miR-9 promotes cell proliferation and inhibits apoptosis by targeting LASS2 in bladder cancer

A review of nuclear Dbf2-related kinase 1 (NDR1) protein interaction as promising new target for cancer therapy

Nuclear Dbf2-related kinase 1 (NDR1) is a nuclear Dbf2-related (NDR) protein kinase family member, which regulates cell functions and participates in cell proliferation and differentiation through kinase activity. NDR1 regulates physiological functions by interacting with different proteins. Protein-protein interactions (PPIs) are crucial for regulating biological processes and controlling cell fate, and as a result, it is beneficial to study the actions of PPIs to elucidate the pathological mechanism of diseases. The previous studies also show that the expression of NDR1 is deregulated in numerous human cancer samples and it needs the context-specific targeting strategies for NDR1. Thus, a comprehensive understanding of the direct interaction between NDR1 and varieties of proteins may provide new insights into cancer therapies. In this review, we summarize recent studies of NDR1 in solid tumors, such as prostate cancer and breast cancer, and explore the mechanism of action of PPIs of NDR1 in tumors.

The Role of Longevity Assurance Homolog 2/Ceramide Synthase 2 in Bladder Cancer

The human CERS2 gene encodes a ceramide synthase enzyme, known as CERS2 (ceramide synthase 2). This protein is also known as LASS2 (LAG1 longevity assurance homolog 2) and TMSG1 (tumor metastasis-suppressor gene 1). Although previously described as a tumor suppressor for different types of cancer, such as prostate or liver cancer, it has also been observed to promote tumor growth in adenocarcinoma. In this review, we focus on the influence of CERS2 in bladder cancer (BC), approaching the existing literature about its structure and activity, as well as the miRNAs regulating its expression. From a mechanistic point of view, different explanations for the role of CERS2 as an antitumor protein have been proposed, including the production of long-chain ceramides, interaction with vacuolar ATPase, and its function as inhibitor of mitochondrial fission. In addition, we reviewed the literature specifically studying the expression of this gene in both BC and biopsy-derived tumor cell lines, complementing this with an analysis of public gene expression data and its association with disease progression. We also discuss the importance of CERS2 as a biomarker and the presence of CERS2 mRNA in extracellular vesicles isolated from urine.

Natural Products and Small Molecules Targeting Cellular Ceramide Metabolism to Enhance Apoptosis in Cancer Cells

Molecular targeting strategies have been used for years in order to control cancer progression and are often based on targeting various enzymes involved in metabolic pathways. Keeping this in mind, it is essential to determine the role of each enzyme in a particular metabolic pathway. In this review, we provide in-depth information on various enzymes such as ceramidase, sphingosine kinase, sphingomyelin synthase, dihydroceramide desaturase, and ceramide synthase which are associated with various types of cancers. We also discuss the physicochemical properties of well-studied inhibitors with natural product origins and their related structures in terms of these enzymes. Targeting ceramide metabolism exhibited promising mono- and combination therapies at preclinical stages in preventing cancer progression and cemented the significance of sphingolipid metabolism in cancer treatments. Targeting ceramide-metabolizing enzymes will help medicinal chemists design potent and selective small molecules for treating cancer progression at various levels.

Analytical and therapeutic profiles of DNA methylation alterations in cancer; an overview of changes in chromatin arrangement and alterations in histone surfaces

DNA methylation is the most important epigenetic element that activates the inhibition of gene transcription and is included in the pathogenesis of all types of malignancies. Remarkably, the effectors of DNA methylation are DNMTs (DNA methyltransferases) that catalyze de novo or keep methylation of hemimethylated DNA after the DNA replication process. DNA methylation structures in cancer are altered, with three procedures by which DNA methylation helps cancer development which are including direct mutagenesis, hypomethylation of the cancer genome, and also focal hypermethylation of the promoters of TSGs (tumor suppressor genes). Conspicuously, DNA methylation, nucleosome remodeling, RNA-mediated targeting, and histone modification balance modulate many biological activities that are essential and indispensable to the genesis of cancer and also can impact many epigenetic changes including DNA methylation and histone modifications as well as adjusting of non-coding miRNAs expression in prevention and treatment of many cancers. Epigenetics points to heritable modifications in gene expression that do not comprise alterations in the DNA sequence. The nucleosome is the basic unit of chromatin, consisting of 147 base pairs (bp) of DNA bound around a histone octamer comprised of one H3/H4 tetramer and two H2A/H2B dimers. DNA methylation is preferentially distributed over nucleosome regions and is less increased over flanking nucleosome-depleted DNA, implying a connection between nucleosome positioning and DNA methylation. In carcinogenesis, aberrations in the epigenome may also include in the progression of drug resistance. In this report, we report the rudimentary notes behind these epigenetic signaling pathways and emphasize the proofs recommending that their misregulation can conclude in cancer. These findings in conjunction with the promising preclinical and clinical consequences observed with epigenetic drugs against chromatin regulators, confirm the important role of epigenetics in cancer therapy.

Homeobox Gene Expression Dysregulation as Potential Diagnostic and Prognostic Biomarkers in Bladder Cancer

Homeobox genes serve as master regulatory transcription factors that regulate gene expression during embryogenesis. A homeobox gene may have either tumor-promoting or tumor-suppressive properties depending on the specific organ or cell lineage where it is expressed. The dysregulation of homeobox genes has been reported in various human cancers, including bladder cancer. The dysregulated expression of homeobox genes has been associated with bladder cancer clinical outcomes. Although bladder cancer has high risk of tumor recurrence and progression, it is highly challenging for clinicians to accurately predict the risk of tumor recurrence and progression at the initial point of diagnosis. Cystoscopy is the routine surveillance method used to detect tumor recurrence. However, the procedure causes significant discomfort and pain that results in poor surveillance follow-up amongst patients. Therefore, the development of reliable non-invasive biomarkers for the early detection and monitoring of bladder cancer is crucial. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the diagnostic and prognostic potential of homeobox gene expression dysregulation in bladder cancer.

Noncoding RNAs Controlling Oxidative Stress in Cancer

Mitochondria in cancer cells tend to overproduce reactive oxygen species (ROS), inducing a vicious cycle between mitochondria, ROS, genomic instability, and cancer development. The first part of this review deals with the role of noncoding RNAs in regulating mitochondrial ROS production and the expression of antioxidants in cancer cells, preventing the increase of ROS in the tumor microenvironment. In addition, cytotoxic T and natural killer cells release high levels of ROS, inducing cell death, while anti-immune regulatory T cells, tumor-associated M2 macrophages, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells, at least at the initial stage of tumor growth, release low levels of ROS supporting tumor growth. Therefore, this review's second part deals with noncoding RNAs' role in regulating the metabolic reprogramming of immune cells about ROS release. Furthermore, the enrichment of noncoding RNAs in microvesicles allows communication between cell types in a tumor and between a tumor and tumor-adjacent tissues. Therefore, the third part illustrates how noncoding RNA-containing microvesicles secreted by mesenchymal stem cells and primary tumor cells may primarily aid the shift of immune cells to a pro-oncogenic phenotype. Conversely, microvesicles released by tumor-adjacent tissues may have the opposite effect. Our review reveals that a specific noncoding RNA may affect oxidative stress by several mechanisms, which may have opposite effects on tumor growth. Furthermore, they may be involved in mechanisms other than regulating oxidative stress, which may level out their effects on oxidative stress and tumor growth. In addition, several noncoding RNAs might share a specific function, making it very unlikely that intervening with only one of these noncoding RNAs will block this particular mechanism. Overall, further validation of the interaction between noncoding RNAs about cancer types and stages of tumor development is warranted.

