The potential roles and mechanisms of non-coding RNAs in cancer anoikis resistance

Integrative analysis of Anoikis-related genes reveals that FASN is a novel prognostic biomarker and promotes the malignancy of bladder cancer via Wnt/β-catenin pathway

Bladder cancer (BC) exhibits diversity in clinical outcomes and is characterized by heterogeneity. Anoikis, a form of programmed cell death, plays a crucial role in facilitating tumor invasion and metastasis. This study comprehensively investigated the genetic landscape of BC progression, identifying 300 differentially expressed Anoikis-related genes (DE-ARGs) through in-depth analysis of the GSE13507 datasets. Functional enrichment analysis revealed associations with diverse diseases and biological processes. Employing machine learning algorithms, a logistic regression model based on nine marker genes demonstrated superior accuracy in distinguishing BC from normal samples. Validation in TCGA datasets highlighted the prognostic significance of LRP1, FASN, and SIRT6, suggesting their potential as cancer biomarkers. Particularly, FASN emerged as an independent prognostic indicator, regulating BC cell proliferation and metastasis through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. The study provides crucial insights into altered genetic landscapes and potential therapeutic strategies for BC, emphasizing the significance of FASN in BC prognosis and progression.

Effects of syndecan-4 silencing on the extracellular matrix remodeling in anoikis-resistant endothelial cells

Anoikis is a process of programmed cell death induced by the loss of cell/matrix interactions. In previous work, we have shown that the acquisition of anoikis resistance upregulates syndecan-4 (SDC4) expression in endothelial cells. In addition, SDC4 gene silencing by microRNA interference reverses the transformed phenotype of anoikis-resistant endothelial cells. Due to this role of SDC4 in regulating the behavior of anoikis-resistant endothelial cells, we have evaluated that the functional consequences of SDC4 silencing in the extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling in anoikis-resistant rabbit aortic endothelial cells submitted to SDC4 gene silencing (miR-Syn4-Adh-1-EC). For this, we evaluated the expression of adhesive proteins, ECM receptors, nonreceptor protein-tyrosine kinases, and ECM-degrading enzymes and their inhibitors. Altered cell behavior was monitored by adhesion, migration, and tube formation assays. We found that SDC4 silencing led to a decrease in migration and angiogenic capacity of anoikis-resistant endothelial cells; this was accompanied by an increase in adhesion to fibronectin. Furthermore, after SDC4 silencing, we observed an increase in the expression of fibronectin, collagen IV, and vitronectin, and a decrease in the expression of integrin α5β1 and αvβ3, besides that, silenced cells show an increase in Src and FAK expression. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis demonstrated that SDC4 silencing leads to altered gene and protein expression of MMP2, MMP9, and HSPE. Compared with parental cells, SDC4 silenced cells showed a decrease in nitric oxide production and eNOS expression. In conclusion, these data demonstrate that SDC4 plays an important role in ECM remodeling. In addition, our findings represent an important step toward understanding the mechanism by which SDC4 can reverse the transformed phenotype of anoikis-resistant endothelial cells.

Comprehensive review for non-coding RNAs: From mechanisms to therapeutic applications

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are an assorted collection of transcripts that are not translated into proteins. Since their discovery, ncRNAs have gained prominence as crucial regulators of various biological functions across diverse cell types and tissues, and their abnormal functioning has been implicated in disease. Notably, extensive research has focused on the relationship between microRNAs (miRNAs) and human cancers, although other types of ncRNAs, such as long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs), are also emerging as significant contributors to human disease. In this review, we provide a comprehensive summary of our current knowledge regarding the roles of miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs in cancer and other major human diseases, particularly cancer, cardiovascular, neurological, and infectious diseases. Moreover, we discuss the potential utilization of ncRNAs as disease biomarkers and as targets for therapeutic interventions.

Development of a biomarker signature associated with anoikis to predict prognosis and immunotherapy response in melanoma

Skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM) is malignant cancer known for its high aggressiveness and unfavorable prognosis, particularly in advanced tumors. Anoikis is a specific pattern of programmed cell death associated with tumor regeneration, migration, and metastasis. Nevertheless, limited research has been conducted to investigate the function of anoikis in SKCM. Anoikis-related genes (ARGs) were extracted from Genecards to identify SKCM subtypes and to explore the immune microenvironment between the different subtypes. Prognostic models of SKCM were developed by LASSO COX regression analysis. Subsequently, the predictive value of risk scores in SKCM and the association with immunotherapy were further explored. Finally, the expression of 6 ARGs involved in the model construction was detected by immunohistochemistry and PCR. This study identified 20 ARGs significantly associated with SKCM prognosis and performed disease subtype analysis of samples based on these genes, different subtypes exhibited significantly different clinical features and tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) landscapes. The risk score prognostic model was generated by further screening and identification of the six ARGs. The model exhibited a high degree of sensitivity and specificity to predict the prognosis of individuals with SKCM. These high- and low-risk populations showed different immune statuses and drug sensitivity. Further immunohistochemical and PCR experiments identified significant differential expression of the six ARGs in tumor and normal samples. Anoikis-based features may serve as novel prognostic biomarkers for SKCM and may provide important new insights for survival prediction and individualized treatment development.

