LncRNA BBOX1-AS1 Aggravates the Development of Ovarian Cancer by Sequestering miR-361-3p to Augment PODXL Expression

BBOX1-AS1 promotes gastric cardia adenocarcinoma progression via interaction with CtBP2 to facilitate the epithelial-mesenchymal transition process

It is recognized that lncRNA BBOX1-AS1 exerts a crucial oncogenic property in several cancer types. However, the functions and underlying mechanisms of BBOX1-AS1 in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process of gastric cardia adenocarcinoma (GCA) have remained unclarified. The findings of this study demonstrated that GCA tissues had elevated BBOX1-AS1 expression levels, which was associated with a worse prognosis in GCA patients. BBOX1-AS1 dramatically enhanced cell proliferation, invasion, and TGF-β1-induced the EMT process in vitro. Further mechanism analysis revealed that BBOX1-AS1 could combine with CtBP2 and strengthen the interaction of CtBP2 and ZEB1. BBOX1-AS1 might regulate the E-cadherin expression through CtBP2/ZEB1 transcriptional complex-mediated transcriptional repression, further affecting the activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and the EMT process. Overall, our findings demonstrate that BBOX1-AS1 might act as an lncRNA associated with EMT for facilitating GCA advancement via interaction with CtBP2 to facilitate the activation of Wnt/β-catenin pathway and the EMT process, which indicated that it might function as an exploitable treatment target for GCA patients.

A review on the role of gamma-butyrobetaine hydroxylase 1 antisense RNA 1 in the carcinogenesis and tumor progression

Gamma-butyrobetaine hydroxylase 1 antisense RNA 1 (BBOX1-AS1), located on human chromosome 11 p14, emerges as a critical player in tumorigenesis with diverse oncogenic effects. Aberrant expression of BBOX1-AS1 intricately regulates various cellular processes, including cell growth, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, migration, invasion, metastasis, cell death, and stemness. Notably, the expression of BBOX1-AS1 was significantly correlated with clinical-pathological characteristics and tumor prognoses, and it could also be used for the diagnosis of lung and esophageal cancers. Through its involvement in the ceRNA network, BBOX1-AS1 competitively binds to eight miRNAs in ten different cancer types. Additionally, BBOX1-AS1 can directly modulate downstream protein-coding genes or act as an mRNA stabilizer. The implications of BBOX1-AS1 extend to critical signaling pathways, including Hedgehog, Wnt/β-catenin, and MELK/FAK pathways. Moreover, it influences drug resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma. The present study provides a systematic review of the clinical significance of BBOX1-AS1's aberrant expression in diverse tumor types. It sheds light on the intricate molecular mechanisms through which BBOX1-AS1 influences cancer initiation and progression and outlines potential avenues for future research in this field.

Long noncoding RNA BBOX1-AS1 increased radiotherapy sensitivity in colorectal cancer by stabilizing and activating PFK1

PURPOSE

Our study explored the effect of long noncoding RNA BBOX1-AS1 on colorectal cancer (CRC) radiosensitivity in vivo and in vitro.

METHODS

Differentially expressed lncRNAs in CRC were screened using a bioinformatics database and an online prediction website. The expression of BBOX1-AS1 in tissue samples was analyzed via real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). Subcellular localization of BBOX1-AS1 in CRC cells was analyzed using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). The correlation between BBOX1-AS1 and PFK1 expression levels in CRC tissues was analyzed via Pearson's correlation coefficient. The effect of BBOX1-AS1 on PFK1 stability was investigated using RNA and protein stability testing. RNA Binding Protein Immunoprecipitation (RIP) and RNA pull-down assays were used to confirm the binding of BBOX1-AS1 to PFK1.

RESULTS

BBOX1-AS1 was highly expressed in CRC and associated with poor prognosis. Similarly, it was highly expressed in CRC tissues and CRC cell lines. In addition, BBOX1-AS1 promoted the proliferation, invasion, migration, and glycolysis of CRC cells and inhibited apoptosis. RIP and RNA pull-down experiments confirmed that BBOX1-AS1 bound to PFK1. RNA stability and protein stability experiments showed that BBOX1-AS1 affected the stability of PFK1 mRNA and protein. Furthermore, we confirmed that BBOX1-AS1 increased radiation resistance through the regulation of PFK1 expression.

CONCLUSIONS

BBOX1-AS1 promoted the proliferation, invasion, migration, and glycolysis of CRC cells through stabilization of the expression of PFK1. BBOX1-AS1 also inhibited CRC cell apoptosis and increased radiotherapy resistance in CRC cells.

