MiR-383 inhibits proliferation, migration and angiogenesis of glioma-exposed endothelial cells in vitro via VEGF-mediated FAK and Src signaling pathways

microRNAs: critical targets for treating rheumatoid arthritis angiogenesis

Vascular neogenesis, an early event in the development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) inflammation, is critical for the formation of synovial vascular networks and plays a key role in the progression and persistence of chronic RA inflammation. microRNAs (miRNAs), a class of single-stranded, non-coding RNAs with approximately 21-23 nucleotides in length, regulate gene expression by binding to the 3' untranslated region (3'-UTR) of specific mRNAs. Increasing evidence suggests that miRNAs are differently expressed in diseases associated with vascular neogenesis and play a crucial role in disease-related vascular neogenesis. However, current studies are not sufficient and further experimental studies are needed to validate and establish the relationship between miRNAs and diseases associated with vascular neogenesis, and to determine the specific role of miRNAs in vascular development pathways. To better treat vascular neogenesis in diseases such as RA, we need additional studies on the role of miRNAs and their target genes in vascular development, and to provide more strategic references. In addition, future studies can use modern biotechnological methods such as proteomics and transcriptomics to investigate the expression and regulatory mechanisms of miRNAs, providing a more comprehensive and in-depth research basis for the treatment of related diseases such as RA.

MicroRNA copy number alterations in the malignant transformation of pleomorphic adenoma to carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma

OBJECTIVE

This study used array comparative genomic hybridization to assess copy number alterations (CNAs) involving miRNA genes in pleomorphic adenoma (PA), recurrent pleomorphic adenoma (RPA), residual PA, and carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma (CXPA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We analyzed 13 PA, 4 RPA, 29 CXPA, and 14 residual PA using Nexus Copy Number Discovery software. The miRNAs genes affected by CNAs were evaluated based on their expression patterns and subjected to pathway enrichment analysis.

RESULTS

Across the groups, we found 216 CNAs affecting 2261 miRNA genes, with 117 in PA, 59 in RPA, 846 in residual PA, and 2555 in CXPA. The chromosome 8 showed higher involvement in altered miRNAs in PAs and CXPA patients. Six miRNA genes were shared among all groups. Additionally, miR-21, miR-455-3p, miR-140, miR-320a, miR-383, miR-598, and miR-486 were prominent CNAs found and is implicated in carcinogenesis of several malignant tumors. These miRNAs regulate critical signaling pathways such as aerobic glycolysis, fatty acid biosynthesis, and cancer-related pathways.

CONCLUSION

This study was the first to explore CNAs in miRNA-encoding genes in the PA-CXPA sequence. The findings suggest the involvement of numerous miRNA genes in CXPA development and progression by regulating oncogenic signaling pathways.

MiR-383 sensitizes osteosarcoma cells to bortezomib treatment via down-regulating PSMB5

BACKGROUND

Proteasome inhibition is a promising strategy for cancer therapy. Bortezomib, which primarily targets the chymotrypsin-like activity of PSMB5, has demonstrated efficacy in various tumors. However, there is variable sensitivity to bortezomib, which could be attributed, in part, to variations in the expression of proteasome subunits.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In this study, we investigated whether miR-383 affects the expression of proteasome subunits in osteosarcoma (OS) cells, and if so, whether OS cells display differential sensitivity to bortezomib concerning miR-383 expression. We detected a decreased miR-383 expression in OS cells and tissues. Then we found a negative correlation between the cytotoxicity of bortezomib and the expression level of the proteasome 20S core particle subunit β5 (PSMB5). Intriguingly, we identified PSMB5 as a direct target of miR-383. Increased expression of miR-383 resulted in decreased PSMB5 expression and increased sensitivity to bortezomib in OS cells.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, our findings present the initial comprehensive analysis of the function of miR-383 in OS. The outcomes indicate that miR-383 may augment the anticancer effect of bortezomib through PSMB5 repression, offering a novel therapeutic approach in OS and a fresh pathway for proteasome regulation.

The Significant Role of microRNAs in Gliomas Angiogenesis: A Particular Focus on Molecular Mechanisms and Opportunities for Clinical Application

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding RNAs with only 20-22 nucleic acids that inhibit gene transcription and translation by binding to mRNA. MiRNAs have a diverse set of target genes and can alter most physiological processes, including cell cycle checkpoints, cell survival, and cell death mechanisms, affecting the growth, development, and invasion of various cancers, including gliomas. So optimum management of miRNA expression is essential for preserving a normal biological environment. Due to their small size, stability, and capability of specifically targeting oncogenes, miRNAs have emerged as a promising marker and new biopharmaceutical targeted therapy for glioma patients. This review focuses on the most common miRNAs associated with gliomagenesis and development by controlling glioma-determining markers such as angiogenesis. We also summarized the recent research about miRNA effects on signaling pathways, their mechanistic role and cellular targets in the development of gliomas angiogenesis. Strategies for miRNA-based therapeutic targets, as well as limitations in clinical applications, are also discussed.

