Antitumor miR-150-5p and miR-150-3p inhibit cancer cell aggressiveness by targeting SPOCK1 in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

SPOCK: Master regulator of malignant tumors (Review)

SPARC/osteonectin, CWCV and Kazal‑like domain proteoglycan (SPOCK) is a family of highly conserved multidomain proteins. In total, three such family members, SPOCK1, SPOCK2 and SPOCK3, constitute the majority of extracellular matrix glycoproteins. The SPOCK gene family has been demonstrated to serve key roles in tumor regulation by affecting MMPs, which accelerates the progression of cancer epithelial‑mesenchymal transition. In addition, they can regulate the cell cycle via overexpression, inhibit tumor cell proliferation by inactivating PI3K/AKT signaling and have been associated with numerous microRNAs that influence the expression of downstream genes. Therefore, the SPOCK gene family are potential cancer‑regulating genes. The present review summarizes the molecular structure, tissue distribution and biological function of the SPOCK family of proteins, in addition to its association with cancer. Furthermore, the present review documents the progress made in investigations into the role of SPOCK, whilst also discussing prospects for the future of SPOCK‑targeted therapy, to provide novel ideas for clinical application and treatment.

Value of miR-31 and miR-150-3p as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for breast cancer

BACKGROUND

The most prevalent malignancy among women is breast cancer (BC). MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a role in the initiation and progression of BC by influencing breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) but the diagnostic and prognostic roles of those miRNAs on BC patients are still unknown. It was aimed to investigate expression profiles, diagnostic and prognostic potentials of BCSC-related miRNAs in different subtypes (Luminal A and B, HER2 + and TNBC) of BC patients.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Expression analysis of 15 BCSC-related miRNAs was performed in 50 breast tumor tissues and 20 adjacent non-tumor tissues obtained from BC patients using the qRT-PCR method. The expression levels of miR-31 and miR-150-3p were significantly upregulated in the tumor tissues compared to the adjacent non-tumor tissues (p < 0.05). miR-31 expression upregulated in the Luminal A and Luminal B group compared to non-tumor tissue (p < 0.05). miR-31 expression was determined to be significantly higher in the Luminal group (Luminal A and B) compared to the aggressive group (HER2 + and TNBC) (p < 0.05). According to the ROC analysis, the area under the curve (AUC) of miR-31 and miR-150-3p were 0.66 with a sensitivity of 68% and a specificity of 70%. A significant inverse correlation was observed between miR-31 expression with metastatic carcinoma status, in situ component, and Ki67 value in tumors, and high miR-150-3p expression was correlated with p63 expression (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

miR-31 and miR-150-3p have the potential to serve as biomarkers for guiding diagnosis, evaluating prognosis, and metastatic process in patients with BC.

Choice of blood collection methods influences extracellular vesicles counts and miRNA profiling

Circulating RNAs have been investigated systematically for over 20 years, both as constituents of circulating extracellular vesicles (EVs) or, more recently, non-EV RNA carriers, such as exomeres and supermeres. The high level of variability and low reproducibility rate of EV/extracellular RNA (exRNA) results generated even on the same biofluids promoted several efforts to limit pre-analytical variability by standardizing sample collection and sample preparation, along with instrument validation, setup and calibration. Anticoagulants (ACs) are often chosen based on the initial goal of the study and not necessarily for the later EV and/or exRNA analyses. We show the effects of blood collection on EV size, abundance, and antigenic composition, as well on the miRNAs. Our focus of this work was on the effect of ACs on the number and antigenic composition of circulating EVs and on a set of circulating miRNA species, which were shown to be relevant as disease markers in several cancers and Alzheimer's disease. Results show that while the number of plasma EVs, their relative size, and post-fluorescence labeling profile varied with each AC, their overall antigenic composition, with few exceptions, did not change significantly. However, the number of EVs expressing platelet and platelet-activation markers increased in serum samples. For overall miRNA expression levels, EDTA was a better AC, although this may have been associated with stimulation of cells in the blood collection tube. Citrate and serum rendered better results for a set of miRNAs that were described as circulating markers for Alzheimer's disease, colon, and papillary thyroid cancers.

MicroRNA-150-5p-mediated Inhibition of Cell Proliferation, G1/S Transition, and Migration in Bladder Cancer through Targeting NEDD4-binding Protein 2-like 1 Gene

MicroRNA-150-5p (miR-150-5p) has been implicated in the progression of several cancer types, yet its specific functional role and regulatory mechanisms in bladder cancer (BC) remain largely unexplored. Our study revealed significant downregulation of miR-150-5p and upregulation of NEDD4-binding protein 2-like 1 gene (N4BP2L1) in BC tissues compared to controls using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis, respectively. Reduced miR-150-5p expression correlated with advanced tumor stage and lymph node metastasis, while increased N4BP2L1 levels were associated with larger tumor size by the Chi-square test. Functionally, miR-150-5p exerted significant inhibitory effects on BC cell proliferation, migration, inducing G0/G1 phase arrest, and apoptosis. We confirmed N4BP2L1 as a direct target of miR-150-5p in BC cells using luciferase reporter assay. Crucially, N4BP2L1 knockdown mimicked, while overexpression counteracted the inhibitory impacts of miR-150-5p on BC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. In addition, N4BP2L1 overexpression reversed miR-150-5p-induced alterations in CDK4, Cyclin D1, Bcl-2, PCNA, Ki-67, N-cadherin, Bad, and E-cadherin levels in BC cells. Based on these results, it can be inferred that the miR-150-5p/N4BP2L1 axis might constitute a promising candidate for therapeutic targeting in the treatment of BC.

KLF4 suppresses anticancer effects of brusatol via transcriptional upregulating NCK2 expression in melanoma

Brusatol (Bru), a main extract from traditional Chinese medicine Brucea javanica, has been reported to exist antitumor effect in many tumors including melanoma. However, the underlying mechanism in its anti-melanoma effect still need further exploration. Here, we reported that the protein expression of KLF4 in melanoma cells were significantly downregulated in response to brusatol treatment. Overexpression of KLF4 suppressed brusatol-induced melanoma cell apoptosis; while knockdown of KLF4 enhanced antitumor effects of brusatol on melanoma cells not only in vitro but also in vivo. Further studies on the mechanism revealed that KLF4 bound to the promoter of NCK2 directly and facilitated NCK2 transcription, which suppressed the antitumor effect of brusatol on melanoma. Furthermore, our findings showed that miR-150-3p was dramatically upregulated under brusatol treatment which resulted in the downregulation of KLF4. Our results suggested that the miR-150-3p/KLF4/NCK2 axis might play an important role in the antitumour effects of brusatol in melanoma.

Diverse activity of miR-150 in Tumor development: shedding light on the potential mechanisms

There is a growing interest to understand the role and mechanism of action of microRNAs (miRNAs) in cancer. The miRNAs are defined as short non-coding RNAs (18-22nt) that regulate fundamental cellular processes through mRNA targeting in multicellular organisms. The miR-150 is one of the miRNAs that have a crucial role during tumor cell progression and metastasis. Based on accumulated evidence, miR-150 acts as a double-edged sword in malignant cells, leading to either tumor-suppressive or oncogenic function. An overview of miR-150 function and interactions with regulatory and signaling pathways helps to elucidate these inconsistent effects in metastatic cells. Aberrant levels of miR-150 are detectable in metastatic cells that are closely related to cancer cell migration, invasion, and angiogenesis. The ability of miR-150 in regulating of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process, a critical stage in tumor cell migration and metastasis, has been highlighted. Depending on the cancer cells type and gene expression profile, levels of miR-150 and potential target genes in the fundamental cellular process can be different. Interaction between miR-150 and other non-coding RNAs, such as long non-coding RNAs and circular RNAs, can have a profound effect on the behavior of metastatic cells. MiR-150 plays a significant role in cancer metastasis and may be a potential therapeutic target for preventing or treating metastatic cancer.

