Identification of miR-508-3p and miR-509-3p that are associated with cell invasion and migration and involved in the apoptosis of renal cell carcinoma

Exosomes as novel tools for renal cell carcinoma therapy, diagnosis, and prognosis

Background

Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) stands as a formidable challenge within the field of oncology, despite considerable research endeavors. The advanced stages of this malignancy present formidable barriers to effective treatment and management.

Objective

This review aims to explore the potential of exosomes in addressing the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges associated with RCC. Specifically, it investigates the role of exosomes as biomarkers and therapeutic vehicles in the context of RCC management.

Methods

For this review article, a comprehensive literature search was conducted using databases such as PubMed, employing relevant keywords to identify research articles pertinent to the objectives of the review. Initially, 200 articles were identified, which underwent screening to remove duplicates and assess relevance based on titles and abstracts, followed by a detailed examination of full texts. From the selected articles, relevant data were extracted and synthesized to address the review's objectives. The conclusions were drawn based on a thorough analysis of the findings. The quality was ensured through independent review and resolution of discrepancies among multiple reviewers.

Results

Exosomes demonstrate potential as diagnostic tools for early detection, prognosis, and treatment monitoring in RCC. Their ability to deliver various therapeutic agents, such as small interfering RNAs, lncRNAs, chemotherapeutic drugs, and immune-stimulating agents, allows for a personalized approach to RCC management. By leveraging exosome-based technologies, precision and efficacy in treatment strategies can be significantly enhanced.

Conclusion

Despite the promising advancements enabled by exosomes in the management of RCC, further research is necessary to refine exosome-based technologies and validate their efficacy, safety, and long-term benefits through rigorous clinical trials. Embracing exosomes as integral components of RCC diagnosis and treatment represents a significant step towards improving patient outcomes and addressing the persistent challenges posed by this malignancy in the field of oncology.

Use of Droplet Digital Polymerase Chain Reaction to Identify Biomarkers for Differentiation of Benign and Malignant Renal Masses

Several microRNAs (miRNAs) have been identified as cell-free biomarkers for detecting renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) is a unique technology for nucleic acid quantification. It has the potential for superior precision, reproducibility, and diagnostic performance in identifying circulating miRNA biomarkers compared to conventional quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). This study aims to evaluate the performance of ddPCR compared to qRT- PCR in identifying miRNA biomarkers that differentiate malignant from benign renal masses. Potential biomarkers of RCC were identified from a literature review. RNA was extracted from the plasma of 56 patients. All the samples underwent analysis via ddPCR as well as qRT-PCR, and expression levels were recorded for the following miRNAs: miR-93, -144, -210, -221, and -222. Tumors were grouped into low-grade ccRCC, high-grade ccRCC, papillary RCC, and benign masses (primarily angiomyolipoma). The miRNA miR-210 (p = 0.034) and the combination of miRs-210 and miR-222 (p = 0.003) were expressed at significantly higher rates among those with RCC than those with benign masses, as measured by ddPCR. Using the combination of miR-210 and miR-222, ddPCR identified significant differences between the subgroups: papillary RCC versus benign (p = 0.03), low-grade ccRCC versus benign (p = 0.026), and high-grade ccRCC versus benign (p = 0.002). The only significant difference between these subgroups using qRT-PCR was between high-grade ccRCC and benign (p = 0.045). All the AUCs were significant when comparing each RCC subgroup with benign for both PCR technologies. Using a combination of miR-210 and miR-222, ddPCR identified significant differences between benign and malignant renal masses that were not identified as significant by conventional qRT-PCR.

Epigenetic reprogramming in cancer: From diagnosis to treatment

Disruption of the epigenetic program of gene expression is a hallmark of cancer that initiates and propagates tumorigenesis. Altered DNA methylation, histone modifications and ncRNAs expression are a feature of cancer cells. The dynamic epigenetic changes during oncogenic transformation are related to tumor heterogeneity, unlimited self-renewal and multi-lineage differentiation. This stem cell-like state or the aberrant reprogramming of cancer stem cells is the major challenge in treatment and drug resistance. Given the reversible nature of epigenetic modifications, the ability to restore the cancer epigenome through the inhibition of the epigenetic modifiers is a promising therapy for cancer treatment, either as a monotherapy or in combination with other anticancer therapies, including immunotherapies. Herein, we highlighted the main epigenetic alterations, their potential as a biomarker for early diagnosis and the epigenetic therapies approved for cancer treatment.

Circ_FOXP1 promotes the growth and survival of high glucose-treated human trophoblast cells through the regulation of miR-508-3p/SMAD family member 2 pathway

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a health risk for pregnant women and infants. Emerging evidence suggests that the deregulation of circular RNAs (circRNAs) is associated with the progression of this disorder. The objective of this study was to investigate the role of circ_FOXP1 in GDM. Cell models of GDM were established by treating human trophoblast cells with high glucose (HG). The expression of circ_FOXP1, miR-508-3p and SMAD family member 2 (SMAD2) mRNA was detected by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). Cell proliferation was assessed by EdU assay and MTT assay, and cell cycle and cell apoptosis were determined by flow cytometry assay. The protein levels of proliferation- and apoptosis-related markers and SMAD2 were measured by western blot. The relationship between miR-508-3p and circ_FOXP1 or SMAD2 was validated by dual-luciferase reporter assay or pull-down assay. The expression of circ_FOXP1 was downregulated in HG-treated HTR-8/SVneo cells. Circ_FOXP1 overexpression promoted HG-inhibited HTR-8/SVneo cell proliferation and suppressed HG-induced HTR-8/SVneo cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Circ_FOXP1 positively regulated the expression of SMAD2 by targeting miR-508-3p. MiR-508-3p was overexpressed in HG-treated HTR-8/SVneo cells, and its overexpression reversed the effects of circ_FOXP1 overexpression. MiR-508-3p inhibition also alleviated HG-induced HTR-8/SVneo cell injuries, while the knockdown of SMAD2 abolished these effects. Collectively, circ_FOXP1 promotes the growth and survival of HG-treated human trophoblast cells through the miR-508-3p/SMAD2 pathway, hinting that circ_FOXP1 was involved in GDM progression.

miRNAs Copy Number Variations Repertoire as Hallmark Indicator of Cancer Species Predisposition

Aging is one of the hallmarks of multiple human diseases, including cancer. We hypothesized that variations in the number of copies (CNVs) of specific genes may protect some long-living organisms theoretically more susceptible to tumorigenesis from the onset of cancer. Based on the statistical comparison of gene copy numbers within the genomes of both cancer-prone and -resistant species, we identified novel gene targets linked to tumor predisposition, such as CD52, SAT1 and SUMO. Moreover, considering their genome-wide copy number landscape, we discovered that microRNAs (miRNAs) are among the most significant gene families enriched for cancer progression and predisposition. Through bioinformatics analyses, we identified several alterations in miRNAs copy number patterns, involving miR-221, miR-222, miR-21, miR-372, miR-30b, miR-30d and miR-31, among others. Therefore, our analyses provide the first evidence that an altered miRNAs copy number signature can statistically discriminate species more susceptible to cancer from those that are tumor resistant, paving the way for further investigations.

LiKidMiRs: A ddPCR-Based Panel of 4 Circulating miRNAs for Detection of Renal Cell Carcinoma

Simple Summary

Early detection of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) significantly increases the likelihood of curative treatment, avoiding the need of adjuvant therapies, associated side effects and comorbidities. Thus, we aimed to discover circulating microRNAs that might aid in early, minimally invasive, RCC detection/diagnosis.

Abstract

Background: Decreased renal cell cancer-related mortality is an important societal goal, embodied by efforts to develop effective biomarkers enabling early detection and increasing the likelihood of curative treatment. Herein, we sought to develop a new biomarker for early and minimally invasive detection of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) based on a microRNA panel assessed by ddPCR. Methods: Plasma samples from patients with RCC (n = 124) or oncocytomas (n = 15), and 64 healthy donors, were selected. Hsa-miR-21-5p, hsa-miR-126-3p, hsa-miR-155-5p and hsa-miR-200b-3p levels were evaluated using a ddPCR protocol. Results: RCC patients disclosed significantly higher circulating levels of hsa-miR-155-5p compared to healthy donors, whereas the opposite was observed for hsa-miR-21-5p levels. Furthermore, hsa-miR-21-5p and hsa-miR-155-5p panels detected RCC with high sensitivity (82.66%) and accuracy (71.89%). The hsa-miR-126-3p/hsa-miR-200b-3p panel identified the most common RCC subtype (clear cell, ccRCC) with 74.78% sensitivity. Conclusion: Variable combinations of plasma miR levels assessed by ddPCR enable accurate detection of RCC in general, and of ccRCC. These findings, if confirmed in larger studies, provide evidence for a novel ancillary tool which might aid in early detection of RCC.

