Long non-coding RNA XIST regulates miR-106b-5p/P21 axis to suppress tumor progression in renal cell carcinoma

The Association Between Anti-Neoplastic Effects of Curcumin and Urogenital Cancers: A Systematic Review

Background: Curcumin is a polyphenol compound with anticancer effects. We aimed to review the anti-neoplastic effects of curcumin on urogenital cancers, by regulating different microRNA expressions. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in Medline (PubMed), Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science up to the end of August 2024. All English, in vitro, and observational studies that evaluated the effect of curcumin on preventing or treating urogenital cancers through its impact on microRNA expression were included. In vivo or silico studies were excluded. Result: A total of 2549 records were found. Finally, 25 studies were included. Twelve studies assessed the effect of curcumin on prostate cancer, six studies on ovarian cancer, three studies on cervical cancer, three studies on bladder cancer, and one study on renal cancer. MicroRNAs are small noncoding RNAs that regulate the post-transcriptional pathways. They possess pivotal roles in different fundamental mechanisms in cells such as differentiation, migration, apoptosis, and proliferation. Curcumin exerts its anticancer effects on urogenital neoplasms by upregulating tumor suppressor microRNAs (miR-143, miR-145, miR-Let-7, miR-101, miR-3127, miR-3178, miR-1275, miR-3198, miR-1908, miR-770, miR-1247, miR-411, miR-34a, miR-383, miR-708, miR-483, miR-199a, miR-335, miR-503, miR-10b, miR-551a, miR-9, miR-203, miR-7110, miR-29b, and miR-126) and downregulating oncogenic microRNAs (miR-21, miR-210, miR-382, miR-654, miR-494, miR-193b, miR-671, miR-222, miR-23b, miR-664, miR-183, miR-214, miR-320a, miR-23a, miR-30a, miR-320d, miR-1285, miR-32, miR-181a, miR-205, miR-216a, miR-1246, and miR-106b). Conclusion: Cell proliferation is inhibited, and cell apoptosis is induced by curcumin in different urogenital cancers through suppressing oncogenic microRNAs or provoking tumor suppressor microRNAs.

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.

Exosomes in renal cell carcinoma: challenges and opportunities

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most common type of kidney cancer that accounts for approximately 2-3% of adult malignancies. Among the primary treatment methods for this type of cancer are surgery and targeted treatment. Still, due to less than optimal effectiveness, there are problems such as advanced distant metastasis, delayed diagnosis, and drug resistance that continue to plague patients. In recent years, therapeutic advances have increased life expectancy and effective treatment in renal cell carcinoma patients. One of these methods is the use of stem cells. Although the therapeutic effects of stem cells, especially mesenchymal stem cells, are still impressive, today, extracellular vesicles (EVs) as carrying molecules and various mediators in intercellular communications, having a central role in tumorigenesis, metastasis, immune evasion, and drug response, and on the other hand, due to its low immunogenicity and strong regulatory properties of the immune system, has received much attention from researchers and doctors. Despite the increasing interest in exosomes as the most versatile type of EVs, the heterogeneity of their efficacy presents challenges and, on the other hand, exciting opportunities for diagnostic and clinical interventions.In the upcoming article, we will review the various aspects of exosomes' effects in the prevention, treatment, and progress of renal cell carcinoma and also ways to optimize them to strengthen their positive sides.

Long noncoding RNA: An emerging diagnostic and therapeutic target in kidney diseases

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have critical roles in the development of many diseases including kidney disease. An increasing number of studies have shown that lncRNAs are involved in kidney development and that their dysregulation can result in distinct disease processes, including acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, and renal cell carcinoma. Understanding the roles of lncRNAs in kidney disease may provide new diagnostic and therapeutic opportunities in the clinic. This review provides an overview of lncRNA characteristics, and biological function and discusses specific studies that provide insight into the function and potential application of lncRNAs in kidney disease treatment.

Noncoding RNA as an influential epigenetic modulator with promising roles in cancer therapeutics

The epigenetic landscape has an important role in cellular homeostasis and its deregulation leads to cancer. Noncoding (nc)RNA networks function as major regulators of cellular epigenetic hallmarks via regulation of vital processes, such as histone modification and DNA methylation. They are integral intracellular components affecting multiple oncogenic pathways. Thus, it is important to elucidate the effects of ncRNA networks on epigenetic programming that lead to the initiation and progression of cancer. In this review, we summarize the effects of epigenetic modification influenced by ncRNA networks and crosstalk between diverse classes of ncRNA, which could aid the development of patient-specific cancer therapeutics targeting ncRNAs, thereby altering cellular epigenetics.

Potential roles of lncRNA-XIST/miRNAs/mRNAs in human cancer cells

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are non-coding RNAs that contain more than 200 nucleotides but do not code for proteins. In tumorigenesis, lncRNAs can have both oncogenic and tumor-suppressive properties. X inactive-specific transcript (XIST) is a known lncRNA that has been implicated in X chromosome silencing in female cells. Dysregulation of XIST is associated with an increased risk of various cancers. Therefore, XIST can be a beneficial prognostic biomarker for human malignancies. In this review, we attempt to summarize the emerging roles of XIST in human cancers.

A review on the role of long non-coding RNA and microRNA network in clear cell renal cell carcinoma and its tumor microenvironment

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the second lethal urogenital malignancy with the increasing incidence and mortality in the world. Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is one major subtype of RCC, which accounts for about 70 to 80% of all RCC cases. Although many innovative therapeutic options have emerged during the last few decades, the efficacy of these treatments for ccRCC patients is very limited. To date, the prognosis of patients with advanced or metastatic ccRCC is still poor. The 5-year survival rate of these patients remains less than 10%, which mainly attributes to the complexity and heterogeneity of the tumor microenvironment (TME). It has been demonstrated that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) perform an indispensable role in the initiation and progression of various tumors. They mostly function as sponges for microRNAs (miRNAs) to regulate the expression of target genes, finally influence the growth, metastasis, apoptosis, drug resistance and TME of tumor cells. However, the role of lncRNA/miRNA/mRNA axis in the TME of ccRCC remains poorly understood. In this review, we summarized the biological function of lncRNA/miRNA/mRNA axis in the pathogenesis of ccRCC, then discussed how lncRNA/miRNA/mRNA axis regulate the TME, finally highlighted their potential application as novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for ccRCC.