MicroRNA-150-5p inhibits the proliferation and invasion of human larynx epidermiod cancer cells though regulating peptidyl-prolyl cis/trans isomerase

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the molecular mechanism of miR-150-5p regulating the malignant biological behavior of Human Epidermoid cancer cell (HEp-2) by targeting peptidyl-prolyl cis/trans isomerase NIMA-Interacting-1 (PIN1).

METHODS

Firstly, qRT-PCR and Western blot were adopted to detect the expression levels of miR-150-5p and PIN1 in cancer tissue and paracancerous tissues of patients with LSCC, and those in human bronchial epithelial cells (16 HBE) and HEp-2. Next, the targeted relationship between miR-150-5p and PIN1 was assessed by bioinformatics website and dual-luciferase reporter assay, followed by their correlation analysis. Besides, after interfering with miR-150-5p or PIN1 expression in HEp-2 cells, CCK-8, cell colony formation assay, and transwell assay were utilized to detect the proliferation, viability, and invasion of cells, respectively. Subsequently, the protein levels of MMP-2, MMP-9, and EMT-related proteins in HEp-2 cells were checked by Western blot.

RESULTS

Expression of miR-150-5p was down-regulated in LSCC tissues and HEp-2 cells. Moreover, miR-150-5p suppressed proliferation and invasion of HEp-2 cells, affected protein expression related to MMP and EMT, thereby inhibiting development of cancer. The expression of PIN1 was significantly increased in cancer tissues and HEp-2 cells, and there was a targeted relationship and negative correlation between miR-150-5p and PIN1 in cancer tissue. However, overexpression of PIN1 could reverse the effect of miR-150-5p on the proliferation and invasion of HEp-2 cells.

CONCLUSION

In a nutshell, there is a targeted relationship between PIN1 and miR-150-5p. Besides, miR-150-5p can inhibit the proliferation and invasion of HEp-2 cells by regulating the expression of PIN1.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 3

Reveal the potential molecular mechanism of circRNA regulating immune-related mRNA through sponge miRNA in the occurrence and immune regulation of papillary thyroid cancer

BACKGROUND

Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is the most common endocrine malignant tumour. The purpose of this study was to explore the potential molecular mechanism of circRNA regulating immune-related mRNA through sponge miRNA in the occurrence and immune regulation of PTC.

METHODS

All data were downloaded from public databases, such as GEO, Immport and TCGA. Differentially expressed (DE) mRNAs (DEmRNAs), DEmiRNAs and DEcircRNAs were identified using metaMA and limma packages. Subsequently, immune-related DEmRNAs were screened, and circRNA-miRNA-mRNA (ceRNA) regulatory network was constructed. In addition, functional annotation, protein-protein interaction (PPI) network construction, immune cell infiltration analysis and Pearson correlation analysis were performed. Finally, qRT-PCR validation and cell experiments were also performed.

RESULTS

In total, 2962 DEmRNAs, 78 DEmiRNAs and 51 DEcircRNAs were obtained. Subsequently, 195 immune-related DEmRNAs were obtained based on Immport database. Cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction was the only signalling pathway obtained in KEGG analysis. Then, 8 hub immune-related DEmRNAs were identified based on PPI network and CytoHubba plug-in. Subsequently, ceRNA sub-network containing hub immune-related DEmRNAs was extracted from ceRNA regulatory network. In ceRNA sub-network, hsa_circ_0082182-hsa-miR-18b-5p-FGF1/PDGFC, hsa_circ_0016404-hsa-miR-1275-FGF1/CTSB/IL13RA1, hsa_circ_0070100-hsa-miR-27a-3p/hsa-miR-27b-3p-TGFBR3, hsa_circ_0060055/hsa_circ_0038718-hsa-miR-150-3p-CXCL14, hsa_circ_0030427/hsa_circ_0002917-hsa-miR-22-3p-BMP7 and hsa_circ_0030427/hsa_circ_0002917-hsa-miR-125a-5p-LIFR axes were identified. Moreover, FGF1, PDGFC, CTSB, IL13RA1, TGFBR3, CXCL14, BMP7, LIFR, hsa-miR-125a-5p, hsa-miR-1275, hsa-miR-150-3p, hsa-miR-18b-5p and hsa-miR-27b-3p were also found to have good diagnostic accuracy and may be potential novel diagnostic markers for PTC. XCell analysis showed that the levels of immune cell infiltration (including Tregs, HSC, DC and Monocytes) were significantly different between the PTC and the control groups. Knockdown of the expression of hsa_circ_0082182 significantly inhibits the activity, proliferation, migration and invasion of TPC-1 cells.

CONCLUSION

Several circRNA-miRNA-mRNA axes identified in this study may be related to the occurrence, progression and survival of PTC. This lays a theoretical foundation for further understanding the molecular mechanism of PTC, and also contributes to clinical management and research.

Exosomal microRNAs Targeting TP53 Gene as Promising Prognostic Markers for Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Statement of Problem  MicroRNAs are small non-coding RNAs that regulate an array of functions by targeting crucial genes. A significant dysregulation in the TP53 profile has been observed in the head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients. Hence, the present in silico study was designed to identify those microRNAs which target TP53 gene and demonstrate their differential expression in HNSCC cases. Materials and Methods  The study was extended further to explore their exosomal location using database such as EVmiRNA and ExoCarta. The study follows an observational in silico design. Computational tool miRDB was used identify the microRNA targets of TP53 gene. The UALCAN server was used to ascertain the expression of microRNA in HNSCC cases derived from the Cancer Gene Atlas dataset. The survival of HNSCC patients based on the differential expression microRNA markers were recorded. Further, each of the microRNA was queried for their exosomal presence using EVmiRNA. Results  About 102 microRNA targets of TP53 gene with a target score in the range of 95-50 were identified. The differential expression data for 52 microRNAs was retrieved from the UALCAN database. The microRNAs hsa-miR-421, hsa-miR-548f-5p, and hsa-let-7c-5p were found to be differentially expressed with marked influence over the survival of HNSCC patients. Furthermore, hsa-miR-421 and hsa-let-7c-5p were found to have an exosomal origin especially in body fluids such as blood and saliva. Conclusion  The results accumulated from the present study identified three microRNAs which can affect the functions of TP53 gene and bring about serious outcomes in HNSCC patients. The microRNAs of exosomal origin targeting TP53 gene in HNSCC patients can be a promising prognostic marker, which can be further used as a therapeutic lead by designing inhibitors.

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes shuttling miR-150-5p alleviates mechanical allodynia in rats by targeting NOTCH2 in microglia

Background

This study probes into the function and mechanism of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (BMSC)-derived exosomes loaded with miR-150-5p in mechanical allodynia.

Methods

BMSCs were infected with miR-150-5p inhibition lentiviruses to obtain exosomes with low miR-150-5p expression. A L5 spinal nerve ligation (SNL) model was established in rats where exosomes, NOTCH2 overexpression/inhibition plasmids, or microglial cells were intrathecally administered. Hind paw withdrawal threshold (PWT) and paw withdrawal latency (PWL) of rats were measured. TUNEL staining was used to measure the apoptotic rate in rat spinal dorsal horn (SDH), ELISA to evaluate pro-inflammatory factor levels, and RT-qPCR, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry to detect miR-150-5p and NOTCH2 expression. Immunofluorescence was used for localizing exosomes and NOTCH2 and detecting the expression of OX42, a maker for microglia. Dual luciferase reporter and RNA pull down assays were performed to validate the putative binding between miR-150-5p and NOTCH2.

Results

NOTCH2 expressed at a high level and miR-150-5p was downregulated in SDH of SNL rats. Exosomes injected were localized in rat SDH. BMSC-exosomes or NOTCH2 downregulation increased PWT and PWL of SNL rats and reduced apoptosis and inflammation in SDH. In contrast, NOTCH2 overexpression aggravated mechanical allodynia and SDH injury. Moreover, inhibiting miR-150-5p in BMSC-exosomes offset the therapeutic effects of BMSC-exosomes. Microglia activation induced mechanical allodynia in wild rats, while intrathecal injection of microglial cells incubated with BMSC-exosomes showed alleviated mechanical allodynia in SNL rats. NOTCH2 was targeted by miR-150-5p.