LncRNA RP5-857K21.7 inhibits PDGF-BB-induced proliferation and migration of airway smooth muscle cells through the miR-508-3p/PI3K/AKT/mTOR axis

The continuous increase in the prevalence of asthma poses a threat to human health. Despites numerous researches, the understanding of asthma development still remain elusive, hindering the development of effective treatment. Here, we explored the role of lncRNA RP5-857K21.7 (RP5-857K21.7) in the development of asthma and its potential molecular mechanism of regulation. Airway smooth muscle cells (ASMCs) were isolated and cultured after which some of the cells were induced with PDGF-BB to build an asthma cell model, and then, qRT-PCR analysis was used to measure the expression level of RP5-857K21.7 in the cell model. Result shows that the RP5-857K21.7 is significantly downregulated in PDGF-BB-induced ASMCs cells. Through CCK-8, transwell, and flow cytometry assay, we examined the functional impact of RP5-857K21.7 on the proliferation, migration, and apoptosis of the ASMCs, respectively, and found that the overexpression of RP5-857K21.7 markedly inhibit PDGF-BB-induced ASMCs cell proliferation, migration and induce apoptosis. Bioinformatics analysis predicted that the RP5-857K21.7 could sponge miR-508-3p and result was validated through a dual-luciferase reporter assay, biotinylated RNA pull-down assay, and RIP-qRT-PCR analysis. Mechanistically, RP5-857K21.7 regulates the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway by endogenously sponging miR-508-3p to inhibit PDGF-BB-induced ASMCs cell proliferation, migration and induce apoptosis. The current research suggests that the RP5-857K21.7 and its associated molecular pathway (miR-508-3p/PI3K/AKT/mTOR axis) might be a useful therapeutic target for the treatment of asthma disease.

Using microRNAs as molecular biomarkers for the evaluation of male infertility

Infertility is a multiplex disorder in the reproductive system, and men are responsible for more than half of the cases. Nowadays, semen analysis has been considered the critical assessment test to diagnose infertile men; however, it has limitations so that the cause behind infertility in 40% of infertile men is unrevealed. Weaknesses of semen assessment indicate a global need for novel and better diagnostic tools and biomarkers. MicroRNAs are short (about 18-22 nucleotide length) non-coding RNAs that control most (>60%) of our protein-coding genes post-transcriptionally. These molecules are aberrant in the body fluids, and abnormal alterations in their expression level can signify a specific disease such as infertility. Therefore, microRNAs can be novel candidate biomarkers that can diagnose different types of male infertility, including azoospermia, oligozoospermia, asthenozoospermia and teratozoospermia. This narrative review aimed to collect and sum up new papers published about the significant role of microRNAs in different male infertility categories.

Unveiling the World of Circulating and Exosomal microRNAs in Renal Cell Carcinoma

Simple Summary

Liquid biopsies have emerged as a new tool for early diagnosis. In renal cell carcinoma, this need is also evident and may represent an improvement in disease management. Hence, in this review we discuss the most updated advances in the assessment of miRNAs in liquid biopsies. Moreover, we explore the potential of circulating or exosome miRNAs in renal cell carcinoma to overcome the tissue biopsies limitations.

Abstract

Renal cell carcinoma is the third most common urological cancer. Despite recent advances, late diagnosis and poor prognosis of advanced-stage disease remain a major problem, entailing the need for novel early diagnosis tools. Liquid biopsies represent a promising minimally invasive clinical tool, providing real-time feedback of tumor behavior and biological potential, addressing its clonal evolution and representing its heterogeneity. In particular, the study of circulating microRNAs and exosomal microRNAs in liquid biopsies experienced an exponential increase in recent years, considering the potential clinical utility and available technology that facilitates implementation. Herein, we provide a systematic review on the applicability of these biomarkers in the context of renal cell carcinoma. Issues such as additional benefit from extracting microRNAs transported in extracellular vesicles, use for subtyping and representation of different histological types, correlation with tumor burden, and prediction of patient outcome are also addressed. Despite the need for more conclusive research, available data indicate that exosomal microRNAs represent a robust minimally invasive biomarker for renal cell carcinoma. Thus, innovative research on microRNAs and novel detection techniques are likely to provide clinically relevant biomarkers, overcome current clinical challenges, and improve patient management.

Epigenetic Biomarkers of Renal Cell Carcinoma for Liquid Biopsy Tests

Renal cell carcinomas (RCC) account for 2–3% of the global cancer burden and are characterized by the highest mortality rate among all genitourinary cancers. However, excluding conventional imagining approaches, there are no reliable diagnostic and prognostic tools available for clinical use at present. Liquid biopsies, such as urine, serum, and plasma, contain a significant amount of tumor-derived nucleic acids, which may serve as non-invasive biomarkers that are particularly useful for early cancer detection, follow-up, and personalization of treatment. Changes in epigenetic phenomena, such as DNA methylation level, expression of microRNAs (miRNAs), and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), are observed early during cancer development and are easily detectable in biofluids when morphological changes are still undetermined by conventional diagnostic tools. Here, we reviewed recent advances made in the development of liquid biopsy-derived DNA methylation-, miRNAs- and lncRNAs-based biomarkers for RCC, with an emphasis on the performance characteristics. In the last two decades, a mass of circulating epigenetic biomarkers of RCC were suggested, however, most of the studies done thus far analyzed biomarkers selected from the literature, used relatively miniature, local, and heterogeneous cohorts, and suffered from a lack of sufficient validations. In summary, for improved translation into the clinical setting, there is considerable demand for the validation of the existing pool of RCC biomarkers and the discovery of novel ones with better performance and clinical utility.

Circulating RNA in Kidney Cancer: What We Know and What We Still Suppose

Renal cancer represents the 7th most common tumor worldwide, affecting 400,000 people annually. This malignancy, which is the third most frequent cancer among urological diseases, displays a completely different prognosis if the tumor is detected in the early stages or advance phases. Unfortunately, more than 50% of renal cancers are discovered incidentally, with a consistent percentage of cases where the tumor remains clinically silent till the metastatic process is established. In day-to-day clinical practice, no available predictive biomarkers exist, and the existent imaging diagnostic techniques harbor several gaps in terms of diagnosis and prognosis. In the last decade, many efforts have been reported to detect new predictive molecular biomarkers using liquid biopsies, which are less invasive in comparison to renal biopsy. However, until now, there has been no clear evidence that a liquid biopsy biomarker could be relevant to the creation of a precise and tailored medical management in these oncological patients, even though circulating RNA biomarkers remain among the most promising. Given the idea that liquid biopsies will play a future key role in the management of these patients, in the present review, we summarize the current state of circulating RNA (miRNA, lncRNAs, and circRNAs) as possible biomarkers of renal cancer presence and aggressiveness in patients.

ChrXq27.3 miRNA cluster functions in cancer development

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate the expression of their target genes post-transcriptionally; thus, they are deeply involved in fundamental biological processes. miRNA clusters contain two or more miRNA-encoding genes, and these miRNAs are usually coexpressed due to common expression mechanisms. Therefore, miRNA clusters are effective modulators of biological pathways by the members coordinately regulating their multiple target genes, and an miRNA cluster located on the X chromosome q27.3 region has received much attention in cancer research recently. In this review, we discuss the novel findings of the chrXq27.3 miRNA cluster in various types of cancer.