BBOX1-AS1: A novel oncogenic long non-coding RNA in human cancers

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are transcripts that contain more than 200 nucleotides. Despite the fact that they cannot encode proteins, many studies have identified roles they play in human cancers through diverse mechanisms. BBOX1-AS1, an oncogenic lncRNA, has recently been demonstrated to participate in tumorigenesis and progression of numerous cancers. Experimental evidence has determined that it participates in diverse biological process, including cell proliferation, invasion, migration, and apoptosis. The dysregulation of BBOX1-AS1 exerts its oncogenicity by acting as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) or by directly impacting downstream molecules and signaling pathways. Here we summarize the current understanding of the biological functions and clinical significance of BBOX1-AS1 for human cancers.

The long non-coding RNA BBOX1 antisense RNA 1 is upregulated in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and suppresses the role of microRNA-19b in the proliferation of ovarian granulose cells : Short title: BBOX1 antisense RNA 1 in cell proliferation

BACKGROUND

MicroRNA-19b (miR-19b) has been reported to be downregulated in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), while its upstream regulators are unclear. We speculated that miR-19b could potentially form a binding relationship with BBOX1 antisense RNA 1 (BBOX1-AS1), a long non-coding RNA recognized for its critical role in ovarian cancer. Subsequently, we investigated into their interaction in PCOS.

METHODS

The expression of miR-19b and BBOX1-AS1 in follicular fluid from both control women (n = 80) and women with PCOS (n = 80) was detected by RT-qPCR. Correlations were analyzed with Pearson' correlation coefficient. The binding of miR-19b to the wild-type (-wt) ad mutant (-mut) BBOX1-AS1 was determined by RNA-RNA pulldown assay. Their interactions were detected by overexpression assay. Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) assay was applied for proliferation analysis.

RESULTS

BBOX1-AS1 was highly upregulated, while miR-19b was downregulated in PCOS. There was no close correlation across PCOS and the control samples. Consistently, they did not regulate the expression of each other in granulosa cells. However, BBOX1-AS1-wt, but not BBOX1-AS1-mut, could directly interact with miR-19b. BBOX1-AS1 suppressed the role of miR-19b in inhibiting granulosa cell proliferation.

CONCLUSION

BBOX1-AS1 is highly upregulated in PCOS, and it may serve as an endogenous competing RNA for miR-19b to suppress its role in inhibiting granulosa cell proliferation. Our study suggested the role of BBOX1-AS1 as a potential target to treat PCOS.

Prognostic effect of lncRNA BBOX1-AS1 in malignancies: a meta-analysis

Background: With the increasing number of new cancer cases and mortality rates, cancer has become a serious global health problem, but there are no ideal cancer biomarkers for effective diagnosis. Currently, mounting evidence demonstrates that lncRNAs play a fundamental role in cancer progression. BBOX1 anti-sense RNA 1 (BBOX1-AS1) is a recently clarified lncRNA and has been identified as dysregulated in various carcinomas, and it contributes to poor survival in cancer patients. Methods: We thoroughly searched six databases for eligible articles published as of 27, April 2023. The association of BBOX1-AS1 expression levels with prognostic and clinicopathological parameters was assessed by odds ratios (OR) and hazard ratios with 95% CIs. Additionally, we further validated our results utilizing the GEPIA online database. Results: Eight studies comprising 602 patients were included in this analysis. High BBOX1-AS1 expression indicated poor overall survival (OS) (hazard ratios = 2.30, 95% Cl [1.99, 2.67], p < 0.00001) when compared with low BBOX1-AS1 expression. Furthermore, BBOX1-AS1 expression was positively correlated with lymph node metastasis (OR = 3.00, 95% CI [1.71-5.28], p = 0.0001) and advanced tumor stage (OR = 3.74, 95% CI [2.63-5.32], p < 0.00001) for cancer patients. Moreover, BBOX1-AS1 was remarkably upregulated in 12 malignancies, and the elevated BBOX1-AS1 expression predicted poorer OS and worse disease-free survival (DFS) confirmed through the GEPIA online gene analysis tool. Conclusion: The findings highlight that BBOX1-AS1 was significantly associated with detrimental overall survival, disease-free survival, lymph node metastasis and tumor stage; thus, it could act as a novel promising biomarker to predict the clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis for various cancers.

