miR-214 down-regulates ARL2 and suppresses growth and invasion of cervical cancer cells

ARL11 correlates with the immunosuppression and poor prognosis in breast cancer: A comprehensive bioinformatics analysis of ARL family members

ADP-ribosylation factor-like protein (ARL) family members (ARLs) may regulate the malignant phenotypes of cancer cells. However, relevant studies on ARLs in breast cancer (BC) are limited. In this research, the expression profiles, genetic variations, and prognostic values of ARLs in BC have been systematically analyzed for the first time using various databases. We find that ARLs are significantly dysregulated in BC according to the TCGA database, which may result from DNA methylation and copy number alteration. Prognostic analysis suggests that ARL11 is the most significant prognostic indicator for BC, and higher ARL11 predicts worse clinical outcomes for BC patients. Further functional enrichment analysis demonstrates that ARL11 enhances the immunosuppression in BC, and dysregulation of ARL11 is significantly associated with immune infiltration in various types of cancer. Our results demonstrate the potential of ARL11 as an immune therapeutic target for BC.

MiR-1254 suppresses the proliferation and invasion of cervical cancer cells by modulating CD36

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to elucidate the roles of miR-1254 in cervical cancer progression and to explore the underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

The expression levels of miR-1254 in normal-cancer cervical tissues and cells were measured using quantitive real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The invasive and proliferative abilities of cervical cancer cell lines transfected with negative control (NC) mimic or miR-1254 mimic were measured using transwell, CCK-8, and colony formation assays. The binding sites between CD36 and miR-1254 were determined using luciferase reporter assays. The correlation of CD36 and miR-1254 with cervical cancer development was re-confirmed by co-transfection of miR-1254 mimic and CD36 overexpression using CCK-8, colony formation, transwell and western blot assays.

RESULTS

MiR-1254 was expressed at significantly lower levels in the cervical cancer cell lines and tissues than in the controls. The functional assays revealed that upregulation of miR-1254 inhibited the invasion and proliferation of cervical cancer cells. The luciferase reporter assays demonstrated that CD36 messenger RNA and miR-1254 bound to one another. CD36 overexpression reversed the inhibitory effects of upregulated miR-1254 in the cervical cancer cells, suggesting that miR-1254 regulates cervical cancer progression by modulating CD36.

CONCLUSION

miR-1254 attenuated the invasion and proliferation of cervical cancer cells by modulating the expression levels of CD36.

Knockdown of microRNA-214-3p Promotes Tumor Growth and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Prostate Cancer

Simple Summary

Prostate Cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. In this study, we analyzed a molecule known as a microRNA, which regulates the expression of genes. microRNAs are involved in processes related to cancer onset and progression. Abnormal expression of microRNAs can promote prostate cancer. This study showed that knockdown of microRNA miR-214-3p enhanced the progression and of prostate cancer. In addition, miR-214 regulated the expression of many genes. These results are useful to better understand the function of miR-214-3p in prostate cancer and can be a useful target in the treatment of the disease.

Abstract

Abnormal expression of microRNA miR-214-3p (miR-214) is associated with multiple cancers. In this study, we assessed the effects of CRISPR/Cas9 mediated miR-214 depletion in prostate cancer (PCa) cells and the underlying mechanisms. Knockdown of miR-214 promoted PCa cell proliferation, invasion, migration, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and increased resistance to anoikis, a key feature of PCa cells that undergo metastasis. The reintroduction of miR-214 in miR-214 knockdown cells reversed these effects and significantly suppressed cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. These in vitro studies are consistent with the role of miR-214 as a tumor suppressor. Moreover, miR-214 knockout increased tumor growth in PCa xenografts in nude mice supporting its anti-oncogenic role in PCa. Knockdown of miR-214 increased the expression of its target protein, Protein Tyrosine Kinase 6 (PTK6), a kinase shown to promote oncogenic signaling and tumorigenesis in PCa. In addition, miR-214 modulated EMT as exhibited by differential regulation of E-Cadherin, N-Cadherin, and Vimentin both in vitro and in vivo. RNA-seq analysis of miR-214 knockdown cells revealed altered gene expression related to PCa tumor growth pathways, including EMT and metastasis. Collectively, our findings reveal that miR-214 is a key regulator of PCa oncogenesis and is a potential novel therapeutic target for the treatment of the disease.

Unraveling the Relevance of ARL GTPases in Cutaneous Melanoma Prognosis through Integrated Bioinformatics Analysis

Cutaneous melanoma (CM) is the deadliest skin cancer, whose molecular pathways underlying its malignancy remain unclear. Therefore, new information to guide evidence-based clinical decisions is required. Adenosine diphosphate (ADP)-ribosylation factor-like (ARL) proteins are membrane trafficking regulators whose biological relevance in CM is undetermined. Here, we investigated ARL expression and its impact on CM prognosis and immune microenvironment through integrated bioinformatics analysis. Our study found that all 22 ARLs are differentially expressed in CM. Specifically, ARL1 and ARL11 are upregulated and ARL15 is downregulated regardless of mutational frequency or copy number variations. According to TCGA data, ARL1 and ARL15 represent independent prognostic factors in CM as well as ARL11 based on GEPIA and OncoLnc. To investigate the mechanisms by which ARL1 and ARL11 increase patient survival while ARL15 reduces it, we evaluated their correlation with the immune microenvironment. CD4+ T cells and neutrophil infiltrates are significantly increased by ARL1 expression. Furthermore, ARL11 expression was correlated with 17 out of 21 immune infiltrates, including CD8+ T cells and M2 macrophages, described as having anti-tumoral activity. Likewise, ARL11 is interconnected with ZAP70, ADAM17, and P2RX7, which are implicated in immune cell activation. Collectively, this study provides the first evidence that ARL1, ARL11, and ARL15 may influence CM progression, prognosis, and immune microenvironment remodeling.

microRNA Levels in Cervical Cancer Samples and Relationship with Lesion Grade and HPV Infection

BACKGROUND

miR-21, miR-214, and miR-let-7a are three validated and well-known miRNAs. miR-21 is described as an "oncomir," while miR-214 and miR-let-7a are described mainly as tumor suppressors. The role of these miRNAs remains unclear in cervical cancer, an important malignancy among women worldwide and responsible for many deaths every year.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to describe the expression profile of miR-21, miR-214, and miR-let-7a in plasma and cervical scraping from a control group and patients with different grades of cervical lesions and invasive cervical cancer, and then correlate with HPV infection groups.

METHODS

Plasma and cervical scraping were submitted to DNA and RNA extraction. HPV detection and typing were performed by conventional PCR followed by PAGE to amplicons interpretation. The miRNA relative expression in plasma and cervical scraping samples was performed by real-time PCR using specific TaqMan probes.

RESULTS

miR-21 (p=0.0277) and miR-214 (p=0.0151) were up-regulated in cervical scraping samples of the invasive cervical cancer (ICC) group. However, miR-214 was also up-regulated in the LSIL group (p=0.0062). Both miRNAs were not related to HPV infection. However, miR-let-7a was higher in HPV positive plasma samples (p=0.0433) than in HPV negative plasma samples, and the correlation analysis confirmed the association between the levels of this miRNA with the presence of HPV (p=0.0407; r=0.3029), but not with lesion grade (p>0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that miR-21 is related to cervical cancer progression and miR-214 appears to have an ambiguous role in cervical lesions. miR-let-7a may be upregulated at the systemic level in patients with HPV infection.