Characterization of novel small non-coding RNAs and their modifications in bladder cancer using an updated small RNA-seq workflow

Background: Bladder cancer (BLCA) is one of the most common cancer types worldwide. The disease is responsible for about 200,000 deaths annually, thus improved diagnostics and therapy is needed. A large body of evidence reveal that small RNAs of less than 40 nucleotides may act as tumor suppressors, oncogenes, and disease biomarkers, with a major focus on microRNAs. However, the role of other families of small RNAs is not yet deciphered. Recent results suggest that small RNAs and their modification status, play a role in BLCA development and are promising biomarkers due to their high abundance in the exomes and body fluids (including urine). Moreover, free modified nucleosides have been detected at elevated levels from the urine of BLCA patients. A genome-wide view of small RNAs, and their modifications, will help pinpoint the molecules that could be used as biomarker or has important biology in BLCA development. Methods: BLCA tumor tissue specimens were obtained from 12 patients undergoing transurethral resection of non-muscle invasive papillary urothelial carcinomas. Genome-wide profiling of small RNAs less than 40 bases long was performed by a modified protocol with TGIRT (thermostable group II reverse transcriptase) to identify novel small RNAs and their modification status. Results: Comprehensive analysis identified not only microRNAs. Intriguingly, 57 ± 15% (mean ± S.D.) of sequencing reads mapped to non-microRNA-small RNAs including tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs), ribosomal RNA-derived fragments (rRFs) and YRNA-derived fragments (YRFs). Misincorporation (mismatch) sites identified potential base modification positions on the small RNAs, especially on tRFs, corresponding to m1A (N1-methyladenosine), m1G (N1-methylguanosine) and m2 2G (N2, N2-dimethylguanosine). We also detected mismatch sites on rRFs corresponding to known modifications on 28 and 18S rRNA. Conclusion: We found abundant non-microRNA-small RNAs in BLCA tumor samples. Small RNAs, especially tRFs and rRFs, contain modifications that can be captured as mismatch by TGIRT sequencing. Both the modifications and the non-microRNA-small RNAs should be explored as a biomarker for BLCA detection or follow-up.

Non-invasive diagnostic potential of microRNA-203 in liquid biopsy of urothelial carcinoma of bladder

Increased CD44 antigen activity has been reported in recurrent cases of UBC. To date, no reliable biomarker is available with high significance and specificity for non-invasive detection of UBC. This study aimed to identify a CD44-linked microRNAs (miRNAs) (miR-9, miR-34a, miR-203) for non-invasive diagnosis of bladder cancer from other urinary tract malignancies. The expression of CD44-linked miRNAs was examined in serum, urine, and tissue specimens of Indian UBC patients (N = 25). For this purpose, healthy subjects (N = 25) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) (N = 10) patients were taken as controls. The relative expression of miRNAs was analyzed in serum, urine, and tissue samples using real-time quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR). The diagnostic potential of these miRNAs was accessed by plotting ROC curve. Increased miR-9 expression was observed in serum of UBC patients than healthy and BPH controls. In UBC patients, miR-34a expression was lower than healthy controls but non-significant as compared to BPH. miR-203 expression was considerably higher in serum of UBC patients but non-significant as compared to BPH controls. miR-203 was found to be considerably higher in urine samples from UBC patients as compared to BPH and healthy controls. The diagnostic potential of these miRNAs was evaluated using the ROC curve. Higher miR-203 levels in the urine of Indian UBC patients demonstrate its non-invasive diagnostic ability out of the three miRNAs studied. Our results characterize the non-invasive diagnostic potential of CD44-linked miR-203 in the urine of Indian UBC patients, which could be utilized in clinical settings in future after validation in larger patient cohort.

CircRNF13 Promotes the Malignant Progression of Pancreatic Cancer through Targeting miR-139-5p/IGF1R Axis

Background

Mounting evidence has shown circular RNAs (circRNAs) play an important role in the initiation and progression of pancreatic cancer (PC). Meanwhile, circRNAs may serve as the biomarkers for the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of PC. Therefore, it is urgent to elucidate the function and underlying mechanism of circRNAs in the development of PC.

Methods

The Cancer-Specific CircRNA Database (CSCD), Circular RNA Interactome database (circinteractome database), and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) were used to verify the expression level of circRNF13 in PC cell lines. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and RNase protection assay were used to detect the localization and structure of circRNF13. Then, cell functional experiments were employed to estimate the proliferated, migrated, and invasive abilities in PC. Furthermore, bioinformatic tools, luciferase dual reporter assay, and RT-qPCR were used to investigate the interaction among circRNF13, miR-139-5p, and IGF1R. Eventually, the rescue functional experiments were employed to confirm that circRNF13 targeted the miR-139-5p/IGF1R axis to participate in the development of PC.

Results

CircRNF13 was overexpressed in PC cell lines compared with the normal pancreatic duct cell line. Additionally, inhibition of circRNF13 impaired the proliferation, migration, and invasion of PC cells. CircRNF13 could serve as the molecular sponge of miR-139-5p to inhibit its association with IGF1R that eventually accelerated the malignant progression of PC.

Conclusion

CircRNF13 serves as a competitive endogenous RNA of IGF1R to inhibit the function of miR-139-5p that eventually reinforces the malignant phenotype of PC.

Epigenomic and Metabolomic Integration Reveals Dynamic Metabolic Regulation in Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer (BC) represents a clinical, social, and economic challenge due to tumor-intrinsic characteristics, limitations of diagnostic techniques and a lack of personalized treatments. In the last decade, the use of liquid biopsy has grown as a non-invasive approach to characterize tumors. Moreover, the emergence of omics has increased our knowledge of cancer biology and identified critical BC biomarkers. The rewiring between epigenetics and metabolism has been closely linked to tumor phenotype. Chromatin remodelers interact with each other to control gene silencing in BC, but also with stress-inducible factors or oncogenic signaling cascades to regulate metabolic reprogramming towards glycolysis, the pentose phosphate pathway, and lipogenesis. Concurrently, one-carbon metabolism supplies methyl groups to histone and DNA methyltransferases, leading to the hypermethylation and silencing of suppressor genes in BC. Conversely, α-KG and acetyl-CoA enhance the activity of histone demethylases and acetyl transferases, increasing gene expression, while succinate and fumarate have an inhibitory role. This review is the first to analyze the interplay between epigenome, metabolome and cell signaling pathways in BC, and shows how their regulation contributes to tumor development and progression. Moreover, it summarizes non-invasive biomarkers that could be applied in clinical practice to improve diagnosis, monitoring, prognosis and the therapeutic options in BC.