Identification of lncRNAs Deregulated in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Based on a Gene Expression Profiling Meta-Analysis

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is one of the deadliest gynecological cancers worldwide, mainly because of its initially asymptomatic nature and consequently late diagnosis. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA) are non-coding transcripts of more than 200 nucleotides, whose deregulation is involved in pathologies such as EOC, and are therefore envisaged as future biomarkers. We present a meta-analysis of available gene expression profiling (microarray and RNA sequencing) studies from EOC patients to identify lncRNA genes with diagnostic and prognostic value. In this meta-analysis, we include 46 independent cohorts, along with available expression profiling data from EOC cell lines. Differential expression analyses were conducted to identify those lncRNAs that are deregulated in (i) EOC versus healthy ovary tissue, (ii) unfavorable versus more favorable prognosis, (iii) metastatic versus primary tumors, (iv) chemoresistant versus chemosensitive EOC, and (v) correlation to specific histological subtypes of EOC. From the results of this meta-analysis, we established a panel of lncRNAs that are highly correlated with EOC. The panel includes several lncRNAs that are already known and even functionally characterized in EOC, but also lncRNAs that have not been previously correlated with this cancer, and which are discussed in relation to their putative role in EOC and their potential use as clinically relevant tools.

LncRNA BBOX1-AS1 targets miR-361-3p/COL1A1 axis to drive the progression of oesophageal carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Oesophageal carcinoma (EC) is one of the types of prevalent malignant cancer in the globe. Many researchers reported the vital role played by long-coding RNAs in EC. In the current research, we investigated the mechanisms of the action of lncRNA BBOX1-AS1 in EC progression.

METHODS

In EC tissues and EC cells, the expression levels of miR-361-3p along with COL1A1 and BBOX1-AS1 were detected through RT-qPCR or western blotting. MiR-361-3p interactions with BBOX1-AS1 or COL1A1 were verified through Luciferase reporter and RIP tests. Loss of function combined with caspase-3 activity, CCK-8 and Transwell assays was performed to investigate cell apoptosis, proliferation and migration, respectively. Knockdown of BBOX1-AS1 was used for evaluating BBOX1-AS1 effects on tumour development in vivo.

RESULTS

BBOX1-AS1 was remarkably elevated in EC tissues and cells. In addition, the silencing of BBOX1-AS1 attenuated the cell viability, cell migration and enhanced cell apoptosis of EC, as well as suppressed EC tumour formation in vivo. Moreover, BBOX1-AS1 was found to be a sponge of miR-361-3p, which downregulated miR-361-3p expression. MiR-361-3p inhibitor rescued the anti-tumour effect of BBOX1-AS1 knockdown on the progression of EC. Furthermore, we discovered that miR-361-3p specially bound to COL1A1 3'UTR and downregulated COL1A1 and COL1A1 reduction declined the promoting effect of silencing miR-361-3p on EC cell malignant phenotypes.

CONCLUSION

BBOX1-AS1 facilitated the EC development and malignancy via miR-361-3p/COL1A1 axis, indicating BBOX1-AS1 could be a novel therapy target for the diagnostic of EC.

The functional role of circular RNAs in the pathogenesis of retinoblastoma: a new potential biomarker and therapeutic target?

Retinoblastoma (RB) is a common cancer in infants and children. It is a curable disease; however, a delayed diagnosis or treatment makes the treatment difficult. Genetic mutations have a central role in the pathogenesis of RB. Genetic materials such as RNAs (coding and non-coding RNAs) are also involved in the progression of the tumor. Circular RNA (circRNA) is the most recently identified RNA and is involved in regulating gene expression mainly through "microRNA sponges". The dysregulation of circRNAs has been observed in several diseases and tumors. Also, various studies have shown that circRNAs expression is changed in RB tissues. Due to their role in the pathogenesis of the disease, circRNAs might be helpful as a diagnostic or prognostic biomarker in patients with RB. In addition, circRNAs could be a suitable therapeutic target to treat RB in a targeted therapy approach.

