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Hedayati N, Mafi A, Farahani A, Hashemi M, Nabavi N, Alimohammadi M, Rahimzadeh P, Taheriazam A, Farahani N. The importance of the circRNA/Wnt axis in gliomas: Biological functions and clinical opportunities. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 261:155510. [PMID: 39116573 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2024] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Gliomas are among the most common cancers in the central nervous system, arising through various signaling pathways. One significant pathway is Wnt signaling, a tightly regulated process that plays a crucial role in gliomagenesis and development. The current study aims to explore the relationship between circular RNAs (circRNAs) and the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in gliomas, considering the growing recognition of circRNAs in disease pathogenesis. A comprehensive review of recent research was conducted to investigate the roles of circRNAs in gliomas, focusing on their expression patterns and interactions with the Wnt signaling pathway. The analysis included studies examining circRNAs' function as microRNA sponges and their impact on glioma biology. The findings reveal that circRNAs are differentially expressed in gliomas and significantly influence the occurrence, growth, and metastasis of these tumors. Specifically, circRNAs interact with the Wnt signaling pathway, affecting glioma development and progression. This interaction highlights the importance of circRNAs in glioma pathophysiology. Understanding the regulatory network involving circRNAs and Wnt signaling offers valuable insights into glioma pathophysiology. CircRNAs hold promise as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers and may serve as targets for novel therapeutic strategies in glioma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neda Hedayati
- School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Mafi
- Nutrition and Food Security Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran; Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Aryan Farahani
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Hashemi
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Noushin Nabavi
- Independent Researcher, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Mina Alimohammadi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Payman Rahimzadeh
- Surgical Research Society (SRS), Students' Scientific Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Afshin Taheriazam
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Orthopedics, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Najma Farahani
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
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Youness RA, Hassan HA, Abaza T, Hady AA, El Magdoub HM, Ali M, Vogel J, Thiersch M, Gassmann M, Hamdy NM, Aboouf MA. A Comprehensive Insight and In Silico Analysis of CircRNAs in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Step toward ncRNA-Based Precision Medicine. Cells 2024; 13:1245. [PMID: 39120276 PMCID: PMC11312109 DOI: 10.3390/cells13151245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are cardinal players in numerous physiological and pathological processes. CircRNAs play dual roles as tumor suppressors and oncogenes in different oncological contexts, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Their roles significantly impact the disease at all stages, including initiation, development, progression, invasion, and metastasis, in addition to the response to treatment. In this review, we discuss the biogenesis and regulatory functional roles of circRNAs, as well as circRNA-protein-mRNA ternary complex formation, elucidating the intricate pathways tuned by circRNAs to modulate gene expression and cellular processes through a comprehensive literature search, in silico search, and bioinformatics analysis. With a particular focus on the interplay between circRNAs, epigenetics, and HCC pathology, the article sets the stage for further exploration of circRNAs as novel investigational theranostic agents in the dynamic realm of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana A. Youness
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), Cairo 11835, Egypt; (R.A.Y.); (H.A.H.); (T.A.)
| | - Hossam A. Hassan
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), Cairo 11835, Egypt; (R.A.Y.); (H.A.H.); (T.A.)
| | - Tasneem Abaza
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), Cairo 11835, Egypt; (R.A.Y.); (H.A.H.); (T.A.)
- Biotechnology Program, Institute of Basic and Applied Sciences (BAS), Egypt-Japan University of Science and Technology (E-JUST), New Borg El-Arab City 21934, Egypt
| | - Ahmed A. Hady
- Clinical Oncology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35511, Egypt;
| | - Hekmat M. El Magdoub
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Misr International University, Cairo 19648, Egypt;
| | - Mohamed Ali
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA;
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt
| | - Johannes Vogel
- Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology and Institute of V. Physiology, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (J.V.); (M.T.); (M.G.)
| | - Markus Thiersch
- Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology and Institute of V. Physiology, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (J.V.); (M.T.); (M.G.)
| | - Max Gassmann
- Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology and Institute of V. Physiology, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (J.V.); (M.T.); (M.G.)
| | - Nadia M. Hamdy
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Abassia, Cairo 11566, Egypt
| | - Mostafa A. Aboouf
- Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology and Institute of V. Physiology, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (J.V.); (M.T.); (M.G.)
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Abassia, Cairo 11566, Egypt
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Lan S, Zhong G. Identification of a novel survival and immune microenvironment related ceRNA regulatory network for hepatocellular carcinoma based on circHECTD1. Heliyon 2024; 10:e33763. [PMID: 39040406 PMCID: PMC11261882 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e33763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Background CircHECTD1 (circ_0031450) is highly expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissues and may act as an oncogene. Its specific competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) mechanism remains to be further elucidated. Methods Several databases and online platforms, including pathway activity, immune checkpoint, and overall survival analyses, were used to predict targets, download datasets, and perform online analyses. The R software was used for differential gene expression analysis, Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), clinical relevance, receiver operator characteristic curve, and single-cell analysis. Cytoscape software was used to construct ceRNAs, protein-protein interactions (PPI), and pivotal networks. Results The ceRNA, PPI, and pivotal networks were successfully constructed. Pathway enrichment analysis was mainly related to apoptosis, cell cycle, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) pathways. Six pivotal targets related to survival, immune infiltration, immune checkpoints, clinical stage, and diagnosis of patients with HCC were identified. The recovery function and pathway enrichment results were consistent with previous results. Single-cell analysis suggested that the pivotal targets were highly expressed in T cells. Conclusion We successfully constructed a prognosis and immune microenvironment-related ceRNA network based on circHECTD1, providing new insights for diagnosing and treating HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuiqing Lan
- Department of Pain Management, The Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, Guangxi, 533000, China
| | - Guoqiang Zhong
- The Graduate School, Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, Guangxi, 533000, China
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Almalki WH, Almujri SS. The dual roles of circRNAs in Wnt/β-Catenin signaling and cancer progression. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 255:155132. [PMID: 38335783 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Cancer, a complex pathophysiological condition, arises from the abnormal proliferation and survival of cells due to genetic mutations. Dysregulation of cell cycle control, apoptosis, and genomic stability contribute to uncontrolled growth and metastasis. Tumor heterogeneity, microenvironmental influences, and immune evasion further complicate cancer dynamics. The intricate interplay between circular RNAs (circRNAs) and the Wnt/β-Catenin signalling pathway has emerged as a pivotal axis in the landscape of cancer biology. The Wnt/β-Catenin pathway, a critical regulator of cell fate and proliferation, is frequently dysregulated in various cancers. CircRNAs, a class of non-coding RNAs with closed-loop structures, have garnered increasing attention for their diverse regulatory functions. This review systematically explores the intricate crosstalk between circRNAs and the Wnt/β-Catenin pathway, shedding light on their collective impact on cancer initiation and progression. The review explores the diverse mechanisms through which circRNAs modulate the Wnt/β-Catenin pathway, including sponging microRNAs, interacting with RNA-binding proteins, and influencing the expression of key components in the pathway. Furthermore, the review highlights specific circRNAs implicated in various cancer types, elucidating their roles as either oncogenic or tumour-suppressive players in the context of Wnt/β-Catenin signaling. The intricate regulatory networks formed by circRNAs in conjunction with the Wnt/β-Catenin pathway are discussed, providing insights into potential therapeutic targets and diagnostic biomarkers. This comprehensive review delves into the multifaceted roles of circRNAs in orchestrating tumorigenesis through their regulatory influence on the Wnt/β-Catenin pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waleed Hassan Almalki
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Salem Salman Almujri
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha 61421, Aseer, Saudi Arabia
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Gajos-Michniewicz A, Czyz M. WNT/β-catenin signaling in hepatocellular carcinoma: The aberrant activation, pathogenic roles, and therapeutic opportunities. Genes Dis 2024; 11:727-746. [PMID: 37692481 PMCID: PMC10491942 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2023.02.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a liver cancer, highly heterogeneous both at the histopathological and molecular levels. It arises from hepatocytes as the result of the accumulation of numerous genomic alterations in various signaling pathways, including canonical WNT/β-catenin, AKT/mTOR, MAPK pathways as well as signaling associated with telomere maintenance, p53/cell cycle regulation, epigenetic modifiers, and oxidative stress. The role of WNT/β-catenin signaling in liver homeostasis and regeneration is well established, whereas in development and progression of HCC is extensively studied. Herein, we review recent advances in our understanding of how WNT/β-catenin signaling facilitates the HCC development, acquisition of stemness features, metastasis, and resistance to treatment. We outline genetic and epigenetic alterations that lead to activated WNT/β-catenin signaling in HCC. We discuss the pivotal roles of CTNNB1 mutations, aberrantly expressed non-coding RNAs and complexity of crosstalk between WNT/β-catenin signaling and other signaling pathways as challenging or advantageous aspects of therapy development and molecular stratification of HCC patients for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Gajos-Michniewicz
- Department of Molecular Biology of Cancer, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz 92-215, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Czyz
- Department of Molecular Biology of Cancer, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz 92-215, Poland
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Xue W, Yang L, Chen C, Ashrafizadeh M, Tian Y, Sun R. Wnt/β-catenin-driven EMT regulation in human cancers. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:79. [PMID: 38334836 PMCID: PMC10857981 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-05099-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Metastasis accounts for 90% of cancer-related deaths among the patients. The transformation of epithelial cells into mesenchymal cells with molecular alterations can occur during epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). The EMT mechanism accelerates the cancer metastasis and drug resistance ability in human cancers. Among the different regulators of EMT, Wnt/β-catenin axis has been emerged as a versatile modulator. Wnt is in active form in physiological condition due to the function of GSK-3β that destructs β-catenin, while ligand-receptor interaction impairs GSK-3β function to increase β-catenin stability and promote its nuclear transfer. Regarding the oncogenic function of Wnt/β-catenin, its upregulation occurs in human cancers and it can accelerate EMT-mediated metastasis and drug resistance. The stimulation of Wnt by binding Wnt ligands into Frizzled receptors can enhance β-catenin accumulation in cytoplasm that stimulates EMT and related genes upon nuclear translocation. Wnt/β-catenin/EMT axis has been implicated in augmenting metastasis of both solid and hematological tumors. The Wnt/EMT-mediated cancer metastasis promotes the malignant behavior of tumor cells, causing therapy resistance. The Wnt/β-catenin/EMT axis can be modulated by upstream mediators in which non-coding RNAs are main regulators. Moreover, pharmacological intervention, mainly using phytochemicals, suppresses Wnt/EMT axis in metastasis suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhua Xue
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Lin Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xianyang Central Hospital, Xianyang, 712000, Shaanxi, China
| | - Chengxin Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Milad Ashrafizadeh
- Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Yu Tian
- School of Public Health, Benedictine University, Lisle, USA.
| | - Ranran Sun
- Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
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7
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Zhang L, He S, Guan H, Zhao Y, Zhang D. Circulating RNA ZFR promotes hepatocellular carcinoma cell proliferation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition process through miR-624-3p/WEE1 axis. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2024; 23:52-63. [PMID: 37516591 DOI: 10.1016/j.hbpd.2023.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common type of primary liver cancer, is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Previous evidence shows that the expression of circulating RNA ZFR (circZFR) is upregulated in HCC tissues. However, the molecular mechanism of circZFR in HCC is unclear. METHODS Quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was employed to detect the expression of circZFR, microRNA-624-3p (miR-624-3p) and WEE1 in HCC tissues and cells. RNase R assay and actinomycin D treatment assay were used to analyze the characteristics of circZFR. For functional analysis, the capacities of colony formation, cell proliferation, cell apoptosis, migration and invasion were assessed by colony formation assay, 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) assay, flow cytometry assay and transwell assay. Western blot was used to examine the protein levels of WEE1 and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related proteins. The interactions between miR-624-3p and circZFR or WEE1 were validated by dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay. Xenograft models were established to determine the role of circZFR in vivo. RESULTS circZFR and WEE1 were upregulated, while miR-624-3p expression was reduced in HCC tissues and cells. circZFR could sponge miR-624-3p, and WEE1 was a downstream gene of miR-624-3p. Knockdown of circZFR significantly reduced the malignant behaviors of HCC and that co-transfection with miR-624-3p inhibitor restored this change. Overexpression of WEE1 abolished the inhibitory effect of miR-624-3p mimic on HCC cells. Mechanistically, circZFR acted as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to regulate WEE1 expression by targeting miR-624-3p. Furthermore, in vivo studies have illustrated that circZFR knockdown inhibited tumor growth. CONCLUSIONS circZFR knockdown reduced HCC cell proliferation, migration and invasion and promoted apoptosis by regulating the miR-624-3p/WEE1 axis, suggesting that the circZFR/miR-624-3p/WEE1 axis might be a potential target for HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710004, China
| | - Sai He
- Department of Breast Cancer, Shaanxi Provincial Cancer Hospital, Xi'an 710000, China
| | - Hao Guan
- Department of General Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710004, China
| | - Yao Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710004, China
| | - Di Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710004, China.
