This paper summarizes berberine's (BBR) regulatory mechanisms in the occurrence and development of CRC. The findings indicate that BBR regulates gut microbiome homeostasis and controls mucosal inflammation to prevent CRC. In the CRC stage, BBR inhibits cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis, blocks the cell cycle, induces cell apoptosis, regulates cell metabolism, inhibits angiogenesis, and enhances chemosensitivity. BBR plays a role in the overall management of CRC. Therefore, using BBR as an adjunct to CRC prevention and treatment could become a future trend in oncology.

miRNA/epithelial-mesenchymal axis (EMT) axis as a key player in cancer progression and metastasis: A focus on gastric and bladder cancers

The metastasis a major hallmark of tumors that its significant is not only related to the basic research, but clinical investigations have revealed that majority of cancer deaths are due to the metastasis. The metastasis of tumor cells is significantly increased due to EMT mechanism and therefore, inhibition of EMT can reduce biological behaviors of tumor cells and improve the survival rate of patients. One of the gaps related to cancer metastasis is lack of specific focus on the EMT regulation in certain types of tumor cells. The gastric and bladder cancers are considered as two main reasons of death among patients in clinical level. Herein, the role of EMT in regulation of their progression is evaluated with a focus on the function of miRNAs. The inhibition/induction of EMT in these cancers and their ability in modulation of EMT-related factors including ZEB1/2 proteins, TGF-β, Snail and cadherin proteins are discussed. Moreover, lncRNAs and circRNAs in crosstalk of miRNA/EMT regulation in these tumors are discussed and final impact on cancer metastasis and response of tumor cells to the chemotherapy is evaluated. Moreover, the impact of miRNAs transferred by exosomes in regulation of EMT in these cancers are discussed.

Hypoxic papillary thyroid carcinoma cells-secreted exosomes deliver miR-221-3p to normoxic tumor cells to elicit a pro-tumoral effect by regulating the ZFAND5

Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) has seen a worldwide expansion in incidence in the past three decades. Tumor-derived exosomes have been associated with the metastasis of cancer cells and are present within the local hypoxic tumor microenvironment, where they mediate intercellular communication by transferring molecules including microRNAs (miRNAs) between cells. Although miRNAs have been shown to serve as non-invasive biomarkers for cancer diagnosis, the role of hypoxia-induced tumor-derived exosomes in PTC progression remains unclear. Herein, we investigated the differentially expressed miRNA expression profiles from GEO datasets (GSE191117 and GSE151180) by using the DESeq package in R and identified a novel role for miR-221-3p as an oncogene in PTC development. In vivo and in vitro loss and gain assays were used to clarify the mechanism of hypoxic PTC cells derived exosomal-miR-221-3p in PTC. miR-221-3p was upregulated in human PTC plasma exosomes, tissues and cell lines. We found that hypoxic PTC cells derived exosomal-miR-221-3p promoted normoxic PTC cells proliferation, migration, invasion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in vitro, while inhibition of miR-221-3p limited PTC tumor growth in our PTC xenograft model in nude mice. We finally identified ZFAND5, to be a miR-221-3p target. Mechanistically, hypoxic PTC cell lines-derived exosomes carrying miR-221-3p promoted PTC tumorigenesis by regulating ZFAND5. Our findings further the understanding of the underlying mechanisms associated with PTC progression and identify exosomal-miR-221-3p as a potential biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of PTC patients. Our study also suggests that miR-221-3p inhibitors could be a potential treatment strategy for PTC.

Identification of SNP markers for canine mammary gland tumours in females based on a genome-wide association study - preliminary results

Introduction

The development of genetic research over recent decades has enabled the discovery of new genetic markers, such as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). This, as well as the full sequencing of the dog genome, has enabled genome-wide association studies (GWAS) to be used in the search for genetic causes of canine mammary tumours (CMTs).

Material and Methods

Genotypic data containing 175,000 SNPs, which had been obtained using the Illumina CanineHD BeadChip microarray technique, were available for analysis in this study. The data concerned 118 bitches, including 36 animals with CMT, representing various breeds and age groups. Statistical analysis was performed in two steps: quality control of genotyping data and genome-wide association analysis based on dominant, recessive, overdominant, codominant, and log-additive models with the single SNP effects.

Results

A total of 40 different SNPs significantly associated with CMT appearance were detected. Moreover, twelve SNPs showed statistical significance in more than one model. Of all the significant SNPs, two, namely BICF2G630136001 in the overdominant model and TIGRP2P107898_rs9044787 in the log-additive model, reached the 5-8 significance level. The other SNPs were significant to a 1-5 level.