Low gamma-butyrobetaine dioxygenase (BBOX1) expression as a prognostic biomarker in patients with clear cell renal cell carcinoma: a machine learning approach

Gamma-butyrobetaine dioxygenase (BBOX1) is a catalyst for the conversion of gamma-butyrobetaine to l-carnitine, which is detected in normal renal tubules. The purpose of this study was to analyze the prognosis, immune response, and genetic alterations associated with low BBOX1 expression in patients with clear cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC). We analyzed the relative influence of BBOX1 on survival using machine learning and investigated drugs that can inhibit renal cancer cells with low BBOX1 expression. We analyzed clinicopathologic factors, survival rates, immune profiles, and gene sets according to BBOX1 expression in a total of 857 patients with kidney cancer from the Hanyang University Hospital cohort (247 cases) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (610 cases). We employed immunohistochemical staining, gene set enrichment analysis, in silico cytometry, pathway network analyses, in vitro drug screening, and gradient boosting machines. BBOX1 expression in RCC was decreased compared with that in normal tissues. Low BBOX1 expression was associated with poor prognosis, decreased CD8+ T cells, and increased neutrophils. In gene set enrichment analyses, low BBOX1 expression was related to gene sets with oncogenic activity and a weak immune response. In pathway network analysis, BBOX1 was linked to regulation of various T cells and programmed death-ligand 1. In vitro drug screening showed that midostaurin, BAY-61-3606, GSK690693, and linifanib inhibited the growth of RCC cells with low BBOX1 expression. Low BBOX1 expression in patients with RCC is related to short survival time and reduced CD8+ T cells; midostaurin, among other drugs, may have enhanced therapeutic effects in this context.

LncRNA BBOX1-AS1 Contributes to the Progression of Esophageal Carcinoma by Targeting the miR-361-3p/COL5A1 Axis

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are known to participate in the progression of several cancers, including esophageal carcinoma (EC), a common malignancy of the digestive system. Although the role of the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA regulatory network is crucial for the growth and progression of EC, the regulation of lncRNA BBOX1-AS1 (BBOX1 antisense RNA1) remains unclear. We performed reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) and western blotting to evaluate miR-361-3p, collagen type V alpha 1 chain (COL5A1), and BBOX1-AS1 expression levels in EC cells and tissues. The colony formation assay (CFA) and Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) were employed to identify EC cell proliferation, while western blotting was used to examine EC cell apoptosis and Bax and Bcl-2 expression levels. The effect of BBOX1-AS1 on EC proliferation was determined using an in vivo carcinogenesis assay. Correlation between COL5A1, BBOX1-AS1, and miR-361-3p was examined using the luciferase reporter system and RNA immunoprecipitation assay (RIP). Herein, we observed that BBOX1-AS1 expression levels were upregulated in EC cells and tissues. BBOX1-AS1 knockdown inhibited EC cell proliferation and conferred a pro-apoptotic effect. These results indicated a positive interaction between BBOX1-AS1 and miR-361-3p in EC and a negative association with miR-361-3p. COL5A1 was recognized as a downstream miR-361-3p target and was inversely related to miR-361-3p in EC. Therefore, BBOX1-AS1 expression suppressed cell apoptosis and promoted cell proliferation via the downregulation of miR-361-3p and upregulation of COL5A1 expression. Overall, BBOX1-AS1 facilitates EC progression via the miR-361-3p or COL5A1 axis, indicating that BBOX1-AS1 might be a potential therapeutic target for EC therapy.

LncRNA BBOX1-AS1 promotes pituitary adenoma progression via sponging miR-361-3p/E2F1 axis

Pituitary adenoma is one of the most common intracranial tumors, more and more studies have shown that long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) plays a very important role in pituitary adenoma. However, there are few reports on the function of lncRNA BBOX1-AS1 in pituitary adenomas, and further exploration is needed. The objective of this research is to figure out what function BBOX1-AS1 plays in pituitary adenoma and how it regulates it. The expression of the E2F1, miR-361-3p and BOX1-AS1 genes was measured using a quantitative real-time PCR method. The functional involvement of BBOX1-AS1 in pituitary adenoma was examined utilizing the Transwell assay, western blot assays and the cell counting kit-8. RNA immunoprecipitation and luciferase reporter assays revealed that miR-361-3p binds to E2F1 or BBOX1-AS1. In addition, in-vivo assays were carried out. The expression of BBOX1-AS1 in pituitary adenoma tissues and cells has been increased, according to our findings. Furthermore, it is also noted that downregulation of BBOX1-AS1causes the inhibition of pituitary adenoma cells which result in invasion, apoptosis and proliferation, as well as boosting tumor development in vivo . In addition, BBOX1-AS1 knockdown inhibited tumor development in vivo . We identify BBOX1-AS1 bind to miR-361-3p and to suppress its expression in a negative way. Moreover, miR-361-3p has been shown to bind with E2F1 and inhibit its expression. E2F1 also corrected miR-361-3p-mediated cell invasion, proliferation and apoptosis in BBOX1-AS1-dysregulated pituitary adenoma cells in rescue tests. BBOX1-AS1 increases pituitary adenoma malignant activity by sponging miR-361-3p to upregulate E2F1 expression, which may lead to a new path in pituitary adenoma therapeutic attempts.