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Meng L, Wu H, Wu J, Ding P, He J, Sang M, Liu L. Mechanisms of immune checkpoint inhibitors: insights into the regulation of circular RNAS involved in cancer hallmarks. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:3. [PMID: 38177102 PMCID: PMC10766988 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06389-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Current treatment strategies for cancer, especially advanced cancer, are limited and unsatisfactory. One of the most substantial advances in cancer therapy, in the last decades, was the discovery of a new layer of immunotherapy approach, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), which can specifically activate immune cells by targeting immune checkpoints. Immune checkpoints are a type of immunosuppressive molecules expressed on immune cells, which can regulate the degree of immune activation and avoid autoimmune responses. ICIs, such as anti-PD-1/PD-L1 drugs, has shown inspiring efficacy and broad applicability across various cancers. Unfortunately, not all cancer patients benefit remarkably from ICIs, and the overall response rates to ICIs remain relatively low for most cancer types. Moreover, the primary and acquired resistance to ICIs pose serious challenges to the clinical application of cancer immunotherapy. Thus, a deeper understanding of the molecular biological properties and regulatory mechanisms of immune checkpoints is urgently needed to improve clinical options for current therapies. Recently, circular RNAs (circRNAs) have attracted increasing attention, not only due to their involvement in various aspects of cancer hallmarks, but also for their impact on immune checkpoints in shaping the tumor immune microenvironment. In this review, we systematically summarize the current status of immune checkpoints in cancer and the existing regulatory roles of circRNAs on immune checkpoints. Meanwhile, we also aim to settle the issue in an evidence-oriented manner that circRNAs involved in cancer hallmarks regulate the effects and resistance of ICIs by targeting immune checkpoints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingjiao Meng
- Department of Tumor Immunotherapy, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050035, China
- Research Center and Tumor Research Institute, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050017, China
| | - Haotian Wu
- The Third Department of Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050011, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Comprehensive Treatment of Gastric Cancer, Shijiazhuang, 050011, China
| | - Jiaxiang Wu
- The Third Department of Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050011, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Comprehensive Treatment of Gastric Cancer, Shijiazhuang, 050011, China
| | - Ping'an Ding
- The Third Department of Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050011, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Comprehensive Treatment of Gastric Cancer, Shijiazhuang, 050011, China
| | - Jinchen He
- The Third Department of Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050011, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Comprehensive Treatment of Gastric Cancer, Shijiazhuang, 050011, China
| | - Meixiang Sang
- Research Center and Tumor Research Institute, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050017, China.
- Science and Education Department, Shanghai Electric Power Hospital, Shanghai, 20050, China.
| | - Lihua Liu
- Department of Tumor Immunotherapy, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050035, China.
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Zhang L, He S, Guan H, Zhao Y, Zhang D. Depletion of circ_0088046 suppressed cell growth and motility of hepatocellular carcinoma via circ_0088046-miR-1299-RTKN2 ceRNA pathway. J Viral Hepat 2023; 30:819-829. [PMID: 37421213 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been verified to be important modulators and therapeutic targets of human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study aims to explore the role and mechanism of circ_0088046 in HCC progression. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), western blot and immunohistochemistry assays were used to detect the mRNA and protein expression of circ_0088046, miR-1299, Rhotekin 2 (RTKN2), Bax, Bcl-2, E-cadherin and Ki-67. Cell proliferation was investigated by 5-Ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) assay and cell colony formation assay. Cell apoptosis rate was measured by flow cytometry. Transwell migration and invasion assays were adopted to assess cell migration and invasion. The molecular target relationship between miR-1299 and circ_0088046 or RTKN2 were analysed by dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation assay. An animal experiment was conducted to demonstrate the effect of circ_0088046 on tumour formation in vivo. High levels of circ_0088046 and RTKN2, and low levels of miR-1299 were displayed in HCC tissues and cells. Circ_0088046 absence repressed cell proliferation, migration and invasion, but boosted apoptosis of HCC cells. MiR-1299 was a target of circ_0088046 and miR-1299 inhibitor restored circ_0088046 silencing-mediated inhibitory impacts on HCC cell malignancy. MiR-1299 could directly target RTKN2, and overexpressed RTKN2 rescued the suppressive effects caused by miR-1299 mimic. In addition, circ_0088046 silencing constrained tumour formation in vivo. Circ_0088046 contributed to HCC cell malignancy via modulating the miR-1299/RTKN2 axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Sai He
- Department of Breast Cancer, Shaanxi Provincial Cancer Hospital, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Hao Guan
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Yao Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Di Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
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Mafi A, Rismanchi H, Malek Mohammadi M, Hedayati N, Ghorbanhosseini SS, Hosseini SA, Gholinezhad Y, Mousavi Dehmordi R, Ghezelbash B, Zarepour F, Taghavi SP, Asemi Z, Alimohammadi M, Mirzaei H. A spotlight on the interplay between Wnt/β-catenin signaling and circular RNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma progression. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1224138. [PMID: 37546393 PMCID: PMC10403753 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1224138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the deadliest cancers due to multifocal development and distant metastasis resulting from late diagnosis. Consequently, new approaches to HCC diagnosis and treatment are required to reduce mortality rates. A large body of evidence suggests that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are important in cancer initiation and progression. Cancer cells release many of these ncRNAs into the blood or urine, enabling their use as a diagnostic tool. Circular RNAs (CircRNAs) are as a members of the ncRNAs that regulate cancer cell expansion, migration, metastasis, and chemoresistance through different mechanisms such as the Wnt/β-catenin Signaling pathway. The Wnt/β-catenin pathway plays prominent roles in several biological processes including organogenesis, stem cell regeneration, and cell survival. Aberrant signaling of both pathways mentioned above could affect the progression and metastasis of many cancers, including HCC. Based on several studies investigated in the current review, circRNAs have an effect on HCC formation and progression by sponging miRNAs and RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) and regulating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Therefore, circRNAs/miRNAs or RBPs/Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway could be considered promising prognostic and therapeutic targets in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Mafi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- Nutrition and Food Security Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Rismanchi
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Neda Hedayati
- School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyedeh Sara Ghorbanhosseini
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Seyed Ali Hosseini
- Research Committee, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti, University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yasaman Gholinezhad
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rohollah Mousavi Dehmordi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Behrooz Ghezelbash
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Zarepour
- School of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | | | - Zatollah Asemi
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Mina Alimohammadi
- Student Research Committee, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Mirzaei
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
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11
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Gu A, Jaijyan DK, Yang S, Zeng M, Pei S, Zhu H. Functions of Circular RNA in Human Diseases and Illnesses. Noncoding RNA 2023; 9:38. [PMID: 37489458 PMCID: PMC10366867 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna9040038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) represent single-stranded RNA species that contain covalently closed 3' and 5' ends that provide them more stability than linear RNA, which has free ends. Emerging evidence indicates that circRNAs perform essential functions in many DNA viruses, including coronaviruses, Epstein-Barr viruses, cytomegalovirus, and Kaposi sarcoma viruses. Recent studies have confirmed that circRNAs are present in viruses, including DNA and RNA viruses, and play various important functions such as evading host immune response, disease pathogenesis, protein translation, miRNA sponges, regulating cell proliferation, and virus replication. Studies have confirmed that circRNAs can be biological signatures or pathological markers for autoimmune diseases, neurological diseases, and cancers. However, our understanding of circRNAs in DNA and RNA viruses is still limited, and functional evaluation of viral and host circRNAs is essential to completely understand their biological functions. In the present review, we describe the metabolism and cellular roles of circRNA, including its roles in various diseases and viral and cellular circRNA functions. Circular RNAs are found to interact with RNA, proteins, and DNA, and thus can modulate cellular processes, including translation, transcription, splicing, and other functions. Circular RNAs interfere with various signaling pathways and take part in vital functions in various biological, physiological, cellular, and pathophysiological processes. We also summarize recent evidence demonstrating cellular and viral circRNA's roles in DNA and RNA viruses in this growing field of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Gu
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, 225 Warren Street, Newark, NJ 070101, USA
| | - Dabbu Kumar Jaijyan
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, 225 Warren Street, Newark, NJ 070101, USA
| | - Shaomin Yang
- Department of Pain Medicine and Shenzhen Municipal Key Laboratory for Pain Medicine, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518052, China
| | - Mulan Zeng
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, 225 Warren Street, Newark, NJ 070101, USA
| | - Shaokai Pei
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, 225 Warren Street, Newark, NJ 070101, USA
| | - Hua Zhu
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, 225 Warren Street, Newark, NJ 070101, USA
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12
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Karami Fath M, Shafieyari S, Ardalani N, Moumivand F, Kaviani Charati H, Zareei M, Mansoori Nia A, Zokaei M, Barati G. Hypoxia-circular RNA crosstalk to promote breast cancer. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 244:154402. [PMID: 36921546 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
The expression of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs), particularly HIF-1, plays a major role in the adaptation of solid tumors to hypoxic conditions. The activation of the HIF pathway results in an expression of genes involved in the promotion of cell growth, proliferation, vascularization, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance. Circular RNA (CircRNA) is considered as a major regulator of gene expression. CircRNAs could regulate the HIF-1 pathway in cancer cells. In addition, they might be regulated by the HIF-1 pathway to promote cancer progression. Therefore, the crosstalk between hypoxia and circRNA might be involved in the pathogenesis of cancers, including breast cancer. In this review, we discussed the function of HIF-related circRNAs in the progression, angiogenesis, metabolic reprogramming, and stemness maintenance of breast cancer. In addition, the correlation between HIF-related circRNAs and clinical features of breast cancer is reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsen Karami Fath
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saba Shafieyari
- Faculty of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Nasim Ardalani
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic Azad University, Sari Branch, Sari, Iran
| | - Farzane Moumivand
- Faculty of Paramedicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Zareei
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic Azad University, Sari Branch, Sari, Iran
| | | | - Maryam Zokaei
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Nutrition Science, Food Science and Technology/National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Veterinary Medicine, Beyza Branch, Islamic Azad University, Beyza, Iran
| | - Ghasem Barati
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran; Stem Cell Technology Research Center, Tehran, Iran.
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13
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Wang J, Zheng L, Hu C, Kong D, Zhou Z, Wu B, Wu S, Fei F, Shen Y. CircZFR promotes pancreatic cancer progression through a novel circRNA-miRNA-mRNA pathway and stabilizing epithelial-mesenchymal transition protein. Cell Signal 2023; 107:110661. [PMID: 36990335 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2023.110661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) ranks third in incidence and seventh in mortality among cancers worldwide. CircZFR has been implicated in various human cancers. Yet, how they affect PC progression is understudied. Herein, we demonstrated that circZFR was upregulated in PC tissues and cells, a feature that was correlated with the poor performance of patients with PC. Functional analyses elucidated that circZFR facilitated cell proliferation and enhanced tumorigenicity of PC. Moreover, we found that circZFR facilitated cell metastasis by differentially regulating the levels of proteins related to epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Mechanistic investigations revealed that circZFR sponged miR-375, thereby upregulating the downstream target gene, GREMLIN2 (GREM2). Additionally, circZFR knockdown resulted in attenuation of the JNK pathway, an effect that was reversed by GREM2 overexpression. Collectively, our findings implicate circZFR as a positive regulator of PC progression through the miR-375/GREM2/JNK axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, No. 1518, Huancheng North Road, Jiaxing 314000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Liping Zheng
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, No. 1518, Huancheng North Road, Jiaxing 314000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chundong Hu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, No. 1518, Huancheng North Road, Jiaxing 314000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Demiao Kong
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, No. 83 EastZhongshan Road, Nanming District, Guiyang, Guizhou 550001, China
| | - Zhongcheng Zhou
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, No. 1518, Huancheng North Road, Jiaxing 314000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Bin Wu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, No. 1518, Huancheng North Road, Jiaxing 314000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shaohan Wu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, No. 1518, Huancheng North Road, Jiaxing 314000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Famin Fei
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, No. 1518, Huancheng North Road, Jiaxing 314000, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Yiyu Shen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, No. 1518, Huancheng North Road, Jiaxing 314000, Zhejiang, China.
