miR-339-5p inhibits migration and invasion in ovarian cancer cell lines by targeting NACC1 and BCL6

The Role of MicroRNA, Long Non-Coding RNA and Circular RNA in the Pathogenesis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Literature Review

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine-metabolic disease in females of reproductive age, affecting 4-20% of pre-menopausal women worldwide. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenous, single-stranded, non-coding, regulatory ribonucleic acid molecules found in eukaryotic cells. Abnormal miRNA expression has been associated with several diseases and could possibly explain their underlying pathophysiology. MiRNAs have been extensively studied for their potential diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic uses in many diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, PCOS, and endometriosis. In women with PCOS, miRNAs were found to be abnormally expressed in theca cells, follicular fluid, granulosa cells, peripheral blood leukocytes, serum, and adipose tissue when compared to those without PCOS, making miRNAs a useful potential biomarker for the disease. Key pathways involved in PCOS, such as folliculogenesis, steroidogenesis, and cellular adhesion, are regulated by miRNA. This also highlights their importance as potential prognostic markers. In addition, recent evidence suggests a role for miRNAs in regulating the circadian rhythm (CR). CR is crucial for regulating reproduction through the various functions of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis and the ovaries. A disordered CR affects reproductive outcomes by inducing insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and systemic inflammation. Moreover, miRNAs were demonstrated to interact with lncRNA and circRNAs, which are thought to play a role in the pathogenesis of PCOS. This review discusses what is currently understood about miRNAs in PCOS, the cellular pathways involved, and their potential role as biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

An overview of the co-transcription factor NACC1: Beyond its pro-tumor effects

Nucleus accumbens-associated protein 1 (NACC1) is a member of the broad complex, tramtrack, bric-a-brac/poxvirus and zinc finger (BTB/POZ) protein families, mainly exerting its biological functions as a transcription co-regulator. NACC1 forms homo- or hetero-dimers through the BTB/POZ or BANP, E5R, and NACC1 (BEN) domain with other transcriptional regulators to regulate downstream signals. Recently, the overexpression of NACC1 has been observed in various tumors and is positively associated with tumor progression, high recurrence rate, indicating poor prognosis. NACC1 also regulates biological processes such as embryonic development, stem cell pluripotency, innate immunity, and related diseases. Our review combines recent research to summarize advancements in the structure, biological functions, and relative molecular mechanisms of NACC1. The future development of NACC1 clinical appliances is also discussed.

Hsa_circ_0046534 accelerates esophageal squamous cell carcinoma proliferation and metastasis via regulating MMP2 expression by sponging miR-339-5p

Esophageal cancer is one of the most malignant gastrointestinal malignancies. Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is the most common type of esophageal cancer in China. In recent years, with developments in basic medicine, it has been demonstrated that the abnormal expression of circular RNA (circRNA) plays an important role in the progression and prognosis of ESCC. This study explored the role and downstream molecular mechanisms of circ_0046534 in ESCC. We identified circ_0046534, which was found to be highly expressed in ESCC tissues and cells. Moreover, the downregulation of circ_0046534 inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of ESCC cells and the growth and metastasis of ESCC tumours in vivo. Dual-luciferase reporter assays showed that circ_0046534 sponged miR-339-5p and inhibited the expression of miR-339-5p. Furthermore, MMP2 was identified to be a direct target of miR-339-5p through bioinformatics analysis. In addition, the knockdown of circ_0046534 inhibited the expression of the downstream target gene matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) by releasing the adsorption of miR-339-5p. Taken together, this study demonstrated that silencing circ_0046534 inhibited the growth and metastasis of ESCC through the miR-339-5p/MMP2 pathway. Circ_0046534 is expected to serve as a new biomarker and target for ESCC and provide a new direction for its diagnosis and treatment.

Perioperative stress prolong post-surgical pain via miR-339-5p targeting oprm1 in the amygdala

Background

The decreased expression of mu-opioid receptors (MOR) in the amygdala may be a key molecular in chronic post-surgical pain (CPSP). It is known that miR-339-5p expression in the amygdala of a stressed rat model was increased. Analyzed by RNAhybrid, miR-339-5p could target opioid receptor mu 1 (oprm1) which codes MOR directly. So, the authors hypothesized that miR-339-5p could regulate the expression of MOR via targeting oprm1 and cause the effects to CPSP.

Methods

To simulate perioperative short-term stress, a perioperative stress prolongs incision-induced pain hypersensitivity without changing basal pain perception rat model was built. A pmiR-RB-REPORT™ dual luciferase assay was taken to verify whether miR-339-5p could act on oprm1 as a target. The serum glucocorticoid level of rats was test. Differential expressions of MOR, GFAP, and pERK1/2 in each group of the rats' amygdala were tested, and the expressions of miR-339-5p in each group of rats' amygdalas were also measured.

Results

Perioperative stress prolonged the recovery time of incision pain. The expression of MOR was down-regulated in the amygdala of rats in stress + incision (S + IN) group significantly compared with other groups (P < 0.050). miR-339-5p was up-regulated in the amygdala of rats in group S + IN significantly compared with other groups (P < 0.050). miR-339-5p acts on oprm1 3'UTR and take MOR mRNA as a target.

Conclusions

Perioperative stress could increase the expression of miR-339-5p, and miR-339-5p could cause the expression of MOR to decrease via targeting oprm1. This regulatory pathway maybe an important molecular mechanism of CPSP.

Two lncRNAs, MACC1-AS1 and UCA1, co-mediate the expression of multiple mRNAs through interaction with individual miRNAs in breast cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Increasing studies have shown that lncRNAs often play roles through interaction with miRNAs to control gene expression by inhibiting translation or facilitating degradation of target mRNAs. Here, we report that two lncRNAs, MACC1-AS1 and UCA1 are coordinately expressed in breast cancer cells and share the ability to interact with multiple miRNAs to mediate the expression of different genes.