Long non-coding RNA BBOX1-AS1 exacerbates esophageal squamous cell carcinoma development by regulating HOXB7/β-catenin axis

Mounting evidence suggests that long non-coding RNAs play a critical role in the occurrence and development of human malignancies. Nonetheless, it remains unknown whether Gamma-Butyrobetaine Hydroxylase 1-Antisense RNA 1 (BBOX1-AS1) participates in the regulation of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) carcinogenesis. Herein, we validated that BBOX1-AS1 was notably overexpressed in ESCC tissues compared to the adjacent non-tumor tissues and significantly correlated with tumor sizes. BBOX1-AS1 enhanced the malignant behavior of ESCC cells in vitro, such as cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. In addition, knockdown of BBOX1-AS1 augmented the proportion of apoptotic cells in ESCC cells. Mechanistically, BBOX1-AS1 regulated HOXB7 expression, and rescue experiments indicated that silencing of HOXB7 could abolish the malignant phenotypes mediated by BBOX1-AS1 to a certain extent. Moreover, HOXB7 participated in the activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. In summary, our findings substantiated that BBOX1-AS1 could activate the Wnt/β-catenin pathway by upregulating HOXB7 expression to promote ESCC progression, providing a rationale to develop novel therapeutic approaches.

Long non-coding RNA BBOX1-antisense RNA 1 enhances cell proliferation and migration and suppresses apoptosis in oral squamous cell carcinoma via the miR-3940-3p/laminin subunit gamma 2 axis

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play an essential role in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). We aimed to demonstrate the effects of lncRNA gamma-butyrobetaine hydroxylase 1 (BBOX1)-antisense RNA 1 (AS1) in OSCC and its regulatory mechanisms. The levels of BBOX1-AS1, microRNA (miR)-3940-3p, and laminin subunit gamma 2 (LAMC2) in OSCC were determined using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The correlations among BBOX1-AS1, miR-3940-3p, and LAMC2 were validated using luciferase, pull-down, and RNA immunoprecipitation assays. Cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis were examined. BBOX1-AS1 and LAMC2 were notably overexpressed in OSCC, while miR-3940-3p showed the opposite trend. BBOX-1-AS1 silencing reduced the cell proliferation and migration, while promoting apoptosis. Mechanistically, BBOX1-AS1 modulates LAMC2 expression by competitively binding to miR-3940-3p. miR-3940-3p inhibition alleviated the inhibitory effects of BBOX1-AS1 deficiency on OSCC development. LAMC2 knockdown reversed these changes. Our results revealed that BBOX1-AS1 promotes the malignant phenotype of OSCC cells via the upregulation of LAMC2 expression by targeting miR-3940-3p, indicating that BBOX1-AS1 may be a novel target for OSCC intervention.

Long noncoding RNA BBOX1-AS1 promotes the progression of gastric cancer by regulating the miR-361-3p/Mucin 13 signaling axis

Gastric cancer (GC) places a heavy burden on global health, and the information on the molecular mechanism of the progression of GC is still inadequate. Long noncoding RNA (LncRNA) has been confirmed to be widely involved in regulating the progression of GC. Our aim in this study was to explore the role and potential regulatory mechanism of lncRNA BBOX1-AS1 in GC. The expression levels of BBOX1-AS1, miR-361-3p, and MUC13 in GC tissues and cells were evaluated using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. The silencer of BBOX1 antisense RNA 1 (BBOX1-AS1) and mucin 13 (MUC13), the mimics and inhibitor of miR-361-3p, and their negative controls were used to alter the expression of these genes. Luciferase reporter, pull-down, and RNA immunoprecipitation assays were performed to verify the correlation between miR-361-3p, BBOX1-AS1, and MUC13. GC cell proliferation, invasion, and apoptosis were detected by cell counting kit-8, transwell, and flow cytometry assays, respectively. An in vivo functional experiment was performed to assess the effect of BBOX1-AS1 on GC. The results showed that BBOX1-AS1 was significantly upregulated in GC tissues. Silencing of BBOX1-AS1 inhibited GC cell proliferation and invasion and inhibited tumor growth in vivo, whereas it promoted apoptosis. MiR-361-3p was significantly downregulated in GC and counteracted the inhibitory effects of BBOX1-AS1 on GC progression. MUC13, which is targeted by miR-361-3p, is significantly upregulated in GC. MUC13 silencing inhibited GC progression was aborgated by miR-361-3p inhibitor. Collectively, BBOX1-AS1 silencing inhibits GC progression by regulating the miR-361-3p/MUC13 axis, providing a potential therapeutic biomarker for GC.