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14
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Dawoud A, Ihab Zakaria Z, Hisham Rashwan H, Braoudaki M, Youness RA. Circular RNAs: New layer of complexity evading breast cancer heterogeneity. Noncoding RNA Res 2023; 8:60-74. [PMID: 36380816 PMCID: PMC9637558 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2022.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Advances in high-throughput sequencing techniques and bioinformatic analysis have refuted the "junk" RNA hypothesis that was claimed against non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). Circular RNAs (circRNAs); a class of single-stranded covalently closed loop RNA molecules have recently emerged as stable epigenetic regulators. Although the exact regulatory role of circRNAs is still to be clarified, it has been proven that circRNAs could exert their functions by interacting with other ncRNAs or proteins in their own physiologically authentic environment, regulating multiple cellular signaling pathways and other classes of ncRNAs. CircRNAs have also been reported to exhibit a tissue-specific expression and have been associated with the malignant transformation process of several hematological and solid malignancies. Along this line of reasoning, this review aims to highlight the importance of circRNAs in Breast Cancer (BC), which is ranked as the most prevalent malignancy among females. Notwithstanding the substantial efforts to develop a suitable anticancer therapeutic regimen against the heterogenous BC, inter- and intra-tumoral heterogeneity have resulted in an arduous challenge for drug development research, which in turn necessitates the investigation of other markers to be therapeutically targeted. Herein, the potential of circRNAs as possible diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers have been highlighted together with their possible application as novel therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyaa Dawoud
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, 11835, Cairo, Egypt
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, 11835, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Zeina Ihab Zakaria
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, 11835, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hannah Hisham Rashwan
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, 11835, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Maria Braoudaki
- Clinical, Pharmaceutical, and Biological Science Department, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, AL10 9AB, UK
| | - Rana A. Youness
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, 11835, Cairo, Egypt
- Clinical, Pharmaceutical, and Biological Science Department, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, AL10 9AB, UK
- Biology and Biochemistry Department, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire hosted By Global Academic Foundation, New Administrative Capital, 11586, Cairo, Egypt
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15
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Liu Z, Yang F, Xiao Z, Liu Y. Review of novel functions and implications of circular RNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1093063. [PMID: 36890830 PMCID: PMC9986438 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1093063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most frequent malignancies, with high incidence and mortality. As the majority of HCC patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage and die of recurrence and metastasis, its pathology and new biomarkers are needed. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a large subclass of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) with covalently closed loop structures and abundant, conserved, stable, tissue-specific expression in mammalian cells. CircRNAs exert multiple functions in HCC initiation, growth and progression, serving as promising biomarkers for diagnosis, prognosis and therapeutic targets for this disease. This review briefly describes the biogenesis and biological functions of circRNAs and elucidates the roles of circRNAs in the development and progression of HCC, especially regarding epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), drug resistance and interactions with epigenetic modifications. In addition, this review highlights the implications of circRNAs as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for HCC. We hope to provide novel insight into the roles of circRNAs in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Liu
- Department of Combination of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, School of Medicine, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Fangming Yang
- Department of Digestive Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhun Xiao
- Department of Digestive Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yuexuan Liu
- Department of Combination of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, School of Medicine, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
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16
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circRanGAP1/miR-27b-3p/NRAS Axis may promote the progression of hepatocellular Carcinoma. Exp Hematol Oncol 2022; 11:92. [PMID: 36348379 PMCID: PMC9644583 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-022-00342-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Though circular RNAs (circRNAs) are the key regulators in tumor carcinogenesis, they remain largely unexplored in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods The expression of RanGAP1-derived circRNAs (circ_0063531, circ_0063534, circ_0063513, circ_0063518, circ_0063507, circ_0063723) were evaluated in eight paired HCC and normal tissues, and the correlation between circRanGAP1 (circ_0063531) expression and clinicopathological characteristics in 40 HCC patients was determined. The association between miR-27b-3p and circRanGAP1 or NRAS was predicted using bioinformatics analysis. The expression of circRanGAP1, miR-27b-3p, and NRAS were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The potential oncogenic role of circ-RanGAP1 was assessed using CCK-8, colony formation, transwell assays in vitro, subcutaneous tumor mouse model, vein tail metastatic model, and orthotopically implanted intrahepatic HCC model in vivo. Luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays were used to explore the binding site between miR-27b-3p and circ-RanGAP1 or NRAS. Protein expression was detected using western blotting. The localization of miR-27b-3p and circ-RanGAP1 was investigated using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). The level of immune infiltration was assessed by bioinformatics analysis, flow cytometry, and orthotopically implanted intrahepatic HCC models. Results Here, we found elevated circRanGAP1 in the cells and clinical tissues of patients with HCC. Increased circRanGAP1 levels are associated with enlarged tumors and the advanced stage of TNM. CircRanGAP1 promotes the growth, migration, and HCC cell invasion, concurrently with the growth and metastasis of tumors in-vivo. Moreover, circRanGAP1 is mainly located inside the cytoplasm. Mechanistically, circRanGAP1 as an oncogene promotes HCC progression by miR-27b-3p/NRAS/ERK axis, furthermore, affects the infiltration level of tumor-associated macrophages probably by sponging miR-27b-3p. Immune infiltration analysis shows that NRAS is positively correlated with the levels of CD68+ tumor-associated macrophages in HCC samples and that NRAS and CD68 are related to the poor outcome of HCC. Conclusion These results reveal that circRanGAP1 is a HCC oncogene that function by the miR-27b-3p/NRAS/ERK axis and regulates the infiltration levels of tumor-associated macrophages by sponging miR-27b-3p. Therefore, circRANGAP1/ NRAS axis may be an important potential treatment target against HCC. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40164-022-00342-6.
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17
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Liu Z, Zhang W, Tu C, Li W, Qi L, Zhang Z, Wan L, Yang Z, Ren X, Li Z. Prognostic and clinicopathologic significance of circZFR in multiple human cancers. World J Surg Oncol 2022; 20:268. [PMID: 36008845 PMCID: PMC9413939 DOI: 10.1186/s12957-022-02733-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Abnormally expressed in diverse cancers, circZFR has been correlated with clinical outcomes of cancer patients. Aim of this meta-analysis was to elucidate the prognostic role of circZFR in multiple human malignancies. Methods Literature retrieval was conducted by systematically searching on Pubmed, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library up to December 2nd, 2021. Hazard ratios (HRs) or odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were pooled to evaluate the association between circZFR expression and overall survival (OS). The reliability of the pooled results was assessed through sensitivity analysis and the publication bias was measured by Begg’s and Egger’s test. Results A total of seventeen studies comprising 1098 Chinese patients were enrolled in this meta-analysis. Results demonstrated that high circZFR expression was correlated with an unfavorable OS (HR = 2.14, 95% CI 1.74, 2.64). High circZFR expression predicted larger tumor size (OR = 2.79, 95% CI 1.52, 5.12), advanced clinical stage (OR = 3.38, 95% CI 1.49, 7.65), tendentiousness of lymph node metastasis (LNM) (OR = 3.08, 95% CI 2.01, 4.71), and malignant grade (OR = 3.18, 95% CI 1.09, 9.30), but not related to age, gender, and distant metastasis (DM). Conclusions High circZFR expression was associated with unfavorable OS and clinicopathologic parameters including tumor size, clinical stage, LNM, and histology grade, implicating a promising prognostic factor in cancers. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12957-022-02733-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongyue Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, People's Republic of China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenchao Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, People's Republic of China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Tu
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, People's Republic of China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenyi Li
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, People's Republic of China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, People's Republic of China
| | - Lin Qi
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, People's Republic of China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiming Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, People's Republic of China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Wan
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, People's Republic of China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhimin Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, People's Republic of China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaolei Ren
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, People's Republic of China. .,Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zhihong Li
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, People's Republic of China. .,Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, People's Republic of China.
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18
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Niu ZS, Wang WH. Circular RNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma: Recent advances. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2022; 14:1067-1085. [PMID: 35949213 PMCID: PMC9244981 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v14.i6.1067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have covalently closed loop structures at both ends, exhibiting characteristics dissimilar to those of linear RNAs. Emerging evidence suggests that aberrantly expressed circRNAs play crucial roles in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by affecting the proliferation, apoptosis and invasive capacity of HCC cells. Certain circRNAs may be used as biomarkers to diagnose and predict the prognosis of HCC. Therefore, circRNAs are expected to become novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for HCC. Herein, we briefly review the characteristics and biological functions of circRNAs, focusing on their roles in HCC to provide new insights for the early diagnosis and targeted therapy of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao-Shan Niu
- Laboratory of Micromorphology, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong Province, China
| | - Wen-Hong Wang
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong Province, China
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19
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Xue C, Li G, Zheng Q, Gu X, Bao Z, Lu J, Li L. The functional roles of the circRNA/Wnt axis in cancer. Mol Cancer 2022; 21:108. [PMID: 35513849 PMCID: PMC9074313 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-022-01582-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
CircRNAs, covalently closed noncoding RNAs, are widely expressed in a wide range of species ranging from viruses to plants to mammals. CircRNAs were enriched in the Wnt pathway. Aberrant Wnt pathway activation is involved in the development of various types of cancers. Accumulating evidence indicates that the circRNA/Wnt axis modulates the expression of cancer-associated genes and then regulates cancer progression. Wnt pathway-related circRNA expression is obviously associated with many clinical characteristics. CircRNAs could regulate cell biological functions by interacting with the Wnt pathway. Moreover, Wnt pathway-related circRNAs are promising potential biomarkers for cancer diagnosis, prognosis evaluation, and treatment. In our review, we summarized the recent research progress on the role and clinical application of Wnt pathway-related circRNAs in tumorigenesis and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Xue
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XState Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University, No. 79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, 310003 Hangzhou, China
| | - Ganglei Li
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XDepartment of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 310003 Hangzhou, China
| | - Qiuxian Zheng
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XState Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University, No. 79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, 310003 Hangzhou, China
| | - Xinyu Gu
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XState Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University, No. 79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, 310003 Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhengyi Bao
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XState Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University, No. 79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, 310003 Hangzhou, China
| | - Juan Lu
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XState Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University, No. 79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, 310003 Hangzhou, China
| | - Lanjuan Li
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XState Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University, No. 79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, 310003 Hangzhou, China
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20
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Wang P, Zhang Y, Deng L, Qu Z, Guo P, Liu L, Yu Z, Wang P, Liu N. The function and regulation network mechanism of circRNA in liver diseases. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:141. [PMID: 35361205 PMCID: PMC8973545 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02559-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Circular RNA (circRNA), a new type of endogenous non-coding RNA, is abundantly present in eukaryotic cells, and characterized as stable high conservation and tissue specific expression. It has been generated increasing attention because of their close association with the progress of diseases. The liver is the vital organ of humans, while it is prone to acute and chronic diseases due to the influence of multiple pathogenic factors. Moreover, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the one of most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Overwhelming evidences indicate that some circRNAs are differentially expressed in liver diseases, such as, HCC, chronic hepatitis B, hepatic steatosis and hepatoblastoma tissues, etc. Additionally, these circRNAs are related to proliferation, invasion, migration, angiogenesis, apoptosis, and metastasis of cell in liver diseases and act as oncogenic agents or suppressors, and linked to clinical manifestations. In this review, we briefly summarize the biogenesis, characterization and biological functions, recent detection and identification technologies of circRNA, and regulation network mechanism of circRNA in liver diseases, and discuss their potential values as biomarkers or therapeutic targets for liver diseases, especially on HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panpan Wang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 540001, People's Republic of China.,South China Hospital, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518116, People's Republic of China
| | - Yunhuan Zhang
- Institute of Chronic Disease Risks Assessment, School of Nursing and Health, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, People's Republic of China
| | - Lugang Deng
- South China Hospital, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518116, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhi Qu
- Institute of Chronic Disease Risks Assessment, School of Nursing and Health, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, People's Republic of China.
| | - Peisen Guo
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 540001, People's Republic of China.,South China Hospital, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518116, People's Republic of China
| | - Limin Liu
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 540001, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Chronic Disease Risks Assessment, School of Nursing and Health, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, People's Republic of China.,South China Hospital, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518116, People's Republic of China
| | - Zengli Yu
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 540001, People's Republic of China.
| | - Peixi Wang
- Institute of Chronic Disease Risks Assessment, School of Nursing and Health, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, People's Republic of China
| | - Nan Liu
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 540001, People's Republic of China. .,Institute of Chronic Disease Risks Assessment, School of Nursing and Health, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, People's Republic of China. .,South China Hospital, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518116, People's Republic of China.