MicroRNAs in Tumor Endothelial Cells: Regulation, Function and Therapeutic Applications

Tumor endothelial cells (TECs) are key stromal components of the tumor microenvironment, and are essential for tumor angiogenesis, growth and metastasis. Accumulating evidence has shown that small single-stranded non-coding microRNAs (miRNAs) act as powerful endogenous regulators of TEC function and blood vessel formation. This systematic review provides an up-to-date overview of these endothelial miRNAs. Their expression is mainly regulated by hypoxia, pro-angiogenic factors, gap junctions and extracellular vesicles, as well as long non-coding RNAs and circular RNAs. In preclinical studies, they have been shown to modulate diverse fundamental angiogenesis-related signaling pathways and proteins, including the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)/VEGF receptor (VEGFR) pathway; the rat sarcoma virus (Ras)/rapidly accelerated fibrosarcoma (Raf)/mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway; the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathway; and the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β/TGF-β receptor (TGFBR) pathway, as well as krüppel-like factors (KLFs), suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS) and metalloproteinases (MMPs). Accordingly, endothelial miRNAs represent promising targets for future anti-angiogenic cancer therapy. To achieve this, it will be necessary to further unravel the regulatory and functional networks of endothelial miRNAs and to develop safe and efficient TEC-specific miRNA delivery technologies.

miR-383-5p serves as a tumor suppressor in bladder cancer by suppressing PI3K/AKT signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

MicroRNAs have been proven to be key molecules in human malignancy. However, to our knowledge, there is no study reporting miR-383-5p expression level and the role it plays in bladder cancer (BC).

METHODS

We identified miR-383-5p to be one of the tumor-suppressing genes through using data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and GEO database. We evaluate the expression and activity of miR-383-5p in both BC tissue and cell lines. The impacts of miR-383-5p on proliferative, migratory ability and apoptotic rate in BC cell were evaluated by utilizing CCK-8 kits, flow cytometry, and Transwell assays. qRT-PCR, western blot, and luciferase reporter assays have been adopted to investigate the underlying mechanisms. In vivo tumorigenicity testing was conducted to determine the impact of miR-383-5p on BC cellular proliferative capacity.

RESULTS

Reduced miR-383-5p expression has been determined in BC tissue than in normal bladder tissue. Furthermore, BC cell proliferative, migratory ability was inhibited while apoptosis enhanced in vitro and in vivo by miR-383-5p up-regulation. In vitro and in vivo, silencing miR-383-5p considerably improved the growth and invasive capacity of cell, while decreased the apoptotic rates of BC cells.

CONCLUSION

miR-383-5p plays its role as a tumor-suppressing gene by suppressing the PI3K/AKT signaling, hence preventing the development of BC.

Effects of microRNAs on angiogenesis in diabetic wounds

Diabetes mellitus is a morbid condition affecting a growing number of the world population, and approximately one third of diabetic patients are afflicted with diabetic foot ulcers (DFU), which are chronic non-healing wounds that frequently progress to require amputation. The treatments currently used for DFU focus on reducing pressure on the wound, staving off infection, and maintaining a moist environment, but the impaired wound healing that occurs in diabetes is a constant obstacle that must be faced. Aberrant angiogenesis is a major contributor to poor wound healing in diabetes and surgical intervention is often necessary to establish peripheral blood flow necessary for healing wounds. Over recent years, microRNAs (miRNAs) have been implicated in the dysregulation of angiogenesis in multiple pathologies including diabetes. This review explores the pathways of angiogenesis that become dysregulated in diabetes, focusing on miRNAs that have been identified and the mechanisms by which they affect angiogenesis.

Nintedanib Inhibits Endothelial Mesenchymal Transition in Bleomycin-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis via Focal Adhesion Kinase Activity Reduction

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive interstitial lung disease (ILD). Pulmonary fibroblasts play an important role in the development of IPF. Emerging evidence indicates that pulmonary endothelial cells could be the source of pulmonary fibroblasts through endothelial mesenchymal transition (EndoMT), which contributes to pulmonary fibrosis. EndoMT is a complex process in which endothelial cells lose their expression of endothelial markers and give rise to the characteristics of mesenchymal cells, including morphological fibroblast-like change and the expression of mesenchymal markers, which result in cardiac, renal, and dermal fibroses. Furthermore, EndoMT inhibition attenuates pulmonary fibrosis. Herein, we demonstrate that nintedanib, a tyrosine kinase receptor inhibitor, ameliorated murine bleomycin (BLM)-induced pulmonary fibrosis and suppressed the in vivo and in vitro models of EndoMT. We demonstrated that the activity of focal adhesion kinase (FAK), a key EndoMT regulator, increased in murine lung tissues and human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells after BLM stimulation. Nintedanib treatment inhibited BLM-induced FAK activation and thus suppressed both in vivo and in vitro BLM-induced EndoMT. Importantly, we found that the VEGF/FAK signaling pathway was involved in nintedanib regulating EndoMT. These novel findings help us understand the mechanism and signaling pathway of EndoMT to further develop more efficacious drugs for IPF treatment.