Identification of the biological function of miR-9 in spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats

Spinal cord ischemia–reperfusion injury (SCII) is still a serious problem, and the mechanism is not fully elaborated. In the rat SCII model, qRT-PCR was applied to explore the altered expression of miR-9 (miR-9a-5p) after SCII. The biological function of miR-9 and its potential target genes based on bioinformatics analysis and experiment validation in SCII were explored next. Before the surgical procedure of SCII, miR-9 mimic and inhibitor were intrathecally infused. miR-9 mimic improved neurological function. In addition, miR-9 mimic reduced blood-spinal cord barrier (BSCB) disruption, inhibited apoptosis and decreased the expression of IL-6 and IL-1β after SCII. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis demonstrated that the potential target genes of miR-9 were notably enriched in several biological processes, such as “central nervous system development”, “regulation of growth” and “response to cytokine”. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis revealed that the potential target genes of miR-9 were significantly enriched in several signaling pathways, including “Notch signaling pathway”, “MAPK signaling pathway”, “Focal adhesion” and “Prolactin signaling pathway”. We further found that the protein expression of MAP2K3 and Notch2 were upregulated after SCII while miR-9 mimic reduced the increase of MAP2K3 and Notch2 protein. miR-9 mimic or MAP2K3 inhibitor reduced the release of IL-6 and IL-1β. miR-9 mimic or si-Notch2 reduced the increase of cleaved-caspase3. Moreover, MAP2K3 inhibitor and si-Notch2 reversed the effects of miR-9 inhibitor. In conclusion, overexpression of miR-9 improves neurological outcomes after SCII and might inhibit BSCB disruption, neuroinflammation, and apoptosis through MAP2K3-, or Notch2-mediated signaling pathway in SCII.

Exosomes from tamoxifen-resistant breast cancer cells transmit drug resistance partly by delivering miR-9-5p

Background

Resistance to drug therapy is a major impediment for successful treatment of patients suffering from breast cancer (BC). Tamoxifen (TAM) is an extensively used therapeutic agent, which substantially reduces the risk of recurrence and associated mortality in BC. This study demonstrated that exosomal transfer of microRNA-9-5p (miR-9-5p) enhanced the resistance of MCF-7 cells to TAM.

Methods

Initially, BC-related differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and their upstream regulatory miRNAs were identified. The TAM-resistant MCF-7 (MCF-7/TAM) cell line and the non-medicated sensitive MCF-7 cell line were formulated, followed by isolation of the exosomes. Next, the apoptosis rate of exosome-treated MCF-7 cells was determined after co-culture with TAM. The interaction between miR-9-5p and ADIPOQ was identified by a combination of bioinformatic analysis and luciferase activity assay. In order to validate the effect of miR-9-5p and ADIPOQ on TAM resistance in the MCF-7 cells in vitro and in vivo, miR-9-5p was delivered into the exosomes. ADIPOQ and miR-9-5p were identified as the BC-related DEG and upstream regulatory miRNA.

Results

Exosomes derived from the MCF-7/TAM cells could increase the resistance of MCF-7 cells to TAM. Notably, miR-9-5p altered the sensitivity of BC cells to TAM. In addition, ADIPOQ was negatively regulated by miR-9-5p. Furthermore, MCF-7/TAM cell-derived miR-9-5p inhibited the apoptosis of MCF-7 cells, and promoted the cell resistance to TAM. In vivo experiments in nude mice ascertained that the tumor injected with exosomal miR-9-5p showed improved resistance to TAM.

Conclusions

Exosomal transfer of miR-9-5p augmented the drug resistance of BC cells to TAM by down-regulating ADIPOQ, suggesting its functionality as a candidate molecular target for the management of BC.

Downregulation of miR-9 correlates with poor prognosis in colorectal cancer

INTRODUCTION

microRNAs (miRNAs) are frequently dysregulated in many human cancers including colorectal cancer (CRC) and are useful candidate biomarkers in liquid biopsy of cancer for their stability in the blood.

METHODS

We compared the expression of microRNA-9 (miR-9) in tissues (n = 357) and sera (n = 109) of CRC patients to determine whether miR-9 in serum reflects that in the cancer tissue in parallel. Also, we examined the miR-9 role in CRC by in vitro functional studies in four CRC cell lines.

RESULTS

On multivariate analysis of colorectal cancer tissues and sera, miR-9 low expressions were significantly associated pN stage (tissues; p < 0.01, serum; p = 0.013), and clinical stage (tissues; p < 0.01, serum; p = 0.031). Moreover, patients with low miR-9 expression had shorter survival than those with high miR-9 expression (log-rank test, tissue; p = 0.021, serum; p = 0.011). miR-9 level in serum reflects that in the tumor. The CRC cells with low miR-9 expression was significantly increased cell proliferation, migration, invasion and colony formation than cells with high miR-9 expression.

CONCLUSION

Serum miR-9 is an useful early detection marker in liquid biopsy of CRC and overexpression of miR-9 in CRC may be a novel prognostic marker as well.

miR-9-5p Inhibits Skeletal Muscle Satellite Cell Proliferation and Differentiation by Targeting IGF2BP3 through the IGF2-PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathway

MicroRNAs are evolutionarily conserved, small non-coding RNAs that play critical post-transcriptional regulatory roles in skeletal muscle development. We previously found that miR-9-5p is abundantly expressed in chicken skeletal muscle. Here, we demonstrate a new role for miR-9-5p as a myogenic microRNA that regulates skeletal muscle development. The overexpression of miR-9-5p significantly inhibited the proliferation and differentiation of skeletal muscle satellite cells (SMSCs), whereas miR-9-5p inhibition had the opposite effect. We show that insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA-binding protein 3 (IGF2BP3) is a target gene of miR-9-5p, using dual-luciferase assays, RT-qPCR, and Western Blotting, and that it promotes proliferation and differentiation of SMSCs. In addition, we found that IGF2BP3 regulates IGF-2 expression, using overexpression and knockdown studies. We show that Akt is activated by IGF2BP3 and is essential for IGF2BP3-induced cell development. Together, our results indicate that miR-9-5p could regulate the proliferation and differentiation of myoblasts by targeting IGF2BP3 through IGF-2 and that this activity results in the activation of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in skeletal muscle cells.

miRNAs: A Promising Target in the Chemoresistance of Bladder Cancer

Chemotherapy is an important cancer treatment method. Tumor chemotherapy resistance is one of the main factors leading to tumor progression. Like other malignancies, bladder cancer, especially muscle-invasive bladder cancer, is prone to chemotherapy resistance. Additionally, only approximately 50% of muscle-invasive bladder cancer responds to cisplatin-based chemotherapy. miRNAs are a class of small, endogenous, noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression at the posttranscriptional level, which results in the inhibition of translation or the degradation of mRNA. In the study of miRNAs and cancer, including gastric cancer, prostate cancer, liver cancer, and colorectal cancer, it has been found that miRNAs can regulate the expression of genes related to tumor resistance, thereby promoting the progression of tumors. In bladder cancer, miRNAs are also closely related to chemotherapy resistance, suggesting that miRNAs can be a new therapeutic target for the chemotherapy resistance of bladder cancer. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms of miRNAs in the chemotherapy resistance of bladder cancer is an important foundation for restoring the chemotherapy sensitivity of bladder cancer and improving the efficacy of chemotherapy and patient survival. In this article, we review the role of miRNAs in the development of chemotherapy-resistant bladder cancer and the various resistance mechanisms that involve apoptosis, the cell cycle, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and cancer stem cells (CSCs).