Long non-coding RNA BBOX1 antisense RNA 1 increases the apoptosis of granulosa cells in premature ovarian failure by sponging miR-146b

Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) BBOX1 antisense RNA 1 (BBOX1-AS1) was reported to participate in ovarian cancer, while its role in other ovarian disorders is unclear. We speculated that BBOX1-AS1 could interact with microRNA(miR)-146b, which is involved in premature ovarian failure (POF). This study was therefore carried out to explore its role in POF. In this study, 60 patients with POF and 60 controls were enrolled. The expression of BBOX1-AS1 and miR-146b were analyzed by RT-qPCRs. The direct interaction between miR-146b and the wild type BBOX1-AS1 (BBOX1-AS1-WT) or mutant BBOX1-AS1 (BBOX1-AS1-mut) was explored with RNA-RNA pulldown assay. Subcellular location of BBOX1-AS1 in COV434 granulosa cells was detected by subcellular fractionation. The role of BBOX1-AS1 and miR-146b in the apoptosis of COV434 cells was evaluated by cell apoptosis assay. Overexpression assay was applied to explore the relationship between BBOX1-AS1 and miR-146b. We found that the expression levels of BBOX1-AS1 were increased, while the expression levels of miR-146b were decreased in POF patients. BBOX1-AS1-WT, but not BBOX1-AS1-mut, directly interacted with miR-146b. BBOX1-AS1 was detected in both nucleus and cytoplasm, while they did not affect the expression of each other. BBOX1-AS1 suppressed the role of miR-146b in cell apoptosis. Therefore, BBOX1-AS1 may increase the apoptosis of granulosa cells in POF by sponging miR-146b.

BBOX1-AS1 Accelerates Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Progression by Sponging miR-3940-3p and Enhancing KPNA2 Upregulation

Background

Upregulation of lncRNA BBOX1 antisense RNA 1 (BBOX1-AS1) has been examined in various tumors. However, its role in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) remains poorly understood.

Methods

RT-qPCR was performed to measure the expression of BBOX1-AS1, KPNA2, and miR-3940-3p. In vitro assays were performed to determine the alteration of cell phenotypes in NPC cells upon transfection or co-transfection with sh-BBOX1-AS1, sh-KPNA2, or miR-3940-3p inhibitor. The BBOX1-AS1-miR-3940-3p and miR-3940-3p-KPNA2 interplay was verified via luciferase reporter and RNA pull-down assays.

Results

High BBOX1-AS1 levels were detected in the nasopharyngeal carcinoma tissues. BBOX1-AS1 silencing considerably suppressed the proliferative, migratory, and invasive abilities of NPC cells in vitro. Interestingly, BBOX1-AS1 could specifically bind to miR-3940-3 and abrogate the inhibition of KPNA2 induced by miR-3940-3. Additionally, analysis of tissue samples showed that miR-3940-3 was inversely correlated with BBOX1-AS1 and KPNA2.

Conclusion

Our findings revealed that the BBOX1-AS1/miR-3940-3/KPNA2 axis is pro-oncogenic in NPC progression, uncovering novel insights into targeted therapy for this disorder.

Clinical significance and effect of lncRNA BBOX1-AS1 on the proliferation and migration of lung squamous cell carcinoma

