miR-150-5p and miR-133a suppress glioma cell proliferation and migration through targeting membrane-type-1 matrix metalloproteinase

Anticancer Mechanism of Astragalus Polysaccharide and Its Application in Cancer Immunotherapy

Astragalus polysaccharide (APS) derived from A. membranaceus plays a crucial role in traditional Chinese medicine. These polysaccharides have shown antitumor effects and are considered safe. Thus, they have become increasingly important in cancer immunotherapy. APS can limit the spread of cancer by influencing immune cells, promoting cell death, triggering cancer cell autophagy, and impacting the tumor microenvironment. When used in combination with other therapies, APS can enhance treatment outcomes and reduce toxicity and side effects. APS combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors, relay cellular immunotherapy, and cancer vaccines have broadened the application of cancer immunotherapy and enhanced treatment effectiveness. By summarizing the research on APS in cancer immunotherapy over the past two decades, this review elaborates on the anticancer mechanism of APS and its use in cancer immunotherapy and clinical trials. Considering the multiple roles of APS, this review emphasizes the importance of using APS as an adjunct to cancer immunotherapy and compares other polysaccharides with APS. This discussion provides insights into the specific mechanism of action of APS, reveals the molecular targets of APS for developing effective clinical strategies, and highlights the wide application of APS in clinical cancer therapy in the future.

Diverse activity of miR-150 in Tumor development: shedding light on the potential mechanisms

There is a growing interest to understand the role and mechanism of action of microRNAs (miRNAs) in cancer. The miRNAs are defined as short non-coding RNAs (18-22nt) that regulate fundamental cellular processes through mRNA targeting in multicellular organisms. The miR-150 is one of the miRNAs that have a crucial role during tumor cell progression and metastasis. Based on accumulated evidence, miR-150 acts as a double-edged sword in malignant cells, leading to either tumor-suppressive or oncogenic function. An overview of miR-150 function and interactions with regulatory and signaling pathways helps to elucidate these inconsistent effects in metastatic cells. Aberrant levels of miR-150 are detectable in metastatic cells that are closely related to cancer cell migration, invasion, and angiogenesis. The ability of miR-150 in regulating of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process, a critical stage in tumor cell migration and metastasis, has been highlighted. Depending on the cancer cells type and gene expression profile, levels of miR-150 and potential target genes in the fundamental cellular process can be different. Interaction between miR-150 and other non-coding RNAs, such as long non-coding RNAs and circular RNAs, can have a profound effect on the behavior of metastatic cells. MiR-150 plays a significant role in cancer metastasis and may be a potential therapeutic target for preventing or treating metastatic cancer.

Exosomes: Promising Delivery Tools for Overcoming Blood-Brain Barrier and Glioblastoma Therapy

Gliomas make up virtually 80% of all lethal primary brain tumors and are categorized based on their cell of origin. Glioblastoma is an astrocytic tumor that has an inferior prognosis despite the ongoing advances in treatment modalities. One of the main reasons for this shortcoming is the presence of the blood-brain barrier and blood-brain tumor barrier. Novel invasive and non-invasive drug delivery strategies for glioblastoma have been developed to overcome both the intact blood-brain barrier and leverage the disrupted nature of the blood-brain tumor barrier to target cancer cells after resection-the first treatment stage of glioblastoma. Exosomes are among non-invasive drug delivery methods and have emerged as a natural drug delivery vehicle with high biological barrier penetrability. There are various exosome isolation methods from different origins, and the intended use of the exosomes and starting materials defines the choice of isolation technique. In the present review, we have given an overview of the structure of the blood-brain barrier and its disruption in glioblastoma. This review provided a comprehensive insight into novel passive and active drug delivery techniques to overcome the blood-brain barrier, emphasizing exosomes as an excellent emerging drug, gene, and effective molecule delivery vehicle used in glioblastoma therapy.

LncRNA LINC01018/miR-942-5p/KNG1 axis regulates the malignant development of glioma in vitro and in vivo

AIMS

Since the inhibitory effect of KNG1 on glioma has been proved, this study further explores the regulation of the lncRNA/miRNA axis on KNG1 in glioma.