Conclusion

In the group of SNPs indicated as significant in the GWAS analysis, several transpired to be localised within genes that may play an important role in CMT.

miRNA-559 and MTDH as possible diagnostic markers of psoriasis: Role of PTEN/AKT/FOXO pathway in disease pathogenesis

Psoriasis is a persistent, inflammatory, autoimmune skin disorder which can be elicited by genetic and environmental factors. Several microRNAs (miRNAs) that are abnormally expressed in psoriasis have emerged as an interesting candidate in psoriasis pathogenesis. However, the expression profile and function of miRNA-559, and its direct target metadherin (MTDH), in psoriasis need to be further illuminated. This study intended to assess miRNA-559 and MTDH levels in skin and sera of psoriatic patients and to investigate their clinical significance in an attempt for developing novel distinct tools for early diagnosis of psoriasis. Moreover, this study aimed at exploring participation of miRNA-559 in regulating MTDH/PTEN/AKT pathway in psoriasis. Expression levels of miRNA-559, AKT, FOXO1 and PTEN were measured by real-time qRT-PCR, whereas MTDH and p27 levels were assessed by ELISA in lesional, non-lesional tissues and serum of 20 psoriatic patients and 20 matching controls. Correlation study was conducted between different parameters. The diagnostic performance of miRNA-559 and MTDH in psoriasis was estimated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Expression of miRNA-559 in psoriatic patients was significantly downregulated in both lesional tissues and serum as compared to controls. Conversely, MTDH protein level showed significant increase in both tissues and serum of psoriatic patients and was inversely correlated with miRNA-559 level. Meanwhile, levels of PTEN, AKT and FOXO1 were dramatically changed in psoriatic patients compared to controls. Furthermore, serum miRNA-559 and MTDH displayed comparable diagnostic accuracy in discriminating psoriatic patients from controls. Yet, miRNA-559 demonstrated superior diagnostic performance than MTDH in psoriasis diagnosis. Together, the current findings provide the first suggestion of a new mechanism by which downregulation of miRNA-559 might induce proliferation in psoriasis through modulating PTEN/AKT/FOXO1 pathway by positive regulation of MTDH. Thus, miRNA-559 and MTDH might be proposed as promising diagnostic biomarkers of psoriasis.

LincRNA PRNCR1 activates the Wnt/β-catenin pathway to drive the deterioration of hepatocellular carcinoma via regulating miR-411-3p/ZEB1 axis

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an intractable malignant disease with high incidence rate annually. LincRNA PRNCR1 has been confirmed as a tumor supporter, while its functions in HCC remain unclear. This study aims to explore the mechanism of LincRNA PRNCR1 in hepatocellular carcinoma. The qRT-PCR was applied to the quantification of non-coding RNAs. Cell counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), Transwell assay and flow cytometry assay were applied to reflect the change in the phenotype of HCC cells. Moreover, the databases including Targetscan and Starbase and dual-luciferase reporter assay were applied to investigate the interaction of the genes. The western blot was applied to detect the abundance of proteins and the activity of the related pathways. Elevated LincRNA PRNCR1 was dramatically upregulated in HCC pathological samples and cell lines. MiR-411-3p served as a target of LincRNA PRNCR1, and decreased miR-411-3p was found in the clinical samples and cell lines. LincRNA PRNCR1 downregulation could induce the expression of miR-411-3p, and LincRNA PRNCR1 silence could impede the malignant behaviors via increasing the abundance of miR-411-3p. Zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) was confirmed as a target of miR-411-3p, which remarkably upregulated in HCC cells, and ZEB1 upregulation could significantly rescue the effect of miR-411-3p on malignant behaviors of HCC cells. Moreover, LincRNA PRNCR1 was confirmed to involve the Wnt/β-catenin pathway via regulating miR-411-3p/ZEB1 axis. This study suggested that LincRNA PRNCR1 could drive the malignant progression of HCC via regulating miR-411-3p/ZEB1 axis.

Biliatresone: progress in biliary atresia study

BACKGROUND

Biliary atresia (BA) is one of the main causes of neonatal end-stage liver disease. Without timely diagnosis and treatment, most children with BA will develop irreversible liver fibrosis within the first two months. While current theorized causes of BA include viral infection, immune disorders, and genetic defects, the comprehensive etiology is still largely unknown. Recently, biliatresone attracted much interest for its ability to induce BA in both zebrafish and mice, so we summarized the latest progress of biliatresone research in BA and tried to answer the question of whether it could provide further clues to the etiology of human BA.

DATA SOURCES

We conducted a PubMed search for any published articles related to the topic using search terms including "biliary atresia", "biliatresone", "GSH", and "HSP90". Relevant data were extracted from the original text or supplementary materials of the corresponding articles.

RESULTS

Biliatresone had shown its unique toxicity in multiple species such as zebrafish and mice, and pathogenic factors involved included glutathione (GSH), heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) and the related pathways. In combination with epidemiological evidence and recent studies on the intestinal flora in biliary atresia, a new pathogenic hypothesis that the occurrence of biliary atresia is partly due to biliatresone or its structure-like compounds depositing in human body via vegetables or/and the altered intestinal flora structure can be tentatively established.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the existing evidence, we emphasized that GSH and HSP90 are involved in the development of BA, and the maternal diet, especially higher vegetable intake of Asian women of childbearing age, accompanied by the altered intestinal flora structure, may contribute to the occurrence of biliary atresia and the higher incidence in the Asia group. However, the evidence from large sample epidemiological research is necessary.

