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Wang P, Zhou Y, Wang J, Zhou Y, Zhang X, Liu Y, Li A, He Y, Chen S, Qian A, Wang X, Nie Y, Fan D, Cao T, Lu Y, Zhao X. miR-107 reverses the multidrug resistance of gastric cancer by targeting the CGA/EGFR/GATA2 positive feedback circuit. J Biol Chem 2024:107522. [PMID: 38960034 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy is still the main therapeutic strategy for gastric cancer (GC). However, most patients eventually acquire multidrug resistance (MDR). Hyperactivation of the EGFR signaling pathway contributes to MDR by promoting cancer cell proliferation and inhibiting apoptosis. We previously identified the secreted protein CGA as a novel ligand of EGFR and revealed a CGA/EGFR/GATA2 positive feedback circuit that confers MDR in GC. Herein, we outline a microRNA-based treatment approach for MDR reversal that targets both CGA and GATA2. We observed increased expression of CGA and GATA2 and increased activation of EGFR in GC samples. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that miR-107 could simultaneously target CGA and GATA2, and the low expression of miR-107 was correlated with poor prognosis in GC patients. The direct interactions between miR-107 and CGA or GATA2 were validated by luciferase reporter assays and western blot analysis. Overexpression of miR-107 in MDR GC cells increased their susceptibility to chemotherapeutic agents, including fluorouracil, adriamycin and vincristine, in vitro. Notably, intratumor injection of the miR-107 prodrug enhanced MDR xenograft sensitivity to chemotherapies in vivo. Molecularly, targeting CGA and GATA2 with miR-107 inhibited EGFR downstream signaling, as evidenced by the reduced phosphorylation of ERK and AKT. These results suggest that miR-107 may contribute to the development of a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of MDR in GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Wang
- Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Yelu Zhou
- Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Juan Wang
- Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Yun Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Xiaohui Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Yanxing Liu
- Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Ang Li
- Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Yangsong He
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Shuyi Chen
- Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China; School of basic Medical Sciences, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Airong Qian
- Key Laboratory for Space Biosciences and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710072, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Yongzhan Nie
- Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Daiming Fan
- Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Tianyu Cao
- Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China.
| | - Yuanyuan Lu
- Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China.
| | - Xiaodi Zhao
- Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China.
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Tiwari PK, Shanmugam P, Karn V, Gupta S, Mishra R, Rustagi S, Chouhan M, Verma D, Jha NK, Kumar S. Extracellular Vesicular miRNA in Pancreatic Cancer: From Lab to Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2179. [PMID: 38927885 PMCID: PMC11201547 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16122179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a prevalent lethal gastrointestinal cancer that generally does not show any symptoms until it reaches advanced stages, resulting in a high mortality rate. People at high risk, such as those with a family history or chronic pancreatitis, do not have a universally accepted screening protocol. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy demonstrate limited effectiveness in the management of pancreatic cancer, emphasizing the urgent need for innovative therapeutic strategies. Recent studies indicated that the complex interaction among pancreatic cancer cells within the dynamic microenvironment, comprising the extracellular matrix, cancer-associated cells, and diverse immune cells, intricately regulates the biological characteristics of the disease. Additionally, mounting evidence suggests that EVs play a crucial role as mediators in intercellular communication by the transportation of different biomolecules, such as miRNA, proteins, DNA, mRNA, and lipids, between heterogeneous cell subpopulations. This communication mediated by EVs significantly impacts multiple aspects of pancreatic cancer pathogenesis, including proliferation, angiogenesis, metastasis, and resistance to therapy. In this review, we delve into the pivotal role of EV-associated miRNAs in the progression, metastasis, and development of drug resistance in pancreatic cancer as well as their therapeutic potential as biomarkers and drug-delivery mechanisms for the management of pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prashant Kumar Tiwari
- Biological and Bio-Computational Lab, Department of Life Science, School of Basic Sciences and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida 201310, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Poojhaa Shanmugam
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Mumbai 410206, Maharashtra, India
| | - Vamika Karn
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Mumbai 410206, Maharashtra, India
| | - Saurabh Gupta
- Department of Biotechnology, GLA University, Mathura 281406, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Richa Mishra
- Department of Computer Engineering, Parul University, Ta. Waghodia, Vadodara 391760, Gujarat, India
| | - Sarvesh Rustagi
- School of Applied and Life science, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun 248007, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Mandeep Chouhan
- Biological and Bio-Computational Lab, Department of Life Science, School of Basic Sciences and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida 201310, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Devvret Verma
- Department of Biotechnology, Graphic Era (Deemed to be University), Dehradun 248002, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Niraj Kumar Jha
- Centre for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai 602105, Tamil Nadu, India
- School of Bioengineering & Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India
- Department of Biotechnology, Sharda School of Engineering and Technology, Sharda University, Greater Noida 201310, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sanjay Kumar
- Biological and Bio-Computational Lab, Department of Life Science, School of Basic Sciences and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida 201310, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Traber GM, Yi C, Batra N, Tu MJ, Yu AM. Novel RNA molecular bioengineering technology efficiently produces functional miRNA agents. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2024; 30:680-694. [PMID: 38429100 PMCID: PMC11098458 DOI: 10.1261/rna.079904.123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Genome-derived microRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) govern posttranscriptional gene regulation and play important roles in various cellular processes and disease progression. While chemo-engineered miRNA mimics or biosimilars made in vitro are widely available and used, miRNA agents produced in vivo are emerging to closely recapitulate natural miRNA species for research. Our recent work has demonstrated the success of high-yield, in vivo production of recombinant miRNAs by using human tRNA (htRNA) fused precursor miRNA (pre-miR) carriers. In this study, we aim to compare the production of bioengineered RNA (BioRNA) molecules with glycyl versus leucyl htRNA fused hsa-pre-miR-34a carriers, namely, BioRNAGly and BioRNALeu, respectively, and perform the initial functional assessment. We designed, cloned, overexpressed, and purified a total of 48 new BioRNA/miRNAs, and overall expression levels, final yields, and purities were revealed to be comparable between BioRNAGly and BioRNALeu molecules. Meanwhile, the two versions of BioRNA/miRNAs showed similar activities to inhibit non-small cell lung cancer cell viability. Interestingly, functional analyses using model BioRNA/miR-7-5p demonstrated that BioRNAGly/miR-7-5p exhibited greater efficiency to regulate a known target gene expression (EGFR) than BioRNALeu/miR-7-5p, consistent with miR-7-5p levels released in cells. Moreover, BioRNAGly/miR-7-5p showed comparable or slightly greater activities to modulate MRP1 and VDAC1 expression, compared with miRCURY LNA miR-7-5p mimic. Computational modeling illustrated overall comparable 3D structures for exemplary BioRNA/miRNAs with noticeable differences in htRNA species and payload miRNAs. These findings support the utility of hybrid htRNA/hsa-pre-miR-34a as reliable carriers for RNA molecular bioengineering, and the resultant BioRNAs serve as functional biologic RNAs for research and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavin M Traber
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California-Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, California 95817, USA
| | - Colleen Yi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California-Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, California 95817, USA
| | - Neelu Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California-Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, California 95817, USA
| | - Mei-Juan Tu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California-Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, California 95817, USA
| | - Ai-Ming Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California-Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, California 95817, USA
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Rafieenia F, Ebrahimi SO, Emadi ES, Taheri F, Reiisi S. Bioengineered chimeric tRNA/pre-miRNAs as prodrugs in cancer therapy. Biotechnol Prog 2023; 39:e3387. [PMID: 37608520 DOI: 10.1002/btpr.3387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Today, biologic prodrugs have led to targeting specific tumor markers and have increased specificity and selectivity in cancer therapy. Various studies have shown the role of ncRNAs in cancer pathology and tumorigenesis and have suggested that ncRNAs, especially miRNAs, are valuable molecules in understanding cancer biology and therapeutic processes. Most miRNAs-based research and treatment are limited to chemically synthesized miRNAs. Synthetic alterations in these miRNA mimics may affect their folding, safety profile, and even biological activity. However, despite synthetic miRNA mimics produced by automated systems, various carriers could be used to achieve efficient production of bioengineered miRNAs through economical microbial fermentation. These bioengineered miRNAs as biological prodrugs could provide a new approach for safe therapeutic methods and drug production. In this regard, bioengineered chimeric miRNAs could be selectively processed to mature miRNAs in different types of cancer cells by targeting the desired gene and regulating cancer progression. In this article, we aim to review bioengineered miRNAs and their use in cancer therapy, as well as offering advances in this area, including the use of chimeric tRNA/pre-miRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Rafieenia
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Seyed Omar Ebrahimi
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Ensieh Sadat Emadi
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Forough Taheri
- Department of Genetics, Sharekord Branch, Islamic Azad University, Sharekord
| | - Somayeh Reiisi
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran
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5
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Tu MJ, Yu AM. Recent Advances in Novel Recombinant RNAs for Studying Post-transcriptional Gene Regulation in Drug Metabolism and Disposition. Curr Drug Metab 2023; 24:175-189. [PMID: 37170982 PMCID: PMC10825985 DOI: 10.2174/1389200224666230425232433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Drug-metabolizing enzymes and transporters are major determinants of the absorption, disposition, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) of drugs, and changes in ADME gene expression or function may alter the pharmacokinetics/ pharmacodynamics (PK/PD) and further influence drug safety and therapeutic outcomes. ADME gene functions are controlled by diverse factors, such as genetic polymorphism, transcriptional regulation, and coadministered medications. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a superfamily of regulatory small noncoding RNAs that are transcribed from the genome to regulate target gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. The roles of miRNAs in controlling ADME gene expression have been demonstrated, and such miRNAs may consequently influence cellular drug metabolism and disposition capacity. Several types of miRNA mimics and small interfering RNA (siRNA) reagents have been developed and widely used for ADME research. In this review article, we first provide a brief introduction to the mechanistic actions of miRNAs in post-transcriptional gene regulation of drug-metabolizing enzymes, transporters, and transcription factors. After summarizing conventional small RNA production methods, we highlight the latest advances in novel recombinant RNA technologies and applications of the resultant bioengineered RNA (BioRNA) agents to ADME studies. BioRNAs produced in living cells are not only powerful tools for general biological and biomedical research but also potential therapeutic agents amenable to clinical investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei-Juan Tu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Ai-Ming Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
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6