Conclusion

BMSC-derived exosomal miR-150-5p alleviates mechanical allodynia by targeting NOTCH2 in microglial cells.

MicroRNAs miR-142-5p, miR-150-5p, miR-320a-3p, and miR-4433b-5p in Serum and Tissue: Potential Biomarkers in Sporadic Breast Cancer

Breast cancer (BC) is a heterogeneous disease, and establishing biomarkers is essential to patient management. We previously described that extracellular vesicle–derived miRNAs (EV-miRNAs) miR-142-5p, miR-150-5p, miR-320a, and miR-4433b-5p in serum discriminated BC from control samples, either alone or combined in a panel. Using these previously described markers, we intend to evaluate whether the same markers identified in EVs are also potential biomarkers in tissue and serum. Expression analysis using RT-qPCR was performed using serum of 67 breast cancer patients (BC-S), 19 serum controls (CT), 83 fresh tumor tissues (BC-T), and 29 adjacent nontumor tissue samples (NT). In addition, analysis from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data (832 BC-T and 136 NT) was performed. In all comparisons, we found concordant high expression levels of miR-320a and miR-4433b-5p in BC-S compared to CT in both EVs and cell-free miRNAs (cf-miRNAs). Although miR-150-5p and miR-142-5p were not found to be differentially expressed in serum, panels including these miRNAs improved sensitivity and specificity, supporting our previous findings in EVs. Fresh tissue and data from the TCGA database had, in most comparisons, an opposite behavior when compared to serum and EVs: lower levels of all miRNAs in BC-T than those in NT samples. TCGA analyses revealed reduced expression levels of miR-150-5p and miR-320a-3p in BC-T than those in NT samples and the overexpression of miR-142-5p in BC-T, unlike our RT-qPCR results from tissue in the Brazilian cohort. The fresh tissue analysis showed that all miRNAs individually could discriminate between BC-T and NT in the Brazilian cohort, with high sensitivity and sensibility. Furthermore, combining panels showed higher AUC values and improved sensitivity and specificity. In addition, lower levels of miR-320a-3p in serum were associated with poor overall survival in BC Brazilian patients. In summary, we observed that miR-320a and miR-4433b-5p distinguished BC from controls with high specificity and sensibility, regardless of the sample source. In addition, lower levels of miR-150-5p and higher levels of miR-142-5p were statistically significant biomarkers in tissue, according to TCGA. When combined in panels, all combinations could distinguish BC patients from controls. These results highlight a potential application of these miRNAs as BC biomarkers.

Impact of miR-1/miR-133 Clustered miRNAs: PFN2 Facilitates Malignant Phenotypes in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Based on our original RNA sequence-based microRNA (miRNA) signatures of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), it was revealed that the expression levels of miR-1-3p, miR-206, miR-133a-3p, and miR-133b were significantly suppressed in cancer specimens. Seed sequences of miR-1-3p/miR-206 and miR-133a-3p/miR-133b are identical. Interestingly, miR-1-3p/miR-133a-3p and miR-206/miR-133b are clustered in the human genome. We hypothesized that the genes coordinately controlled by these miRNAs are closely involved in the malignant transformation of HNSCC. Our in silico analysis identified a total of 28 genes that had putative miR-1-3p/miR-133a-3p and miR-206/miR-133b binding sites. Moreover, their expression levels were upregulated in HNSCC tissues. Multivariate Cox regression analyses showed that expression of PFN2 and PSEN1 were independent prognostic factors for patients with HNSCC (p < 0.05). Notably, four miRNAs (i.e., miR-1-3p, miR-206, miR-133a-3p, and miR-133b) directly bound the 3′untranslated region of PFN2 and controlled expression of the gene in HNSCC cells. Overexpression of PFN2 was confirmed in clinical specimens, and its aberrant expression facilitated cancer cell migration and invasion abilities. Our miRNA-based strategy continues to uncover novel genes closely involved in the oncogenesis of HNSCC.

SPOCK1 with unexpected function. The start of a new career

SPOCK1, 2 and 3 are considered as matricellular proteoglycans without structural role. Their functions are only partly elucidated. SPOCK1 was detected in the brain as a member of the neural synapses, then in the neuromuscular junctions. It plays a role in the regulation of blood-brain barrier. Its best characterized activity was its oncogenic potential discovered in 2012. Its deleterious effect on tumor progression was detected on 36 different types of tumors by the end of 2020. However, its mode of actions is still not completely understood. Furthermore, even less was discovered about its physiological function. The fact that it was found to localize in the mitochondria and interfered with the lipid metabolism indicated, that the full discovery of SPOCK1 still waiting for us.

Regulation of Oncogenic Targets by Tumor-Suppressive miR-150-3p in Lung Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Several recent studies have shown that both strands of certain miRNAs derived from miRNA duplexes are involved in cancer pathogenesis. Our own recent studies revealed that both strands of the miR-150 duplex act as tumor-suppressive miRNAs in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) through the targeting of several oncogenes. The aim of the study here was to further investigate the tumor-suppressive roles of miR-150-3p (the passenger strand) in lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSQ) and its control of cancer-promoting genes in LUSQ cells. The downregulation of miR-150-3p in LUSQ tissues was confirmed by data in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). The ectopic expression of miR-150-3p attenuated cancer cell aggressive features, e.g., cell cycle arrest, migration and invasive abilities. Our target search strategy successfully identified a total of 49 putative targets that were listed as subjects of miR-150-3p regulation in LUSQ cells. Interestingly, among these targets, 17 genes were categorized as related to the “cell cycle” based on Gene Ontology (GO) classification, namely CENPA, CIT, CCNE1, CCNE2, TIMELESS, BUB1, MCM4, HELLS, SKA3, CDCA2, FANCD2, NUF2, E2F2, SUV39H2, CASC5, ZWILCH and CKAP2). Moreover, we show that the expression of HELLS (helicase, lymphoid specific) is directly controlled by miR-150-3p, and its expression promotes the malignant phenotype of LUSQ cells.

Multiple microRNA signature panel as promising potential for diagnosis and prognosis of head and neck cancer

MicroRNAs are small non-coding RNA that regulate gene expressions of human body. To date, numerous studies have reported that microRNAs possess great diagnostic and prognostic power in head and neck cancer and had governed a lot of attention. The factor for the successfulness of miRNAs in these aspects is due to cancer being fundamentally tied to genetic changes, which are regulated by these miRNAs. Head and neck cancer, leading the world record for cancer as number sixth, is caused by multiple risk factors such as tobacco consumption, alcohol consumption, dietary factors, ethnicity, family history, and human papilloma virus. It derives at locations such as oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, paranasal sinus and salivary gland and have high rate of mortality with high recurrence rate. Besides, head and neck cancer is also usually having poor prognosis due to its asymptomatic nature. However, this diagnostic and prognostic power can be further improved by using multiple panels of miRNA as a signature or even combined with TNM staging system to obtain even more remarkable results. This is due to multiple factors such as tumour heterogeneity and components of the tumour which may affect the composition of miRNAs. This review covers the examples of such miRNA signatures, compare their diagnostic and prognostic powers, discuss some controversial roles of unreported miRNAs, and the molecular mechanisms of the miRNAs in gene targeting and pathways.