Expression Profile and Diagnostic Significance of MicroRNAs in Papillary Thyroid Cancer

The incidence of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) has increased in recent years. To improve the diagnostic management of PTC, we propose the use of microRNAs (miRNAs) as a biomarker. Our aim in this study was to evaluate the miRNA expression pattern in PTC using NanoString technology. We identified ten miRNAs deregulated in PTC compared with reference tissue: miR-146b-5p, miR-221-3p, miR-221-5p, miR-34-5p, miR-551b-3p, miR-152-3p, miR-15a-5p, miR-31-5p, and miR-7-5p (FDR < 0.05; |fold change (FC)| ≥ 1.5). The gene ontology (GO) analysis of differentially expressed miRNA (DEM) target genes identified the predominant involvement of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance, and pathways in cancer in PTC. The highest area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) for DEMs was found for miR-146-5p (AUC = 0.770) expression, indicating possible clinical applicability in PTC diagnosis. The combination of four miRNAs (miR-152-3p, miR-221-3p, miR-551b-3p, and miR-7-5p) showed an AUC of 0.841. Validation by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reactions (qRT-PCRs) confirmed our findings. The introduction of an miRNA diagnostic panel based on the results of our study may help to improve therapeutic decision making for questionable cases. The use of miRNAs as biomarkers of PTC may become an aspect of personalized medicine.

MicroRNA-203a-3p may prevent the development of thyroid papillary carcinoma via repressing MAP3K1 and activating autophagy

Background

Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) grows slowly but has a great risk of metastasis. MicroRNAs are well known as vital tumor‐related gene regulators. In PTC, the role of miR‐203a‐3p and the underlying mechanisms remain not completely understood.

Methods

We conducted CCK8 assay, wound healing assay, transwell experiment and flow cytometry analyses to investigate the function of miRNA‐203a‐3p. The interaction of miRNA‐203a‐3p with its gene MAP3K1 was characterized by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, western blotting and luciferase assay.

Results

We found that the levels of miRNA‐203a‐3p were statistically decreased in PTC tissues. When mimics were delivered to TPC‐1 and KTC‐1 cells to upregulate miR‐203a‐3p, it was observed that cell proliferation, metastatic abilities and cell cycle process were prevented but cell apoptosis was enhanced. Furthermore, we proved the interaction between MAP3K1 and miR‐203a‐3p. Intriguingly, similar to miR‐203a‐3p mimics, siMAP3K1 showed a tumor‐suppressive effect, and this effect could be reversed when miR‐203a‐3p was simultaneously inhibited. Finally, selected autophagy‐linked proteins such as LC3 Beclin‐1 were detected and found to be increased when miR‐203a‐3p was upregulated or MAP3K1 was inhibited.

Conclusion

Overall, miR‐203a‐3p inhibits the oncogenic characteristics of TPC‐1 and KTC‐1 cells via suppressing MAP3K1 and activating autophagy. Our findings might enrich the understanding and the therapeutic strategies of PTC.

CircRNAs: promising factors for regulating angiogenesis in colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers in the world. The incidence rate of cancer is high. The overall response to traditional treatment methods such as surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy is not very satisfactory. Therefore, finding new therapeutic targets is very important for improving CRC treatment. In recent reports, the role of circRNAs in regulating colorectal angiogenesis has been gradually revealed. CircRNAs can indirectly act on angiogenesis pathways and regulate the expression of growth factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). CircRNAs are endogenous noncoding RNAs formed by pre-mRNAs through exon circular splicing. The covalent closed-loop structure makes these RNAs highly conserved and stable. CircRNAs have been found in human plasma, serum, urine, and other body fluids. Their highly conserved characteristics play important roles in many biological activities. CircRNAs can participate in the progression of many diseases by sponging miRNAs, interacting with proteins, and regulating transcription. Angiogenesis can provide nutrients and oxygen for tumour proliferation and metastasis. Angiogenesis is an important sign of the formation of the tumour microenvironment. Here, we will summarize the role of the latest circRNAs in the mechanism of angiogenesis in CRC and provide potential therapeutic targets for clinical treatment.

Downregulation of miR-599 predicts poor outcome in cervical cancer patients and promotes the progression of cervical cancer

OBJECTIVE

Cervical cancer remains a leading cause of gynecological cancer-related death. In this study, we aimed to investigate the expression pattern of miR-599 and its prognostic significance in cervical cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The RT-qPCR analysis was used to detect the expression levels of miR-599 in cervical cancer tissues and cell lines. The association between miR-599 expression and clinical characteristics of cervical cancer patients was analyzed using the χ² test. The Kaplan-Meier analysis and multivariate Cox proportional hazards model were used to explore the prognostic significance of miR-599. Then, CCK-8 assays, transwell migration, and invasion assays were used to assess the effects of miR-599 on tumor cell proliferation, migration, and invasion of cervical cancer cells, respectively.

RESULTS

miR-599 expression was significantly downregulated in cervical cancer tissues and cells compared with non-cancerous tissues and HaCaT cells, respectively. Statistical analysis revealed that miR-599 expression was associated with lymph node metastasis and FIGO stage. The miR-599 expression was an independent prognostic factor for overall survival. Functionally, overexpression of miR-599 suppressed cell proliferation, migration, and invasion of cervical cancer cells, while downregulation of miR-599 had opposite effects.

CONCLUSION

miR-599 acts as a tumor suppressor in cervical cancer that inhibiting cell proliferation, migration, and invasion of cervical cancer cells, suggesting that miR-599 may be a potential prognostic biomarker and novel targeted strategy for cervical cancer.