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Traber GM, Yu AM. RNAi-Based Therapeutics and Novel RNA Bioengineering Technologies. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2023; 384:133-154. [PMID: 35680378 PMCID: PMC9827509 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.122.001234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 68.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) provides researchers with a versatile means to modulate target gene expression. The major forms of RNAi molecules, genome-derived microRNAs (miRNAs) and exogenous small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), converge into RNA-induced silencing complexes to achieve posttranscriptional gene regulation. RNAi has proven to be an adaptable and powerful therapeutic strategy where advancements in chemistry and pharmaceutics continue to bring RNAi-based drugs into the clinic. With four siRNA medications already approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), several RNAi-based therapeutics continue to advance to clinical trials with functions that closely resemble their endogenous counterparts. Although intended to enhance stability and improve efficacy, chemical modifications may increase risk of off-target effects by altering RNA structure, folding, and biologic activity away from their natural equivalents. Novel technologies in development today seek to use intact cells to yield true biologic RNAi agents that better represent the structures, stabilities, activities, and safety profiles of natural RNA molecules. In this review, we provide an examination of the mechanisms of action of endogenous miRNAs and exogenous siRNAs, the physiologic and pharmacokinetic barriers to therapeutic RNA delivery, and a summary of the chemical modifications and delivery platforms in use. We overview the pharmacology of the four FDA-approved siRNA medications (patisiran, givosiran, lumasiran, and inclisiran) as well as five siRNAs and several miRNA-based therapeutics currently in clinical trials. Furthermore, we discuss the direct expression and stable carrier-based, in vivo production of novel biologic RNAi agents for research and development. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: In our review, we summarize the major concepts of RNA interference (RNAi), molecular mechanisms, and current state and challenges of RNAi drug development. We focus our discussion on the pharmacology of US Food and Drug Administration-approved RNAi medications and those siRNAs and miRNA-based therapeutics that entered the clinical investigations. Novel approaches to producing new true biological RNAi molecules for research and development are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ai-Ming Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California (UC) Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California
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Yi WR, Tu MJ, Yu AX, Lin J, Yu AM. Bioengineered miR-34a modulates mitochondrial inner membrane protein 17 like 2 (MPV17L2) expression toward the control of cancer cell mitochondrial functions. Bioengineered 2022; 13:12489-12503. [PMID: 35579419 PMCID: PMC9276019 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2022.2076399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Genome-derived microRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) control post-transcriptional gene expression critical for various cellular processes. Recently, we have invented a novel platform technology to achieve high-yield production of fully humanized, bioengineered miRNA agents (hBERAs) for research and development. This study is aimed to produce and utilize a new biologic miR-34a-5p (or miR-34a) molecule, namely, hBERA/miR-34a, to delineate the role of miR-34a-5p in the regulation of mitochondrial functions in human carcinoma cells. Bioengineered hBERA/miR-34a was produced through in vivo fermentation production and purified by anion exchange fast protein liquid chromatography. hEBRA/miR-34a was processed to target miR-34a-5p in human osteosarcoma and lung cancer cells, as determined by selective stem-loop reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis. The mitochondrial inner membrane protein MPV17 like 2 (MPV17L2) was validated as a direct target for miR-34a-5p by dual luciferase reporter assay. Western blot analysis revealed that bioengineered miR-34a-5p effectively reduced MPV17L2 protein outcomes, leading to much lower levels of respiratory chain Complex I activities and intracellular ATP that were determined with specific assay kits. Moreover, Seahorse Mito Stress Test assay was conducted, and the results showed that biologic miR-34a-5p sharply reduced cancer cell mitochondrial respiration capacity, accompanied by a remarkable increase of oxidative stress and elevated apoptotic cell death, which are manifested by greater levels of reactive oxygen species and selective apoptosis biomarkers, respectively. These results demonstrate the presence and involvement of the miR-34a-5p-MPV17L2 pathway in the control of mitochondrial functions in human carcinoma cells and support the utility of novel bioengineered miRNA molecules for functional studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wan-Rong Yi
- Department of Orthopaedic Trauma and Microsurgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Mei-Juan Tu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Ai-Xi Yu
- Department of Orthopaedic Trauma and Microsurgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jun Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology/Hepatology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Ai-Ming Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
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Papaefthymiou A, Doukatas A, Galanopoulos M. Pancreatic cancer and oligonucleotide therapy: Exploring novel therapeutic options and targeting chemoresistance. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2022; 46:101911. [PMID: 35346893 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2022.101911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) represents a malignancy with increased mortality rate, as less than 10% of patients survive for 5 years after diagnosis. Current evolution in basic sciences has revealed promising results by decrypting genetic loci vulnerable to mutations, as potential targets of novel treatment choices. In this regard, the "Oligonucleotide therapeutics", based on synthetic nucleotides, modify the function and expression of their targets. Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), small interfering RNA (siRNA), microRNAs (miRNAs), aptamers, CpG oligodeoxynucleotides and decoys comprise the main representatives of this emerging technology, by regulating oncogenes' expression, restoring DNA repairment mechanisms, sensitizing cancer cells in chemotherapy, and inhibiting PC progress. A plethora of genetic treatment molecules and respective targets have been described and are currently studied, thus providing a broad range of probable pharmaceutical options. This narrative review illuminates the main parameters of genetic treatment molecules for PC and underlines their deficiencies, to clarify the upcoming future and trigger further investigation in PC management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apostolis Papaefthymiou
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, 41110, Thessaly, Greece.
| | - Aris Doukatas
- Department of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Attiki, Greece
| | - Michail Galanopoulos
- Department of Gastroenterology, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom
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Wang Z, Zhang J, Zheng W, He Y. Long Non-Coding RNAs H19 and HOTAIR Implicated in Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. Front Genet 2022; 13:843599. [PMID: 35309146 PMCID: PMC8927764 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.843599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is the major cause of low back pain. We aimed to identify the key genes for IDD pathogenesis. Methods: An integrated analysis of microarray datasets of IDD archived in public Gene Expression Omnibus was performed. Bioinformatics analyses including identification of differentially expressed mRNAs/microRNAs/long non-coding RNAs (DEMs/DEMis/DELs), pathway enrichment, and competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network construction were performed to give insights into the potential functions of differentially expressed genes (DEGs, including DEMs, DEMis, and DELs). The diagnostic value of DEMis in distinguishing IDD from normal controls was evaluated through receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Results: DEGs were identified in IDD, including H19 and HOTAIR. In the DEMis–DEMs network of IDD, miR-1291, miR-4270, and miR-320b had high connectivity with targeted DEMs. Cell death biological processes and the JAK–STAT pathway were significantly enriched from targeted DEMs. The area under the curve (AUC) of 10 DEMs including miR-1273e, miR-623, miR-518b, and miR-1291 in ROC analysis was more than 0.8, which indicated that those 10 DEMs had diagnostic value in distinguishing IDD from normal individuals. Conclusions: DELs H19 and HOTAIR were related to IDD pathogenesis. Cell death biological processes and the JAK–STAT pathway might play key roles in IDD development.
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Tian Y, Zhao Y, Yin C, Tan S, Wang X, Yang C, Zhang TD, Zhang X, Ye F, Xu J, Wu X, Ding L, Zhang J, Pei J, Wang XT, Zhang RX, Xu J, Wang W, Filipe CD, Hoare T, Yin DC, Qian A, Deng X. Polyvinylamine with moderate binding affinity as a highly effective vehicle for RNA delivery. J Control Release 2022; 345:20-37. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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11
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Wang J, Yokoyama Y, Hirose H, Shimomura Y, Bonkobara S, Itakura H, Kouda S, Morimoto Y, Minami K, Takahashi H, Shibata S, Kobayashi S, Uemura M, Tanaka S, Wu X, Tanaka S, Mori M, Yamamoto H. Functional assessment of miR‑1291 in colon cancer cells. Int J Oncol 2022; 60:13. [PMID: 34981812 PMCID: PMC8759348 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2022.5303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
miR‑1291 exerts an anti‑tumor effect in a subset of human carcinomas, including pancreatic cancer. However, its role in colorectal cancer (CRC) is largely unknown. In the present study, the expression and effect of miR‑1291 in CRC cells was investigated. It was identified that miR‑1291 significantly suppressed the proliferation, invasion, cell mobility and colony formation of CRC cells. Additionally, miR‑1291 induced cell apoptosis. A luciferase reporter assay revealed that miR‑1291 directly bound the 3'‑untranslated region sequence of doublecortin‑like kinase 1 (DCLK1). miR‑1291 also suppressed DCLK1 mRNA and protein expression in HCT116 cells that expressed DCLK1. Furthermore, miR‑1291 suppressed cancer stem cell markers BMI1 and CD133, and inhibited sphere formation. The inhibitory effects on sphere formation, invasion and mobility in HCT116 cells were also explored and verified using DCLK1 siRNAs. Furthermore, miR‑1291 induced CDK inhibitors p21WAF1/CIP1 and p27KIP1 in three CRC cell lines, and the overexpression of DCLK1 in HCT116 cells led to a decrease of p21WAF1/CIP1 and p27KIP1. Intravenous administration of miR‑1291 loaded on the super carbonate apatite delivery system significantly inhibited tumor growth in the DLD‑1 xenograft mouse model. Additionally, the resultant tumors exhibited significant upregulation of the p21WAF1/CIP1 and p27KIP1 protein with treatment of miR‑1291. Taken together, the results indicated that miR‑1291 served an anti‑tumor effect by modulating multiple functions, including cancer stemness and cell cycle regulation. The current data suggested that miR‑1291 may be a promising nucleic acid medicine against CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Wang
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Division of Health Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yuhki Yokoyama
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Division of Health Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Haruka Hirose
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Division of Health Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yuki Shimomura
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Division of Health Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Saki Bonkobara
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Division of Health Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Itakura
- Department of Surgery and Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Shihori Kouda
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Division of Health Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Morimoto
- Department of Surgery and Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Kazumasa Minami
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Hidekazu Takahashi
- Department of Surgery and Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Satoshi Shibata
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Division of Health Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Shogo Kobayashi
- Department of Surgery and Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Mamoru Uemura
- Department of Surgery and Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Susumu Tanaka
- First Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Graduate School of Dentistry, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Xin Wu
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Division of Health Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Shinji Tanaka
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
- Department of Hepato-Billiary-Pancreatic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
| | - Masaki Mori
- Tokai University, Graduate School of Medicine, Isehara, Kanagawa 259-1193, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Yamamoto
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Division of Health Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- Department of Surgery and Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
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12
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Tu MJ, Yi CM, Traber GM, Yu AM. Bioengineered RNA Therapy in Patient-Derived Organoids and Xenograft Mouse Models. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2521:191-206. [PMID: 35732999 PMCID: PMC9484490 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2441-8_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Therapeutic RNAs, such as antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), aptamers, small-interfering RNAs (siRNAs), microRNAs (miRs or miRNAs), messenger RNAs (mRNAs), and guide RNAs (gRNAs), represent a novel class of modalities that not only increase the molecular diversity of medications but also expand the range of druggable targets. To develop noncoding RNA therapeutics for the treatment of cancer diseases, we have established a novel robust RNA bioengineering platform to achieve high-yield and large-scale production of true biologic RNA agents, which are proven to be functional in the control of target gene expression and effective in the management of tumor progression in various models. Herein, we describe the methods for bioengineered RNA (BioRNA or BERA) therapy in patient-derived organoids (PDOs) in vitro and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) mouse models in vivo. The efficacy of a BioRNA, miR-1291, in the inhibition of pancreatic cancer PDO and PDX growth is exemplified in this chapter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei-Juan Tu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Colleen M Yi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Gavin M Traber
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Ai-Ming Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA.