Impact of Oncogenic Targets by Tumor-Suppressive miR-139-5p and miR-139-3p Regulation in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

We newly generated an RNA-sequencing-based microRNA (miRNA) expression signature of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Analysis of the signature revealed that both strands of some miRNAs, including miR-139-5p (the guide strand) and miR-139-3p (the passenger strand) of miR-139, were downregulated in HNSCC tissues. Analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas confirmed the low expression levels of miR-139 in HNSCC. Ectopic expression of these miRNAs attenuated the characteristics of cancer cell aggressiveness (e.g., cell proliferation, migration, and invasion). Our in silico analyses revealed a total of 28 putative targets regulated by pre-miR-139 (miR-139-5p and miR-139-3p) in HNSCC cells. Of these, the GNA12 (guanine nucleotide-binding protein subunit alpha-12) and OLR1 (oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor 1) expression levels were identified as independent factors that predicted patient survival according to multivariate Cox regression analyses (p = 0.0018 and p = 0.0104, respectively). Direct regulation of GNA12 and OLR1 by miR-139-3p in HNSCC cells was confirmed through luciferase reporter assays. Moreover, overexpression of GNA12 and OLR1 was detected in clinical specimens of HNSCC through immunostaining. The involvement of miR-139-3p (the passenger strand) in the oncogenesis of HNSCC is a new concept in cancer biology. Our miRNA-based strategy will increase knowledge on the molecular pathogenesis of HNSCC.

LncRNA SLCO4A1-AS1 modulates colon cancer stem cell properties by binding to miR-150-3p and positively regulating SLCO4A1

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play important roles in a range of different human cancers. However, the role of lncRNA solute carrier organic anion transporter family member 4A1-AS1 (SLCO4A1-AS1) in colon cancer remains enigmatic. Hence, we aimed to explore the specific role of SLCO4A1-AS1 in colon cancer stem cells. Colon cancer-related differentially expressed lncRNA and mRNA were screened using microarray-based analysis, and the expression of SLCO4A1-AS1 and SLCO4A1 in colon cancer tissues was determined using reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis. The interaction among SLCO4A1-AS1, microRNA-150-3p (miR-150-3p) and SLCO4A1 was verified using dual-luciferase reporter assay, RNA immunoprecipitation and RNA pull-down. Moreover, SLCO4A1-AS1, miR-150-3p and/or SLCO4A1 were overexpressed or depleted in colon cancer cells to detect their effects on migration, invasion, sphere formation, apoptosis and tumorigenesis abilities of colon cancer stem CD133+CD44+ cells using both in vitro and in vivo assays. SLCO4A1-AS1 and SLCO4A1 were screened as the differentially expressed lncRNA and mRNA in colon cancer tissues. SLCO4A1-AS1 was confirmed to competitively bind to miR-150-3p to elevate SLCO4A1 expression. Moreover, knockdown of SLCO4A1-AS1 decreased SLCO4A1 expression, thus inhibiting cell migration, invasion, sphere formation, and tumorigenesis abilities and enhancing the apoptosis of CD133+CD44+ cells. Collectively, these findings provide evidence demonstrating that depleting SLCO4A1-AS1 competitively binds to miR-150-3p, which downregulates SLCO4A1 expression, thus hindering colon cancer progression.

Identification of Tumor Suppressive Genes Regulated by miR-31-5p and miR-31-3p in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

We identified the microRNA (miRNA) expression signature of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) tissues by RNA sequencing, in which 168 miRNAs were significantly upregulated, including both strands of the miR-31 duplex (miR-31-5p and miR-31-3p). The aims of this study were to identify networks of tumor suppressor genes regulated by miR-31-5p and miR-31-3p in HNSCC cells. Our functional assays showed that inhibition of miR-31-5p and miR-31-3p attenuated cancer cell malignant phenotypes (cell proliferation, migration, and invasion), suggesting that they had oncogenic potential in HNSCC cells. Our in silico analysis revealed 146 genes regulated by miR-31 in HNSCC cells. Among these targets, the low expression of seven genes (miR-31-5p targets: CACNB2 and IL34; miR-31-3p targets: CGNL1, CNTN3, GAS7, HOPX, and PBX1) was closely associated with poor prognosis in HNSCC. According to multivariate Cox regression analyses, the expression levels of five of those genes (CACNB2: p = 0.0189; IL34: p = 0.0425; CGNL1: p = 0.0014; CNTN3: p = 0.0304; and GAS7: p = 0.0412) were independent prognostic factors in patients with HNSCC. Our miRNA signature and miRNA-based approach will provide new insights into the molecular pathogenesis of HNSCC.

Roles of adiponectin and leptin signaling-related microRNAs in the preventive effects of calorie restriction in mammary tumor development

Calorie restriction (CR) is suggested to prevent the development of mammary tumors (MTs); however, the mechanism remains to be clarified. We aimed to determine the microRNA (miRNA) profile in mice applied to 2 different CR protocols; chronic (CCR) and intermittent (ICR) and follow the MT development. In addition, the roles of miRNAs involved in adiponectin and/or leptin signaling pathways were investigated. Mice were divided into 3 groups: ad-libitum (AL), CCR, or ICR, which comprised 3 weeks of AL feeding followed by 1 week of 60% CR in a cyclic manner. Blood and tissue collection were performed at weeks 10, 17/18, 49/50 and 81/82. Long-term CCR provided better protection compared with ICR for MT development with a delay in the MT occurrence. Adiponectin expression in mammary fat pad were significantly higher in CCR group compared with AL. Using GeneChip Array, 250 of 3195 miRNAs were differentially expressed among the dietary groups. Thirteen of 250 miRNAs were related to adiponectin and/or leptin signaling genes. Results were verified by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Specifically, miR-326-3p, miR-500-3p and miR-129-5p, which are related to adiponectin and/or leptin signaling, may play important roles in the preventive effects of CR in MT development and in ageing. Thus, these miRNAs might be putative biomarkers to target for diagnostic and treatment purposes. Novelty: Type of CR and micro RNA interaction is related to ageing. miR-326-3p, miR-500-3p and miR-129-5p expression levels were differentially expressed in MT development and in ageing. The genes associated with adiponectin and/or leptin signaling pathways are regulated by certain miRNAs in the protective effects of CR.

Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells-Derived Exosomal MicroRNA-150-3p Promotes Osteoblast Proliferation and Differentiation in Osteoporosis

At present, much more studies have focused on the role of microRNAs in osteoporosis, but the more specific role of microRNA-150-3p (miR-150-3p) in osteoporosis still needs full exploration. We aim at investigating the role of miR-150-3p in osteoporosis and at exploring the related mechanisms. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) were cultured, from which exosomes were isolated. Osteoporosis models were established by ovariectomy and injected with transfected BMSCs exosomes. Bone formation markers in serum, histopathological changes and miR-150-3p, runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) and Osterix expression, and osteoblast apoptosis in femoral tissues were detected. Osteoblasts were isolated and co-cultured with the transfected BMSCs-derived exosomes. Osteoblast proliferation, cell differentiation, and apoptosis, along with miR-150-3p, Runx2, and Osterix expression in osteoblasts were detected. In vivo experiment demonstrated that miR-150-3p, Runx2, and Osterix expression was decreased whereas bone formation markers were decreased in osteoporosis. BMSCs exosomes attenuated osteoporosis, which was further improved by upregulated miR-150-3p in exosomes whereas it was impaired by downregulated miR-150-3p in exosomes. In vitro experiments declared decreased miR-150-3p, Runx2, and Osterix expression; suppressed proliferation; and encouraged apoptosis in osteoblasts in osteoporosis. BMSCs exosomes promoted osteoblast proliferation and differentiation and inhibited apoptosis, which was strengthened by raised exosomal miR-150-3p whereas it was disrupted by inhibited exosomal miR-150-3p. Our study elucidates that exosomal miR-150-3p promotes osteoblast proliferation and differentiation in osteoporosis and provides a new clue for the treatment of patients with osteoporosis.