METHODS

The miRNAs that target KNG1 and the lncRNA that targets miR-942-5p were predicted by bioinformatics analysis and verified by experiments. The correlations between miR-942-5p and the survival of patients and between KNG1 and miR-942-5p were analyzed. After transfection, cell migration, invasion, proliferation, and cell cycle were detected through wound healing, Transwell, colony formation, and flow cytometry assays. A mouse subcutaneous xenotransplanted tumor model was established. The expressions of miR-942-5p, KNG1, LINC01018, and related genes were evaluated by quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), Western blot, or immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

MiR-942-5p targeted KNG1, and LINC01018 sponged miR-942-5p. The high survival rate of patients was related to low miR-942-5p level. MiR-942-5p was highly expressed, whereas KNG1 was lowly expressed in glioma. MiR-942-5p was negatively correlated with KNG1. Silent LINC01018 or KNG1 and miR-942-5p mimic enhanced the migration, invasion, and proliferation of glioma cells, and regulated the expressions of metastasis-related and proliferation-related genes. LINC01018 knockdown and miR-942-5p mimic promoted glioma tumor growth in mice. The levels of miR-942-5p and KNG1 were decreased by LINC01018 knockdown, and LINC01018 expression was suppressed by miR-942-5p mimic. MiR-942-5p inhibitor, KNG1, and LINC01018 had the opposite effect to miR-942-5p mimic.

CONCLUSION

LINC01018/miR-942-5p/KNG1 pathway regulates the development of glioma cells in vitro and in vivo.

ADAMTS9-AS1 Long Non‑coding RNA Sponges miR‑128 and miR-150 to Regulate Ras/MAPK Signaling Pathway in Glioma

Glioma is a malignancy of the central nervous system with a poor prognosis. Therefore, the elaboration of its molecular features creates therapeutic opportunities. Looking for the regulatory non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs and miRNAs) that are involved in glioma incidence/progression, RNA-seq analysis introduced upregulated ADAMTS9-AS1 as a bona fide candidate that sponges miR-128 and miR-150 and shows the negative correlation of expression with them. Then, RT-qPCR verified the upregulation of ADAMTS9-AS1 in glioma tissues and cell lines. Furthermore, dual-luciferase assay supported that cytoplasmic ADAMTS9-AS1 is capable of sponging miR-128 and miR-150, which are known as regulators of Ras/MAPK, PI3K, and Wnt pathways. Following the overexpression of ADAMTS9-AS1 in 1321N1 and U87 glioma cells, tyrosine kinase receptors (IGF1R and TrkC), as well as Wnt receptors (Lrp6 and Fzd) were upregulated, detected by RT-qPCR. Furthermore, downstream genes of both Ras/MAPK and Wnt pathways were upregulated. Finally following the ADAMTS9-AS1 overexpression, upregulation of Ras/MAPK and Wnt signaling pathways was verified through western blotting and Top/Fop flash assay, respectively. At the cellular level, ADAMTS9-AS1 overexpression brought about reduced sub-G1 cell population, increased proliferation rate, reduced apoptosis level, increased migration rate, shortened Bax/Bcl2 ratio, induced EMT, and stemness characteristics of transfected cells, detected by flow cytometry, MTT assay, scratch test, and RT-qPCR. Overall, these results introduced ADAMTS9-AS1 as an oncogene that upregulates Ras/MAPK and Wnt pathways through sponging of the miR-128 and miR-150 in glioma cells. The outcome of ADAMTS9-AS1 expression is more aggression of the glioma cells through increased EMT and stemness characteristics. These features candidate ADAMTS9-AS1 locus for glioma therapy. As a result, we discovered the oncogenic properties of ADAMTS9-AS1 in glioma cancer. It sponges miR-128 and miR-150 and subsequently overstimulates RAS/MAPK and Wnt signaling pathways, particularly at the receptors level. Thus, ADAMTS9-AS1 increases proliferation, migration, and stemness in glioma cell lines. A schematic representation showing the functional effect of ADAMTS9-AS1.

Ultrasound-targeted microbubble destruction (UTMD)-mediated miR-150-5p attenuates oxygen and glucose deprivation-induced cardiomyocyte injury by inhibiting TTC5 expression

BACKGROUND

Cardiomyocyte injury is a typical feature in cardiovascular diseases. Changes in cardiomyocytes strongly affect the progression of cardiovascular diseases. This work aimed to investigate the biological function and potential mechanism of action of miR-150-5p in cardiomyocytes.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A myocardial ischemia (MI) injury rat model was constructed to detect miR-150-5p and tetratricopeptide repeat domain 5 (TTC5) expression during heart ischemia injury. Primary cardiomyocytes were isolated for in vitro study. CCK-8 assays were used to detect cardiomyocyte viability. Western blots were used to detect TTC5 and P53 expression. qPCR was utilized to measure RNA expression of miR-150-5p and TTC5. The TUNEL assay was used to determine cell apoptosis. ELISA was used to determine cytokine (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8) levels in heart tissues and cell culture supernatants. A dual-luciferase reporter assay was carried out to verify the binding ability between miR-150-5p and TTC5. Oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) treatment significantly inhibited cell viability. Ultrasound-targeted microbubble destruction (UTMD)-mediated uptake of miR-150-5p inverted these results. Additionally, UTMD-mediated uptake of miR-150-5p retarded the effects of OGD treatment on cell apoptosis. Besides, UTMD-mediated uptake of miR-150-5p counteracted the effects of OGD treatment on the inflammatory response by regulating cytokine (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8) levels. For the mechanism of the protective effect on the heart, we predicted and confirmed that miR-150-5p bound to TTC5 and inhibited TTC5 expression.

