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Murshed A, Alnoud MAH, Ahmad S, Khan SU, Alissa M, Alsuwat MA, Ahmed AE, Khan MU. Genetic Alchemy unveiled: MicroRNA-mediated gene therapy as the Artisan craft in the battlefront against hepatocellular carcinoma-a comprehensive chronicle of strategies and innovations. Front Genet 2024; 15:1356972. [PMID: 38915826 PMCID: PMC11194743 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2024.1356972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Investigating therapeutic miRNAs is a rewarding endeavour for pharmaceutical companies. Since its discovery in 1993, our understanding of miRNA biology has advanced significantly. Numerous studies have emphasised the disruption of miRNA expression in various diseases, making them appealing candidates for innovative therapeutic approaches. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a significant malignancy that poses a severe threat to human health, accounting for approximately 70%-85% of all malignant tumours. Currently, the efficacy of several HCC therapies is limited. Alterations in various biomacromolecules during HCC progression and their underlying mechanisms provide a basis for the investigation of novel and effective therapeutic approaches. MicroRNAs, also known as miRNAs, have been identified in the last 20 years and significantly impact gene expression and protein translation. This atypical expression pattern is strongly associated with the onset and progression of various malignancies. Gene therapy, a novel form of biological therapy, is a prominent research area. Therefore, miRNAs have been used in the investigation of tumour gene therapy. This review examines the mechanisms of action of miRNAs, explores the correlation between miRNAs and HCC, and investigates the use of miRNAs in HCC gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abduh Murshed
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Mohammed A. H. Alnoud
- Cardiovascular Center of Excellence, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Saleem Ahmad
- Cardiovascular Center of Excellence, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Safir Ullah Khan
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Mohammed Alissa
- Department of Medical Laboratory, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
| | - Meshari A. Alsuwat
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Ezzat Ahmed
- Department of Biology, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
- Prince Sultan Bin Abdelaziz for Environmental Research and Natural Resources Sustainability Center, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Munir Ullah Khan
- MOE Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, International Research Center for XPolymers, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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Zhang HY, Zhu JJ, Liu ZM, Zhang YX, Chen JJ, Chen KD. A prognostic four-gene signature and a therapeutic strategy for hepatocellular carcinoma: Construction and analysis of a circRNA-mediated competing endogenous RNA network. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2024; 23:272-287. [PMID: 37407412 DOI: 10.1016/j.hbpd.2023.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has a poor long-term prognosis. The competition of circular RNAs (circRNAs) with endogenous RNA is a novel tool for predicting HCC prognosis. Based on the alterations of circRNA regulatory networks, the analysis of gene modules related to HCC is feasible. METHODS Multiple expression datasets and RNA element targeting prediction tools were used to construct a circRNA-microRNA-mRNA network in HCC. Gene function, pathway, and protein interaction analyses were performed for the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in this regulatory network. In the protein-protein interaction network, hub genes were identified and subjected to regression analysis, producing an optimized four-gene signature for prognostic risk stratification in HCC patients. Anti-HCC drugs were excavated by assessing the DEGs between the low- and high-risk groups. A circRNA-microRNA-hub gene subnetwork was constructed, in which three hallmark genes, KIF4A, CCNA2, and PBK, were subjected to functional enrichment analysis. RESULTS A four-gene signature (KIF4A, CCNA2, PBK, and ZWINT) that effectively estimated the overall survival and aided in prognostic risk assessment in the The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) cohort and International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) cohort was developed. CDK inhibitors, PI3K inhibitors, HDAC inhibitors, and EGFR inhibitors were predicted as four potential mechanisms of drug action (MOA) in high-risk HCC patients. Subsequent analysis has revealed that PBK, CCNA2, and KIF4A play a crucial role in regulating the tumor microenvironment by promoting immune cell invasion, regulating microsatellite instability (MSI), and exerting an impact on HCC progression. CONCLUSIONS The present study highlights the role of the circRNA-related regulatory network, identifies a four-gene prognostic signature and biomarkers, and further identifies novel therapy for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Yan Zhang
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Jia-Jie Zhu
- Shulan International Medical College, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou 310015, China
| | - Zong-Ming Liu
- Shulan International Medical College, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou 310015, China
| | - Yu-Xuan Zhang
- Shulan International Medical College, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou 310015, China
| | - Jia-Jia Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310009, China
| | - Ke-Da Chen
- Shulan International Medical College, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou 310015, China.
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Aalami AH, Shahriari A, Mazaheri M, Aalami F, Sahebkar A. Advancing gastrointestinal cancer diagnostics: a systematic review and meta-analysis of circulating microRNA-1246 as a non-invasive biomarker. Biomarkers 2024:1-11. [PMID: 38696280 DOI: 10.1080/1354750x.2024.2350714] [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: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite numerous reports on the alterations of microRNA-1246 (miR-1246) expression level in digestive system cancers, its role in gastrointestinal cancers (GICs) remains unclear. This meta-analysis aimed to assess the diagnostic potential of circulating miR-1246 in GICs. METHODS Meta-disc version 1.4 and Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) version 3.7 software were used to calculate pooled sensitivity, specificity, likelihood ratios, diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), area under the curve (AUC), Q*index and summary receiver-operating characteristic (SROC). Subgroup analyses were conducted for cancer type, sample type and geographical region. Publication bias was assessed using Begg's and Egger's tests. RESULTS A total of 14 articles involving 18 studies and 1526 participants (972 cases and 554 controls) were included. The diagnostic accuracy of miRNA-1246 in GICs was as follows: pooled sensitivity: 0.81 (95% CI: 0.79 - 0.83), specificity: 0.74 (95% CI: 0.71 - 0.77), PLR: 3.315 (95% CI: 2.33 - 4.72), NLR: 0.221 (95% CI: 0.153 - 0.319), DOR: 16.87 (95% CI: 9.45 - 30.09), AUC: 0.891, and Q*-index: 0.807. No publication bias was found based on Begg's (p = 0.172) and Egger's (p = 0.113) tests. CONCLUSION Circulating miR-1246 shows promise as a non-invasive biomarker for early detection of GICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Hossein Aalami
- Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, College of Health, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Ali Shahriari
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mashhad Medical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Mazaheri
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, College of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Farnoosh Aalami
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Center for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, India
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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4
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Morkunas E, Vaitkeviciute E, Inciuraite R, Kupcinskas J, Link A, Skieceviciene J, Alunni-Fabbroni M, Schütte K, Malfertheiner P, Varkalaite G, Ricke J. miRNome Profiling Analysis Reveals Novel Hepatocellular Carcinoma Diagnostic, Prognostic and Treatment-Related Candidate Biomarkers: Post hoc Analysis of SORAMIC Trial. Dig Dis 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38657585 DOI: 10.1159/000538757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Early diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) as well as evaluation of prognosis and prediction of treatment efficacy remains challenging due to the missing specific non-invasive biomarkers. The aim of this study was to identify disease-specific microRNA (miRNA) patterns for diagnosis, prediction of prognosis, and treatment response in patients with HCC. METHODS The study population included 42 HCC patients from SORAMIC clinical trial: 22 patients received sorafenib monotherapy, 20 patients underwent 90Y radioembolization in combination with sorafenib. 20 individuals were included in the control group. HCC patients underwent collection of plasma samples before and 7-9 weeks after the beginning of the treatment. Isolation of circulating miRNAs, preparation of small RNA sequencing libraries and next-generation sequencing were performed. Association analysis for novel diagnostic, prognostic, and treatment-related candidate biomarkers was performed. RESULTS A total of 42 differentially expressed (16 up-regulated and 26 down-regulated) miRNAs were identified comparing baseline and control group plasma samples. hsa-miR-215-5p and hsa-miR-192-5p were down-regulated, while hsa-miR-483-5p and hsa-miR-23b-3p were up-regulated comparing baseline and 7-9 weeks post-sorafenib monotherapy samples. hsa-miR-215-5p was the sole down-regulated miRNA in the same combination therapy comparison. hsa-miR-183-5p, hsa-miR-28-3p, and hsa-miR-1246 were found to be significantly up-regulated comparing non-responders versus responders to sorafenib. High hsa-miR-215-5p expression was significantly associated with worse HCC patients' prognosis. CONCLUSIONS Systematic miRNA profiling of highly characterized samples from SORAMIC study revealed a subset of potential miRNA biomarkers for HCC diagnosis and prognosis of sorafenib-treated patients' survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Egidijus Morkunas
- Institute for Digestive Research and Department of Gastroenterology, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Evelina Vaitkeviciute
- Institute for Digestive Research, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Ruta Inciuraite
- Institute for Digestive Research, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Juozas Kupcinskas
- Institute for Digestive Research and Department of Gastroenterology, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Alexander Link
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Otto-von-Guericke University Hospital, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Jurgita Skieceviciene
- Institute for Digestive Research, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | | | - Kerstin Schütte
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Niels-Stensen-Kliniken Marienhospital, Osnabrück, Germany
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Peter Malfertheiner
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Greta Varkalaite
- Institute for Digestive Research, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Jens Ricke
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