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13
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Deng L, Petrek H, Tu MJ, Batra N, Yu AX, Yu AM. Bioengineered miR-124-3p prodrug selectively alters the proteome of human carcinoma cells to control multiple cellular components and lung metastasis in vivo. Acta Pharm Sin B 2021; 11:3950-3965. [PMID: 35024318 PMCID: PMC8727917 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2021.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
With the understanding of microRNA (miRNA or miR) functions in tumor initiation, progression, and metastasis, efforts are underway to develop new miRNA-based therapies. Very recently, we demonstrated effectiveness of a novel humanized bioengineered miR-124-3p prodrug in controlling spontaneous lung metastasis in mouse models. This study was to investigate the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which miR-124-3p controls tumor metastasis. Proteomics study identified a set of proteins selectively and significantly downregulated by bioengineered miR-124-3p in A549 cells, which were assembled into multiple cellular components critical for metastatic potential. Among them, plectin (PLEC) was verified as a new direct target for miR-124-3p that links cytoskeleton components and junctions. In miR-124-3p-treated lung cancer and osteosarcoma cells, protein levels of vimentin, talin 1 (TLN1), integrin beta-1 (ITGB1), IQ motif containing GTPase activating protein 1 (IQGAP1), cadherin 2 or N-cadherin (CDH2), and junctional adhesion molecule A (F11R or JAMA or JAM1) decreased, causing remodeling of cytoskeletons and disruption of cell-cell junctions. Furthermore, miR-124-3p sharply suppressed the formation of focal adhesion plaques, leading to reduced cell adhesion capacity. Additionally, efficacy and safety of biologic miR-124-3p therapy was established in an aggressive experimental metastasis mouse model in vivo. These results connect miR-124-3p-PLEC signaling to other elements in the control of cytoskeleton, cell junctions, and adhesion essential for cancer cell invasion and extravasation towards metastasis, and support the promise of miR-124 therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linglong Deng
- Department of Orthopaedic Trauma and Microsurgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Hannah Petrek
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Mei-Juan Tu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Neelu Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Ai-Xi Yu
- Department of Orthopaedic Trauma and Microsurgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Ai-Ming Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
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14
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Lei S, Zeng Z, He Z, Cao W. miRNA‑7515 suppresses pancreatic cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion via downregulating IGF‑1 expression. Oncol Rep 2021; 46:200. [PMID: 34296285 PMCID: PMC8317166 DOI: 10.3892/or.2021.8151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a lethal malignancy of the gastrointestinal tract. Previous studies have reported that microRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) are involved in the tumorigenesis of PC. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the effects of miR‑7515 on PC cell proliferation, invasion and migration in vitro and in vivo, and investigate its underlying molecular mechanism using bioinformatics, double luciferase assay and western blotting. The results revealed that the expression levels of miR‑7515 were downregulated in PC, which predicted a poor clinical outcome. The overexpression of miR‑7515 significantly decreased the proliferation, invasive and migratory abilities of PC cells in vitro and in vivo, while the knockdown of miR‑7515 exerted the opposite effects. miR‑7515 was identified to directly bind to insulin‑like growth factor 1 (IGF‑1) and downregulate its expression, which subsequently downregulated the Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK signalling pathway. The overexpression of IGF‑1 reversed the inhibitory effects of miR‑7515 overexpression on PC cells. In conclusion, the findings of the present study indicated that miR‑7515 may act as a tumor suppressor in PC, as it repressed PC cell proliferation invasion and migration via downregulating the expression of IGF‑1 and the activity of the Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK signalling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Lei
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550009, P.R. China
| | - Zhirui Zeng
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550009, P.R. China
| | - Zhiwei He
- Department of Hepatic-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550009, P.R. China
| | - Wenpeng Cao
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550009, P.R. China
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550009, P.R. China
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15
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Liu X, Guo X, Zhou H. Octreotide acetate combined with somatostatin upregulates miR-1291 and downregulates miR-331-3p in patients with cirrhosis and upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Am J Transl Res 2021; 13:9883-9891. [PMID: 34540125 PMCID: PMC8430138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explore the efficacy of octreotide acetate combined with somatostatin (OA + SS) for the treatment of patients with cirrhosis and upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB). METHODS A total of 118 patients with cirrhosis and UGIB in our hospital were enrolled from June 2018 to September 2019. Fifty-seven were treated with OA alone (Group A) whereas 61 were treated with OA + SS (Group B). RESULTS The therapeutic effects, inflammatory cytokines, liver function indices, and relative expression levels of miR-1291 and miR-331-3p were then observed. Compared with the patients in Group A, those in Group B had lower post-treatment inflammatory cytokine levels (P < 0.05), better post-treatment liver function indices (P < 0.05), lower incidences of adverse reactions (P < 0.05), and a higher total effective rate (P < 0.05). The OA + SS treatment group had upregulated miR-1291 and downregulated miR-331-3p (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION OA + SS therapy is safe and effective for the treatment of patients with cirrhosis and UGIB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University of EngineeringHandan 056002, Hebei, China
| | - Xiaohui Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University of EngineeringHandan 056002, Hebei, China
| | - Hu Zhou
- Department of Function, HanDan Central HospitalHandan 056001, Hebei, China
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16
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Yu AM, Tu MJ. Deliver the promise: RNAs as a new class of molecular entities for therapy and vaccination. Pharmacol Ther 2021; 230:107967. [PMID: 34403681 PMCID: PMC9477512 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2021.107967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The concepts of developing RNAs as new molecular entities for therapies have arisen again and again since the discoveries of antisense RNAs, direct RNA-protein interactions, functional noncoding RNAs, and RNA-directed gene editing. The feasibility was demonstrated with the development and utilization of synthetic RNA agents to selectively control target gene expression, modulate protein functions or alter the genome to manage diseases. Rather, RNAs are labile to degradation and cannot cross cell membrane barriers, making it hard to develop RNA medications. With the development of viable RNA technologies, such as chemistry and pharmaceutics, eight antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) (fomivirsen, mipomersen, eteplirsen, nusinersen, inotersen, golodirsen, viltolarsen and casimersen), one aptamer (pegaptanib), and three small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) (patisiran, givosiran and lumasiran) have been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for therapies, and two mRNA vaccines (BNT162b2 and mRNA-1273) under Emergency Use Authorization for the prevention of COVID-19. Therefore, RNAs have become a great addition to small molecules, proteins/antibodies, and cell-based modalities to improve the public health. In this article, we first summarize the general characteristics of therapeutic RNA agents, including chemistry, common delivery strategies, mechanisms of actions, and safety. By overviewing individual RNA medications and vaccines approved by the FDA and some agents under development, we illustrate the unique compositions and pharmacological actions of RNA products. A new era of RNA research and development will likely lead to commercialization of more RNA agents for medical use, expanding the range of therapeutic targets and increasing the diversity of molecular modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ai-Ming Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA.
| | - Mei-Juan Tu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
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17
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Yao J, Yang M, Atteh L, Liu P, Mao Y, Meng W, Li X. A pancreas tumor derived organoid study: from drug screen to precision medicine. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:398. [PMID: 34315500 PMCID: PMC8314636 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-02044-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) one of the deadliest malignant tumor. Despite considerable progress in pancreatic cancer treatment in the past 10 years, PDAC mortality has shown no appreciable change, and systemic therapies for PDAC generally lack efficacy. Thus, developing biomarkers for treatment guidance is urgently required. This review focuses on pancreatic tumor organoids (PTOs), which can mimic the characteristics of the original tumor in vitro. As a powerful tool with several applications, PTOs represent a new strategy for targeted therapy in pancreatic cancer and contribute to the advancement of the field of personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Yao
- Key Laboratory of Biological Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Transformation of Gansu Province, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Man Yang
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Lawrence Atteh
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Pinyan Liu
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Yongcui Mao
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Wenbo Meng
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, The First Clinical Medical School of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.