METHODS

Targetscan, starBase and miRDB databases were used to predict the relationships of MACC1-AS1/UCA1-miRNA-mRNA network. qRT-PCR, and RNA sequencing were used to study the differential expression of lncRNAs and miRNA-targeted genes in breast cancer cells. RIP, RNA pull-down and luciferase assays were performed to confirm the molecular interactions of MACC1-AS1 or UCA1 with predicted miRNAs. The role of lncRNA-mediated miRNA-mRNA interactions in cell proliferation was examined by MTT assays following loss-of-function and gain-of-function effects.

RESULTS

We identified a lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA regulatory network in breast cancer cells, in which a number of mRNAs can be co-regulated by MACC1-AS1 and UCA1 lncRNAs. Each lncRNA possesses the capacity as a ceRNA to compete with various mRNA-targeting miRNAs. Interaction of MACC1-AS1 or UCA1 with individual miRNAs is able to increase the expression of the same target mRNAs, such as TBL1X and MEF2D, thus affecting cancer-cell growth phenotype.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that in each cell type, there is a balance of interactions between certain lncRNAs and miRNAs. Disrupting the balance would eventually affect the expression of miRNA-targeted genes and cell proliferation.

The Expression Profile of miRNA in Glioma and the Role of miR-339-5p in Glioma

Objective

To reveal the expression profile of miRNA in glioma and the effects of microRNA-339-5p (miR-339-5p) on glioma.

Methods

The glioma and normal tissues were randomly selected for miRNA gene chip detection and qRT-PCR verification. The U87 cells were separated into miR-NC, miR-339-5p mimic, and miR-339-5p suppressor group. Clonogenesis test, flow cell technique, Transwell, and cell scratch assay were utilized to verify the roles of miR-339-5p in cell proliferation, cell apoptosis, cell invasion, and cell migration. The epithelial-meso-transformation-associated proteins was verified by Western blot.

Results

A total of 49 miRNAs (16 upregulated and 33 downregulated) were differentially expressed in glioma tissues, and miR-339-5p was the most downregulated. The clone number, invasion number, and healing rate of cells in miR-339-5p mimic group were decreased compared with miR-NC group (P < 0.05); the clone quantity, invasion number, and healing rate of cells in miR-339-5p inhibitor group were increased compared with miR-NC group (P < 0.05). The apoptosis rate of human glioma U87 cells in miR-339-5P mimic group was compared with miR-NC group (P < 0.05); the apoptosis rate of human glioma U87 cells in miR-339-5p suppressor group decreased compared with miR-NC group (P < 0.05). Compared with miR-NC group, the protein expression of Twist, Snsnail, N-cadherin, and Vimentin in miR-339-5p mimic group was considerably decreased, whereas E-cadherin was elevated (P < 0.05). Compared with miR-NC group, the protein expression of Twist, Snsnail, N-cadherin, and Vimentin in miR-339-5p suppressor group was considerably increased, whereas E-cadherin was considerably decreased (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Forty-nine glioma-related miRNAs were screened out, and miRNA expression was significantly different between glioma and normal tissues. The downregulated miR-339-5p in glioma can regulate the proliferative, apoptotic, invasive, and migratory abilities of glioma U87 cells and might suppress the occurrence and development of glioma.

Identification of a six-microRNA signature as a potential diagnostic biomarker in breast cancer tissues

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer (BC) is by far the most common malignancy among women. Epigenetic modulators, microRNAs in particular, may set stages for BC development and its progression. Herein, we aimed to assess the diagnostic potentiality of a signature of six miRNAs (i.e., hsa-miR-25-3p, -29a-5p, -105-3p, -181b1-5p, -335-5p, and -339-5p) in BC and adjacent non-tumor tissues.

METHODS

A pair of 50 tumor and adjacent non-tumor samples were taken from BC patients. The expression of each candidate miRNA was measured using quantitative reverse transcription PCR. To investigate the possible roles of each miRNA and their impressions on BC prognosis, in silico tools were used. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were performed to determine the diagnostic accuracy of each miRNA and the possible association of their expression with clinicopathological characteristics was analyzed.

RESULTS

Our findings showed the upregulation of hsa-miR-25-3p, -29a-5p, -105-3p, and -181b1-5p, and the downregulation of hsa-miR-335-5p and -339-5p in BC tumor compared to corresponding adjacent tissues. Except for hsa-miR-339-5p, the up-/down-regulation of the candidate miRNAs was associated with TNM stages. Except for hsa-miR-105-3p, each candidate miRNA was correlated with HER-2 status. ROC curve analysis showed that the signature of six-miRNA is a potential biomarker distinguishing between tumor and non-tumor breast tissue samples.

CONCLUSION

We showed that the dysregulation of a novel signature of six-miRNA can be used as a potential biomarker for BC diagnosis.

The role of miRNA-339-5p in the function of vascular endothelial progenitor cells in patients with PCOS

RESEARCH QUESTION

miRNA-339 participates in diseases with endothelial progenitor cell (EPC) dysfunction. What is the role of miRNA-339-5p in EPC of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

DESIGN

Clinical data were collected from 76 controls and 84 PCOS patients. Noradrenaline, asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), advanced glycation end products (AGE) and silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) in the serum were measured. The functions of EPC and the expressions of PI3K, AKT, SIRT1 and PGC-1α in EPC before and after transfection with miRNA-339-5p mimic or miRNA-339-5p inhibitor were compared.

RESULTS

Serum concentrations of noradrenaline, ADMA and AGE were significantly higher (P = 0.009, P = 0.044, P < 0.001) and the SIRT1 concentration was significantly lower (P < 0.001) in PCOS patients, especially obese ones (P = 0.034, P = 0.032, P < 0.001, P = 0.023) than in the control group. When compared with the controls, proliferation of the EPC was slightly lower (without a significant difference), the migration and tubular formation were significantly decreased (P = 0.037, P = 0.011), the expression of miRNA-339-5p in EPC was significantly higher (P = 0.035) and the expressions of PI3K, AKT, SIRT1 and PGC-1α were significantly lower in the PCOS group (mRNA: P = 0.033, P = 0.027, P = 0.027, P = 0.032; protein: P = 0.036, P = 0.028, P = 0.039, P = 0.023). After transfection, the functions of EPC from PCOS patients were best in the miRNA-339-5p inhibitor group, and weakest in the miRNA-339-5p mimic group. The miRNA-339-5p inhibitor group had higher protein expressions of PI3K, AKT and SIRT1 but lower expression of PGC-1α in PCOS patients (P < 0.001, P = 0.030, P = 0.047, P = 0.003). Similar results were obtained from the controls after transfection.