ARL4C might serve as a prognostic factor and a novel therapeutic target for gastric cancer: bioinformatics analyses and biological experiments

The ADP‐ribosylation factor‐like proteins (ARLs) have been proved to regulate the malignant phenotypes of several cancers. However, the exact role of ARLs in gastric cancer (GC) remains elusive. In this study, we systematically investigate the expression status, interactive relations, potential pathways, genetic variations and clinical values of ARLs in GC. We find that ARLs are significantly dysregulated in GC and involved in various cancer‐related pathways. Subsequently, machine learning models identify ARL4C as one of the two most significant clinical indicators among ARLs for GC. Furthermore, ARL4C silencing remarkably inhibits the growth and metastasis of GC cells both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, enrichment analysis indicates that ARL4C is highly correlated with TGF‐β1 signalling. Correspondingly, TGF‐β1 treatment dramatically increases ARL4C expression and ARL4C knockdown inhibits the phosphorylation level of Smads, downstream factors of TGF‐β1. Meanwhile, the coexpression of ARL4C and TGF‐β1 worsens the prognosis of GC patients. Our work comprehensively demonstrates the crucial role of ARLs in the carcinogenesis of GC and the specific mechanisms underlying the GC‐promoting effects of TGF‐β1. More importantly, we uncover the great promise of ARL4C‐targeted therapy in improving the efficacy of TGF‐β1 inhibitors for GC patients.

Long non-coding RNA MEG3 silencing and microRNA-214 restoration elevate osteoprotegerin expression to ameliorate osteoporosis by limiting TXNIP

Studies have shown that long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) MEG3 plays a key role in osteoporosis (OP), but its regulatory mechanism is somewhat incompletely clear. Here, we intend to probe into the mechanism of MEG3 on OP development by modulating microRNA-214 (miR-214) and thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP). Rat models of OP were established. MEG3, miR-214 and TXNIP mRNA expression in rat femoral tissues were detected, along with TXNIP, OPG and RANKL protein expression. BMD, BV/TV, Tb.N and Tb.Th in tissue samples were measured. Ca, P and ALP contents in rat serum were also determined. Primary osteoblasts were isolated and cultured. Viability, COL-I, COL-II and COL-Χ mRNA expression, PCNA, cyclin D1, OCN, RUNX2 and osteolix protein expresion, ALP content and activity, and mineralized nodule area of rat osteoblasts were further detected. Dual-luciferase reporter gene and RNA-pull down assays verified the targeting relationship between MEG3, miR-214 and TXNIP. MEG3 and TXNIP were up-regulated while miR-214 was down-regulated in femoral tissues of OP rats. MEG3 silencing and miR-214 overexpression increased BMD, BV/TV, Tb.N, Tb.Th, trabecular bone area, collagen area and OPG expression, and down-regulated RANKL of femoral tissues in OP rats. MEG3 silencing and miR-214 overexpression elevated Ca and P and reduced ALP in OP rat serum, elevated osteoblast viability, differentiation ability, COL-I and COL-Χ expression and ALP activity, and reduced COL-II expression of osteoblasts. MEG3 specifically bound to miR-214 to regulate TXNIP. MEG3 silencing and miR-214 overexpression promote proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts in OP by down-regulating TXNIP, which further improves OP.

LncRNA PVT1 promotes cervical cancer progression by sponging miR-503 to upregulate ARL2 expression

Cervical cancer (CC) is a huge threat to the health of women worldwide. Long non-coding RNA plasmacytoma variant translocation 1 gene (PVT1) was proved to be associated with the development of diverse human cancers, including CC. Nevertheless, the exact mechanism of PVT1 in CC progression remains unclear. Levels of PVT1, microRNA-503 (miR-503), and ADP ribosylation factor-like protein 2 (ARL2) were measured by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction or western blot assay. 3-(4,5)-Dimethylthiazole-2-y1)-2,5-biphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) and flow cytometry were used to examine cell viability and apoptosis, respectively. For migration and invasion detection, transwell assay was performed. The interaction between miR-503 and PVT1 or ARL2 was shown by dual luciferase reporter assay. A nude mouse model was constructed to clarify the role of PVT1 in vivo. PVT1 and ARL2 expressions were increased, whereas miR-503 expression was decreased in CC tissues and cells. PVT1 was a sponge of miR-503, and miR-503 targeted ARL2. PVT1 knockdown suppressed proliferation, migration, and invasion of CC cells, which could be largely reverted by miR-503 inhibitor. In addition, upregulated ARL2 could attenuate si-PVT1-mediated anti-proliferation and anti-metastasis effects on CC cells. Silenced PVT1 also inhibited CC tumor growth in vivo. PVT1 knockdown exerted tumor suppressor role in CC progression via the miR-503/ARL2 axis, at least in part.

Regulation of ARL2 in colorectal cancer cell proliferation and tumorigenicity, and its negative association with AXL

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common malignant disease in adults. ADP ribosylation factor-like GTPase 2 (ARL2) is crucial for controlling the dynamics of microtubules and mitochondrial functions. However, the biological function of ARL2 in CRC remains unclear. The present study was performed to identify the expression level and functional role of ARL2 in CRC. A total of 19 CRC and 3 normal healthy colorectal tissues were collected. Furthermore, ARL2 expression was analyzed in healthy colorectal and CRC tissues by immunohistochemistry (IHC). ARL2 overexpression and knockdown was achieved using lentiviral vectors and plasmid transfection in HCT8 and HCT116 cells. The protein and mRNA expression levels of ARL2 and AXL were analyzed using western blot and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR in ARL2 knockdown and ARL2 overexpressing HCT8 and HCT116 cells. Cell Counting Kit-8, colony formation, wound healing, and Matrigel assays were used to investigate the biological functions of ARL2. Taken together, ARL2 protein expression level was upregulated in CRC tissues. Furthermore, ARL2 overexpression decreased proliferation and weakened the colony-formation abilities of the CRC cells, as well as their migratory and invasive abilities. ARL2 interference enhanced proliferation and colony-formation rates of the CRC cells, as well as their migratory and invasive abilities. ARL2 regulated CRC proliferation and tumorigenicity and was negatively associated with AXL. The results of the present study suggested that the proliferation, migration and tumorigenicity of the CRC cells could be inhibited by ARL2 overexpression. The latter may be used as a predicted and potential therapeutic target for CRC.

Regulators at Every Step-How microRNAs Drive Tumor Cell Invasiveness and Metastasis

Tumor cell invasiveness and metastasis are the main causes of mortality in cancer. Tumor progression is composed of many steps, including primary tumor growth, local invasion, intravasation, survival in the circulation, pre-metastatic niche formation, and metastasis. All these steps are strictly controlled by microRNAs (miRNAs), small non-coding RNA that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. miRNAs can act as oncomiRs that promote tumor cell invasion and metastasis or as tumor suppressor miRNAs that inhibit tumor progression. These miRNAs regulate the actin cytoskeleton, the expression of extracellular matrix (ECM) receptors including integrins and ECM-remodeling enzymes comprising matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and regulate epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), hence modulating cell migration and invasiveness. Moreover, miRNAs regulate angiogenesis, the formation of a pre-metastatic niche, and metastasis. Thus, miRNAs are biomarkers of metastases as well as promising targets of therapy. In this review, we comprehensively describe the role of various miRNAs in tumor cell migration, invasion, and metastasis.