Overcoming chemoresistance and radio resistance in prostate cancer: The emergent role of non-coding RNAs

Prostate cancer (PCa) continues to be a major health concern worldwide, with its resistance to chemotherapy and radiation therapy presenting major hurdles in successful treatment. While patients with localized prostate cancer generally have a good survival rate, those with metastatic prostate cancer often face a grim prognosis, even with aggressive treatments using various methods. The high mortality rate in severe cases is largely due to the lack of treatment options that can offer lasting results, especially considering the significant genetic diversity found in tumors at the genomic level. This comprehensive review examines the intricate molecular mechanisms governing resistance in PCa, emphasising the pivotal contributions of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). We delve into the diverse roles of microRNAs, long ncRNAs, and other non-coding elements as critical regulators of key cellular processes involved in CR & RR. The review emphasizes the diagnostic potential of ncRNAs as predictive biomarkers for treatment response, offering insights into patient stratification and personalized therapeutic approaches. Additionally, we explore the therapeutic implications of targeting ncRNAs to overcome CR & RR, highlighting innovative strategies to restore treatment sensitivity. By synthesizing current knowledge, this review not only provides a comprehension of the chemical basis of resistance in PCa but also identifies gaps in knowledge, paving the way for future research directions. Ultimately, this exploration of ncRNA perspectives offers a roadmap for advancing precision medicine in PCa, potentially transforming therapeutic paradigms and improving outcomes for patients facing the challenges of treatment resistance.

Validation and identification of anoikis-related lncRNA signatures for improving prognosis in clear cell renal cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Clear cell carcinoma (ccRCC) usually has a high metastasis rate and high mortality rate. To enable precise risk stratification, there is a need for novel biomarkers. As one form of apoptosis, anoikis results from the disruption of cell-cell connection or cell-ECM attachment. However, the impact of anoikis-related lncRNAs on ccRCC has not yet received adequate attention.

METHODS

The study utilized univariate Cox regression analysis in order to identify the overall survival (OS) associated anoikis-related lncRNAs (ARLs), followed by the LASSO algorithm for selection. On this basis, a risk model was subsequently established using five anoikis-related lncRNAs. To dig the inner molecular mechanism, KEGG, GO, and GSVA analyses were conducted. Additionally, the immune infiltration landscape was estimated using the ESTIMATE, CIBERSORT, and ssGSEA algorithms.

RESULTS

The study constructed a novel risk model based on five ARLs (AC092611.2, AC027601.2, AC103809.1, AL133215.2, and AL162586.1). Patients categorized as low-risk exhibited significantly better OS. Notably, the study observed marked different immune infiltration landscapes and drug sensitivity by risk stratification. Additionally, the study preliminarily explored potential signal pathways associated with risk stratification.

CONCLUSION

The study exhibited the crucial role of ARLs in the carcinogenesis of ccRCC, potentially through differential immune infiltration. Furthermore, the established risk model could serve as a valuable stratification factor for predicting OS prognosis.

The emerging role of non-coding RNAs in the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer (PCa) is an important worldwide medical concern, necessitating a greater understanding of the molecular processes driving its development. The Wnt/-catenin signaling cascade is established as a central player in PCa pathogenesis, and recent research emphasizes the critical involvement of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in this scenario. This in-depth study seeks to give a thorough examination of the complex relationship between ncRNAs and the Wnt/β-catenin system in PCa. NcRNAs, such as circular RNAs (circRNAs), long ncRNAs (lncRNAs), and microRNAs (miRNAs), have been recognized as essential regulators that modulate numerous facets of the Wnt/β-catenin network. MiRNAs have been recognized as targeting vital elements of the process, either enhancing or inhibiting signaling, depending on their specific roles and targets. LncRNAs participate in fine-tuning the Wnt/β-catenin network as a result of complicated interplay with both upstream and downstream elements. CircRNAs, despite being a relatively recent addition to the ncRNA family, have been implicated in PCa, influencing the Wnt/β-catenin cascade through diverse mechanisms. This article encompasses recent advances in our comprehension of specific ncRNAs that participate in the Wnt/β-catenin network, their functional roles, and clinical relevance in PCa. We investigate their use as screening and predictive indicators, and targets for treatment. Additionally, we delve into the interplay between Wnt/β-catenin and other signaling networks in PCa and the role of ncRNAs within this complex network. As we unveil the intricate regulatory functions of ncRNAs in the Wnt/β-catenin cascade in PCa, we gain valuable insights into the disease's pathogenesis. The implementation of these discoveries in practical applications holds promise for more precise diagnosis, prognosis, and targeted therapeutic approaches, ultimately enhancing the care of PCa patients. This comprehensive review underscores the evolving landscape of ncRNA research in PCa and the potential for innovative interventions in the battle against this formidable malignancy.