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Zhao Z, Cui T, Wei F, Zhou Z, Sun Y, Gao C, Xu X, Zhang H. Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma: pathogenic role and therapeutic target. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1367364. [PMID: 38634048 PMCID: PMC11022604 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1367364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary malignant liver tumor and one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway is a highly conserved pathway involved in several biological processes, including the improper regulation that leads to the tumorigenesis and progression of cancer. New studies have found that abnormal activation of the Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway is a major cause of HCC tumorigenesis, progression, and resistance to therapy. New perspectives and approaches to treating HCC will arise from understanding this pathway. This article offers a thorough analysis of the Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway's function and its therapeutic implications in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zekun Zhao
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- The Second General Surgery Department, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Tenglu Cui
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- The Radiotherapy Department, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Fengxian Wei
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- The Second General Surgery Department, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Zhiming Zhou
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- The Second General Surgery Department, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yuan Sun
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- The Second General Surgery Department, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Chaofeng Gao
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- The Second General Surgery Department, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiaodong Xu
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- The Second General Surgery Department, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Huihan Zhang
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- The Second General Surgery Department, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
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Chen J, He F, Peng H, Guo J. The underlying mechanism and targeted therapy strategy of miRNAs cross-regulating EMT process through multiple signaling pathways in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 11:1378386. [PMID: 38584703 PMCID: PMC10995332 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2024.1378386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The consistent notion holds that hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) initiation, progression, and clinical treatment failure treatment failure are affected by the accumulation of various genetic and epigenetic alterations. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play an irreplaceable role in a variety of physiological and pathological states. meanwhile, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a crucial biological process that controls the development of HCC. miRNAs regulate the intermediation state of EMTor mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MTE)thereby regulating HCC progression. Notably, miRNAs regulate key HCC-related molecular pathways, including the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathway, TGF-β pathway, and RAS/MAPK pathway. Therefore, we comprehensively reviewed how miRNAs produce EMT effects by multiple signaling pathways and their potential significance in the pathogenesis and treatment response of HCC. emphasizing their molecular pathways and progression in HCC initiation. Additionally, we also pay attention to regulatory mechanisms that are partially independent of signaling pathways. Finally, we summarize and propose miRNA-targeted therapy and diagnosis and defense strategies forHCC. The identification of the mechanism leading to the activation of EMT programs during HCC disease processes also provides a new protocol for the plasticity of distinct cellular phenotypes and possible therapeutic interventions. Consequently, we summarize the latest progress in this direction, with a promising path for further insight into this fast-moving field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Chen
- Department of Pathology, Bishan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Fuguo He
- Department of Pathology, Bishan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hong Peng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Bishan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jinjun Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Bishan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Sartorius K, Sartorius B, Winkler C, Chuturgoon A, Shen TW, Zhao Y, An P. Serum microRNA Profiles and Pathways in Hepatitis B-Associated Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A South African Study. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:975. [PMID: 38256049 PMCID: PMC10815595 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020975] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The incidence and mortality of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Sub-Saharan Africa is projected to increase sharply by 2040 against a backdrop of limited diagnostic and therapeutic options. Two large South African-based case control studies have developed a serum-based miRNome for Hepatitis B-associated hepatocellular carcinoma (HBV-HCC), as well as identifying their gene targets and pathways. Using a combination of RNA sequencing, differential analysis and filters including a unique molecular index count (UMI) ≥ 10 and log fold change (LFC) range > 2: <-0.5 (p < 0.05), 91 dysregulated miRNAs were characterized including 30 that were upregulated and 61 were downregulated. KEGG analysis, a literature review and other bioinformatic tools identified the targeted genes and HBV-HCC pathways of the top 10 most dysregulated miRNAs. The results, which are based on differentiating miRNA expression of cases versus controls, also develop a serum-based miRNA diagnostic panel that indicates 95.9% sensitivity, 91.0% specificity and a Youden Index of 0.869. In conclusion, the results develop a comprehensive African HBV-HCC miRNome that potentially can contribute to RNA-based diagnostic and therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurt Sartorius
- Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2001, South Africa
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Molecular Sciences, University of Kwazulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa;
- Africa Hepatopancreatobiliary Cancer Consortium (AHPBCC), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | - Benn Sartorius
- School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Cheryl Winkler
- Centre for Cancer Research, Basic Research Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick Natifol Laboratory for Cancer Research, National Institute of Health, Frederick, MD 21701, USA
| | - Anil Chuturgoon
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Molecular Sciences, University of Kwazulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa;
| | - Tsai-Wei Shen
- CCR-SF Bioinformatics Group, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21701, USA
| | - Yongmei Zhao
- CCR-SF Bioinformatics Group, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21701, USA
| | - Ping An
- Centre for Cancer Research, Basic Research Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick Natifol Laboratory for Cancer Research, National Institute of Health, Frederick, MD 21701, USA
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Li Z, Guo J, Ge R, Liu C. Rehabilitation effect of core muscle training combined with functional electrical stimulation on lower limb motor and balance functions in stroke patients. J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil 2024; 37:347-354. [PMID: 37781791 DOI: 10.3233/bmr-230074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies have shown that core muscle training can accelerate the recovery of motor function in stroke patients. However, there are no relevant reports to show the effect of core muscle training combined with functional electrical stimulation (FES) on the rehabilitation of stroke patients. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to observe the efficacy of core muscle training combined with FES on motor and balance functions of lower limbs in stroke patients. METHODS This study selected and divided 120 stroke patients with hemiplegia admitted to our hospital into the control and observation groups. Patients in the control group just received core muscle training; while patients in the observation group were treated by core muscle training combined with FES. Both groups were treated for 8 weeks. Subsequently, the clinical data and information of all patients were collected and counted. Muscle strength changes were observed by detecting paralytic dorsiflexor (pDF), plantar flexor (pPF), knee extensor (pKE), and knee flexor (pKF) before and after treatment. Motor and balance abilities of both groups were scored through the 10-meter walking test (10 MWT), Berg balance scale (BBS), functional ambulation category (FAC) scale, timed up and go (TUG) test, and lower extremity motricity index (MI-Lower). RESULTS No significant difference was found in clinical data between the two groups. The intensity of pDF, pPF, pKE, and pKF significantly increased in both groups after treatment, and the intensity of these parameters was higher in the observation group relative to the control group. Additionally, 10 MWT and TUG test scores of patients in the observation group were notably decreased while the BBS and MI-Lower scores were significantly increased after treatment compared with those in the control group. CONCLUSION Core muscle training combined with FES can significantly improve the rehabilitation effect of lower limb motor and balance functions in stroke patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo Li
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Rehabilitation, Beijing Health Vocational College, Beijing, China
| | - Jingwei Guo
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ruidong Ge
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chang Liu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
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Tavakoli Pirzaman A, Alishah A, Babajani B, Ebrahimi P, Sheikhi SA, Moosaei F, Salarfar A, Doostmohamadian S, Kazemi S. The Role of microRNAs in Hepatocellular Cancer: A Narrative Review Focused on Tumor Microenvironment and Drug Resistance. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2024; 23:15330338241239188. [PMID: 38634139 PMCID: PMC11025440 DOI: 10.1177/15330338241239188] [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: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Globally, hepatic cancer ranks fourth in terms of cancer-related mortality and is the sixth most frequent kind of cancer. Around 80% of liver cancers are hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC), which are the leading cause of cancer death. It is well known that HCC may develop resistance to the available chemotherapy treatments very fast. One of the biggest obstacles in providing cancer patients with appropriate care is drug resistance. According to reports, more than 90% of cancer-specific fatalities are caused by treatment resistance. By binding to the 3'-untranslated region of target messenger RNAs (mRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), a group of noncoding RNAs which are around 17 to 25 nucleotides long, regulate target gene expression. Moreover, they play role in the control of signaling pathways, cell proliferation, and cell death. As a result, miRNAs play an important role in the microenvironment of HCC by changing immune phenotypes, hypoxic conditions, and acidification, as well as angiogenesis and extracellular matrix components. Moreover, changes in miRNA levels in HCC can effectively resist cancer cells to chemotherapy by affecting various cellular processes such as autophagy, apoptosis, and membrane transporter activity. In the current work, we narratively reviewed the role of miRNAs in HCC, with a special focus on tumor microenvironment and drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ali Alishah
- Student Research Committee, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Bahareh Babajani
- Student Research Committee, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Pouyan Ebrahimi
- Student Research Committee, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Seyyed Ali Sheikhi
- Student Research Committee, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Farhad Moosaei