Contribution of Non-Coding RNAs to Anticancer Effects of Dietary Polyphenols: Chlorogenic Acid, Curcumin, Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate, Genistein, Quercetin and Resveratrol

Growing evidence has been accumulated to show the anticancer effects of daily consumption of polyphenols. These dietary polyphenols include chlorogenic acid, curcumin, epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate, genistein, quercetin, and resveratrol. These polyphenols have similar chemical and biological properties in that they can act as antioxidants and exert the anticancer effects via cell signaling pathways involving their reactive oxygen species (ROS)-scavenging activity. These polyphenols may also act as pro-oxidants under certain conditions, especially at high concentrations. Epigenetic modifications, including dysregulation of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) such as microRNAs, long noncoding RNAs, and circular RNAs are now known to be involved in the anticancer effects of polyphenols. These polyphenols can modulate the expression/activity of the component molecules in ROS-scavenger-triggered anticancer pathways (RSTAPs) by increasing the expression of tumor-suppressive ncRNAs and decreasing the expression of oncogenic ncRNAs in general. Multiple ncRNAs are similarly modulated by multiple polyphenols. Many of the targets of ncRNAs affected by these polyphenols are components of RSTAPs. Therefore, ncRNA modulation may enhance the anticancer effects of polyphenols via RSTAPs in an additive or synergistic manner, although other mechanisms may be operating as well.

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs); roles in tumorigenesis and potentials as biomarkers in cancer diagnosis

New research has indicated that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play critical roles in a broad range of biological processes, including the pathogenesis of many complex human diseases, including cancer. The detailed regulation mechanisms of many lncRNAs in cancer initiation and progression have yet to be discovered, even though a few of lncRNAs' functions in cancer have been characterized. In the present study, we summarize recent advances in the mechanisms and functions of lncRNAs in cancer. We focused on the roles of newly-identified lncRNAs as oncogenes and tumor suppressors, as well as the potential pathways these molecules could play. The paper also discusses their potential uses as biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of cancer.

Long non-coding RNA X-inactive specific transcript suppresses the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma through microRNA-221-3p-targeted regulation of O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase

MicroRNA-221-3p (miR-221-3p) is an important regulator involved in the progression and prognosis of various cancers. In this study, we aimed to investigate the diagnostic and prognostic value of miR-221-3p expression along with long non-coding RNA X–inactive specific transcript (XIST), which was identified as its upstream regulator in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by bioinformatics analysis, and further validated by RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and dual-luciferase reporter assays. Their expression was measured in tumor tissues and corresponding non-tumor tissues by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), which revealed that XIST was weakly expressed in HCC cells and tumors, while miR-221-3p was overexpressed. Complete knockdown of XIST enhanced HCC cell proliferation and migration and inhibited apoptosis, as observed by MTT, transwell, and flow cytometry experiments, respectively. Animal studies validated that XIST knockdown induces tumor growth in vivo. In contrast, upregulation of XIST in HCC cells suppressed their proliferation and migration, stimulated apoptosis, and retarded the growth rate of tumors in vivo. These effects were partially reversed by upregulating miR-221-3p expression. Furthermore, we demonstrated that O⁶-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) is a downstream target of miR-221-3p. It was weakly expressed in HCC cells and tumors and showed a negative correlation with miR-221-3p. Forced MGMT expression repressed proliferation and migration and enhanced apoptosis in HCC cells. Nevertheless, these anti-tumor effects induced by MGMT overexpression could be abolished by miR-221-3p upregulation. Collectively, our findings reveal that XIST blocks the development of HCC through miR-221-3p-targeted regulation of MGMT. This reveals a new mechanism involved in the development of HCC.

XIST in Brain Cancer

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) make up the majority of the human genome. They are a group of small RNA molecules that do not code for any proteins but play a primary role in regulating a variety of physiological and pathological processes. X-inactive specific transcript (XIST), one of the first lncRNAs to be discovered, is chiefly responsible for X chromosome inactivation: an evolutionary process of dosage compensation between the sex chromosomes of males and females. Recent studies show that XIST plays a pathophysiological role in the development and prognosis of brain tumors, a heterogeneous group of neoplasms that cause significant morbidity and mortality. In this review, we explore recent advancements in the role of XIST in migration, proliferation, angiogenesis, chemoresistance, and evasion of apoptosis in different types of brain tumors, with particular emphasis on gliomas.

LncRNA XIST accelerates burn wound healing by promoting M2 macrophage polarization through targeting IL-33 via miR-19b

Burn injuries are a serious threat to quality of life. The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanism of burn wound healing. The lncRNA XIST has been associated with burn wound healing, but the mechanism is not clear. In the present study, in vitro and in vivo models of burn injuries were established by thermal injury treatment of human skin fibroblasts (HSFs) and mice, respectively. Pathological changes in skin tissues were detected by haematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining. Immunofluorescence double staining was performed to detect M2 macrophages. Furthermore, the changes of cell proliferation, apoptosis and migration by CCK-8, flow cytometry, scratch and Transwell assays to evaluate the effect of XIST on burn wound healing. The binding relationships among XIST, miR-19b and IL-33 were analyzed by RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and dual luciferase reporter assays. Our results found that there were targeted binding sites between XIST and miR-19b, miR-19b and IL-33. We investigated whether XIST enhanced the polarization of M2 macrophages to promote the healing of burn wounds. After fibroblast burn injury, the expression levels of XIST and IL-33 increased in a time-dependent manner, whereas miR-19b expression decreased in a time-dependent manner. XIST contributed to the proliferation and migration of skin fibroblasts by inhibiting miR-19b and enhanced fibroblast extracellular matrix production by promoting the transformation of macrophages to the M2 phenotype. In short, these findings indicate that XIST can promote burn wound healing and enhance the polarization of M2 macrophages by targeting the IL-33/miR-19b axis, which may serve as a potential theoretical basis for the treatment of burn wound healing.

Long non-coding RNA Xist contribution in systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis

Growing evidence points towards the role of the long non-coding (lnc)-RNA Xist expressed in female cells as a predominant key actor for the sex bias observed in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Indeed, in female cells, lnc-Xist controls transcription directly by spreading across the inactivated X chromosome (Xi) and indirectly by sequestring miRNAs as a sponge. The inactivation process at Xi is altered in lymphocytes from SLE women and associated with important variations in ribonucleoproteins (RNP) associated with lnc-Xist. In fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) and osteoclasts from RA women, proinflammatory and proliferative pathways are upregulated due to the sequestration effect exerted by lnc-Xist overexpression on miRNAs. The key role played by lnc-Xist in SLE and RA is further supported by it's knock down that recapitulates the SLE B cell extrafollicular profile and controls RA associated FLS proinflammatory cytokine production and proliferation.