| | - Xun Li
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, The First Clinical Medical School of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
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18
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Comparison of different protocols of RNA preparation from circulating blood for RNA sequencing. Biotechnol Lett 2021; 43:1685-1698. [PMID: 34173130 DOI: 10.1007/s10529-021-03152-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Circulating miRNAs have been extensively used in studies of neurological diseases. Thus, methods to extract high quantity total RNA for RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) are needed. However, the extraction of sufficient high-quality nucleic acids from circulating blood is difficult. Differences in eccentricity, cryopreservation conditions and extraction methods may affect RNA quantity and quality. Here, we systematically compared six blood-RNA extraction protocols (protocols 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6; see the methods section for details). RESULTS Protocol 1 yielded the highest quality and quantity of RNA; protocol 2, protocol 5 and protocol 6 produced RNA of intermediate quality; and protocols 3 and 4 yielded the lowest quality RNA. The RNA integrity number (RIN) for isolated RNA was > 9.0 when protocol 1 or protocol 2 was used, > 8.0 when protocol 5 was used, and > 7.0 when protocol 6 was used; lower values were obtained when protocol 3 or 4 was used. The RNA extracted from circulating blood using protocol 1 was most intact and suitable for RT-qPCR and RNA-seq. CONCLUSIONS The quality of RNA extracted from circulating blood is affected by high-speed centrifugation and cryopreservation. Adding an RNA stabilizer during the cryopreservation of circulating blood significantly improved RNA quality and quantity. The quality of extracted RNA from circulating blood is improved when using TRIzol relative to that attained with a commercial kit.
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19
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Wang L, Sun X, Jin C, Fan Y, Xue F. Identification of Tumor Microenvironment-Related Prognostic Biomarkers for Ovarian Serous Cancer 3-Year Mortality Using Targeted Maximum Likelihood Estimation: A TCGA Data Mining Study. Front Genet 2021; 12:625145. [PMID: 34149794 PMCID: PMC8211425 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.625145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian serous cancer (OSC) is one of the leading causes of death across the world. The role of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in OSC has received increasing attention. Targeted maximum likelihood estimation (TMLE) is developed under a counterfactual framework to produce effect estimation for both the population level and individual level. In this study, we aim to identify TME-related genes and using the TMLE method to estimate their effects on the 3-year mortality of OSC. In total, 285 OSC patients from the TCGA database constituted the studying population. ESTIMATE algorithm was implemented to evaluate immune and stromal components in TME. Differential analysis between high-score and low-score groups regarding ImmuneScore and StromalScore was performed to select shared differential expressed genes (DEGs). Univariate logistic regression analysis was followed to evaluate associations between DEGs and clinical pathologic factors with 3-year mortality. TMLE analysis was conducted to estimate the average effect (AE), individual effect (IE), and marginal odds ratio (MOR). The validation was performed using three datasets from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Additionally, 355 DEGs were selected after differential analysis, and 12 genes from DEGs were significant after univariate logistic regression. Four genes remained significant after TMLE analysis. In specific, ARID3C and FREM2 were negatively correlated with OSC 3-year mortality. CROCC2 and PTF1A were positively correlated with OSC 3-year mortality. Combining of ESTIMATE algorithm and TMLE algorithm, we identified four TME-related genes in OSC. AEs were estimated to provide averaged effects based on the population level, while IEs were estimated to provide individualized effects and may be helpful for precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Wang
- Institute for Medical Dataology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiaoru Sun
- Institute for Medical Dataology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Chuandi Jin
- Institute for Medical Dataology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yue Fan
- Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Endemic Diseases, National Health and Family Planning Commission, School of Public Health, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Fuzhong Xue
- Institute for Medical Dataology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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20
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Petrek H, Yan Ho P, Batra N, Tu MJ, Zhang Q, Qiu JX, Yu AM. Single bioengineered ncRNA molecule for dual-targeting toward the control of non-small cell lung cancer patient-derived xenograft tumor growth. Biochem Pharmacol 2021; 189:114392. [PMID: 33359565 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.114392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide and accounts for more than 22% of all cancer-related deaths in the US. Developing new therapies is essential to combat against deadly lung cancer, especially the most common type, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). With the discovery of genome-derived functional small noncoding RNA (ncRNA), namely microRNAs (miRNA or miR), restoration of oncolytic miRNAs lost or downregulated in NSCLC cells represents a new therapeutic strategy. Very recently, we have developed a novel technology that achieves in vivo fermentation production of bioengineered miRNA agents (BERA) for research and development. In this study, we aimed at simultaneously introducing two miRNAs into NSCLC cells by using single recombinant "combinatorial BERA" (CO-BERA) molecule. Our studies show that single CO-BERA molecule (e.g., let-7c/miR-124) was successfully processed to two miRNAs (e.g., let-7c-5p and miR-124-3p) to combinatorially regulate the expression of multiple targets (e.g., RAS, VAMP3 and CDK6) in human NSCLC cells, exhibiting greater efficacy than respective BERA miRNAs in the inhibition of cell viability and colony formation. Furthermore, we demonstrate that CO-BERA let-7c/miR-124-loaded lipopolyplex nanomedicine was the most effective among tested RNAs in the control of tumor growth in NSCLC patient-derived xenograft mouse models. The anti-tumor activity of CO-BERA let-7c/miR-124 was associated with the suppression of RAS and CDK6 expression, and enhancement of apoptosis. These results support the concept to use single ncRNA agent for dual-targeting and offer insight into developing new RNA therapeutics for the treatment of lethal NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Petrek
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Pui Yan Ho
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Neelu Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Mei-Juan Tu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Qianyu Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Jing-Xin Qiu
- Department of Pathology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA
| | - Ai-Ming Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA.
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21
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Tu MJ, Wright HK, Batra N, Yu AM. Expression and Purification of tRNA/ pre-miRNA-Based Recombinant Noncoding RNAs. Methods Mol Biol 2021; 2323:249-265. [PMID: 34086286 PMCID: PMC9516694 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1499-0_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Research on RNA function and therapeutic potential is dominated by the use of chemoengineered RNA mimics. Recent efforts have led to the establishment of novel technologies for the production of recombinant or bioengineered RNA molecules, which should better recapitulate the structures, functions and safety profiles of natural RNAs because both are produced and folded in living cells. Herein, we describe a robust approach for reproducible fermentation production of bioengineered RNA agents (BERAs) carrying warhead miRNAs, siRNAs, aptamers, or other forms of small RNAs, based upon an optimal hybrid tRNA/pre-miRNA carrier. Target BERA/sRNAs are readily purified by fast protein liquid chromatography (FPLC) to a high degree of homogeneity (>97%). This approach offers a consistent high-level expression (>30% of total bacterial RNAs) and large-scale production of ready-to-use BERAs (multiple to tens milligrams from 1 L bacterial culture).
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22
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Tu MJ, Duan Z, Liu Z, Zhang C, Bold RJ, Gonzalez FJ, Kim EJ, Yu AM. MicroRNA-1291-5p Sensitizes Pancreatic Carcinoma Cells to Arginine Deprivation and Chemotherapy through the Regulation of Arginolysis and Glycolysis. Mol Pharmacol 2020; 98:686-694. [PMID: 33051382 PMCID: PMC7673485 DOI: 10.1124/molpharm.120.000130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells are dysregulated and addicted to continuous supply and metabolism of nutritional glucose and amino acids (e.g., arginine) to drive the synthesis of critical macromolecules for uncontrolled growth. Recent studies have revealed that genome-derived microRNA (miRNA or miR)-1291-5p (miR-1291-5p or miR-1291) may modulate the expression of argininosuccinate synthase (ASS1) and glucose transporter protein type 1 (GLUT1). We also developed a novel approach to produce recombinant miR-1291 agents for research, which are distinguished from conventional chemo-engineered miRNA mimics. Herein, we firstly demonstrated that bioengineered miR-1291 agent was selectively processed to high levels of target miR-1291-5p in human pancreatic cancer (PC) cells. After the suppression of ASS1 protein levels, miR-1291 perturbed arginine homeostasis and preferably sensitized ASS1-abundant L3.3 cells to arginine deprivation therapy. In addition, miR-1291 treatment reduced the protein levels of GLUT1 in both AsPC-1 and PANC-1 cells, leading to a lower glucose uptake (deceased > 40%) and glycolysis capacity (reduced approximately 50%). As a result, miR-1291 largely improved cisplatin efficacy in the inhibition of PC cell viability. Our results demonstrated that miR-1291 was effective to sensitize PC cells to arginine deprivation treatment and chemotherapy through targeting ASS1- and GLUT1-mediated arginolysis and glycolysis, respectively, which may provide insights into understanding miRNA signaling underlying cancer cell metabolism and development of new strategies for the treatment of lethal PC. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Many anticancer drugs in clinical use and under investigation exert pharmacological effects or improve efficacy of coadministered medications by targeting cancer cell metabolism. Using new recombinant miR-1291 agent, we revealed that miR-1291 acts as a metabolism modulator in pancreatic carcinoma cells through the regulation of argininosuccinate synthase- and glucose transporter protein type 1-mediated arginolysis and glycolysis. Consequently, miR-1291 effectively enhanced the efficacy of arginine deprivation (pegylated arginine deiminase) and chemotherapy (cisplatin), offering new insights into development of rational combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei-Juan Tu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine (M.-J.T., Z.D., Z.L., C.Z., A.-M.Y.), Division of Surgical Oncology (R.J.B.), Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine (E.J.K.), University of California (UC) Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California; and Laboratory of Metabolism, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland (F.J.G.)
| | - Zhijian Duan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine (M.-J.T., Z.D., Z.L., C.Z., A.-M.Y.), Division of Surgical Oncology (R.J.B.), Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine (E.J.K.), University of California (UC) Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California; and Laboratory of Metabolism, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland (F.J.G.)