MicroRNA Expression Analysis of Mice Retinas with Oxygen-Induced Retinopathy by RNA Sequencing

Purpose. To characterize the microRNA (miRNA) expression profiles in the retinas of mice with oxygen-induced retinopathy by RNA sequencing and to ascertain miRNAs associated with retinal neovascularization. Methods. Retina samples were obtained from 3 groups (6 retinas/group) of OIR mice and normal mice at P17. RNA was isolated from 24 retina samples and then detected on an Illumina HiSeq. Twelve retina samples were used for quantitative polymerase chain reaction to validate the RNA sequencing. Bioinformatics analyses were performed. Result. The RNA sequence showed that 565 miRNAs were detected in the retina of OIR mice and 583 miRNAs in the retina of normal control mice. A total of 553 miRNAs were expressed in both groups. Thirty-eight miRNAs showed altered expression in both groups ( $p\le 0.05$ ). Compared with the control group, 2 miRNAs were significantly upregulated in the OIR group, while 36 miRNAs were significantly downregulated. Meanwhile, 2 candidate miRNAs (miR-181a-5p and miR-21a-5p) with significant differences in miRNA expression ( $p<0.01$ ) were selected for validation. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to confirm the relative expression of the two miRNAs. Bioinformatics analyses showed that pathways involved in ischemic retinopathy (such as TGF-β, Ras, Hippo, PI3K-Akt, VEGF, and HIF-1 signaling pathways) were enriched. Conclusions. Our study provided an overall view of miRNA profiling in the OIR retina. These miRNA profiles provide a valuable framework for the potential therapy of retinal angiogenesis.

A Concise Review of MicroRNA-383: Exploring the Insights of Its Function in Tumorigenesis

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs that commonly have 18-22 nucleotides and play important roles in the regulation of gene expression via directly binding to the 3'-UTR of target mRNAs. Approximately 50% of human genes are regulated by miRNAs and they are involved in many human diseases, including various types of cancers. Recently, microRNA-383 (miR-383) has been identified as being aberrantly expressed in multiple cancers, such as malignant melanoma, colorectal cancer, hepatocellular cancer, and glioma. Increasing evidence suggests that miR-383 participates in tumorigenic events including proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and metastasis as well as drug resistance. Although downstream targets including CCND1, LDHA, VEGF, and IGF are illustrated to be regulated by miR-383, its roles in carcinogenesis are still ambiguous and the underlying mechanisms are still unclear. Herein, we review the latest studies on miR-383 and summarize its functions in human cancers and other diseases. The goal of this review is to provide new strategies for targeted therapy and further investigations.

MicroRNA-383: A tumor suppressor miRNA in human cancer

Downregulated expression of anti-tumor miR-383 has been found in many kinds of cancer. MiR-383 family members can directly target the 3'-untranslated region (3'-UTR) of the mRNA of some pro-tumor genes to attenuate several cancer-related processes, including cell proliferation, invasion, migration, angiogenesis, immunosuppression, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, glycolysis, chemoresistance, and the development of cancer stem cells, whilst promoting apoptosis. Functionally, miR-383 operates as a tumor inhibitor miRNA in many types of cancer, including breast cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, gastric cancer, pancreatic cancer, colorectal cancer, esophageal cancer, lung cancer, head and neck cancer, glioma, medulloblastoma, melanoma, prostate cancer, cervical cancer, oral squamous cell carcinoma, thyroid cancer, and B-cell lymphoma. Both pro-tumor and anti-tumor effects have been attributed to miR-383 in ovarian cancer. However, only the pro-tumor effects of miR-383 were reported in cholangiocarcinoma. The restoration of miR-383 expression could be considered a possible treatment for cancer. This review discusses the anti-tumor effects of miR-383 in human cancers, emphasizing their downstream target genes and potential treatment approaches.

Exosomal lncRNA KLF3-AS1 derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells stimulates angiogenesis to promote diabetic cutaneous wound healing

AIMS

We focused on BMSC-derived exosomal lncRNA KLF3-AS1 and its significance in diabetic cutaneous wound healing.

METHODS

Potential interaction between KLF3-AS1 and miR-383, miR-383 and VEGFA were predicted using bioinformatic analysis and validated by luciferase reporter, RIP, and FISH assays. The proliferation, apoptosis, migration and tube formation of HUVECs were evaluated by CCK-8, flow cytometry, wound healing, and tube formation assays, respectively. A murine diabetic cutaneous wound model was used to investigate therapeutic effects of exosomal KLF3-AS1 in vivo. Histological alterations in skin tissues were examined using HE, Masson staining, and immunostaining of CD31.

RESULTS

BMSC-derived exosomal KLF3-AS1 sufficiently promoted proliferation, migration, and tube formation, while inhibited apoptosis of HUVECs challenged by high glucose. The protective effects of exosomal KLF3-AS1 were achieved at least partially by down-regulating miR-383, and boosting the expression of its target, VEGFA. In vivo, exosomes from KLF3-AS1-expressing BMSCs demonstrated the best effects in promoting cutaneous wound healing in diabetic mice, which were associated with minimal weight loss, increased blood vessel formation, reduced inflammation, decreased miR-383 expression, and up-regulated VEGFA.