The lncRNAs at X Chromosome Inactivation Center: Not Just a Matter of Sex Dosage Compensation

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) constitute the majority of the transcriptome, as the result of pervasive transcription of the mammalian genome. Different RNA species, such as lncRNAs, miRNAs, circRNA, mRNAs, engage in regulatory networks based on their reciprocal interactions, often in a competitive manner, in a way denominated “competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks” (“ceRNET”): miRNAs and other ncRNAs modulate each other, since miRNAs can regulate the expression of lncRNAs, which in turn regulate miRNAs, titrating their availability and thus competing with the binding to other RNA targets. The unbalancing of any network component can derail the entire regulatory circuit acting as a driving force for human diseases, thus assigning “new” functions to “old” molecules. This is the case of XIST, the lncRNA characterized in the early 1990s and well known as the essential molecule for X chromosome inactivation in mammalian females, thus preventing an imbalance of X-linked gene expression between females and males. Currently, literature concerning XIST biology is becoming dominated by miRNA associations and they are also gaining prominence for other lncRNAs produced by the X-inactivation center. This review discusses the available literature to explore possible novel functions related to ceRNA activity of lncRNAs produced by the X-inactivation center, beyond their role in dosage compensation, with prospective implications for emerging gender-biased functions and pathological mechanisms.

Long non-coding RNA XIST: a novel oncogene in multiple cancers

Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) X-inactive specific transcript (XIST) is an important lncRNA derived from the XIST gene in mammals. XIST is abnormally expressed in numerous tumors, in most of which XIST functions as an oncogene. XIST is involved in multiple aspects of carcinogenesis, including tumor onset, progression, and prognosis. In our review, we collected and analyzed the recent studies on the impact of XIST in human tumor development. The multilevel molecular functions of XIST in human tumors are comprehensively reviewed to clarify the pathologic mechanisms and to offer a novel direction for further study.

Targeting long non coding RNA by natural products: Implications for cancer therapy

In spite of achieving substantial progress in its therapeutic strategies, cancer-associated prevalence and mortality are persistently rising globally. However, most malignant cancers either cannot be adequately diagnosed at the primary phase or resist against multiple treatments such as chemotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy as well as targeting therapy. In recent decades, overwhelming evidences have provided more convincing words on the undeniable roles of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in incidence and development of various cancer types. Recently, phytochemical and nutraceutical compounds have received a great deal of attention due to their inhibitory and stimulatory effects on oncogenic and tumor suppressor lncRNAs respectively that finally may lead to attenuate various processes of cancer cells such as growth, proliferation, metastasis and invasion. Therefore, application of phytochemicals with anticancer characteristics can be considered as an innovative approach for treating cancer and increasing the sensitivity of cancer cells to standard prevailing therapies. The purpose of this review was to investigate the effect of various phytochemicals on regulation of lncRNAs in different human cancer and evaluate their capabilities for cancer treatment and prevention.

LncRNAs in the Regulation of Genes and Signaling Pathways through miRNA-Mediated and Other Mechanisms in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma

The fundamental novelty in the pathogenesis of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) was discovered as a result of the recent identification of the role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). Here, we discuss several mechanisms for the dysregulation of the expression of protein-coding genes initiated by lncRNAs in the most common and aggressive type of kidney cancer-clear cell RCC (ccRCC). A model of competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) is considered, in which lncRNA acts on genes through the lncRNA/miRNA/mRNA axis. For the most studied oncogenic lncRNAs, such as HOTAIR, MALAT1, and TUG1, several regulatory axes were identified in ccRCC, demonstrating a number of sites for various miRNAs. Interestingly, the LINC00973/miR-7109/Siglec-15 axis represents a novel agent that can suppress the immune response in patients with ccRCC, serving as a valuable target in addition to the PD1/PD-L1 pathway. Other mechanisms of action of lncRNAs in ccRCC, involving direct binding with proteins, mRNAs, and genes/DNA, are also considered. Our review briefly highlights methods by which various mechanisms of action of lncRNAs were verified. We pay special attention to protein targets and signaling pathways with which lncRNAs are associated in ccRCC. Thus, these new data on the different mechanisms of lncRNA functioning provide a novel basis for understanding the pathogenesis of ccRCC and the identification of new prognostic markers and targets for therapy.

Circ-PRKCI Alleviates Lipopolysaccharide-induced Human Kidney 2 Cell Injury by Regulating miR-106b-5p/GAB1 Axis

ABSTRACT

Circular RNAs act as vital regulators in diverse diseases. However, the investigation of circular RNAs in sepsis-engendered acute kidney injury remains dismal. We aimed to explore the effects of circular RNA protein kinase C iota (circ-PRKCI) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-mediated HK2 cell injury. Sepsis in vitro model was established by LPS treatment. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction assay was conducted for determining the levels of circ-PRKCI, microRNA-106b-5p (miR-106b-5p), and growth factor receptor binding 2-associated binding protein 1 (GAB1). Cell viability and apoptosis were evaluated using Cell Counting Kit-8 assay and flow cytometry analysis, respectively. The concentrations of interleukin-6, interleukin-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-α were measured with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. The levels of oxidative stress markers were determined using relevant commercial kits. Western blot assay was conducted for B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), BCL2-Associated X (Bax), and GAB1 protein levels. Dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation assay were used to verify the association between miR-106b-5p and circ-PRKCI or GAB1. We found the Circ-PRKCI level was decreased in sepsis patients and LPS-induced human kidney 2 (HK-2) cells. LPS exposure inhibited cell viability and facilitated apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress in HK-2 cells. Circ-PRKCI overexpression abrogated the effects of LPS on cell apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress in HK-2 cells. Furthermore, circ-PRKCI was identified as the sponge for miR-106b-5p to positively regulate GAB1 expression. Overexpression of circ-PRKCI relieved LPS-mediated HK-2 cell damage by sponging miR-106b-5p. MiR-106b-5p inhibition ameliorated the injury of HK-2 cells mediated by LPS, whereas GAB1 knockdown reversed the effect. Collectively, Circ-PRKCI overexpression attenuated LPS-induced HK-2 cell injury by regulating miR-106b-5p/GAB1 axis.

Antagonist targeting miR‑106b‑5p attenuates acute renal injury by regulating renal function, apoptosis and autophagy via the upregulation of TCF4

Acute renal injury (ARI) is a life‑threatening condition and a main contributor to end‑stage renal disease, which is mainly caused by ischemia‑reperfusion (I/R). miR‑106b‑5p is a kidney function‑related miRNA; however, whether miR‑106b‑5p regulates the progression of ARI remains unclear. The present study thus aimed to examine the effects of miR‑106b‑5p antagonist on the regulation of ARI progression. It was found that miR‑106b‑5p expression was upregulated in the renal tissue of rats with I/R‑induced ARI and in NRK‑52E rat renal proximal tubular epithelial cells subjected to hypoxia‑reoxygenation (H/R). In vitro, H/R induction suppressed the proliferation, and promoted the apoptosis and autophagy of NRK‑52E cells, whereas miR‑106b‑5p antagonist (inhibition of miR‑106b‑5p) promoted the proliferation, and attenuated the apoptosis and autophagy of NRK‑52E cells under the H/R condition. Dual luciferase reporter gene assay validated that transcription factor 4 (TCF4) was a target of miR‑106b‑5p. It was further found that TCF4 overexpression promoted the proliferation, and inhibited the apoptosis and autophagy of NRK‑52E cells subjected to H/R. Moreover, the effects of miR‑106b‑5p antagonist on NRK‑52E cell proliferation, apoptosis and autophagy were mediated through the regulation of TCF4. In vivo, miR‑106b‑5p antagonist reduced the severity of renal injury, decreased cell proliferation in renal tissues and lowered the serum creatinine (Scr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels in the blood samples from rats with I/R‑induced ARI. On the whole, the findings presented herein demonstrate that miR‑106b‑5p antagonist attenuates ARI by promoting the proliferation, and suppressing the apoptosis and autophagy of renal cells via upregulating TCF4.