CCNB1, Negatively Regulated by miR-559, Promotes the Proliferation, Migration, and Invasion of Ovarian Carcinoma Cells

Cyclin B1 (CCNB1) is regarded as an oncogene in multiple tumors. This work aims to investigate the expression, function, and related mechanisms of CCNB1 in ovarian carcinoma (OC). Three microarray datasets (GSE14407, GSE18520, and GSE54388) were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and screened for differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of OC tissues and normal ovarian tissues. CCNB1 expression in OC tissues and paracancerous tissues was detected by immunohistochemistry. Kaplan-Meier plotter database was utilized to analyze the correlation between CCNB1 expression and the prognosis of OC patients. After the loss-of-function and gain-of-function cell models were established, cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), bromo-deoxyuridine (BrdU), and transwell experiments were employed to examine the proliferation, migration, and invasion of OC cells, respectively. The targeting relationship between miR-559 and CCNB1 was verified using the dual-luciferase reporter gene experiment. The expressions of CCNB1 mRNA and miR-559 were detected by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Western blot was used to quantify the protein expression of CCNB1. In addition, xenograft nude mouse models were established to examine the effects of CCNB1 on lung metastasis in vivo. CCNB1 expression was markedly increased in OC tissues and cell lines. The overall survival, progression-free survival, and post-progression survival of OC patients with high CCNB1 expression were significantly shorter. OC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion were enhanced by CCNB1 overexpression while CCNB1 knockdown led to opposite effects. MiR-559 expression was remarkably reduced in OC tissues and cell lines, and miR-559 markedly suppressed the malignant characteristics of OC cells. Besides, miR-559 directly targeted the 3' UTR of CCNB1 mRNA and reduced CCNB1 expression at both the mRNA and protein levels. Overexpression of CCNB1 accelerated lung metastasis of OC cells in vivo. CCNB1, of which expression is modulated by miR-559, facilitates proliferation, migration, and invasion of OC cells, therefore, working as a potential therapeutic target of OC. This work provides new insights into the clinical diagnosis and treatment of OC.

Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells Derived Discoidin Domain-Containing Receptor 2 (DDR2) as a Communication Mediator to Strengthen the Invasiveness and Metastasis of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma

Our current study plans to dissect the impacts and its underlying mechanisms of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) on the invasive and metastatic features of PTC. Clinical specimens from distantly metastatic PTC were collected to measure DRR2 level. After being identified via tri-lineage differentiation and flow cytometry, BMSCs were co-cultured with PTC cells followed by analysis of cell proliferation and migration by CCK-8 and Transwell assays, expression of DDR2 and EMT-associated proteins by Western blot. Eventually, shDDR2-transfected BMSCs were infused with PTC cells into the abdominal cavity of mice to establish a mouse model assess their effect on tumor growth and distant metastasis. DDR2 was upregulated in BMSCs and malignant cells located in the metastatic sites. Co-culture with BMSCs enhanced DRR2 expression in PTC cells, which was simultaneously accompanied by the escalated mesenchymalization process. In vivo experiments exhibited that co-injection with BMSCs facilitated disease progression and distant metastasis of malignancies. Instead, DDR2 knockdown significantly impeded BMSCs-triggered migrative and proliferative behaviors of malignant cells. In conclusion, DDR2 derived from BMSCs can function as a communication mediator to strengthen the invasiveness and metastasis of PTC.

Resveratrol ameliorates nutritional steatohepatitis through the mmu‑miR‑599/PXR pathway

The aim of the present study was to elucidate the effect of resveratrol on non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and the molecular basis in mice and Hepa1-6 cells, in order to verify its therapeutic effect. C57BL/6J mice were fed a methionine-choline-deficient (MCD) diet to induce steatohepatitis and were treated with resveratrol. Mouse sera were collected for biochemical analysis and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and livers were obtained for histological observation, and mmu-microRNA (miR)-599 and inflammation-related gene expression analysis. Hepa1-6 cells were treated with palmitic acid to establish a NASH cell model, and were then treated with resveratrol, or transfected with mmu-miR-599 mimic, mmu-miR-599 inhibitor or recombinant pregnane X receptor (PXR) plasmid. Subsequently, the cells were collected for mmu-miR-599 and inflammation-related gene expression analysis. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting were used to assess mmu-miR-599 expression levels, and the mRNA and protein expression levels of PXR and inflammation-related genes. The binding site of mmu-miR-599 in the PXR mRNA was verified by the luciferase activity assay. Mice fed an MCD diet for 4 weeks exhibited steatosis, focal necrosis and inflammatory infiltration in the liver. Resveratrol significantly reduced serum aminotransferase and malondialdehyde levels, and ameliorated hepatic injury. These effects were associated with reduced mmu-miR-599 expression, enhanced PXR expression, and downregulated levels of nuclear factor-κB, tumour necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing protein 3 and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3. Administration of the mmu-miR-599 mimic inhibited PXR expression in Hepa1-6 cells, whereas the mmu-miR-599 inhibitor exerted the opposite effect. A binding site for mmu-miR-599 was identified in the PXR mRNA sequence. Furthermore, overexpression of PXR inhibited the expression of inflammatory factors in Hepa1-6 cells. The present study provided evidence for the protective role of resveratrol in ameliorating steatohepatitis through regulating the mmu-miR-599/PXR pathway and the consequent suppression of related inflammatory factors. Resveratrol may serve as a potential candidate for steatohepatitis management.