CONCLUSION

Increased sympathetic excitation and damage to EPC were observed in PCOS patients, especially obese ones. Up-regulated miRNA-339-5p could inhibit the function of EPC by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT and SIRT1/PGC-1α signalling pathways.

Circulating microRNAs in Early Breast Cancer Patients and Its Association With Lymph Node Metastases

MicroRNAs have emerged as important regulators of the metastatic process. In addition, circulating miRNAs appear to be surprisingly stable in peripheral blood making them ideal noninvasive biomarkers for disease diagnosis. Here, we performed a proof-of-principle study to investigate the expression profile of circulating miRNAs and their association with the metastatic lymph node status in early breast cancer patients. Sentinel lymph node status was detected by one-step nucleic acid (OSNA) analysis. We performed RNA-sequencing in 16 plasma samples and validated the results by qPCR. Gene Ontology term enrichment and KEGG pathway analyses were carried out using DAVID tools. We found16 differentially expressed miRNAs (q < 0.01) in patients with positive SLNs. Fourteen miRNAs were down-regulated (miR-339-5p, miR-133a-3p, miR-326, miR-331-3p, miR-369-3p, miR-328-3p, miR-26a-3p, miR-139-3p, miR-493-3p, miR-664a-5p, miR-146a-5p, miR-323b-3p, miR-1307-3p and miR-423-3p) and 2 were up-regulated (miR-101-3pand miR-144-3p). Hierarchical clustering using differentially expressed miRNAs clearly distinguished patients according to their lymph node status. Gene ontology analysis showed a significant enrichment of biological processes associated with the regulation of the epithelial mesenchymal transition, cell proliferation and transcriptional regulation. Our results suggest the potential role of several circulating miRNAs as surrogate markers of lymph node metastases in early breast cancer patients. Further validation in a larger cohort of patients will be necessary to confirm our results.

Implication of BAG5 downregulation in metabolic reprogramming of cisplatin-resistant ovarian cancer cells via mTORC2 signaling pathway

Ovarian cancer is the most frequent cause of gynecologic malignancies associated death. Primary or acquired cisplatin resistance is frequently occurred during ovarian cancer therapy. Cancer stem cells (CSC) tend to form minimal residual disease after chemotherapy and are implicated in relapse. The ability of cancer cells to reprogram their metabolism has recently been related with maintenance of CSC and resistance to chemotherapies. The current study found that BAG5 expression was decreased in cisplatin-resistant ovarian cancer cells and clinical tissues. Our data demonstrated that BAG5 knockdown was implicated in metabolic reprogramming and maintenance of cancer stem cell (CSC)-like features of ovarian cancer cells via regulation of Rictor and subsequent mTORC2 signaling pathway. In addition, the current study demonstrated that Bcl6 upregulation was responsible for repression of BAG5 transactivation via recruitment on the BAG5 promoter in cisplatin-resistant ovarian cancer. The current study also demonstrated reverse correlations between BAG5 and Bcl6, BAG5 and Rictor in ovarian serous adenocarcinoma tissues. Collectively, the current study identified the implication of Bcl6/BAG5/Rictor-mTORC2 signaling pathway in metabolic reprograming and maintenance of CSC-like features in cisplatin-resistant ovarian cancer cells. Therefore, further studies on the mechanism underlying regulation of metabolic reprogramming and CSC-like characteristics of cisplatin-resistant ovarian cancer cells may contribute to the establishment of novel therapeutic strategy for cisplatin-resistance.

Serum levels of miR-21-5p and miR-339-5p associate with occupational trichloroethylene hypersensitivity syndrome

Background

Trichloroethylene (TCE) hypersensitivity syndrome (THS) is a dose-independent and potentially life-threatening disease. In this study, we sought to identify THS-related miRNAs and evaluate its potential clinical value.

Methods

Serum samples of five patients and five matched TCE contacts were used for screening differential miRNAs. Another 34 patients and 34 matched TCE contacts were used for verifying significantly differential miRNAs with SYBR™ Green PCR and MGB PCR. The diagnostic model based on these miRNAs was established via the support vector machine (SVM) algorithm. Correlation between differential miRNAs and liver function was analyzed via the Spearman correlation test.

Results

A total of 69 miRNAs was found to be differentially expressed. MiR-21-5p and miR-339-5p were verified to have significant higher expressions in patients. The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of disease model were 100, 75 and 86%, respectively. The two miRNAs showed significant correlations with liver function.

Conclusion

These findings suggested that miRNAs profiles in serum of THS patients had changed significantly, and miR-21-5p and miR-339-5p were associated with THS.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12995-021-00308-0.

Prognostic value of miR-339-5p in patients with prostate cancer and its effects on tumor progression

Prostate cancer places a serious health burden on males. The present study aimed to explore the potential prognostic significance and biological function of microRNA (miR)-339-5p in patients with prostate cancer. The expression of miR-339-5p was detected in prostate cancer tissues and cell lines by using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. Kaplan-Meier survival curves and Cox regression analyses were used to investigate the prognostic significance of miR-339-5p in prostate cancer. The Cell Counting Kit-8 assay was used to determine the effect of miR-339-5p on prostate cancer cell proliferation. Transwell assays were used to assess the effect of miR-339-5p on cell migration and invasion. The results indicated that the expression of miR-339-5p was downregulated in prostate cancer tissues and cell lines. Downregulation of miR-339-5p was significantly associated with the Gleason score, lymph node metastasis and TNM stage. Patients with high miR-339-5p expression levels had a longer survival time than those with low expression levels. Multivariate Cox regression analysis indicated that miR-339-5p may be an independent prognostic factor for the overall survival of patients with prostate cancer. Overexpression of miR-339-5p inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of prostate cancer cells. Taken together, these results indicated that miR-339-5p functions as a suppressor gene in prostate cancer and acts by inhibiting cell proliferation, migration and invasion of prostate cancer cells. miR-339-5p may serve as an independent prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for the treatment of prostate cancer.