Current insights into epigenetics, noncoding RNA interactome and clinical pharmacokinetics of dietary polyphenols in cancer chemoprevention

Several studies have reported the health-beneficial effects of dietary phytochemicals, namely polyphenols, to prevent various diseases, including cancer. Polyphenols, like (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) from green tea, curcumin from turmeric, and ellagic acid from pomegranate are known to act by modulating antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and apoptotic signal transduction pathways in the tumor milieu. The evolving literature underscores the role of epigenetic regulation of genes associated with cancer by these polyphenols, primarily via non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), such as microRNAs (miRNA) and long noncoding RNA (lncRNA). However, there is little clarity on the exact role(s) played by these ncRNAs and their interactions with other ncRNAs, or with their protein targets, in response to modulation by these dietary polyphenols. Here, we review ncRNA interactions and functional networks of the complex ncRNA interactome with their targets in preclinical studies along with the role of epigenetics as well as key aspects of pharmacokinetics and phytochemistry of dietary polyphenols. We also summarize the current state of clinical trials with these dietary polyphenols. Taken together, this synthetic review provides insights into the molecular aspects underlying the anticancer chemopreventive effects of dietary polyphenols as well as summarizes data on novel biomarkers modulated by these polyphenols for preventive or therapeutic purposes in various types of cancer.

Two Antibody-Guided Lactic-co-Glycolic Acid-Polyethylenimine (LGA-PEI) Nanoparticle Delivery Systems for Therapeutic Nucleic Acids

We previously reported a new polymer, lactic-co-glycolic acid-polyethylenimine (LGA-PEI), as an improved nanoparticle (NP) delivery for therapeutic nucleic acids (TNAs). Here, we further developed two antibody (Ab)-conjugated LGA-PEI NP technologies for active-targeting delivery of TNAs. LGA-PEI was covalently conjugated with a single-chain variable fragment antibody (scFv) against mesothelin (MSLN), a biomarker for pancreatic cancer (PC), or a special Ab fragment crystallizable region-binding peptide (FcBP), which binds to any full Ab (IgG). TNAs used in the current study included tumor suppressor microRNA mimics (miR-198 and miR-520h) and non-coding RNA X-inactive specific transcript (XIST) fragments; green fluorescence protein gene (GFP plasmid DNA) was also used as an example of plasmid DNA. MSLN scFv-LGA-PEI NPs with TNAs significantly improved their binding and internalization in PC cells with high expression of MSLN in vitro and in vivo. Anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) monoclonal Ab (Cetuximab) binding to FcBP-LGA-PEI showed active-targeting delivery of TNAs to EGFR-expressing PC cells.

Benchmarking and Testing Machine Learning Approaches with BARRA:CuRDa, a Curated RNA-Seq Database for Cancer Research

RNA-seq is gradually becoming the dominating technique employed to access the global gene expression in biological samples, allowing more flexible protocols and robust analysis. However, the nature of RNA-seq results imposes new data-handling challenges when it comes to computational analysis. With the increasing employment of machine learning (ML) techniques in biomedical sciences, databases that could provide curated data sets treated with state-of-the-art approaches already adapted to ML protocols, become essential for testing new algorithms. In this study, we present the Benchmarking of ARtificial intelligence Research: Curated RNA-seq Database (BARRA:CuRDa). BARRA:CuRDa was built exclusively for cancer research and is composed of 17 handpicked RNA-seq data sets for Homo sapiens that were gathered from the Gene Expression Omnibus, using rigorous filtering criteria. All data sets were individually submitted to sample quality analysis, removal of low-quality bases and artifacts from the experimental process, removal of ribosomal RNA, and estimation of transcript-level abundance. Moreover, all data sets were tested using standard approaches in the field, which allows them to be used as benchmark to new ML approaches. A feature selection analysis was also performed on each data set to investigate the biological accuracy of basic techniques. Results include genes already related to their specific tumoral tissue a large amount of long noncoding RNA and pseudogenes. BARRA:CuRDa is available at http://sbcb.inf.ufrgs.br/barracurda.

X-Inactive-Specific Transcript: Review of Its Functions in the Carcinogenesis

X-inactive-specific transcript (XIST) is one of the firstly discovered long non-coding RNAs with prominent roles in the process of X inactivation. Moreover, this transcript contributes in the carcinogenic process in different tissues. In addition to interacting with chromatin modifying molecules, XIST can be served as a molecular sponge for miRNAs to modulate expression of miRNA targets. Most of the studies have indicated an oncogenic role for XIST. However, in prostate cancer, a single study has indicated a tumor suppressor role for this lncRNA. Similar result has been reported for XIST in oral squamous cell carcinoma. In hepatocellular carcinoma, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, osteosarcoma, and renal cell carcinoma, different studies have reported inconsistent results. In the present manuscript, we review function of XIST in the carcinogenesis.