The chrXq27.3 miRNA cluster contains 30 mature miRNAs synthesized from 22 miRNA-encoding genes in an ~ 1.3-Mb region. The expressions of these miRNAs are usually negligible in many normal tissues, with the male reproductive system being an exception. In cancer tissues, each miRNA is dysregulated, compared with in adjacent normal tissues. The miRNA-encoding genes are not uniformly distributed in the region, and they are further divided into two groups (the miR-506-514 and miR-888-892 groups) according to their location on the genome. Most of the miRNAs in the former group are tumor-suppressive miRNAs that are further downregulated in various cancers compared with normal tissues. miR-506-3p in particular is the most well-known miRNA in this cluster, and it has various tumor-suppressive functions associated with the epithelial–mesenchymal transition, proliferation, and drug resistance. Moreover, other miRNAs, such as miR-508-3p and miR-509-3p, have similar tumor-suppressive effects. Hence, the expression of these miRNAs is clinically favorable as prognostic factors in various cancers. However, the functions of the latter group are less understood. In the latter group, miR-888-5p displays oncogenic functions, whereas miR-892b is tumor suppressive. Therefore, the functions of the miR-888–892 group are considered to be cell type- or tissue-specific.

In conclusion, the chrXq27.3 miRNA cluster is a critical regulator of cancer progression, and the miRNAs themselves, their regulatory mechanisms, and their target genes might be promising therapeutic targets.

Identification of HCG18 and MCM3AP-AS1 That Associate With Bone Metastasis, Poor Prognosis and Increased Abundance of M2 Macrophage Infiltration in Prostate Cancer

Background:

Bone metastasis is a leading cause of the high mortality rate of prostate cancer (PCa), but curative strategies remain lacking. Recent studies suggest long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) may be potential targets to develop drugs. However, PCa bone metastasis-specifically-related lncRNAs were rarely reported. This study aimed to identify crucial lncRNAs and reveal their function mechanisms.

Methods:

GSE32269 and GSE26964 microarray datasets, downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, were used to analyze differentially expressed genes (DEGs)/lncRNAs (DELs) and miRNAs (DEMs), respectively. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis was performed to screen PCa bone metastasis-associated modules. The co-expression and competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) networks were constructed to identify hub lncRNAs. Univariate Cox regression analysis was conducted to determine their prognostic values. The correlation of lncRNAs with immune infiltrating cells was analyzed by using Tumor IMmune Estimation Resource. Therapeutic drugs were predicted by querying the Connectivity Map (CMap) and the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD).

Results:

A total of 18 DELs, 2,614 DEGs and 86 DEMs were screened between bone metastatic and primary PCa samples. Four modules enriched by DEGs were shown to be bone metastasis-associated. LncRNA HCG18 and MCM3AP-AS1 were identified to be important because they existed in both of the co-expression and ceRNA networks (forming the relationship pairs: HCG18/MCM3AP-AS1-KNTC1, MCM3AP-AS1-hsa-miR-508-3p-DTL and HCG18/MCM3AP-AS1-hsa-miR-127-3p-CDKN3). All the genes in these interaction pairs were significantly associated with overall survival of PCa patients. Also, HCG18, MCM3AP-AS1 and their target mRNAs were positively correlated with various tumor-infiltrated immune cells, especially increased M2 macrophages. Valproic acid and trichostatin A may be effective to treat PCa bone metastasis by targeting HCG18 and MCM3AP-AS1.

Conclusion:

HCG18 and MCM3AP-AS1 that regulate M2 macrophage infiltration may be important targets to treat PCa bone metastasis and improve prognosis.

Expression of the chrXq27.3 miRNA cluster in recurrent ovarian clear cell carcinoma and its impact on cisplatin resistance

Ovarian clear cell carcinoma (OCCC) is a histological subtype of epithelial ovarian cancer and exhibits dismal prognosis due to chemoresistance. Moreover, only few effective therapeutic options exist for patients with recurrent OCCC, and an understanding of its molecular characteristics is essential for the development of novel therapeutic approaches. In the present study, we investigated unique MicroRNAs (miRNA) profiles in recurrent/metastatic OCCC and the role of miRNAs in cisplatin resistance. Comprehensive miRNA sequencing revealed that expression of several miRNAs, including miR-508-3p, miR-509-3p, miR-509-3-5p, and miR-514a-3p was remarkably less in recurrent cancer tissues when compared with that in paired primary cancer tissues. These miRNAs are located in the chrXq27.3 region on the genome. Moreover, its expression was negative in omental metastases in two patients with advanced OCCC. In vitro analyses revealed that overexpression of miR-509-3p and miR-509-3-5p reversed cisplatin resistance and yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) was partially responsible for the resistance. Immunohistochemistry revealed that YAP1 expression was inversely correlated with the chrXq27.3 miRNA cluster expression. In conclusion, these findings suggest that alteration of the chrXq27.3 miRNA cluster could play a critical role in chemoresistance and miRNAs in the cluster and their target genes can be potential therapeutic targets.

Identification of genes and miRNAs in paclitaxel treatment for breast cancer

AIM

Paclitaxel is a microtubule-stabilizing drug that has therapeutic effect on breast cancer. However, the molecular mechanism of paclitaxel on breast cancer has not been elucidated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Microarray data of GSE114403, including 50 pretreatment and 50 posttreatment samples, were downloaded from public database. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between pretreatment and posttreatment were identified, followed by functional enrichment analysis. Then, protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and transcription factor (TF)-miRNA-mRNA network were constructed. Finally, the survival analysis of hub genes was performed.

RESULTS

A total of 107 DEGs were screened from pretreatment versus posttreatment. Genes were significantly enriched in GO terms such as inflammatory response, and pathways like cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction pathway. CXCL2, PTGS2, and ATF3 were considered as hub genes in PPI network. TFs such as FOXA2, NFE2L2, as well as miRNAs like has-miR-508-3p and has-miR-584 also played role in the paclitaxel treatment. Additionally, survival analysis revealed that breast cancer patients with high expression level of CXCL2, PTGS2, and ATF3 had longer survival time.

CONCLUSION

In summary, we demonstrated that CXCL2, PTGS2, and ATF3 might be diagnostic and therapeutic molecular biomarkers for breast cancer. These findings might provide further insights into the pathophysiology of breast cancer, as well as enhance our understanding of the anticancer effects of paclitaxel.

Systematic Review and STARD Scoring of Renal Cell Carcinoma Circulating Diagnostic Biomarker Manuscripts

Background

No validated molecular biomarkers exist to help guide diagnosis of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients. We seek to evaluate the quality of published RCC circulating diagnostic biomarker manuscripts using the Standards for Reporting of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (STARD) guidelines.

Methods

The phrase “(renal cell carcinoma OR renal cancer OR kidney cancer OR kidney carcinoma) AND circulating AND (biomarkers OR cell free DNA OR tumor DNA OR methylated cell free DNA OR methylated tumor DNA)” was searched in Embase, MEDLINE, and PubMed in March 2018. Relevant manuscripts were scored using 41 STARD subcriteria for a maximal score of 26 points. All tests of statistical significance were 2 sided.

Results

The search identified 535 publications: 27 manuscripts of primary research were analyzed. The median STARD score was 11.5 (range = 7-16.75). All manuscripts had appropriate abstracts, introductions, and distribution of alternative diagnoses. None of the manuscripts stated how indeterminant data were handled or if adverse events occurred from performing the index test or reference standard. Statistically significantly higher STARD scores were present in manuscripts reporting receiver operator characteristic curves (P < .001), larger sample sizes (P = .007), and after release of the original STARD statement (P = .005).

Conclusions

Most RCC circulating diagnostic biomarker manuscripts poorly adhere to the STARD guidelines. Future studies adhering to STARD guidelines may address this unmet need.

Circulating Non-coding RNAs in Renal Cell Carcinoma-Pathogenesis and Potential Implications as Clinical Biomarkers

Liquid biopsy-the determination of circulating cells, proteins, DNA or RNA from biofluids through a "less invasive" approach-has emerged as a novel approach in all cancer entities. Circulating non-(protein) coding RNAs including microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and YRNAs can be passively released by tissue or cell damage or actively secreted as cell-free circulating RNAs, bound to lipoproteins or carried by exosomes. In renal cell carcinoma (RCC), a growing body of evidence suggests circulating non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) such as miRNAs, lncRNAs, and YRNAs as promising and easily accessible blood-based biomarkers for the early diagnosis of RCC as well as for the prediction of prognosis and treatment response. In addition, circulating ncRNAs could also play a role in RCC pathogenesis and progression. This review gives an overview over the current study landscape of circulating ncRNAs and their involvement in RCC pathogenesis as well as their potential utility as future biomarkers in RCC diagnosis and treatment.