The long non-coding RNA TUG1-miR-9a-5p axis contributes to ischemic injuries by promoting cardiomyocyte apoptosis via targeting KLF5

Non-coding RNAs participate in many cardiac pathophysiological processes, including myocardial infarction (MI). Here we showed the interplay between long non-coding RNA taurine-upregulated gene 1 (lncR-TUG1), miR-9a-5p (miR-9) and Krüppel-like factor 5 (KLF5). LncR-TUG1 was upregulated in ischemic heart and in cultured cardiomyocytes exposed to H₂O₂. Knockdown of lncR-TUG1 markedly ameliorated impaired cardiac function of MI mice. Further study showed that lncR-TUG1 acted as a competitive endogenous RNA of miR-9, and silencing of lncR-TUG1 inhibited cardiomyocyte apoptosis by upregulating miR-9 expression. Furthermore, the miR-9 overexpression obviously prevented ischemia injury and significantly inhibited H₂O₂-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis via inhibition of mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. KLF5, as a target gene of miR-9 by dual-luciferase reporter assay, was involved in the process of miR-9 in regulating cardiomyocyte apoptosis. Our data identified the KLF5 was downregulated by miR-9 overexpression and knockdown of KLF5 inhibited cardiomyocyte apoptosis induced by H₂O₂. MiR-9 exerts anti-cardiomyocyte apoptotic affects by targeting KLF5. Collectively, our data identify a novel function of lncR-TUG1/miR-9/KLF5 axis in regulating cardiomyocyte apoptosis that affects myocardial infarction progression.

Derepression of co-silenced tumor suppressor genes by nanoparticle-loaded circular ssDNA reduces tumor malignancy

The co-silencing of multiple tumor suppressor genes can lead to escalated malignancy in cancer cells. Given the limited efficacy of anticancer therapies targeting single tumor suppressor genes, we developed small circular single-stranded DNA (CSSD) that can up-regulate the expression of co-silenced tumor suppressor genes by sequestering microRNAs (miRNAs) that negatively regulate these genes. We found that cancer patients with low tumor expression of the tumor suppressor genes KLF17, CDH1, and LASS2 had shortened survival times. The up-regulation of these genes upon transfection of artificial CSSD-9 inhibited tumor proliferation and metastasis and promoted apoptosis in vitro as well as in ex vivo and patient-derived xenograft models. In addition, CSSD is more stable and effective than current miRNA inhibitors, and transfecting CSSDs via nanoparticles substantially improved delivery efficiency. The use of a single CSSD can promote the inhibition of multiple tumor suppressor genes. This study provides evidence for the possibility of using CSSDs as therapeutic miRNA inhibitors to target the co-silencing of multiple tumor suppressor genes.

miR-9: From function to therapeutic potential in cancer

Malignant neoplasms are regarded as the main cause of death around the world; hence, many research studies were conducted to further perceive molecular mechanisms, treatment, and cancer prognosis. Cancer is known as a major factor for health-related problems in the world. The main challenges associated with these diseases are prompt diagnosis, disease remission classification and treatment status forecast. Therefore, progressing in such areas by developing new and optimized methods with the help of minimally invasive biological markers such as circular microRNAs (miRNAs) can be considered important. miRNA interactions with target genes have specified their role in development, apoptosis, differentiation, and proliferation and also, confirm direct miRNA function in cancer. Different miRNAs expression levels in various types of malignant neoplasms have been observed to be associated with prognosis of various carcinomas. miR-9 seems to implement opposite practices in different tissues or under various cancer incidences by influencing different genes. Aberrant miR-9 levels have been observed in many cancer types. Therefore, we intended to investigate the precise role of miR-9 in patients with malignant neoplasms. To this end, in this study, we attempted to examine different studies to clarify the overall role of miR-9 as a prognostic marker in several human tumors. The presented data in this study can help us to find the novel therapeutic avenues for treatment of human cancers.

Upregulation of microRNA-9-5p inhibits apoptosis of chondrocytes through downregulating Tnc in mice with osteoarthritis following tibial plateau fracture

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative joint disease which is typically progressed with age, affecting smaller joints of hands, lower limbs, and the vertebral column. It has been reported that microRNAs could regulate the biological processes of OA. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to elucidate miR-9-5p's role in regulating cartilage remodeling of OA mice following tibial plateau fracture (TPF) through regulation of tenascin C (Tnc). Initially, we determined the expression of miR-9-5p and Tnc in mice with OA and then testified their relationship. The results displayed a high expression of Tnc, but a poor expression of miR-9-5p with high methylation in OA. Tnc was confirmed to be a target gene of miR-9-5p. Moreover, based on gain- and loss-function experiments, an increase of miR-9-5p and loss of Tnc had the potential to inhibit cell apoptosis, while facilitating cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and cartilage remodeling of mice with OA following TPF. This was further demonstrated by a higher expression of type II collagen, lower type X collagen, and protogenin expression. Subsequently, downregulation of miR-9-5p aggravated the pathological changes of mice, illustrated by an increase in the Mankin score. In conclusion, the present study proved that overexpression of miR-9-5p suppressed chondrocytes apoptosis and promoted cartilage remodeling through downregulating of Tnc in mice with OA.

Clinical and pathological significance of Homo sapiens ceramide synthase 2 (CerS-2) in diverse human cancers

Homo sapiens ceramide synthase 2 (CerS-2) plays an important role in inhibiting invasion and metastasis of tumor cells and has been reported as a tumor metastasis suppressor gene in diverse cancers. Thus, low level of CerS-2 protein might suggest a bad prognosis and up-regulation of CerS-2 protein might act as a promising therapeutic strategy for malignant tumors. In this review, we discussed the expression, as well as the clinical and pathological significance of CerS-2 in diverse human cancers. The pathological processes and molecular pathways regulated by CerS-2 were also summarized.