Mechanisms of drugs-resistance in small cell lung cancer: DNA-related, RNA-related, apoptosis-related, drug accumulation and metabolism procedure

Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC), the highest malignant cancer amongst different types of lung cancer, has the feature of lower differentiation, rapid growth, and poor survival rate. Despite the dramatically initial sensitivity of SCLC to various types of treatment methods, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy, the emergence of drugs-resistance is still a grandly clinical challenge. Therefore, in order to improve the prognosis and develop new therapeutic approaches, having a better understanding of the complex mechanisms of resistance in SCLC is of great clinical significance. This review summarized recent advances in understanding of multiple mechanisms which are involved in the resistance during SCLC treatment, including DNA-related process, RNA-related process, apoptosis-related mechanism, and the process of drug accumulation and metabolism.

LncRNA SNHG17 aggravated prostate cancer progression through regulating its homolog SNORA71B via a positive feedback loop

Prostate cancer (PC) is a prevalent male malignancy with high occurrence rate. Recent studies have showed that small nucleolar host genes (SNHGs) and their homolog small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) elicit regulatory functions in carcinogenesis. Present study aimed to investigate the role of SNHG17 and its homolog SNORA71B in PC. Function of SNHG17 and SNORA71B in PC is detected by CCK-8, colony formation, flow cytometry analysis of apoptosis, and transwell migration assay. The mechanism whereby SNHG17 regulated SNORA71B was detected by RIP, pulldown, ChIP, and luciferase reporter assays. Results depicted that transcript 6 of SNHG17 and SNORA71B were upregulated in PC. Knockdown of SNHG17 or SNORA71B weakened proliferation, invasion, migration, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and strengthened apoptosis. Mechanistically, SNHG17 and SNORA71B were transcriptionally activated by signal transducer and activator of transcription 5A (STAT5A). SNHG17 positively regulated SNORA71B in PC cell lines and other cell lines. SNHG17 sponged miR-339-5p to upregulate STAT5A and therefore to cause transactivation of SNORA71B. Rescue experiments delineated that SNORA71B was required for the regulation of SNHG17 on PC. Moreover, SNHG17 silence hindered tumorigenesis of PC in vivo. In conclusion, current study first revealed that lncRNA SNHG17 aggravated prostate cancer progression through regulating its homolog SNORA71B via a positive feedback loop, which might do help to the pursuit of better PC treatment.

NAC1 attenuates BCL6 negative autoregulation and functions as a BCL6 coactivator of FOXQ1 transcription in cancer cells

Background: Nucleus accumbens-associated protein 1 (NAC1) has multifaceted roles in cancer pathogenesis and progression, including the development of drug resistance, promotion of cytokinesis, and maintenance of “stem cell-like” phenotypes. NAC1 is a transcriptional co-regulator belonging to the bric-a-brac tramtrack broad (BTB) family of proteins, although it lacks the characteristic DNA binding motif of the BTB family. The formation of higher-order transcription complexes likely depends on its interaction with other DNA-binding co-factors.

Results: NAC1 interacts with BCL6 via its C-terminal BEN domain and forms a complex that binds the promoter region and activates transcription of the NAC1 target gene, FOXQ1. NAC1 and BCL6 were coordinately upregulated. Our analysis also identified a novel function of NAC1 in attenuating BCL6 auto-downregulation in ovarian cancer. Lastly, we found a significant overlap among NAC1- and BCL6-regulated genes in tumor cells, suggesting that NAC1 and BCL6 coordinately control transcription in cancer.

Conclusions: The results of this study provide a novel mechanistic insight into the oncogenic roles of NAC1 and underline the importance of developing the NAC1/BCL6-targeted cancer therapy.

Methods: Using the Cistrome database and Chromatin Immunoprecipitation (ChIP) analyses, we identified BCL6 as a potential NAC1- interacting molecule. Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP), luciferase reporter assay, immunohistochemistry and microarray analysis were performed to analyze the interaction between NAC1 and BCL6 and the mechanisms by which they regulate the downstream genes including FOXQ1.

RP11-81H3.2 promotes gastric cancer progression through miR-339-HNRNPA1 interaction network

Recent studies have demonstrated that various long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) participate in the gastric cancer (GC) development and metastasis. Some lncRNAs exert their regulatory function by interacting with microRNAs. Here we identified a novel lncRNA RP11-81H3.2 that was highly expressed in the GC tissue and cell lines. RP11-81H3.2 knockdown significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of GC cells. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that RP11-81H3.2 directly interacted with miR-339 while miR-339 regulated the HNRNPA1 expression by targeting HRRNPA1 3'-UTR. RP11-81H3.2-miR-339-HNRNPA1 interaction network regulated the GC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Moreover, our results confirmed that RP11-81H3.2 knockdown suppressed the tumor growth of GC in a xenograft model in vivo. In summary, the results suggest that RP11-81H3.2 functions as an oncogene in GC and could be utilized as a promising diagnosis and therapeutic marker for GC treatment.