| | - Zhenzhen Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine (M.-J.T., Z.D., Z.L., C.Z., A.-M.Y.), Division of Surgical Oncology (R.J.B.), Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine (E.J.K.), University of California (UC) Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California; and Laboratory of Metabolism, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland (F.J.G.)
| | - Chao Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine (M.-J.T., Z.D., Z.L., C.Z., A.-M.Y.), Division of Surgical Oncology (R.J.B.), Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine (E.J.K.), University of California (UC) Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California; and Laboratory of Metabolism, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland (F.J.G.)
| | - Richard J Bold
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine (M.-J.T., Z.D., Z.L., C.Z., A.-M.Y.), Division of Surgical Oncology (R.J.B.), Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine (E.J.K.), University of California (UC) Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California; and Laboratory of Metabolism, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland (F.J.G.)
| | - Frank J Gonzalez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine (M.-J.T., Z.D., Z.L., C.Z., A.-M.Y.), Division of Surgical Oncology (R.J.B.), Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine (E.J.K.), University of California (UC) Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California; and Laboratory of Metabolism, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland (F.J.G.)
| | - Edward J Kim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine (M.-J.T., Z.D., Z.L., C.Z., A.-M.Y.), Division of Surgical Oncology (R.J.B.), Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine (E.J.K.), University of California (UC) Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California; and Laboratory of Metabolism, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland (F.J.G.)
| | - Ai-Ming Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine (M.-J.T., Z.D., Z.L., C.Z., A.-M.Y.), Division of Surgical Oncology (R.J.B.), Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine (E.J.K.), University of California (UC) Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California; and Laboratory of Metabolism, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland (F.J.G.)
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23
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Hashemi A, Gorji-Bahri G. MicroRNA: Promising Roles in Cancer Therapy. Curr Pharm Biotechnol 2020; 21:1186-1203. [PMID: 32310047 DOI: 10.2174/1389201021666200420101613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNA) are small non-coding RNAs that act as one of the main regulators of gene expression. They are involved in maintaining a proper balance of diverse processes, including differentiation, proliferation, and cell death in normal cells. Cancer biology can also be affected by these molecules by modulating the expression of oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes. Thus, miRNA based anticancer therapy is currently being developed either alone or in combination with chemotherapy agents used in cancer management, aiming at promoting tumor regression and increasing cure rate. Access to large quantities of RNA agents can facilitate RNA research and development. In addition to currently used in vitro methods, fermentation-based approaches have recently been developed, which can cost-effectively produce biological RNA agents with proper folding needed for the development of RNA-based therapeutics. Nevertheless, a major challenge in translating preclinical studies to clinical for miRNA-based cancer therapy is the efficient delivery of these agents to target cells. Targeting miRNAs/anti-miRNAs using antibodies and/or peptides can minimize cellular and systemic toxicity. Here, we provide a brief review of miRNA in the following aspects: biogenesis and mechanism of action of miRNAs, the role of miRNAs in cancer as tumor suppressors or oncogenes, the potential of using miRNAs as novel and promising therapeutics, miRNA-mediated chemo-sensitization, and currently utilized methods for the in vitro and in vivo production of RNA agents. Finally, an update on the viral and non-viral delivery systems is addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atieh Hashemi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Gilar Gorji-Bahri
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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24
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Lin Z, Lu S, Xie X, Yi X, Huang H. Noncoding RNAs in drug-resistant pancreatic cancer: A review. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 131:110768. [PMID: 33152930 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.110768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is the fourth-leading cause of cancer-related deaths and is expected to be the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Europe and the United States by 2030. The high fatality rate of pancreatic cancer is ascribed to untimely diagnosis, early metastasis and limited responses to both chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Although gemcitabine, 5-fluorouracil and some other drugs can profoundly improve patient prognosis, most pancreatic cancer patients eventually develop drug resistance, leading to poor clinical outcomes. The underlying mechanisms of pancreatic cancer drug resistance are complicated and inconclusive. Interestingly, accumulating evidence has demonstrated that different noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), such as microRNAs (miRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs), play a crucial role in pancreatic cancer resistance to chemotherapy reagents. In this paper, we systematically summarize the molecular mechanism underlying the influence of ncRNAs on the generation and development of drug resistance in pancreatic cancer and discuss the potential role of ncRNAs as prognostic markers and new therapeutic targets for pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengjun Lin
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan Province, China.
| | - Shiyao Lu
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan Province, China.
| | - Xubin Xie
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan Province, China.
| | - Xuyang Yi
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan Province, China.
| | - He Huang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan Province, China; State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence Diseases in Central Asia, School of Pre-Clinical Medicine/ Second Affiliated Hospital, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, 830011, China.
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25
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Jilek JL, Tu MJ, Zhang C, Yu AM. Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Factors Contribute to Synergism between Let-7c-5p and 5-Fluorouracil in Inhibiting Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Viability. Drug Metab Dispos 2020; 48:1257-1263. [PMID: 33051247 PMCID: PMC7684025 DOI: 10.1124/dmd.120.000207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Pharmacological interventions for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are hindered by complex factors, and rational combination therapy may be developed to improve therapeutic outcomes. Very recently, we have identified a bioengineered microRNA let-7c-5p (or let-7c) agent as an effective inhibitor against HCC in vitro and in vivo. In this study, we sought to identify small-molecule drugs that may synergistically act with let-7c against HCC. Interestingly, we found that let-7c exhibited a strong synergism with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in the inhibition of HCC cell viability as manifested by average combination indices of 0.3 and 0.5 in Hep3B and Huh7 cells, respectively. By contrast, coadministration of let-7c with doxorubicin or sorafenib inhibited HCC cell viability with, rather surprisingly, no or minimal synergy. Further studies showed that protein levels of multidrug resistance–associated protein (MRP) ATP-binding cassette subfamily C member 5 (MRP5/ABCC5), a 5-FU efflux transporter, were reduced around 50% by let-7c in HCC cells. This led to a greater degree of intracellular accumulation of 5-FU in Huh7 cells as well as the second messenger cyclic adenosine monophosphate, an endogenous substrate of MRP5. Since 5-FU is an irreversible inhibitor of thymidylate synthetase (TS), we investigated the interactions of let-7c with 5-FU at pharmacodynamic level. Interestingly, our data revealed that let-7c significantly reduced TS protein levels in Huh7 cells, which was associated with the suppression of upstream transcriptional factors as well as other regulatory factors. Collectively, these results indicate that let-7c interacts with 5-FU at both pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic levels, and these findings shall offer insight into molecular mechanisms of synergistic drug combinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph L Jilek
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California, Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California
| | - Mei-Juan Tu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California, Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California
| | - Chao Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California, Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California
| | - Ai-Ming Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California, Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California
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26
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Yu AM, Choi YH, Tu MJ. RNA Drugs and RNA Targets for Small Molecules: Principles, Progress, and Challenges. Pharmacol Rev 2020; 72:862-898. [PMID: 32929000 PMCID: PMC7495341 DOI: 10.1124/pr.120.019554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 179] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA-based therapies, including RNA molecules as drugs and RNA-targeted small molecules, offer unique opportunities to expand the range of therapeutic targets. Various forms of RNAs may be used to selectively act on proteins, transcripts, and genes that cannot be targeted by conventional small molecules or proteins. Although development of RNA drugs faces unparalleled challenges, many strategies have been developed to improve RNA metabolic stability and intracellular delivery. A number of RNA drugs have been approved for medical use, including aptamers (e.g., pegaptanib) that mechanistically act on protein target and small interfering RNAs (e.g., patisiran and givosiran) and antisense oligonucleotides (e.g., inotersen and golodirsen) that directly interfere with RNA targets. Furthermore, guide RNAs are essential components of novel gene editing modalities, and mRNA therapeutics are under development for protein replacement therapy or vaccination, including those against unprecedented severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus pandemic. Moreover, functional RNAs or RNA motifs are highly structured to form binding pockets or clefts that are accessible by small molecules. Many natural, semisynthetic, or synthetic antibiotics (e.g., aminoglycosides, tetracyclines, macrolides, oxazolidinones, and phenicols) can directly bind to ribosomal RNAs to achieve the inhibition of bacterial infections. Therefore, there is growing interest in developing RNA-targeted small-molecule drugs amenable to oral administration, and some (e.g., risdiplam and branaplam) have entered clinical trials. Here, we review the pharmacology of novel RNA drugs and RNA-targeted small-molecule medications, with a focus on recent progresses and strategies. Challenges in the development of novel druggable RNA entities and identification of viable RNA targets and selective small-molecule binders are discussed. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: With the understanding of RNA functions and critical roles in diseases, as well as the development of RNA-related technologies, there is growing interest in developing novel RNA-based therapeutics. This comprehensive review presents pharmacology of both RNA drugs and RNA-targeted small-molecule medications, focusing on novel mechanisms of action, the most recent progress, and existing challenges.