CONCLUSIONS

UTMD-mediated uptake of miR-150-5p attenuated OGD-induced primary cardiomyocyte injury by inhibiting TTC5 expression. This discovery contributes toward further understanding the progression of primary cardiomyocyte injury.

MicroRNA 142-5p promotes tumor growth in oral squamous cell carcinoma via the PI3K/AKT pathway by regulating PTEN

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play an important role in carcinogenesis and cancer progression. The purpose of this study was to identify miRNAs associated with carcinoma function in OSCC and to investigate the potential role of the specific miRNAs. First, a comprehensive microarray analysis was performed, and miR-142-5p was identified as a candidate miRNA involved in OSCC. miR-142-5p has been reported to show high expression levels in cancer patients and to be involved in tumor growth and metastasis. However, the expression and function of miR-142-5p in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) are not fully characterized. We evaluated miR-142-5p expression in both OSCC-derived cell lines and primary OSCC tissues and performed functional analysis of miR-142-5p in OSCC-derived cell lines using mimics and inhibitors. miR-142-5p expression was up-regulated in OSCC tissues and OSCC cell lines. Overexpression of miR-142-5p significantly promoted the proliferation and invasion of OSCC cells. Bioinformatics analysis was performed using TargetScan to predict potential target sites that match the seed region of miR-142-5p. Phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromo-some 10 (PTEN) was identified as a potential target and selected for further analysis. PTEN expression levels were down-regulated and AKT expression levels were up-regulated in miR-142-5p-overexpressing cells. We have shown that miR-142-5p targets the PTEN gene and is involved in cancer progression. Our results suggest that miR-142-5p is involved in the progression of OSCC by controlling the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathway by targeting the PTEN gene. Our findings suggest that miR-142-5p may be a new target for the treatment of OSCC.

The Role of Exosomal miRNAs in Glioma: Biological Function and Clinical Application

Gliomas are complex and heterogeneous central nervous system tumors with poor prognosis. Despite the increasing development of aggressive combination therapies, the prognosis of glioma is generally unsatisfactory. Exosomal microRNA (miRNA) has been successfully used in other diseases as a reliable biomarker and even therapeutic target. Recent studies show that exosomal miRNA plays an important role in glioma occurrence, development, invasion, metastasis, and treatment resistance. However, the association of exosomal miRNA between glioma has not been systemically characterized. This will provide a theoretical basis for us to further explore the relationship between exosomal miRNAs and glioma and also has a positive clinical significance in the innovative diagnosis and treatment of glioma.

Joint application of biochemical markers and imaging techniques in the accurate and early detection of glioblastoma

Glioblastoma is a primary brain tumor with the most metastatic effect in adults. Despite the wide range of multidimensional treatments, tumor heterogeneity is one of the main causes of tumor spread and gives great complexity to diagnostic and therapeutic methods. Therefore, featuring noble noninvasive prognostic methods that are focused on glioblastoma heterogeneity is perceived as an urgent need. Imaging neuro-oncological biomarkers including MGMT (O⁶-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase) promoter methylation status, tumor grade along with other tumor characteristics and demographic features (e.g., age) are commonly referred to during diagnostic, therapeutic and prognostic processes. Therefore, the use of new noninvasive prognostic methods focused on glioblastoma heterogeneity is considered an urgent need. Some neuronal biomarkers, including the promoter methylation status of the promoter MGMT, the characteristics and grade of the tumor, along with the patient's demographics (such as age and sex) are involved in diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. Among the wide array of imaging techniques, magnetic resonance imaging combined with the more physiologically detailed technique of H-magnetic resonance spectroscopy can be useful in diagnosing neurological cancer patients. In addition, intracranial tumor qualitative analysis and sometimes tumor biopsies help in accurate diagnosis. This review summarizes the evidence for biochemical biomarkers being a reliable biomarker in the early detection and disease management in GBM. Moreover, we highlight the correlation between Imaging techniques and biochemical biomarkers and ask whether they can be combined.