E-cadherin on epithelial-mesenchymal transition in thyroid cancer

Thyroid carcinoma is a common malignant tumor of endocrine system and head and neck. Recurrence, metastasis and high malignant expression after routine treatment are serious clinical problems, so it is of great significance to explore its mechanism and find action targets. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is associated with tumor malignancy and invasion. One key change in tumour EMT is low expression of E-cadherin. Therefore, this article reviews the expression of E-cadherin in thyroid cancers (TC), discuss the potential mechanisms involved, and outline opportunities to exploit E-cadherin on regulating the occurrence of EMT as a critical factor in cancer therapeutics.

A ceRNA network mediated by LINC00475 in papillary thyroid carcinoma

Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most frequent histological type of differentiated thyroid carcinoma. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been widely reported to play a key role in human malignancies, and PTC is included. This study aimed to find out the functions and mechanism of lncRNA LINC00475 in PTC. LINC00475 was upregulated in PTC cells and was mainly located in the cytoplasm according to reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction analyses and subcellular fractionation assays. As shown by cell counting kit-8 assays, ethynyl deoxyuridine incorporation assays, wound healing assays, and transwell assays, LINC00475 knockdown suppressed cell viability, proliferation, migration, and invasion. Mechanistically, LINC00475 upregulated the expression of messenger RNA zinc finger CCHC-type containing 12 (ZCCHC12) by binding to miR-376c-3p. ZCCHC12 was a direct target gene of miR-376c-3p in PTC cells. The relationship between miR-376c-3p and LINC00475 (or ZCCHC12) in PTC cells was probed by luciferase reporter assays, RNA pulldown assays, and RNA immunoprecipitation assays. In addition, both mRNA and protein levels of ZCCHC12 were downregulated due to miR-376c-3p overexpression or LINC00475 silencing. ZCCHC12 overexpression partially reversed the suppressive effect of LINC00475 knockdown on malignant behaviors of PTC cells. In conclusion, LINC00475 promotes PTC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion by upregulating ZCCHC12 via the interaction with miR-376c-3p.

The Importance of miRNA in the Diagnosis and Prognosis of Papillary Thyroid Cancer

In recent years, the global incidence of thyroid cancer has been increasing. Despite the significant progress in the diagnostic tools applied for papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) diagnosis, commonly used methods require undergoing invasive diagnostic procedures, such as liquid biopsy, which still, in some cases, remains imprecise. In this case, novel screening and diagnostic biomarkers are still being evaluated using highly specialized techniques, which could increase PTC detection. Currently, a number of genes and proteins associated with PTC development are currently under investigation to assess their clinical utility. Accordingly, a literature search was undertaken to collect novel information about the diagnosis of and prognosis for PTC with a particular emphasis on the role of microRNA (miRNA) evaluation. The early identification of novel biomarkers is essential for facilitating appropriate therapeutic decisions. Moreover, the evaluation of plasma- and serum-derived miRNA measurements could be considered as equivalent thyroid cancer screening tools in the future. On the other hand, the PTC pathogenesis could be evaluated further with the use of miRNA evaluation, which may bring novel insights for potential medical target determination.

N1, N12-Diacetylspermine Is Elevated in Colorectal Cancer and Promotes Proliferation through the miR-559/CBS Axis in Cancer Cell Lines

N1, N12-Diacetylspermine (DiAcSpm) has been reported to be upregulated in the urine of cancer patients. Mass spectrometry has shown elevated DiAcSpm expressions in colorectal cancer (CRC) tissues. However, the diagnostic application of DiAcSpm is not available due to a lack of diagnostic grade antibodies. Also, its biological roles in CRC cells remain unexplored. In the present study, we developed an antibody that directly detected DiAcSpm expression in paraffin-embedded tissues. We also characterized its biological characteristics and underlying mechanisms. Polyclonal antibodies were generated by immunizing animals with a synthetic product of DiAcSpm. Antibody DAS AB016 showed strong sensitivity against DiAcSpm in CRC tissues. Immunohistochemistry results showed that DiAcSpm expression was significantly elevated in CRC tissues. High levels of DiAcSpm correlated with the clinical stage and Ki67 index. DiAcSpm treatment increased levels of proliferation, cell cycle progression, and cyclin D1 and cyclin E proteins in CRC cell lines, SW480 and Caco-2. DiAcSpm also upregulated ATP production in these two cell lines. RNA-sequencing showed that DiAcSpm downregulated miR-559, which was confirmed using RT-qPCR. The luciferase reporter assay, western blotting, and RT-qPCR showed that cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) was the target of miR-559. miR-559 inhibited, while CBS accelerated, CRC proliferation. In addition, CBS siRNA knockdown blocked the biological effects of DiAcSpm on CRC cells. In conclusion, DiAcSpm was found to be increased in CRC tissues using a newly developed antibody. DiAcSpm accelerated CRC proliferation by regulating the miR-559/CBS axis.