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21
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Tian X, Yang H, Fang Q, Quan H, Lu H, Wang X. Circ_ZFR affects FABP7 expression to regulate breast cancer progression by acting as a sponge for miR-223-3p. Thorac Cancer 2022; 13:1369-1380. [PMID: 35355424 PMCID: PMC9058297 DOI: 10.1111/1759-7714.14401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer (BC) is a common malignancy in women. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been reported to play a key role in the development of BC; however, the effect of circular RNA zinc finger RNA binding protein (circ_ZFR) in BC is unknown. METHODS Abundances of circ_ZFR, fatty acid binding protein 7 (FABP7), and microRNA-223-3p (miR-223-3p) were measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The circular structure of circ_ZFR was validated by RNase R treatment. Cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis were assessed by colony formation, cell counting kit-8, Transwell, flow cytometry assays, respectively. All protein levels were determined by Western blot. Dual-luciferase reporter assay was used to confirm the relationship between miR-223-3p and circ_ZFR or FABP7. A xenograft model was established to understand the effect of circ_ZFR on BC cell growth in vivo. RESULTS The expression levels of circ_ZFR and FABP7 were higher in BC tissues and cell lines, whereas miR-223-3p expression was lower. Knockdown of circ_ZFR or FABP7 in BC cells reduced proliferation, migration, invasion, and epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT), and induced apoptosis in vitro, whereas the opposite effects were observed in circ_ZFR-overexpressed cells. Furthermore, circ_ZFR might act as a sponge for miR-223-3p to regulate FABP7 expression, thereby promoting the progression of BC cells in vitro and in vivo. CONCLUSION Circ_ZFR might act as a miRNA sponge for miR-223-3p to regulate FABP7, thereby promoting proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT of BC cells, and inhibiting cell apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuling Tian
- Department of Oncology, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hong Yang
- Department of Oncology, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qian Fang
- Department of General Surgery, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hongmei Quan
- Department of Oncology, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hongyu Lu
- Department of Oncology, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
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22
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Zhou Y, Tang W, Zhuo H, Zhu D, Rong D, Sun J, Song J. Cancer-associated fibroblast exosomes promote chemoresistance to cisplatin in hepatocellular carcinoma through circZFR targeting signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT3)/ nuclear factor -kappa B (NF-κB) pathway. Bioengineered 2022; 13:4786-4797. [PMID: 35139763 PMCID: PMC8973934 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2022.2032972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemoresistance in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been found to be influenced by exosomal transport of circRNAs. However, the role of circZFR in HCC chemoresistance still remains unclear. In the present study, circZFR was highly expressed in cisplatin (DDP)-resistant HCC cell lines and could regulate DDP resistance of the HCC cells. Also, circZFR was highly expressed in cancer-associated fibroblast (CAFs) and the exosome of CAFs. In addition, supplementation of CAFs in culture medium could promote DDP resistance of HCC cells. In vivo tumor xenograft experiments showed that knockdown of circZFR inhibited tumor growth and weakened DDP resistance, while CAFs-derived exosomes incubation increased the expression of circZFR, inhibited the STAT3/NF-κB pathway, promoted tumor growth, and enhanced DDP resistance. In general, CAFs-derived exosomes deliver circZFR to HCC cells, inhibit the STAT3/NF-κB pathway, and promote HCC development and chemoresistance. The results provided a new sight for the prevention and treatment of chemoresistance in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Zhou
- Department of Ultrasonography, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Weiwei Tang
- Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences; Nhc Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, Hepatobiliary Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Han Zhuo
- Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences; Nhc Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, Hepatobiliary Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Deming Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences; Nhc Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, Hepatobiliary Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Dawei Rong
- Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences; Nhc Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, Hepatobiliary Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jin Sun
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jinhua Song
- Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences; Nhc Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, Hepatobiliary Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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23
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Liu L, Wang H, Yu S, Gao X, Liu G, Sun D, Jiang X. An Update on the Roles of circRNA-ZFR in Human Malignant Tumors. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 9:806181. [PMID: 35186956 PMCID: PMC8848330 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.806181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
CircRNAs (circular RNAs) are single-stranded RNAs that form covalently closed loops and function as important regulatory elements of the genome through multiple mechanisms. Increasing evidence had indicated that circRNAs, which might serve as either oncogenes or tumor suppressors, played vital roles in the pathophysiology of human diseases, especially in tumorigenesis and progression. CircRNA-ZFR (circular RNA zinc finger RNA binding protein) is a circular RNA that had attracted much attention in recent years. It has been found that circRNA-ZFR was abnormally expressed in a variety of malignant tumors, and its dysregulated expression was closely related to tumor stage, cancer metastasis and patients’ prognosis. Recent studies had shown that aberrantly expressed circRNA-ZFR could regulate the malignant biological behaviors of tumors through various mechanisms; further exploration of circRNA-ZFR expression in tumors and its regulation on malignant biological behaviors such as tumor proliferation, invasion and drug resistance will provide new ideas for clinical tumors diagnosis and treatment.
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24
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Louis C, Leclerc D, Coulouarn C. Emerging roles of circular RNAs in liver cancer. JHEP Rep 2022; 4:100413. [PMID: 35036887 PMCID: PMC8749337 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2021.100413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma are the most common primary liver tumours, whose incidence and associated mortality have increased over recent decades. Liver cancer is often diagnosed late when curative treatments are no longer an option. Characterising new molecular determinants of liver carcinogenesis is crucial for the development of innovative treatments and clinically relevant biomarkers. Recently, circular RNAs (circRNAs) emerged as promising regulatory molecules involved in cancer onset and progression. Mechanistically, circRNAs are mainly known for their ability to sponge and regulate the activity of microRNAs and RNA-binding proteins, although other functions are emerging (e.g. transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation, protein scaffolding). In liver cancer, circRNAs have been shown to regulate tumour cell proliferation, migration, invasion and cell death resistance. Their roles in regulating angiogenesis, genome instability, immune surveillance and metabolic switching are emerging. Importantly, circRNAs are detected in body fluids. Due to their circular structure, circRNAs are often more stable than mRNAs or miRNAs and could therefore serve as promising biomarkers - quantifiable with high specificity and sensitivity through minimally invasive methods. This review focuses on the role and the clinical relevance of circRNAs in liver cancer, including the development of innovative biomarkers and therapeutic strategies.
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Key Words
- ASO, antisense oligonucleotide
- CCA, cholangiocarcinoma
- CLIP, cross-linking immunoprecipitation
- EMT, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition
- EVs, extracellular vesicles
- HCC, hepatocellular carcinoma
- HN1, haematopoietic- and neurologic-expressed sequence 1
- IRES, internal ribosome entry sites
- NGS, next-generation sequencing
- QKI, Quaking
- RBP, RNA-binding protein
- RISC, RNA-induced silencing complex
- TAM, tumour-associated macrophage
- TSB, target site blockers
- biomarker
- cancer hallmarks
- cholangiocarcinoma
- circRNA
- circRNA, circular RNA
- hepatocellular carcinoma
- miRNA, microRNA
- shRNA, small-hairpin RNA
- snRNP, small nuclear ribonuclear proteins
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Affiliation(s)
- Corentin Louis
- Inserm, Univ Rennes 1, COSS (Chemistry, Oncogenesis Stress Signaling), UMR_S 1242, Centre de Lutte contre le Cancer Eugène Marquis, F-35042, Rennes, France
| | - Delphine Leclerc
- Inserm, Univ Rennes 1, COSS (Chemistry, Oncogenesis Stress Signaling), UMR_S 1242, Centre de Lutte contre le Cancer Eugène Marquis, F-35042, Rennes, France
| | - Cédric Coulouarn
- Inserm, Univ Rennes 1, COSS (Chemistry, Oncogenesis Stress Signaling), UMR_S 1242, Centre de Lutte contre le Cancer Eugène Marquis, F-35042, Rennes, France
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25
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Ge L, Tan W, Li G, Gong N, Zhou L. Circ_0026134 promotes NSCLC progression by the miR-3619-5p/CHAF1B axis. Thorac Cancer 2022; 13:582-592. [PMID: 34985193 PMCID: PMC8841691 DOI: 10.1111/1759-7714.14301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of NSCLC. In this study, we explored the molecular determinants underlying the oncogenic property of circ_0026134 in NSCLC. METHODS The levels of circ_0026134, miR-3619-5p and chromatin assembly factor 1 subunit B axis (CHAF1B) were assessed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blot. Cell colony formation, migration, invasion and apoptosis were detected by colony formation, Transwell, and flow cytometry assays, respectively. Direct relationships among circ_0026134, miR-3619-5p and CHAF1B were verified by dual-luciferase reporter assays. RESULTS Our results showed that circ_0026134 was highly expressed in NSCLC tissues and cells. Reduced circ_0026134 expression or miR-3619-5p overexpression inhibited NSCLC cell colony formation, migration, invasion, glycolysis and promoted cell apoptosis in vitro. Moreover, circ_0026134 directly targeted miR-3619-5p, and circ_0026134 regulated CHAF1B expression through miR-3619-5p. CHAF1B was a downstream effector of circ_0026134 in affecting NSCLC cell functional behaviors in vitro. Additionally, circ_0026134 silencing weakened tumor growth in vivo. CONCLUSIONS Our study identified a novel regulatory mechanism, the circ_0026134/miR-3619-5p/CHAF1B axis, for the oncogenic role of circ_0026134 in NSCLC, highlighting circ_00261345 inhibition as a potential therapeutic method against NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Ge
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Enshi, China
| | - Wei Tan
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Enshi, China
| | - Guangcai Li
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Enshi, China
| | - Nianjin Gong
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Enshi, China
| | - Long Zhou
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Enshi, China
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Yuan Y, Yang X, Xie D. Role of hsa_circ_0066966 in proliferation and migration of hepatitis B virus-related liver cancer cells. Exp Ther Med 2022; 23:87. [PMID: 34976133 PMCID: PMC8674973 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.11010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
A large proportion of liver cancer cases is caused by hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. In recent years, an increasing number of reports have indicated that circular RNAs (circRNAs) exert regulatory effects in cancer development, whereas the role of circRNAs in HBV-positive liver cancer requires further investigation. In the present study, abnormally expressed circRNAs were identified in HBV-positive liver cancer cells through microarray analysis. A total of 1,493 differentially expressed circRNAs [absolute fold-change (FC) ≥2] in HBV-positive liver cancer cells were detected, of which 171 were upregulated and 1,322 were downregulated. Subsequently, Gene Ontology enrichment analysis indicated that the genes of dysregulated circRNAs were mainly involved in regulating Sertoli cell differentiation and development, as well as telomeric DNA binding. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis revealed that most of these genes were enriched in cancer-related signaling pathways, including the MAPK and Hippo signaling pathways. Next, the expression levels of the top-10 dysregulated circRNAs were verified in HBV-positive liver cancer cells through reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. Among them, hsa_circ_0066966 had the highest absolute Log2FC value and was abnormally increased in HBV-positive liver cancer cells. Functional experiments further verified that knockdown of hsa_circ_0066966 had a significant inhibitory effect on the proliferation and migration of HBV-positive liver cancer cells. By contrast, overexpression of hsa_circ_0066966 in HBV-negative liver cancer cells resulted in the opposite effect. In conclusion, in the present study, comprehensive circRNA profiling in HBV-positive liver cancer cells indicated that hsa_circ_0066966 may regulate the progression of HBV-positive liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinghua Yuan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200240, P.R. China
| | - Xiaojin Yang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200240, P.R. China
| | - Desheng Xie
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200240, P.R. China
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27