The Role of N-myc Downstream-Regulated Gene Family in Glioma Based on Bioinformatics Analysis

Glioma is the most common type of primary tumor in the central nervous system, and the molecular mechanisms remain elusive. N-myc downstream-regulated gene (NDRG) family is reported to take part in the pathogenesis of various diseases, including some preliminary exploration in glioma. However, there has been no bioinformatics analysis of NDRG family in glioma yet. Herein, we focused on the expression changes of NDRGs with their value in predicting patients' prognoses, upstream regulatory mechanisms (DNA mutation, DNA methylation, transcription factors, and microRNA regulation) and gene enrichment analysis based on co-expressed genes with data from public databases. Furthermore, the expression pattern of NDRGs was verified by the paired glioma and peritumoral samples in our institute. It was suggested that NDRGs were differentially expressed genes in glioma. In particular, the lower expression of NDRG2 or NDRG4 could serve as a predictor of higher grade tumor and poorer prognosis. Also, NDRGs might play a crucial role in signal transduction, energy metabolism, and cross-talk among cells in glioma, under the control of a complex regulatory network. This study enables us to better understand the role of NDRGs in glioma and with further research, it may contribute to the development of glioma treatment.

miR-133a-5p suppresses gastric cancer through TCF4 down-regulation

Background

The effect of microRNAs (miRNA) on cancer regulations has received a considerable amount of attention recently. MiR-133a-5p has been identified as an anti-tumor miRNA in several types of cancers. However, the effect of miR-133a-5p on gastric cancer (GC) have not been uncovered. In this study, we sought to evaluate the regulation of TCF4 expression by miR-133-5p and the role of the miR-25-3p/TCF4 axis in the progression of GC, with the aim of identifying a potential therapeutic target for GC.

Methods

TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas), GTEx (The Genotype-Tissue Expression) and GEO (Gene Expression Omnibus) database were used to analyze the expression and prognosis. We performed MTT and EdU assays to elucidate the effect on cell replication. Apoptotic cells were stained with annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate and propidium iodide to stain, and then analyzed by flow cytometry. The effect on cell metastasis was investigated in wound healing and transwell assays. A dual-luciferase reporter assay was used to check for the direct targeting of TCF4 by miR-133a-5p. Bioinformatic analysis of the relationship of TCF4 with tumor microenvironment and the signaling cascade of TCF4 was finally performed.

Results

We found that the level of miR-133a-5p was decreased in both tumor tissues and GC cell lines. MiR-133a-5p inhibited cell growth and metastasis, but promoted cell apoptosis. MiR-133a-5p directly targeted TCF4 and downregulated its expression. TCF4 was highly expressed in tumor and higher level of TCF4 indicated poorer prognosis. Moreover, TCF4 overexpression reversed the aforementioned anti-tumor activity of miR-133a-5p. The expression level of TCF4 was significantly correlated with tumor-infiltrating immune cells.

Conclusions

Our findings altogether reveal that miR-133a-5p can serve as a tumor suppressor in gastric cancer via the miR-133a-5p/TCF4 pathway.

Non-coding RNAs modulate function of extracellular matrix proteins

The extracellular matrix (ECM) creates a multifaceted system for the interaction of diverse structural proteins, matricellular molecules, proteoglycans, hyaluronan, and various glycoproteins that collaborate and bind with each other to produce a bioactive polymer. Alterations in the composition and configuration of ECM elements influence the cellular phenotype, thus participating in the pathogenesis of several human disorders. Recent studies indicate the crucial roles of non-coding RNAs in the modulation of ECM. Several miRNAs such as miR-21, miR-26, miR-19, miR-140, miR-29, miR-30, miR-133 have been dysregulated in disorders that are associated with disruption or breakdown of the ECM. Moreover, expression of MALAT1, PVT1, SRA1, n379519, RMRP, PFL, TUG1, TM1P3, FAS-AS1, PART1, XIST, and expression of other lncRNAs is altered in disorders associated with the modification of ECM components. In the current review, we discuss the role of lncRNAs and miRNAs in the modification of ECM and their relevance with the pathophysiology of human disorders such as cardiac/ lung fibrosis, cardiomyopathy, heart failure, asthma, osteoarthritis, and cancers.

Emerging roles of MiR-133a in human cancers

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) can post-transcriptionally regulate the expression of cancer-relevant genes via binding to the 3'-untranslated region (3'-UTR) of the target mRNAs. MiR-133a, as a miRNA, participate in tumorigenesis, progression, autophagy and drug-resistance in various malignancies. Based on the recent insights, we discuss the functions of miR-133a in physiological and pathological processes and its potential effects on cancer diagnosis, prognosis and therapy.