- Student Research Committee, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | | | | | - Sohrab Kazemi
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Health Research Center, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
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Hajizadeh M, Hajizadeh F, Ghaffarei S, Amin Doustvandi M, Hajizadeh K, Yaghoubi SM, Mohammadnejad F, Khiabani NA, Mousavi P, Baradaran B. MicroRNAs and their vital role in apoptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma: miRNA-based diagnostic and treatment methods. Gene 2023; 888:147803. [PMID: 37716587 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most prevalent malignancies with high invasive and metastatic capability. Although significant advances have been made in the treatment of HCC, the overall survival rate of patients is still low. It is essential to explore accurate biomarkers for early diagnosis and prognosis along with therapeutic procedures to increase the survival rate of these patients. Anticancer therapies can contribute to induce apoptosis for the elimination of cancerous cells. However, dysregulated apoptosis and proliferation signaling pathways lead to treatment resistance, a significant challenge in improving efficient therapies. MiRNAs, short non-coding RNAs, play crucial roles in the progression of HCC, which regulate gene expression through post-transcriptional inhibition and targeting mRNA degradation in cancers. Dysregulated expression of multiple miRNAs is associated with numerous biological processes, including cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion and metastasis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), angiogenesis, and drug resistance in HCC. This review summarizes the role and potential efficacy of miRNAs in promoting and inhibiting cell proliferation and apoptosis in HCC, as well as the role of miRNAs in therapy resistance in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoumeh Hajizadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Farnaz Hajizadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sevil Ghaffarei
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Khadijeh Hajizadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Seyyed Mohammad Yaghoubi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | | | - Pegah Mousavi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Behzad Baradaran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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11
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Barrera LN, Ridley PM, Bermejo-Rodriguez C, Costello E, Perez-Mancera PA. The role of microRNAs in the modulation of cancer-associated fibroblasts activity during pancreatic cancer pathogenesis. J Physiol Biochem 2023; 79:193-204. [PMID: 35767180 PMCID: PMC9905185 DOI: 10.1007/s13105-022-00899-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the deadliest of the common cancers. A major hallmark of PDAC is an abundant and dense fibrotic stroma, the result of a disproportionate deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the main mediators of PDAC desmoplasia. CAFs represent a heterogenous group of activated fibroblasts with different origins and activation mechanisms. microRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs with critical activity during tumour development and resistance to chemotherapy. Increasing evidence has revealed that miRNAs play a relevant role in the differentiation of normal fibroblasts into CAFs in PDAC. In this review, we discuss recent findings on the role of miRNAs in the activation of CAFs during the progression of PDAC and its response to therapy, as well as the potential role that PDAC-derived exosomal miRNAs may play in the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and formation of liver metastasis. Since targeting of CAF activation may be a viable strategy for PDAC therapy, and miRNAs have emerged as potential therapeutic targets, understanding the biology underpinning miRNA-mediated tumour cell-CAF interactions is an important component in guiding rational approaches to treating this deadly disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence N Barrera
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, PR1 1JQ, UK
| | - P Matthew Ridley
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Eithne Costello
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.
| | - Pedro A Perez-Mancera
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.
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12
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Ezhilarasan D, Najimi M. Deciphering the possible reciprocal loop between hepatic stellate cells and cancer cells in the tumor microenvironment of the liver. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2023; 182:103902. [PMID: 36621514 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2022.103902] [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: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs)/myofibroblasts are the important sources of cancer-associated fibroblasts in the liver tumor microenvironment (TME). The crosstalk between activated HSCs and tumor cells mediates HCC progression, metastasis, tumor cell survival, angiogenesis and chemoresistance. In TME, HCC cells secrete various soluble factors responsible for the phenotypic activation of quiescent HSCs. Tumor cells use activated HSC-derived extracellular matrix (ECM) for migration and invasion. Further, in liver TME, activated HSCs and sinusoidal endothelial cells engage in a crosstalk that causes the secretion of angiogenesis and metastasis-related growth factors and cytokines. Activated HSCs and immune cells crosstalk to decrease immune surveillance in the liver TME by increasing the population of T regulatory cells and M2 macrophages or myeloid-derived suppressor cells. Thus, HSCs play a vital role in liver TME cell interactions. Therefore, a deep understanding of HSCs activation and their crosstalk with cancer and immune cells in TME may lead to the development of novel therapeutic strategies to target HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devaraj Ezhilarasan
- Department of Pharmacology, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600077, India.
| | - Mustapha Najimi
- Laboratory of Pediatric Hepatology and Cell Therapy, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), UCLouvain, Brussels 1200, Belgium
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13
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Ruiz-Manriquez LM, Carrasco-Morales O, Sanchez Z EA, Osorio-Perez SM, Estrada-Meza C, Pathak S, Banerjee A, Bandyopadhyay A, Duttaroy AK, Paul S. MicroRNA-mediated regulation of key signaling pathways in hepatocellular carcinoma: A mechanistic insight. Front Genet 2022; 13:910733. [PMID: 36118880 PMCID: PMC9478853 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.910733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer. The molecular pathogenesis of HCC varies due to the different etiologies and genotoxic insults. The development of HCC is characterized by complex interactions between several etiological factors that result in genetic and epigenetic changes in proto-onco and/or tumor suppressor genes. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short non-coding RNAs that also can act as oncomiRs or tumor suppressors regulating the expression of cancer-associated genes post-transcriptionally. Studies revealed that several microRNAs are directly or indirectly involved in cellular signaling, and dysregulation of those miRNAs in the body fluids or tissues potentially affects key signaling pathways resulting in carcinogenesis. Therefore, in this mini-review, we discussed recent progress in microRNA-mediated regulation of crucial signaling networks during HCC development, concentrating on the most relevant ones such as PI3K/Akt/mTOR, Hippo-YAP/TAZ, and Wnt/β-catenin, which might open new avenues in HCC management.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - E. Adrian Sanchez Z
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Queretaro, Mexico
| | | | | | - Surajit Pathak
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute (CHRI), Chettinad Academy of Research and Education (CARE), Chennai, India
| | - Antara Banerjee
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute (CHRI), Chettinad Academy of Research and Education (CARE), Chennai, India
| | - Anindya Bandyopadhyay
- International Rice Research Institute, Manila, Philippines
- Reliance Industries Ltd., Navi Mumbai, India
| | - Asim K. Duttaroy
- Department of Nutrition, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- *Correspondence: Asim K. Duttaroy, ; Sujay Paul,
| | - Sujay Paul
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Queretaro, Mexico
- *Correspondence: Asim K. Duttaroy, ; Sujay Paul,
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14
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Guizhen Z, Guanchang J, Liwen L, Huifen W, Zhigang R, Ranran S, Zujiang Y. The tumor microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma and its targeting strategy by CAR-T cell immunotherapy. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:918869. [PMID: 36093115 PMCID: PMC9452721 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.918869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the major subtype of liver cancer, which ranks sixth in cancer incidence and third in mortality. Although great strides have been made in novel therapy for HCC, such as immunotherapy, the prognosis remains less than satisfactory. Increasing evidence demonstrates that the tumor immune microenvironment (TME) exerts a significant role in the evolution of HCC and has a non-negligible impact on the efficacy of HCC treatment. In the past two decades, the success in hematological malignancies made by chimeric antigen receptor-modified T (CAR-T) cell therapy leveraging it holds great promise for cancer treatment. However, in the face of a hostile TME in solid tumors like HCC, the efficacy of CAR-T cells will be greatly compromised. Here, we provide an overview of TME features in HCC, discuss recent advances and challenges of CAR-T immunotherapy in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhang Guizhen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Presion Medicine Cencter Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, China
- Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ji Guanchang
- Department of Urology People’s Hospital of Puyang, Puyang, China
| | - Liu Liwen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Presion Medicine Cencter Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, China
- Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wang Huifen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Presion Medicine Cencter Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, China
- Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ren Zhigang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Sun Ranran
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yu Zujiang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Presion Medicine Cencter Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, China
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15
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Hu H, Zhang T, Wu Y, Deng M, Deng H, Yang X. Cross-regulation between microRNAs and key proteins of signaling pathways in hepatocellular carcinoma. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 16:753-765. [PMID: 35833844 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2022.2101994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a subtype of primary liver cancer and a major cause of death. Although miRNA plays an important role in hepatocellular carcinoma, the specific regulatory network remains unclear. Therefore, this paper comprehensively describes the miRNA-related signaling pathways in HCC and the possible interactions among different signaling pathways. The aim is to lay the foundation for the discovery of new molecular targets and multi-target therapy. AREAS COVERED Based on miRNA, HCC, and signaling pathways, the literature was searched on Web of Science and PubMed. Then, common targets between different signaling pathways were found from KEGG database, and possible cross-regulation mechanisms were further studied. In this review, we elaborated from two aspects, respectively, laying a foundation for studying the regulatory mechanism and potential targets of miRNA in HCC. EXPERT OPINION Non-coding RNAs have become notable molecules in cancer research in recent years, and many types of targeted drugs have emerged. From the outset, molecular targets and signal pathways are interlinked, which suggests that signal pathways and regulatory networks should be concerned in basic research, which also provides a strong direction for future mechanism research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haihong Hu