RASA1 inhibits the progression of renal cell carcinoma by decreasing the expression of miR-223-3p and promoting the expression of FBXW7

RAS p21 protein activator 1 (RASA1), also known as p120-RasGAP, is a RasGAP protein that functions as a signaling scaffold protein, regulating pivotal signal cascades. However, its biological mechanism in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) remains unknown. In the present study, RASA1, F-box/WD repeat-containing protein 7 (FBXW7), and miR-223-3p expression were assessed via quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blot. Then, the targeted correlations of miR-223-3p with FBXW7 and RASA1 were verified via a dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. CCK-8, flow cytometry, and Transwell assays were implemented independently to explore the impact of RASA1 on cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and cell cycle progression. Finally, the influence of RASA1 on tumor formation in RCC was assessed in vivo through the analysis of tumor growth in nude mice. Results showed that FBXW7 and RASA1 expression were decreased in RCC tissues and cell lines, while miR-223-3p was expressed at a higher level. Additionally, FBXW7 and RASA1 inhibited cell proliferation but facilitated the population of RCC cells in the G0/G1 phase. Altogether, RASA1 may play a key role in the progression of RCC by decreasing miR-223-3p and subsequently increasing FBXW7 expression.

CircHIPK3 Promotes Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma (ccRCC) Cells Proliferation and Metastasis via Altering of miR-508-3p/CXCL13 Signal

Introduction

Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that circular RNAs (circRNAs) play a key role in the tumorigenesis of various types of cancers, including clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC).

Materials and Methods

Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to detect the expression of circRNA homeodomain interacting protein kinase 3 (circHIPK3) and microRNAs (miRNAs), including miR-508-3p. The clinical measurement of circHIPK3 was evaluated by Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and receiver operating characteristic analysis. Cell Counting Kit-8 and Transwell chamber assays were performed to determine the changes in the proliferative and metastatic ability of A498 and 786-O cells. C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 13 (CXCL13) protein expression was detected by Western blot analysis. The targeted binding effect between miR-508-3p and circHIPK3 or CXCL13 was confirmed by constructed luciferase and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays, respectively. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) assay was used to measure the subcellular localization of circHIPK3 and miR-508-3p.

Results

It was found that circHIPK3 was markedly upregulated in ccRCC tissue and cell lines, and circHIPK3-upregulation was closely correlated with poor clinicopathological features in patients with ccRCC. It was found that both miR-508-3p and circHIPK3 were localized in the cytoplasm of ccRCC cells. The up- and downregulation of circHIPK3 positively regulated ccRCC cell proliferation and metastasis, and this regulatory effect was reversed by miR-508-3p. Through luciferase and RIP assays, it was confirmed that circHIPK3 could interacted with miR-508-3p. Furthermore, it was revealed that CXCL13, which was negatively correlated with miR-508-3p, was upregulated in ccRCC. It was also shown that CXCL13 was a downstream target of miR-508-3p. miR-508-3p suppressed ccRCC cell proliferation and metastasis by targeting CXCL13. Lastly, it was demonstrated that circHIPK3 promoted CXCL13 to facilitate ccRCC cell proliferation and metastasis by decoying miR-508-3p.

Conclusion

In brief, the results of the present study showed that circHIPK3 promoted ccRCC cell proliferation and metastasis by altering miR-5083p/CXCL13 signaling. The present findings might provide a novel target for the molecular treatment of ccRCC.

miR‑508‑3p suppresses the development of ovarian carcinoma by targeting CCNA2 and MMP7

Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecological tumor, and the 5‑year survival rate is only ~40%. The poor survival rate is due to cancer diagnosis at an advanced stage, when the tumor has metastasized. A better understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of tumor growth and metastasis is needed to improve patient prognosis. MicroRNAs (miRs) regulate carcinogenesis and development of cancers. However, the role of miR‑508‑3p in ovarian cancer remains largely unknown. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the possible functions of miR‑508‑3p in the modulation of development of ovarian cancer. The results of the present study demonstrated that miR‑508‑3p mimics inhibited ovarian cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Reporter gene assay results demonstrated that miR‑508‑3p suppressed cancer cell proliferation by directly targeting the 3'‑untranslated region (UTR) of cyclin A2 (CCNA2) and suppressed migration and invasion by directly targeting the 3'‑UTR of matrix metalloproteinase 7 (MMP7). In addition, high CCNA2 and MMP7 expression levels were associated with low miR‑508‑3p expression in ovarian cancer tissues. Furthermore, miR‑508‑3p and CCNA2 were independent predictors for overall survival in patients with ovarian cancer. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrated that miR‑508‑3p suppressed ovarian cancer development by directly targeting CCNA2 and MMP7. The results of this study suggested the potential value of miR‑508‑3p and CCNA2 as prognostic indicators and therapeutics for ovarian cancer.

Changes in microRNA expression associated with metastasis and survival in patients with uveal melanoma

Uveal melanoma (UM) is a major intraocular cancer that is molecularly distinct from cutaneous melanoma. Approximately half of patients with UM eventually develop metastasis. The prognosis of metastatic UM is poor, with a median overall survival (OS) of less than a year. In this study, we sought to identify microRNAs (miRNAs) associated with metastasis and OS in UM. We analyzed the miRNA expression and clinical outcomes data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset for UM. Differential expression analyses were conducted for each miRNA with respect ever-development of metastasis. Multiple survival analyses were done, using the Cox proportional hazards model, to evaluate interactions between miRNA expression, metastasis, and OS. A total of 22 miRNAs (3 upregulated and 19 downregulated) were differentially expressed between patients with vs. without metastatic UM. These 22 miRNAs could be grouped into four clusters based on similarities in expression patterns. Of the 22 miRNAs differentially expressed with respect to metastasis, 21 were significantly associated with OS. The expression of multiple miRNAs was significantly associated with metastasis and overall survival in patients with UM. Further investigation of these miRNAs as biomarkers and/or therapeutic targets is warranted in the push to improve outcomes for patients with metastatic UM.

Identification of dysregulated serum miR-508-3p and miR-885-5p as potential diagnostic biomarkers of clear cell renal carcinoma

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), the most common subtype, accounts for approximately 80% of all RCC cases. ccRCC patients typically present with an advanced stage at the time of diagnosis resulting in a poor patient prognosis. The present study aimed to identify novel potential microRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) in peripheral blood as biomarkers for the detection of ccRCC. Candidate miRNAs were selected through integrated analysis of the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, and from clinical samples. The expression levels of miRNAs were quantified using reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to explore the diagnostic values of the miRNAs. Bioinformatic analysis of candidate miRNAs was conducted by using the STRING database. After an integrated analysis of the GEO and TCGA databases, four miRNAs were found to be consistently dysregulated in ccRCC tissues. Then, their expression levels in serum and diagnostic utilities were further explored. We discovered that serum miR‑508‑3p and miR‑885‑5p were significantly dysregulated in ccRCC patients with marked diagnostic values. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) of serum miR‑508‑3p and miR‑885‑5p was 0.80 (95% CI, 0.73‑0.87) and 0.87 (95% CI, 0.79‑0.95), respectively. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that both miR‑508‑3p and miR‑885‑5p were closely associated with cellular metabolic processes. In conclusion, serum miR‑508‑3p and miR‑885‑5p are novel potential biomarkers for the diagnosis of ccRCC.

The challenges of primary biliary cholangitis: What is new and what needs to be done

Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC) is an uncommon, chronic, cholangiopathy of autoimmune origin and unknown etiology characterized by positive anti-mitochondrial autoantibodies (AMA), female preponderance and progression to cirrhosis if left untreated. The diagnosis is based on AMA- or PBC-specific anti-nuclear antibody (ANA)-positivity in the presence of a cholestatic biochemical profile, histologic confirmation being mandatory only in seronegative cases. First-line treatment is ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), which is effective in preventing disease progression in about two thirds of the patients. The only approved second-line treatment is obeticholic acid. This article summarizes the most relevant conclusions of a meeting held in Lugano, Switzerland, from September 23rd-25th 2018, gathering basic and clinical scientists with various background from around the world to discuss the latest advances in PBC research. The meeting was dedicated to Ian Mackay, pioneer in the field of autoimmune liver diseases. The role of liver histology needs to be reconsidered: liver pathology consistent with PBC in AMA-positive individuals without biochemical cholestasis is increasingly reported, raising the question as to whether biochemical cholestasis is a reliable disease marker for both clinical practice and trials. The urgent need for new biomarkers, including more accurate markers of cholestasis, was also widely discussed during the meeting. Moreover, new insights in interactions of bile acids with biliary epithelia in PBC provide solid evidence of a role for impaired epithelial protection against potentially toxic hydrophobic bile acids, raising the fundamental question as to whether this bile acid-induced epithelial damage is the cause or the consequence of the autoimmune attack to the biliary epithelium. Strategies are needed to identify difficult-to-treat patients at an early disease stage, when new therapeutic approaches targeting immunologic pathways, in addition to bile acid-based therapies, may be effective. In conclusion, using interdisciplinary approaches, groundbreaking advances can be expected before long in respect to our understanding of the etiopathogenesis of PBC, with the ultimate aim of improving its treatment.