CONCLUSIONS

Exosomal lncRNA KLF3-AS1 derived from BMSCs induces angiogenesis to promote diabetic cutaneous wound healing.

miR-383 reduces keratinocyte proliferation and induces the apoptosis in psoriasis via disruption of LCN2-dependent JAK/STAT pathway activation

Psoriasis is a chronic and relapsing disorder with considerable negative effects on patients' quality of life. The finer details associated with the molecular mechanism of psoriasis and its pathogenesis remain somewhat elusive. Extensive studies have highlighted the crucial role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the development of psoriasis. Hence, the current study aimed to investigate the effect of miR-383 on a psoriasis rat model and elucidate the underlying molecular mechanism. The rat psoriasis model was established via imiquimod (IMQ) induction followed by verification of miR-383 and LCN2 expression in the skin tissues of the models. ELISA was conducted to determine the secretion of inflammatory factors. Keratinocyte proliferation and apoptosis was evaluated by MTT assay and flow cytometric analysis. Down-regulation of miR-383 and up-regulation of LCN2 were detected in the psoriasis rat model. Our data indicated that miR-383 targeted LCN2 by binding to its 3'UTR and inhibited JAK/STAT pathway activation. Notably, miR-383 overexpression or LCN2 knockdown attenuated psoriasis-like symptoms, suppressed inflammatory response, reduced the expression of JAK3 and STAT3, ceased keratinocyte proliferation, and promoted the apoptosis. The findings of our study suggest that miR-383 may inhibit LCN2 and inactivate the JAK/STAT pathway, suppressing the progression of psoriasis in a rat model. This study provided novel insights into the pathogenesis of psoriasis and offered potential targets for psoriasis treatment.

MicroRNA-383 promotes reactive oxygen species-induced autophagy via downregulating peroxiredoxin 3 in human glioma U87 cells

Peroxiredoxin 3 (PRDX3) is an abundant and effective enzyme, which aids in the removal of H₂O₂ in the mitochondria, thereby inhibiting cell autophagy. PRDX3 is a target protein of microRNA (miRNA/miR)-383, the overexpression of which has been found to inhibit the growth of glioma cells. We hypothesized that miR-383 serves an antitumor role by inhibiting oxidative stress during tumor growth. In the current study, human glioma U87 cells were transfected with pre-/short hairpin (sh)-PRDX3 vectors and miR-383 mimics/inhibitors. Apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production were detected using flow cytometry. Autophagy was examined using acridine orange staining, and the expression of cytoplasmic autophagy-related proteins [autophagy-related protein 9 (ATG9), Ras-related protein Rab-1A (Rab1) and p62] was determined using western blot analysis. The interaction between miR-383 and PRDX3 was assessed using a dual-luciferase assay. The results indicated that both sh-PRDX3 and miR-383 mimics promoted apoptosis and increased the level of mitochondrial ROS, whilst acridine orange staining revealed that sh-PRDX3 promoted autophagy in U87 cells compared with that in the control cells. The detection of autophagic proteins indicated that sh-PRDX3 and miR-383 mimics increased the protein expression level of ATG9 and RAB1, and inhibited that of p62. On the contrary, the effect of miR-383 mimics was opposite to that of pre-PRDX3 in U87 cells. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and western blot assays revealed that miR-383 was negatively associated with PRDX3 in U87 cells. miR-383 was indicated to interact with PRDX3, as demonstrated using a dual-luciferase assay. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that miR-383 induced cell apoptosis and mitochondrial ROS production by downregulating PRDX3 in U87 cells, thereby promoting oxidative stress-induced autophagy.

SP1-Mediated Upregulation of lncRNA LINC01614 Functions a ceRNA for miR-383 to Facilitate Glioma Progression Through Regulation of ADAM12

Background

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play an imperative role in tumorigenesis, but few lncRNAs have been functionally characterized in glioma. The aim of the present study was to identify the role of long non-coding RNA LINC01614 (LINC01614) in glioma development and explore the underlying mechanisms of LINC01614/miR-383/ADAM12 axis.

Patients and Methods

LncRNA expression in glioma specimens was measured by lncRNA microarray and qRT-PCR. The prognostic value of LINC01614 expression was statistically analyzed in 112 glioma patients. Loss-of-function experiments were conducted to investigate the biological functions of LINC01614 in vitro. Luciferase analyses, ChIP assays, and RNA pull-down were performed to determine the underlying LINC01614 mechanisms.

Results

We identified a novel glioma-related lncRNA LINC01614 by analyzing TCGA datasets. The distinct upregulation of LINC01614 was observed in both glioma specimens and cell lines using RT-PCR. We also observed that LINC01614 upregulation was induced by nuclear transcription factor SP1. Clinical assays revealed that high levels of LINC01614 were associated with KPS, WHO grade and shorter overall survival of glioma patients. Multivariate analysis further confirmed that LINC01614 was an independent prognostic marker for glioma patients. Besides, functional assays displayed that silence of LINC01614 knockdown distinctly inhibited cell growth, migration and invasion and promoted cell apoptosis in glioma cells. LINC01614 expression was enriched in the cytoplasm of glioma cells. Mechanistic investigation revealed that LINC01614 functioned as a competing endogenous RNA to upregulate a disintegrin and metalloproteinase 12 (ADAM12) by sponging miR-383.