ITGBL1 promotes anoikis resistance and metastasis in human gastric cancer via the AKT/FBLN2 axis

The resistance to anoikis plays a critical role in the metastatic progression of various types of malignancies, including gastric cancer (GC). Nevertheless, the precise mechanism behind anoikis resistance is not fully understood. Here, our primary focus was to examine the function and underlying molecular mechanism of Integrin beta-like 1 (ITGBL1) in the modulation of anoikis resistance and metastasis in GC. The findings of our investigation have demonstrated that the overexpression of ITGBL1 significantly augmented the resistance of GC cells to anoikis and promoted their metastatic potential, while knockdown of ITGBL1 had a suppressive effect on both cellular processes in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, we proved that ITGBL1 has a role in enhancing the resistance of GC cells to anoikis and promoting metastasis through the AKT/Fibulin-2 (FBLN2) axis. The inhibition of AKT/FBLN2 signalling was able to reverse the impact of ITGBL1 on the resistance of GC cells to anoikis and their metastatic capability. Moreover, the expression levels of ITGBL1 were found to be significantly elevated in the cancerous tissues of patients diagnosed with GC, and there was a strong correlation observed between high expression levels of ITGBL1 and worse prognosis among individuals diagnosed with GC. Significantly, it was revealed that within our cohort of GC patients, individuals exhibiting elevated ITGBL1 expression and diminished FBLN2 expression experienced the worst prognosis. In conclusion, the findings of our study indicate that ITGBL1 may serve as a possible modulator of resistance to anoikis and the metastatic process in GC.

Circ_103128 is associated with the tumorigenesis of medulloblastoma

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Medulloblastoma (MB) is a primary malignant tumor of the brain. They are categorized as WHO grade IV neoplasms, and mostly occur in children. The traditional therapy for MB is surgery, followed by radiation and chemotherapy, but the clinical outcome is still poor and has a high possibility of recurrence. The mechanism underlying the development of MB should be further investigated to develop novel therapeutic strategies.

METHODS

Research has demonstrated that circRNAs contribute to tumorigenesis, but the functional mechanism of circRNAs in MB has not been fully explored and remains vague. The differentially expressed circRNAs between MB and normal cerebellar tissues were analyzed based on the microarray expression profiles to characterize the potential mechanism of circRNAs in MB.

RESULTS

The results revealed that circRNA_103128 was highly expressed in MB, and cellular and animal experiments were performed to verify its tumorigenic effect in MB. Furthermore, a bioinformatics analysis and literature review previous literature were performed, confirming miR-129-5p as a target gene downstream of circRNA_103128. In addition, SOX4 was predicted to be a downstream target protein of miR-129-5p. Subsequently, miR-129-5p expression was inhibited, which revealed the regulatory mechanism of circRNA_103128. The latter promotes MB cell growth, migration, and invasion by the sponge effect of miR-129-5p, thereby affecting the expression of SOX4.

CONCLUSIONS

This study is the first to systematically demonstrate that circRNA_103128 may play an important regulatory role in MB through a sponge effect with miR-129 -5p, which affects SOX4 expression and regulates tumorigenesis and tumor cell development in MB.

An anoikis-related gene signature for prediction of the prognosis in prostate cancer

Purpose

This study presents a novel approach to predict postoperative biochemical recurrence (BCR) in prostate cancer (PCa) patients which involves constructing a signature based on anoikis-related genes (ARGs).

Methods

In this study, we utilised data from TCGA-PARD and GEO databases to identify specific ARGs in prostate cancer. We established a signature of these ARGs using Cox regression analysis and evaluated their clinical predictive efficacy and immune-related status through various methods such as Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, subject work characteristics analysis, and CIBERSORT method. Our findings suggest that these ARGs may have potential as biomarkers for prostate cancer prognosis and treatment. To investigate the biological pathways of genes associated with anoikis, we utilised GSVA, GO, and KEGG. The expression of ARGs was confirmed by the HPA database. Furthermore, we conducted PPI analysis to identify the core network of ARGs in PCa.