Biological Function of Long Non-coding RNA (LncRNA) Xist

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) regulate gene expression in a variety of ways at epigenetic, chromatin remodeling, transcriptional, and translational levels. Accumulating evidence suggests that lncRNA X-inactive specific transcript (lncRNA Xist) serves as an important regulator of cell growth and development. Despites its original roles in X-chromosome dosage compensation, lncRNA Xist also participates in the development of tumor and other human diseases by functioning as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA). In this review, we comprehensively summarized recent progress in understanding the cellular functions of lncRNA Xist in mammalian cells and discussed current knowledge regarding the ceRNA network of lncRNA Xist in various diseases. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are transcripts that are more than 200 nt in length and without an apparent protein-coding capacity (Furlan and Rougeulle, 2016; Maduro et al., 2016). These RNAs are believed to be transcribed by the approximately 98-99% non-coding regions of the human genome (Derrien et al., 2012; Fu, 2014; Montalbano et al., 2017; Slack and Chinnaiyan, 2019), as well as a large variety of genomic regions, such as exonic, tronic, and intergenic regions. Hence, lncRNAs are also divided into eight categories: Intergenic lncRNAs, Intronic lncRNAs, Enhancer lncRNAs, Promoter lncRNAs, Natural antisense/sense lncRNAs, Small nucleolar RNA-ended lncRNAs (sno-lncRNAs), Bidirectional lncRNAs, and non-poly(A) lncRNAs (Ma et al., 2013; Devaux et al., 2015; St Laurent et al., 2015; Chen, 2016; Quinn and Chang, 2016; Richard and Eichhorn, 2018; Connerty et al., 2020). A range of evidence has suggested that lncRNAs function as key regulators in crucial cellular functions, including proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion, by regulating the expression level of target genes via epigenomic, transcriptional, or post-transcriptional approaches (Cao et al., 2018). Moreover, lncRNAs detected in body fluids were also believed to serve as potential biomarkers for the diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring of disease progression, and act as novel and potential drug targets for therapeutic exploitation in human disease (Jiang W. et al., 2018; Zhou et al., 2019a). Long non-coding RNA X-inactive specific transcript (lncRNA Xist) are a set of 15,000-20,000 nt sequences localized in the X chromosome inactivation center (XIC) of chromosome Xq13.2 (Brown et al., 1992; Debrand et al., 1998; Kay, 1998; Lee et al., 2013; da Rocha and Heard, 2017; Yang Z. et al., 2018; Brockdorff, 2019). Previous studies have indicated that lncRNA Xist regulate X chromosome inactivation (XCI), resulting in the inheritable silencing of one of the X-chromosomes during female cell development. Also, it serves a vital regulatory function in the whole spectrum of human disease (notably cancer) and can be used as a novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarker and as a potential therapeutic target for human disease in the clinic (Liu et al., 2018b; Deng et al., 2019; Dinescu et al., 2019; Mutzel and Schulz, 2020; Patrat et al., 2020; Wang et al., 2020a). In particular, lncRNA Xist have been demonstrated to be involved in the development of multiple types of tumors including brain tumor, Leukemia, lung cancer, breast cancer, and liver cancer, with the prominent examples outlined in Table 1. It was also believed that lncRNA Xist (Chaligne and Heard, 2014; Yang Z. et al., 2018) contributed to other diseases, such as pulmonary fibrosis, inflammation, neuropathic pain, cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, and osteoarthritis chondrocytes, and more specific details can be found in Table 2. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the regulatory mechanisms of lncRNA Xist on both chromosome dosage compensation and pathogenesis (especially cancer) processes, with a focus on the regulatory network of lncRNA Xist in human disease.

Non-Coding RNAs in Kidney Diseases: The Long and Short of Them

Recent progress in genomic research has highlighted the genome to be much more transcribed than expected. The formerly so-called junk DNA encodes a miscellaneous group of largely unknown RNA transcripts, which contain the long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) family. lncRNAs are instrumental in gene regulation. Moreover, understanding their biological roles in the physiopathology of many diseases, including renal, is a new challenge. lncRNAs regulate the effects of microRNAs (miRNA) on mRNA expression. Understanding the complex crosstalk between lncRNA–miRNA–mRNA is one of the main challenges of modern molecular biology. This review aims to summarize the role of lncRNA on kidney diseases, the molecular mechanisms involved, and their function as emerging prognostic biomarkers for both acute and chronic kidney diseases. Finally, we will also outline new therapeutic opportunities to diminish renal injury by targeting lncRNA with antisense oligonucleotides.

Curcumin and cancer; are long non-coding RNAs missing link?

Despite significant signs of progress in cancer treatment over the past decade, either cancer prevalence or mortality continuously grow worldwide. Current anti-cancer agents show insignificant effectiveness, followed by serious side effects. It is important to find new, highly efficient pharmacological agents to increase cancer patients' clinical outcomes. Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound, has gained growing attention because of its anti-cancer properties. Curcumin can hinder the development, migration, and metastasis of cancer cells. The anti-cancer effects of curcumin are principally attributed to the regulation of several cellular signaling pathways, including MAPK/PI3K/Akt, Wnt/β-catenin, JAK/STAT, and NF-ĸB signaling pathways. Furthermore, curcumin can affect the expression and function of tumor-suppressive and oncogenic long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). In this study, we briefly reviewed the modulatory effect of curcumin on dysregulated tumor-supportive and tumor-suppressive lncRNAs in several cancers. It is hoped that a better understanding of curcumin's anti-cancer properties would pave the way for the development of a therapeutic approach in cancer.

Role of Curcumin in Regulating Long Noncoding RNA Expression in Cancer

Phytochemicals are various compounds produced by plants. There is growing evidence on their potential health effects. Some of these compounds are considered as traditional medicines and used as painkillers, anti-inflammatory agents, and for other applications. One of these phytochemicals is curumin, a natural polyphenol derived from the turmeric plant (Curcuma longa L.). Curcumin is widely used as a food coloring, preservative and condiment. It has also been shown to have antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. Moreover, there is growing evidence that curcumin alters long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in many kinds of cancer. These noncoding RNAs can cause epigenetic modulation in the expression of several genes. This study reviews reports of curcumin effects on lncRNAs in lung, prostate, colorectal, breast, pancreatic, renal, gastric, and ovarian cancers.

Regulation of Long Non-Coding RNAs by Plant Secondary Metabolites: A Novel Anticancer Therapeutic Approach

Simple Summary

Cancer is caused by the rapid and uncontrolled growth of cells that eventually lead to tumor formation. Genetic and epigenetic alterations are among the most critical factors in the onset of carcinoma. Phytochemicals are a group of natural compounds that play an essential role in cancer prevention and treatment. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are potential therapeutic targets of bioactive phytochemicals, and these compounds could regulate the expression of lncRNAs directly and indirectly. Here, we critically evaluate in vitro and in vivo anticancer effects of phytochemicals in numerous human cancers via regulation of lncRNA expression and their downstream target genes.

Abstract

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNAs that play an essential role in various cellular activities, such as differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis. Dysregulation of lncRNAs serves a fundamental role in the progression and initiation of various diseases, including cancer. Precision medicine is a suitable and optimal treatment method for cancer so that based on each patient’s genetic content, a specific treatment or drug is prescribed. The rapid advancement of science and technology in recent years has led to many successes in this particular treatment. Phytochemicals are a group of natural compounds extracted from fruits, vegetables, and plants. Through the downregulation of oncogenic lncRNAs or upregulation of tumor suppressor lncRNAs, these bioactive compounds can inhibit metastasis, proliferation, invasion, migration, and cancer cells. These natural products can be a novel and alternative strategy for cancer treatment and improve tumor cells’ sensitivity to standard adjuvant therapies. This review will discuss the antineoplastic effects of bioactive plant secondary metabolites (phytochemicals) via regulation of expression of lncRNAs in various human cancers and their potential for the treatment and prevention of human cancers.

ZNF674-AS1 antagonizes miR-423-3p to induce G0/G1 cell cycle arrest in non-small cell lung cancer cells

BACKGROUND

ZNF674-AS1, a recently characterized long noncoding RNA, shows prognostic significance in hepatocellular carcinoma and glioma. However, the expression and function of ZNF674-AS1 in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) are unclear.