MiR-153 Enriched in Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes Promotes Chemotherapy Sensitivity of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma

Our study assesses the effect of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) exosomes miR-153 on papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). Adipogenesis and osteogenic induction of MSCs was performed and labeled with Cy5 labeled miR inhibitor. Cells were transfected followed by analysis of miR-153 level by real-time PCR, P-gp level by immunoblotting, and cell viability. MSCs are non-hematopoietic bone marrow-derived cells and symmetrical fibroblasts have the same characteristics as MSCs. MSCs have the potential for adipogenesis and osteogenic differentiation; miR-Cy5 can only enter PTC cells through vesicle transfer. TMZ treatment upregulated miR-153 in exosomes; MSC-derived exosomes can be directly transferred to PTC cells. miR-153-inhibitor-Cy5 can effectively inhibit miR-153 transcription and expression of resistance-related proteins. miR-153-inhibitor can promote TMZ’s effect and lead to cell death as demonstrated by increased level of active caspase-3. Inhibiting the endogenous transcription of miR-153 by miR-153 inhibitor can significantly down-regulate cell resistance protein, thereby promoting cell apoptosis under the action of TMZ.

Circ-USP9X Inhibition Reduces Oxidized Low-density Lipoprotein-induced Endothelial Cell Injury via the microRNA 599/Chloride Intracellular Channel 4 Axis

ABSTRACT

Atherosclerosis (AS) is the common pathological basis of cardiovascular disease. Circular RNA circ-USP9X (hsa_circ_0090231) has been discovered to be upregulated in oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-induced human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), but the role of circ-USP9X in ox-LDL-induced endothelial cell injury is indistinct. The purpose of the research was to investigate the role and regulatory mechanism of circ-USP9X in ox-LDL--induced endothelial cell injury. Expression of circ-USP9X was examined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Loss-of-function experiments were performed to assess the impacts of circ-USP9X inhibition on viability, cell cycle progression, apoptosis, and tube formation, inflammation, and oxidative stress of ox-LDL-induced HUVEC. The regulatory mechanism of circ-USP9X predicted by bioinformatics analysis and verified by dual-luciferase reporter or RNA immunoprecipitation assays. We observed that circ-USP9X was upregulated in AS patients' serum and ox-LDL-induced HUVEC. Inhibition of circ-USP9X elevated viability, promoted cell cycle progression and angiopoiesis, and decreased apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress of ox-LDL-induced HUVEC. Mechanically, circ-USP9X regulated chloride intracellular channel 4 (CLIC4) messenger RNA expression by sponging microRNA (miR)-599. Furthermore, miR-599 inhibitor overturned circ-USP9X silencing-mediated influence on ox-LDL-induced HUVEC injury. Also, CLIC4 overexpression reversed miR-599 elevation-mediated effect on ox-LDL-induced HUVEC injury. In conclusion, circ-USP9X silencing decreased ox-LDL-induced endothelial cell injury via the miR-599/CLIC4 axis, which offered a novel molecular mechanism to comprehend the pathology of AS.

Identification of a circRNA-miRNA-mRNA regulatory network for exploring novel therapeutic options for glioma

Background

Glioma is the most common brain neoplasm with a poor prognosis. Circular RNA (circRNA) and their associated competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network play critical roles in the pathogenesis of glioma. However, the alteration of the circRNA-miRNA-mRNA regulatory network and its correlation with glioma therapy haven't been systematically analyzed.

Methods

With GEO, GEPIA2, circBank, CSCD, CircInteractome, mirWalk 2.0, and mirDIP 4.1, we constructed a circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network in glioma. LASSO regression and multivariate Cox regression analysis established a hub mRNA signature to assess the prognosis. GSVA was used to estimate the immune infiltration level. Potential anti-glioma drugs were forecasted using the cMap database and evaluated with GSEA using GEO data.

Results

A ceRNA network of seven circRNAs (hsa_circ_0030788/0034182/0000227/ 0018086/0000229/0036592/0002765), 15 miRNAs(hsa-miR-1200/1205/1248/ 1303/3925-5p/5693/581/586/599/607/640/647/6867-5p/767-3p/935), and 46 mRNAs (including 11 hub genes of ARHGAP11A, DRP2, HNRNPA3, IGFBP5, IP6K2, KLF10, KPNA4, NRP2, PAIP1, RCN1, and SEMA5A) was constructed. Functional enrichment showed they influenced majority of the hallmarks of tumors. Eleven hub genes were proven to be decent prognostic signatures for glioma in both TCGA and CGGA datasets. Forty-six LASSO regression significant genes were closely related to immune infiltration. Finally, five compounds (fulvestrant, tanespimycin, mifepristone, tretinoin, and harman) were predicted as potential treatments for glioma. Among them, mifepristone and tretinoin were proven to inhibit the cell cycle and DNA repair in glioma.

Conclusion

This study highlights the potential pathogenesis of the circRNA-miRNA-mRNA regulatory network and identifies novel therapeutic options for glioma.