SPOCK1 induces adipose tissue maturation: New insights into the function of SPOCK1 in metabolism

SPOCK1 is a calcium-binding matricellular proteoglycan that has been extensively studied in several cancer cells. Previously, we generated a mouse line overexpressing SPOCK1 (Spock1-Tg mouse) and showed that SPOCK1 might play an important role in drug-induced gingival overgrowth, indicating that it possesses physiological functions in non-cancer diseases as well. Although SPOCK1 was reported to be secreted from human adipocytes, its role in adipocyte physiology has not been addressed yet. In this study, SPOCK1 protein expression was confirmed in pancreas, adipose tissues, spleen, and liver of normal diet (ND)-fed mice. Interestingly, SPOCK1 was up-regulated in the pancreas and adipose tissues of the high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice. Spock1-Tg mice fed with ND showed increased maturation in epididymal and inguinal adipose tissues. In addition, Spock1 overexpression strongly decreased expression of UCP-1 in adipose tissues, suggesting that SPOCK1 might regulate thermogenic function through suppression of UCP-1 expression. Finally, exogenous SPOCK1 treatment directly accelerated the differentiation of 3T3-L1 adipocytes, accompanied by the up-regulation of adipocyte differentiation-related gene expression. In conclusion, we demonstrated for the first time that SPOCK1 induced adipocyte differentiation via the up-regulation of adipogenesis-related genes.

Comprehensive in silico analysis for identification of novel candidate target genes, including DHX36, OPA1, and SENP2, located on chromosome 3q in head and neck cancers

BACKGROUND

Major milestones of head and neck carcinogenesis have been associated with various genetic abnormalities; however, a clear picture of the molecular networks deregulated during the carcinogenesis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSC) has not yet completely revealed.

METHODS

In this study, we used in silico tools and online data sets to evaluate the underlying reasons for the expressional changes of genes residing within the chromosome 3q and to help understanding their contributions to HNSC carcinogenesis.

RESULTS

We found that 13 of 20 most upregulated genes in HNSC are localized to 3q. Further analysis revealed a gene signature consisting of DHX36, OPA1, and SENP2, which showed significant correlation in HNSC samples and potentially be deregulated through similar mechanisms including DNA amplification, transcriptional, and posttranscriptional regulation.

CONCLUSIONS

Considering our findings, we suggest DHX36, OPA1, and SENP2 genes as overexpressed in HNSC tumors and that might be concurrently involved in HNSC carcinogenesis, tumor progression, and induction of angiogenic pathways.

Sweet Control: MicroRNA Regulation of the Glycome

Glycosylation is a sophisticated informational system that controls specific biological functions at the cellular and organismal level. Dysregulation of glycosylation may underlie some of the most complex and common diseases of the modern era. In the past 5 years, microRNAs have come to the forefront as a critical regulator of the glycome. Herein, we review the current literature on miRNA regulation of glycosylation and how this work may point to a new way to identify the biological importance of glycosylation enzymes.

Long noncoding RNA ZFAS1 promotes tumorigenesis through regulation of miR-150-5p/RAB9A in melanoma

Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer and one of the most aggressive cancers. ZFAS1 is a newly identified lncRNA, playing an oncogenic role in several types of cancer. The present study aimed to investigate the function and mechanism of ZFAS1-induced regulation of melanoma. ZFAS1 expression was increased in melanoma tissues and cells compared with normal controls. ZFAS1 expression in metastatic tissues was higher than that in nonmetastatic subjects. Higher expression of ZFAS1 predicted lower survival rates. Knockdown of ZFAS1 decreased proliferation, increased apoptosis, decreased migration and invasion, and reduced epithelial-mesenchymal transition potential in melanoma cells. Moreover, ZFAS1 knockdown inhibited tumor growth in nude mice. There was a direct binding between ZFAS1 and miR-150-5p. ZFAS1 negatively regulated miR-150-5p expression and upregulation of miR-150-5p was involved in ZFAS1 knockdown-induced effect on proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion. Using bioinformatics, we predicted the binding between RAB9A and miR-150-5p, and the direct interaction between RAB9A and miR-150-5p was confirmed by luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation assays. We also showed that RAB9A expression was regulated negatively by miR-150-5p, but was regulated positively by ZFAS1. Downregulation of RAB9A significantly inhibited the increase in proliferation, decrease in apoptosis, and increase in migration and invasion induced by miR-150-5p inhibitors. Moreover, RAB9A knockdown decreased proliferation, increased apoptosis, and decreased migration and invasion in melanoma cells. In summary, we confirmed the tumor-promoting role of ZFAS1 in melanoma and provide evidence for the role and mechanism of the ZFAS1/miR-150-5p/RAB9A axis. These findings may lead to novel therapeutic strategies for melanoma.

SPOCK1 is a novel inducer of epithelial to mesenchymal transition in drug-induced gingival overgrowth

Few studies have investigated the role of extracellular-matrix proteoglycans in the pathogenesis of drug-induced gingival overgrowth (DIGO). SPOCK1 is an extracellular proteoglycan that induces epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) in several cancer cell lines and exhibits protease-inhibitory activity. However, the role of SPOCK1 in non-cancerous diseases such as DIGO has not been well-addressed. We demonstrated that the expression of SPOCK1, TGF-β1, and MMP-9 in calcium channel blocker-induced gingival overgrowth is higher than that in non-overgrowth tissues. Transgenic mice overexpressing Spock1 developed obvious gingival-overgrowth and fibrosis phenotypes, and positively correlated with EMT-like changes. Furthermore, in vitro data indicated a tri-directional interaction between SPOCK1, TGF-β1, and MMP-9 that led to gingival overgrowth. Our study shows that SPOCK1 up-regulation in a noncancerous disease and SPOCK1-induced EMT in gingival overgrowth occurs via cooperation and crosstalk between several potential signaling pathways. Therefore, SPOCK1 is a novel therapeutic target for gingival overgrowth and its expression is a potential risk of EMT induction in cancerous lesions.

MIAT inhibits proliferation of cervical cancer cells through regulating miR-150-5p

Background

To characterize the MIAT expression in cervical cancer and elucidate its mechanistic involvement in the tumor biology of this disease.

Methods

The relative expression of MIAT and miR-150 was determined by real-time PCR. Cell proliferation was measured by the CCK-8 and clonogenic assay. The anchorage-independent growth was evaluated by soft agar assay. The in vivo tumor progression was assayed with xenograft mice model. The regulatory effect of miR-150 on MIAT was interrogated by luciferase reporter assay. The endogenous CNKD1B protein was detected by western blotting.

Results

The low expression of MIAT was characterized in cervical cancer, which associated with relatively poor prognosis. Ectopic expression of MIAT inhibited malignant growth of cervical cancer both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, MIAT regulated CDKN1B expression via competition with miR-150, and miR-150-inhibition directly suppressed cervical cancer cell growth.

Conclusions

Our study characterized the anti-tumor property of MIAT in cervical cancer and elucidated its competitively regulation of CDKN1B with miR-150. Our data highlighted the critical role of MIAT-miR-150-CDKN1B signaling axis in cervical cancer.

SPOCK1 Involvement in Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition: A New Target in Cancer Therapy?

Background

Cancer metastasis is the main obstacle to increasing the lifespan of cancer patients. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays a significant role in oncogenic processes, including tumor invasion, intravasation, and micrometastasis formation, and is especially critical for cancer invasion and metastasis. The extracellular matrix (ECM) plays a crucial role in the occurrence of EMT corresponding to the change in adhesion between cells and matrices.