Results

Based on analysis of the TCGA database, a set of eight ARGs were identified as prognostic signature genes for prostate cancer. The reliability and validity of this signature were well verified in both the TCGA and GEO codifications. Using this signature, patients were classified into two groups based on their risk for developing BCR. There was a significant difference in BCR-free time between the high and low risk groups (P < 0.05).This signature serves as a dependable and unbiased prognostic factor for predicting biochemical recurrence (BCR) in prostate cancer (PCa) patients. It outperforms clinicopathological characteristics in terms of accuracy and reliability. PLK1 may play a potential regulatory role as a core gene in the development of prostate cancer.

Conclusion

This signature suggests the potential role of ARGs in the development and progression of PCa and can effectively predict the risk of BCR in PCa patients after surgery. It also provides a basis for further research into the mechanism of ARGs in PCa and for the clinical management of patients with PCa.

Tumour associated endothelial cells: origin, characteristics and role in metastasis and anti-angiogenic resistance

Tumour progression and metastasis remain the leading causes of cancer-related death worldwide. Tumour angiogenesis is essential for tumour progression. The vasculature surrounding tumours is not only a transport channel for nutrients, oxygen, and metabolites, but also a pathway for metastasis. There is a close interaction between tumour cells and endothelial cells in the tumour microenvironment. Recent studies have shown that tumour-associated endothelial cells have different characteristics from normal vascular endothelial cells, play an important role in tumour progression and metastasis, and are expected to be a key target for cancer therapy. This article reviews the tissue and cellular origin of tumour-associated endothelial cells and analyses the characteristics of tumour-associated endothelial cells. Finally, it summarises the role of tumour-associated endothelial cells in tumour progression and metastasis and the prospects for their use in clinical anti-angiogenic therapy.

A novel risk model based on anoikis: Predicting prognosis and immune infiltration in cutaneous melanoma

Cutaneous melanoma (CM) is a highly aggressive malignancy with a dimal prognosis and limited treatment options. Anoikis is believed to involve in the regeneration, migration, and metastasis of tumor. The exact role of anoikis-related genes (ARGs) in the development and progression of cutaneous melanoma, however, remains elusive. Four ARGs (SNAI2, TFDP1, IKBKG, and MCL1) with significant differential expression were selected through Cox regression and LASSO analyses. Data for internal and external cohorts validated the accuracy and clinical utility of the prognostic risk model based on ARGs. The Kaplan-Meier curve indicated a much better overall survival rate of low-risk patients. Notably, we also found that the action of ARGs in the CM was mediated by immune-related signaling pathways. Consensus clustering and TIME landscape analysis also indicated that the low-risk score patients have excellent immune status. Moreover, the results of immunotherapy response and drug sensitivity also confirmed the potential implications of informing individualized immune therapeutic strategies for CM. Collectively, the predictive risk model constructed based on ARGs provides an excellent and accurate prediction tool for CM patients. This present research provides a rationale for the joint application of targeted therapy and immunotherapy in CM treatment. The approach could have great therapeutic value and make a contribution to personalized medicine therapy.

Identification and validation of an anoikis-related lncRNA signature to predict prognosis and immune landscape in osteosarcoma

Background

Anoikis is a specialized form of programmed apoptosis that occurs in two model epithelial cell lines and plays an important role in tumors. However, the prognostic value of anoikis-related lncRNA (ARLncs) in osteosarcoma (OS) has not been reported.

Methods

Based on GTEx and TARGET RNA sequencing data, we carried out a thorough bioinformatics analysis. The 27 anoikis-related genes were obtained from the Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). Univariate Cox regression and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) analysis were successively used to screen for prognostic-related ARLncs. To create the prognostic signature of ARLncs, we performed multivariate Cox regression analysis. We calculated the risk score based on the risk coefficient, dividing OS patients into high- and low-risk subgroups. Additionally, the relationship between the OS immune microenvironment and risk prognostic models was investigated using function enrichment, including Gene ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA), and GSEA analysis. Finally, the potential effective drugs in OS were found by immune checkpoint and drug sensitivity screening.

Results

A prognostic signature consisting of four ARLncs (AC079612.1, MEF2C-AS1, SNHG6, and TBX2-AS1) was constructed. To assess the regulation patterns of anoikis-related lncRNA genes, we created a risk score model. According to a survival analysis, high-risk patients have a poor prognosis as they progress. By using immune functional analysis, the lower-risk group demonstrated the opposite effects compared with the higher-risk group. GO and KEGG analysis showed that the ARLncs pathways and immune-related pathways were enriched. Immune checkpoints and drug sensitivity analysis might be used to determine the better effects of the higher group.

Conclusion

We identified a novel prognostic model based on a four-ARLncs signature that might serve as potential prognostic indicators that can be used to predict the prognosis of OS patients, and immunotherapy and drugs that may contribute to improving the overall survival of OS patients and advance our understanding of OS.