Regulators at Every Step—How microRNAs Drive Tumor Cell Invasiveness and Metastasis

Tumor cell invasiveness and metastasis are the main causes of mortality in cancer. Tumor progression is composed of many steps, including primary tumor growth, local invasion, intravasation, survival in the circulation, pre-metastatic niche formation, and metastasis. All these steps are strictly controlled by microRNAs (miRNAs), small non-coding RNA that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. miRNAs can act as oncomiRs that promote tumor cell invasion and metastasis or as tumor suppressor miRNAs that inhibit tumor progression. These miRNAs regulate the actin cytoskeleton, the expression of extracellular matrix (ECM) receptors including integrins and ECM-remodeling enzymes comprising matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and regulate epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), hence modulating cell migration and invasiveness. Moreover, miRNAs regulate angiogenesis, the formation of a pre-metastatic niche, and metastasis. Thus, miRNAs are biomarkers of metastases as well as promising targets of therapy. In this review, we comprehensively describe the role of various miRNAs in tumor cell migration, invasion, and metastasis.

Comprehensive analysis of the relationship between competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks and tumor infiltrating-cells in hepatocellular carcinoma

Background

The innovation of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) represents a promising shift in the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, response to ICB has varied largely due to the high tumor heterogeneity and complex tumor microenvironment (TME). The competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network also plays an important role in tumor occurrence and progression, but its relation with tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TICs) remains largely unexplored in HCC. The overriding objective of our study was thus to construct a prognosis-related risk model and to further evaluate the relationship between ceRNA networks and TICs.

Methods

Differentially expressed gene (DEG) analysis was performed to identify the differentially expressed RNAs. Lasso and multivariable Cox regression analyses were used to construct risk models, which were assessed by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC of ROC) and Kaplan-Meier (K-M) curves. Then, a single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) algorithm was adopted to dissect the TICs in HCC samples. Nomograms were constructed and calibration curves were used to verify the discrimination and accuracy of the nomograms. Finally, integration analysis was performed to validate the correlation of ceRNA and TICs.

Results

In the study, 7 differentially expressed RNAs [5 messenger RNA s (mRNAs) and 2 micro RNAs (miRNAs)] were incorporated to construct a ceRNA risk model. The AUC of the 1-, 3-, and 5-year overall survival (OS) were 0.784, 0.685, and 0.691 respectively. Likewise, 7 types TICs were in the TICs signature model and the AUC of the 1-, 3-, and 5-year OS were 0.706, 0.731, and 0.721 respectively. The integration analysis showed that 7 pairs of mRNA-TICs and 1 pair of miRNA-TICs had a close relation (all correlation coefficients >0.2, P<0.001).

Conclusions

Through constructing two risk models based on ceRNA network and TICs, we identified the hub RNAs and key TICs in the progression and prognosis of HCC, and further explored the relationship between ceRNA and TME. Importantly, targeting these hub RNAs may facilitate the remodeling of the TME and be a potential therapeutic alternative to enhancing the response to ICB, thus improving the prognosis of HCC patients.

Circ_0084927 Facilitates Cervical Cancer Development via Sponging miR-142-3p and Upregulating ARL2

Background

Cervical cancer is a fatal burden for women. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are important regulators in cancer development. Our study aimed to investigate the function and action mechanism of a novel circRNA, circ_0084927, in cervical cancer.

Methods

The expression of circ_0084927, miR-142-3p and ADP-ribosylation factor-like protein 2 (ARL2) mRNA was measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). For functional analyses, cell proliferation was assessed using cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Cell cycle distribution was monitored by flow cytometry assay. Cell migration and cell invasion were evaluated by transwell assay. The interaction between miR-142-3p and circ_0084927 or ARL2 was predicted by the bioinformatics analysis and validated by dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation assay (RIP) assay. The expression of ARL2 at the protein level was detected by Western blot. Animal tumor formation assay was performed to monitor the tumorigenicity of circ_0084927 in vivo.

Results

The expression of circ_0084927 and ARL2 was enhanced in cervical cancer tissues and cells, while the expression of miR-142-3p was opposite to them. Circ_0084927 knockdown significantly blocked cervical cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion and induced cell cycle arrest. MiR-142-3p was targeted by circ_0084927, and miR-142-3p inhibition reversed the effects of circ_0084927 knockdown. Besides, miR-142-3p bound to ARL2, and the inhibitory effects of miR-142-3p restoration on cell proliferation, cycle, migration and invasion were counteracted by ARL2 overexpression. More importantly, circ_0084927 upregulated ARL2 expression by sponging miR-142-3p. Circ_0084927 knockdown retarded tumor growth in vivo by regulating miR-142-3p and ARL2.

Conclusion

Circ_0084927 accelerated the progression of cervical cancer partly by mediating the miR-142-3p/ARL2 axis.

Long non-coding RNA SNHG3, induced by IL-6/STAT3 transactivation, promotes stem cell-like properties of gastric cancer cells by regulating the miR-3619-5p/ARL2 axis

BACKGROUND

Chemotherapy is, next to surgery and radiotherapy, the mainstay regimen for the clinical management of gastric cancer. This therapy is, however, heavily compromised by the acquisition of resistance. Here, we aimed to clarify the potential involvement of long non-coding RNA SNGH3 in the acquisition of cisplatin resistance and stemness in gastric cancer.

METHODS

Cell viability and proliferation were measured using Cell Counting Kit-8 and colony formation assays, respectively. Stem cell-like cell growth was evaluated using a mammosphere formation assay. RNA levels of SNHG2, OCT-4, SOX-2, CD44, miR-3619-5p and ARL2 were determined using qRT-PCR, whereas protein levels of OCT-4, SOX-2, CD44, ARL2, STAT3 and pSTAT3 were determined using Western blotting. Dual luciferase reporter assays were employed to interrogate regulatory interactions between STAT3, SNHG3, miR-3619-5p and ARL2, respectively. Direct binding of STAT3 to the SNHG3 promoter was investigated using a chromatin immunoprecipitation assay.

RESULTS

We found that IL-6 triggered stem cell-like properties in cisplatin-treated gastric cancer cells and activated STAT3, which in turn transcriptionally regulated SNHG3 expression. SNHG3 expression up-regulation positively correlated with cisplatin resistance and stemness of gastric cancer cells, while SNHG3 down-regulation inhibited stem cell-like properties. In addition, we found that SNHG3 up-regulated ARL2 expression through sponging miR-3619-5p, which predominantly mediated the oncogenic properties of SNHG3 in this disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data indicate an involvement of aberrant SNHG3 over-expression in the acquisition of both cisplatin resistance and stemness of gastric cancer cells, and of the IL-6/STAT3/SNHG3/miR-3619-5p/ARL2 signaling cascade in the oncogenic properties of SNHG3.

MicroRNA-214-3p inhibits the stem-like properties of lung squamous cell cancer by targeting YAP1

Background

Emerging evidence reveals that microRNAs (miRNAs) play a crucial role in tumor progression, but the underlying mechanism of microRNAs in lung squamous cell cancer (LSCC) remains unclear.

Method

Western-blotting and quantitative real-time PCR (q-PCR) were carried out to detect mRNA and protein expression. Cell proliferation was evaluated by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), colony-forming assay or sphere-forming assay, respectively.

Results

MiR-214-3p was markedly de-regulated in LSCC tissues and was inversely related to the level of Yes-associated protein1 (YAP1), which is the core transcription regulator of the Hippo signaling pathway. Kaplan–Meier survival curves illustrated that patients with high miR-214-3p expression demonstrated more favorable clinical outcomes. MiR-214-3p overexpression (OE) repressed proliferation and cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) properties in vitro and in vivo xenograft mouse model. Mechanistically, luciferase activity assay revealed that miR-214-3p directly targets YAP1 by specifically binding on the 3′ UTR of YAP1.

Conclusion

MiR-214-3p plays a pivotal role in CSCs properties by targeting YAP1, which provides a potential treatment strategy for LSCC patients.