Conclusion

SPOCK1 is a critical regulator of the ECM and mediates EMT in cancer cells. This suggests an important role for SPOCK1 in tumorigenesis, migration and invasion. SPOCK1 is a critical regulator of some processes involved in cancer progression, including cancer cell proliferation, apoptosis and migration. Herein, the functions of SPOCK1 in cancer progression are expounded, revealing the association between SPOCK1 and EMT in cancer metastasis. SPOCK1 is a positive downstream regulator of transforming growth factor-β, and SPOCK1-mediated EMT regulates invasion and metastasis through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. It is of significance that SPOCK1 may be an attractive prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target in cancer treatment.

miR-223-5p targeting ERG inhibits prostate cancer cell proliferation and migration

Ectopic expression of miR-223-5p, the lagging strand of miR-223 duplex, has been reported acting as anti-tumor miRNA in many cancers. How miR-223-5p influencing prostate cancer (PCa) remains obscure and worth of experimental investigation. In this study, the expressions of miR-223-5p and ERG in common PCa cell lines were detected and compared to RWPE-1, respectively. Then luciferase reporter assay was performed to verify whether miR-223-5p could specifically target and regulate ERG. Further discovery ERG's role in the PCa oncogenesis was also conducted by up or down regulating miR-223-3p expression. We found miR-223-5p was significantly down-regulated in DU145, while it was only up-regulated in LNCaP. Similarly, ERG expression remarkably decreased in both PC-3 and DU145 than that in RWPE-1, but significantly increasing in LNCaP. Luciferase assay demonstrated slightly decreased ERG expression after miR-223-5p-mimics but significantly increased ERG expression after miR-223-5p-inhibtor. Using gene interference, we further confirmed that both ERG mRNA and protein expressions were decreased in all PCa lines transfected ERG siRNA, but increasing in both DU145 and LNCaP cells with miR-223-5p antisense oligonucleotides. MTT assay, Transwell invasion and migration assay supported the function of ERG in PCa oncogenesis. We revealed tumor suppressive abilities of miR-223-5p in PCa by negatively targeting ERG gene. It could serve as a fundamental supplement and extension of our previous study about miR-223-3p in PCa, revealing the coordinative regulation between miR-223-5p and miR-223-3p in PCa cell biological behaviors. Exploration of miR-233-duplex orientated pathway networks may help us develop novel potential therapeutic options for PCa.

Functional Landscape of Dysregulated MicroRNAs in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Clinical Implications

MicroRNA (miRNA) dysregulation is associated with the pathogenesis of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), and its elucidation could potentially provide information on patient outcome. A growing body of translational research on miRNA biology is focusing on precision oncology, aiming to decode the miRNA regulatory network in the development and progression of cancer. Tissue-specific expression and stable presence in all body fluids are unique features of miRNAs, which could be potentially exploited in the clinical setting. Recent understanding of miRNA properties has led them to be useful, attractive, and potential tools either as biomarkers (distinct miRNA expression signature) for diagnosis and prognostic outcomes or as targets for novel therapeutic entities, enabling personalized treatment for OSCC. In this review, we discuss recent research on different aspects of alterations in miRNA profiles along with their clinical significance and strive to identify probable potential miRNA biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis of OSCC. We also discuss the current understanding and scope of development of miRNA-based therapeutics against OSCC.

Downregulation of serum exosomal miR-150-5p is associated with poor prognosis in patients with colorectal cancer

Growing evidence have revealed the serum exosomal miRNAs emerged as biomarkers for various cancer types, including colorectal cancer (CRC). Here, we sought to explore the potential clinical significance of serum exosomal miR-150-5p in CRC. A total of 133 CRC patients and 60 healthy volunteers as control group were recruited in this study. Exosomes were isolated from the serum of all the participants. The total RNA was isolated from the exosomes and the serum exosomal miR-150-5p levels were measured by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. The findings showed that the serum exosomal miR-150-5p levels were significantly reduced in CRC cases compared with those in the control group. Serum exosomal miR-150-5p levels in post-operative blood samples were greatly upregulated one month after surgical treatment. In addition, decreased serum exosomal miR-150-5p expression was closely correlated with poorly differentiation, positive lymph node metastasis and advanced TNM stage. Moreover, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed serum exosomal miR-150-5p level had good performance to identify CRC cases from healthy volunteers, and a combination of serum exosomal miR-150-5p and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) could improve the diagnostic accuracy with an increased the area under the ROC curve (AUC) value. Furthermore, the survival time of patients with higher serum exosomal miR-150-5p expression was significantly longer than those with lower expression. Serum exosomal miR-150-5p was confirmed as an independent prognostic indicator in CRC. Mechanistically, ZEB1 was identified as a direct downstream target of miR-150-5p. Collectively, serum exosomal miR-150-5p might be a novel noninvasive biomarker for CRC diagnosis and prognosis.

miR-150-5p suppresses the stem cell-like characteristics of glioma cells by targeting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway

Glioma is the most common brain tumor malignancy with high mortality and poor prognosis. Emerging evidence suggests that cancer stem cells are the key culprit in the development of cancer. MicroRNAs have been reported to be dysregulated in many cancers, while the mechanism underlying miR-150-5p in glioma progression and proportion of stem cells is unclear. The expression levels of miR-150-5p and catenin beta 1 (CTNNB1, which encodes β-catenin) were measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blot. The expression levels of downstream genes of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and stem cell markers were detected by qRT-PCR. Tumorigenesis was investigated by cell viability, colony formation, and tumor growth in vitro and in vivo. The interaction between miR-150-5p and β-catenin was explored via bioinformatics analysis and luciferase activity assay. We found that miR-150-5p was downregulated in glioma and its overexpression inhibited cell proliferation, colony formation, and tumor growth. Moreover, miR-150-5p directly suppressed CTNNB1 and negatively regulated the abundances of downstream genes of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and stem cell markers. Furthermore, miR-150-5p expression was decreased and β-catenin level was enhanced in CD133+ glioma stem cells. Knockdown of miR-150-5p contributed to CD133- cells with stem cell-like phenotype, whereas overexpression of miR-150-5p suppressed CD133+ glioma stem cell-like characteristics. In conclusion, miR-150-5p inhibited the progression of glioma by controlling stem cell-like characteristics via regulating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, providing a novel target for glioma treatment.

Role of linc00174/miR-138-5p (miR-150-5p)/FOSL2 Feedback Loop on Regulating the Blood-Tumor Barrier Permeability

The blood-tumor barrier (BTB) limits the transport of chemotherapeutic drugs to brain tumor tissues and impacts the treatment of glioma. Long non-coding RNAs play critical roles in various biological processes of tumors; however, the function of these in BTB permeability is still unclear. In this study, we have identified that long intergenic non-protein coding RNA 174 (linc00174) was upregulated in glioma endothelial cells (GECs) from glioma tissues. Additionally, linc00174 was also upregulated in GECs from the BTB model in vitro. Knock down of linc00174 increased BTB permeability and reduced the expression of the tight junction-related proteins ZO-1, occludin, and claudin-5. Both bioinformatics data and results of luciferase reporter assays demonstrated that linc00174 regulated BTB permeability by binding to miR-138-5p and miR-150-5p. Furthermore, knock down of linc00174 inhibited FOSL2 expression via upregulating miR-138-5p and miR-150-5p. FOSL2 interacted with the promoter regions and upregulated the promoter activity of ZO-1, occludin, claudin-5, and linc00174 in GECs. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that the linc00174/miR-138-5p (miR-150-5p)/FOSL2 feedback loop played an essential role in regulating BTB permeability.

LncRNA PART1 regulates colorectal cancer via targeting miR-150-5p/miR-520h/CTNNB1 and activating Wnt/β-catenin pathway

Numerous studies have reported that lncRNAs could play a significant role in carcinogenesis. PART1, as an identified lncRNA, was an oncogene in several cancers. However, the underling mechanism of PART1 regulating colorectal cancer remains unknown. qRT-PCR was used to measure relevant RNAs expression. CCK8 and colony formation were combined to evaluate cell proliferation. Tunel and flow cytometry were performed to access cell apoptosis. Wound healing and Transwell assay testified cell invasion and migration ability. Relevant protein expression level was measured via Western blot assay. TOP/FOP luciferase assay determined the activity of Wnt/β-catenin pathway. According to experiment findings, PART1 was up-regulated in CRC tissues and cell lines. Inhibition of PART1 hindered CRC cell proliferation, invasion and migration, while promoting CRC cell apoptosis. Experiments in vivo also validated this result. Mechanistically, PART1 sponged miR-150-5p/miR-520 h to up-regulate CTNNB1, thus activating Wnt/β-catenin pathway in CRC. In summary, PART1 could up-regulate CTNNB1 via sponging miR-150-5p/miR-520 h.