MicroRNA expression profiling of lung adenocarcinoma in Xuanwei, China: A preliminary study

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been proved to be related to the development and progression of lung cancer. However, the expression signatures of miRNAs in lung adenocarcinoma in Xuanwei are not yet clear. The current study aimed to identify the potential miRNA profiles in lung adenocarcinoma in Xuanwei by microarray.The miRNA profiles in 24 lung adenocarcinoma and paired non-tumor tissues in Xuanwei were ascertained by using the Exiqon miRCURY LNA microRNA Array (v.18.0). The results of the microarrays were further verified by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) detection. Bioinformatics analysis was used to carry out the functional annotations of differentially expressed miRNAs.One hundred fifty five differentially expressed (≥2-fold change) miRNAs were identified (65 upregulated and 90 downregulated). QRT-PCR was used to validate the top 4 most upregulated and downregulated miRNAs, and the results were generally consisted with microarray. Furthermore, the differentially expressed miRNAs were significantly enriched in numerous common pathways that were bound up with cancer. The pathways included focal adhesion and signaling pathways, such as cyclic guanosine monophosphate -protein kinase G (cGMP-PKG) signaling pathways, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway, and Hippo signaling pathway, etc.Our study identified the potential miRNA profiles in lung adenocarcinoma in Xuanwei by microarray. These miRNAs might be used as biomarkers for diagnosis and/or prognosis for lung cancer in Xuanwei and therefore warrant further investigation. Further study is needed to reveal the potential role of these miRNAs in the carcinogenesis of XuanWei Lung Cancer (XWLC).

miR‑9 depletion suppresses the proliferation of osteosarcoma cells by targeting p16

Osteosarcoma (OS) is a common primary malignancy in adolescents and children. MicroRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) can regulate the progression of OS. Herein, we explored the target genes and effects of miR-9 in OS. Cell growth, colony formation and cell cycle were respectively examined using a cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), crystal violet staining and flow cytometry. The target gene of miR-9 was predicted according to the MicroRNA.org website. Luciferase activity was examined using a dual luciferase reporter gene assay kit. The corresponding factors levels were analyzed by carrying out reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) and western blot analysis. A mouse model of OS was also established and the volume and weight of the tumors of the mice with OS were measured. The levels of p16 in the mice with OS were detected by immunohistochemistry (IHC). The data revealed a high expression of miR-9 and a low expression of p16 in the OS tissue. p16 was found to be the target gene for miR-9 in OS. miR-9 depletion decreased the proliferation and colony formation of Saos-2 cells by arresting the cells at the G1 phase, accompanied by the downregulation of cyclin A, cyclin D1 and c-Myc expression levels. Moreover, miR-9 depletion inhibited the phosphorylation of p38, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). In vivo, miR-9 depletion decreased the tumor volume and weight and increased p16 expression in the mouse tumor tissues. Nevertheless, p16 silencing reversed the suppressive effects of miR-9 inhibitors on OS cells. On the whole, the findings of this study substantiate that miR-9 depletion suppresses cell proliferation by targeting p16 in OS and by mediating the activation of the ERK/p38/JNK pathway.

miR-9 Upregulation Integrates Post-ischemic Neuronal Survival and Regeneration In Vitro

The irrefutable change in the expression of brain-enriched microRNAs (miRNAs) following ischemic stroke has promoted the development of radical miRNA-based therapeutics encompassing neuroprotection and neuronal restoration. Our previous report on the systems-level prediction of miR-9 in post-stroke-induced neurogenesis served as a premise to experimentally uncover the functional role of miR-9 in post-ischemic neuronal survival and regeneration. The oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) in SH-SY5Y cells significantly reduced miR-9 expression, while miR-9 mimic transfection enhanced post-ischemic neuronal cell viability. The next major objective involved the execution of a drug repositioning strategy to augment miR-9 expression via structure-based screening of Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drugs that bind to Histone Deacetylase 4 (HDAC4), a known miR-9 target. Glucosamine emerged as the top hit and its binding potential to HDAC4 was verified by Molecular Dynamics (MD) Simulation, Drug Affinity Responsive Target Stability (DARTS) assay, and MALDI-TOF MS. It was intriguing that the glucosamine treatment 1-h post-OGD was associated with the increased miR-9 level as well as enhanced neuronal viability. miR-9 mimic or post-OGD glucosamine treatment significantly increased the cellular proliferation (BrdU assay), while the neurite outgrowth assay displayed elongated neurites. The enhanced BCL2 and VEGF parallel with the reduced NFκB1, TNF-α, IL-1β, and iNOS mRNA levels in miR-9 mimic or glucosamine-treated cells further substantiated their post-ischemic neuroprotective and regenerative efficacy. Hence, this study unleashes a potential therapeutic approach that integrates neuronal survival and regeneration via small-molecule-based regulation of miR-9 favoring long-term recovery against ischemic stroke.

Anti-miRNA oligonucleotides: A comprehensive guide for design

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally. As a consequence of their function towards mRNA, miRNAs are widely associated with the pathogenesis of several human diseases, making miRNAs a target for new therapeutic strategies based on the control of their expression. Indeed, numerous works were published in the past decades showing the potential use of antisense oligonucleotides to target aberrant miRNAs (AMOs) involved in several human pathologies. New classes of chemical-modified-AMOs, including locked nucleic acid oligonucleotides, have recently proved their worth in silencing miRNAs. A correct design of a specific AMOs can help to improve their performance and potency towards the target miRNA by increasing for instance nuclease resistance and target affinity. This review outlines the technologies involved to suppress aberrant miRNAs. From the design strategies used in AMOs to its application in novel miRNA-based therapeutics and detection methodologies.

Dysregulation of miRNAs in bladder cancer: altered expression with aberrant biogenesis procedure

Aberrant expression profiles of miRNAs are widely observed in the clinical tissue specimens and urine samples as well as the blood samples of bladder cancer patients. These profiles are closely related to the pathological features of bladder cancer, such as the tumour stage/grade, metastasis, recurrence and chemo-sensitivity. MiRNA biogenesis forms the basis of miRNA expression and function, and its dysregulation has been shown to be essential for variations in miRNA expression profiles as well as tumourigenesis and cancer progression. In this review, we summarize the up-to-date and widely reported miRNAs in bladder cancer that display significantly altered expression. We then compare the miRNA expression profiles among three different sample types (tissue, urine and blood) from patients with bladder cancer. Moreover, for the first time, we outline the dysregulated miRNA biogenesis network in bladder cancer from different levels and analyse its possible relationship with aberrant miRNA expression and the pathological characteristics of the disease.

MicroRNA-9 functions as a tumor suppressor and enhances radio-sensitivity in radio-resistant A549 cells by targeting neuropilin 1

Radiotherapy is commonly used to treat lung cancer but may not kill all cancer cells, which may be attributed to the radiotherapy resistance that often occurs in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). At present, the molecular mechanism of radio-resistance remains unclear. Neuropilin 1 (NRP1), a co-receptor for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), was demonstrated to be associated with radio-resistance of NSCLC cells via the VEGF-phosphoinositide 3-kinase-nuclear factor-κB pathway in our previous study. It was hypothesized that certain microRNAs (miRs) may serve crucial functions in radio-sensitivity by regulating NRP1. Bioinformatics predicted that NRP1 was a potential target of miR-9, and this was validated by luciferase reporter assays. Functionally, miR-9-transfected A549 cells exhibited a decreased proliferation rate, increased apoptosis rate and attenuated migratory and invasive abilities. Additionally, a high expression of miR-9 also significantly enhanced the radio-sensitivity of A549 cells in vitro and in vivo. These data improve understanding of the mechanisms of cell radio-resistance, and suggest that miR-9 may be a molecular target for the prediction of radio-sensitivity in NSCLC.