Conclusion

Overall, these findings showed that SP1-induced upregulation of LINC01614 promoted glioma malignant progression via modulating the miR-383/ADAM12 axis, which may provide a promising therapy for glioma.

Alpha-lipoic acid inhibits proliferation and migration of human vascular endothelial cells through downregulating HSPA12B/VEGF signaling axis

Endothelial cells play essential roles in angiogenesis. Heat shock protein A12B (HSPA12B), a novel member of the multigene Hsp70 family, expresses specifically in endothelial cells. Alpha-lipoic acid (LA) has been used for the treatment of human diabetic complications for more than 20 years. However, little is known whether LA impacts endothelial proliferation and migration. To address these questions, primary human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were isolated and treated with LA. We found that LA reduced viable HUVECs but not caused LDH leakage and nuclear condensation, suggesting an inhibitory effect of LA on HUVEC proliferation. We also noticed that LA impeded wound closure of HUVEC monolayers. The expressions of C-Myc, VEGF, and eNOS and phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase were reduced by LA. Moreover, LA decreased the expression of heat shock protein A12B (HSPA12B). Notably, overexpression of HSPA12B in endothelial cells prevented the LA-induced loss of VEGF. More importantly, HSPA12B overexpression attenuated the LA-induced inhibition of endothelial proliferation and migration. Collectively, the results demonstrated that LA inhibited proliferative and migratory abilities in human vascular endothelial cells through the downregulation of the HSPA12B/VEGF signaling axis. The data suggest that besides the treatment in diabetic complications, LA might represent a viable therapeutic potential for human diseases that involve high angiogenic activities such as cancers.

LncRNA CCAT2 promotes angiogenesis in glioma through activation of VEGFA signalling by sponging miR-424

Glioma is characterized by high morbidity, high mortality and poor prognosis. Recent studies exhibited that lncRNA CCAT2 is overexpressed in glioma and promotes glioma progression, but the specific molecular biological mechanism remains to be determined. We performed qRT-PCR to evaluate the expression of related genes, Western blotting analysis to measure protein levels, colony formation assay to detect the proliferative ability of glioma cells, flow cytometry to measure cell apoptosis, bioinformatics analysis and dual luciferase assay to verify the binding sites and the targeted regulatory relationship in A172 and U251 cell lines and tube formation assay to determine endothelial angiogenesis. LncRNA CCAT2 and VEGFA were highly expressed, while miR-424 was expressed at low levels in NHA cells. Furthermore, knockdown of lncRNA CCAT2 decreased cell proliferation, increased cell apoptosis and inhibited endothelial angiogenesis in glioma. Moreover, lncRNA CCAT2 shared a complementary sequence with miR-424 which in turn directly bound to the 3'-UTR of VEGFA. Further investigation indicated that lncRNA CCAT2 promoted cell proliferation and endothelial angiogenesis by inducing the PI3K/AKT signalling pathway in glioma. The oncogenic lncRNA CCAT2 is highly associated with the development of glioma and exerts its function by upregulating VEGFA via miR-424.

HIF-1α (Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1α) Promotes Macrophage Necroptosis by Regulating miR-210 and miR-383

OBJECTIVE

Inflammatory activation changes the mitochondrial function of macrophages from oxidative phosphorylation to reactive oxygen species production, which may promote necrotic core formation in atherosclerotic lesions. In hypoxic and cancer cells, HIF-1α (hypoxia-inducible factor) promotes oxygen-independent energy production by microRNAs. Therefore, we studied the role of HIF-1α in the regulation of macrophage energy metabolism in the context of atherosclerosis. Approach and Results: Myeloid cell-specific deletion of Hif1a reduced atherosclerosis and necrotic core formation by limiting macrophage necroptosis in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice. In inflammatory bone marrow-derived macrophages, deletion of Hif1a increased oxidative phosphorylation, ATP levels, and the expression of genes encoding mitochondrial proteins and reduced reactive oxygen species production and necroptosis. microRNA expression profiling showed that HIF-1α upregulates miR-210 and downregulates miR-383 levels in lesional macrophages and inflammatory bone marrow-derived macrophages. In contrast to miR-210, which inhibited oxidative phosphorylation and enhanced mitochondrial reactive oxygen species production, miR-383 increased ATP levels and inhibited necroptosis. The effect of miR-210 was due to targeting 2,4-dienoyl-CoA reductase, which is essential in the β oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids. miR-383 affected the DNA damage repair pathway in bone marrow-derived macrophages by targeting poly(ADP-ribose)-glycohydrolase (Parg), which reduced energy consumption and increased cell survival. Blocking the targeting of Parg by miR-383 prevented the protective effect of Hif1a deletion in macrophages on atherosclerosis and necrotic core formation in mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings unveil a new mechanism by which activation of HIF-1α in inflammatory macrophages increases necroptosis through microRNA-mediated ATP depletion, thus increasing atherosclerosis by necrotic core formation.