Low miR-150-5p and miR-320b Expression Predicts Reduced Survival of COPD Patients

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is associated with an increased risk of death, reducing life expectancy on average between 5 and 7 years. The survival time after diagnosis, however, varies considerably as a result of the heterogeneity of COPD. Therefore, markers that predict individual survival of COPD patients are of great value. We analyzed baseline molecular profiles and collected 54 months of follow-up data of the cohort study “COPD and SYstemic consequences-COmorbidities NETwork” (COSYCONET). Genome-wide microRNA signatures from whole blood collected at time of the inclusion in the study were generated for 533 COPD patients including patients that deceased during the 54-month follow-up period (n = 53) and patients that survived this period (n = 480). We identified two blood-born microRNAs (miR-150-5p and miR-320b) that were highly predictive for survival of COPD patients. The expression change was then confirmed by RT-qPCR in 245 individuals. Ninety percent of patients with highest expression of miR-150-5p survived the 54-month period in contrast to only 50% of patients with lowest expression intensity. Moreover, the abundance of the oncogenic miR-150-5p in blood of COPD patients was predictive for the development of cancer. Thus, molecular profiles measured at the time of a COPD diagnosis have a high predictive power for the survival of patients.

Upregulated circRNA ARHGAP10 Predicts an Unfavorable Prognosis in NSCLC through Regulation of the miR-150-5p/GLUT-1 Axis

Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is one of the deadliest cancers in the world. Circular RNA (circRNA) has been shown to participate in oncogenesis regulation, including lung cancer. Although the involvement of circRNAs in lung cancer has been reported, the regulatory mechanisms of circRNAs in NSCLC remain poorly understood. Thus, the present study aims at investigating the role of circARHGAP10 in NSCLC progression, which has been observed to be significantly upregulated in both NSCLC tissues and cell lines with profile analysis. A higher expression of circARHGAP10 also leads to a poor prognosis in NSCLC patients with fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Both in vitro and in vivo experiments found that the downregulation of circARHGAP10 suppressed glycometabolism by decreasing GLUT1 expression. Silencing circARHGAP10 also suppressed proliferation and metastasis by targeting the miR-150-5p/GLUT1 axis in NSCLC, which was confirmed with a luciferase reporter assay. Overexpression of GLUT1 or downregulation miR-150-5p will recover NSCLC cell proliferation and metastasis after a knockdown of circARHGAP10. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that circARHGAP10 suppresses NSCLC progression by acting as a miR-150-5p sponge to promote GLUT1 expression. Thus, circARHGAP10 may be a potential target for NSCLC treatment.

MicroRNA-150-5p and SRC kinase signaling inhibitor 1 involvement in the pathological development of gastric cancer

The current study aimed to assess the regulatory mechanism of microRNA-150-5p (miR-150-5p) in the pathogenesis of gastric cancer. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was performed to verify the expression of miR-150-5p in gastric cancer tissues and cell lines, which was revealed to be highly expressed in each. In addition, the expression of miR-150-5p was associated with advanced gastric cancer and lymph node metastasis. The current study then hypothesized that SRC kinase signaling inhibitor 1 (SRCIN1) was the target gene of miR-150-5p, a theory that was confirmed via a dual luciferase reporter gene assay. RT-qPCR and western blotting were then performed to verify the expression of SRCIN1 in gastric cancer tissues and cell lines. The results demonstrated that SRCIN1 was lowly expressed in gastric cancer tissues and cells. To assess the effect of miR-150-5p on gastric cancer cells, experiments were conducted with BGC-823 cells transfected with a miR-150-5p inhibitor or a miR-150-5p inhibitor+SRCIN1-small interfering (si)RNA respectively. A cell counting kit-8 assay and flow cytometry were also used to assess cell viability and apoptosis, respectively. Western blotting and RT-qPCR were further used to measure the expression of specific markers of epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT), including epithelial cell markers (E-cadherin and zona occluding-1) and interstitial cell markers (vimentin, N-cadherin and β-catenin). The results revealed that the miR-150-5p inhibitor attenuated cell viability, induced apoptosis, decreased the expression of interstitial cell markers and increased epithelial cell marker expression. However, all effects of the miR-150-5p inhibitor were reversed following SRCIN1-siRNA treatment. In summary, the current study indicated that the miR-150-5p inhibitor attenuated cell viability, induced apoptosis and inhibited gastric cancer cell EMT by targeting SRCIN1.

Targeting EZH2 as a novel therapeutic strategy for sorafenib-resistant thyroid carcinoma

Thyroid carcinoma is the most common endocrine malignancy. Surgery, post‐operative selective iodine‐131 and thyroid hormone suppression were the most common methods for the therapy of thyroid carcinoma. Although most patients with differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) showed positive response for these therapeutic methods, some patients still have to face the radioactive iodine (RAI)‐refractory problems. Sorafenib is an oral multikinase inhibitor for patients with advanced RAI refractory DTC. However, the side effects and drug resistance of sorafenib suggest us to develop novel drugs and strategies for the therapy of thyroid carcinoma. In this study, we firstly found that patients with sorafenib resistance showed no significant change in rapidly accelerated fibrosarcoma and VEGFR expression levels compared with sorafenib sensitive patients. Moreover, a further miRNAs screen by qRT‐PCR indicated that miR‐124‐3p and miR‐506‐3p (miR‐124/506) were remarkably reduced in sorafenib insensitive patients. With a bioinformatics prediction and functional assay validation, we revealed that enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) was the direct target for miR‐124/506. Interestingly, we finally proved that the sorafenib resistant cells regained sensitivity for sorafenib by EZH2 intervention with miR‐124/506 overexpression or EZH2 inhibitor treatment in vitro and in vivo, which will lead to the decreased tri‐methylation at lysine 27 of histone H3 (H3K27me3) and increased acetylated lysine 27 of histone H3 (H3K27ac) levels. Therefore, we conclude that the suppression of EZH2 represents a potential target for thyroid carcinoma therapy.

Molecular Pathogenesis of Gene Regulation by the miR-150 Duplex: miR-150-3p Regulates TNS4 in Lung Adenocarcinoma

Based on our miRNA expression signatures, we focused on miR-150-5p (the guide strand) and miR-150-3p (the passenger strand) to investigate their functional significance in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Downregulation of miR-150 duplex was confirmed in LUAD clinical specimens. In vitro assays revealed that ectopic expression of miR-150-5p and miR-150-3p inhibited cancer cell malignancy. We performed genome-wide gene expression analyses and in silico database searches to identify their oncogenic targets in LUAD cells. A total of 41 and 26 genes were identified as miR-150-5p and miR-150-3p targets, respectively, and they were closely involved in LUAD pathogenesis. Among the targets, we investigated the oncogenic roles of tensin 4 (TNS4) because high expression of TNS4 was strongly related to poorer prognosis of LUAD patients (disease-free survival: p = 0.0213 and overall survival: p = 0.0003). Expression of TNS4 was directly regulated by miR-150-3p in LUAD cells. Aberrant expression of TNS4 was detected in LUAD clinical specimens and its aberrant expression increased the aggressiveness of LUAD cells. Furthermore, we identified genes downstream from TNS4 that were associated with critical regulators of genomic stability. Our approach (discovery of anti-tumor miRNAs and their target RNAs for LUAD) will contribute to the elucidation of molecular networks involved in the malignant transformation of LUAD.

MicroRNAs and their role in environmental chemical carcinogenesis

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small, noncoding RNA species that play crucial roles across many biological processes and in the pathogenesis of major diseases, including cancer. Recent studies suggest that the expression of miRNA is altered by certain environmental chemicals, including metals, organic pollutants, cigarette smoke, pesticides and carcinogenic drugs. In addition, extensive studies have indicated the existence and importance of miRNA in different cancers, suggesting that cancer-related miRNAs could serve as potential markers for chemically induced cancers. The altered expression of miRNA was considered to be a vital pathogenic role in xenobiotic-induced cancer development. However, the significance of miRNA in the etiology of cancer and the exact mechanisms by which environmental factors alter miRNA expression remain relatively unexplored. Hence, understanding the interaction of miRNAs with environmental chemicals will provide important information on mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of chemically induced cancers, and effectively diagnose and treat human cancers resulting from chronic or acute carcinogen exposure. This study presents the current evidence that the miRNA deregulation induced by various chemical carcinogens, different cancers caused by environmental carcinogens and the potentially related genes in the onset or progression of cancer. For each carcinogen, the specifically expressed miRNA may be considered as the early biomarkers of the cancer process. In this review, we also summarize various target genes of the altered miRNA, oncogenes or anti-oncogenes, and the existing evidence regarding the gene regulation mechanisms of cancer caused by environmentally induced miRNA alteration. The future perspective of miRNA may become attractive targets for the diagnosis and treatment of carcinogen-induced cancer.