LASS2 regulates invasion and chemoresistance via ERK/Drp1 modulated mitochondrial dynamics in bladder cancer cells

Mitochondria coordinated a lot of vital cellular processes of energy production and distribution. Change of mitochondrial functions has been implicated in cancer progression. The present study aims to investigate the involvement of mitochondria dynamics in LASS2 induced invasion and chemoresistance of bladder cancer cells. J82 and BIU87 cell lines were used for LASS2 plasmid transfection while siRNA knockdown was carried out in 5637 cell line. Matrigel invasion assay and Annexin V/PI staining demonstrated that LASS2 negatively regulated cancer cell invasion and chemoresistance. JC-1 staining suggested that LASS2 overexpression downregulated mitochondrial membrane potential. Mitotracker staining showed that LASS2 induced mitochondrial fusion and inhibited mitochondrial fission. In addition, LASS2 overexpression downregulated expression of mitochondrial fission protein p-Drp1 Drp1 and Fis1. While depletion of LASS2 exhibited the opposite effects. Drp1 inhibitor Mdivi abolished invasion and chemoresistance induced by LASS2 siRNA. Furthermore, we found that LASS2 overexpression could inhibit phosphorylation of ERK, which act upstream of Drp1. ERK inhibitor PD98059 suppressed Drp1 phosphorylation and abrogated the effects of LASS2 depletion. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that LASS2 inhibits bladder cancer invasion and chemoresistance through regulation of ERK-Drp1 induced mitochondrial dynamics.

Clinical value and potential pathways of miR-183-5p in bladder cancer: A study based on miRNA-seq data and bioinformatics analysis

The clinicopathological value and exploration of the potential molecular mechanism of microRNA-183-5p (miR-183-5p) have been investigated in various cancers; however, to the best of the author's knowledge, no similar research has been reported for bladder cancer. In the present study, it was revealed that the expression level of miR-183-5p was notably increased in bladder cancer tissues compared with adjacent non-cancerous tissues (P=0.001) and was markedly increased in the tissue samples of papillary, pathological T stage (T0-T2) and pathological stage (I-II) compared with tissue samples of their counterparts (P=0.05), according to data from The Cancer Genome Atlas. Receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed the robust diagnostic value of miR-183-5p for distinguishing bladder cancer from non-cancerous bladder tissues (area under curve=0.948; 95% confidence interval: 0.919-0.977). Amplification and deep deletion of miR-183-5p were indicated by cBioPortal, accounting for 1% (4/412) of bladder cancer cases. Data from YM500v3 demonstrated that compared with other cancers, bladder cancer exhibited high expression levels of miR-183-5p, and miR-183-5p expression in primary solid tumors was much higher compared with solid normal tissues. A meta-analysis indicated that miR-183-5p was more highly expressed in bladder cancer samples compared with normal counterparts. A total of 88 potential target genes of miR-183-5p were identified, 13 of which were discerned as hub genes by protein-protein interaction. The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition pathway was the most significantly enriched pathway by FunRich (P=0.0001). In summary, miR-183-5p may participate in the tumorigenesis and development of bladder cancer via certain signaling pathways, particularly the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition pathway. However, the exact molecular mechanism of miR-183-5p in bladder cancer must be validated by in vitro and in vivo experiments.

TGF-β1-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition in lung cancer cells involves upregulation of miR-9 and downregulation of its target, E-cadherin

Background

TGF-β1 plays an important role in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of epithelial cancers, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). While the full underlying mechanism remains unclear, miR-9 is known to play a critical role in the regulation of NSCLC cell invasion. We tested whether miR-9 targets E-cadherin and thus affects TGF-β1-induced EMT in NSCLC cells by assessing the expression levels of miR-9 and E-cadherin for NSCLC patients and then verifying the targeting of E-cadherin by miR-9 using the dual luciferase reporter system.

Results

MiR-9 was significantly upregulated in NSCLC tissues compared with its level in adjacent normal tissues. The expression of E-cadherin in NSCLC tissues was significantly decreased. In addition, we found that TGF-β1 significantly upregulated the expression of miR-9 and downregulated the expression of E-cadherin. E-cadherin was confirmed as a direct target gene of miR-9. Using an miR-9 inhibitor reversed the TGF-β1-mediated inhibition of E-cadherin expression and upregulation of the mesenchymal marker α-SMA. TGF-β1 significantly induced cell invasion, and this effect was significantly inhibited by miR-9 inhibitors.

Conclusions

TGF-β1 induced EMT in NSCLC cells by upregulating miR-9 and downregulating miR-9's target, E-cadherin.

Circular RNA circMTO1 acts as the sponge of microRNA-9 to suppress hepatocellular carcinoma progression

Noncoding RNAs play important roles in cancer biology, providing potential targets for cancer intervention. As a new class of endogenous noncoding RNAs, circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been recently identified in cell development and function, and certain types of pathological responses, generally acting as a microRNA (miRNA) sponge to regulate gene expression. Identifying the deregulated circRNAs and their roles in cancer has attracted much attention. However, the expression profile and function of circRNAs in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain to be investigated. Here, we analyzed the expression profile of human circRNAs in HCC tissues and identified circMTO1 (mitochondrial translation optimization 1 homologue; hsa_circRNA_0007874/hsa_circRNA_104135) as one circRNA significantly down-regulated in HCC tissues. HCC patients with low circMTO1 expression had shortened survival. By using a biotin-labeled circMTO1 probe to perform RNA in vivo precipitation in HCC cells, we identified miR-9 as the circMTO1-associated miRNA. Furthermore, silencing of circMTO1 in HCC could down-regulate p21, the target of oncogenic miR-9, resulting in the promotion of HCC cell proliferation and invasion. In addition, the tumor-promoting effect of circMTO1 silencing was blocked by miR9 inhibitor. Intratumoral administration of cholesterol-conjugated circMTO1 small interfering RNA promoted tumor growth in HCC-bearing mice in vivo.

CONCLUSION

circMTO1 suppresses HCC progression by acting as the sponge of oncogenic miR-9 to promote p21 expression, suggesting that circMTO1 is a potential target in HCC treatment. The decrease of circMTO1 in HCC tissues may serve as a prognosis predictor for poor survival of patients. (Hepatology 2017;66:1151-1164).