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MESH Headings
- Aptamers, Nucleotide/pharmacology
- Aptamers, Nucleotide/therapeutic use
- Betacoronavirus
- COVID-19
- Chemistry Techniques, Analytical/methods
- Chemistry Techniques, Analytical/standards
- Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats
- Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy
- Drug Delivery Systems/methods
- Drug Development/organization & administration
- Drug Discovery
- Humans
- MicroRNAs/pharmacology
- MicroRNAs/therapeutic use
- Oligonucleotides, Antisense/pharmacology
- Oligonucleotides, Antisense/therapeutic use
- Pandemics
- Pneumonia, Viral/drug therapy
- RNA/adverse effects
- RNA/drug effects
- RNA/pharmacology
- RNA, Antisense/pharmacology
- RNA, Antisense/therapeutic use
- RNA, Messenger/drug effects
- RNA, Messenger/pharmacology
- RNA, Ribosomal/drug effects
- RNA, Ribosomal/pharmacology
- RNA, Small Interfering/pharmacology
- RNA, Small Interfering/therapeutic use
- RNA, Viral/drug effects
- Ribonucleases/metabolism
- Riboswitch/drug effects
- SARS-CoV-2
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Affiliation(s)
- Ai-Ming Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California (A.-M.Y., Y.H.C., M.-J.T.) and College of Pharmacy and Integrated Research Institute for Drug Development, Dongguk University-Seoul, Goyang-si, Gyonggi-do, Republic of Korea (Y.H.C.)
| | - Young Hee Choi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California (A.-M.Y., Y.H.C., M.-J.T.) and College of Pharmacy and Integrated Research Institute for Drug Development, Dongguk University-Seoul, Goyang-si, Gyonggi-do, Republic of Korea (Y.H.C.)
| | - Mei-Juan Tu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California (A.-M.Y., Y.H.C., M.-J.T.) and College of Pharmacy and Integrated Research Institute for Drug Development, Dongguk University-Seoul, Goyang-si, Gyonggi-do, Republic of Korea (Y.H.C.)
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27
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He B, Zhao Z, Cai Q, Zhang Y, Zhang P, Shi S, Xie H, Peng X, Yin W, Tao Y, Wang X. miRNA-based biomarkers, therapies, and resistance in Cancer. Int J Biol Sci 2020; 16:2628-2647. [PMID: 32792861 PMCID: PMC7415433 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.47203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 256] [Impact Index Per Article: 64.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs), small non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) of about 22 nucleotides in size, play important roles in gene regulation, and their dysregulation is implicated in human diseases including cancer. A variety of miRNAs could take roles in the cancer progression, participate in the process of tumor immune, and function with miRNA sponges. During the last two decades, the connection between miRNAs and various cancers has been widely researched. Based on evidence about miRNA, numerous potential cancer biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis have been put forward, providing a new perspective on cancer screening. Besides, there are several miRNA-based therapies among different cancers being conducted, advanced treatments such as the combination of synergistic strategies and the use of complementary miRNAs provide significant clinical benefits to cancer patients potentially. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that many miRNAs are engaged in the resistance of cancer therapies with their complex underlying regulatory mechanisms, whose comprehensive cognition can help clinicians and improve patient prognosis. With the belief that studies about miRNAs in human cancer would have great clinical implications, we attempt to summarize the current situation and potential development prospects in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boxue He
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Early Diagnosis and Precision Therapy, Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Zhenyu Zhao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Early Diagnosis and Precision Therapy, Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Qidong Cai
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Early Diagnosis and Precision Therapy, Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Yuqian Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Early Diagnosis and Precision Therapy, Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Early Diagnosis and Precision Therapy, Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Shuai Shi
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Early Diagnosis and Precision Therapy, Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Hui Xie
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Early Diagnosis and Precision Therapy, Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Xiong Peng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Early Diagnosis and Precision Therapy, Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Wei Yin
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Early Diagnosis and Precision Therapy, Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Yongguang Tao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Early Diagnosis and Precision Therapy, Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Hunan, 410078 China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis (Central South University), Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410078 China
| | - Xiang Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Early Diagnosis and Precision Therapy, Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
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28
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Chen Y, Zhou Y, Han F, Zhao Y, Tu M, Wang Y, Huang C, Fan S, Chen P, Yao X, Guan L, Yu AM, Gonzalez FJ, Huang M, Bi H. A novel miR-1291-ERRα-CPT1C axis modulates tumor cell proliferation, metabolism and tumorigenesis. Theranostics 2020; 10:7193-7210. [PMID: 32641987 PMCID: PMC7330864 DOI: 10.7150/thno.44877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Rationale: MicroRNAs are known to influence the development of a variety of cancers. Previous studies revealed that miR-1291 has antiproliferative functions in cancer cells. Carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1C (CPT1C) has a vital role in mitochondrial energy metabolism and modulation of cancer cell proliferation. Since both miR-1291 and CPT1C regulate tumor cell metabolism and cancer progression, we hypothesized that they might be regulated synergistically. Methods: A series of cell phenotype indicators, such as BrdU, colony formation, cell cycle, ATP production, ROS accumulation and cell ability to resist metabolic stress, were performed to clarify the effects of miR-1291 and ERRα expression on tumor cell proliferation and metabolism. A xenograft tumor model was used to evaluate cell tumorigenesis. Meta-analysis and bioinformatic prediction were applied in the search for the bridge-link between miR-1291 and CPT1C. RT-qPCR, western-blot and IHC analysis were used for the detection of mRNA and protein expression. Luciferase assays and ChIP assays were conducted for in-depth mechanism studies. Results: The expression of miR-1291 inhibited growth and tumorigenesis as a result of modulation of metabolism. CPT1C expression was indirectly and negatively correlated with miR-1291 levels. ESRRA was identified as a prominent differentially expressed gene in both breast and pancreatic cancer samples, and estrogen-related receptor α (ERRα) was found to link miR-1291 and CPT1C. MiR-1291 targeted ERRα and CPT1C was identified as a newly described ERRα target gene. Moreover, ERRα was found to influence cancer cell metabolism and proliferation, consistent with the cellular changes caused by miR-1291. Conclusion: This study demonstrated the existence and mechanism of action of a novel miR-1291-ERRα-CPT1C cancer metabolism axis that may provide new insights and strategies for the development of miRNA-based therapies for malignant cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixin Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China 510006
| | - Yanying Zhou
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China 510006
| | - Fangwei Han
- School of Public Health, UNT Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA
| | - Yingyuan Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China 510006
| | - Meijuan Tu
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Yongtao Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China 510006
| | - Can Huang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China 510006
| | - Shicheng Fan
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China 510006
| | - Panpan Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China 510006
| | - Xinpeng Yao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China 510006
| | - Lihuan Guan
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China 510006
| | - Ai-Ming Yu
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Frank J. Gonzalez
- Laboratory of Metabolism, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Min Huang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China 510006
| | - Huichang Bi
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China 510006
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29
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Laham-Karam N, Pinto GP, Poso A, Kokkonen P. Transcription and Translation Inhibitors in Cancer Treatment. Front Chem 2020; 8:276. [PMID: 32373584 PMCID: PMC7186406 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2020.00276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcription and translation are fundamental cellular processes that govern the protein production of cells. These processes are generally up regulated in cancer cells, to maintain the enhanced metabolism and proliferative state of these cells. As such cancerous cells can be susceptible to transcription and translation inhibitors. There are numerous druggable proteins involved in transcription and translation which make lucrative targets for cancer drug development. In addition to proteins, recent years have shown that the "undruggable" transcription factors and RNA molecules can also be targeted to hamper the transcription or translation in cancer. In this review, we summarize the properties and function of the transcription and translation inhibitors that have been tested and developed, focusing on the advances of the last 5 years. To complement this, we also discuss some of the recent advances in targeting oncogenes tightly controlling transcription including transcription factors and KRAS. In addition to natural and synthetic compounds, we review DNA and RNA based approaches to develop cancer drugs. Finally, we conclude with the outlook to the future of the development of transcription and translation inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nihay Laham-Karam
- A. I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Gaspar P. Pinto
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne University Hospital, Brno, Czechia
- Loschmidt Laboratories, Department of Experimental Biology and RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Antti Poso
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- University Hospital Tübingen, Department of Internal Medicine VIII, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Piia Kokkonen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
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30
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Yu AM, Batra N, Tu MJ, Sweeney C. Novel approaches for efficient in vivo fermentation production of noncoding RNAs. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2020; 104:1927-1937. [PMID: 31953559 PMCID: PMC7385725 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-020-10350-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 12/26/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Genome-derived noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs), small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), play an essential role in the control of target gene expression underlying various cellular processes, and dysregulation of ncRNAs is involved in the pathogenesis and progression of various diseases in virtually all species including humans. Understanding ncRNA biology has opened new avenues to develop novel RNA-based therapeutics. Presently, ncRNA research and drug development is dominated by the use of ncRNA mimics that are synthesized chemically in vitro and supplemented with extensive and various types of artificial modifications and thus may not necessarily recapitulate the properties of natural RNAs generated and folded in living cells in vivo. Therefore, there are growing interests in developing novel technologies for in vivo production of RNA molecules. The two most recent major breakthroughs in achieving an efficient, large-scale, and cost-effective fermentation production of recombinant or bioengineered RNAs (e.g., tens of milligrams from 1 L of bacterial culture) are (1) using stable RNA carriers and (2) direct overexpression in RNase III-deficient bacteria, while other approaches offer a low yield (e.g., nano- to microgram scales per liter). In this article, we highlight these novel microbial fermentation-based technologies that have shifted the paradigm to the production of true biological ncRNA molecules for research and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ai-Ming Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA.