The miRNA Content of Exosomes Released from the Glioma Microenvironment Can Affect Malignant Progression

Low-grade gliomas (LGG) are infiltrative primary brain tumors that in 70% of the cases undergo anaplastic transformation, deeply affecting prognosis. However, the timing of progression is heterogeneous. Recently, the tumor microenvironment (TME) has gained much attention either as prognostic factor or therapeutic target. Through the release of extracellular vesicles, the TME contributes to tumor progression by transferring bioactive molecules such as microRNA. The aim of the study was to take advantage of glioma-associated stem cells (GASC), an in vitro model of the glioma microenvironment endowed with a prognostic significance, and their released exosomes, to investigate the possible role of exosome miRNAs in favoring the anaplastic transformation of LGG. Therefore, by deep sequencing, we analyzed and compared the miRNA profile of GASC and exosomes obtained from LGG patients characterized by different prognosis. Results showed that exosomes presented a different signature, when compared to their cellular counterpart and that, although sharing several miRNAs, exosomes of patients with a bad prognosis, selectively expressed some miRNAs possibly responsible for the more aggressive phenotype. These findings get insights into the value of TME and exosomes as potential biomarkers for precision medicine approaches aimed at improving LGG prognostic stratification and therapeutic strategies.

Identification of an 8-miRNA signature as a potential prognostic biomarker for glioma

Background

Glioma is the most common form of primary malignant intracranial tumor.

Methods

In the current study, miRNA matrix were obtained from the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA), and then univariate Cox regression analysis and Lasso regression analysis were utilized to select candidate miRNAs and multivariate Cox regression analysis was applied to establish a miRNA signature for predicting overall survival (OS) of glioma. The signature was assessed with the area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) and validated by data from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO).

Results

Eight miRNAs (miR-1246, miR-148a, miR-150, miR-196a, miR-338-3p, miR-342-5p, miR-548h and miR-645) were included in the miRNA signature. The AUC of ROC analysis for 1- and 3-year OS in the CGGA dataset was 0.747 and 0.905, respectively. In the GEO dataset, The AUC for 1- and 3-year was 0.736 and 0.809, respectively. The AUC in both the CGGA and GEO datasets was similar to that based on WHO 2007 classification (0.736 and 0.799) and WHO 2016 classification (0.663 and 0.807). Additionally, Kaplan–Meier plot revealed that high-risk score patients had a poorer clinical outcome. Multivariate Cox regression analysis suggested that the miRNA signature was an independent prognosis-related factor [HR: 6.579, 95% CI [1.227−35.268], p = 0.028].

Conclusion

On the whole, in the present study, based on eight miRNAs, a novel prognostic signature was developed for predicting the 1- and 3- year survival rate in glioma. The results may be conducive to predict the precise prognosis of glioma and to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms. However, further experimental researches of miRNAs are needed to validate the findings of this study.

Astragaloside IV suppresses development of hepatocellular carcinoma by regulating miR-150-5p/β-catenin axis

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a common malignant tumor, has been regarded as a leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) was reported to participate in the regulation of multiple tumors. However, the role of AS-IV in HCC was still unclear in HCC. Bioinformatics analysis and function or mechanism experiments including RT-qPCR, MTT assay, flow cytometry, Western blot, luciferase reporter assay and xenografts assays were applied to investigate the function of AS-IV, miR-150-5p and CTNNB1. We discovered that AS-IV treatment was supposed to significantly increase miR-150-5p level. In addition, AS-IV accelerated cell apoptosis by inducing miR-150-5p in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, AS-IV increased cell apoptosis rate through reducing β-catenin level in vitro and in vivo. In detail, AS-IV triggered a decline of Bax and a rise of Bcl-2 in HCC cells and xenograft tissues. In mechanism, we validated the combination between miR-150-5p and CTNNB1. Moreover, miR-150-5p could negatively regulate CTNNB1 level by binding to its3'UTR. Finally, rescue assay demonstrated that CTNNB1 overexpression partially rescued the inhibitive effect on tumor growth and promotive influence on cell apoptosis caused by miR-150-5p amplification. The up-regulation of miR-150-5p induced by AS-IV suppressed the progression of HCC by repressing β-catenin, providing a new molecular target for the utilization of AS-IV In the treatment of HCC.

Downregulation of serum exosomal miR-150-5p is associated with poor prognosis in patients with colorectal cancer