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Qi J, Wang T, Zhang Z, Yin Z, Liu Y, Ma L, Pei S, Dong Z, Han G. Circ-Ctnnb1 regulates neuronal injury in spinal cord injury through Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Dev Neurosci 2021; 44:131-141. [PMID: 34929706 DOI: 10.1159/000521172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Spinal cord injury (SCI) rat model and cell model were established for in vivo and in vitro experiments. Functional assays were utilized to explore the role of the circRNAs derived from catenin beta 1 (mmu_circ_0001859, circ-Ctnnb1 herein) in regulating neuronal cell viability and apoptosis. Bioinformatics analysis and mechanism experiments were conducted to assess the underlying molecular mechanism of circ-Ctnnb1. OBJECTIVE We aimed to probe into the biological function of circ-Ctnnb1 in neuronal cells of SCI. METHODS The rat model of SCI and hypoxia-induced cell model were constructed to examine circ-Ctnnb1 expression in SCI through quantitative reverse transcription real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Basso, Beattie and Bresnahan (BBB) score was utilized for evaluating the neurological function. Terminal-deoxynucleoitidyl Transferase Mediated Nick End labeling (TUNEL) assays were performed to assess the apoptosis of neuronal cells. RNase R and Actinomycin D (ActD) were used to treat cells to evaluate the stability of circ-Ctnnb1. RESULTS Circ-Ctnnb1 was highly expressed in SCI rat models and hypoxia-induced neuronal cells, and its deletion elevated the apoptosis rate of hypoxia-induced neuronal cells. Furthermore, circ-Ctnnb1 activated the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway via sponging mircoRNA-205-5p (miR-205-5p) to up-regulate Ctnnb1 and Wnt family member 2B (Wnt2b). CONCLUSION Circ-Ctnnb1 promotes SCI through regulating Wnt/β-catenin signaling via modulating the miR-205-5p/Ctnnb1/Wnt2b axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialong Qi
- Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopaedics, The Third Hospital of Anhui Medical University, The First People's Hospital of Hefei City, Hefei, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Zhidong Zhang
- Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopaedics, The Third Hospital of Anhui Medical University, The First People's Hospital of Hefei City, Hefei, China
| | - Zongsheng Yin
- Joint Surgery Center, Department of Orthopaedics, The First Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yiming Liu
- Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopaedics, The Third Hospital of Anhui Medical University, The First People's Hospital of Hefei City, Hefei, China,
| | - Li Ma
- Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopaedics, The Third Hospital of Anhui Medical University, The First People's Hospital of Hefei City, Hefei, China
| | - Shaobao Pei
- Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopaedics, The Third Hospital of Anhui Medical University, The First People's Hospital of Hefei City, Hefei, China
| | - Zhou Dong
- Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopaedics, The Third Hospital of Anhui Medical University, The First People's Hospital of Hefei City, Hefei, China
| | - Guosong Han
- Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopaedics, The Third Hospital of Anhui Medical University, The First People's Hospital of Hefei City, Hefei, China
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28
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Xu R, Yin S, Zheng M, Pei X, Ji X. Circular RNA circZFR Promotes Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression by Regulating miR-375/HMGA2 Axis. Dig Dis Sci 2021; 66:4361-4373. [PMID: 33433801 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-020-06805-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mounting evidence indicates that circular RNAs (circRNAs) have vital roles in human diseases, especially in cancers. AIMS The aim of this study was to explore the biological functions and underlying mechanism of circRNA zinc finger RNA binding (circZFR) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS The expression levels of circZFR, microRNA-375 (miR-375) and high mobility group A2 (HMGA2) were detected by qRT-PCR or western blot assay. Glycolytic metabolism was examined via the measurement of extracellular acidification rate, oxygen consumption rate, glucose uptake, lactate production, and ATP level. MTT assay and flow cytometry were used to assess cell proliferation and cell apoptosis, respectively. The interaction between miR-375 and circZFR or HMGA2 was verified by dual-luciferase reporter and RNA Immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays. The mice xenograft model was established to investigate the role of circZFR in vivo. RESULTS CircZFR and HMGA2 were upregulated while miR-375 was downregulated in HCC tissues and cells. CircZFR silence inhibited HCC progression by inhibiting cell proliferation, glycolysis and tumor growth and promoting apoptosis. MiR-375 was a direct target of circZFR and its knockdown reversed the inhibitory effect of circZFR silence on the progression of HCC cells. Moreover, HMGA2 was a downstream target of miR-375, and miR-375 suppressed proliferation and glycolysis and induced apoptosis by targeting HMGA2 in HCC cells. Besides, circZFR acted as a molecular sponge of miR-375 to regulate HMGA2 expression. CONCLUSION Knockdown of circZFR suppressed the progression of HCC by upregulating miR-375 and downregulating HMGA2, providing new insight into the pathogenesis of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Xu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, No. 1 Swan Lake Road, New District of Political Affairs and Culture, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Shiwu Yin
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The Second People's Hospital of Hefei, Hefei, 230000, Anhui, China
| | - Meng Zheng
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, No. 1 Swan Lake Road, New District of Political Affairs and Culture, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Xiaohong Pei
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, No. 1 Swan Lake Road, New District of Political Affairs and Culture, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Xuebing Ji
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, No. 1 Swan Lake Road, New District of Political Affairs and Culture, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China.
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29
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Hu K, Li NF, Li JR, Chen ZG, Wang JH, Sheng LQ. Exosome circCMTM3 promotes angiogenesis and tumorigenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma through miR-3619-5p/SOX9. Hepatol Res 2021; 51:1139-1152. [PMID: 34233088 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
AIM As one of the most common and lethal carcinomas, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a global health concern and affects millions of people worldwide. Current treatments for HCC are very limited due to its unclear pathogenesis. Here, we aim to further investigate the role of circCMTM3/microRNA (miR)-3619-5p in HCC. METHODS Human blood samples were collected from HCC patients and healthy people. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis were undertaken to measure levels of circCMTM3, miR-3619-5p, SOX9, and exosome markers. The MTT, colony formation, and Transwell assays were used to examine the viability, migration, and invasion of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), respectively. Tube formation assay was used to assess angiogenesis. Dual luciferase assay was used to validate circCMTM3/miR-3619-5p and miR-3619-5p/SOX9 interactions. A nude mouse xenograft model was used to test the role of circCMTM3 in HCC in vivo. RESULTS Levels of circCMTM3 in exosomes from HCC patients and cells were elevated. Knockdown of circCMTM3 greatly decreased viability, migration, and invasion of HUVECs, as well as angiogenesis. CircCMTM3 acted as a miR-3619-5p sponge and miR-3619-5p inhibitor reversed the effects of si-circCMTM3 on angiogenesis. MiR-3619-5p directly targeted SOX9 and modulated angiogenesis through SOX9. Furthermore, knockdown of circCMTM3 suppressed angiogenesis and HCC tumor growth in vivo. CONCLUSION The exosome circCMTM3/miR-3619-5p/SOX9 axis from HCC cells promotes angiogenesis and thus contributes to HCC tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Hu
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Yiyang Central Hospital, Yiyang, China
| | - Nian-Feng Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jia-Rong Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ze-Guo Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jian-Hua Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lang-Qing Sheng
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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30
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Xiong H, Yu H, Jia G, Yu J, Su Y, Zhang J, Zhou J. circZFR regulates thyroid cancer progression by the miR-16/MAPK1 axis. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2021; 36:2236-2244. [PMID: 34323000 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies have identified the dysregulation of various circRNAs in many types of human cancers including thyroid cancer (TC). Circular RNA ZFR (circZFR) serves as an oncogenic circRNA in TC. However, the detailed molecular mechanism of circZFR in TC progression remains to be further explored. CircZFR and miR-16 expressions in TC cells were analyzed through qRT-PCR. Cell viability, invasion, and apoptosis were detected using CCK-8, transwell invasion assay, and flow cytometry analysis, respectively. The relationship between circZFR and miR-16 was explored using luciferase reporter assay, RNA pull-down assay, and qRT-PCR. The relationship between miR-16 and mitogen-activated protein kinase 1 (MAPK1) was explored using luciferase reporter assay and western blot analysis. Results showed that circZFR was upregulated and miR-16 was downregulated in TC cells. CircZFR knockdown inhibited the viability and invasion and induced apoptosis in TC cells. CircZFR inhibited miR-16 expression by sponging miR-16 and miR-16 repressed MAPK1 expression by targeting MAPK1. Moreover, circZFR positively regulated MAPK1 expression in TC cells by serving as a ceRNA of miR-16. Mechanistically, circZFR knockdown-induced inhibition of cell viability and invasion and promotion of apoptosis were overturned after miR-16 downregulation and promotion of MAPK1. Collectively, circZFR knockdown retarded TC progression by sponging miR-16 and modulating MAPK1 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Xiong
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Nanyang First People's Hospital, Nanyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Thyroid Tumor Prevention and Treatment, Nanyang First People's Hospital, Nanyang, China
| | - Huimei Yu
- Department of Endocrinology, Huaiyin Hospital, Huai'an, China
| | - Guangwei Jia
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Nanyang First People's Hospital, Nanyang, China
| | - Jinsong Yu
- Key Laboratory of Thyroid Tumor Prevention and Treatment, Nanyang First People's Hospital, Nanyang, China
- Department of General Surgery, Nanyang First People's Hospital, Nanyang, China
| | - Yang Su
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Nanyang First People's Hospital, Nanyang, China
| | - Jianliang Zhang
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Nanyang First People's Hospital, Nanyang, China
| | - Jin Zhou
- Department of Ultrasound Imaging, The Affiliated Huai'an Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, The Second People's Hospital of Huai'an, Huai'an, China
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Xu Q, Xu H, Deng R, Li N, Mu R, Qi Z, Shen Y, Wang Z, Wen J, Zhao J, Weng D, Huang W. Landscape of Prognostic m6A RNA Methylation Regulators in Hepatocellular Carcinoma to Aid Immunotherapy. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:669145. [PMID: 34422799 PMCID: PMC8375309 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.669145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth most common malignancy with a high mortality worldwide. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) may participate extensively in tumor progression. Methods: To reveal the landscape of tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), ESTIMATE analysis, ssGSEA algorithm, and the CIBERSORT method were used. Taking advantage of consensus clustering, two different HCC categories were screened. We analyzed the correlation of clustering results with TIME and immunotherapy. Then, we yielded a risk signature by systematical bioinformatics analyses. Immunophenoscore (IPS) was implemented to estimate the immunotherapeutic significance of risk signature. Results: The m6A-based clusters were significantly correlated with overall survival (OS), immune score, immunological signature, immune infiltrating, and ICB-associated genes. Risk signature possessed robust prognostic validity and significantly correlated with TIME context. IPS was employed as a surrogate of immunotherapeutic outcome, and patients with low-risk scores showed significantly higher immunophenoscores. Conclusion: Collectively, m6A-based clustering subtype and signature was a robust prognostic indicator and correlated with TIME and immunotherapy, providing novel insight into antitumor management and prognostic prediction in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianhui Xu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Hao Xu
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Rongshan Deng
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Nanjun Li
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ruiqi Mu
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhixuan Qi
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yunuo Shen
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zijie Wang
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jingchao Wen
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiaxin Zhao
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Di Weng
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wen Huang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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32
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Liu B, Tian Y, Chen M, Shen H, Xia J, Nan J, Yan T, Wang Y, Shi L, Shen B, Yu H, Cai X. CircUBAP2 Promotes MMP9-Mediated Oncogenic Effect via Sponging miR-194-3p in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:675043. [PMID: 34239873 PMCID: PMC8258265 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.675043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The physiological regulatory functions of circRNAs have become a topic of intensive research in recent years. Increasing evidence supports a significant role of circRNAs during cancer initiation and progression, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). MATERIALS AND METHODS A bioinformatics analysis from three independent Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases was performed to profile and screen the dysregulated circRNAs in HCC. RT-qPCR was used to examine the expression level of circUBAP2 in HCC and adjacent non-tumor tissues. Then, proliferation assays (CCK8 and colony formation) and migration assays (transwell and wound healing) were performed to examine effect of circUBAP2 in vitro. Immunoprecipitation, RNA pulldown, FISH, and dual-luciferase reporter assay was conducted to explore the circUBAP2-related mechanism for regulating HCC progression. Moreover, a mouse xenograft model and a mouse lung metastasis model confirmed the effect of circUBAP2 in vivo. RESULTS In this study, we found a novel circRNA: circUBAP2, which was identified by bioinformatics analysis. Among 91 HCC patients, circUBAP2 was significantly upregulated in HCC tissues, and negatively correlated with aggressive clinical characteristics and prognosis. Functional assays demonstrated that circUBAP2 promoted cell proliferation, colony formation, migration, and invasion in vitro. Moreover, circUBAP2 enhanced tumor growth and pulmonary metastasis in vivo. Mechanistically, circUBAP2 acts as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) for miR-194-3p, a tumor suppressor in HCC. We confirmed that MMP9 was direct target for miR-194-3p, which was regulated by circUBAP2. CONCLUSION CircUBAP2 plays a significant role in promoting HCC via the miR-194-3p/MMP9 pathway and could serve as a promising prognostic biomarker and novel therapeutic target for HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boqiang Liu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuanshi Tian