GAS6-AS2 Promotes Hepatocellular Carcinoma via miR-3619-5p/ARL2 Axis Under Insufficient Radiofrequency Ablation Condition

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common malignancy worldwide. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is applied for treating HCC; however, insufficient RFA promotes HCC development and accelerates HCC recurrence. Therefore, the molecular functions underlying this process have gradually attracted attention. Aim of the study: We sought to examine whether GAS6-AS2 (also known as GAS6-DT: growth arrest specific 6 divergent transcript) played a role in the development of HCC after insufficient RFA. Methods: The in vitro model was established by heating Huh7 and MHCC97 cells in water bath at 47°C, named as Huh7-H and MHCC97-H. Colony formation, transwell and western blot assays were conducted for functional analysis. Results: GAS6-AS2 was upregulated in Huh7-H and MHCC97-H cells relative to Huh7 and MHCC97 cells. GAS6-AS2 deficiency hampered cell proliferation, migration, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and stemness in Huh7-H and MHCC97-H cells. Moreover, microRNA-3619-5p (miR-3619-5p) combined with GAS6-AS2 and ARL2 (ADP ribosylation factor-like GTPase 2) was the target gene of miR-3619-5p. GAS6-AS2 served as the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) of ARL2 via absorbing miR-3619-5p. Conclusion: On the whole, present study uncovered a novel ceRNA mechanism of GAS6-AS2/miR-3619-5p/ARL2 in HCC after insufficient RFA, which might shed a new insight into treatment of HCC after insufficient RFA.

The roles of microRNA in human cervical cancer

Although a potentially preventable disease, cervical cancer (CC) is the second most commonly diagnosed gynaecological cancer with at least 530,000 new cases annually, and the prognosis with CC is still poor. Studies suggest that aberrant expression of microRNA (miRNA) contributes to the progression of CC. As a group of small non-coding RNA with 18-25 nucleotides, miRNA regulate about one-third of all human genes. They function by repressing translation or inducing mRNA cleavage or degradation, including genes involved in diverse and important cellular processes, including cell cycling, proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Results showed that misexpression of miRNA is closely related to the onset and progression of CC. This review will provide an overview of the function of miRNA in CC and the mechanisms involved in cervical carcinogenesis.

Suppressed microRNA-195-5p expression in mycosis fungoides promotes tumor cell proliferation

BACKGROUND

Several cancers, including mycosis fungoides (MF), have reported dysregulation of miR-195-5p. miR-195-5p plays a role in cell cycle regulation in several malignant diseases.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to investigate: (a) the expression level of miR-195-5p in lesional MF skin biopsies and (b) the potential regulatory roles of miR-195-5p in MF.

METHODS

Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to determine miR-195-5p expression in MF skin biopsies and cell lines. The effect of miR-195-5p and ADP-ribosylation factor-like protein 2 (ARL2) on cell cycle and apoptosis was measured by flow cytometry assays. Changes in ARL2 expression were determined by RT-qPCR and Western blotting (WB).

RESULTS

We found lower expression levels of miR-195-5p in lesional skin from MF patients compared with non-lesional MF skin and skin from healthy volunteers. Additionally, miR-195-5p showed lower expression levels in the skin from patients with disease progression compared with patients with stable disease. In vitro studies showed that overexpression of miR-195-5p induced a cell cycle arrest in G0G1. Using microarray analysis, we identified several genes that were regulated after miR-195-5p overexpression. The most downregulated gene after miR-195-5p mimic transfection was ARL2. RT-qPCR and WB analyses confirmed downregulation of ARL2 following transfection with miR-195-5p mimic. Lastly, transfection with siRNA against ARL2 also induced a G0G1 arrest.

CONCLUSION

Upregulation of miR-195-5p in MF inhibits cycle arrest by downregulation of ARL2. miR-195-5p may thus function as a tumor suppressor in MF and low miR-195-5p expression in lesional MF skin may promote disease progression.

LINC00641 hinders the progression of cervical cancer by targeting miR-378a-3p/CPEB3

BACKGROUND

LINC00641 was found to act in anti-tumor manner in several types of cancers. Nonetheless, the detailed functions of LINC00641 have not been determined in cervical cancer (CC).

METHODS

The expression of LINC00641, miR-378a-3p and CPEB3 was examined using a quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. The relationships between LINC00641 and its downstream mechanism were illustrated by RNA pull-down and luciferase reporter experiments.

RESULTS

LINC00641 was found to be under-expressed in CC cell lines. By overexpressing LINC00641, cell proliferative, migratory and invasive abilities, as well as epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) characteristics, were inhibited, whereas the rate of apoptosis was increased. Next, a starBase search (http://starbase.sysu.edu.cn) was applied to select microRNAs that had binding sequences with LINC00641. By up-regulating LINC00641 expression, miR-378a-3p expression displayed the strongest decline. Moreover, miR-378a-3p was found to be up-regulated in CC cell lines. In addition, LINC00641 hindered the progression of CC by decreasing miR-378a-3p expression. CPEB3 was discovered as a downstream target of miR-378a-3p and was under-expressed in CC cells. Furthermore, knockdown of CPEB3 could counter the influence of an overexpression of LINC00641 with respect to CC progression.

CONCLUSIONS

LINC00641 suppressed the progression of CC by targeting miR-378a-3p/CPEB3, suggesting that LINC00641 may have positive therapeutic impact for treatment for CC.

The Role of ARF Family Proteins and Their Regulators and Effectors in Cancer Progression: A Therapeutic Perspective

The Adenosine diphosphate-Ribosylation Factor (ARF) family belongs to the RAS superfamily of small GTPases and is involved in a wide variety of physiological processes, such as cell proliferation, motility and differentiation by regulating membrane traffic and associating with the cytoskeleton. Like other members of the RAS superfamily, ARF family proteins are activated by Guanine nucleotide Exchange Factors (GEFs) and inactivated by GTPase-Activating Proteins (GAPs). When active, they bind effectors, which mediate downstream functions. Several studies have reported that cancer cells are able to subvert membrane traffic regulators to enhance migration and invasion. Indeed, members of the ARF family, including ARF-Like (ARL) proteins have been implicated in tumorigenesis and progression of several types of cancer. Here, we review the role of ARF family members, their GEFs/GAPs and effectors in tumorigenesis and cancer progression, highlighting the ones that can have a pro-oncogenic behavior or function as tumor suppressors. Moreover, we propose possible mechanisms and approaches to target these proteins, toward the development of novel therapeutic strategies to impair tumor progression.

Non-coding RNA LOXL1-AS1 exhibits oncogenic activity in ovarian cancer via regulation of miR-18b-5p/VMA21 axis

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) exert critical effects in the process of malignant cancers and lncRNA LOXL1 Antisense RNA 1 (LOXL1-AS1) has been demonstrated to be a pro-oncogene in multiple tumor types. In the current study, we illuminated the precise roles of LOXL1-AS1 in the development of ovarian cancer. LOXL1-AS1 is significantly overexpressed in ovarian carcinoma tissue compared with adjacent non-cancerous sample. The luciferase reporter gene assay reveals the relationship between LOXL1-AS1 and miR-18b-5p, miR-18b-5p and its target gene, Vacuolar ATPase Assembly Factor VMA21 (VMA21). Transfection of LOXL1-AS1 siRNA or miR-18b-5p mimics inhibits the growth and aggressive phenotypes of SKOV3 and OVCAR3 cell. Furthermore, miR-18b-5p suppresses ovarian carcinoma cell proliferation and metastasis by targeting VMA21 and LOXL1-AS1 regulates ovarian carcinoma cell growth and metastasis through sponging miR-18b-5p. These findings suggest that lncRNA LOXL1-AS1 promotes ovarian cancer cell growth, migratory and invasiveness via modulating miR-18b-5p/VMA21 axis.