- School of Pharmacy, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Taolan Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China.,The First Affiliated Hospital, Pharmacy Department, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Yiwen Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Meina Deng
- School of Pharmacy, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Huiling Deng
- School of Pharmacy, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Xiaoyan Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China.,The Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
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16
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Dios-Barbeito S, González R, Cadenas M, García LF, Victor VM, Padillo FJ, Muntané J. Impact of nitric oxide in liver cancer microenvironment. Nitric Oxide 2022; 128:1-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.niox.2022.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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17
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Che P, Jiang S, Zhang W, Zhu H, Hu D, Wang D. A novel prognostic model based on three clinic-related miRNAs for prostate cancer. Front Surg 2022; 9:872953. [PMID: 35959113 PMCID: PMC9357906 DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2022.872953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most common malignant tumor in men worldwide. MiRNAs have been reported to play significant roles in prognosis prediction for patients with malignant tumors. Methods The survival-related miRNAs (sDMIRs) were identified by Cox regression analysis. A risk score model (RSM) was established based on three sDMIRs. The expression levels of sDMIRs in cell lines and clinical samples were detected via quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The correlations between sDMIRs and clinicopathological characteristics of PCa patients were evaluated using the chi-square test and Fisher's exact probability method. Results Four sDMIRs were remarkably related to the prognosis of PCa patients based on univariate Cox analysis, of which miR-10a-5p, miR-20a-5p, and miR-508-3p were used to establish the RSM. The OS in the low-risk group was better than that in the high-risk group. In the verification of various prostate cell lines and clinical samples from 162 PCa patients, the prominently higher expression of miR-10a-5p and miR-20a-5p and lower expression of miR-508-3p were detected in PCa cell lines and tumor tissues, especially the more advanced T-stage. Besides, the higher expression of miR-20a-5p and miR-10a-5p was significantly correlated to the higher level of PSA, Gleason score, more advanced T-stage, and distant metastasis status. Conclusion We identify and validate the clinical significance of three sDMIRs and establish a verified RSM to evaluate the prognosis for PCa patients. The findings not only provide a reliable tool for clinical decision-makers to evaluate patients' prognosis but also offer a novel perspective into the field of biomarker identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Che
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Maternity and Child Health Hospital of Chongqing Hechuan, Chongqing, China
| | - Shihao Jiang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Weiyang Zhang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Huixuan Zhu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Daorong Hu
- Department of Urology, The People's Hospital of Hechuan, Chongqing, China
- Correspondence: Delin Wang tgzy2021202110@126com Daorong Hu
| | - Delin Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Correspondence: Delin Wang tgzy2021202110@126com Daorong Hu
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18
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Lu Y, Ma S, Ding W, Sun P, Zhou Q, Duan Y, Sartorius K. Resident Immune Cells of the Liver in the Tumor Microenvironment. Front Oncol 2022; 12:931995. [PMID: 35965506 PMCID: PMC9365660 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.931995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The liver is a central immunomodulator that ensures a homeostatic balance between protection and immunotolerance. A hallmark of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the deregulation of this tightly controlled immunological network. Immune response in the liver involves a complex interplay between resident innate, innate, and adaptive immune cells. The immune response in the liver is modulated by its continuous exposure to toxic molecules and microorganisms that requires a degree of immune tolerance to protect normal tissue from damage. In HCC pathogenesis, immune cells must balance a dual role that includes the elimination of malignant cells, as well as the repair of damaged liver tissue to maintain homeostasis. Immune response in the innate and adaptive immune systems extends to the cross-talk and interaction involving immune-regulating non-hematopoietic cells, myeloid immune cells, and lymphoid immune cells. In this review, we discuss the different immune responses of resident immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. Current FDA-approved targeted therapies, including immunotherapy options, have produced modest results to date for the treatment of advanced HCC. Although immunotherapy therapy to date has demonstrated its potential efficacy, immune cell pathways need to be better understood. In this review article, we summarize the roles of specific resident immune cell subsets and their cross-talk subversion in HCC pathogenesis, with a view to identifying potential new biomarkers and therapy options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunjie Lu
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Chanozhou, China
| | - Shiying Ma
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Chanozhou, China
| | - Wei Ding
- Department of General Surgery, Wujin Hospital Affiliated to Jiangsu University, Changzhou, China
| | - Pengcheng Sun
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Chanozhou, China
| | - Qi Zhou
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Chanozhou, China
- *Correspondence: Qi Zhou, ; Yunfei Duan, ; Kurt Sartorius,
| | - Yunfei Duan
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Chanozhou, China
- *Correspondence: Qi Zhou, ; Yunfei Duan, ; Kurt Sartorius,
| | - Kurt Sartorius
- Hepatitis Diversity Research Unit, School of Internal Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Africa Hepatopancreatobiliary Cancer Consortium (AHPBCC), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
- University of Kwazulu-Natal Gastrointestinal Cancer Research Unit (UKZN/GICRC), Durban, South Africa
- *Correspondence: Qi Zhou, ; Yunfei Duan, ; Kurt Sartorius,
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19
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Li T, Zhang S, Yang Y, Zhang L, Yuan Y, Zou J. Co-regulation of circadian clock genes and microRNAs in bone metabolism. J Zhejiang Univ Sci B 2022; 23:529-546. [PMID: 35794684 DOI: 10.1631/jzus.b2100958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian bone is constantly metabolized from the embryonic stage, and the maintenance of bone health depends on the dynamic balance between bone resorption and bone formation, mediated by osteoclasts and osteoblasts. It is widely recognized that circadian clock genes can regulate bone metabolism. In recent years, the regulation of bone metabolism by non-coding RNAs has become a hotspot of research. MicroRNAs can participate in bone catabolism and anabolism by targeting key factors related to bone metabolism, including circadian clock genes. However, research in this field has been conducted only in recent years and the mechanisms involved are not yet well established. Recent studies have focused on how to target circadian clock genes to treat some diseases, such as autoimmune diseases, but few have focused on the co-regulation of circadian clock genes and microRNAs in bone metabolic diseases. Therefore, in this paper we review the progress of research on the co-regulation of bone metabolism by circadian clock genes and microRNAs, aiming to provide new ideas for the prevention and treatment of bone metabolic diseases such as osteoporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Li
- School of Exercise and Health, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou 510500, China.,School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Shihua Zhang
- College of Graduate Education, Jinan Sport University, Jinan 250102, China
| | - Yuxuan Yang
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Lingli Zhang
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Yu Yuan
- School of Exercise and Health, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou 510500, China. ,
| | - Jun Zou
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai 200438, China.
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20
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Yin TF, Du SY, Zhao DY, Sun XZ, Zhou YC, Wang QQ, Zhou GYJ, Yao SK. Identification of circ_0000375 and circ_0011536 as novel diagnostic biomarkers of colorectal cancer. World J Clin Cases 2022; 10:3352-3368. [PMID: 35611198 PMCID: PMC9048569 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i11.3352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer (CRC) imposes a tremendous burden on human health, with high morbidity and mortality. Circular ribonucleic acids (circRNAs), a new type of noncoding RNA, are considered to participate in cancer pathogenesis as microRNA (miRNA) sponges. However, the dysregulation and biological functions of circRNAs in CRC remain to be explored.
AIM To identify potential circRNA biomarkers of CRC and explore their functions in CRC carcinogenesis.
METHODS CircRNAs and miRNAs differentially expressed in CRC tissues were identified by analyzing expression profiles from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Circ_0000375 and circ_0011536 were selected as CRC biomarker candidates. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was utilized to evaluate the expression of these 2 circRNAs in CRC tissues, serums and cell lines. Receiver operating characteristic curves were generated to assess the diagnostic performances of these 2 circRNAs. Then, functional experiments, including cell counting kit-8, wound healing and Transwell invasion assays, were performed after the overexpression of circ_0000375 and circ_0011536 in CRC cell lines. Furthermore, candidate target miRNAs of circ_0000375 and circ_0011536 were predicted via bioinformatics analysis. The expression levels of these miRNAs were explored in CRC cell lines and tissues from GEO datasets. A luciferase reporter assay was developed to examine the interactions between circRNAs and miRNAs. Based on the target miRNAs and downstream genes, functional enrichment analyses were applied to reveal the critical signaling pathways involved in CRC carcinogenesis.
RESULTS Downregulated circ_0000375 and circ_0011536 expression was observed in CRC tissues in GSE126095, clinical CRC tissue and serum samples and CRC cell lines. The areas under the curve for circ_0000375 and circ_0011536 were 0.911 and 0.885 in CRC tissue and 0.976 and 0.982 in CRC serum, respectively. Moreover, the serum levels of these 2 circRNAs were higher in patients at 30 d postsurgery than in patients before surgery, suggesting that the serum expression of circ_0000375 and circ_0011536 is related to CRC tumorigenesis. Circ_0000375 and circ_0011536 overexpression inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of CRC cells. Furthermore, miR-1182 and miR-1246, which were overexpressed in CRC tissues in GSE41655, GSE49246 and GSE115513, were verified as target miRNAs of circ_0000375 and circ_0011536, respectively, by luciferase reporter assays. The downstream genes of miR-1182 and miR-1246 were enriched in some CRC-associated pathways, such as the Wnt signaling pathway.