METHODS

In this work, we investigated the expression of ZNF674-AS1 in 83 pairs of NSCLC specimens and adjacent noncancerous lung tissues. The clinical significance of ZNF674-AS1 in NSCLC was analyzed. The role of ZNF674-AS1 in NSCLC growth and cell cycle progression was explored.

RESULTS

Our data show that ZNF674-AS1 expression is decreased in NSCLC compared to normal tissues. ZNF674-AS1 downregulation is significantly correlated with advanced TNM stage and decreased overall survival of NSCLC patients. Overexpression of ZNF674-AS1 inhibits NSCLC cell proliferation, colony formation, and tumorigenesis, which is accompanied by a G0/G1 cell cycle arrest. Conversely, knockdown of ZNF674-AS1 enhances the proliferation and colony formation of NSCLC cells. Biochemically, ZNF674-AS1 overexpression increases the expression of p21 through downregulation of miR-423-3p. Knockdown of p21 or overexpression of miR-423-3p blocks ZNF674-AS1-mediated growth suppression and G0/G1 cell cycle arrest. In addition, ZNF674-AS1 expression is negatively correlated with miR-423-3p in NSCLC specimens.

CONCLUSIONS

ZNF674-AS1 suppresses NSCLC growth by downregulating miR-423-3p and inducing p21. This work suggests the therapeutic potential of ZNF674-AS1 in the treatment of NSCLC.

Downregulating LncRNA XIST attenuated contrast-induced nephropathy injury via regulating miR-133a-3p/NLRP3 axis

Long non-coding RNA X-inactive specific transcript (LncRNA XIST) is involved in several diseases. However, the molecular mechanism of XIST and its relation with miR-133a-3p in contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) remained vague. Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were assigned to Control, Sham, and CIN groups at random (n = 15 for each group). Histological examination on the kidney tissues was performed using hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining. Mean serum creatinine (SCr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) contents was measured by colorimetric microplate method. Levels of inflammatory cytokines were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The cells viability and apoptosis were respectively detected by MTT assay and flow cytometry. Target gene and potential binding sites between XIST, miR-133a-3p and NLR Family Pyrin Domain Containing 3 (NLRP3) were predicted using online databases and confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter assay. Relative mRNA and protein expressions of XIST, miR-133a-3p, NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein (ASC) and Cleaved caspase-1 were measured with quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blot as needed. In the rat CIN model, Ioversol induced kidney morphology changes, with increase on SCr and BUN contents, elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines and upregulated expressions of XIST, NLRP3, ASC and Cleaved caspase-1. Silencing XIST reversed the effects of Ioversol on cells. MiR-133a-3p could bind with XIST and target NLRP3, and downregulating miR-133a-3p reversed the effect of silencing XIST on Ioversol-treated cells. Moreover, downregulating XIST attenuated CIN injury via regulating miR-133a-3p/NLRP3 axis.

lncRNA SNHG3 acts as oncogene in ovarian cancer through miR-139-5p and Notch1

Ovarian cancer (OC) is a common malignant tumor of the female reproductive system. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play an important role in OC occurrence and development. Thus, the function and potential mechanism of lncRNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 3 (SNHG3) was explored in the development of OC. The expression of SNHG3, microRNA (miR)-139-5p and Notch homolog 1, translocation-associated (Drosophila) (Notch1) in OC were detected by RT-qPCR or western blot assay. In addition, CCK-8 and wound-healing assays were used to detect OVCAR3 proliferation and migration ability. The targeting relationship of miR-139-5p with SNHG3 or Notch1 was verified through luciferase reporter assay. Rescue experiments were performed to confirm whether SNHG3 could mediate OVCAR3 proliferation and migration through miR-139-5p and Notch1. In OC tissues and cell lines, the expression of SNHG3 and Notch1 were significantly increased, and the expression of miR-139-5p was significantly decreased. SNHG3 inhibition suppressed the proliferation and migration of OVCAR3 cells. Luciferase reporter experiment confirmed that miR-139-5p could target SNHG3 and Notch1. Transfection of miR-139-5p inhibitor significantly reversed the inhibitory effect of SNHG3 knockdown on OVCAR3 proliferation and migration. Moreover, SNHG3 inhibition or miR-139-5p mimic abolished the promotion of Notch1 overexpression on OVCAR3 proliferation and migration. In conclusion, SNHG3 could accelerate the proliferation and migration of OC cells by regulating miR-139-5p and Notch1.

Upregulation of tissue long noncoding RNA X inactive specific transcript predicts poor postoperative survival in patients with non-small cell lung cancer

X inactive specific transcript (XIST) is a novel long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) which has been reported to be frequently upregulated in various human cancer types and to function as an oncogene. It has been reported that the expression of lncRNA XIST was upregulated in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In the present study, we aimed to investigate the clinical significance and prognostic value of XIST in patients with NSCLC.A total of 156 pairs of NSCLC and corresponding adjacent normal lung tissue samples were obtained from NSCLC patients who had undergone surgery from July 2014 to March 2019. The Student's t test was used in different treated groups for statistical analysis. The association between XIST expression and clinicopathological features of NSCLC patients was evaluated using the chi-squared test. Survival curves were plotted using Kaplan-Meier method and compared by log-rank test.The expression of XIST was significantly higher in NSCLC samples compared to non-cancerous samples (P < .001). Statistically significant correlations were observed between high tissue XIST expression level and lymph node metastasis (P = .036) and high Tumor Node Metastasis (TNM) stage (P = .002). The log-rank test indicated that patients with increased XIST expression experienced poor overall survival (P = .006). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that XIST expression level (hazard ratio = 2.645, 95% confidence interval: 1.672-7.393, P = .029) was an independent factors in predicting the overall survival of NSCLC patients.The present study found that XIST expression level was significantly associated with advanced pathological stage and high TNM stage in NSCLC. Furthermore, upregulation of tissue lncRNA XIST predicts poor postoperative survival in patients with NSCLC.

Comprehensive analysis of competing endogenous RNA network in Wilms tumor based on the TARGET database

Background

Wilms tumor (WT) was the most common malignant tumor of urinary system in children. With the advances in gene sequencing, research of molecular mechanism of WT tumor was gradually increasing. However, few studies have explored the influence of competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) in WT. Accordingly, we aimed to explore the mechanisms of ceRNA co-expression network in WT.

Methods

A total of 6 non-tumor controls and 127 WT patients’ RNA-seq data combined with clinical data was acquired from Therapeutically Applicable Research to Generate Effective Treatments (TARGET) database. Differentially expressed lncRNA, miRNA and mRNA between WT tissues and normal tissues were analyzed using “edgeR” package in R software. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was utilized to construct the ceRNA co-expression network while Molecular Complex Detection (MCODE) algorithm was used to extract the pivotal sub-network. Function annotation of mRNA was performed by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). Survival analysis was then conducted based on long-rank test and Kaplan-Meier curves using the survival package.