Long non‑coding RNA FOXD2‑AS1/miR‑150‑5p/PFN2 axis regulates breast cancer malignancy and tumorigenesis

Breast cancer (BC) is a common cancer and leading cause of cancer‑associated mortality in women. Abnormal expression of long non‑coding RNA FOXD2 adjacent opposite strand RNA 1 (FOXD2‑AS1) was associated with the development of a number of tumors. However, whether FOXD2‑AS1 is dysregulated in BC and its underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In the present study, it was identified that FOXD2‑AS1 expression was upregulated in BC tissue, cell lines and sphere subpopulation. Additionally, the abnormal upregulation of FOXD2‑AS1 predicted poor prognosis in patients with BC. Furthermore, downregulation of FOXD2‑AS1 decreased cell proliferation, and migratory and invasive abilities in BC cells, and decreased the growth of transplanted tumors in vivo. Downregulation of FOXD2‑AS1 decreased the percentage of CD44 antigen+/signal transducer CD24- in breast cancer stem cell (BCSC) cells, and decreased the expression of numerous stem factors, including Nanog, octamer‑binding transcription factor 4 (Oct4), and sex determining region Y‑box 2 (SOX2), and inhibited the epithelial‑mesenchymal transition process. FOXD2‑AS1 was identified to be primarily located in the cytoplasm. Using bioinformatics analysis, a reporter gene assay and reverse transcription‑polymerase chain reaction assays, it was demonstrated that microRNA (miR)‑150‑5p was able to bind directly with the 3'‑untranslated region of FOXD2‑AS1 and PFN2 mRNA. miR‑150‑5p mimics decreased the cell proliferation, migration and invasion of BC cells. FOXD2‑AS1 knockdown significantly inhibited the miR‑150‑5p inhibitor‑induced increase in Nanog, Oct4 and SOX2 expression. The miR‑150‑5p inhibitor‑induced increase in N‑cadherin, and decrease in E‑cadherin and vimentin was inhibited by FOXD2‑AS1 knockdown. Profilin 2 (PFN2) expression was significantly upregulated in BC tissues. Additionally, the abnormal upregulation of PFN2 was associated with poor prognosis in patients with BC. FOXD2‑AS1 and PFN2 expression was positively correlated. Collectively, the present results demonstrated the role of the FOXD2‑AS1/miR‑150‑5p/PFN2 axis in the development of BC, and provides novel targets for the treatment of BC, and potential biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis of BC.

Testican 1 (SPOCK1) and protein tyrosine phosphatase, receptor type S (PTPRS) show significant increase in saliva of tobacco users with oral cancer

Objectives:

To identify potential candidate proteins which are secretory in nature and present at a higher abundance in oral cancer patients with tobacco habits.

Methods:

Conditioned media of tobacco-treated and -untreated non-neoplastic oral keratinocytes were analyzed using iTRAQ-based mass spectrometry. Hypersecreted proteins; SPARC (osteonectin), cwcv and kazal like domains proteoglycan 1 (SPOCK1); prosaposin (PSAP); and protein tyrosine phosphatase, receptor type S (PTPRS) were validated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using saliva samples from oral cancer patients who are tobacco users.

Results:

Proteomic analysis of tobacco-treated and -untreated cells led to the identification of 2873 proteins. Among these, 378 proteins showed high abundance and 253 proteins showed low abundance (2-fold cutoff) in conditioned-media of tobacco-treated cells. ELISA-based validation showed significantly higher levels of SPOCK1, PSAP, and PTPRS in oral cancer patients with tobacco chewing habits compared to healthy controls. However, PSAP showed low specificity compared to SPOCK1 and PTPRS.

Conclusions:

This study indicates significantly increased levels of SPOCK1, PSAP, and PTPRS in saliva of oral cancer patients with tobacco habits. These protein biomarkers might be useful to identify tobacco users with high risk of developing oral cancers.

Competing endogenous RNA analysis reveals the regulatory potency of circRNA_036186 in HNSCC

This study aimed to characterize circular RNA (circRNA) expression profiles and biological functions in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Differentially expressed circRNAs were screened using an Arraystar Human CircRNA Array and verified by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Multiple bioinformatics methods and a hypergeometric test were employed to predict the interactions between RNAs and the functional circRNA-microRNA (miRNA)-mRNA axes in HNSCC. As a result, 287 circRNAs and 1,053 mRNAs were determined to be differentially expressed in HNSCC compared with the adjacent tissue. In addition, the expression levels of circRNA_036186 and tyrosine 3-monooxygenase/tryptophan 5-monooxygenase activation protein, ζ polypeptide (14-3-3ζ) were identified to be significantly different. A competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network was constructed, consisting of 5 circRNAs, 385 miRNAs and 96 mRNAs. Furthermore, we predicted that miR-193b-3p exerts a significant effect on 14-3-3ζ, and was significantly associated with the Hippo signaling pathway in HNSCC. On the whole, these findings suggest that circRNA_036186 likely regulates 14-3-3ζ expression by functioning as a ceRNA in the development and progression of HNSCC.

A Rapid Screen for Host-Encoded miRNAs with Inhibitory Effects against Ebola Virus Using a Transcription- and Replication-Competent Virus-Like Particle System

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) may become efficient antiviral agents against the Ebola virus (EBOV) targeting viral genomic RNAs or transcripts. We previously conducted a genome-wide search for differentially expressed miRNAs during viral replication and transcription. In this study, we established a rapid screen for miRNAs with inhibitory effects against EBOV using a tetracistronic transcription- and replication-competent virus-like particle (trVLP) system. This system uses a minigenome comprising an EBOV leader region, luciferase reporter, VP40, GP, VP24, EBOV trailer region, and three noncoding regions from the EBOV genome and can be used to model the life cycle of EBOV under biosafety level (BSL) 2 conditions. Informatic analysis was performed to select up-regulated miRNAs targeting the coding regions of the minigenome with the highest binding energy to perform inhibitory effect screening. Among these miRNAs, miR-150-3p had the most significant inhibitory effect. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), Western blot, and double fluorescence reporter experiments demonstrated that miR-150-3p inhibited the reproduction of trVLPs via the regulation of GP and VP40 expression by directly targeting the coding regions of GP and VP40. This novel, rapid, and convenient screening method will efficiently facilitate the exploration of miRNAs against EBOV under BSL-2 conditions.

MiR-150-3p targets SP1 and suppresses the growth of glioma cells

Glioma has been considered as one of the most prevalent and common malignancy of the nervous system; however, the underlying mechanisms that are responsible for the occurrence and development of glioma still remain largely unknown. Amounting evidence highlights the critical regulatory function of miRNAs in carcinogenesis. Here, we showed that the expression of miR-150-3p was significantly decreased in glioma tissues and cell lines. Suppressed expression of miR-150-3p was associated with the lymph node metastasis of the glioma patients. Overexpression of miR-150-3p significantly inhibited the proliferation of glioma cells. Molecular study uncovered that the transcription factor specificity protein 1 (SP1) was identified as one of the targets of miR-150-3p Highly expressed miR-150-3p in glioma cells significantly decreased both the mRNA and protein levels of SP1. Consistently, the abundance of phosphatase and tension homolog deleted on chromosome ten (PTEN), a negative downstream target of SP1, was increased with the ectopic miR-150-3p Collectively, these results suggested that miR-150-3p suppressed the growth of glioma cells partially via regulating SP1 and possibly PTEN.