- Department of Diagnostic Ultrasound and Echocardiography, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Mingyu Chen
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hao Shen
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiafeng Xia
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Junjie Nan
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tingting Yan
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yifan Wang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Liang Shi
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bo Shen
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hong Yu
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiujun Cai
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Minimal Invasive Diagnosis and Treatment Technology Research Center of Severe Hepatobiliary Disease, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Research and Development Engineering Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Technology and Equipment, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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Papatsirou M, Artemaki PI, Karousi P, Scorilas A, Kontos CK. Circular RNAs: Emerging Regulators of the Major Signaling Pathways Involved in Cancer Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13112744. [PMID: 34205978 PMCID: PMC8198587 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13112744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Signal transduction is an essential process that regulates and coordinates fundamental cellular processes, such as development, immunity, energy metabolism, and apoptosis. Through signaling, cells are capable of perceiving their environment and adjusting to changes, and most signaling cascades ultimately lead to alterations in gene expression. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) constitute an emerging type of endogenous transcripts with regulatory roles and unique properties. They are stable and expressed in a tissue-, cell-, and developmental stage-specific manner, while they are involved in the pathogenesis of several diseases, including cancer. Aberrantly expressed circRNAs can mediate cancer progression through regulation of the activity of major signaling cascades, such as the VEGF, WNT/β-catenin, MAPK, PI3K/AKT, and Notch signaling pathways, as well as by interfering with signaling crosstalk. Deregulated signaling can then function to induce angiogenesis, promote invasion, migration, and metastasis, and, generally, modulate the hallmarks of cancer. In this review article, we summarize the most recently described and intriguing cases of circRNA-mediated signaling regulation that are involved in cancer progression, and discuss the biomarker potential of circRNAs, as well as future therapeutic applications.
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Hussen BM, Honarmand Tamizkar K, Hidayat HJ, Taheri M, Ghafouri-Fard S. The role of circular RNAs in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. Pathol Res Pract 2021; 223:153495. [PMID: 34051512 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2021.153495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a group of regulatory non-coding transcripts, which partake in the pathobiology of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Numerous micro-array based investigations have discovered aberrant expression of circRNAs in HCC samples in comparison with para-cancerous sections. Furthermore, a number of in vitro and in vivo experimentations have aimed at understanding the molecular pathways of circRNAs contribution in the evolution of HCC. CircRNAs have interplay with a number of transcription factors such as ZEB1 that possibly mediates the effects of these transcripts in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Moreover, circRNAs functionally interact with miRNAs. CircRNA_0000502/ miR-124, circ_0001955/ miR-145-5p, circ_0001955/ miR-516a-5p and hsa_circ_0001955/miR-145-5p are examples of such interactions in the context of HCC. CircRNAs not only predict the course of HCC, but also, they can differentiate HCC samples from non-malignant liver tissues. In this review article, we have provided an inclusive summary of researches that quantified circRNAs profile in HCC. We also provide evidence for application of circRNAs as HCC biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bashdar Mahmud Hussen
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Kasra Honarmand Tamizkar
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hazha Jamal Hidayat
- Department of Biology, College of Education, Salahadddin University-Erbil, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
| | - Mohammad Taheri
- Skull Base Research Center, Loghman Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Soudeh Ghafouri-Fard
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Xia H, Niu Q, Ding Y, Zhang Z, Yuan J, Jin W. Long noncoding HOXA11-AS knockdown suppresses the progression of non-small cell lung cancer by regulating miR-3619-5p/SALL4 axis. J Mol Histol 2021; 52:729-740. [PMID: 34050851 DOI: 10.1007/s10735-021-09981-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggested that many long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) were widely involved in the development and progression of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, the roles of lncRNA homeobox A11 antisense (HOXA11-AS) and its underlying mechanism in NSCLC remains largely unknown. The expression levels of HOXA11-AS, miR-3619-5p and sal-like protein 4 (SALL4) were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Western blot analysis was used to measure the protein levels of hexokinase II (HK2) and SALL4. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion were determined by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, flow cytometry and transwell assay, respectively. The glucose consumption and lactate production were measured using glucose assay kit and lactate assay kit, respectively. The potential binding sites between miR-3619-5p and HOXA11-AS or SALL4 were predicted by online software and verified by luciferase report assay. A xenograft tumor model was established to confirm the function of HOXA11-AS in NSCLC in vivo. HOXA11-AS and SALL4 were upregulated while miR-3619-5p was downregulated in NSCLC tissues and cells. HOXA11-AS knockdown suppressed cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and glycolysis but promoted apoptosis in NSCLC cells. Moreover, miR-3619-5p could directly bind to HOXA11-AS and its inhibition attenuated the inhibitory effect of HOXA11-AS knockdown on progression of NSCLC cells. Furthermore, SALL4 was a direct target of miR-3619-5p and its overexpression reversed the anti-tumor role of miR-3619-5p in NSCLC cells. Besides, HOXA11-AS modulated SALL4 expression via sponging miR-3619-5p. Additionally, silencing HOXA11-AS inhibited tumor growth though upregulating miR-3619-5p and downregulating SALL4. Collectively, HOXA11-AS knockdown inhibited the progression of NSCLC by regulating miR-3619-5p/SALL4 axis, which might offer a novel avenue for interpreting the mechanism of NSCLC development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongwei Xia
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Qingpu Branch of Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated To Fudan University, No.1158, Gongyuan East Road, Qingpu District, Shanghai, 210700, China
| | - Qingling Niu
- Department of Pediatrics, Qingpu Branch, Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated To Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanguang Ding
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Qingpu Branch of Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated To Fudan University, No.1158, Gongyuan East Road, Qingpu District, Shanghai, 210700, China
| | - Zhiqiang Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Qingpu Branch of Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated To Fudan University, No.1158, Gongyuan East Road, Qingpu District, Shanghai, 210700, China
| | - Jun Yuan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Qingpu Branch of Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated To Fudan University, No.1158, Gongyuan East Road, Qingpu District, Shanghai, 210700, China
| | - Wei Jin
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Qingpu Branch of Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated To Fudan University, No.1158, Gongyuan East Road, Qingpu District, Shanghai, 210700, China.
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Xu Q, Hu Y, Chen S, Zhu Y, Li S, Shen F, Guo Y, Sun T, Chen X, Jiang J, Huang W. Immunological Significance of Prognostic DNA Methylation Sites in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:683240. [PMID: 34124163 PMCID: PMC8187884 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.683240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a tumor with high morbidity and high mortality worldwide. DNA methylation, one of the most common epigenetic changes, might serve a vital regulatory role in cancer. Methods: To identify categories based on DNA methylation data, consensus clustering was employed. The risk signature was yielded by systematic bioinformatics analyses based on the remarkably methylated CpG sites of cluster 1. Kaplan–Meier analysis, variable regression analysis, and ROC curve analysis were further conducted to validate the prognosis predictive ability of risk signature. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was performed for functional annotation. To uncover the context of tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) of HCC, we employed the ssGSEA algorithm and CIBERSORT method and performed TIMER database exploration and single-cell RNA sequencing analysis. Additionally, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was employed to determine the LRRC41 expression and preliminarily explore the latent role of LRRC41 in prognostic prediction. Finally, mutation data were analyzed by employing the “maftools” package to delineate the tumor mutation burden (TMB). Results: HCC samples were assigned into seven subtypes with different overall survival and methylation levels based on 5′-cytosine-phosphate-guanine-3′ (CpG) sites. The risk prognostic signature including two candidate genes (LRRC41 and KIAA1429) exhibited robust prognostic predictive accuracy, which was validated in the external testing cohort. Then, the risk score was significantly correlated with the TIME and immune checkpoint blockade (ICB)–related genes. Besides, a prognostic nomogram based on the risk score and clinical stage presented powerful prognostic ability. Additionally, LRRC41 with prognostic value was corroborated to be closely associated with TIME characterization in both expression and methylation levels. Subsequently, the correlation regulatory network uncovered the potential targets of LRRC41 and KIAA1429. Finally, the methylation level of KIAA1429 was correlated with gene mutation status. Conclusion: In summary, this is the first to identify HCC samples into distinct clusters according to DNA methylation and yield the CpG-based prognostic signature and quantitative nomogram to precisely predict prognosis. And the pivotal player of DNA methylation of genes in the TIME and TMB status was explored, contributing to clinical decision-making and personalized prognosis monitoring of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianhui Xu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yuanbo Hu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Shaohuai Chen
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yulun Zhu
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Siwei Li
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Feng Shen
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yifan Guo
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tao Sun
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyu Chen
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jinpeng Jiang
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wen Huang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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Zhang Y, Wang Y. Circular RNAs in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Emerging Functions to Clinical Significances. Front Oncol 2021; 11:667428. [PMID: 34055634 PMCID: PMC8160296 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.667428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary cancer of the liver and carries high morbidity and mortality. Diagnosing HCC at an early stage is challenging. Therefore, finding new, highly sensitive and specific diagnostic biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of HCC patients is extremely important. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNAs with covalently closed loop structures. They are characterized by remarkable stability, long half-life, abundance and evolutionary conservation. Recent studies have shown that many circRNAs are expressed aberrantly in HCC tissues and have important regulatory roles during the development and progression of HCC. Hence, circRNAs are promising biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of HCC. This review: (i) summarizes the biogenesis, categories, and functions of circRNAs; (ii) focuses on current progress of dysregulated expression of circRNAs in HCC with regard to regulation of the tumor hallmarks, “stemness” of cancer cells, and immunotherapy; (iii) highlights circRNAs as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for HCC; and (iv) discusses some of the challenges, questions and future perspectives of circRNAs research in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yucheng Zhang
- Scientific Research Center, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yali Wang
- Department of Blood Transfusion, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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Luo L, Miao P, Ming Y, Tao J, Shen H. Circ-ZFR Promotes Progression of Bladder Cancer by Upregulating WNT5A Via Sponging miR-545 and miR-1270. Front Oncol 2021; 10:596623. [PMID: 33928018 PMCID: PMC8076638 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.596623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Bladder cancer is one of the most common cancers all over the world. CircZFR is a circular RNA and has been implicated in tumor generation and invasion. However, the exact role of circZFR in the development of bladder cancer (BCa) remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate the function of circZFR in BCa, and further to probe into the association between circ-ZFR, miR-545/miR-1270 and WNT5A. Methods The expression of circZFR in BCa was quantified by qRT-PCR and was positively correlated with the prognosis of BCa patients. Next, the stable knockdown of circZFR BCa cell lines was established and the resulting capacities of proliferation, migration and invasion were measured. The association of circZFR with miR-1270/miR-545 was predicted by circinteractome prediction, and was confirmed by luciferase assay as well as RNA pull down assay. Furthermore, miRNA inhibitors, WNT5A overexpression and Pearson correlation analysis were used to examine the relationship between circZFR, miR-1270/miR-545 and WNT5A. Results The expression of CircZFR was up-regulated both in BCa tissues and in BCa cell lines, and was positively correlated with patient survival rates. Blocking of circZFR's expression by RNA inhibitors suppressed the proliferation, migration and invasion of BCa cells both in vitro and in vivo. On the other hand, overexpression of target miRNA supported that circZFR directly interact with miR-545 and miR-1270. Moreover, we demonstrated that circZFR promotes the progression of BCa by upregulating WNT5A's expression via sponging miR-545 and miR-1270. Conclusions CircZFR promotes the proliferation, migration and invasion of BCa cells by upregulating WNT5A signaling pathway via sponging miR-545 and miR-1270. These results provide new insights into the molecular mechanism of circZFR in BCa progression, and more important, a novel target for BCa clinical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liping Luo