The role of LASS2 in regulating bladder cancer cell tumorigenicity in a nude mouse model

Previous in vitro studies have demonstrated that LAG1 longevity assurance homolog 2 (LASS2) is a novel tumor suppressor gene that is significantly associated with the proliferation and invasion ability of tumor cells. However, the role LASS2 serves in regulating bladder cancer cell tumorigenicity and tumor growth in vivo has not yet been elucidated in animal or clinical studies. In the present study, LASS2 knockdown in human bladder cancer EJ-M3 cells significantly promoted the growth of xenografts in nude mice compared with the control group, while overexpression of LASS2 suppressed tumor growth; however, this was not statistically significant. Furthermore, LASS2 knockdown resulted in more apparent heteromorphism and a higher activity of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 in xenograft tumors. The data from the present study demonstrated that LASS2 knockdown significantly promoted the tumorigenicity and growth of EJ-M3 xenograft tumors in nude mice, and that LASS2 overexpression has a tendency to inhibit the growth of xenografts, suggesting that it may be a potential therapeutic target for bladder cancer.

Understanding the Role of Non-Coding RNAs in Bladder Cancer: From Dark Matter to Valuable Therapeutic Targets

The mortality and morbidity that characterize bladder cancer compel this malignancy into the category of hot topics in terms of biomolecular research. Therefore, a better knowledge of the specific molecular mechanisms that underlie the development and progression of bladder cancer is demanded. Tumor heterogeneity among patients with similar diagnosis, as well as intratumor heterogeneity, generates difficulties in terms of targeted therapy. Furthermore, late diagnosis represents an ongoing issue, significantly reducing the response to therapy and, inevitably, the overall survival. The role of non-coding RNAs in bladder cancer emerged in the last decade, revealing that microRNAs (miRNAs) may act as tumor suppressor genes, respectively oncogenes, but also as biomarkers for early diagnosis. Regarding other types of non-coding RNAs, especially long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) which are extensively reviewed in this article, their exact roles in tumorigenesis are—for the time being—not as evident as in the case of miRNAs, but, still, clearly suggested. Therefore, this review covers the non-coding RNA expression profile of bladder cancer patients and their validated target genes in bladder cancer cell lines, with repercussions on processes such as proliferation, invasiveness, apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and other molecular pathways which are specific for the malignant transformation of cells.

Long Non-Coding RNA MALAT1 Interacts With miR-204 to Modulate Human Hilar Cholangiocarcinoma Proliferation, Migration, and Invasion by Targeting CXCR4

Metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) is involved in the development and progression of many types of tumors. An aberrant expression of MALAT1 was observed in many kinds of cancers. However, the exact effects and molecular mechanisms of MALAT1 in human hilar cholangiocarcinoma (HCCA) progression are still unknown. Here, we investigated the role of MALAT1 in human HCCA cell lines and clinical tumor samples in order to determine the function of this lncRNA. In our research, lncRNA-MALAT1 was specifically upregulated in HCCA tissues and cell lines, and was associated with pathological T stage, a larger tumor size, and perineural invasion. Knockdown of MALAT1 inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of human HCCA cell. In addition, chemokine receptor-4 (CXCR4) was involved in MALAT1 induced human HCCA growth, migration, and invasion. By using online tools and a series of mechanistic analysis, we also demonstrated that miR-204-dependent CXCR4 regulation was required in MALAT1 modulating HCCA cell growth, migration and invasion. Taken together, our data indicated that MALAT1 might play an oncogenic role in HCCA through miR-204-dependent CXCR4 regulation, and could be regarded as a therapeutic target in HCCA. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 3643-3653, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Mutual regulation of microRNAs and DNA methylation in human cancers

microRNAs (miRNAs) and DNA methylation are the 2 epigenetic modifications that have emerged in recent years as the most critical players in the regulation of gene expression. Compelling evidence has indicated the roles of miRNAs and DNA methylation in modulating cellular transformation and tumorigenesis. miRNAs act as negative regulators of gene expression and are involved in the regulation of both physiologic conditions and during diseases, such as cancer, inflammatory diseases, and psychiatric disorders, among others. Meanwhile, aberrant DNA methylation manifests in both global genome changes and in localized gene promoter changes, which influences the transcription of cancer genes. In this review, we described the mutual regulation of miRNAs and DNA methylation in human cancers. miRNAs regulate DNA methylation by targeting DNA methyltransferases or methylation-related proteins. On the other hand, both hyper- and hypo-methylation of miRNAs occur frequently in human cancers and represent a new level of complexity in gene regulation. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms underlying the mutual regulation of miRNAs and DNA methylation may provide helpful insights in the development of efficient therapeutic approaches.

LncRNA Taurine-Upregulated Gene 1 Promotes Cell Proliferation by Inhibiting MicroRNA-9 in MCF-7 Cells

Purpose

This study was designed to investigate the role of taurine-upregulated gene 1 (TUG1) in MCF-7 breast cancer cells and the molecular mechanism involved in the regulation of microRNA-9 (miR-9).

Methods

The expression of TUG1 in breast cancer tissues and cells was evaluated using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Cell viability was examined using a 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay; cell cycle progression and apoptosis were analyzed using flow cytometry. A dual luciferase reporter assay was used to detect the relationship between TUG1 and miR-9. The expression of methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase 2 (MTHFD2) was measured by western blot.

Results

Higher expression of TUG1 was observed in breast cancer tissues and cell lines than in the corresponding controls. TUG1 knockdown reduced proliferation, suppressed cell cycle progression, and promoted apoptosis of MCF-7 cells. The dual luciferase reporter assay showed that TUG1 could negatively regulate the expression of miR-9. MiR-9 inhibition abrogated the effect of TUG1 knockdown on the proliferation, cell cycle progression, and apoptosis of MCF-7 cells. TUG1 positively regulated the expression of MTHFD2 in breast cancer cells.

Conclusion

TUG1 knockdown was significantly associated with decreased cell proliferation and it promoted apoptosis of breast cancer cells through the regulation of miR-9.

Density-Dependent Regulation of Glioma Cell Proliferation and Invasion Mediated by miR-9

The phenotypic axis of invasion and proliferation in malignant glioma cells is a well-documented phenomenon. Invasive glioma cells exhibit a decreased proliferation rate and a resistance to apoptosis, and invasive tumor cells dispersed in brain subsequently revert to proliferation and contribute to secondary tumor formation. One miRNA can affect dozens of mRNAs, and some miRNAs are potent oncogenes. Multiple miRNAs are implicated in glioma malignancy, and several of which have been identified to regulate tumor cell motility and division. Using rat 9 L gliosarcoma and human U87 glioblastoma cell lines, we investigated miRNAs associated with the switch between glioma cell invasion and proliferation. Using micro-dissection of 9 L glioma tumor xenografts in rat brain, we identified disparate expression of miR-9 between cells within the periphery of the primary tumor, and those comprising tumor islets within the invasive zone. Modifying miR-9 expression in in vitro assays, we report that miR-9 controls the axis of glioma cell invasion/proliferation, and that its contribution to invasion or proliferation is biphasic and dependent upon local tumor cell density. In addition, immunohistochemistry revealed elevated hypoxia inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α) in the invasive zone as compared to the primary tumor periphery. We also found that hypoxia promotes miR-9 expression in glioma cells. Based upon these findings, we propose a hypothesis for the contribution of miR-9 to the dynamics glioma invasion and satellite tumor formation in brain adjacent to tumor.