MicroRNA expression profile is altered in the upper airway skeletal muscle tissue of patients with obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome

Objective

To investigate the involvement of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the pathogenesis of obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS).

Methods

In this study, we investigated miRNA profiles in the upper airway (UA) skeletal muscles of four patients with OSAHS and four matched controls using the miRCURY miRNA array. In another cohort of 12 OSAHS cases and 7 controls, the mRNA expression levels of interleukin (IL)-6 and Lin-28 homolog A (Lin28A), targets of the downregulated let-7 family members, were measured by real-time quantitative-PCR. The potential targets of the miRNAs were predicted by miRNA target prediction databases miRanda, Microcosm, and Targetscan.

Results

The array identified 370 differentially expressed miRNAs, of which 181 were upregulated and 189 were downregulated in OSAHS patients (based on a fold-change >2.0 and p < 0.05). Upregulation of IL-6 and Lin28A was validated by quantitative reverse transcription PCR. The 612 targets predicted by all three algorithms were subjected to gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses. The results revealed perturbations in signaling pathways and cellular functions.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated profoundly altered miRNA expression profiles in upper airway muscular tissues of patients with OSAHS, which might contribute to the formation and development of OSAHS.

Glypican 6 is a putative biomarker for metastatic progression of cutaneous melanoma

Due to the poor prognosis of advanced metastatic melanoma, it is crucial to find early biomarkers that help identify which melanomas will metastasize. By comparing the gene expression data from primary and cutaneous melanoma samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), we identified GPC6 among a set of genes whose expression levels can distinguish between primary melanoma and regional cutaneous/subcutaneous metastases. Glypicans are thought to play a role in tumor growth by regulating the signaling pathways of Wnt, Hedgehogs, fibroblast growth factors (FGFs), and bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). We showed that GPC6 expression was up-regulated in a melanoma cell line compared to normal melanocytes and in metastatic melanoma compared to primary melanoma. Furthermore, GPC6 expression was positively correlated with genes largely involved in cell adhesion and migration in both melanoma samples and in RNA-seq samples from other TCGA tumors. Our results suggest that GPC6 may play a role in tumor metastatic progression. In TCGA melanoma samples, we also showed that GPC6 expression was negatively correlated with miR-509-3p, which has previously been shown to function as a tumor suppressor in various cancer cell lines. We overexpressed miR-509-3p in A375 melanoma cells and showed that GPC6 expression was significantly suppressed. This result suggested that GPC6 was a putative target of miR-509-3p in melanoma. Together, our findings identified GPC6 as an early biomarker for melanoma metastatic progression, one that can be regulated by miR-509-3p.

MicroRNAs as markers to monitor endothelin-1 signalling and potential treatment in renal disease: Carcinoma - proteinuric damage - toxicity

This review highlights new developments in miRNA as diagnostic and surveillance tools in diseases damaging the renal proximal tubule mediated by endothelin in the field of renal carcinoma, proteinuric kidney disease and tubulotoxicity. A new mechanism in the miRNA regulation of proteins leads to the binding of the miRNA directly to the DNA with premature transcriptional termination and hence the formation of truncated protein isoforms (Mxi2, Vim3). These isoforms are mediated through miRNA15a or miRNA 498, respectively. ET-1 can activate a cytoplasmic complex consisting of NF-κB p65, MAPK p38α, and PKCα. Consequently, PKCα does not transmigrate into the nucleus, which leads to the loss of suppression of a primiRNA15a, maturation of this miRNA in the cytoplasm, tubular secretion and detectability in the urine. This mechanism has been shown in renal cell carcinoma and in proteinuric disease as a biomarker for the activation of the signalling pathway. Similarly, ET-1 induced miRNA 498 transmigrates into the nucleus to form the truncated protein Vim3, which is a biomarker for the benign renal cell tumour, oncocytoma. In tubulotoxicity, ET-1 induced miRNa133a down-regulating multiple-drug-resistant related protein-2, relevant for proteinuric and cisplatin/cyclosporine A toxicity. Current advantages and limitations of miRNAs as urinary biomarkers are discussed.

MicroRNA-508 is downregulated in clear cell renal cell carcinoma and targets ZEB1 to suppress cell proliferation and invasion

Recent studies have identified several microRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) that are dysregulated in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), and their dysregulation may serve important roles in the occurrence and development of ccRCC. Therefore, understanding the expression pattern and functional roles of miRNAs in ccRCC may facilitate the identification of novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of ccRCC. In the current study, reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to determine miR-508 expression levels in ccRCC tissue samples and cell lines. The cell counting kit-8 and in vitro Transwell invasion assays were used to examine the effects of miR-508 overexpression on ccRCC cell proliferation and invasion, respectively. In addition, bioinformatics analysis and dual-luciferase reporter gene assays were used to investigate the underlying mechanism of miR-508 in ccRCC cells. Furthermore, the regulatory role of miR-508 on zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) mRNA and protein expression in ccRCC cells was investigated using RT-qPCR and western blot analysis, respectively. Additionally, the association between miR-508 and ZEB1 expression in ccRCC tissue samples was examined. Rescue experiments were performed to determine whether the tumor suppressive effects of miR-508 may be mediated by ZEB1 in ccRCC cells. The results of the current study demonstrated that miR-508 expression was significantly downregulated in ccRCC tissue samples and cell lines. In addition, miR-508 overexpression significantly decreased the proliferation and invasion of ccRCC cells. ZEB1 was identified as a direct target gene of miR-508 in ccRCC cells and the relative expression level of ZEB1 mRNA was significantly increased in ccRCC tissue samples. Furthermore, a negative correlation between miR-508 and ZEB1 expression was identified in ccRCC tissues. ZEB1 knockdown exhibited a functional role similar to miR-508 overexpression in ccRCC cells, and restoration of ZEB1 expression significantly reversed the inhibitory effects of miR-508 on the malignant phenotype of ccRCC cells. Taken together, the results of the current study demonstrated that miR-508 may serve a tumor suppressive role in ccRCC via direct targeting of ZEB1. MiR-508 may present a novel and efficient therapeutic target for the treatment of patients with ccRCC.

Identification of differentially expressed miRNAs in early-stage cervical cancer with lymph node metastasis across The Cancer Genome Atlas datasets

Background and aim

Previous studies have suggested that lymph node metastasis (LNM) in early-stage cervical cancer (CESC) may affect the prognosis of patients and the outcomes of subsequent adjuvant therapy. However, research focused on miRNA expression in early-stage CESC patients with LNM remains limited. Therefore, it is necessary to identify prognostic miRNAs and determine their molecular mechanisms.

Methods

We evaluated the differentially expressed genes in early-stage CESC patients with LNM compared to patients without LNM and evaluated the prognostic significance of these differentially expressed genes by analyzing a public dataset from The Cancer Genome Atlas. Potential molecular mechanisms were investigated by gene ontology, the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes, and protein–protein interaction network analyses.

Results

According to the The Cancer Genome Atlas data, hsa-miR-508, hsa-miR-509-2, and hsa-miR-526b expression levels were significantly lower in early-stage CESC patients with LNM than in patients without LNM. A multivariate analysis suggested that three miRNAs were prognostic factors for CESC (P<0.05). The target genes were identified to be involved in the MAPK, cAMP, PI3K/Akt, mTOR, and estrogen cancer signaling pathways. Protein–protein interaction network analysis showed that TP53, MMP1, NOTCH1, SMAD4, and NFKB1 were the most significant hub proteins.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that hsa-miR-508, hsa-miR-509-2, and hsa-miR-526b may be potential diagnostic biomarkers for early-stage CESC with LNM, and serve as prognostic predictors for patients with CESC.