CONCLUSION Circ_0000375 and circ_0011536 may function as tumor suppressors in CRC progression, serving as novel biomarkers for CRC diagnosis and as promising candidates for therapeutic exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teng-Fei Yin
- Graduate School, Peking University China-Japan Friendship School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Shi-Yu Du
- Graduate School, Peking University China-Japan Friendship School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Dong-Yan Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing 100029, China
- Graduate School, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Xi-Zhen Sun
- Graduate School, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing 100035, China
| | - Yuan-Chen Zhou
- Graduate School, Peking University China-Japan Friendship School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Qian-Qian Wang
- Graduate School, Peking University China-Japan Friendship School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Ge-Yu-Jia Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing 100029, China
- Graduate School, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Shu-Kun Yao
- Graduate School, Peking University China-Japan Friendship School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing 100029, China
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21
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Song J, Zhou H, Gu D, Xu Y. Hepatocellular Carcinoma Differentiation: Research Progress in Mechanism and Treatment. Front Oncol 2022; 11:790358. [PMID: 35096588 PMCID: PMC8790246 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.790358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary malignant tumor of the liver. Although progress has been made in diagnosis and treatment, morbidity and mortality continue to rise. Chronic liver disease and liver cirrhosis are still the most important risk factors for liver cancer. Although there are many treatments, it can only be cured by orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) or surgical resection. And the worse the degree of differentiation, the worse the prognosis of patients with liver cancer. Then it can be considered that restoring a better state of differentiation may improve the prognosis. The differentiation treatment of liver cancer is to reverse the dedifferentiation process of hepatocytes to liver cancer cells by means of drugs, improve the differentiation state of the tumor, and restore the normal liver characteristics, so as to improve the prognosis. Understanding the mechanism of dedifferentiation of liver cancer can provide ideas for drug design. Liver enrichment of transcription factors, imbalance of signal pathway and changes of tumor microenvironment can promote the occurrence and development of liver cancer, and restoring its normal level can inhibit the malignant behavior of tumor. At present, some drugs have been proved to be effective, but more clinical data are needed to support the effectiveness and reliability of drugs. The differentiation treatment of liver cancer is expected to become an important part of the treatment of liver cancer in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianning Song
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Guangzhou Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hongzhong Zhou
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Dayong Gu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yong Xu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Guangzhou Medical University, Shenzhen, China
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22
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Cucarull B, Tutusaus A, Rider P, Hernáez-Alsina T, Cuño C, García de Frutos P, Colell A, Marí M, Morales A. Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Molecular Pathogenesis and Therapeutic Advances. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14030621. [PMID: 35158892 PMCID: PMC8833604 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common form of liver cancer, continues to be a serious medical problem with poor prognosis, without major therapeutic improvement for years and increasing incidence. Fortunately, advances in systemic treatment options are finally arriving for HCC patients. After a decade of sorafenib as a standard therapy for advanced HCC, several tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), antiangiogenic antibodies, and immune checkpoint inhibitors have reached the clinic. Although infections by hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus remain principal factors for HCC development, the rise of non- alcoholic steatohepatitis from diabetes mellitus or metabolic syndrome is impeding HCC decline. Knowledge of specific molecular mechanisms, based on the etiology and the HCC microenvironment that influence tumor growth and immune control, will be crucial for physician decision-making among a variety of drugs to prescribe. In addition, markers of treatment efficacy are needed to speed the movement of patients towards other potentially effective treatments. Consequently, research to provide scientific data for the evidence-based management of liver cancer is guaranteed in the coming years and discussed here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blanca Cucarull
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, IIBB-CSIC, IDIBAPS, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (B.C.); (A.T.); (P.R.); (C.C.); (P.G.d.F.); (A.C.)
| | - Anna Tutusaus
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, IIBB-CSIC, IDIBAPS, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (B.C.); (A.T.); (P.R.); (C.C.); (P.G.d.F.); (A.C.)
| | - Patricia Rider
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, IIBB-CSIC, IDIBAPS, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (B.C.); (A.T.); (P.R.); (C.C.); (P.G.d.F.); (A.C.)
| | | | - Carlos Cuño
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, IIBB-CSIC, IDIBAPS, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (B.C.); (A.T.); (P.R.); (C.C.); (P.G.d.F.); (A.C.)
| | - Pablo García de Frutos
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, IIBB-CSIC, IDIBAPS, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (B.C.); (A.T.); (P.R.); (C.C.); (P.G.d.F.); (A.C.)
- Unidad Asociada (IMIM), IIBB-CSIC, CIBERCV, IDIBAPS, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Colell
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, IIBB-CSIC, IDIBAPS, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (B.C.); (A.T.); (P.R.); (C.C.); (P.G.d.F.); (A.C.)
- Network Center for Biomedical Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Montserrat Marí
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, IIBB-CSIC, IDIBAPS, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (B.C.); (A.T.); (P.R.); (C.C.); (P.G.d.F.); (A.C.)
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (A.M.); Tel.: +34-932558314 (M.M. & A.M.)
| | - Albert Morales
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, IIBB-CSIC, IDIBAPS, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (B.C.); (A.T.); (P.R.); (C.C.); (P.G.d.F.); (A.C.)
- Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer Group, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, University of Barcelona, CIBEREHD, IDIBAPS, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (A.M.); Tel.: +34-932558314 (M.M. & A.M.)
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Ghafouri-Fard S, Khoshbakht T, Hussen BM, Taheri M, Samadian M. A Review on the Role of miR-1246 in the Pathoetiology of Different Cancers. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 8:771835. [PMID: 35047553 PMCID: PMC8762223 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.771835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
miR-1246 is a microRNA firstly recognized through application of a high throughput sequencing technique in human embryonic stem cells. Subsequent studies have shown the role of this microRNA in the carcinogenesis. miR-1246 has been found to exert oncogenic roles in colorectal, breast, renal, oral, laryngeal, pancreatic and ovarian cancers as well as melanoma and glioma. In lung, cervical and liver cancers, studies have reported contradictory results regarding the role of miR-1246. miR-1246 has been reported to regulate activity of RAF/MEK/ERK, GSK3β, Wnt/β-catenin, JAK/STAT, PI3K/AKT, THBS2/MMP and NOTCH2 pathways. In addition to affecting cell cycle progression and proliferation, miR-1246 can influence stemness and resistance of cancer cells to therapeutics. In the current review, we describe the summary of in vitro and in vivo studies about the influence of miR-1246 in carcinogenesis in addition to studies that measured expression levels of miR-1246 in clinical samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soudeh Ghafouri-Fard
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tayyebeh Khoshbakht
- Men's Health and Reproductive Health Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bashdar Mahmud Hussen
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq.,Center of Research and Strategic Studies, Lebanese French University, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Mohammad Taheri
- Institute of Human Genetics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Mohammad Samadian
- Skull Base Research Center, Loghman Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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24
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Mariam A, Miller-Atkins G, Moro A, Rodarte AI, Siddiqi S, Acevedo-Moreno LA, Brown JM, Allende DS, Aucejo F, Rotroff DM. Salivary miRNAs as non-invasive biomarkers of hepatocellular carcinoma: a pilot study. PeerJ 2022; 10:e12715. [PMID: 35036096 PMCID: PMC8742548 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.12715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Improved detection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is needed, as current detection methods, such as alpha fetoprotein (AFP) and ultrasound, suffer from poor sensitivity. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNAs that regulate many cellular functions and impact cancer development and progression. Notably, miRNAs are detectable in saliva and have shown potential as non-invasive biomarkers for a number of cancers including breast, oral, and lung cancers. Here, we present, to our knowledge, the first report of salivary miRNAs in HCC and compare these findings to patients with cirrhosis, a high-risk cohort for HCC. METHODS We performed small RNA sequencing in 20 patients with HCC and 19 with cirrhosis. Eleven patients with HCC had chronic liver disease, and analyses were performed with these samples combined and stratified by the presence of chronic liver disease. P values were adjusted for multiple comparisons using a false discovery rate (FDR) approach and miRNA with FDR P < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Differential expression of salivary miRNAs was compared to a previously published report of miRNAs in liver tissue of patients with HCC vs cirrhosis. Support vector machines and leave-one-out cross-validation were performed to determine if salivary miRNAs have predictive potential for detecting HCC. RESULTS A total of 4,565 precursor and mature miRNAs were detected in saliva and 365 were significantly different between those with HCC compared to cirrhosis (FDR P < 0.05). Interestingly, 283 of these miRNAs were significantly downregulated in patients with HCC. Machine-learning identified a combination of 10 miRNAs and covariates that accurately classified patients with HCC (AUC = 0.87). In addition, we identified three miRNAs that were differentially expressed in HCC saliva samples and in a previously published study of miRNAs in HCC tissue compared to cirrhotic liver tissue. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates, for the first time, that miRNAs relevant to HCC are detectable in saliva, that salivary miRNA signatures show potential to be highly sensitive and specific non-invasive biomarkers of HCC, and that additional studies utilizing larger cohorts are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arshiya Mariam