- Department of Nephrology, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Pingping Miao
- Department of Nephrology, The Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Luzhou City, Luzhou, China
| | - Yao Ming
- Department of Nephrology, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Jie Tao
- Department of Nephrology, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Hongchun Shen
- Department of Nephrology, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China.,College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
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Tang Y, Jiang M, Jiang HM, Ye ZJ, Huang YS, Li XS, Qin BY, Zhou RS, Pan HF, Zheng DY. The Roles of circRNAs in Liver Cancer Immunity. Front Oncol 2021; 10:598464. [PMID: 33614486 PMCID: PMC7890029 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.598464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are stable covalently closed non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). Many studies indicate that circRNAs are involved in the pathological and physiological processes of liver cancer. However, the functions of circRNAs in liver cancer immunity are less known. In this review, we summarized the functions of circRNAs in liver cancer, including proliferative, metastasis and apoptosis, liver cancer stemness, cell cycle, immune evasion, glycolysis, angiogenesis, drug resistance/sensitizer, and senescence. Immune escape is considered to be one of the hallmarks of cancer development, and circRNA participates in the immune escape of liver cancer cells by regulating natural killer (NK) cell function. CircRNAs may provide new ideas for immunotherapy in liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Tang
- Department of Oncology, Institute of Tumor, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Oncology, Lingnan Medical Research Center of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Oncology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mei Jiang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hai-Mei Jiang
- Department of Oncology, Institute of Tumor, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Oncology, Lingnan Medical Research Center of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Oncology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zeng Jie Ye
- Department of Oncology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu-Sheng Huang
- Department of Oncology, Lingnan Medical Research Center of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiu-Shen Li
- Department of Oncology, Institute of Tumor, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Oncology, Lingnan Medical Research Center of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Oncology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin-Yu Qin
- Department of Oncology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rui-Sheng Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Institute of Tumor, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Oncology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hua-Feng Pan
- Department of Oncology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Da-Yong Zheng
- Department of Oncology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary, Cancer Center, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Hepatology, TCM-Integrated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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Ashrafizadeh M, Zarrabi A, Hushmandi K, Hashemi F, Moghadam ER, Owrang M, Hashemi F, Makvandi P, Goharrizi MASB, Najafi M, Khan H. Lung cancer cells and their sensitivity/resistance to cisplatin chemotherapy: Role of microRNAs and upstream mediators. Cell Signal 2021; 78:109871. [PMID: 33279671 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2020.109871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cisplatin (CP) is a well-known chemotherapeutic agent with excellent clinical effects. The anti-tumor activity of CP has been demonstrated in different cancers such as breast, cervical, reproductive, lung, brain, and prostate cancers. However, resistance of cancer cells to CP chemotherapy has led to its failure in eradication of cancer cells, and subsequent death of patients with cancer. Fortunately, much effort has been put to identify molecular pathways and mechanisms involved in CP resistance/sensitivity. It seems that microRNAs (miRs) are promising candidates in mediating CP resistance/sensitivity, since they participate in different biological aspects of cells such as proliferation, migration, angiogenesis, and differentiation. In this review, we focus on miRs and their regulation in CP chemotherapy of lung cancer, as the most malignant tumor worldwide. Oncogenic miRs trigger CP resistance in lung cancer cells via targeting various pathways such as Wnt/β-catenin, Rab6, CASP2, PTEN, and Apaf-1. In contrast, onco-suppressor miRs inhibit oncogene pathways such as STAT3 to suppress CP resistance. These topics are discussed to determine the role of miRs in CP resistance/sensitivity. We also describe the upstream modulators of miRs such as lncRNAs, circRNAs, NF-κB, SOX2 and TRIM65 and their association with CP resistance/sensitivity in lung cancer cells. Finally, the effect of anti-tumor plant-derived natural compounds on miR expression during CP sensitivity of lung cancer cells is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milad Ashrafizadeh
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, Orta Mahalle, Üniversite Caddesi No. 27, Orhanlı, Tuzla 34956, Istanbul, Turkey; Sabanci University Nanotechnology Research and Application Center (SUNUM), Tuzla 34956, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ali Zarrabi
- Sabanci University Nanotechnology Research and Application Center (SUNUM), Tuzla 34956, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Kiavash Hushmandi
- Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Division of Epidemiology & Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farid Hashemi
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Rahmani Moghadam
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Marzieh Owrang
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Fardin Hashemi
- Student Research Committee, Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Pooyan Makvandi
- Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Centre for Micro-BioRobotics, viale Rinaldo Piaggio 34, 56025 Pontedera, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Masoud Najafi
- Medical Technology Research Center, Institute of Health Technology, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran; Radiology and Nuclear Medicine Department, School of Paramedical Sciences, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
| | - Haroon Khan
- Department of Pharmacy, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, 23200, Pakistan.
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Ely A, Bloom K, Maepa MB, Arbuthnot P. Recent Update on the Role of Circular RNAs in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2021; 8:1-17. [PMID: 33542907 PMCID: PMC7851377 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s268291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
After being overlooked for decades, circular RNAs (circRNAs) have recently generated considerable interest. circRNAs play a role in a variety of normal and pathological biological processes, including hepatocarcinogenesis. Many circRNAs contribute to hepatocarcinogenesis through sponging of microRNAs (miRs) and disruption of cellular signaling pathways that play a part in control of cell proliferation, metastasis and apoptosis. In most cases, overexpressed circRNAs sequester miRs to cause de-repressed translation of mRNAs that encode oncogenic proteins. Conversely, low expression of circRNAs has also been described in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and is associated with inhibited production of tumor suppressor proteins. Other functions of circRNAs that contribute to hepatocarcinogenesis include translation of truncated proteins and acting as adapters to regulate influence of transcription factors on target gene expression. circRNAs also affect hepatocyte transformation indirectly. For example, the molecules regulate immune surveillance of cancerous cells and influence the liver fibrosis that commonly precedes HCC. Marked over- or under-expression of circRNA expression in HCC, with correlating plasma concentrations, has diagnostic utility and assays of these RNAs are being developed as biomarkers of HCC. Although knowledge in the field has recently surged, the myriad of described effects suggests that not all may be vital to hepatocarcinogenesis. Nevertheless, investigation of the role of circRNAs is providing valuable insights that are likely to contribute to improved management of a serious and highly aggressive cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Ely
- Wits/SAMRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Kristie Bloom
- Wits/SAMRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Mohube Betty Maepa
- Wits/SAMRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Patrick Arbuthnot
- Wits/SAMRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Xu Q, Wang Y, Huang W. Identification of immune-related lncRNA signature for predicting immune checkpoint blockade and prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 92:107333. [PMID: 33486322 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2020.107333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An increasing body of evidence has supported that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) can play as essential roles of various physiological process and pathological diseases. We aimed to construct a robust immune-associated lncRNA signature associated with the prognosis for HCC survival prediction. METHODS 7 immune-associated lncRNAs presenting significant correlation with survival were screened through stepwise univariate Cox regression and LASSO algorithm, and multivariate Cox regression. Kaplan-Meier analysis, proportional hazards model, and ROC analyses further conducted. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was applied for functional annotation. We conducted quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction to determine NRAV expression and preliminarily explored the latent role of NRAV in prognosis of HCC patients. RESULTS Finally, 7 immune-related lncRNA signature composed of AC007405.3, AC023157.3, NRAV, CASC19, MSC-AS1, GASAL1, and LINC00942 were validated. This lncRNAs signature can serve as an independent predictive biomolecular factor. This signature was further confirmed in the validation group and the entire cohort. We demonstrated that NRAV was significantly upregulated in HCC cell lines and it may serve as a key regulator in HCC. Our signature was associated to apoptosis and immunologic characteristics. This signature mediated immune cell infiltration (i.e., Dendritic, etc.,) and immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) immunotherapy-related molecules (i.e., CD274, etc.,). CONCLUSION This immune-related lncRNA signature possesses promising prognostic value in HCC and may have the potentiality to predict clinical outcome of ICB immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianhui Xu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China
| | - Yuxin Wang
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, China
| | - Wen Huang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China.
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43
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Toden S, Zumwalt TJ, Goel A. Non-coding RNAs and potential therapeutic targeting in cancer. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2021; 1875:188491. [PMID: 33316377 PMCID: PMC7856203 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2020.188491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Recent advances have begun to clarify the physiological and pathological roles of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in various diseases, including cancer. Among these, microRNAs (miRNAs) have been the most studied and have emerged as key players that are involved in the regulation of important growth regulatory pathways in cancer pathogenesis. The ability of a single ncRNA to modulate the expression of multiple downstream gene targets and associated pathways, have provided a rationale to pursue them for therapeutic drug development in cancer. In this context, early data from pre-clinical studies have demonstrated that synthetic miRNA-based therapeutic molecules, along with various protective coating approaches, has allowed for their efficient delivery and anti-tumor activity. In fact, some of the miRNA-based cancer therapeutic strategies have shown promising results even in early-phase human clinical trials. While the enthusiasm for ncRNA-based cancer therapeutics continue to evolve, the field is still in the midst of unraveling a more precise understanding of the molecular mechanisms and specific downstream therapeutic targets of other lesser studied ncRNAs such as the long-non-coding RNAs, transfer RNAs, circular RNAs, small nucleolar RNAs, and piwi-interacting RNAs. This review article provides the current state of knowledge and the evolving principles for ncRNA-based therapeutic approaches in cancer, and specifically highlights the importance of data to date and the approaches that are being developed to overcome the challenges associated with their delivery and mitigating the off-target effects in human cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shusuke Toden
- Center for Gastrointestinal Research; Center for Translational Genomics and Oncology, Baylor Scott & White Research Institute and Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center, Baylor Research Institute and Sammons Cancer Center, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Timothy J Zumwalt
- Center for Gastrointestinal Research; Center for Translational Genomics and Oncology, Baylor Scott & White Research Institute and Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center, Baylor Research Institute and Sammons Cancer Center, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Ajay Goel
- Center for Gastrointestinal Research; Center for Translational Genomics and Oncology, Baylor Scott & White Research Institute and Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center, Baylor Research Institute and Sammons Cancer Center, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA; Department of Molecular Diagnostics and Experimental Therapeutics, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, USA.