Growing evidence have revealed the serum exosomal miRNAs emerged as biomarkers for various cancer types, including colorectal cancer (CRC). Here, we sought to explore the potential clinical significance of serum exosomal miR-150-5p in CRC. A total of 133 CRC patients and 60 healthy volunteers as control group were recruited in this study. Exosomes were isolated from the serum of all the participants. The total RNA was isolated from the exosomes and the serum exosomal miR-150-5p levels were measured by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. The findings showed that the serum exosomal miR-150-5p levels were significantly reduced in CRC cases compared with those in the control group. Serum exosomal miR-150-5p levels in post-operative blood samples were greatly upregulated one month after surgical treatment. In addition, decreased serum exosomal miR-150-5p expression was closely correlated with poorly differentiation, positive lymph node metastasis and advanced TNM stage. Moreover, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed serum exosomal miR-150-5p level had good performance to identify CRC cases from healthy volunteers, and a combination of serum exosomal miR-150-5p and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) could improve the diagnostic accuracy with an increased the area under the ROC curve (AUC) value. Furthermore, the survival time of patients with higher serum exosomal miR-150-5p expression was significantly longer than those with lower expression. Serum exosomal miR-150-5p was confirmed as an independent prognostic indicator in CRC. Mechanistically, ZEB1 was identified as a direct downstream target of miR-150-5p. Collectively, serum exosomal miR-150-5p might be a novel noninvasive biomarker for CRC diagnosis and prognosis.

miR-150-5p suppresses the stem cell-like characteristics of glioma cells by targeting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway

Glioma is the most common brain tumor malignancy with high mortality and poor prognosis. Emerging evidence suggests that cancer stem cells are the key culprit in the development of cancer. MicroRNAs have been reported to be dysregulated in many cancers, while the mechanism underlying miR-150-5p in glioma progression and proportion of stem cells is unclear. The expression levels of miR-150-5p and catenin beta 1 (CTNNB1, which encodes β-catenin) were measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blot. The expression levels of downstream genes of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and stem cell markers were detected by qRT-PCR. Tumorigenesis was investigated by cell viability, colony formation, and tumor growth in vitro and in vivo. The interaction between miR-150-5p and β-catenin was explored via bioinformatics analysis and luciferase activity assay. We found that miR-150-5p was downregulated in glioma and its overexpression inhibited cell proliferation, colony formation, and tumor growth. Moreover, miR-150-5p directly suppressed CTNNB1 and negatively regulated the abundances of downstream genes of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and stem cell markers. Furthermore, miR-150-5p expression was decreased and β-catenin level was enhanced in CD133+ glioma stem cells. Knockdown of miR-150-5p contributed to CD133- cells with stem cell-like phenotype, whereas overexpression of miR-150-5p suppressed CD133+ glioma stem cell-like characteristics. In conclusion, miR-150-5p inhibited the progression of glioma by controlling stem cell-like characteristics via regulating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, providing a novel target for glioma treatment.

lncRNA XIST promotes glioma proliferation and metastasis through miR-133a/SOX4

Glioma is the most common malignant brain tumour in adults, and the aetiology and mechanism of this tumour remain largely unknown. Previous studies have demonstrated that the long non-coding RNA X-inactive specific transcript (XIST) is upregulated in many cancers, and a high expression level of XIST is associated with poor clinical outcome. In the present study, the expression and function of XIST were investigated in the glioma cell line U251. XIST and microRNA (miR)-133a levels in glioma cell lines were detected by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Small hairpin RNA XIST (sh-XIST) and mimics/inhibitor of miR-133a were transfected in glioma cell lines and cell proliferation, invasion, migration and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) were examined. Luciferase assays were used to verify the associations among XIST, miR-133a and SRY-box (SOX)4. When XIST was knocked down, the proliferation, metastasis and EMT of glioma cells decreased. Notably, downstream genes of SOX4 were also upregulated or downregulated upon sh-XIST treatment. Overexpression of miR-133a inhibited glioma proliferation, metastasis and EMT via reducing the expression of SOX4; in contrast, knockdown of miR-133a exhibited the opposite effect, which revealed that miR-133a negatively regulates glioma progression. Furthermore, using luciferase assays, it was demonstrated that XIST and SOX4 could bind miR-133a in the predicted binding site; XIST competed with SOX4 for miR-133a binding. In conclusion, a XIST/miR-133a/SOX4 axis and a mechanism of XIST glioma in promoting cell proliferation and metastasis were revealed. These findings revealed that XIST has an oncogenic role in the tumourigenesis of glioma and may serve as a potential therapeutic target for glioma.

EV-associated miRNAs from pleural lavage as potential diagnostic biomarkers in lung cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men and women in the world, accounting for the 25% of cancer mortality. Early diagnosis is an unmet clinical issue. In this work, we focused to develop a novel approach to identify highly sensitive and specific biomarkers by investigating the use of extracellular vesicles (EVs) isolated from the pleural lavage, a proximal fluid in lung cancer patients, as a source of potential biomarkers. We isolated EVs by ultracentrifuge method from 25 control pleural fluids and 21 pleural lavages from lung cancer patients. Analysis of the expression of EV-associated miRNAs was performed using Taqman OpenArray technology through which we could detect 288 out of the 754 miRNAs that were contained in the OpenArray. The differential expression analysis yielded a list of 14 miRNAs that were significantly dysregulated (adj. p-value < 0.05 and logFC lower or higher than 3). Using Machine Learning approach we discovered the lung cancer diagnostic biomarkers; miRNA-1-3p, miRNA-144-5p and miRNA-150-5p were found to be the best by accuracy. Accordance with our finding, these miRNAs have been related to cancer processes in previous studies. This results opens the avenue to the use of EV-associated miRNA of pleural fluids and lavages as an untapped source of biomarkers, and specifically, identifies miRNA-1-3p, miRNA-144-5p and miRNA 150-5p as promising biomarkers of lung cancer diagnosis.