Human Papillomavirus Infections, Cervical Cancer and MicroRNAs: An Overview and Implications for Public Health

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is among the most common sexually transmitted infections in both females and males across the world that generally do not cause symptoms and are characterized by high rates of clearance. Persistent infections due at least to twelve well-recognized High-Risk (HR) or oncogenic genotypes, although less frequent, can occur, leading to diseases and malignancies, principally cervical cancer. Three vaccination strategies are currently available for preventing certain HR HPVs-associated diseases, infections due to HPV6 and HPV11 low-risk types, as well as for providing cross-protection against non-vaccine genotypes. Nevertheless, the limited vaccine coverage hampers reducing the burden of HPV-related diseases globally. For HR HPV types, especially HPV16 and HPV18, the E6 and E7 oncoproteins are needed for cancer development. As for other tumors, even in cervical cancer, non-coding microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in posttranscriptional regulation, resulting in aberrant expression profiles. In this study, we provide a summary of the epidemiological background for HPV occurrence and available immunization programs. In addition, we present an overview of the most relevant evidence of miRNAs deregulation in cervical cancer, underlining that targeting these biomolecules could lead to wide translational perspectives, allowing better diagnosis, prognosis and therapeutics, and with valuable applications in the field of prevention. The literature on this topic is rapidly growing, but advanced investigations are required to achieve more consistent findings on the up-regulated and down-regulated miRNAs in cervical carcinogenesis. Because the expression of miRNAs is heterogeneously reported, it may be valuable to assess factors and risks related to individual susceptibility.

miR-214-3p inhibits epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and metastasis of endometrial cancer cells by targeting TWIST1

BACKGROUND

Substantive studies have described the ectopic microRNAs as a determinant of the pathogenesis of endometrial cancer (EC). miR-214-3p has been reported to be significantly downregulated in EC tissues, and its overexpression has been shown to inhibit the proliferation, migration, and invasion of EC cells. Our study sought to explore the molecular mechanism underlying the inhibitory effect of miR-214-3p on metastasis of EC cells.

METHODS

The expressions of miR-214-3p and TWIST1 in EC tissues and cells were detected by quantitative real-time PCR. Cell migration, invasion, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) were measured by transwell and Western blot analyses, respectively. The interaction between miR-214-3p and TWIST1 was confirmed by luciferase reporter assay. Xenograft tumor assay was performed to verify the role and underlying mechanism of miR-214-3p in EC in vivo.

RESULTS

miR-214-3p was downregulated and TWIST1 was upregulated in EC tissues and cells. miR-214-3p was negatively correlated with TWIST1 expression in EC tissues. Overexpression of miR-214-3p suppressed migration, invasion, and EMT in EC cells. TWIST1 was identified as a target of miR-214-3p in EC cells, and its overexpression significantly restored the inhibitory effects of miR-214-3p on cell migration, invasion, and EMT while its knockdown remarkably abolished miR-214-3p inhibitor-mediated promotion of progression of EC cells. Additionally, addition of miR-214-3p inhibited tumor growth by regulating EMT in vivo.

CONCLUSION

miR-214-3p suppressed the EMT and metastasis of EC cells by targeting TWIST1, providing a novel biomarker for treatment of EC.

MiR-214-3p regulates the viability, invasion, migration and EMT of TNBC cells by targeting ST6GAL1

MiR-214-3p is concerned with the outcomes of various tumors, such as liver cancer, bladder cancer, etc. However, the role and target of miR-214-3p in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is not fully understood. This study took this as the entry point, with a view to find a potential target for TNBC. The expressions of miR-214-3p in TNBC tissues and cell lines were detected, and the effects of miR-214-3p inhibitor on the viability, migration, invasion and epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) of TNBC cells were further analyzed. The potential target of miR-214-3p were predicted and verified, as well as the effects of target silencing on the TNBC cells were also measured. MiR-214-3p was abnormally elevated in both TNBC tissues and cell lines, especially in MDA-MB-468 cells. Low-expression of miR-214-3p restrained the survival, migration, invasion and EMT of TNBC cells. ST6GAL1 was the target gene of miR-214-3p, and its expression level increased with the low-expression of miR-214-3p. ST6GAL1 expression was abnormally reduced in both TNBC tissues and cell lines. The silence of ST6GAL1 promoted the viability, migration, invasion and EMT of TNBC cells, which could be reversed by miR-214-3p inhibitor. The down-regulation of miR-214-3p could suppress the viability, migration, invasion and EMT of TNBC cells though targeting ST6GAL1, which might be a potential target for future treatment of TNBC. Up-regulation of miR-214-3p could promote the EMT of non-TNBC cells.

Plasma expression of miRNA-21, - 214, -34a, and -200a in patients with persistent HPV infection and cervical lesions

Background

To examine differences in the plasma levels of miRNA-21, − 214, −34a, and -200a in patients with persistent high-risk human papillomavirus (hr-HPV) infection or with cervical lesions of different grades.

Methods

Venous blood was collected from 232 individuals to measure the plasma expression levels of miRNA-21, − 214, −34a, and -200a. The subjects included normal controls and patients with persistent hr-HPV infection, CIN1, CIN2, CIN3, or cervical cancer (n = 42, 31, 19, 54, 71, and 15 patients, respectively). Cervical conization specimens were collected from all the women. To ensure the accuracy of histopathology, three consecutive tissue sections with an identical diagnosis were selected, and dissection samples were taken from them for miRNA detection. Eligible cases met the inclusion criteria based on sample observation using the middle slice of sandwich tissue sections from the pathological tissue in accordance with the diagnosis of CIN1, CIN2 and CIN3 in 8, 29, and 26 cases, respectively. The miRNA-21, − 214, −34a, and -200a expression levels in the paraffin-embedded tissue samples were determined. The percentage of patients with a CIN2+ diagnosis at 30–49 years old was significantly different from that of those diagnosed with CIN1. The incidence of CIN2+ patients exposed to passive smoking was significantly different from that of CIN1- patients. The percentage of CIN2+ patients with three pregnancies was significantly different from that of those with CIN1, and the percentage of CIN2+ subjects with ≥4 pregnancies was significantly different from that of CIN1- patients. The number of CIN2+ patients with two or more induced abortions was significantly different from that of patients with CIN1. The percentage of CIN2+ patients who underwent a caesarean section was significantly different from that of patients with CIN. The percentage of CIN2+ patients with first-degree relatives with cancer was significantly different from that of those with CIN1. Among CIN2+ patients, the percentage with a first sexual encounter at ≤20 years old was significantly different from that of those with CIN1. The percentage of CIN2+ patients with ≥2 sexual partners was significantly different from that of CIN1- patients.

Results

The plasma miRNA-214, −34a, and -200a expression levels were decreased in patients with more severe cervical lesions. Plasma miRNA levels in CIN1- patients were significantly different from those in CIN2+ patients. The kappa values for miRNA-21, − 214, −34a and -200a in tissue versus plasma were 0.7122, 0.9998, 0.8986 and 0.7458, respectively. The sensitivity of each biomarker for detecting CIN2 was calculated, and ROC curves of the four miRNA biomarkers were drawn. The AUC of the four plasma miRNAs was greater than 0.5, with the AUC of miRNA-21 being the largest at 0.703. The plasma miRNA expression levels exhibited at least one tie between CIN1 and CIN2. The AUCs for miRNA-21, −34a, −200a and − 214 were 0.613, 0.508, 0.615 and 0.505, respectively.