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
| | - Galen Miller-Atkins
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
| | - Amika Moro
- Department of General Surgery, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
| | | | - Shirin Siddiqi
- Department of General Surgery, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
| | | | - J. Mark Brown
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States,Center for Microbiome and Human Health, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
| | - Daniela S. Allende
- Department of Pathology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
| | - Federico Aucejo
- Department of General Surgery, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
| | - Daniel M. Rotroff
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States,Endocrinology and Metabolism Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
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25
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Liu S, Wen Y, Quan B, Lin J, Zhu Z, Tang J, Han S. [High expression of miR-3682-3p is an unfavorable prognostic factor of hepatocellular carcinoma]. NAN FANG YI KE DA XUE XUE BAO = JOURNAL OF SOUTHERN MEDICAL UNIVERSITY 2021; 41:1885-1891. [PMID: 35012923 DOI: 10.12122/j.issn.1673-4254.2021.12.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the expression of miR-3682-3p in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and its correlation with clinical parameters and prognosis of HCC. METHODS We conducted a bioinformatics analysis of the expression of miR-3682-3p in HCC and its correlation with the patients' survival, and examined its expression in 18 pairs of fresh and 90 pairs of paraffin-embedded HCC and adjacent tissues using real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR and in situ hybridization, respectively. The correlation of miR-3682-3p expression in HCC with the clinical parameters and prognosis of the patients was analyzed. Multivariate regression analysis was used to explore the possibility of miR-3682-3p expression as an independent prognostic factor of HCC. RESULTS Bioinformatics analysis showed that miR-3682-3p was highly expressed in HCC and significantly correlated with the survival time of HCC patients (χ2=8.793, P < 0.001). The expression of miR-3682-3p was significantly up-regulated in fresh HCC tissues as compared with the adjacent liver tissues (t=3.073, P=0.007). In paraffin-embedded samples, in situ hybridization revealed positive miR-3682-3p expression in the cytoplasm of HCC and adjacent tissues, and its expression was signifcantly up-regulated in HCC tissues (t=2.659, P=0.009). The expression level of miR-3682-3p was significantly correlated with American Joint Commission on Cancer (AJCC; 8th edition) stage (χ2=4.272, P= 0.039), HBV surface antigen status (χ2=5.143, P=0.023), recurrence (χ2=4.593, P=0.032), tumor size (χ2=4.580, P=0.032) and Edmondson Steiner grade (χ2=4.068, P=0.044). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that a higher expression of miR-3682-3p was associated with a shorter overall survival time (χ2=4.169, P=0.041) and disease-free survival time (χ2=4.078, P=0.043) of the patients. Multivariate analysis suggested that miR-3682-3p expression was an independent predictor of the prognosis of HCC patients. CONCLUSION MiR-3682-3p is up-regulated in HCC to serve as a significant factor that contributes to the occurrence and a poor prognosis of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Pingxiang People's Hospital, Pingxiang 337000, China
| | - Y Wen
- Department of Oncology, Pingxiang People's Hospital, Pingxiang 337000, China.,Cancer Center, Integrated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510220, China
| | - B Quan
- Department of Oncology, Songshanhu Central Hospital of Dongguan, Dongguan 523000, China
| | - J Lin
- Intensive Care Unit, Pingxiang People's Hospital, Pingxiang 337000, China
| | - Z Zhu
- Department of Oncology, Pingxiang People's Hospital, Pingxiang 337000, China
| | - J Tang
- Department of Oncology, Pingxiang People's Hospital, Pingxiang 337000, China
| | - S Han
- Department of Oncology, Songshanhu Central Hospital of Dongguan, Dongguan 523000, China
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26
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Tang W, Xue J, Luo L, Wang Y, Cai X, Liu Y, Huang D, Wang X, He T, Lu D, Yang F. Kangxianruangan granule‑containing serum mediated inhibition of hepatic oval cell differentiation into hepatocellular carcinoma cells via the Wnt‑1/β‑catenin signaling pathway. Mol Med Rep 2021; 25:55. [PMID: 34913065 PMCID: PMC8711029 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2021.12571] [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: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is a malignancy with poor clinical prognosis. Hepatic oval cells (HOCs) tend to differentiate into cancerous hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HCCs) in the tumor microenvironment. The purpose of the present study was to explore the role of kangxianruangan granule (KXRG)-containing serum in inhibiting the differentiation of HOCs into HCCs via the Wnt-1/β-catenin signaling pathway. N-methyl-N′-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG) was applied to induce the transformation of the rat HOC cell line WB-F344 into HCCs. The overexpression plasmid, Wnt-1-up, was utilized to increase Wnt-1 expression. Subsequently, high, medium and low concentrations of KXRG were applied to MNNG-treated WB-F344 cells to assess the inhibitory effect of KXRG on cell differentiation. Flow cytometry was conducted to detect the cell cycle distribution, apoptotic rate and expression of cytokeratin-19 (CK-19) protein in cells. An immunofluorescence double staining protocol was used to detect the expression of Wnt-1 and β-catenin. ELISAs were performed to detect α fetoprotein in the cell supernatants. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and western blotting were conducted to detect the mRNA and protein expression levels of Wnt-1, β-catenin, Cyclin D1, C-myc, matrix metalloproteinase-7 (MMP-7), Axin2 and epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) in cells. Compared with the normal group, the apoptotic rate, proportion of S phase cells, concentration of AFP in the cell supernatant, level of CK-19 protein, and mRNA and protein expression levels of Wnt-1, β-catenin, Cyclin D1, C-myc, MMP-7, Axin2 and EpCAM were all significantly increased in the model group. Addition of KXRG significantly reduced the aforementioned indicators compared with the model group. Moreover, Wnt-1 overexpression further increased the aforementioned indicators compared with the model group, whereas KXRG significantly inhibited these effects. The results indicated that KXRG inhibited the differentiation of HOCs into HCCs via the Wnt-1/β-catenin signaling pathway, which suggested the potential clinical application of KXRG for the prevention of hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenqian Tang
- Health Management Centre, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, P.R. China
| | - Juan Xue
- Clinical College of Chinese Medicine, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei 430061, P.R. China
| | - Lei Luo
- Health Management Centre, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, P.R. China
| | - Yao Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Xin Cai
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The People's Hospital of Jiangshan, Jiangshan, Zhejiang 324100, P.R. China
| | - Yuqing Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Yancheng TCM Hospital Affiliated Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 224001, P.R. China
| | - Dawei Huang
- Department of Hepatology, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, P.R. China
| | - Xiaodong Wang
- Department of Hepatology, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, P.R. China
| | - Tangqing He
- Department of Hepatology, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, P.R. China
| | - Dingbo Lu
- Department of Hepatology, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, P.R. China
| | - Fan Yang
- Health Management Centre, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, P.R. China
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Ma X, Chen H, Li L, Yang F, Wu C, Tao K. CircGSK3B promotes RORA expression and suppresses gastric cancer progression through the prevention of EZH2 trans-inhibition. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2021; 40:330. [PMID: 34666800 PMCID: PMC8524915 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-02136-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNA that play critical roles in the development and pathogenesis of various cancers. The circRNA circGSK3B (hsa_circ_0003763) has been shown to enhance cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in hepatocellular carcinoma. However, the specific functions and underlying mechanistic involvement of circGSK3B in gastric cancer (GC) have not yet been explored. Our study aimed to investigate the effect of circGSK3B on the progression of GC and to identify any potential mechanisms underlying this process. METHODS CircRNA datasets associated with GC were obtained from the PubMed, GEO, and ArrayExpress databases, and circRNAs were validated via RT-qPCR and Sanger sequencing. Biotin-labeled RNA pull-down, mass spectrometry, RNA immunoprecipitation, and in vitro binding assays were employed to determine proteins demonstrating interactions with circGSK3B. Gene expression regulation was assessed through RT-qPCR, chromatin immunoprecipitation, and western blot assays. Gain- and loss-of-function assays were used to analyze any effects of circGSK3B and its partner regulatory molecule (EZH2) on the proliferation, invasion, and migration abilities of GC cells both in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS CircGSK3B was mainly identified in the nucleus. This circRNA was present at a reduced concentration in GC tissues and cell lines. Overexpression of circGSK3B was shown to inhibit the growth, invasion, and metastasis of GC cells both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, circGSK3B directly interacted with EZH2, acting to suppress the binding of EZH2 and H3K27me3 to the RORA promoter, and leading to an elevation in RORA expression and ultimately the suppression of GC progression. CONCLUSIONS CircGSK3B acts as a tumor suppressor, reducing EZH2 trans-inhibition and GC progression. This demonstrates the potential use of this RNA as a therapeutic target for GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianxiong Ma
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Hengyu Chen
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, 570102, China
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Feng Yang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Chuanqing Wu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
| | - Kaixiong Tao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
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Abstract
Liver metastasis, originating either from a primary liver or other cancer types, represent a large cancer-related burden. Therefore, studies that add to better understanding of its molecular basis are needed. Herein, the role of the Wnt signaling pathway in liver metastasis is outlined. Its role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), motility, migration, metastasis formation, and other steps of the metastatic cascade are presented. Additionally, the roles of the Wnt signaling pathway in the liver metastasis formation of colorectal, breast, gastric, lung, melanoma, pancreatic, and prostate cancer are explored. The special emphasis is given to the role of the Wnt signaling pathway in the communication between the many of the components of the primary and secondary cancer microenvironment that contribute to the metastatic outgrowth in the liver. The data presented herein are a review of the most recent publications and advances in the field that add to the idea that the Wnt pathway is among the drivers of liver metastasis and that its targeting could potentially relieve liver metastasis–related complications.