MicroRNAs Affect Complement Regulator Expression and Mitochondrial Activity to Modulate Cell Resistance to Complement-Dependent Cytotoxicity

MicroRNAs (miR) are small RNA molecules that shape the cell transcriptome and proteome through regulation of mRNA stability and translation. Here, we examined their function as determinants of cell resistance to complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC). To achieve this goal, we compared the expression of microRNAs between complement-resistant and -sensitive K562 leukemia, Raji lymphoma, and HCT-116 colorectal carcinoma cells. Global microRNA array analysis identified miR-150, miR-328, and miR-616 as regulators of CDC resistance. Inhibition of miR-150 reduced resistance, whereas inhibition of miR-328 or miR-616 enhanced cell resistance. Treatment of K562 cells with a sublytic dose of complement was shown to rapidly increase miR-150, miR-328, and miR-616 expression. Protein targets of these microRNAs were analyzed in K562 cells by mass spectrometry-based proteomics. Expression of the complement membrane regulatory proteins CD46 and CD59 was significantly enhanced after inhibition of miR-328 and miR-616. Enrichment of proteins of mitochondria, known target organelles in CDC, was observed after miR-150, miR-328, and miR-616 inhibition. In conclusion, miR-150, miR-328, and miR-616 regulate cell resistance to CDC by modifying the expression of the membrane complement regulators CD46 and CD59 and the response of the mitochondria to complement lytic attack. These microRNAs may be considered targets for intervention in complement-associated diseases and in anticancer, complement-based therapy.

LncRNA MALAT1 promotes osteoarthritis by modulating miR-150-5p/AKT3 axis

BACKGROUND

Many studies have reported that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) could act as sponges for microRNAs (miRNAs) and play important roles in the regulation of osteoarthritis (OA). Yet, the underlying mechanisms of lncRNA metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) in OA are still unclear. Therefore, we aimed to explore the regulation mechanisms of MALAT1 in OA procession.

METHODS

IL-1β treatment in chondrocyte was used to mimic OA in vitro. MALAT1, miR-150-5p and AKT3 expression levels were detected via qRT-PCR. The protein levels of AKT3, MMP-13, ADAMTS-5, Bax, Bcl-2, cleaved-PARP, collagen II and aggracan were measured by western blot. MTT assay was performed to detect cell proliferation ability. The apoptosis of chondrocytes was determined using flow cytometry and western blot. Luciferase assay and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays were used to confirm the relationship among MALAT1, miR-150-5p and AKT3.

RESULTS

In our study, MALAT1 and AKT3 were upregulated while miR-150-5p was downregulated in OA in vitro and vivo. The level of miR-150-5p was negatively correlated with that of MALAT1 or AKT3. More importantly, overexpression of MALAT1 promoted the expression of AKT3 by negatively regulating miR-150-5p. MALAT1 knockdown inhibited cell proliferation, promoted apoptosis, increased MMP-13, ADAMTS-5 expression and decreased collagen II, aggracan expression in IL-1β treated chondrocytes. MALAT1 upregulation or AKT3 overexpression enhanced proliferation, inhibited apoptosis and extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation, which was undermined by overexpression of miR-150-5p. By contrast, miR-150-5p depletion rescued the effect of MALAT1 downregulation or loss of AKT3 on IL-1β-stimulated chondrocytes.

CONCLUSION

MALAT1 was responsible for cell proliferation, apoptosis, and ECM degradation via miR-150-5p/AKT3 axis.