Low Dose of Penfluridol Inhibits VEGF-Induced Angiogenesis

Metastasis is considered a major burden in cancer, being responsible for more than 90% of cancer-related deaths. Tumor angiogenesis is one of the main processes that lead to tumor metastasis. Penfluridol is a classic and commonly used antipsychotic drug, which has a great ability to cross the blood–brain barrier. Recent studies have revealed that penfluridol has significant anti-cancer activity in diverse tumors, such as metastatic breast cancer and glioblastoma. Here, we aim to identify the effect of low doses of penfluridol on tumor microenvironment and compare it with its effect on tumor cells. Although low concentration of penfluridol was not toxic for endothelial cells, it blocked angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. In vitro, penfluridol inhibited VEGF-induced primary endothelial cell migration and tube formation, and in vivo, it blocked VEGF- and FGF-induced angiogenesis in the matrigel plug assay. VEGF-induced VEGFR2 phosphorylation and the downstream p38 and ERK signaling pathways were not affected in endothelial cells, although VEGF-induced Src and Akt activation were abrogated by penfluridol treatment. When cancer cells were treated with the same low concentration of penfluridol, basal Src activation levels were mildly impaired, thus impacting their cell migration and wound healing efficiency. The potential of cancer-induced paracrine effect on endothelial cells was explored, although that did not seem to be a player for angiogenesis. Overall, our data demonstrates that low penfluridol levels, similar to the ones clinically used for anti-psychotic conditions, suppress angiogenic efficiency in the tumor microenvironment.

MicroRNA-200c affects bladder cancer angiogenesis by regulating the Akt2/mTOR/HIF-1 axis

Background

Bladder cancer is one of the most frequent urologic tumours in the world. MicroRNA-200c (miR-200c) has been considered a regulator of tumour angiogenesis. Akt2/mTOR was considered a regulator of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α). However, the mechanism by which miR-200c regulates bladder cancer angiogenesis remains unknown.

Methods

Western blotting and qRT-PCR were used to detect the expression of protein and mRNA, respectively. Cell proliferation, migration and invasion were detected using MTT, wound-healing and transwell assays, respectively. A dual luciferase reporter assay was used to identify the binding site between miR-200c and Akt2. A tube formation assay was also applied to detect the angiogenesis ability.

Results

Significantly higher expression levels of HIF-1α and VEGF and lower levels of miR-200c were observed in three types of bladder cancer cell lines. Transfection with the miR-200c mimic markedly inhibited cell viability, angiogenesis, and the expression of VEGF and HIF-1α. Overexpression of miR-200c remarkably suppressed the expression of Akt2, and the binding site between them was identified. Knockdown of Akt2 remarkably decreased the expression of VEGF and HIF-1α by regulating mTOR. miR-200c influenced the expression of VEGF and HIF-1α through the Akt2/mTOR signalling pathway and further regulated angiogenesis in bladder cancer cells.

Conclusions

We proved that miR-200c could suppress HIF-1α/VEGF expression in bladder cancer cells and inhibit angiogenesis, and these regulations were achieved by targeting Akt2/mTOR. This study may provide new insight into the prevention and treatment of bladder cancer.

miR-383 promotes cholangiocarcinoma cell proliferation, migration, and invasion through targeting IRF1

Interferon regulatory factor 1 (IRF1) has been found to serve as a tumor suppressor in cholangiocarcinoma, and enabled prediction of clinical progression and prognosis in our previous study. The objective of the current study is to screen and identify valuable microRNAs (miR), which target IRF1 to regulate cholangiocarcinoma cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. High expression of miR-383 was observed in cholangiocarcinoma tissues and cells. Meanwhile, we found the predicted binding site of miR-383 on the IRF1 3'-untranslated region (3'-UTR) according to the miR target database. The miR-383 expression was negatively related to IRF1 messeneger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression in cholangiocarcinoma tissue samples, and miR-383 negatively regulated IRF1 mRNA and protein expression in cholangiocarcinoma cells. Subsequently, we conducted a luciferase reporter assay to prove the predicted binding site miR-383 on IRF1 3'-UTR. Moreover, the results of the rescue study suggested that IRF1 was a functional target of miR-383 involved in regulating cholangiocarcinoma cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Finally, we evaluated the clinical and prognostic significance of miR-383 in cholangiocarcinoma cases, and found that high expression of miR-383 was correlated with advanced tumor stage, large tumor size, present vascular invasion, and metastasis, and acted as an unfavorable independent prognostic factor. In conclusion, miR-383 serves as a tumor-suppressive miR to regulate cholangiocarcinoma cell proliferation, migration, and invasion via directly targeting IRF1.