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29
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Ezhilarasan D. Hepatic stellate cells in the injured liver: Perspectives beyond hepatic fibrosis. J Cell Physiol 2021; 237:436-449. [PMID: 34514599 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Over the last two decades, our understanding of the pathological role of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) in fibrotic liver disease has increased dramatically. As HSCs are identified as the principal collagen-producing cells in the injured liver, several experimental and clinical studies have targeted HSCs to treat liver fibrosis. However, HSCs also play a critical role in developing nonfibrotic liver diseases such as cholestasis, portal hypertension, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Therefore, this review exclusively focuses on the role of activated HSCs beyond hepatic fibrosis. In cholestasis conditions, elevated bile salts and bile acids activate HSCs to secrete collagen and other extracellular matrix products, which cause biliary fibrosis and cholangitis. In the chronically injured liver, autocrine and paracrine signaling from liver sinusoidal endothelial cells activates HSCs to induce portal hypertension via endothelin-1 release. In the tumor microenvironment (TME), activated HSCs are the major source of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF). The crosstalk between activated HSC/CAF and tumor cells is associated with tumor cell proliferation, migration, metastasis, and chemoresistance. In TME, activated HSCs convert macrophages to tumor-associated macrophages and induce the differentiation of dendritic cells (DCs) and monocytes to regulatory DCs and myeloid-derived suppressor cells, respectively. This differentiation, in turn, increases T cells proliferation and induces their apoptosis leading to reduced immune surveillance in TME. Thus, HSCs activation in chronically injured liver is a critical process involved in the progression of cholestasis, portal hypertension, and liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devaraj Ezhilarasan
- Department of Pharmacology, The Blue Lab, Molecular Medicine and Toxicology Division, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
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30
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Chen S, Fu Z, Wen S, Yang X, Yu C, Zhou W, Lin Y, Lv Y. Expression and Diagnostic Value of miR-497 and miR-1246 in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Genet 2021; 12:666306. [PMID: 34163524 PMCID: PMC8215616 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.666306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Serum microRNAs (miRNAs) may serve as biomarkers in various cancers. Our study aims to explore the roles of miR-497 and miR-1246 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods The expression levels of miR-497 and miR-1246 were measured by RT-PCR. A correlation analysis was conducted between the expression levels of miR-497 and miR-1246 and clinicopathological characteristics of patients. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was applied to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy in HCC. In addition, bioinformatics tools were also utilized to predict the potential targets of miR-497 and miR-1246. Results The expression level of miR-497 in HCC was significantly down-regulated compared with the control group while the miR-1246 revealed a significantly higher expression level in HCC. There was a significant correlation demonstrated between the expression levels of miR-497 and miR-1246 in preoperative serum of HCC and the differentiation degree, Tumor Node Metastasis (TNM) classification, and metastasis. The expression levels of serum miR-497 and miR-1246 were significantly associated with the diagnosis, prognosis, and overall survival rate of patients with HCC. Moreover, the potential target genes of miR-497 in HCC include ARL2, UBE2Q1, PHF19, APLN, CHEK1, CASK, SUCO, CCNE1, and KIF23. The low expression of these nine genes is associated with a better prognosis of HCC patients. AUTS2 is a novel target gene of miR-1246, and its low expression is significantly related to the low overall survival rate of HCC patients. Conclusions miR-497 and miR-1246 are possibly involved in the progression of HCC by regulating target genes, respectively, and could serve as biomarkers in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuying Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zile Fu
- Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuzhan Wen
- Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoyi Yang
- School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chengxuan Yu
- School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenhan Zhou
- Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong Lin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan Lv
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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31
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Kotulak-Chrząszcz A, Kmieć Z, Wierzbicki PM. Sonic Hedgehog signaling pathway in gynecological and genitourinary cancer (Review). Int J Mol Med 2021; 47:106. [PMID: 33907821 PMCID: PMC8057295 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2021.4939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancers of the urinary tract, as well as those of the female and male reproductive systems, account for a large percentage of malignancies worldwide. Mortality is frequently affected by late diagnosis or therapeutic difficulties. The Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) pathway is an evolutionary conserved molecular cascade, which is mainly associated with the development of the central nervous system in fetal life. The present review aimed to provide an in‑depth summary of the SHH signaling pathway, including the characterization of its major components, the mechanism of its upstream regulation and non‑canonical activation, as well as its interactions with other cellular pathways. In addition, the three possible mechanisms of the cellular SHH cascade in cancer tissue are discussed. The aim of the present review was to summarize significant findings with regards to the expression of the SHH pathway components in kidney, bladder, ovarian, cervical and prostate cancer. Reports associated with common deficits and de‑regulations of the SHH pathway were summarized, despite the differences in molecular and histological patterns among these malignancies. However, currently, neither are SHH pathway elements included in panels of prognostic/therapeutic molecular patterns in any of the discussed cancers, nor have the drugs targeting SMO or GLIs been approved for therapy. The findings of the present review may support future studies on the treatment of and/or molecular targets for gynecological and genitourinary cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Piotr M. Wierzbicki
- Correspondence to: Dr Piotr M. Wierzbicki, Department of Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdansk, ul. Debinki 1, 80211 Gdansk, Poland, E-mail:
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32
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Gramantieri L, Giovannini C, Piscaglia F, Fornari F. MicroRNAs as Modulators of Tumor Metabolism, Microenvironment, and Immune Response in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2021; 8:369-385. [PMID: 34012928 PMCID: PMC8126872 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s268292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Molecular heterogeneity and absence of biomarkers helping patient allocation to the best therapeutic option contribute to poor prognosis in advanced stages. MicroRNAs’ (miRNAs) deregulated expression contributes to tumor development and progression and influences drug resistance in HCC. Accordingly, miRNAs have been extensively investigated as both biomarkers and therapeutic targets. The diagnostic and prognostic roles of circulating miRNAs have been ascertained, though with some inconsistencies across studies. From a therapeutic perspective, miRNA-based approaches demonstrated safety profiles and antitumor efficacy in HCC animal models. Nevertheless, caution should be used when transferring preclinical findings to the clinic, due to possible molecular inconsistency between animal models and the heterogeneous patterns of human diseases. A wealth of information is offered by preclinical studies exploring the mechanisms driving miRNAs’ aberrant expression, the molecular cascades triggered by miRNAs and the corresponding phenotypic changes. Ex-vivo analyses confirmed these results, further shedding light on the intricacy of the human disease often overcoming pre-clinical models. This complexity seems to be ascribed to the intrinsic heterogeneity of HCC, to different risk factors driving its development, as well as to changes across stages and previous treatments. Preliminary findings suggest that miRNAs associated with specific risk factors might be more informative in defined patients’ subgroups. The first issue to be considered when trying to envisage a possible translational perspective is the molecular context that often drives different miRNA functions, as clearly evidenced by “dual” miRNAs. Concerning the possible roles of miRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets, we will focus on miRNAs’ involvement in metabolic pathways and in the modulation of tumor microenvironment, to support their exploitation in defined contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Gramantieri
- Division of Internal Medicine, Hepatobiliary and Immunoallergic Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Catia Giovannini
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Centre for Applied Biomedical Research - CRBA, University of Bologna, St. Orsola Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Fabio Piscaglia
- Division of Internal Medicine, Hepatobiliary and Immunoallergic Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Fornari
- Centre for Applied Biomedical Research - CRBA, University of Bologna, St. Orsola Hospital, Bologna, Italy.,Department for Life Quality Studies (QuVi), University of Bologna, Rimini, Italy
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33
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Ma H, Kang J, Fan W, He H, Huang F. ROR: Nuclear Receptor for Melatonin or Not? Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26092693. [PMID: 34064466 PMCID: PMC8124216 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26092693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Whether the retinoic acid-related orphan receptor (ROR) is a nuclear receptor of melatonin remains controversial. ROR is inextricably linked to melatonin in terms of its expression, function, and mechanism of action. Additionally, studies have illustrated that melatonin functions analogous to ROR ligands, thereby modulating the transcriptional activity of ROR. However, studies supporting these interactions have since been withdrawn. Furthermore, recent crystallographic evidence does not support the view that ROR is a nuclear receptor of melatonin. Some other studies have proposed that melatonin indirectly regulates ROR activity rather than directly binding to ROR. This review aims to delve into the complex relationship of the ROR receptor with melatonin in terms of its structure, expression, function, and mechanism. Thus, we provide the latest evidence and views on direct binding as well as indirect regulation of ROR by melatonin, dissecting both viewpoints in-depth to provide a more comprehensive perspective on this issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haozhen Ma
- Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510055, China; (H.M.); (J.K.); (W.F.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Jun Kang
- Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510055, China; (H.M.); (J.K.); (W.F.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Wenguo Fan
- Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510055, China; (H.M.); (J.K.); (W.F.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Hongwen He
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou 510080, China
- Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
- Correspondence: (H.H.); (F.H.); Tel.: +86-20-8733-0570 (H.H. & F.H.)
| | - Fang Huang
- Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510055, China; (H.M.); (J.K.); (W.F.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou 510080, China
- Correspondence: (H.H.); (F.H.); Tel.: +86-20-8733-0570 (H.H. & F.H.)