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have a role in the occurrence and development of lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC). lncRNA γ-butyrobetaine hydroxylase 1 (BBOX1)-antisense 1 (AS1) may contribute to disease development. However, there are no studies on the role of BBOX1-AS1 in LUSC to date. In the present study, an in-house gene microarray analysis was performed to detect the differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs between three pairs of LUSC and normal lung tissues. Only one lncRNA, BBOX1-AS1, was differentially expressed in the in-house microarray and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and ArrayExpress databases. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was then performed and the original RNA-sequencing data from the TCGA, GEO and ArrayExpress datasets were used to determine the expression and clinical value of BBOX1-AS1 in LUSC. In addition, a Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, cell cycle analysis and scratch assay were performed to explore whether BBOX1-AS1 expression affected the proliferation and migration of LUSC cells in vitro. The results of the RT-qPCR analysis and data obtained from the TCGA database, GEO datasets, in-house gene microarray and standard mean deviation analysis all supported the upregulated expression level of BBOX1-AS1 in LUSC. Furthermore, silencing of BBOX1-AS1 inhibited the proliferation and migration of LUSC cells according to in vitro assays. In addition, the cells were arrested in S-phase after knockdown of BBOX1-AS1. In conclusion, the expression level of BBOX1-AS1 was upregulated in LUSC tissues. BBOX1-AS1 may exert an oncogenic effect on LUSC by regulating various biological functions. However, additional functional experiments should be performed to verify the exact mechanism.

Identification of circ_0058357 as a regulator in non-small cell lung cancer cells resistant to cisplatin by miR-361-3p/ABCC1 axis

Background

Drug resistance is a major clinical drawback behind the failure of chemotherapy in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In this study, we undertook to identify the precise role of circular RNA (circRNA) circ_0058357 in the functional properties of DDP‐resistant NSCLC cells.

Methods

Circ_0058357, miR‐361‐3p and ATP‐binding cassette (ABC) subfamily C member 1 (ABCC1) were quantified by qRT‐PCR and western blot. Cell survival and viability were gauged by MTT assay. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion and migration were measured by EdU, flow cytometry, transwell and wound‐healing assays, respectively. The direct relationship between miR‐361‐3p and circ_0058357 or ABCC1 was validated by dual‐luciferase reporter assay.

Results

Our data showed that circ_0058357 was highly expressed in DDP‐resistant NSCLC tissues and cells. Inhibition of circ_0058357 repressed cell growth, invasion, migration, and promoted DDP sensitivity and cell apoptosis of H1299/DDP and A549/DDP cells in vitro. Moreover, inhibition of circ_0058357 diminished the growth of A549/DDP cells and sensitized them to the cytotoxic effect of DDP in vivo. Mechanistically, circ_0058357 contained a miR‐361‐3p binding site and miR‐361‐3p was identified as a molecular mediator of circ_0058357 regulation. MiR‐361‐3p suppressed ABCC1 expression by binding to ABCC1 3′UTR, and miR‐361‐3p‐mediated inhibition of ABCC1 affected the growth, invasion, migration, apoptosis and DDP sensitivity of H1299/DDP and A549/DDP cells. Furthermore, circ_0058357 regulated ABCC1 expression by competitively binding to shared miR‐361‐3p.

Conclusions

Our findings identified that inhibition of circ_0058357 suppresses the growth and metastasis of H1299/DDP and A549/DDP cells and sensitizes them to DDP therapy partially by targeting the miR‐361‐3p/ABCC1 axis.

Interference of long non-coding RNA HAGLROS inhibits the proliferation and promotes the apoptosis of ovarian cancer cells by targeting miR-26b-5p

Ovarian cancer (OV) is the fifth most common type of cancer affecting women worldwide. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) serve essential roles in the progression of OV. As such, the present study aimed to investigate the specific role of HAGLR opposite strand lncRNA (HAGLROS) in OV and the underlying mechanism of action through which HAGLROS exerts its effects on OV cells. In the present study, the expression of HAGLROS in several OV cell lines was first detected using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. HAGLROS was then silenced to evaluate cell viability, proliferation and apoptosis, which were determined using Cell Counting Kit-8, colony formation and TUNEL assays, respectively. Additionally, immunofluorescence staining and western blotting were used to confirm the expression profile of proliferation- and apoptosis-related proteins. Moreover, a dual luciferase reporter assay was used to verify the potential interactions between HAGLROS and microRNA (miR)-26b-5p. Subsequently, rescue assays were performed to investigate the effects of HAGLROS and miR-26b-5p on OV progression. The results indicated that HAGLROS was highly expressed in OV cells. Interference of HAGLROS led to a decrease in the proliferation, but an increase in the apoptosis of OV cells, accompanied by downregulated expression levels of Ki67 and Bcl-2, and upregulated expression levels of Bax and cleaved caspase-3. Further study revealed that HAGLROS acted as a sponge for miR-26b-5p and positively regulated its expression. miR-26b-5p inhibitor transfection partially reversed the effects of HAGLROS knockdown on the proliferation and apoptosis of OV cells. In conclusion, the results of the present study suggested that interference of HAGLROS suppressed the proliferation and promoted the apoptosis of OV cells through regulating miR-26b-5p, indicating that HAGLROS may be a promising biomarker in OV diagnosis and treatment.