Conclusions

Changes in plasma miRNA-21, − 214, −34a and -200a levels were associated with cervical lesion severity. The plasma miRNA levels in CIN1- subjects were significantly different from those in CIN2+ subjects. This analysis may help in detection of high-grade cervical lesions.

Roles of Thyroid Hormone-Associated microRNAs Affecting Oxidative Stress in Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Oxidative stress occurs as a result of imbalance between the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant genes in cells, causing damage to lipids, proteins, and DNA. Accumulating damage of cellular components can trigger various diseases, including metabolic syndrome and cancer. Over the past few years, the physiological significance of microRNAs (miRNA) in cancer has been a focus of comprehensive research. In view of the extensive level of miRNA interference in biological processes, the roles of miRNAs in oxidative stress and their relevance in physiological processes have recently become a subject of interest. In-depth research is underway to specifically address the direct or indirect relationships of oxidative stress-induced miRNAs in liver cancer and the potential involvement of the thyroid hormone in these processes. While studies on thyroid hormone in liver cancer are abundantly documented, no conclusive information on the potential relationships among thyroid hormone, specific miRNAs, and oxidative stress in liver cancer is available. In this review, we discuss the effects of thyroid hormone on oxidative stress-related miRNAs that potentially have a positive or negative impact on liver cancer. Additionally, supporting evidence from clinical and animal experiments is provided.

miR-214 down-regulates MKK3 and suppresses malignant phenotypes of cervical cancer cells

miRNA mediated genetic regulation is widely involved in carcinogenesis of cervical cancer. In this study, miR-214 was confirmed to directly regulate MKK3 via imperfect base-pairing to its 3'UTR, resulting down-regulation of its expression level. Compared to normal tissues, a down-regulated level of miR-214 was observed in cervical cancer, while MKK3 was up-regulated. Next, we demonstrated that over-expression of miR-214 or knockdown of MKK3 can inhibit the growth, proliferation, invasion and migration of cervical cancer in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, the effects of miR-214 in HeLa cells were rescued by the restoration of MKK3. In conclusion, our results laid new foundations for investigating the pathogenesis and diagnosis of cervical cancer.

Long non-coding RNA LINC01535 promotes cervical cancer progression via targeting the miR-214/EZH2 feedback loop

Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have shown critical roles in multiple cancers via competitively binding common microRNAs. miR‐214 has been proved to play tumour suppressive roles in various cancers, including cervical cancer. In this study, we identified that lncRNA LINC01535 physically binds miR‐214, relieves the repressive roles of miR‐214 on its target EZH2, and therefore up‐regulates EZH2 protein expression. Intriguingly, we also found that EZH2 directly represses the expression of miR‐214. Thus, miR‐214 and EZH2 form double negative regulatory loop. Through up‐regulating EZH2, LINC01535 further represses miR‐214 expression. Functional experiments showed that enhanced expression of LINC01535 promotes cervical cancer cell growth, migration and invasion in vitro and cervical cancer xenograft growth in vivo. Reciprocally, LINC01535 knockdown suppresses cervical cancer cell growth, migration and invasion. Activation of the miR‐214/EZH2 regulatory loop by overexpression of miR‐214 or silencing of EZH2 reverses the roles of LINC01535 in promoting cervical canc`er cell growth, migration and invasion in vitro and cervical cancer xenograft growth in vivo. Clinically, LINC01535 is significantly up‐regulated in cervical cancer tissues and correlated with advanced clinical stage and poor prognosis. Moreover, the expression of LINC01535 is reversely associated with the expression of miR‐214 and positively associated with the expression of EZH2 in cervical cancer tissues. In conclusion, this study reveals that LINC01535 promotes cervical cancer progression via repressing the miR‐214/EZH2 regulatory loop.

Knockdown of differentiation antagonizing non-protein coding RNA exerts anti-tumor effect by up-regulating miR-214 in endometrial carcinoma

Differentiation antagonizing non-protein coding RNA (DANCR) is a valuable long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) that involves in the progress of various cancers. However, the functions of DANCR in endometrial carcinoma (EC) have not been validated. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the roles of DANCR in EC and explore the underlying mechanism. Expression patterns of DANCR in EC specimens and normal control specimens were determined using qRT-PCR. DANCR was knocked down in EC cell lines (AN3CA and HEC-1B) through transfection with small interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting DANCR (si-DANCR). Cell proliferation was examined using the cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Cell apoptosis was measured by flow cytometry. Online software starBase was used to predict the target gene of DANCR. Luciferase reporter assay was carried out to confirm the association between DANCR and the predicted target microRNA (miRNA). DANCR expression was up-regulated in EC tissues as compared to the normal control tissues. Knockdown of DANCR in AN3CA and HEC-1B cells markedly suppressed cell proliferation and induced cell apoptosis. miR-214 was found to be a target miRNA of DANCR and its expression was significantly decreased in EC tissues. Suppression of miR-214 abolished the effects of si-DANCR on cell proliferation and apoptosis in AN3CA and HEC-1B cells. DANCR played an important role in promoting tumorigenesis of EC via sponging miR-214. DANCR might serve as a therapeutic target for the treatment of EC.

MicroRNA‑214 upregulates HIF‑1α and VEGF by targeting ING4 in lung cancer cells

Previous reports have indicated a potential link between microRNA (miR)‑214 and hypoxia. In the present study, the biological functions and potential mechanisms of miR‑214 were determined, as well as its correlation with HIF‑1α signaling in non‑small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction revealed that miR‑214 expression was upregulated in lung cancer tissues compared with adjacent normal tissues. miR‑214 mimics were transfected into A549 cells, and MTT, colony formation, invasion and wound healing assays were performed. It was demonstrated that miR‑214 mimic transfection promoted the invasion, proliferation and migration of A549 cells. Furthermore, miR‑214 inhibitor transfection decreased H1299 cell invasion, proliferation and migration. Next, the association between miR‑214 expression and the HIF‑1α signaling cascade was examined. It was demonstrated that miR‑214 mimics upregulated the expression of hypoxia‑inducible factor (HIF)‑1α, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), adenylate kinase 3 and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)2, whereas miR‑214 inhibitor downregulated the expression of these factors. Using prediction software, it was demonstrated that tumor suppressor ING4 was a target of miR‑214. A luciferase reporter assay confirmed that ING4 was a direct target of miR‑214. There was a negative correlation between ING4 and miR‑214 expression in lung cancer tissues. In addition, ING4 siRNA and plasmid was transfected into cells in order to validate its effect on HIF‑1α, MMP2 and VEGF expression. ING4 overexpression downregulated HIF‑1α and its targets MMP2 and VEGF, while ING4 siRNA upregulated HIF‑1α, MMP2 and VEGF. In conclusion, it was demonstrated that miR‑214 targeted ING4 in lung cancer cells, and upregulated the HIF‑1α cascade, leading to MMP2 and VEGF upregulation. This approach may help to clarify the role of miRNA in non‑small lung cancer and may be a new therapeutic target for non‑small lung cancer.

microRNAs: New prognostic, diagnostic, and therapeutic biomarkers in cervical cancer

Cervical cancer is as a kind of cancer beginning from the cervix. Given that cervical cancer could be observed in women who infected with papillomavirus, regular oral contraceptives, and multiple pregnancies. Early detection of cervical cancer is one of the most important aspects of the therapy of this malignancy. Despite several efforts, finding and developing new biomarkers for cervical cancer diagnosis are required. Among various prognostic, diagnostic, and therapeutic biomarkers, miRNA have been emerged as powerful biomarkers for detection, treatment, and monitoring of response to therapy in cervical cancer. Here, we summarized various miRNAs as an employable platform for prognostic, diagnostic, and therapeutic biomarkers in the treatment of cervical cancer.