Paeonol attenuates inflammation by targeting HMGB1 through upregulating miR-339-5p

Sepsis is a life-threatening disease caused by infection. Inflammation is a key pathogenic process in sepsis. Paeonol, an active ingredient in moutan cortex (a Chinese herb), has many pharmacological activities, such as anti-inflammatory and antitumour actions. Previous studies have indicated that paeonol inhibits the expression of HMGB1 and the transcriptional activity of NF-κB. However, its underlying mechanism is still unknown. In this study, microarray assay and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) results confirmed that paeonol could significantly up-regulate the expression of miR-339-5p in RAW264.7 cells stimulated by LPS. Dual-luciferase assays indicated that miR-339-5p interacted with the 3′ untranslated region (3′-UTR) of HMGB1. Western blot, immunofluorescence and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) analyses indicated that miR-339-5p mimic and siHMGB1 both negatively regulated the expression and secretion of inflammatory cytokines (e.g., HMGB1, IL-1β and TNF-α) in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells. Studies have confirmed that IKK-β is targeted by miR-339-5p, and we further found that paeonol could inhibit IKK-β expression. Positive mutual feedback between HMGB1 and IKK-β was observed when we silenced HMGB1 or IKK-β. These results indicated that paeonol could attenuate the inflammation mediated by HMGB1 and IKK-β by upregulating miR-339-5p expression. In addition, we constructed CLP model mice by cecal ligation and puncture. Paeonol was used to intervene to investigate its anti-inflammatory effect in vivo. The results showed that paeonol could improve the survival rate of sepsis mice and protect the kidney of sepsis mice.

miRNA-339-5p Plays an Important Role in Invasion and Migration of Pancreatic Cancer Cells

BACKGROUND This study aimed to investigate the role of miRNA-339-5p in pancreatic cancer cell invasion and migration. MATERIAL AND METHODS The differences between exosomal miRNAs of PANC02 and PANC02-H7 were studied by microarray analysis. We measured miRNA-339-5p expression in different groups; differences in cell invasion and migration were evaluated using the Transwell and wound healing assays and expression of relative proteins (E-cadherin, vimentin and ZNF689) was measured by WB assay. The correlation between miRNA-339-5p and ZNF689 expression was evaluated by luciferase reporter gene assay. RESULTS Compared with PANC02 exosome, microarray analysis indicated that miRNA-339-5p mRNA expression was significantly suppressed (P<0.001) in the PANC02-H7 exosome. Supplementation with miR-339-5p mimics led to a significant decrease in the invasion cell number and wound healing rate (P<0.001), with significantly enhanced E-cadherin expression and suppressed vimentin expression (P<0.001). However, transfection of a miR-339-5p inhibitor led to a significant increase in the invasion cell number and wound healing rate (P<0.001), with significantly suppressed E-cadherin expression and increased vimentin expression (P<0.001). Luciferase reporter gene assay demonstrated ZNF689 gene to be the target of miR-339-5p in the PANC02-H7 cell. With miR-339-5p and ZNF689 transfection, the invasion cell number and wound healing rate were significantly increased compared with those in the miR-339-5p group (P<0.001), with significantly increased expression of ZNF689 and vimentin and suppressed E-cadherin expression (P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS miR-339-5p suppresses the invasion and migration of pancreatic cancer cells via direct regulation of ZNF689 in vitro.

MicroRNA-339 inhibits human hepatocellular carcinoma proliferation and invasion via targeting ZNF689

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide, however, the prognosis for HCC remains unsatisfactory. This study aimed to explore the role of miR-339-5p in HCC.

Methods

We first used quantitative real-time PCR to examine the level of miR-339-5p in HCC tissues. Then we further adopted Western blotting assay, CCK8, cell invasion assays, apoptosis detection assay, and luciferase assay to analyze how it mediate the development of HCC.

Results

We found that miR-339 is significantly decreased in primary HCC tissues. Overexpression of miR-339 in HCC cells remarkably suppressed proliferation and invasion and induced apoptosis. However, silencing miR-339 in HCC cells promoted proliferation and invasion, and reduced apoptosis. Moreover, we demonstrated that ZNF689 is a target of miR-339 and there is a negative correlation between miR-339 and ZNF689 expression in the HCC tissues. Overexpression of ZNF689 in miR-339-overexpressing HCC cells partially antagonized the inhibitory effects of miR-339.

Conclusion

Our study revealed that miR-339 inhibits HCC growth through targeting oncoprotein ZNF689 and restoration of miR-339 might be feasible therapeutic strategy for HCC treatment.

Deep sequencing of circulating exosomal microRNA allows non-invasive glioblastoma diagnosis

Exosomes are nano-sized extracellular vesicles released by many cells that contain molecules characteristic of their cell of origin, including microRNA. Exosomes released by glioblastoma cross the blood–brain barrier into the peripheral circulation and carry molecular cargo distinct to that of “free-circulating” miRNA. In this pilot study, serum exosomal microRNAs were isolated from glioblastoma (n = 12) patients and analyzed using unbiased deep sequencing. Results were compared to sera from age- and gender-matched healthy controls and to grade II–III (n = 10) glioma patients. Significant differentially expressed microRNAs were identified, and the predictive power of individual and subsets of microRNAs were tested using univariate and multivariate analyses. Additional sera from glioblastoma patients (n = 4) and independent sets of healthy (n = 9) and non-glioma (n = 10) controls were used to further test the specificity and predictive power of this unique exosomal microRNA signature. Twenty-six microRNAs were differentially expressed in serum exosomes from glioblastoma patients relative to healthy controls. Random forest modeling and data partitioning selected seven miRNAs (miR-182-5p, miR-328-3p, miR-339-5p, miR-340-5p, miR-485-3p, miR-486-5p, and miR-543) as the most stable for classifying glioblastoma. Strikingly, within this model, six iterations of these miRNA classifiers could distinguish glioblastoma patients from controls with perfect accuracy. The seven miRNA panel was able to correctly classify all specimens in validation cohorts (n = 23). Also identified were 23 dysregulated miRNAs in IDH^MUT gliomas, a partially overlapping yet distinct signature of lower-grade glioma. Serum exosomal miRNA signatures can accurately diagnose glioblastoma preoperatively. miRNA signatures identified are distinct from previously reported “free-circulating” miRNA studies in GBM patients and appear to be superior.