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Deldar Abad Paskeh M, Mirzaei S, Ashrafizadeh M, Zarrabi A, Sethi G. Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling as a Driver of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression: An Emphasis on Molecular Pathways. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2021; 8:1415-1444. [PMID: 34858888 PMCID: PMC8630469 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s336858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cancers cause a high rate of death worldwide and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is considered as the most common primary liver cancer. HCC remains a challenging disease to treat. Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is considered a tumor-promoting factor in various cancers; hence, the present review focused on the role of Wnt signaling in HCC, and its association with progression and therapy response based on pre-clinical and clinical evidence. The nuclear translocation of β-catenin enhances expression level of genes such as c-Myc and MMPs in increasing cancer progression. The mutation of CTNNB1 gene encoding β-catenin and its overexpression can lead to HCC progression. β-catenin signaling enhances cancer stem cell features of HCC and promotes their growth rate. Furthermore, β-catenin prevents apoptosis in HCC cells and increases their migration via triggering EMT and upregulating MMP levels. It is suggested that β-catenin signaling participates in mediating drug resistance and immuno-resistance in HCC. Upstream mediators including ncRNAs can regulate β-catenin signaling in HCC. Anti-cancer agents inhibit β-catenin signaling and mediate its proteasomal degradation in HCC therapy. Furthermore, clinical studies have revealed the role of β-catenin and its gene mutation (CTNBB1) in HCC progression. Based on these subjects, future experiments can focus on developing novel therapeutics targeting Wnt/β-catenin signaling in HCC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahshid Deldar Abad Paskeh
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sepideh Mirzaei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran
- Correspondence: Sepideh Mirzaei Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran Email
| | - Milad Ashrafizadeh
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, Tuzla, Istanbul, Turkey
- Sabanci University Nanotechnology Research and Application Center (SUNUM), Tuzla, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ali Zarrabi
- Sabanci University Nanotechnology Research and Application Center (SUNUM), Tuzla, Istanbul, Turkey
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istinye University, Sariyer, Istanbul, 34396, Turkey
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Cancer Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Gautam Sethi Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore Email
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45
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Li W, Kong X, Huang T, Shen L, Wu P, Chen QF. Bioinformatic analysis and in vitro validation of a five-microRNA signature as a prognostic biomarker of hepatocellular carcinoma. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2020; 8:1422. [PMID: 33313167 PMCID: PMC7723630 DOI: 10.21037/atm-20-2509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Background Existing research has identified correlations between numerous microRNAs (miRNAs) and the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the role of a combination of miRNAs in predicting HCC survival requires further elucidation. Methods miRNA expression profiles and clinical data from HCC patients were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs in tumor versus normal samples were identified. All HCC patients were randomly assigned to a training cohort or a validation cohort at a ratio of 1 to 1. A least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression model was subsequently employed to establish the miRNA signature. The constructed miRNA signature was then developed and validated. Results In total, 127 DE miRNAs were detected between HCC and paracancerous tissue using HCC RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) data extracted from TCGA database. LASSO Cox regression generated a five-miRNA signature consisting of has-mir-105-2, has-mir-9-3, has-mir-137, has-mir-548f-1, and has-mir-561 in the training cohort. This risk model was significantly related to survival (P=5.682e-6). Log-rank tests and multivariate Cox regression analyses revealed the five-miRNA signature as an independent prognostic indicator [HR =3.285, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.737–6.213], with the area under curve (AUC) of the miRNA signature being 0.728. The effects of the miRNA signature were further confirmed in the validation cohort and in the OncomiR Cancer Database and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset. Functional enrichment analysis revealed the potential effects of the five-miRNA signature in tumor-related biological pathways and processes. Cell Counting Kit-8, Transwell, and wound healing assays, were used to evaluate the role of has-mir-137 in HCC cell proliferation and migration in vitro. Conclusions We established a novel five-miRNA signature which reliably predicted prognosis in HCC patients and which could be used to assist in both strategic counseling and personalized management in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wang Li
- Department of Medical Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiangshuo Kong
- Department of Oncology, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Yantai, China
| | - Tao Huang
- Department of Medical Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangzhou, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lujun Shen
- Department of Medical Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangzhou, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peihong Wu
- Department of Medical Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qi-Feng Chen
- Department of Medical Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangzhou, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
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46
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Brown JR, Chinnaiyan AM. The Potential of Circular RNAs as Cancer Biomarkers. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020; 29:2541-2555. [PMID: 33060073 DOI: 10.1158/1055-9965.epi-20-0796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Circular RNA (circRNA) is a covalently closed RNA structure that has several proposed functions related to cancer development. Recently, cancer-specific and tissue-specific circRNAs have been identified by high-throughput sequencing and are curated in publicly available databases. CircRNAs have features that are ideal properties of biomarkers, including conservation, abundance, and stability in plasma, saliva, and urine. Many circRNAs with predictive and prognostic significance in cancer have been described, and functional mechanisms for some circRNAs have been suggested. CircRNA also has great potential as a noninvasive biomarker for early cancer detection, although further investigation is necessary before clinical application is feasible.See all articles in this CEBP Focus section, "NCI Early Detection Research Network: Making Cancer Detection Possible."
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason R Brown
- Rogel Cancer Center, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Arul M Chinnaiyan
- Rogel Cancer Center, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
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Xu G, Xu WY, Xiao Y, Jin B, Du SD, Mao YL, Zhang ZT. The emerging roles of non-coding competing endogenous RNA in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Cell Int 2020; 20:496. [PMID: 33061848 PMCID: PMC7552539 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-020-01581-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence has emerged revealing that noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) play essential roles in the occurrence and development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the complicated regulatory interactions among various ncRNAs in the development of HCC are not entirely understood. The newly discovered mechanism of competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) uncovered regulatory interactions among different varieties of RNAs. In recent years, a growing number of studies have suggested that ncRNAs, including long ncRNAs, circular RNAs and pseudogenes, play major roles in the biological functions of the ceRNA network in HCC. These ncRNAs can share microRNA response elements to affect microRNA affinity with target RNAs, thus regulating gene expression at the transcriptional level and both physiological and pathological processes. The ncRNAs that function as ceRNAs are involved in diverse biological processes in HCC cells, such as tumor cell proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, invasion, metastasis and chemoresistance. Based on these findings, ncRNAs that act as ceRNAs may be promising candidates for clinical diagnosis and treatments. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms and research methods of ceRNA networks. We also reviewed the recent advances in studying the roles of ncRNAs as ceRNAs in HCC and highlight possible directions and possibilities of ceRNAs as diagnostic biomarkers or therapeutic targets. Finally, the limitations, gaps in knowledge and opportunities for future research are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Xu
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College (PUMC) Hospital and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 1# Shuaifuyuan, Wangfujing, Dong-Cheng District, Beijing, 100730 China
| | - Wei-Yu Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University; Beijing Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research & National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, No. 95 Yong-An Road, Xi-Cheng District, Beijing, 100050 People's Republic of China
| | - Yao Xiao
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College (PUMC) Hospital and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 1# Shuaifuyuan, Wangfujing, Dong-Cheng District, Beijing, 100730 China
| | - Bao Jin
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College (PUMC) Hospital and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 1# Shuaifuyuan, Wangfujing, Dong-Cheng District, Beijing, 100730 China
| | - Shun-Da Du
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College (PUMC) Hospital and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 1# Shuaifuyuan, Wangfujing, Dong-Cheng District, Beijing, 100730 China
| | - Yi-Lei Mao
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College (PUMC) Hospital and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 1# Shuaifuyuan, Wangfujing, Dong-Cheng District, Beijing, 100730 China
| | - Zhong-Tao Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University; Beijing Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research & National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, No. 95 Yong-An Road, Xi-Cheng District, Beijing, 100050 People's Republic of China
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48
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Wang S, Fu S, Chen Q, Liu Y, Li Z, Sun T. Prognostic Role of Circular RNAs Expression in Bladder Carcinoma: A Meta-Analysis. Genet Test Mol Biomarkers 2020; 24:692-700. [PMID: 33030352 DOI: 10.1089/gtmb.2020.0079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Circular RNAs (circRNAs), a type of noncoding RNA, are associated with the occurrence and development of cancers. In recent years, their potential as biomarkers for bladder cancer (BC) has attracted increased attention. Aims: To reveal the value of circRNAs in the prognosis of BC. Methods: Relevant studies were collected to extract the clinicopathological data and overall survival (OS) of patients with BC. We then evaluated their tumor-related clinicopathological indicators using pooled odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Hazard ratio (HR) and 95% CI were used to estimate the OS of BC patients who expressed abnormal circRNAs. Results: The results indicate that seven circRNAs (circMYLK, circASXL1, hsa_circ_0000144, circ-VANGL1, circGprc5a, circZFR, and circ-cTFRC) whose expression was upregulated in tumor tissues, are associated with poor clinicopathological features (tumor/node/metastasis [TNM] stage: OR = 4.86, 95% CI: 2.53-9.34; histological grade: OR = 3.71, 95% CI: 2.37-5.79; lymph node metastasis: OR = 3.23; 95% CI: 2.15-4.88; recurrence: OR = 5.33; 95% CI: 2.27-12.52) and poor prognoses (OS: HR = 1.69; 95% CI: 1.17-2.44). We also found that seven circRNAs (circMTO1, circ-ITCH, circUBXN7, circFNDC3B, circ-ZKSCAN1, circPICALM, and circACVR2A) that were downregulated in tumors were associated with better clinicopathological indicators (TNM stage: OR = 0.23, 95% CI: 0.14-0.38; histological grade: OR = 0.21, 95% CI: 0.13-0.33; lymph node metastasis: OR = 0.26; 95% CI: 0.15-0.47) and better prognoses (OS: HR = 0.42; 95% CI: 0.30-0.58). Conclusion: Our results suggest that certain circRNAs are related to the clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of BC patients, and may potentially be used as biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyuan Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Shengqiang Fu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Qiang Chen
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yutang Liu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Zhilong Li
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Ting Sun
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
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Zhao X, Wang Y, Yu Q, Yu P, Zheng Q, Yang X, Gao D. Circular RNAs in gastrointestinal cancer: Current knowledge, biomarkers and targeted therapy (Review). Int J Mol Med 2020; 46:1611-1632. [PMID: 33000182 PMCID: PMC7521476 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2020.4731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a type of endogenous non‑coding RNAs that are connected at the 3' and 5' ends by exon or intron cyclization, which forms a covalently closed loop. They are stable, well conserved, exhibit specific expression in mammalian cells and can function as microRNA (miRNA or miR) sponges to regulate the target genes of miRNAs, which influences biological processes. Such as tumor proliferation, invasion, metastasis, apoptosis and tumor stage. circRNAs represent promising candidates for clinical diagnosis and treatment. In the present review, the biogenesis, classification and functions of circRNAs in tumors are briefly summarized and discussed. In addition, the participation of circRNAs in signal transduction pathways regulating gastrointestinal cancer cellular functions is highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaorui Zhao
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Yue Wang
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Qiongfang Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Pei Yu
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Qiaoyu Zheng
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Xue Yang
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Dian Gao
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
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CircZFR serves as a prognostic marker to promote bladder cancer progression by regulating miR-377/ZEB2 signaling. Biosci Rep 2020; 39:221189. [PMID: 31746333 PMCID: PMC6893170 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20192779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Revised: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been identified as crucial regulators of gene expression in human cancer biology. CircZFR is a novel identified circRNA and its effect in bladder cancer remains unclearly. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the role of circZFR in the progression of bladder cancer. First, we demonstrated that the expression of circZFR was higher in bladder cancer tissues and cells compared with adjacent non-tumor tissues and normal bladder epithelial cells. And higher circZFR levels were positively correlated with bladder cancer patients’ pathological T stage, grade, lymphatic metastasis, recurrence, progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Functionally, knockdown of circZFR could significantly prohibit cell growth, migration and invasion, arrest cell cycle as well as promote apoptosis of bladder cancer cells in vitro study. Mechanistically, we observed that circZFR could directly bind to miR-377 as sponge to promote ZEB2 expression in bladder cancer cells. In addition, rescue assays demonstrated that restoration of ZEB2 significantly impaired the suppressive effects of circZFR silencing on bladder cancer cells growth, migration and invasion. Taken together, our results illuminated that circZFR could be a prognostic biomarker in bladder cancer and exerted oncogenic roles through regulating miR-377/ZEB2 axis in bladder cancer, which indicated that circZFR could be a potential therapeutic target for bladder cancer patients treatment.
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