Endogenous Control Mechanisms of FAK and PYK2 and Their Relevance to Cancer Development

Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and its close paralogue, proline-rich tyrosine kinase 2 (PYK2), are key regulators of aggressive spreading and metastasis of cancer cells. While targeted small-molecule inhibitors of FAK and PYK2 have been found to have promising antitumor activity, their clinical long-term efficacy may be undermined by the strong capacity of cancer cells to evade anti-kinase drugs. In healthy cells, the expression and/or function of FAK and PYK2 is tightly controlled via modulation of gene expression, competing alternatively spliced forms, non-coding RNAs, and proteins that directly or indirectly affect kinase activation or protein stability. The molecular factors involved in this control are frequently deregulated in cancer cells. Here, we review the endogenous mechanisms controlling FAK and PYK2, and with particular focus on how these mechanisms could inspire or improve anticancer therapies.

Long non-coding RNA UBE2CP3 enhances HCC cell secretion of VEGFA and promotes angiogenesis by activating ERK1/2/HIF-1α/VEGFA signalling in hepatocellular carcinoma

Background

Angiogenesis is considered as an important process in the development of malignancies and is associated with cancer progression and metastasis. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary tumor of the liver and is recognized as a typical angiogenic tumor. Thus, it is of great importance to study the underlying mechanism of angiogenesis in HCC. The long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) ubiquitin conjugating enzyme E2C pseudogene 3 (UBE2CP3) has been reported as an oncogene that promotes tumor metastasis in HCC. However, the role and underlying mechanisms of UBE2CP3 in HCC angiogenesis are still unclear.

Methods

We measured the expression levels of UBE2CP3 by in situ hybridization (ISH) and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) in HCC patient samples. We also concomitantly used CD31/PAS double-staining to measure endothelial vessel (EV) density and used qRT-PCR to measure the CD31 mRNA level. HepG2 and SMMC-7721 cells were transfected with Lv-UBE2CP3 or Sh-UBE2CP3 virus to obtain stably over-expressing or knocking-down UBE2CP3 cell lines. The indirect effects of UBE2CP3 on ECs were studied by establishing a co-culture system using Transwell chambers with a 0.4-μm pore size. HCC cells and ECs in the co-culture system were separated, but the cytokines and growth factors were able to communicate with each other. Following exposed to HCC cells, ECs were collected for functional studies. Finally, we studied the function of UBE2CP3 in vivo by chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) angiogenesis assays and nude mouse tumorigenicity assays.

Results

In this study, we found that UBE2CP3 expression was higher in HCC tissues than in para-tumor tissues and was up-regulated in tissues with high EV density. Functionally, we found that in the co-culture systems, HCC cells overexpressing UBE2CP3 promoted HUVEC proliferation, migration and tube formation via the activation of ERK/HIF-1α/p70S6K/VEGFA signalling, increasing the level of VEGFA in HCC cell supernatant. In addition, the opposite results appeared when the expression of UBE2CP3 in HCC cells was knocked down. Consistent with these results, CAM angiogenesis assays and nude mouse tumorigenicity assays showed that UBE2CP3 expression up-regulated EV density in vivo.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that UBE2CP3 can enhance the interaction between HCC tumor cells and HUVECs and promote HCC tumorigenicity by facilitating angiogenesis.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13046-018-0727-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Downregulated MALAT1 relates to recurrent pregnancy loss via sponging miRNAs

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is three or more times of consecutive spontaneous loss of pregnancy. The underlying cause is complicated and the etiology of over 50% of RPL patients is unclear. Metastasis associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript-1 (MALAT-1), a multiple lncRNA functions as key regulators of diverse cellular processes. In this study, we found a reduced MALAT1 level in the villus samples of 36 RPL patients. Predicted by bioinformatics tool and confirmed by dual luciferase assay, we identified that MALAT1 directly interacts with miRNAs. Subsequent functional study in HTR-8/SVneo and HUVEC cells indicated that MALAT1 modulates the cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion via directly interact with miR-383, miR-15, miR-205 and miR-375. By modulating the VEGFA expression, MALAT1 controls the capillary formation of HUVEC cells. In conclusion, MALAT1 as a functional lncRNA controls cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion and modulates blood vessel formation. Down regulated MALAT1 induced disordered cross-talk between embryo and mother is one of the factor contributes to the pathogenesis of RPL.

The anti-inflammatory effect of microRNA-383-3p interacting with IL1R2 against homocysteine-induced endothelial injury in rat coronary arteries

MicroRNAs (miRs) are widely reported to be novel biomarkers involved in the process of coronary atherosclerosis (CAS). Hence, this study aims to explore the function of miR-383-3p targeting IL1R2 on inflammatory injury of coronary artery endothelial cells (CAECs) in CAS. The underlying regulatory mechanisms of miR-383-3p were analyzed in concert with the treatment of miR-383-3p mimics, miR-383-3p inhibitors, and the combination of miR-383-3p inhibitors and siRNA against IL1R2 in homocysteine (HCY)-induced CAECs. MTT, Hoechst 33258 staining, and tube formation assay were employed in order to measure cell viability, apoptosis, and tube formation, respectively. The levels of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, and IL-18 were determined by ELISA. IL1R2 was verified as the target gene of miR-383-3p by dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. MiR-383-3p was down-regulated in myocardial tissues of AS rats while IL1R2 was the reciprocal. The up-regulation of miR-383-3p decreased the levels of IL1R2, caspase-1, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-18 expressions, as well as cell apoptosis rate in the HCY-induced CAECs, while IL-10 expression, cell viability, and tube formation ability were increased. These results were contraindicated in the HCY-induced CAECs treated by miR-383-3p inhibitors. In conclusion, miR-383-3p mediating IL1R2 prevents HCY-induced apoptosis and inflammation injury in CAECs through the inhibition of the activation of inflammasome signaling pathway. These findings highly indicate that miR-383-3p may be beneficial in the prevention of CAS and other cardiovascular diseases.