miR‑122‑5p suppresses the oncogenesis of PTC by inhibiting DUSP4 expression

MicroRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) play an important role in regulating the occurrence and development of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). miR‑122‑5p is widely considered a tumour inhibitor, which has not been fully explored in PTC. Bioinformatics analysis identified dual specificity phosphatase 4 (DUSP4), a tumour promoter gene for PTC, as a downstream target of miR‑122‑5p. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role and molecular mechanism of miR‑122‑5p in PTC oncogenesis. In this study, the expression pattern of miR‑122‑5p in PTC cancer tissues and PTC cell lines was investigated via reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR. Furthermore, the roles of miR‑122‑5p in PTC were explored using gain‑of‑function and loss‑of‑function assays. The results revealed that the expression of miR‑122‑5p was significantly lower in PTC cancer tissues, especially in cancer tissues with significant invasion or metastasis. Overexpression of miR‑122‑5p caused by miR‑122‑5p mimics inhibited the proliferation, invasion, and migration of the PTC cell line K1, while knockdown of miR‑122‑5p by miR‑122‑5p inhibitors exhibited the opposite effect. Furthermore, in vivo assays revealed that miR‑122‑5p overexpression inhibited tumour growth. In addition, miR‑122‑5p was negatively correlated with DUSP4 expression in PTC cancer tissues. miR‑122‑5p overexpression inhibited DUSP4 expression in K1 cells, while miR‑122‑5p downregulation produced the inverse effect. Specifically, a luciferase reporter assay confirmed the binding sites of miR‑122‑5p on the 3'‑UTR of DUSP4, demonstrating the targeting effect of miR‑122‑5p on DUSP4. miR‑122‑5p inhibited the oncogenesis of PTC by targeting DUSP4, revealing the potential application value of miR‑122‑5p in the diagnosis and treatment of PTC.

Effects of miR-599 targeting YAP1 on proliferation, invasion and apoptosis of bladder urothelial carcinoma cells

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of microRNA (miR)-599 targeting Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) on the proliferation, invasion and apoptosis of bladder urothelial carcinoma cell line J82. J82 cells cultured in vitro were divided into miR-nc group (transfected with analog negative control miR-NC), miR-599 group (transfected with miR-599 analog), miR-599 + pcDNA3.1 group (co transfected with miR-599 analog and pcDNA3.1 empty vector), miR-599 + pcDNA3.1-YAP1 group (co transfected with miR-599 analog and pcDNA3.1-YAP1 over expression vector), the targeting relationship between miR-599 and YAP1 was detected by double luciferase reporter gene assay, the expression level of miR-599 was detected by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR, the expression of YAP1 was detected by Western blot, cell proliferation was detected by MTT method, cell invasion was detected by Transwell's cell experiment, and apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry. The miR-599 was able to bind to YAP1 targetingly; compared with those in miR-NC group, miR-599 expression level and apoptosis rate in miR-599 group were significantly higher, however, the expression level of YAP1 protein and the abilities of cell proliferation and invasion were significantly lower (P < 0.05); there was no significant difference in the above indexes between miR-599 group and miR-599 + pcDNA3.1 group (P > 0.05); compared with those in miR-599 + pcDNA3.1 group, the expression level of YAP1 protein and the abilities of cell proliferation and invasion in miR-599 + pcDNA3.1-YAP1 group were significantly higher, while the apoptotic rate was significantly lower (P < 0.05). MiR-599 may inhibit the proliferation, invasion and promote apoptosis of bladder urothelial carcinoma J82 cells by targetingly regulating YAP1.

Circular RNA circANKRD36 regulates Casz1 by targeting miR-599 to prevent osteoarthritis chondrocyte apoptosis and inflammation

Osteoarthritis (OA) is an ageing‐related disease characterized by articular cartilage degradation and joint inflammation. circRNA has been known to involve in the regulation of multiple inflammatory diseases including OA. However, the mechanism underlying how circRNA regulates OA remains to be elucidated. Here, we report circANKRD36 prevents OA chondrocyte apoptosis and inflammation by targeting miR‐599, which specifically degrades Casz1. We performed circRNA sequencing in normal and OA tissues and found the expression of circANKRD36 is decreased in OA tissues. circANKRD36 is also reduced in IL‐1β–treated human chondrocytes. FACS analysis and Western blot showed that the knockdown of circANKRD36 promotes the apoptosis and inflammation of chondrocytes in IL‐1β stress. We then found miR‐599 to be the target of circANKRD36 and correlate well with circANKRD36 both in vitro and in vivo. By database analysis and luciferase assay, Casz1 was found to be the direct target of miR‐599. Casz1 helps to prevent apoptosis and inflammation of chondrocytes in response to IL‐1β. In conclusion, our results proved circANKRD36 sponge miR‐599 to up‐regulate the expression of Casz1 and thus prevent apoptosis and inflammation in OA.

MicroRNA in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma: A Systematic Review from 2018 to June 2020

Simple Summary

The most common form of endocrine cancer - papillary thyroid carcinoma, has an increasing incidence. Although this disease usually has an indolent behavior, there are cases when it can evolve more aggressively. It has been known for some time that it is possible to use microRNAs for the diagnosis, prognosis and even treatment monitoring of papillary thyroid cancer. The purpose of this study is to summarize the latest information provided by publications regarding the involvement of microRNAs in papillary thyroid cancer, underling the new clinical perspectives offered by these publications.

Abstract

The involvement of micro-ribonucleic acid (microRNAs) in metabolic pathways such as regulation, signal transduction, cell maintenance, and differentiation make them possible biomarkers and therapeutic targets. The purpose of this review is to summarize the information published in the last two and a half years about the involvement of microRNAs in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). Another goal is to understand the perspective offered by the new findings. Main microRNA features such as origin, regulation, targeted genes, and metabolic pathways will be presented in this paper. We interrogated the PubMed database using several keywords: “microRNA” + “thyroid” + “papillary” + “carcinoma”. After applying search filters and inclusion criteria, a selection of 137 articles published between January 2018–June 2020 was made. Data regarding microRNA, metabolic pathways, gene/protein, and study utility were selected and included in the table and later discussed regarding the matter at hand. We found that most microRNAs regularly expressed in the normal thyroid gland are downregulated in PTC, indicating an important tumor-suppressor action by those microRNAs. Moreover, we showed that one gene can be targeted by several microRNAs and have nominally described these interactions. We have revealed which microRNAs can target several genes at once.