Prognostic Value of microRNA-9 in Various Cancers: a Meta-analysis

Recently, there are more and more evidences from studies have revealed the association between microRNA-9 (miR-9) expression and outcome in multiple cancers, but inconsistent results have also been reported. It is necessary to rationalize a meta analysis of all available data to clarify the prognostic role of miR-9. Eligible studies were selected through multiple search strategies and the quality was assessed by MOOSE. Data was extracted from studies according to the key statistics index. All analyses were performed using STATA software. Twenty studies were selected in the meta-analysis to evaluate the prognostic role of miR-9 in multiple tumors. MiR-9 expression level was an independent prognostic biomarker for OS in tumor patients using multivariate and univariate analyses. High expression levels of miR-9 was demonstrated to associated with poor overall survival (OS) (HR = 2.23, 95 % CI: 1.56-3.17, P < 0.05) and recurrence free survival/progress free survival (RFS/PFS) (HR = 2.08, 95 % CI: 1.33-3.27, P < 0.05). Subgroup analysis showed that residence region (China and Japan), sample size, cancer type (solid or leukemia), follow-up months and analysis method (qPCR) did not alter the predictive value of miR-9 on OS in various cancers. Furthermore, no significant associations were detected for miR-9 expression and lymph node metastasis or distant metastasis. The present results suggest that promoted miR-9 expression is associated with poor OS in patients with general cancers.

WITHDRAWN: LncRNA TUG1 promotes breast cancer cell proliferation via inhibiting miR-9

Ahead of Print article withdrawn by publisher.

Enhanced miR-9 promotes laryngocarcinoma cell survival via down-regulating PTEN

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in gene regulation during laryngocarcinoma. MiR-9 is a potential oncomiR, but its function in laryngocarcinoma is not known. The aim of this study is to investigate the roles of miR-9 in laryngocarcinoma. We found miR-9 expression was higher in laryngocarcinoma tissues compared with their normal controls, so did the laryngocarcinoma cells. Cellular function of miR-9 indicated that miR-9 restoration in laryngocarcinoma cells could promote cell proliferation and metastasis. Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) was predicted as a target gene of miR-9 and verified using luciferase reporter assay. PTEN expression was down-regulated in the laryngocarcinoma cells with miR-9 overexpression. We also found that miR-9 expression was negatively associated with PTEN expression in laryngocarcinoma tissues.

Co-expression of LASS2 and TGF-β1 predicts poor prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma

Longevity assurance homolog 2 of yeast LAG1 (LASS2) has been reported to act as an important tumor suppressor in the development of human cancers. However, little is known about the prognostic value of LASS2 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) . In the present study, we analyzed correlation between LASS2 and TGF-β1 levels, and evaluated their prognostic values in HCC patients. We first analyzed the expression of LASS2 and TGF-β1 in two independent cohorts (test cohort: 184 HCC patients; validation cohort: 118 HCC patients) using immunohistochemistry (IHC). Kaplan-Meier survival and Cox regression analyses were executed to evaluate the prognosis of HCC. The results of IHC analysis revealed a positive correlation between the expression of LASS2 and TGF-β1. HCC Patients with low expression of LASS2 and TGF-β1 had shorter overall survival (OS) and time to recurrence (TTR) than patients with high expression of LASS2 and TGF-β1. Furthermore, combination of LASS2 and TGF-β1 was an independent and significant risk factor for OS and TTR. In conclusion, low expression of LASS2 and TGF-β1 contributes to the aggressiveness and poor prognosis of HCC, and may represent a novel prognostic biomarker for HCC patients.

The role of microRNAs in bladder cancer

Bladder cancer (BC) is the fifth most common cancer worldwide and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The prognosis of muscle invasive BC is poor, and recurrence is common after radical surgery or chemotherapy. Therefore, new diagnostic methods and treatment modalities are critical. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a class of small noncoding RNAs, regulate the expression of protein-coding genes by repressing translation or cleaving RNA transcripts in a sequence-specific manner. miRNAs have important roles in the regulation of genes involved in cancer development, progression, and metastasis. The availability of genomewide miRNA expression profiles by deep sequencing technology has facilitated rapid and precise identification of aberrant miRNA expression in BC. Indeed, several miRNAs that are either upregulated or downregulated have been shown to have associations with significant cancer pathways. Furthermore, many miRNAs, including those that can be detected in urine and blood, have been studied as potential noninvasive tumor markers for diagnostic and prognostic purposes. Here, we searched PubMed for publications describing the role of miRNAs in BC by using the keywords "bladder cancer" and "microRNA" on March 1, 2016. We found 374 papers and selected articles written in English in which the level of scientific detail and reporting were sufficient and in which novel findings were demonstrated. In this review, we summarize these studies from the point of view of miRNA-related molecular networks (specific miRNAs and their targets) and miRNAs as tumor markers in BC. We also discuss future directions of miRNA studies in the context of therapeutic modalities.

Emergent properties of neural repair: elemental biology to therapeutic concepts

Stroke is the leading cause of adult disability. The past decade has seen advances in basic science research of neural repair in stroke. The brain forms new connections after stroke, which have a causal role in recovery of function. Brain progenitors, including neuronal and glial progenitors, respond to stroke and initiate a partial formation of new neurons and glial cells. The molecular systems that underlie axonal sprouting, neurogenesis, and gliogenesis after stroke have recently been identified. Importantly, tractable drug targets exist within these molecular systems that might stimulate tissue repair. These basic science advances have taken the field to its first scientific milestone; the elemental principles of neural repair in stroke have been identified. The next stages in this field involve understanding how these elemental principles of recovery interact in the dynamic cellular systems of the repairing brain. Emergent principles arise out of the interaction of the fundamental or elemental principles in a system. In neural repair, the elemental principles of brain reorganization after stroke interact to generate higher order and distinct concepts of regenerative brain niches in cellular repair, neuronal networks in synaptic plasticity, and the distinction of molecular systems of neuroregeneration. Many of these emergent principles directly guide the development of new therapies, such as the necessity for spatial and temporal control in neural repair therapy delivery and the overlap of cancer and neural repair mechanisms. This review discusses the emergent principles of neural repair in stroke as they relate to scientific and therapeutic concepts in this field. Ann Neurol 2016;79:895–906

Understanding the CREB1-miRNA feedback loop in human malignancies

cAMP response element binding protein 1 (CREB1, CREB) is a key transcription factor that mediates transcriptional responses to a variety of growth factors and stress signals. CREB1 has been shown to play a critical role in development and progression of tumors. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNAs. They post-transcriptionally regulate gene expression through pairing with the 3'-UTR of their target mRNAs and thus regulate initiation and progression of various types of human cancers. Recent studies have demonstrated that a number of miRNAs can be transcriptionally regulated by CREB1. Interestingly, CREB1 expression can also be modulated by miRNAs, thus forming a feedback loop. This review outlines the functional roles of CREB1, miRNA, and their interactions in human malignancies. This will help to define a relationship between CREB1 and miRNA in human cancer and develop novel therapeutic strategies.