Results

By applying the “edgeR” package in R, the transcriptome expression data of 127 WT tissues with 6 normal tissues were normalized. Moreover, 146 DElncRNAs, 62 DEmiRNAs, 287 DEmRNAs of them were involved in ceRNA network after applying WGCNA. According to MCODE, we identified that the interactions between LINC002253 (lncRNA) and TRIM71 (mRNA) was mediated by hsa-mir-301a and hsa-mir-301b (miRNA). Furthermore, we detected 13 DElncRNAs which were significantly associated with the progression of WT.

Conclusions

We used WGCNA method to construct the WT ceRNA network for the first time. TRIM71 was identified to be the most closely related genes involved in hub sub-network by MCDOE, suggesting it might act as a new drug target and prognostic factor based on our comprehensive results.

MiRNA-106b-5p in human cancers: diverse functions and promising biomarker

MicroRNAs (miRNAs), as a class of small, well-conserved, non-coding RNA molecules, hold the capacity to post-transcriptionally suppress the expression of over 50% protein-coding genes. Emerging and accumulating evidence suggests that miRNAs function as the master regulators of multiple pathophysiological processes, and play important roles in diverse human diseases, especially in tumorigenesis and progression. MiR-106b-5p, a member of miR-106b seed family, has been demonstrated to be aberrantly expressed in human solid malignancies, and to play paradoxically opposing functions as an oncomiR or a tumor suppressor in tumor development. In addition, it has been recently reported to be a promising biomarker for prognostic evaluation for cancer patients. In the present review, we provided an overview to summarize the present findings of miR-106b-5p in cancer research fields, thereby establishing comprehensive understanding of its diverse functions and clinical implications in human cancers.

Downregulation of XIST ameliorates acute kidney injury by sponging miR-142-5p and targeting PDCD4

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common kidney disease that markedly affects public health. To date, the roles of long noncoding RNA XIST in AKI are poorly understood. Here, we investigated the biological functions of XIST in AKI. We observed that XIST expression increased in patients with AKI and HK-2 cells stimulated by CoCl₂ . In addition, a rat AKI model induced by ischemia-reperfusion was established. Tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, and cyclooxygenase-2 messenger RNA expression were induced in vivo; moreover, XIST expression was upregulated. Knockdown of XIST significantly repressed CoCl₂ -triggered injury in HK-2 cells. However, microRNA (miR)-142-5p, a downstream target of XIST, was downregulated in AKI. miR-142-5p was repressed by XIST and miR-142-5p could inhibit CoCl₂ -induced injury in HK-2 cells. Moreover, PDCD4 expression was significantly increased in AKI. PDCD4 was predicted to be the target of miR-142-5p. Subsequently, loss of PDCD4 was able to retard injury in HK-2 cells exposed to CoCl_2. Thus, we suggest that XIST regulates miR-142-5p and PDCD4, and it has the potential to function as a biomarker in therapeutic strategies for AKI.

miR-106b-5p promotes cell proliferation and cell cycle progression by directly targeting CDKN1A in osteosarcoma

MicroRNA (miR)-106b-5p has been reported to act as both an oncogene and tumor suppressor in several tumors. The aim of the present study was to investigate the biological function of miR-106b-5p in osteosarcoma (OS). miR-106b-5p expression was observed to be significantly increased in OS tissues and cell lines. MTT assay and flow cytometry analysis determined that miR-106b-5p inhibitor transfection suppressed OS cell proliferation and induced cell cycle G0/G1 phase arrest. Furthermore, bioinformatics analysis and a luciferase reporter assay demonstrated that cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1A (CDKN1A) was a potential target of miR-106b-5p. p21 protein expression was found to be significantly increased by miR-106b-5p downregulation in OS cells. Further analysis demonstrated that CDKN1A was downregulated in OS tissues and was negatively correlated with miR-106b-5p expression. Furthermore, upregulation of CDKN1A expression mimicked, whilst CDKN1A knockdown reversed the suppressive effects of miR-106b-5p inhibitor on OS cell proliferation and cell cycle progression. In summary, the present data suggested that miR-106b-5p promotes cell proliferation and cell cycle progression by directly targeting CDKN1A in OS.

Targeting XIST induced apoptosis of human osteosarcoma cells by activation of NF-kB/PUMA signal

The long noncoding RNA X-inactive specific transcript (XIST) plays vital roles in tumor progression. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study investigated the effects and mechanisms of targeting XIST on osteosarcoma (OS) cells in vitro and in vivo. We used shRNA to knockdown XIST to evaluate cell growth and apoptosis in U2OS cells in vitro and xenograft formation in vivo. An observed relationship between XIST and the p53 upregulated modulator of apoptosis (PUMA) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB) pathway was further explored by using small interfering RNA (siRNA). Our results showed that suppression of XIST by short hairpin RNA (shRNA) impeded U2OS cell growth, induced apoptosis and lessened OS xenograft tumor growth. Targeting XIST increased NF-kB-dependent PUMA upregulation in U2OS cells. Upregulation of PUMA is correlated with suppression of XIST-induced apoptosis in U2OS cells. Therefore, inhibition of XIST could promote U2OS cell death via activation of NF-kB/PUMA pathways.

LncRNA XIST promotes extracellular matrix synthesis, proliferation and migration by targeting miR-29b-3p/COL1A1 in human skin fibroblasts after thermal injury

Background

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been reported to be associated with dermis process during burn wound healing. This study aimed to investigate the role of lncRNA X-inactive specific transcript (XIST) in human skin fibroblasts (HSF) and extracellular matrix (ECM) as well as the regulatory network of XIST/microRNA-29b-3p (miR-29b-3p)/collagen 1 alpha 1 (COL1A1).

Methods

The wound samples were collected from 25 patients with deep partial thickness burn at day 5 after burn. The thermal injured model was established using HSF cells. The expressions of XIST, miR-29b-3p and COL1A1 were measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot. ECM synthesis, cell proliferation and migration were detected by western blot, cell counting kit-8 and trans-well assays, respectively. The interaction between miR-29b-3p and XIST or COL1A1 was explored by bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assay.

Results

The expressions of XIST and COL1A1 were enhanced but miR-29b-3p expression was decreased after thermal injury. XIST overexpression promoted ECM synthesis, cell proliferation and migration in thermal injured HSF cells. However, XIST knockdown played an opposite effect. miR-29b-3p overexpression inhibited ECM synthesis, cell proliferation and migration, which was reversed by XIST. COL1A1 silence suppressed ECM synthesis, cell proliferation and migration by miR-29b-3p targeting. Moreover, COL1A1 up-regulation weakened the effect of XIST silence on ECM synthesis and HSF cell function.

Conclusion

XIST promoted ECM synthesis, cell proliferation and migration by sponging miR-29b-3p and targeting COL1A1 in HSF cells after thermal injury, indicating the promoting role of XIST in wound healing.