The role of miRNAs in the invasion and metastasis of cervical cancer

Cervical cancer (CC) with early metastasis of the primary tumor results in poor prognosis and poor therapeutic outcomes. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, noncoding RNA molecules that play a substantial role in regulating gene expression post-transcriptionally and influence the development and progression of tumors. Numerous studies have discovered that miRNAs play significant roles in the invasion and metastasis of CC by affecting specific pathways, including Notch, Wnt/β-catenin, and phosphoinositide-3 kinase (PI3K)-Akt pathways. miRNAs also effectively modulate the process of epithelial–mesenchymal transition. Many studies provide new insights into the role of miRNAs and the pathogenesis of metastatic CC. In this review, we will offer an overview and update of our present understanding of the potential roles of miRNAs in metastatic CC.

Circular RNA Ttc3 regulates cardiac function after myocardial infarction by sponging miR-15b

The apoptotic death of cardiomyocytes critically contributes to cardiac remodeling after myocardial infarction (MI). Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are important regulators for a variety of biological functions. Circ-Ttc3 represents one of the top highest expressed circRNAs in the heart; however, its role in MI remains unknown. Herein, we found that circ-Ttc3 was markedly upregulated in the ischemic myocardium and the cardiomyocytes subjected to hypoxic insult. Forced expression of circ-Ttc3 in cardiomyocytes counteracted hypoxia-induced ATP depletion and apoptotic death, in sharp contrast to circ-Ttc3 knockdown. Accordingly, experiments with AAV9-cTnt-mediated knockdown of cardiac circ-Ttc3 in a rat model of MI recapitulated the in vitro findings, and showed the deterioration of cardiac dysfunction after MI. Furthermore, we identified that circ-Ttc3 sponged an endogenous miR-15b-5p to sequester and inhibit its activity, leading to the increased Arl2 expression. Conversely, knockdown of Arl2 partially abolished the beneficial effects of circ-Ttc3 overexpression on ATP production and apoptosis of cardiomyocytes. Thus, our findings revealed the cardioprotective role of circ-Ttc3 in MI. The miR-15b-Arl2 regulatory cascade underlies the protection against MI-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis by circ-Ttc3.

Exosomal miR-214-5p Released from Glioblastoma Cells Modulates Inflammatory Response of Microglia after Lipopolysaccharide Stimulation through Targeting CXCR5

Methods:

The relative expression of miR-214-5p was determined by real-time PCR. Cell viability and migration were measured by MTT and transwell chamber assays, respectively. The secretory cytokines were measured with ELISA kits. The regulatory effect of miR-214-5p on CXCR5 expression was interrogated by luciferase reporter assay. Protein level was analyzed by Western blot.

Results:

We demonstrated that miR-214-5p was aberrantly overexpressed in GBM and associated with poorer clinical prognosis. High level of miR-214-5p significantly contributed to cell proliferation and migration. GBM-derived exosomal miR-214-5p promoted inflammatory response in primary microglia upon lipopolysaccharide challenge. We further identified CXCR5 as the direct target of miR-214- 5p in this setting.

Conclusion:

Overexpression of miR-214-5p in GBM modulated the inflammatory response in microglia via exosomal transfer.

miR-214 regulates papillary thyroid carcinoma cell proliferation and metastasis by targeting PSMD10

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have important effects on cancer occurrence and development by adjusting gene expression. The aim of the present study was to examine the role of miR-214 in papillary thyroid carcinoma cell proliferation and metastasis, and its molecular mechanisms. miR-214 was demonstrated to be markedly downregulated in papillary thyroid carcinoma tissues and cells compared with normal, and this was significantly associated with lymph node metastasis, tumor size and TNM stage. Upregulation of miR-214 significantly decreased cell proliferation, and promoted cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in papillary thyroid carcinoma cell lines in vitro. By contrast, downregulation of miR-214 resulted in the opposite effects. In addition, miR-214 mimics significantly decreased papillary thyroid carcinoma cell migration and invasion, which was correlated with decreased expression levels of matrix metallopeptidase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9. Restoration of miR-214 expression in papillary thyroid carcinoma cells decreased the activities associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Furthermore, proteasome 26S subunit non-ATPase 10 (PSMD10) was predicted to be a target of miR-214. Experimental results demonstrated that miR-214 negatively regulated PSMD10 expression by targeting its 3′ untranslated region directly. Knockdown of PSMD10 reduced papillary thyroid carcinoma cell clone formation, migration and invasion, most likely by repressing glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3β/β-catenin and AKT signaling. Finally, a negative correlation was observed between the expression levels of miR-214 and PSMD10 in papillary thyroid carcinoma tissues. Taken together, these data suggested that miR-214 might be a candidate target for the treatment of papillary thyroid carcinoma.

microRNA-214 suppresses the growth of cervical cancer cells by targeting EZH2

A number of studies have revealed the significance of microRNAs (miRs) in tumorigenesis. Cervical cancer (CC) is one of the most malignant cancer types and is associated with a poor overall survival rate. A previous study demonstrated a critical role of miR-214 in the development of multiple cancer types, but its role in CC remains elusive. In the current study, miR-214 was observed to be downregulated in CC tissues compared with the adjacent non-cancerous tissue. Overexpression of miR-214 reduced the proliferation of CC cells, whereas inhibiting its expression resulted in enhanced proliferation. Furthermore, Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) was demonstrated to be a direct target of miR-214 in CC. An MTT assay demonstrated that upregulating miR-214 expression or knocking down the expression of EZH2 impaired the proliferation of a CC cell line. Low expression of miR-214 was positively associated with tumor differentiation (P=0.037) and tumor stage (P=0.012). Notably, low expression of miR-214 predicted poor prognosis of patients with CC. Consequently, the results of the current study demonstrated that miR-214 functions as a tumor suppressor in CC and may be regarded as a potential therapeutic target in CC.

ARL2 overexpression inhibits glioma proliferation and tumorigenicity via down-regulating AXL

BACKGROUND

Glioma is the most common primary brain tumor in adults with a poor prognosis. As a member of ARF subfamily GTPase, ARL2 plays a key role in regulating the dynamics of microtubules and mitochondrial functions. Recently, ARL2 has been identified as a prognostic and therapeutic target in a variety range of malignant tumors. However, the biological functional role of ARL2 in glioma still remains unknown. The aim of this study was to explore the expression and functional role of ARL2 in glioma.

METHODS

In this study, we investigated the expression of ARL2 in glioma samples by using RT-PCR, immunohistochemistry and western blot. The correlation between ARL2 expression and the outcomes of glioma patients was evaluated with survival data from TCGA, CGGA and Rembrandt dataset. Lentiviral technique was used for ARL2 overexpression in U87 and U251 cells. CCK8 assay, colony formation assay, wound healing test, transwell invasion assay and in vivo subcutaneous xenograft model were performed to investigated the biological functions of ARL2.

RESULTS

ARL2 expression was down-regulated in glioma, and was inversely associated with poor prognosis in glioma patients. Furthermore, exogenous ARL2 overexpression attenuated the growth and colony-formation abilities of glioma cells, as well as their migration and invasive capabilities. Moreover, elevated expression of ARL2 inhibited in vivo tumorigenicity of glioma cells. Mechanistically, ARL2 regulated AXL expression, which was known as an important functional regulator of proliferation and tumorigenicity in glioma cells.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests that ARL2 inhibits the proliferation, migration and tumorigenicity of glioma cells by regulating the expression of AXL and may conduct as a new prognostic and therapeutic target for glioma.