microRNA-383 suppresses the PI3K-AKT-MTOR signaling pathway to inhibit development of cervical cancer via down-regulating PARP2

This study aims to evaluate the effect of the regulatory relationship between microRNA-383 (miR-383) and PARP2 in the cell migration and invasion in human with cervical cancer (CC) via the PI3K-AKT-MTOR signaling pathway. Cancerous tissues and corresponding paracancerous tissues were collected from 115 patients with CC. The positive expression rate of PARP2 was detected by immunohistochemistry. HeLa cells with highest miR-383 expression were selected and assigned into the blank, negative control (NC), miR-383 mimic, miR-383 inhibitor, si-PARP2, and miR-383 inhibitor + si-PARP2 groups. qRT-PCR and Western blot were performed to evaluate the expression of miR-383, PI3K, AKT, mTOR, PARP2, and p70S6K. MTT assay were utilized to measure cell viability. Transwell assay were applied to evaluate cell invasion and metastasis. Dual luciferase reporter assay identified that PARP2 is a target gene of miR-383. Cancerous tissues manifested higher expression of PI3K, AKT, mTOR, PARP2, and p70S6K but lower miR-383 expression than paracancerous tissues. Compared with the blank and NC groups, the miR-383 mimic and si-PARP2 groups had decreased expression of PI3K, AKT, mTOR, PARP2, and p70S6K mRNA and protein. In the miR-383 mimic and si-PARP2 groups, the cell viability, migration, and invasion were descended, in comparison to the blank and NC groups. All above parameters showed an opposite trend in the miR-383 inhibitor group when compared with the blank and NC groups. This study demonstrates that miR-383 could down-regulate PARP2 to protect against CC by inhibiting PI3K-AKT-MTOR signaling pathway.

MicroRNA-383 suppresses cell proliferation and invasion in colorectal cancer by directly targeting paired box 6

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third-most prevalent cancer and the fourth‑most common cause of cancer-associated fatality worldwide. The expression and biological roles of microRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) in tumourigenesis, and their regulatory function in a number of biological processes correlated with cancer have been investigated. miR‑383 has been reported to be deregulated in several human cancer types. However, the involvement and effects of miR‑383 on CRC progression and its underlying mechanism remain unknown. Therefore, the present study aimed to examine miR‑383 expression, investigate the biological functions of miR‑383 and identify its mechanism of action in CRC cells. In the present study, miR‑383 was significantly downregulated in CRC tissues and cell lines. Low miR‑383 expression was negatively associated with tumour size, lymph node metastasis and TNM stage. Function experiments demonstrated that miR‑383 upregulation inhibited the proliferation and invasion of CRC cells. Paired box 6 (PAX6) was confirmed as a direct target of miR‑383. PAX6 was upregulated in CRC tissues and was negatively correlated with miR‑383 expression. Induced PAX6 overexpression effectively rescued the tumour‑suppressing roles of miR‑383 on CRC cell proliferation and invasion. These findings suggested that miR‑383 may act as a tumour suppressor in CRC by directly targeting PAX6 and may serve as a promising therapeutic target for CRC treatment.

Nicorandil potentiates sodium butyrate induced preconditioning of neurons and enhances their survival upon subsequent treatment with H2O2

Background

Extensive loss of donor neural stem cell (NSCs) due to ischemic stress and low rate of differentiation at the site of cell graft are two of the major issues that hamper optimal outcome in NSCs transplantation studies. Given that histone deacetylases (HDACs) modulate various cellular processes by deacetylating histones and non-histone proteins, we hypothesized that combined treatment with small molecules, sodium butyrate (NaB; a known HDAC inhibitor) and nicorandil, will enhance the rate neuronal differentiation of NSCs besides their preconditioning to resist oxidative stress.

Methods

NSCs derived from 14-day old Sprague Dawley rat ganglion eminence were characterized for tri-lineage differentiation. Treatment with 1 mM NaB significantly changed their culture characteristics while continuous treatment for 10 days enhanced their neural differentiation. NaB treatment also preconditioned the cells for their resistance to oxidative stress.

Results

The highest rate of neural differentiation and preconditioning effect was achieved when the NSCs were treated concomitantly with NaB and nicorandil. Cell proliferation assay showed that concomitant treatment with NaB and nicorandil retarded their rate of proliferation.

Conclusion

These data conclude that preconditioning of NSCs with NaB and nicorandil effectively enhances their differentiation capacity besides preconditioning the cells to support their survival under ischemic conditions.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s40035-017-0097-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.