A diagnostic test for short regulatory RNA molecules contained within tiny secreted vesicles in the bloodstream can accurately pick up signs of glioblastoma brain cancer. Researchers in Australia led by Michael Buckland and Kim Kaufman from the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and the University of Sydney isolated circulating vesicles, called exosomes, from patients with glioblastoma or lower-grade brain cancers known as gliomas as well as healthy controls. Next-generation sequencing revealed a panel of 26 microRNAs contained within the exosomes that were differentially expressed in glioblastoma samples relative to healthy controls. (A different but partially overlapping set of 23 microRNAs also helped distinguish patients with a mutant subtype of glioma.) The researchers narrowed down the list to the seven microRNAs with the most predictive power. Testing for just these microRNAs reliably diagnosed glioblastoma with greater precision than previously reported panels of “free-circulating” microRNAs.

miR-339-5p Increases Radiosensitivity of Lung Cancer Cells by Targeting Phosphatases of Regenerating Liver-1 (PRL-1)

BACKGROUND Radiotherapy is the most effective non-surgical modality in lung cancer treatment, and microRNAs (miRNAs) have been suggested as key regulators in radiosensitization. Herein, we explored the specific function of miR-339-5p in the radiosensitivity of lung cancer cells. MATERIAL AND METHODS Radiosensitivity was assessed by cell viability (CCK-8 assay), cell apoptosis, and cell cycle changes (flow cytometry). qRT-PCR and subsequent Western blot assays were used to determine the expression of miR-339-5p and other related proteins. RESULTS We demonstrated that ionizing radiation (IR) exposure impaired lung cancer cell viability, and found that miR-339-5p is a novel IR-inducible miRNA. Overexpression of miR-339-5p enhanced radiosensitivity of A549 and H460 cells by inhibiting cell viability, increasing apoptosis, inducing cell cycle arrest, and suppressing cell proliferation. Further exploration validated that miR-339-5p can target phosphatases of regenerating liver-1  (PRL-1) in lung cancer cells. Restoration of PRL-1 partially reverses the enhanced radiosensitivity of lung cancer cells induced by miR-339-5p. CONCLUSIONS Our data support that miR-339-5p has potential therapeutic value by sensitizing lung cancer cells to radiation via targeting of PRL-1.

Increased expression of LINC01510 predicts poor prognosis and promotes malignant progression in human non-small cell lung cancer

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the most prevalent type of lung cancer, is one of the most leading causes of cancer-related morbidity and mortality worldwide. Evidence is accumulating that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play vital regulatory roles in tumor development and progression. LINC01510, a novel tumor-related lncRNA, has been identified as an oncogene in colorectal cancer; however, its role in NSCLC remains poorly understood. This study aimed to characterize the biological role of LINC01510 in NSCLC and illuminate the molecular mechanisms. Here we found that LINC01510 was highly expressed in NSCLC tissues. Besides, Fisher's exact test showed that high expression of LINC01510 was associated with larger tumor size, advanced TNM stage and lymph node metastasis. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that patients with high LINC01510 expression had a much lower overall survival rate. Gain- and loss-of-function approaches were employed to investigate the effects of LINC01510 on NSCLC cell phenotypes. Functional studies demonstrated that LINC01510 over-expression promoted NSCLC cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, migration and invasion, but shRNA-mediated LINC01510 depletion inhibited NSCLC cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, migration and invasion. Notably, LINC01510 ablation suppressed tumorigenicity of NSCLC cells in a murine xenograft model. Furthermore, mechanistic studies revealed that LINC01510 exerted its oncogenic functions in NSCLC through miR-339-5p-mediated regulation of CDK14. To sum up, our data indicate that increased expression of LINC01510 predicts poor prognosis and promotes tumorigenesis in NSCLC. Collectively, this study may provide a basis for LINC01510 as a candidate therapeutic target in NSCLC.

Knockdown of BCL6 Inhibited Malignant Phenotype and Enhanced Sensitivity of Glioblastoma Cells to TMZ through AKT Pathway

Background

BCL6 was a critical prooncogene of human B-cell lymphomas which promoted tumor progress and contributed to malignant behavior in several kinds of cancers. This study was to detect the expression of BCL6 and its biological effect on glioma.

Methods

RT-PCR and Western blot were used to detect the expression of BCL6 mRNA and protein in tissues and glioblastoma cell lines. The expression of BCL6 was knockdown in two glioblastoma cell lines (U87 and U251) using BCL6 shRNA. The CCK8, colony-formation, flow cytometry, Transwell, and wound-healing assays were used to evaluate the malignant phenotypic change of glioblastoma cells.

Results

The expression of BCL6 was higher in glioma tissues and glioblastoma cell lines than normal tissues. Knockdown of BCL6 expression reduced the proliferation, migration, and invasion of glioblastoma cells. Moreover, knockdown of BCL6 changed expression of proteins related to malignant behaviors of glioblastoma cells. The suppression of BCL6 could increase chemosensitivity of U87 and U251 to temozolomide. Downregulation of BCL6 levels suppressed the expression of BCL2, cyclin D1, MMP2, and MMP9 proteins as well as two classic signaling pathway proteins p-AKT and p-ERK. Simultaneously, BAX and p21 protein levels were upregulated along with knockdown of BCL6.

Conclusions

Our results indicated that BCL6 may be a tumor oncogene involved in the progression of glioma via affecting AKT and MAPK signaling pathways.

MicroRNA‑339‑5p inhibits cell proliferation of acute myeloid leukaemia by directly targeting SOX4

In recent decades, microRNAs (miRNAs) have been considered novel gene regulators. Dysregulated miRNAs serve crucial roles in the formation and progression of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). Therefore, the roles of differentially expressed miRNAs in AML require extensive investigation to obtain insight into the treatment of patients with AML. The present study demonstrated significant miR‑339‑5p downregulation in AML samples and cell lines. miR‑339‑5p overexpression attenuated AML cell proliferation by inducing cell cycle arrest and promoting cell apoptosis. Additionally, sex‑determining region Y‑related high‑mobility group box 4 (SOX4) was identified as a direct target gene of miR‑339‑5p in AML. Furthermore, SOX4 expression was significantly upregulated in AML samples; this upregulation was inversely correlated with the expression levels of miR‑339‑5p. Additionally, a series of rescue experiments demonstrated that SOX4 resumption reversed the effects of miR‑339‑5p overexpression on cell proliferation, cycle status and apoptosis of AML. In conclusion, miR‑339‑5p may serve its antiproliferative role in AML by directly targeting SOX4, which suggests that miR‑339‑5p may be considered an effective novel therapeutic target for treating patients with such an aggressive haematological malignancy.