The LINC00922 aggravates ovarian cancer progression via sponging miR-361-3p

Background

Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) LINC00922 has been reported to promote tumorigenesis of lung and breast cancer. However, the functions and mechanisms of LINC00922 in ovarian cancer (OC) remain unclarified. The current study aims to clarify the detailed functions and underlying mechanisms of LINC00922 in the progression of OC.

Methods

LINC00922 expression in OC tissues and cells was identified by a comprehensive strategy of data miming, computational biology and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) experiment. In vitro CCK-8, wound healing, transwell invasion, western blotting and in vivo tumorigenesis assays LINC00922 were conducted to evaluate the functions of LINC00992. Subsequently, bioinformatics technology and dual luciferase reporter assay were performed to confirm the between miR-361-3p and LINC00922 or CLDN1. Finally, rescue experiments were performed to confirm whether LINC00922 effect functions of OC cells through regulation of miR-361-3p.

Results

LINC00922 was significantly upregulated in OC tissues and cell lines, which is significantly positively corelated with the poor prognosis of patients with OC. LINC00922 knockdown inhibited proliferation and tumorigenesis of OC cells in vitro and vivo. In addition, LINC00922 knockdown suppressed migration, invasion, and EMT of OC cells in vitro. Mechanically, LINC00922 could competitively bind with miR-361-3p to relieve the repressive effect of miR-361-3p on its target gene CLDN1 in OC cells. In addition, silencing miR-361-3p promoted OC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, EMT and Wnt/β-catenin signaling, while LINC00922 knockdown inhibited Wnt/β-catenin signaling by upregulating miR-361-3p. Rescue experiments revealed that LINC00922 knockdown inhibited OC cell proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT by regulating miR-361-3p.

Conclusion

This study suggested that LINC00922 could competitively bind with miR-361-3p to promote the CLDN1 expression and activate Wnt/β-catenin signaling in OC progression, which providing a promising therapeutically target for OC.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13048-021-00828-7.

KLF5-induced BBOX1-AS1 contributes to cell malignant phenotypes in non-small cell lung cancer via sponging miR-27a-5p to up-regulate MELK and activate FAK signaling pathway

Background

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a major histological subtype of lung cancer with high mortality and morbidity. A substantial amount of evidence demonstrates long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA) as critical regulators in tumorigeneis and malignant progression of human cancers. The oncogenic role of BBOX1 anti-sense RNA 1 (BBOX1-AS1) has been reported in several tumors. As yet, the potential functions and mechanisms of BBOX1-AS1 in NSCLC are obscure.

Methods

The gene and protein expression was detected by qRT-PCR and western blot. Cell function was determined by CCK-8, colony forming, would healing and transwell assays. Bioinformatics tools, ChIP assays, dual luciferase reporters system and RNA pull-down experiments were used to examine the interaction between molecules. Subcutaneous tumor models in nude mice were established to investigate in vivo NSCLC cell behavior.

Results

BBOX1-AS1 was highly expressed in NSCLC tissues and cells. High BBOX1-AS1 expression was associated with worse clinical parameters and poor prognosis. BBOX1-AS1 up-regulation was induced by transcription factor KLF5. BBOX1-AS1 deficiency resulted in an inhibition of cell proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT in vitro. Also, knockdown of BBOX1-AS1 suppressed NSCLC xenograft tumor growth in mice in vivo. Mechanistically, BBOX1-AS1 acted act as a competetive “sponge” of miR-27a-5p to promote maternal embryonic leucine zipper kinase (MELK) expression and activate FAK signaling. miR-27a-5p was confirmed as a tumor suppressor in NSCLC. Moreover, BBOX1-AS1-induced increase of cell proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT was greatly reversed due to the overexpression of miR-27a-5p. In addition, the suppressive effect of NSCLC progression owing to BBOX1-AS1 depletion was abated by the up-regulation of MELK. Consistently, BBOX1-AS1-mediated carcinogenicity was attenuated in NSCLC after treatment with a specific MELK inhibitor OTSSP167.

Conclusions

KLF5-induced BBOX1-AS1 exerts tumor-promotive roles in NSCLC via sponging miR-27a-5p to activate MELK/FAK signaling, providing the possibility of employing BBOX1-AS1 as a therapeutic target for NSCLC patients.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13046-021-01943-5.