Decrypting noncoding RNA interactions, structures, and functional networks

The world of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) is composed of an enormous and growing number of transcripts, ranging in length from tens of bases to tens of kilobases, involved in all biological processes and altered in expression and/or function in many types of human disorders. The premise of this review is the concept that ncRNAs, like many large proteins, have a multidomain architecture that organizes them spatially and functionally. As ncRNAs are beginning to be imprecisely classified into functional families, we review here how their structural properties might inform their functions with focus on structural architecture-function relationships. We will describe the properties of "interactor elements" (IEs) involved in direct physical interaction with nucleic acids, proteins, or lipids and of "structural elements" (SEs) directing their wiring within the "ncRNA interactor networks" through the emergence of secondary and/or tertiary structures. We suggest that spectrums of "letters" (ncRNA elements) are assembled into "words" (ncRNA domains) that are further organized into "phrases" (complete ncRNA structures) with functional meaning (signaling output) through complex "sentences" (the ncRNA interactor networks). This semiotic analogy can guide the exploitation of ncRNAs as new therapeutic targets through the development of IE-blockers and/or SE-lockers that will change the interactor partners' spectrum of proteins, RNAs, DNAs, or lipids and consequently influence disease phenotypes.

LINC00511 promotes the malignant phenotype of clear cell renal cell carcinoma by sponging microRNA-625 and thereby increasing cyclin D1 expression

The expression pattern and detailed roles of long noncoding RNA LINC00511 in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) remain unknown. We measured LINC00511 expression in ccRCC. We clarified the clinical characteristics associated with LINC00511 in ccRCC. We examined the biological roles of LINC00511 in the progression of ccRCC, and we identified the potential mechanisms involved. LINC00511 was upregulated in ccRCC tissues and cell lines. High LINC00511 expression significantly correlated with TNM classification, lymph node metastasis, and short overall survival among patients with ccRCC. Additionally, LINC00511 knockdown restricted ccRCC cell proliferation, colony formation, and metastasis in vitro; accelerated cell cycle arrest at G0–G1 and apoptosis in vitro; and decreased tumor growth in vivo. Investigation of the mechanism revealed that LINC00511 directly interacted with microRNA-625 (miR-625), and the inhibitory effects of the LINC00511 knockdown on malignant characteristics were neutralized by miR-625 silencing. Furthermore, cyclin D1 (CCND1) was identified as a direct target of miR-625 in ccRCC cells. The tumor-suppressive activity of miR-625 upregulation on ccRCC cells was reversed by CCND1 reintroduction. In conclusion, LINC00511 serves as a competing endogenous RNA that regulates CCND1 expression by sponging miR-625 in ccRCC. Hence, the LINC00511/miR-625/CCND1 pathway might be a promising therapeutic target in ccRCC.

Incorporating MicroRNA into Molecular Phenotypes of Circulating Tumor Cells Enhances the Prognostic Accuracy for Patients with Metastatic Breast Cancer

The molecular phenotype of circulating tumor cells is associated with clinical outcome of patients with breast cancer. The aim of this study was to enhance the prognostic accuracy of the circulating tumor cell phenotype in metastatic breast cancer by incorporating miRNA into a combined prediction model.

Background.

The molecular phenotype of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) was associated with clinical outcome of patients with breast cancer. CTCs isolated from patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) display a unique microRNA (miRNA) expression profile. The aim of this study was to enhance the prognostic accuracy of the CTC phenotype in patients with MBC, by incorporating miRNA into a combined prediction model.

Subjects, Materials, and Methods.

CTCs were detected by CellSearch and enriched by magnetic cell sorting. miRNA deep sequencing and quantitative polymerase chain reaction were used to screen and verify potentially CTC‐specific miRNA candidates. Patients with MBC were enrolled from two independent cohorts, and overall survival (OS) and chemotherapy response were analyzed.

Results.

We screened and identified that miR‐106b was an upregulated molecule in patients with MBC with CTC ≥5/7.5 mL (n = 16) compared with patients with CTC = 0/7.5 mL (n = 16) and healthy donors (n = 8). The expression of CTC‐specific miR‐106b correlated with vimentin and E‐cadherin in CTC and acted as an independent factor for predicting OS (hazard ratio 2.157, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.098–4.239, p = .026). Although CTC‐specific miR‐106b, E‐cadherin, and vimentin showed a prognostic potential independently, the prognostic performance for OS based on the combination of three markers was significantly enhanced in Cohort 1 (area under the curve [AUC] 0.752, 95% CI 0.658–0.847, n = 128) and further validated in Cohort 2 (AUC 0.726, 95% CI 0.595–0.856, n = 91). Besides, a combined model incorporating miR‐106b was associated with therapy response.

Conclusion.

The phenotypic assemblies of CTC incorporating miR‐106b show enhanced prognostic accuracy of overall survival in patients with MBC.

Implications for Practice.

In order to enhance the prognostic accuracy of the circulating tumor cell (CTC) phenotype in patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC), this study screened and identified a CTC‐specific microRNA (miRNA), miR‐106b, as an upregulated molecule based on the comparison of miRNA profile between CTCs, primary tumors, and healthy blood donors. By incorporating miR‐106b into a combined prediction model, the prognostic accuracy of the CTC phenotype for patients with MBC was greatly improved in both the training and validation cohorts. This work provides clinical evidence supporting the prognostic potential of CTC‐specific miRNA for patients with MBC. These results indicate that developing CTC‐specific miRNAs as new biomarkers will help to further optimize personalized therapy.

Long non-coding RNA XIST predicting advanced clinical parameters in cancer: A Meta-Analysis and case series study in a single institution

Dysregulated expression of long non-coding RNA X-inactive specific transcript (lncRNA-XIST) has been indicated in various cancer types. In the present study, a meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the potential role of lncRNA-XIST in predicting the clinicopathological parameters of patients with cancer. Eligible studies were obtained through a systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, Embase and the Cochrane Library, of articles published prior to January 2019. The combined odds ratio and 95% confidence interval were calculated to determine the association between lncRNA-XIST expression and patient outcome. In addition, 45 pairs of osteosarcoma (OS) tissues and adjacent healthy tissues from a single institution were analyzed for the expression of lncRNA-XIST, and its association with clinicopathological features; ultimately, a total of 1,869 cancer patients from 25 studies were assessed. The results demonstrated that high expression levels of lncRNA-XIST were significantly associated with lymphatic metastasis, larger tumor size, advanced cancer stage and distant metastasis. However, sex was not associated with lncRNA-XIST expression level. In the OS patient cohort, it was demonstrated that lncRNA-XIST was highly expressed in OS tissues, which negatively correlated with patient prognosis. The present study indicated that lncRNA-XIST may serve as a potential biomarker for advanced clinical parameters in human cancer.