| | - Neelu Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA
| | - Mei-Juan Tu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA
| | - Colleen Sweeney
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA
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31
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Li DF, Yuan Y, Tu MJ, Hu X, Li YZ, Yi WR, Li PC, Zhao Y, Cheng Z, Yu AM, Jian C, Yu AX. The Optimal Outcome of Suppressing Ewing Sarcoma Growth in vivo With Biocompatible Bioengineered miR-34a-5p Prodrug. Front Oncol 2020; 10:222. [PMID: 32161722 PMCID: PMC7052494 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.00222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Being the second most common type of primary bone malignancy in children and adolescents, Ewing Sarcoma (ES) encounters the dilemma of low survival rate with a lack of effective treatments. As an emerging approach to combat cancer, RNA therapeutics may expand the range of druggable targets. Since the genome-derived oncolytic microRNA-34a (miR-34a) is down-regulated in ES, restoration of miR-34a-5p expression or function represents a new therapeutic strategy which is, however, limited to the use of chemically-engineered miRNA mimics. Very recently we have developed a novel bioengineering technology using a stable non-coding RNA carrier (nCAR) to achieve high-yield production of biocompatible miRNA prodrugs, which is a great addition to current tools for the assessment of RNA therapeutics. Herein, for the first time, we investigated the biochemical pharmacology of bioengineered miR-34a-5p prodrug (nCAR/miR-34a-5p) in the control of ES using human ES cells and xenograft mouse models. The bioengineered nCAR/miR-34a-5p was precisely processed to mature miR-34a-5p in ES cells and subsequently suppressed cell proliferation, attributable to the enhancement of apoptosis and induction of G2 cell cycle arrest through downregulation of SIRT-1, BCL-2 and CDK6 protein levels. Furthermore, systemic administration of nCAR/miR-34a-5p dramatically suppressed the ES xenograft tumor growth in vivo while showing biocompatibility. In addition, the antitumor effect of bioengineered nCAR/miR-34a-5p was associated with a lower degree of tumoral cell proliferation and greater extent of apoptosis. These findings demonstrate the efficacy of bioengineered miR-34a-5p prodrug for the treatment of ES and support the development of miRNA therapeutics using biocompatible bioengineered miRNA prodrugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dai-Feng Li
- Department of Orthopedics Trauma and Microsurgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS), Bio-X Program, Department of Radiology, Canary Center at Stanford for Cancer Early Detection, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Ying Yuan
- Department of Orthopedics Trauma and Microsurgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Mei-Juan Tu
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - Xiang Hu
- Department of Orthopedics Trauma and Microsurgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yi-Zhou Li
- Department of Orthopedics Trauma and Microsurgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Wan-Rong Yi
- Department of Orthopedics Trauma and Microsurgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Peng-Cheng Li
- Department of Orthopedics Trauma and Microsurgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yong Zhao
- Department of Orthopedics Trauma and Microsurgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhen Cheng
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS), Bio-X Program, Department of Radiology, Canary Center at Stanford for Cancer Early Detection, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Ai-Ming Yu
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - Chao Jian
- Department of Orthopedics Trauma and Microsurgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ai-Xi Yu
- Department of Orthopedics Trauma and Microsurgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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Yi W, Tu MJ, Liu Z, Zhang C, Batra N, Yu AX, Yu AM. Bioengineered miR-328-3p modulates GLUT1-mediated glucose uptake and metabolism to exert synergistic antiproliferative effects with chemotherapeutics. Acta Pharm Sin B 2020; 10:159-170. [PMID: 31993313 PMCID: PMC6976971 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2019.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Revised: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) are small noncoding RNAs derived from genome to control target gene expression. Recently we have developed a novel platform permitting high-yield production of bioengineered miRNA agents (BERA). This study is to produce and utilize novel fully-humanized BERA/miR-328-3p molecule (hBERA/miR-328) to delineate the role of miR-328-3p in controlling nutrient uptake essential for cell metabolism. We first demonstrated successful high-level expression of hBERA/miR-328 in bacteria and purification to high degree of homogeneity (>98%). Biologic miR-328-3p prodrug was selectively processed to miR-328-3p to suppress the growth of highly-proliferative human osteosarcoma (OS) cells. Besides glucose transporter protein type 1, gene symbol solute carrier family 2 member 1 (GLUT1/SLC2A1), we identified and verified large neutral amino acid transporter 1, gene symbol solute carrier family 7 member 5 (LAT1/SLC7A5) as a direct target for miR-328-3p. While reduction of LAT1 protein levels by miR-328-3p did not alter homeostasis of amino acids within OS cells, suppression of GLUT1 led to a significantly lower glucose uptake and decline in intracellular levels of glucose and glycolytic metabolite lactate. Moreover, combination treatment with hBERA/miR-328 and cisplatin or doxorubicin exerted a strong synergism in the inhibition of OS cell proliferation. These findings support the utility of novel bioengineered RNA molecules and establish an important role of miR-328-3p in the control of nutrient transport and homeostasis behind cancer metabolism.
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Key Words
- 2-NBDG, 2-[N-(7-nitrobenz-2-oxa-1,3-diazol-4-yl) amino]-2-deoxyglucose
- ABCG2, ATP-binding cassette subfamily G member 2
- ACN, acetonitrile
- Au/Uv, absorbance unit of ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy
- BCRP, breast cancer resistant protein
- BERA, bioengineered miRNA agent
- Bioengineered RNA
- CI, combination index
- CPT, cisplatin
- Cancer
- Chemosensitivity
- DOX, doxorubicin
- E. coli, Escherichia coli
- ESI, electrospray ionization
- FPLC, fast protein liquid chromatography
- Fa, fraction affected
- GLUT1
- GLUT1, glucose transporter protein type 1
- HCC, hepatocellular carcinoma
- HPLC, high-performance liquid chromatography
- IS, internal standard
- KRB, Krebs–Ringer bicarbonate
- LAT1
- LAT1, large neutral amino acid transporter 1
- LC–MS/MS, liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectroscopy
- MCT4, monocarboxylate transporter 4
- MRE, miRNA response elements
- MRM, multiple reaction monitoring
- MiR-328
- OS, osteosarcoma
- PAGE, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis
- PTEN, phosphatase and tensin homolog
- PVDF, Polyvinylidene fluoride
- RAGE, receptor for advanced glycosylation end products
- RT-qPCR, reverse transcription quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction
- SLC2A1, 7A5, 16A3, solute carrier family 2 member 1, family 7 member 5, family 16 member 3
- WT, wild type
- hBERA, humanized bioengineered miRNA agent
- hsa, Homo sapiens
- htRNASer, human seryl-tRNA
- mTOR, mammalian target of rapamycin
- miR or miRNA, microRNA
- ncRNA, noncoding RNAs
- nt, nucleotide
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanrong Yi
- Department of Orthopaedic Trauma and Microsurgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento 95817, CA, USA
| | - Mei-Juan Tu
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento 95817, CA, USA
| | - Zhenzhen Liu
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento 95817, CA, USA
| | - Chao Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento 95817, CA, USA
| | - Neelu Batra
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento 95817, CA, USA
| | - Ai-Xi Yu
- Department of Orthopaedic Trauma and Microsurgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Ai-Ming Yu
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento 95817, CA, USA
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To KKW, Fong W, Tong CWS, Wu M, Yan W, Cho WCS. Advances in the discovery of microRNA-based anticancer therapeutics: latest tools and developments. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2019; 15:63-83. [PMID: 31739699 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2020.1690449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small endogenous non-coding RNAs that repress the expression of their target genes by reducing mRNA stability and/or inhibiting translation. miRNAs are known to be aberrantly regulated in cancers. Modulators of miRNA (mimics and antagonists) have emerged as novel therapeutic tools for cancer treatment.Areas covered: This review summarizes the various strategies that have been applied to correct the dysregulated miRNA in cancer cells. The authors also discuss the recent advances in the technical development and preclinical/clinical evaluation of miRNA-based therapeutic agents.Expert opinion: Application of miRNA-based therapeutics for cancer treatment is appealing because they are able to modulate multiple dysregulated genes and/or signaling pathways in cancer cells. Major obstacles hindering their clinical development include drug delivery, off-target effects, efficacious dose determination, and safety. Tumor site-specific delivery of novel miRNA therapeutics may help to minimize off-target effects and toxicity. Combination of miRNA therapeutics with other anticancer treatment modalities could provide a synergistic effect, thus allowing the use of lower dose, minimizing off-target effects, and improving the overall safety profile in cancer patients. It is critical to identify individual miRNAs with cancer type-specific and context-specific regulation of oncogenes and tumor-suppressor genes in order to facilitate the precise use of miRNA anticancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth K W To
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Winnie Fong
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Christy W S Tong
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Mingxia Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wei Yan
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - William C S Cho
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Li Y, Meng Q, Yang M, Liu D, Hou X, Tang L, Wang X, Lyu Y, Chen X, Liu K, Yu AM, Zuo Z, Bi H. Current trends in drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics. Acta Pharm Sin B 2019; 9:1113-1144. [PMID: 31867160 PMCID: PMC6900561 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2019.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2019] [Revised: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Pharmacokinetics (PK) is the study of the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) processes of a drug. Understanding PK properties is essential for drug development and precision medication. In this review we provided an overview of recent research on PK with focus on the following aspects: (1) an update on drug-metabolizing enzymes and transporters in the determination of PK, as well as advances in xenobiotic receptors and noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) in the modulation of PK, providing new understanding of the transcriptional and posttranscriptional regulatory mechanisms that result in inter-individual variations in pharmacotherapy; (2) current status and trends in assessing drug-drug interactions, especially interactions between drugs and herbs, between drugs and therapeutic biologics, and microbiota-mediated interactions; (3) advances in understanding the effects of diseases on PK, particularly changes in metabolizing enzymes and transporters with disease progression; (4) trends in mathematical modeling including physiologically-based PK modeling and novel animal models such as CRISPR/Cas9-based animal models for DMPK studies; (5) emerging non-classical xenobiotic metabolic pathways and the involvement of novel metabolic enzymes, especially non-P450s. Existing challenges and perspectives on future directions are discussed, and may stimulate the development of new research models, technologies, and strategies towards the development of better drugs and improved clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhua Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Qiang Meng
- College of Pharmacy, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Mengbi Yang
- School of Pharmacy, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Dongyang Liu
- Drug Clinical Trial Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xiangyu Hou
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Lan Tang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Xin Wang
- School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Yuanfeng Lyu
- School of Pharmacy, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiaoyan Chen
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Kexin Liu
- College of Pharmacy, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Ai-Ming Yu
- UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Zhong Zuo
- School of Pharmacy, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Huichang Bi
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
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Ning B, Yu D, Yu AM. Advances and challenges in studying noncoding RNA regulation of drug metabolism and development of RNA therapeutics. Biochem Pharmacol 2019; 169:113638. [PMID: 31518552 PMCID: PMC6802278 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2019.113638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that genome-derived noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) play important roles in modulating inter-individual variations observed in drug metabolism and disposition by controlling the expression of genes coding drug metabolizing enzymes and transporters (DMETs) and relevant nuclear receptors (NRs). With the understanding of novel ncRNA regulatory mechanisms and significance in the control of disease initiation and progression, RNA-based therapies are under active investigation that may expand the druggable targets from conventional proteins to RNAs and the genome for the treatment of human diseases. Herein we provide an overview of research strategies, approaches and their limitations in biochemical and pharmacological studies pertaining to ncRNA functions in the regulation of drug and nutrient metabolism and disposition, and discussion on the promise and challenges in developing RNA therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baitang Ning
- National Center for Toxicological Research (NCTR), US Food and Drug Administration, Jefferson, AR 72079, USA.
| | - Dianke Yu
- School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Ai-Ming Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA.