NACC1, as a Target of MicroRNA-331-3p, Regulates Cell Proliferation in Urothelial Carcinoma Cells

The nucleus accumbens-associated protein 1 (NACC1) is a transcription factor constitutively expressed in the urothelium, where it regulates cell growth, senescence, autophagy, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. microRNA (miRNA) constitutes a class of small non-coding RNAs which are involved in cell proliferation, differentiation, and progression of tumors. miRNAs and their target molecules are utilized for molecular diagnosis of urothelial carcinoma. NACC1 is one of several putative target molecules of miR-331-3p, and is associated with cell proliferation in cancers such as prostate and cervical cancer. Functional experiments involving miR-331-3p and its target molecule NACC1 were conducted using the urothelial carcinoma (UC) cell lines, T24, UMUC6, and KU7. Furthermore, quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunostaining were performed to evaluate the expression of NACC1 in UC derived from transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TUR-Bt) specimens. The methane thiosulfonate (MTS) assay revealed that cell proliferation was significantly reduced after transient transfection of miR-331-3p precursor and/or NACC1 siRNA in UC cells. Cell senescence via cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase was induced by NACC1 inhibition. On the other hand, suppression of NACC1 induced cell migration and invasion abilities. Immunohistochemical analysis of TUR-Bt specimens revealed that over 70% of UC cells presented strongly positive results for NACC1. In contrast, normal urothelial cells were weakly positive for NACC1. It was also found that NACC1 expression was lower in invasive UC cells than in non-invasive UC cells. Loss of NACC1 induced vessel invasion in invasive UC tissues. The present results indicate that NACC1 regulated by miR-331-3p contributes to cell proliferation, and is involved in cell migration and invasion. This suggests that NACC1 can serve as a potential target molecule for the prediction and prognosis of UC, and can contribute to effective treatment strategies.

Identification of common differentially-expressed miRNAs in ovarian cancer cells and their exosomes compared with normal ovarian surface epithelial cell cells

The aim of the present study was to identify common microRNAs (miRNAs) in ovarian cancer (OC) cells and their exosomes using microarray data (accession number GSE76449) available from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, including exosomal samples from 3 OC cell lines, 1 normal ovarian surface epithelial cell line and their original cell samples. Differentially-expressed miRNAs (DE-miRNAs) were identified using the Linear Models for Microarray data method, and mRNA targets of DE-miRNAs were predicted using the miRWalk2 database. The potential functions of the target genes of the DE-miRNAs were analyzed using the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery tool. The association between crucial miRNAs and target genes, and their clinical associations, were validated using The Cancer Genome Atlas data. As a result, 12 upregulated and 12 downregulated DE-miRNAs were shared by the 3 OC cell lines compared with normal controls in the exosomal samples, while 5 upregulated and 65 downregulated DE-miRNAs were shared between the original cells. Among them, 9 downregulated DE-miRNAs were shared between exosomal and original cells. The target genes of 4 common DE-miRNAs between exosomal and original cells (miR-127-3p, miR-339-5p, miR-409-3p and miR-654-3p) were predicted. Functional enrichment analysis indicated that these target genes may be involved in the Wnt signaling pathway (miR-409-3p-CTBP1 and miR-339-5p-CHD8) and Proteoglycans in cancer (miR-127-3p-PPP1CA). The negative associations between these 3 miRNAs and target genes were confirmed by a Pearson's correlation analysis. miR-127 was negatively associated with tumor grade. In conclusion, our results describe a set of miRNAs involved in OC development, in exosomal and non-exosomal manners, by regulating their target genes. They may be potential targets for treatment of OC.

TSPAN15 interacts with BTRC to promote oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma metastasis via activating NF-κB signaling

Beta-transducin repeat containing E3 ubiquitin protein ligase (BTRC) is crucial for the degradation of IκBα. Our previous transcriptome sequencing analysis revealed that tetraspanin 15 (TSPAN15) was significantly upregulated in clinical oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) tissues. Here, we show that high TSPAN15 expression in OSCC tissues is significantly associated with lymph node and distant metastasis, advanced clinical stage, and poor prognosis. Elevated TSPAN15 expression is, in part, caused by the reduction of miR-339-5p. Functional studies demonstrate that TSPAN15 promotes metastatic capabilities of OSCC cells. We further show that TSPAN15 specifically interacts with BTRC to promote the ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation of p-IκBα, and thereby triggers NF-κB nuclear translocation and subsequent activation of transcription of several metastasis-related genes, including ICAM1, VCAM1, uPA, MMP9, TNFα, and CCL2. Collectively, our findings indicate that TSPAN15 may serve as a new biomarker and/or provide a novel therapeutic target to OSCC patients.

BTRC can activate NF-κB signaling through the ubiquitination and degradation of IκB-α. Here the authors show that TSPAN15 promotes metastasis of oesophageal squamous cell cancer by enhancing BTRC induced degradation of IκB-α and subsequent activation of NF-κB.

Blood and lung microRNAs as biomarkers of pulmonary tumorigenesis in cigarette smoke-exposed mice

Cigarette smoke (CS) is known to dysregulate microRNA expression profiles in the lungs of mice, rats, and humans, thereby modulating several pathways involved in lung carcinogenesis and other CS-related diseases. We designed a study aimed at evaluating (a) the expression of 1135 microRNAs in the lung of Swiss H mice exposed to mainstream CS during the first 4 months of life and thereafter kept in filtered air for an additional 3.5 months, (b) the relationship between lung microRNA profiles and histopathological alterations in the lung, (c) intergender differences in microRNA expression, and (d) the comparison with microRNA profiles in blood serum. CS caused multiple histopathological alterations in the lung, which were almost absent in sham-exposed mice. An extensive microRNA dysregulation was detected in the lung of CS-exposed mice. Modulation of microRNA profiles was specifically related to the histopathological picture, no effect being detected in lung fragments with non-neoplastic lung diseases (emphysema or alveolar epithelial hyperplasia), whereas a close association occurred with the presence and multiplicity of preneoplastic lesions (microadenomas) and benign lung tumors (adenomas). Three microRNAs regulating estrogen and HER2-dependent mechanisms were modulated in the lung of adenoma-bearing female mice. Blood microRNAs were also modulated in mice affected by early neoplastic lesions. However, there was a poor association between lung microRNAs and circulating microRNAs, which can be ascribed to an impaired release of mature microRNAs from the damaged lung. Studies in progress are evaluating the feasibility of analyzing blood microRNAs as a molecular tool for lung cancer secondary prevention.