Integrative network biology analysis identifies miR-508-3p as the determinant for the mesenchymal identity and a strong prognostic biomarker of ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer is a heterogeneous malignancy that poses tremendous clinical challenge. Based on unsupervised classification of whole-genome gene expression profiles, four molecular subtypes of ovarian cancer were recently identified. However, single-driver molecular events specific to these subtypes have not been clearly elucidated. We aim to characterize the regulatory mechanisms underlying the poor prognosis mesenchymal subtype of ovarian cancer using a systems biology approach, involving a variety of molecular modalities including gene and microRNA expression profiles. miR-508-3p emerged as the most powerful determinant that regulates a cascade of dysregulated genes in the mesenchymal subtype, including core genes involved in epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) program. Moreover, miR-508-3p down-regulation, due to promoter hypermethylation, was directly correlated with metastatic behaviors in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, our multidimensional network analysis identified miR-508-3p as a master regulator that defines the mesenchymal subtype and provides a novel prognostic biomarker to improve management of this disease.

MicroRNAs as Urinary Biomarker for Oncocytoma

The identification of benign renal oncocytoma, its differentiation from malignant renal tumors, and their eosinophilic variants are a continuous challenge, influencing preoperative planning and being an unnecessary stress factor for patients. Regressive changes enhance the diagnostic dilemma, making evaluations by frozen sections or by immunohistology (on biopsies) unreliable. MicroRNAs (miRs) have been proposed as novel biomarkers to differentiate renal tumor subtypes. However, their value as a diagnostic biomarker of oncocytoma in urines based on mechanisms known in oncocytomas has not been exploited. We used urines from patients with renal tumors (oncocytoma, renal cell carcinoma: clear cell, papillary, chromophobe) and with other urogenital lesions. miRs were extracted and detected via qRT-PCR, the respective tumors analyzed by immunohistology. We found isocitrate dehydrogenase 2 upregulated in oncocytoma and oncocytic chromophobe carcinoma, indicating an increased Krebs cycle metabolism. Since we had shown that all renal tumors are stimulated by endothelin-1, we analyzed miRs preidentified by microarray after endothelin-1 stimulation of renal epithelial cells. Four miRs are proposed as presurgical urinary biomarkers due to their known regulatory mechanism in oncocytoma: miR-498 (formation of the oncocytoma-specific slice-form of vimentin, Vim3), miR-183 (associated with increased CO₂ levels), miR-205, and miR-31 (signaling through downregulation of PKC epsilon, shown previously).

Diazirine-containing tag-free RNA probes for efficient RISC-loading and photoaffinity labeling of microRNA targets

We designed and synthesized a photo-reactive and tag-free RNA probe for the identification of microRNA (miRNA) targets. To synthesize the RNA probe, we designed a novel nucleoside analog 1-O-[3-ethynyl-5-(3-trifluoromethyl-3H-diazirine-3-yl)]benzyl-β-d-ribofuranose containing aryl trifluoromethyl diazirine and ethynyl moieties. The RNA probe containing this analog was observed to form crosslinks with complementary RNA by UV irradiation and was rapidly tagged by Cu-catalyzed azide alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC). In addition, the tag-free and photo-reactive miRNA-145 probe showed comparable gene silencing activity to that of unmodified miRNA-145. Therefore, miRNA probes containing the nucleoside analog are promising candidates for the identification of target mRNAs of miRNAs.

MicroRNA-508 suppresses epithelial-mesenchymal transition, migration, and invasion of ovarian cancer cells through the MAPK1/ERK signaling pathway

Ovarian cancer (OC) is the sixth most common cancer in women worldwide. Despite advances in detection and therapies, it still represents the most lethal gynecologic malignancy in the industrialized countries. Unfortunately, the molecular events that lead to the development of this highly aggressive disease remain largely unknown. The study explored the ability of microRNA-508 (miR-508) to influence proliferation, migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in OC cells. We quantified the level of miR-508 cancer tissues with corresponding adjacent normal tissues collected from 84 patients with OC. Human OC cells SKOV3 and A2780 were treated with negative control (NC), miR-508 mimics, miR-508 inhibitors, and miR-508 inhibitors + a specific MAPK/ERK kinase inhibitor (PD98059) to validate the interaction between miR-508 and MAPK/ERK signaling. The miR-508 expression level was lower while MAPK1 and ERK expression levels were higher in the cancer tissues than in the adjacent normal tissues. Dual-luciferase reporter assay indicated MAPK1 as a target gene of miR-508. The miR-508 mimics reduced the expression of MAPK1, p-MAPK1, ERK, p-ERK and Vimentin, inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion, and increased the expression of E-cadherin, while the miR-508 inhibitors resulted in an opposed trend in OC cells. The effects of miR-508 inhibitors on OC cells were lost when the MAPK1/ERK signaling pathway was inhibited by PD98059. Collectively, our data indicate that miR-508 plays a tumor suppressor role in the development and progression of OC and may be a novel therapeutic target against OC.

miR-509-3p is clinically significant and strongly attenuates cellular migration and multi-cellular spheroids in ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer presents as an aggressive, advanced stage cancer with widespread metastases that depend primarily on multicellular spheroids in the peritoneal fluid. To identify new druggable pathways related to metastatic progression and spheroid formation, we integrated microRNA and mRNA sequencing data from 293 tumors from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) ovarian cancer cohort. We identified miR-509-3p as a clinically significant microRNA that is more abundant in patients with favorable survival in both the TCGA cohort (P = 2.3E–3), and, by in situ hybridization (ISH), in an independent cohort of 157 tumors (P < 1.0E–3). We found that miR-509-3p attenuated migration and disrupted multi-cellular spheroids in HEYA8, OVCAR8, SKOV3, OVCAR3, OVCAR4 and OVCAR5 cell lines. Consistent with disrupted spheroid formation, in TCGA data miR-509-3p's most strongly anti-correlated predicted targets were enriched in components of the extracellular matrix (ECM). We validated the Hippo pathway effector YAP1 as a direct miR-509-3p target. We showed that siRNA to YAP1 replicated 90% of miR-509-3p-mediated migration attenuation in OVCAR8, which contained high levels of YAP1 protein, but not in the other cell lines, in which levels of this protein were moderate to low. Our data suggest that the miR-509-3p/YAP1 axis may be a new druggable target in cancers with high YAP1, and we propose that therapeutically targeting the miR-509-3p/YAP1/ECM axis may disrupt early steps in multi-cellular spheroid formation, and so inhibit metastasis in epithelial ovarian cancer and potentially in other cancers.

MicroRNA‑509 acts as a tumor suppressor in tongue squamous cell carcinoma by targeting epidermal growth factor receptor

Tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) is the most frequent type of oral carcinoma, and is characterized by high metastatic and growth capabilities. Previous studies have demonstrated that aberrantly expressed cancer‑associated microRNAs (miRs) may be associated with tumorigenesis and tumor development in various types of cancer, including TSCC. miR‑509 has been identified as a critical regulator in tumorigenesis and tumor development, via its tumor‑suppressing actions in several types of human cancer. In the present study, miR‑509 expression in TSCC tissues and cell lines was determined by reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The effects of miR‑509 on TSCC cell proliferation and invasion were evaluated via MTT and invasion assays, respectively. In addition, the direct target of miR‑509 in TSCC was investigated. The present study demonstrated that miR‑509 expression was downregulated in TSCC tissue samples and cell lines, whereas its ectopic expression suppressed TSCC cell proliferation and invasion in vitro. In addition, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) was identified as a direct target gene of miR‑509 in TSCC cells. EGFR downregulation was demonstrated to suppress the proliferation and invasion of TSCC cells, similar to miR‑509 overexpression. Furthermore, EGFR was significantly upregulated in TSCC tissues, and the levels of miR‑509 were revealed to be negatively correlated with EGFR expression in TSCC tissues. Following transfection with miR‑509 mimics, signaling pathways downstream of EGFR appeared to be suppressed, as phosphorylated (p)‑extracellular signal‑regulated kinase and p‑Akt were downregulated in TSCC cells. In conclusion, the results of the present study suggested that miR‑509 may inhibit the proliferation and invasion of TSCC cells via directly targeting EGFR, thus suggesting that the miR‑509/EGFR axis may have potential as a novel therapeutic target for the development of a treatment for patients with TSCC.