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Wang Y, Cao J, Liu W, Zhang J, Wang Z, Zhang Y, Hou L, Chen S, Hao P, Zhang L, Zhuang M, Yu Y, Li D, Fan G. Protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type R (PTPRR) antagonizes the Wnt signaling pathway in ovarian cancer by dephosphorylating and inactivating β-catenin. J Biol Chem 2019; 294:18306-18323. [PMID: 31653698 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.010348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Revised: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite a lack of mutations, accumulating evidence supports an important role for the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in ovarian tumorigenesis. However, the molecular mechanism that contributes to the aberrant activation of the Wnt signaling cascade in ovarian cancer has not been fully elucidated. Here, we found that protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type R (PTPRR) suppressed the activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in ovarian cancer. We performed an shRNA-based biochemical screen, which identified PTPRR as being responsible for tyrosine dephosphorylation of β-catenin on Tyr-142, a key site controlling the transcriptional activity of β-catenin. Of note, PTPRR was down-regulated in ovarian cancers, and ectopic PTPRR re-expression delayed ovarian cancer cell growth both in vitro and in vivo Using a proximity-based tagging system and RNA-Seq analysis, we identified a signaling nexus that includes PTPRR, α-catenin, β-catenin, E-cadherin, and AT-rich interaction domain 3C (ARID3C) in ovarian cancer. Immunohistochemistry staining of human samples further suggested that PTPRR expression is inversely correlated with disease prognosis. Collectively, our findings indicate that PTPRR functions as a tumor suppressor in ovarian cancer by dephosphorylating and inactivating β-catenin. These results suggest that PTPRR expression might have utility as a prognostic marker for predicting overall survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuetong Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Jian Cao
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing 210004, China
| | - Weiwei Liu
- Institute of Biophysics, Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Jiali Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Zuo Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Yiqun Zhang
- Institute of Biophysics, Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Linjun Hou
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Shengmiao Chen
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Piliang Hao
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Liye Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Min Zhuang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Yang Yu
- Institute of Biophysics, Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Dake Li
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing 210004, China.
| | - Gaofeng Fan
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.
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Bioengineering of a single long noncoding RNA molecule that carries multiple small RNAs. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2019; 103:6107-6117. [PMID: 31187211 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-019-09934-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Revised: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs), small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), regulate target gene expression and can be used as tools for understanding biological processes and identifying new therapeutic targets. Currently, ncRNA molecules for research and therapeutic use are limited to ncRNA mimics made by chemical synthesis. We have recently established a high-yield and cost-effective method of producing bioengineered or biologic ncRNA agents (BERAs) through bacterial fermentation, which is based on a stable tRNA/pre-miR-34a carrier (~ 180 nt) that accommodates target small RNAs. Nevertheless, it remains a challenge to heterogeneously express longer ncRNAs (e.g., > 260 nt), and it is unknown if single BERA may carry multiple small RNAs. To address this issue, we hypothesized that an additional human pre-miR-34a could be attached to the tRNA/pre-miR-34a scaffold to offer a new tRNA/pre-miR-34a/pre-miR-34a carrier (~ 296 nt) for the accommodation of multiple small RNAs. We thus designed ten different combinatorial BERAs (CO-BERAs) that include different combinations of miRNAs, siRNAs, and antagomirs. Our data showed that all target CO-BERAs were successfully expressed in Escherichia coli at high levels, greater than 40% in total bacterial RNAs. Furthermore, recombinant CO-BERAs were purified to a high degree of homogeneity by fast protein liquid chromatography methods. In addition, CO-BERAs exhibited strong anti-proliferative activities against a variety of human non-small cell lung cancer cell lines. These results support the production of long ncRNA molecules carrying different warhead small RNAs for multi-targeting which may open avenues for developing new biologic RNAs as experimental, diagnostic, and therapeutic tools.
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Miroshnichenko S, Patutina O. Enhanced Inhibition of Tumorigenesis Using Combinations of miRNA-Targeted Therapeutics. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:488. [PMID: 31156429 PMCID: PMC6531850 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The search for effective strategies to inhibit tumorigenesis remains one of the most relevant scientific challenges. Among the most promising approaches is the direct modulation of the function of short non-coding RNAs, particularly miRNAs. These molecules are propitious targets for anticancer therapy, since they perform key regulatory roles in a variety of signaling cascades related to cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion. The development of pathological states is often associated with deregulation of miRNA expression. The present review describes in detail the strategies aimed at modulating miRNA activity that invoke antisense oligonucleotide construction, such as small RNA zippers, miRNases (miRNA-targeted artificial ribonucleases), miRNA sponges, miRNA masks, anti-miRNA oligonucleotides, and synthetic miRNA mimics. The broad impact of developed miRNA-based therapeutics on the various events of tumorigenesis is also discussed. Above all, the focus of this review is to evaluate the results of the combined application of different miRNA-based agents and chemotherapeutic drugs for the inhibition of tumor development. Many studies indicate a considerable increase in the efficacy of anticancer therapy as a result of additive or synergistic effects of simultaneously applied therapies. Different drug combinations, such as a cocktail of antisense oligonucleotides or multipotent miRNA sponges directed at several oncogenic microRNAs belonging to the same/different miRNA families, a mixture of anti-miRNA oligonucleotides and cytostatic drugs, and a combination of synthetic miRNA mimics, have a more complex and profound effect on the various events of tumorigenesis as compared with treatment with a single miRNA-based agent or chemotherapeutic drug. These data provide strong evidence that the simultaneous application of several distinct strategies aimed at suppressing different cellular processes linked to tumorigenesis is a promising approach for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svetlana Miroshnichenko
- Laboratory of Nucleic Acids Biochemistry, Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine SB RAS, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Olga Patutina
- Laboratory of Nucleic Acids Biochemistry, Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine SB RAS, Novosibirsk, Russia
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Abstract
Small-molecule and protein/antibody drugs mainly act on genome-derived proteins to exert pharmacological effects. RNA based therapies hold the promise to expand the range of druggable targets from proteins to RNAs and the genome, as evidenced by several RNA drugs approved for clinical practice and many others under active trials. While chemo-engineered RNA mimics have found their success in marketed drugs and continue dominating basic research and drug development, these molecules are usually conjugated with extensive and various modifications. This makes them completely different from cellular RNAs transcribed from the genome that usually consist of unmodified ribonucleotides or just contain a few posttranscriptional modifications. The use of synthetic RNA mimics for RNA research and drug development is also in contrast with the ultimate success of protein research and therapy utilizing biologic or recombinant proteins produced and folded in living cells instead of polypeptides or proteins synthesized in vitro. Indeed, efforts have been made recently to develop RNA bioengineering technologies for cost-effective and large-scale production of biologic RNA molecules that may better capture the structures, functions, and safety profiles of natural RNAs. In this article, we provide an overview on RNA therapeutics for the treatment of human diseases via RNA interference mechanisms. By illustrating the structural differences between natural RNAs and chemo-engineered RNA mimics, we focus on discussion of a novel class of bioengineered/biologic RNA agents produced through fermentation and their potential applications to RNA research and drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ai-Ming Yu
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA.
| | - Chao Jian
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Allan H Yu
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Mei-Juan Tu
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
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Jilek JL, Zhang QY, Tu MJ, Ho PY, Duan Z, Qiu JX, Yu AM. Bioengineered Let-7c Inhibits Orthotopic Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Improves Overall Survival with Minimal Immunogenicity. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2019; 14:498-508. [PMID: 30753993 PMCID: PMC6370598 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2019.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2018] [Revised: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths, warranting better therapies. Restoration of tumor-suppressive microRNAs depleted in hepatocellular carcinoma represents a new therapeutic strategy. Herein, we sought to identify a potent microRNA (miRNA) agent that could alleviate HCC tumor burden and improve survival. Among a collection of bioengineered noncoding RNA molecules produced through bacterial fermentation, we identified let-7c agent as the most potent inhibitor of HCC cell viability. Bioengineered let-7c selectively modulated target gene expression (Lin-28 homolog B [LIN28B], AT-rich interactive domain-containing protein 3B [ARID3B], B cell lymphoma-extra large [Bcl-xl], and c-Myc) in HCC cells, and consequently induced apoptosis and inhibited tumorsphere growth. When formulated with liposomal-branched polyethylenimine polyplex, bioengineered let-7c exhibited serum stability up to 24 h. Furthermore, liposomal polyplex-formulated let-7c could effectively reduce tumor burden and progression in orthotopic HCC mouse models, while linear polyethyleneimine-formulated let-7c to a lower degree, as revealed by live animal and ex vivo tissue imaging studies. This was also supported by reduced serum α-fetoprotein and bilirubin levels in let-7c-treated mice. In addition, lipopolyplex-formulated let-7c extended overall survival of HCC tumor-bearing mice and elicited no or minimal immune responses in healthy immunocompetent mice and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. These results demonstrate that bioengineered let-7c is a promising molecule for advanced HCC therapy, and liposomal polyplex is a superior modality for in vivo RNA delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph L Jilek
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Qian-Yu Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Mei-Juan Tu
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Pui Yan Ho
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Zhijian Duan
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Jing-Xin Qiu
- Department of Pathology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA
| | - Ai-Ming Yu
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA.
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