miR-339-5p downregulation contributes to Taxol resistance in small-cell lung cancer by targeting α1,2-fucosyltransferase 1

Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality, and non-small-cell lung carcinoma is responsible for almost 80% of lung cancer-related deaths. In recent years, lung cancer has shown increasing incidence but poor prognosis, and many studies have demonstrated that microRNAs play crucial roles in the development of lung carcinoma and chemoresistance. This study investigated the role of miR-339-5p involvement in lung carcinoma cell lines and chemoresistance to Taxol. We observed that miR-339-5p was significantly downregulated in Taxol-A549 cells compared with A549 cells. In vitro studies further indicated that miR-339-5p could promote colony formation and attenuate apoptosis of lung carcinoma cell lines through targeting α1,2-fucosyltransferase 1 and regulation of the downstream protein Lewis y. Furthermore, miR-339-5p was found to enhance the proliferation inhibition ability of Taxol in lung carcinoma cell lines as well as in the Taxol-A549 subclone. An in vivo study indicated that both miR-339-5p and Taxol could attenuate the growth of lung carcinoma; moreover, miR-339-5p could synergistically promote this inhibitory function of Taxol. In summary, our results suggest a miR-339-5p molecular network that is involved in controlling lung carcinoma progression. © 2017 The Authors IUBMB Life published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 69(11):841-849, 2017.

MicroRNAs in gynecological cancers: Small molecules with big implications

Gynecological cancers (GCs) are often diagnosed at advanced stages, limiting the efficacy of available therapeutic options. Thus, there remains an urgent and unmet need for innovative research for the efficient clinical management of GC patients. Research over past several years has revealed the enormous promise of miRNAs. These small non-coding RNAs can aid in the diagnosis, prognosis and therapy of all major GCs, viz., ovarian cancers, cervical cancers and endometrial cancers. Mechanistic details of the miRNAs-mediated regulation of multiple biological functions are under constant investigation, and a number of miRNAs are now believed to influence growth, proliferation, invasion, metastasis, chemoresistance and the relapse of different GCs. Modulation of tumor microenvironment by miRNAs can possibly explain some of their reported biological effects. miRNA signatures have been proposed as biomarkers for the early detection of GCs, even the various subtypes of individual GCs. miRNA signatures are also being pursued as predictors of response to therapies. This review catalogs the knowledge gained from collective studies, so as to assess the progress made so far. It is time to ponder over the knowledge gained, so that more meaningful pre-clinical and translational studies can be designed to better realize the potential that miRNAs have to offer.

High expressions of BCL6 and Lewis y antigen are correlated with high tumor burden and poor prognosis in epithelial ovarian cancer

Aberrant regulation of BCL6 plays crucial oncogenic roles in various malignant tumors; howbeit, the function of BCL6 in tumorigenesis of ovarian cancer remains unclear. The aim of this study is to investigate the role of BCL6 in ovarian cancer. The methods of immunohistochemical staining, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, immunocytochemical staining, and gene expression profile enrichment analysis were performed to identify the possible role of BCL6 in ovarian cancer. We observed that the expression of BCL6 was significantly higher in ovarian cancer tissues and correlated with higher tumor burden including advanced International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stages, poor differentiation, Type II ovarian cancer, the presence of >1 cm residual tumor size, and appearance of recurrence or death (all p < 0.05). The expression patterns of Lewis y were similar to these of BCL6. Multivariate Cox analysis demonstrated that advanced International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage, lymph node metastasis, residual tumor size >1 cm, as well as high expressions of BCL6 and Lewis y antigen were independent factors of worse progression-free survival and overall survival (all p < 0.05). There was a positive correlation of the expressions of BCL6 and Lewis y antigen. The associated genes with BCL6 in response to Lewis y antigen were identified, including four upregulated genes ( SOCS3, STAT1, PPARG, and GADD45A) and three downregulated genes ( ACAN, E2F3, and ZBTB7B). In conclusion, the high expressions of BCL6 and Lewis y antigen are associated with development, high tumor burden, and worse prognosis of ovarian cancer and targeting BCL6 could be a novel therapeutic strategy for ovarian cancer treatment.

Gene expression profile analysis in response to α1,2-fucosyl transferase (FUT1) gene transfection in epithelial ovarian carcinoma cells

The aim of this study was to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in response to α1,2-fucosyl transferase (FUT1) gene transfection in epithelial ovarian cancer cells. Human whole-genome oligonucleotide microarrays were used to determine whether gene expression profile may differentiate the epithelial ovarian cell line Caov-3 transfected with FUT1 from the empty plasmid-transfected cells. Quantitative real-time PCR and immunohistochemical staining validated the microarray results. Gene expression profile identified 215 DEGs according to the selection criteria, in which 122 genes were upregulated and 93 genes were downregulated. Gene Ontology (GO) and canonical pathway enrichment analysis were applied, and we found that these DEGs are involved in BioCarta mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway, BioCarta eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4 (EIF4) pathway, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways in cancer. Interaction network analysis predicted genes participating in the regulatory connection. Highly differential expression of TRIM46, PCF11, BCL6, PTEN, and FUT1 genes was validated by quantitative real-time PCR in two cell line samples. Finally, BCL6 and Lewis Y antigen were validated at the protein level by immunohistochemistry in 103 paraffin-embedded ovarian cancer tissues. The identification of genes in response to FUT1 may provide a theoretical basis for the investigations of the molecular mechanism of ovarian cancer.