Large-scale genome-wide screening of circulating microRNAs in clear cell renal cell carcinoma reveals specific signatures in late-stage disease

Circulating miRNAs have shown great promises as noninvasive diagnostic and predictive biomarkers in several solid tumors. While the miRNA profiles of renal tumors have been extensively explored, knowledge of their circulating counterparts is limited. Our study aimed to provide a large-scale genome-wide profiling of plasma circulating miRNA in clear-cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Plasma samples from 94 ccRCC cases and 100 controls were screened for 754 circulating micro-RNAs (miRNA) by TaqMan arrays. Analyses including known risk factors for renal cancer-namely, age, sex, hypertension, obesity, diabetes, tobacco smoking and alcohol consumption-highlighted that circulating miRNA profiles were tightly correlated with the stage of the disease. Advanced tumors, characterized as stage III and IV, were associated with specific miRNA signatures that significantly differ from both controls and earlier stage ccRCC cases. Molecular pathway enrichment analyses of their gene targets showed high similarities with alterations observed in renal tumors. Plasma circulating levels of miR-150 were significantly associated with RCC-specific survival and could marginally improve the predictive accuracy of clinical parameters in our series, including age at diagnosis, sex and conventional staging. In summary, our results suggest that circulating miRNAs may provide insights into renal cell carcinoma progression.

MiR-411 Functions as a Tumor Suppressor in Renal Cell Cancer

Background

Recent studies have revealed that microRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles as oncogenes or tumor suppressors in tumorigenesis and tumor development, by negatively regulating protein expression. A previous study of microarrays identified that miR-411 was down-regulated in renal cell carcinoma (RCC), while few studies investigating the role of miR-411 in the pathogenesis of RCC have been performed.

Methods

We assessed the miR-411 expression in RCC and paired adjacent normal tissues, as well as in RCC cell lines and a normal renal cell line, by quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Furthermore, the effects of miR-411 on RCC and normal renal cell proliferation, apoptosis and migration were determined using MTT assay, CCK-8 assay, flow cytometry and scratch wound assay following restoration of miR-411 with synthetic mimics.

Results

Results of qRT-PCR indicated that the expression of miR-411 was down-regulated in RCC tissues and cell lines when compared with adjacent normal tissues and a normal renal cell line. Further, results of CCK-8, MTT, cell scratch and transwell assay showed that over-expression of miR-411 suppressed RCC cell (786-0 and ACHN) proliferation and migration. Flow cytometry assay revealed that miR-411 could induce RCC cell apoptosis. However, overexpression of miR-411 had no obvious effect on normal renal cell line 293T

Conclusions

To sum up, miR-411 is significantly down-regulated and plays a role as a tumor suppressor in RCC. Further studies are warranted to determine the mechanisms of miR-411 in RCC pathogenesis and define the target genes of miR-411 in RCC.

MicroRNA‑24‑2 is associated with cell proliferation, invasion, migration and apoptosis in renal cell carcinoma

Micro (mi)RNAs are involved in multiple cellular processes, and alterations in miRNA expression have been demonstrated to lead to tumorigenesis. Previous microarray analysis revealed that miRNA (miR)‑24 was downregulated in renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Additionally, miR‑24 has been identified as an oncogene and tumor suppressor in various cancers. The present study assessed the expression levels of two stem‑loops of miR‑24, miR‑24‑1 and miR‑24‑2, in RCC tissues and paired healthy tissues by reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The results revealed that miR‑24‑2 was upregulated in RCC tissues and ACHN, 786‑O and 769P cell lines compared with healthy tissues and HEK‑293T cells, respectively, whereas miR‑24‑1 was almost absent in RCC and healthy kidney tissues. To investigate the role of miR‑24‑2 in RCC, a synthesized miR‑24‑2 mimic, negative control (NC), inhibitor or inhibitor NC was transfected into 786‑O and ACHN RCC cells, and cell proliferation, mobility and apoptosis assays were performed. The results of the present study revealed that miR‑24‑2 was associated with cell proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis, thus demonstrating that miR‑24‑2 may serve a role as an oncogene in RCC. Further studies are required to investigate the signaling pathways of miR‑24‑2, and the potential of miR‑24‑2 as a therapeutic target or biomarker for the early detection of RCC.

Differential expression of urinary exosomal microRNAs in IgA nephropathy

BACKGROUND

Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common type of primary glomerulonephritis in the world. Reliable biomarkers are required for the non-invasive diagnosis and monitoring of IgAN. This study aims to investigate the difference in urinary exosomal microRNA (miRNA) expression profiles between patients with IgA nephropathy (IgAN) and healthy controls, which may provide clues to identify novel potential non-invasive miRNA biomarkers for renal diseases.

METHODS

Urine samples were collected from eighteen healthy controls and eighteen patients with IgAN. Differential centrifugation was performed to isolate exosomes from urine samples. High-throughput sequencing and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) were sequentially used to screen and further validate miRNA expression profiles in urinary exosomes of patients with IgAN in two independent cohorts.

RESULTS

Urinary exosomes were successfully isolated to obtain exosomal miRNAs. MiR-215-5p and miR-378i were significantly upregulated in urinary exosomes of patients with IgAN compared with healthy controls (P<.01), while miR-29c and miR-205-5p were significantly downregulated (P<.05). MiR-215-5p, miR-378i, miR-365b-3p and miR-135b-5p were found to have altered expression in patients with IgAN from validation cohorts, which was consistent with the high-throughput sequencing analysis.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that there is a significant difference in urinary exosomal miRNA profiles between patients with IgAN and healthy controls. These exosomal miRNAs, such as miR-29c, miR-146a and miR-205 may potentially serve as novel non-invasive biomarkers for IgAN.

MicroRNA expression profiles in human CD3+ T cells following stimulation with anti-human CD3 antibodies

Background

Anti-CD3 therapy can induce immunosuppression by several non mutually exclusive mechanisms that have been proposed to explain the therapeutic effect the administration anti-CD3 mAb, but its immunoregulatory mechanism is still not completely clear. In T cells, microRNAs (miRNAs) regulate several pathways, including those associated with immune tolerance. Here, we report changes in miRNA expression in T cells following treatment with anti-human CD3 antibodies. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were cultured in the presence of the monoclonal antibody OKT3 or a recombinant fragment of humanized anti-CD3. Following these treatments, the expression profiles of 31 miRNA species were assessed in T cells using TaqMan arrays.

Results

Eight of the tested miRNAs (miR-155, miR-21, miR-146a, miR-210, miR-17, miR-590-5p, miR-106b and miR-301a) were statistically significantly up- or down-regulated relative to untreated cells.

Conclusions

Stimulation of T cells with anti-human CD3 antibodies alters miRNA expression patterns, including of miRNA species associated with immune regulatory pathways.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13104-017-2442-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Overexpression of miR-509 Increases Apoptosis and Inhibits Invasion via Suppression of Tumor Necrosis Factor-α in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Hs578T Cells

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is associated with high recurrence rates of metastasis and death. miR-509 has been reported to be a tumor suppressor in many cancers, but its effect in TNBC has not yet been identified. In this article, we explored the effects of miR-509 on the malignant phenotype of TNBC cells, including proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion. We transiently transfected TNBC cells, Hs578T, with miR-509 mimic. Upon transfection, the expression of miR-509 was upregulated about 50-fold compared with cells transfected with scramble mimic. Overexpression of miR-509 inhibited cell proliferation, induced cell apoptosis, and suppressed cell invasion of Hs578T cells. Moreover, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) was involved in miR-509-mediated suppressive effects of TNBC cells, as being treated with TNF-α could partially abolish the suppressive effects of miR-509. Collectively, these data suggest that miR-509 could reverse the malignant phenotype of TNBC cells, probably by suppressing TNF-α.