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34
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Wu J, Nagy LE, Liangpunsakul S, Wang L. Non-coding RNA crosstalk with nuclear receptors in liver disease. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2021; 1867:166083. [PMID: 33497819 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2021.166083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The dysregulation of nuclear receptors (NRs) underlies the pathogenesis of a variety of liver disorders. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are defined as RNA molecules transcribed from DNA but not translated into proteins. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are two types of ncRNAs that have been extensively studied for regulating gene expression during diverse cellular processes. NRs as therapeutic targets in liver disease have been exemplified by the successful application of their pharmacological ligands in clinics. MiRNA-based reagents or drugs are emerging as flagship products in clinical trials. Advancing our understanding of the crosstalk between NRs and ncRNAs is critical to the development of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. This review summarizes recent findings on the reciprocal regulation between NRs and ncRNAs (mainly on miRNAs and lncRNAs) and their implication in liver pathophysiology, which might be informative to the translational medicine of targeting NRs and ncRNAs in liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianguo Wu
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States of America; Department of Molecular Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States of America.
| | - Laura E Nagy
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States of America; Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States of America; Department of Molecular Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
| | - Suthat Liangpunsakul
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America; Roudebush Veterans Administration Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States of America
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35
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Wang W, Huang X, Fan X, Yan J, Luan J. Progress in evaluating the status of hepatitis C infection based on the functional changes of hepatic stellate cells (Review). Mol Med Rep 2020; 22:4116-4124. [PMID: 33000255 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2020.11516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a global public health problem. Cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma are the main causes of death in patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) infection. Liver fibrosis is an important cause of cirrhosis and end‑stage liver disease after CHC infection. Along with the course of infection, liver fibrosis exhibits a progressive exacerbation. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are involved in both physiological and pathological processes of the liver. During the chronic liver injury process, the activated HSCs transform into myofibroblasts, which are important cells in the development of liver fibrosis. At present, HCV infection still lacks specific markers for the accurate detection of the disease condition and progression. Therefore, the present review focused on HSCs, which are closely related to HCV‑infected liver fibrosis, and analyzed the changes in the HSCs, including their surface‑specific markers, cytokine production, activation, cell function and morphological structure. The present review aimed to propose novel diagnostic markers, at both the cellular and molecular level, which would be of great significance for the timely diagnosis of the disease. According to this aim, the characteristic changes of HSCs during HCV infection were reviewed in the present article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- Department of Blood Transfusion Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210002, P.R. China
| | - Xuelian Huang
- Department of Blood Transfusion Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210002, P.R. China
| | - Xuzhou Fan
- Department of Blood Transfusion Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210002, P.R. China
| | - Jingmei Yan
- Department of Blood Transfusion Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210002, P.R. China
| | - Jianfeng Luan
- Department of Blood Transfusion Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210002, P.R. China
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36
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Ezhilarasan D. MicroRNA interplay between hepatic stellate cell quiescence and activation. Eur J Pharmacol 2020; 885:173507. [PMID: 32858048 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.173507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation play a significant role in the progression of hepatic fibrosis. During chronic liver diseases, hepatocytes are damaged severely and secrete several pro-inflammatory markers and profibrogenic cytokines via modulation of a variety of signaling pathways that are responsible for the activation of HSCs. The microRNAs (miRNA or miR) have the potential to modulate fibrogenic signaling pathways in HSCs. A variety of miRNAs are identified as profibrogenic and are capable of activating HSCs by modulating fibrosis-associated signaling pathways such as transforming growth factor-β/Smad, Wnt/β-catenin, Hedgehog, Snail and Notch in the injured liver. On the other hand, HSCs also have certain antifibrotic miRNAs and these include miR-16, miR-19b, miR-29, miR-30, miR-101, miR-122, miR-133a, miR-144, miR-146a, miR-150-5p, miR-155, miR-195, miR-200a, miR-214, miR-335, miR-370, miR-454, miR-483, etc. are responsible for maintenance of the quiescent phenotype of normal HSCs, apoptosis induction and phenotypic reversion of activated HSCs, inhibition of HSCs proliferation, suppression of the extracellular matrix-associated gene expressions, etc. Thus, understanding of HSCs specific miRNAs regulation may provide new ideas for the targeted therapy of hepatic fibrosis at molecular level in the near future. Therefore, this review focusses on the modulation of miRNAs profile during the HSCs activation in the fibrotic liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devaraj Ezhilarasan
- Department of Pharmacology, Biomedical Research Unit and Laboratory Animal Centre, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), No.162, PH Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600 077, India.
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37
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Barry AE, Baldeosingh R, Lamm R, Patel K, Zhang K, Dominguez DA, Kirton KJ, Shah AP, Dang H. Hepatic Stellate Cells and Hepatocarcinogenesis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:709. [PMID: 32850829 PMCID: PMC7419619 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are a significant component of the hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tumor microenvironment (TME). Activated HSCs transform into myofibroblast-like cells to promote fibrosis in response to liver injury or chronic inflammation, leading to cirrhosis and HCC. The hepatic TME is comprised of cellular components, including activated HSCs, tumor-associated macrophages, endothelial cells, immune cells, and non-cellular components, such as growth factors, proteolytic enzymes and their inhibitors, and other extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Interactions between HCC cells and their microenvironment have become topics under active investigation. These interactions within the hepatic TME have the potential to drive carcinogenesis and create challenges in generating effective therapies. Current studies reveal potential mechanisms through which activated HSCs drive hepatocarcinogenesis utilizing matricellular proteins and paracrine crosstalk within the TME. Since activated HSCs are primary secretors of ECM proteins during liver injury and inflammation, they help promote fibrogenesis, infiltrate the HCC stroma, and contribute to HCC development. In this review, we examine several recent studies revealing the roles of HSCs and their clinical implications in the development of fibrosis and cirrhosis within the hepatic TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna E Barry
- Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Rajkumar Baldeosingh
- Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Ryan Lamm
- Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Keyur Patel
- Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Kai Zhang
- Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Dana A Dominguez
- Department of General Surgery, UCSF East Bay, Oakland, CA, United States
| | - Kayla J Kirton
- Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Ashesh P Shah
- Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Hien Dang
- Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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Tian H, Zhu X, Lv Y, Jiao Y, Wang G. Glucometabolic Reprogramming in the Hepatocellular Carcinoma Microenvironment: Cause and Effect. Cancer Manag Res 2020; 12:5957-5974. [PMID: 32765096 PMCID: PMC7381782 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s258196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a tumor that exhibits glucometabolic reprogramming, with a high incidence and poor prognosis. Usually, HCC is not discovered until an advanced stage. Sorafenib is almost the only drug that is effective at treating advanced HCC, and promising metabolism-related therapeutic targets of HCC are urgently needed. The “Warburg effect” illustrates that tumor cells tend to choose aerobic glycolysis over oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), which is closely related to the features of the tumor microenvironment (TME). The HCC microenvironment consists of hypoxia, acidosis and immune suppression, and contributes to tumor glycolysis. In turn, the glycolysis of the tumor aggravates hypoxia, acidosis and immune suppression, and leads to tumor proliferation, angiogenesis, epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), invasion and metastasis. In 2017, a mechanism underlying the effects of gluconeogenesis on inhibiting glycolysis and blockading HCC progression was proposed. Treating HCC by increasing gluconeogenesis has attracted increasing attention from scientists, but few articles have summarized it. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms associated with the TME, glycolysis and gluconeogenesis and the current treatments for HCC. We believe that a treatment combination of sorafenib with TME improvement and/or anti-Warburg therapies will set the trend of advanced HCC therapy in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huining Tian
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyu Zhu
- Department of Nephrology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - You Lv
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Jiao
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Guixia Wang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin, People's Republic of China
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