RUNX3-dependent oxidative epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in methamphetamine-induced chronic lung injury

Lung toxicity is the main cause of the death from methamphetamine (MA) abuse, but its mechanism has remained unclear. The purpose of our study was to investigate if MA can induce epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and if RUNX3 is involved in oxidative EMT in MA-induced chronic lung injury. The rats were divided into the control group and MA group. Extracted lungs were used for morphological measurements and Western blot. The alveolar epithelial cells were cultured or transfected and then treated with MA or/and N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) followed by flow cytometry, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry. Chronic exposure to MA resulted in the lower growth ratio of weight, increased right ventricular index, thickened alveolar walls, and reduced number of alveolar sacs. Long-term administration with MA caused oxidative stress and pulmonary EMT. NAC increased RUNX3 and alleviated EMT. However, after knockdown of RUNX3, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were significantly upregulated, indicating that RUNX3 was closely related to oxidative stress. Knockdown of RUNX3 aggravated MA-induced EMT by activating RUNX3-dependent TGF-β signaling. Therefore, RUNX3 may be the key to oxidative EMT in methamphetamine-induced chronic lung injury.

microRNA-related single-nucleotide polymorphisms and breast cancer

Breast cancer, as the most common cancer in women which affects patients both mentally and physically, requires great attention in many areas and many levels as this cancer is known to be multifactorial. Single-stranded molecules called microRNAs with near 22 nucleotides are seen to act in central dogma of molecular biology by inhibiting the translation process; it is demonstrated that any alteration in their sequence especially single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) may lead into increasing the breast cancer risk. miR-SNPs are considered to be the potential biomarkers for early detection of breast cancer. As a result, this review documents the well-known miR-SNPs that are known to be associated with breast cancer. In this regard, two principals were discussed: (a) SNPs in the target genes of microRNAs and the alteration in gene expression due to this phenomenon; (b) changes based on the SNPs in the microRNA coding region and the impact on their interaction with target messenger RNA.

Diagnostic value of miR-145 and its regulatory role in macrophage immune response in tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) induced by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) is a serious global health burden. This study sought to investigate the expression and diagnostic value of serum miR-145 in TB patients and explore the biological function of miR-145 using macrophages. Serum expression levels of miR-145 were estimated by quantitative real-time PCR. A receiver operating characteristic curve was plotted to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of miR-145. This study further focused on the effects of miR-145 on cell viability and inflammation in macrophages upon Mtb infection, and explored the potential target gene of miR-145. Serum expression levels of miR-145 were decreased in TB patients, and the upregulated inflammatory cytokines in TB patients were negatively correlated with the serum expression levels of miR-145. miR-145 had considerable diagnostic accuracy in distinguishing of TB patients from healthy individuals and differentiating between active TB cases and latent TB cases. Mtb infection induced an increase in cell viability and inflammatory responses in macrophages, but these promoting effects were rescued by the overexpression of miR-145. CXCL16 was determined as a target gene of miR-145 in macrophages. Overall, this study demonstrated that the decreased serum miR-145 expression serves a candidate diagnostic biomarker in TB patients. The overexpression of miR-145 in macrophages upon Mtb infection can suppress cell viability and infection-induced inflammation via regulating CXCL16, indicating the potential of miR-145 as a therapeutic target of TB.

MiR-599 regulates LPS-mediated apoptosis and inflammatory responses through the JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway via targeting ROCK1 in human umbilical vein endothelial cells

MicroRNA plays an integral role in the development of atherosclerosis. Our study aimed to investigate the roles of miR-599 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced endothelial damage in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). HUVECs were transfected with a miR-599 mimic and negative control, and then exposed to LPS. The expression of miR-599 was detected by quantitative real time-polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Cell viability was analyzed by CCK-8 assay and trypan blue exclusion assay; the formation of DNA fragments was tested by Cell Death Detection ELISA Plus kit; the incidence of apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry; the expression of p53 and cleaved-caspase 3 (c-caspase 3) was evaluated by western blot. Moreover, the mRNA levels and concentrations of tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 were assayed by RT-qPCR and ELISA. The results showed that overexpression of miR-599 increased cell viability, reduced DNA fragments, the incidence of apoptosis, as well as the protein levels of p53 and c-caspase 3 in the presence of LPS. TNF-α, IL-6, ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 mRNA levels and concentrations were also decreased upon miR-599 upregulation. In addition, the dual luciferase reporter assay demonstrated that ROCK1 is a direct target of miR-599. MiR-599 overexpression inhibited ROCK1 expression. Induced expression of ROCK1 reversed the roles of miR-599 in apoptosis and inflammation. The gain function of miR-599 function inhibited activation of the JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway, which was abrogated by overexpression of ROCK1. Taken together, our results indicate that miR-599 attenuates LPS-caused cell apoptosis and inflammatory responses through the JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway via targeting ROCK1.