SPARC overexpression alters microRNA expression profiles involved in tumor progression

Medulloblastoma is the most common malignant brain tumor in children. SPARC (secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine), a multicellular non-structural glycoprotein is known to be involved in multiple processes in various cancers. Previously, we reported that SPARC expression significantly impairs medulloblastoma tumor growth in vitro and in vivo and also alters chemo sensitivity. MicroRNAs are a class of post-transcriptional gene regulators with critical functions in tumor progression. In addition, microRNA (miRNA) expression changes are also involved in chemo-resistance. Herein, we assessed microRNA (miRNA) profiling to identify the functional network and biological pathways altered in SPARC-overexpressed medulloblastoma cells. A total of 27 differentially expressed miRNAs were identified between the control and SPARC-overexpressed samples. Potential messenger RNA (mRNA) targets of the differentially expressed miRNA were identified using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA). Network-based functional analyses were performed on the available human protein interaction and miRNA-gene association data to highlight versatile miRNAs among the significantly deregulated miRNAs using the IPA, and the biological pathway analysis using the PANTHER web-based tool. We have identified six miRNAs (miR-125b1*, miR-146a-5p, miR-181a-5p, miR-204-5p, miR-219-5p and miR-509-3p) that are associated with SPARC sensitivity by comparison of miRNA expression patterns from the SPARC treated cells with the control cells. Furthermore, pathway enrichment analysis outline that these six microRNAs mainly belong to biological processes related to cancer related signaling pathways. Collectively, these studies have the potential to indicate novel biomarkers for treatment response and can also be applied to develop novel therapeutic treatment for medulloblastoma.

Associations of five polymorphisms in the CD44 gene with cancer susceptibility in Asians

CD44 polymorphisms have been previously associated with cancer risk. However, the results between independent studies were inconsistent. Here, a meta-analysis was performed to systematically evaluate associations between CD44 polymorphisms and cancer susceptibility. A comprehensive literature search conducted in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases through August 10, 2016 yielded 11 eligible publications consisting of 5,788 cancer patients and 5,852 controls. Overall, odds ratios (OR) calculated with 95% confidence intervals (CI) identified a significant association between CD44 polymorphism rs13347 and cancer susceptibility under all genetic models. Additionally, the minor allele of polymorphism rs11821102 was associated with a decreased susceptibility to cancer in allele contrast, dominant, and heterozygous models, while no significant association was identified for polymorphisms rs10836347, rs713330, or rs1425802. Subgroup analysis by ethnicity revealed rs13347 was significantly associated with cancer susceptibility for Chinese but not for Indians. Linkage disequilibrium (LD) between different polymorphisms varied across diverse ethnic populations. In conclusion, the results indicate that CD44 polymorphism rs13347 acts as a risk factor for cancer, especially in Chinese, while the minor allele of polymorphism rs11821102 may be associated with a decreased susceptibility to cancer. Nevertheless, further studies on a larger population covering different ethnicities are warranted.

Tumour-suppressor microRNAs regulate ovarian cancer cell physical properties and invasive behaviour

The activities of pathways that regulate malignant transformation can be influenced by microRNAs (miRs). Recently, we showed that increased expression of five tumour-suppressor miRs, miR-508-3p, miR-508-5p, miR-509-3p, miR-509-5p and miR-130b-3p, correlate with improved clinical outcomes in human ovarian cancer patients, and that miR-509-3p attenuates invasion of ovarian cancer cell lines. Here, we investigate the mechanism underlying this reduced invasive potential by assessing the impact of these five miRs on the physical properties of cells. Human ovarian cancer cells (HEYA8, OVCAR8) that are transfected with miR mimics representing these five miRs exhibit decreased invasion through collagen matrices, increased cell size and reduced deformability as measured by microfiltration and microfluidic assays. To understand the molecular basis of altered invasion and deformability induced by these miRs, we use predicted and validated mRNA targets that encode structural and signalling proteins that regulate cell mechanical properties. Combined with analysis of gene transcripts by real-time PCR and image analysis of F-actin in single cells, our results suggest that these tumour-suppressor miRs may alter cell physical properties by regulating the actin cytoskeleton. Our findings provide biophysical insights into how tumour-suppressor miRs can regulate the invasive behaviour of ovarian cancer cells, and identify potential therapeutic targets that may be implicated in ovarian cancer progression.

Upregulated miR-193a-3p as an oncogene in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma regulating cellular proliferation, migration and apoptosis

MicroRNAs (miRs) are small endogenous non-coding RNAs that play a vital role in carcinogenesis. miR-193a-3p has been described in multiple cancers. However, the function of miR-193a-3p in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is still unclear. To explore the role of miR-193a-3p in ESCC, reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to evaluate the expression of miR-193a-3p in 48 paired ESCC and adjacent normal tissues. In addition, the impact of miR-193a-3p on cell proliferation, migration and apoptosis were analyzed by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, wound scratch assay and flow cytometry, respectively. The results revealed that miR-193a-3p was upregulated in ESCC, compared with adjacent normal tissues. Downregulation of miR-193a-3p expression using a synthesized inhibitor suppressed cell proliferation and migration, and induced cell apoptosis, indicating that miR-193a-3p could be characterized as an oncogene in ESCC. In summary, the present study demonstrated that miR-193a-3p was upregulated in ESCC, where it plays a significant role by affecting cellular proliferation, migration and apoptosis.

Downregulated miR-486-5p acts as a tumor suppressor in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

microRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) are crucial regulators of gene expression at the post-translational level through promoting mRNA degradation or the repression of translation of target genes. miRs have been confirmed to serve a dominant role in tumor biology. miR-486-5p has been ascertained to be involved in non-small-cell lung cancer, breast cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma; however, the expression and function of miR-486-5p in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) has yet to be elucidated. The present study aimed to analyze the expression levels of miR-486-5p in ESCC tissues and paired normal adjacent tissues, and determine the effects of miR-486-5p on esophageal cancer cells using MTT, wound scratch and apoptosis assays. The current results showed that miR-486-5p was significantly downregulated in ESCC specimens. Ectopic expression of miR-486-5p by synthetic mimics reduced cell proliferation and migration and induced increased cell apoptosis. The results indicated miR-486-5p may function as a tumor suppressor in ESCC. The present study demonstrated that miR-486-5p was downregulated in ESCC and served a anti-oncogene role in ESCC via affecting cellular migration.

MicroRNA-509-3p Inhibits Cancer Cell Proliferation and Migration via Upregulation of XIAP in Gastric Cancer Cells

Gastric cancer (GC) is the fourth most common cancer globally. Recently, microRNAs (miRNAs) have been suggested to be closely associated with tumorigenesis. Aberrant expression of miR-509-3p has been reported in cancer studies. However, the expression and mechanism of its function in GC remain unclear. Here we showed that miR-509-3p was downregulated in GC specimens, which was associated with overall survival. Functional investigations demonstrated that the overexpression of miR-509-3p inhibited the migration and proliferation of the GC cells. Additionally, we identified X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP) as a direct target of miR-509-3p. Knockdown of XIAP significantly attenuated the ability of proliferation, migration, and invasion of GC cells. The data therefore suggest that miR-509-3p plays an important role in the development and progression of GC, implicating possible applications in the clinic as a biomarker and a potential new target.

MiR-509-3-5p causes aberrant mitosis and anti-proliferative effect by suppression of PLK1 in human lung cancer A549 cells

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are potent post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression and play roles in DNA damage response (DDR). PLK1 is identified as a modulator of DNA damage checkpoint. Although down-regulation of PLK1 by certain microRNAs has been reported, little is known about the interplay between PLK1 and miR-509-3-5p in DDR. Here we have demonstrated that miR-509-3-5p repressed PLK1 expression by targeting PLK1 3'-UTR, thereby causing mitotic aberration and growth arrest of human lung cancer A549 cells. Repression of PLK1 by miR-509-3-5p was further evidenced by over-expression of miR-509-3-5p in A549, HepG2 and HCT116p53(-/-) cancer cells, in which PLK1 protein was suppressed. Consistently, miR-509-3-5p was stimulated, while PLK1 protein was down-regulated in A549 cells exposed to CIS and ADR, suggesting that suppression of PLK1 by miR-509-3-5p is a component of CIS/ADR-induced DDR pathway. Flow cytometry and immunofluorescence labeling showed that over-expression of miR-509-3-5p in A549 induced G2/M arrest and aberrant mitosis characterized by abnormal bipolar mitotic spindles, condensed chromosomes, lagging DNA and chromosome bridges. In addition, over-expression of miR-509-3-5p markedly blocked A549 cell proliferation and sensitized the cells to CIS and ADR treatment. Taken together, miR-509-3-5p is a feasible suppressor for cancer by targeting PLK1. Our data may provide aid in potential design of combined chemotherapy and in our better understanding of the roles of microRNAs in response to DNA damage.