Targeting epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity in cancer: clinical and preclinical advances in therapy and monitoring

The concept of epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity (EMP), which describes the dynamic flux within the spectrum of phenotypic states that invasive carcinoma cells may reside, is being increasingly recognised for its role in cancer progression and therapy resistance. The myriad of events that are able to induce EMP, as well as the more recently characterised control loops, results in dynamic transitions of cancerous epithelial cells to more mesenchymal-like phenotypes through an epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), as well as the reverse transition from mesenchymal phenotypes to an epithelial one. The significance of EMP, in its ability to drive local invasion, generate cancer stem cells and facilitate metastasis by the dissemination of circulating tumour cells (CTCs), highlights its importance as a targetable programme to combat cancer morbidity and mortality. The focus of this review is to consolidate the existing knowledge on the strategies currently in development to combat cancer progression via inhibition of specific facets of EMP. The prevalence of relapse due to therapy resistance and metastatic propensity that EMP endows should be considered when designing therapy regimes, and such therapies should synergise with existing chemotherapeutics to benefit efficacy. To further improve upon EMP-targeted therapies, it is imperative to devise monitoring strategies to assess the impact of such treatments on EMP-related phenomenon such as CTC burden, chemosensitivity/-resistance and micrometastasis in patients.

miR-199a-3p and miR-214-3p improve the overall survival prediction of muscle-invasive bladder cancer patients after radical cystectomy

To improve the clinical decision‐making regarding further treatment management and follow‐up scheduling for patients with muscle‐invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) after radical cystectomy (RC), a better prediction accuracy of prognosis for these patients is urgently needed. The objective of this study was to evaluate the validity of differentially expressed microRNAs (miRNAs) based on a previous study as prognostic markers for overall survival (OS) after RC in models combined with clinicopathological data. The expression of six miRNAs (miR‐100‐5p, miR‐130b‐3p, miR‐141‐3p, miR‐199a‐3p, miR‐205‐5p, and miR‐214‐3p) was measured by RT‐qPCR in formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded tissue samples from 156 MIBC patients who received RC in three urological centers. Samples from 2000 to 2013 were used according to their tissue availability, with follow‐up until June 2016. The patient cohort was randomly divided into a training (n = 100) and test set (n = 56). Seventy‐three samples from adjacent normal tissue were used as controls. Kaplan–Meier, univariate and multivariate Cox regression, and decision curve analyses were carried out to assess the association of clinicopathological variables and miRNAs to OS. Both increased (miR‐130b‐3p and miR‐141‐3p) and reduced (miR‐100‐5p, miR‐199a‐3p, and miR‐214‐3p) miRNA expressions were found in MIBC samples in comparison to nonmalignant tissue samples (P < 0.0001). miR‐199a‐3p and miR‐214‐3p were independent markers of OS in Cox regression models with the significant clinicopathological variables age, tumor status, and lymph node status. The prediction model with the clinicopathological variables was improved by these two miRNAs in both sets. The predictive benefit was confirmed by decision curve analysis. In conclusion, the inclusion of both miRNAs into models based on clinical data for the outcome prediction of MIBC patients after RC could be a valuable approach to improve prognostic accuracy.

The inhibitory effect of MEG3/miR-214/AIFM2 axis on the growth of T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma

T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma (T-LBL) is an aggressive malignancy with poor prognosis and high recurrence rate. Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA)-MEG3 is an important tumor suppressor in various cancers. The present study investigated the potential role of maternally expressed gene 3 (MEG3) in the progression of T-LBL. Suppressed expression of MEG3 was detected in T-LBL tissues compared with adjacent histologically normal tissues. Down-regulated level of MEG3 was also found in three T-LBL cell lines (CCRF-CEM, Jurkat and SUP-T1) compared with human T-cell line H9. The proliferation of T-LBL cells was inhibited and cell apoptosis rate was largely promoted when MEG3 was upregulated by a lentiviral vector. Further research revealed that microRNA (miRNA)-214 is a direct target of MEG3. The expression of miR-214 was increased in T-LBL tissues and cell lines compared with control groups. Besides, decreased level of miR-214 was elevated adding miR-214 mimic in SUP-T1 cells transfected with LncRNA-MEG3. Similarly, upregulated level of miR-214 was downregulated adding miR-214 inhibitor in SUP-T1 cells transfected with MEG3 siRNA. Luciferase activity assay further confirmed the targeting relationship between MEG3 and miR-214. Moreover, AIFM2 protein was predicted as a target of miR-214. The expression of AIFM2 was increased by MEG3 and was downregulated by miR-214 mimic. miRNA-214 reversed the effect of MEG3 on inhibiting cell proliferation and inducing cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in SUP-T1 cells. Moreover, relative expression of AIFM2 had a positive correlation with the expression of MEG3 and was negatively affected by miR-214. In vivo, MEG3 effectively suppressed tumor growth and the expression of proliferation markers Ki-67 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). Taken together, our research revealed that MEG3 worked as an anti-oncogene in T-LBL, and the MEG3-miR-214-AIFM2 pathway regulated the growth of T-LBL, providing potential prognosis markers as well as new potential targets for T-LBL treatment.

HNF1A‑AS1 promotes growth and metastasis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma by sponging miR‑214 to upregulate the expression of SOX-4

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the most common malignancies in the world, marked by dysphagia and weight loss, bringing great suffering to patients. HNF1A‑AS1 (HAS1), a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), has been identified prevalently involved in various human cancers. However, the exact effects and molecular mechanisms of HAS1 in ESCC progression are still elusive. In this study, upregulated expression of HAS1 was detected in ESCC tissues and four human ESCC cell lines (KYSE70, KYSE450, EC109 and EC970) compared with normal tissues and cell lines. Small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated knockdown of HAS1 largely suppressed cell proliferation and promoted cell apoptosis in KYSE70 and EC109 cells. The decreased expression of proliferation marker proteins and elevated level of apoptosis marker proteins further verified that HAS1‑siRNA suppressed cell viability in ESCC cells. Besides, the silence of HAS1 strongly reduced the wound closing rate and the number of invasive cells compared with control group. HAS1-siRNA also restrained the expression of migration marker proteins matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF). In addition, miR‑214 was predicted as a direct target of HAS1 by bioinformatics analysis. Downregulated expression of miR‑214 was elevated in KYSE70 and EC109 cells transfected with HAS1-siRNA. Subsequently, elevated expression of miR‑214 was suppressed by co-transfecting with miR‑214 inhibitor in EC109 cells pretreated with HAS1-siRNA. The result of luciferase activity assay showed that luciferase activity was strongly weakened by the combination of LncR-HAS1 WT and miR‑214 mimic. Moreover, the expression of SOX-4, a predicted target gene of miR‑214, was suppressed by HAS1-siRNA and was increased by miR‑214 inhibitor. HAS1-siRNA counteracted the effect of miR‑214 inhibitor on cell viability and mobility in EC109 cells. Finally, the in vivo experiment revealed that HAS1-siRNA abated the role of miR‑214 inhibitor in promoting tumor growth and metastasis. miR-214 also mediated the effect of HAS1 on upregulating the expression of SOX-4 in vivo. Taken together, our study indicated a HAS1-miR‑214-SOX-4 pathway in regulating the growth and metastasis of ESCC, providing a promising target for ESCC therapy.