Long non‑coding RNA DLEU1 promotes cell proliferation of glioblastoma multiforme

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common malignant tumor with high morbidity and mortality. This study investigated the role of long non‑coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in glioblastomagenesis progression. Using the GSE2223 and GSE59612 datasets, and RNA sequencing data of GBM from The Cancer Genome Atlas, differentially expressed (DE) genes including DE messenger RNAs (DEmRNAs) and DElncRNAs between GBM and normal controls were identified. Based on the competing endogenous RNA hypothesis, DElncRNA‑micro RNA (miRNA)‑DEmRNA interactions were obtained by target gene prediction. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Gene and Genomes pathway analysis of DEmRNAs in the DElncRNA‑miRNA‑DEmRNA network was performed. Expression and function analyses of DElncRNAs were performed by reverse transcription‑polymerase chain reaction (RT‑PCR) and an established viability assay, respectively. In total, 712 DE genes were identified. Significant upregulation of lncRNA deleted in lymphocytic leukemia 1 (DLEU1) was revealed in GBM and a number of other types of cancer. DLEU1 interacted with 315 miRNAs and 105 DEmRNAs. The DEmRNAs were mainly enriched in tumorigenesis‑associated GO terms (angiogenesis, positive regulation of cell proliferation, positive regulation of fibroblast apoptotic processes and regulation of neutrophil migration) and pathways (Hippo signaling pathway, cancer pathways, and Wnt signaling pathway). Correlation analysis revealed that mRNA TNF receptor associated factor 4 (TRAF4) was associated with DLEU1 expression. RT‑PCR demonstrated that the expression levels of DLEU1 and TRAF4 were increased in GBM tissues. Small interfering RNA demonstrated that silencing DLEU1 downregulated TRAF4. The viability of GBM cells was significantly decreased following RNA interference with DLEU1 and TRAF4 production. The results demonstrate that DLEU1 and TRAF4 is highly expressed in GBM tissues and promotes proliferation of GBM cells. It may act as a competing endogenous RNA and influence tumorigenesis of GBM.

MiR-150-5p regulates melanoma proliferation, invasion and metastasis via SIX1-mediated Warburg Effect

Aerobic glycolysis is a hallmark of cancer. Sine oculis homeobox 1 (SIX1), a key transcription factor in terms of regulating aerobic glycolysis (the Warburg Effect), plays a critical role in tumorigenesis of various cancer types, including breast cancer, liver cancer, and lung cancer. However, the upstream regulating mechanisms of SIX1 in melanoma remain to be determined. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as key regulators in tumorigenesis and progression. Here, we initially showed that microRNA-150-5p (miR-150-5p) inhibits SIX1 expression by directly targeting its 3'-UTR in melanoma cells. miR-150-5p suppressed melanoma cell proliferation, migration, and invasion through inhibition of SIX1. Mechanistically, miR-150-5p dampens glycolysis by decreasing the glucose uptake, lactate production, ATP generation, and extracellular acidification rate (ECAR), and increasing oxygen consumption rate (OCR) by targeting SIX1. Importantly, glycolysis regulated by miR-150-5p/SIX1 axis is critical for its regulation of melanoma growth and metastasis both in vitro and in vivo. Collectively, our study demonstrates the importance of miR-150-5p/SIX1 axis in melanoma, which could be a promising therapeutic target in melanoma.

High-throughput sequencing reveals microRNAs in response to heat stress in the head kidney of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

Recently, the research of animal microRNAs (miRNAs) has attracted wide attention for its regulatory effect in the development process and the response to abiotic stresses. Rainbow trout is a commercially and cold water fish species, and usually encounters heat stress, which affects its growth and leads to a huge economic loss. But there were few investigations about the roles of miRNAs in heat stress in rainbow trout. In this study, miRNAs of rainbow trout which were involved in heat stress were identified by high-throughput sequencing of six small RNA libraries from head kidney tissues under control (18 °C) and heat-treated (24 °C) conditions. A total of 392 conserved miRNAs and 989 novel miRNAs were identified, of which 78 miRNAs were expressed in different response to heat stress. Ten of these miRNAs were further validated by quantitative real-time PCR. In addition to, including 393 negative correlation miRNA-target gene pairs, several important regulatory pathways were involved in heat stress of the potential target genes, including protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum, NOD-like receptor signaling pathway, and phagosome. Our data significantly advance understanding of heat stress regulatory mechanism of miRNA in the head kidney of rainbow trout, which provide a useful resource for the cultivation of rainbow trout.

First Trimester Circulating MicroRNA Biomarkers Predictive of Subsequent Preterm Delivery and Cervical Shortening

Preterm birth (PTB) is the leading cause of infant death and disability worldwide. The onset of preterm uterine contractions is preceded by asymptomatic cervical remodelling and ripening, which can be seen on trans-vaginal ultrasound as cervical shortening. This study aimed to identify plasma miRNA biomarkers that predict preterm birth and/or cervical shortening. We collected serial plasma samples from pregnant women prospectively from 12 to 22 weeks gestation. The nCounter miRNA assay was used to identify differentially expressed miRNAs associated with spontaneous PTB and/or cervical shortening (n = 16 term no short, n = 13 preterm, n = 24 short). Predictive values of the miRNA biomarkers were confirmed in an independent validation cohort consisting of 96 women who delivered at term, 14 preterm and 21 early cervical shortening at <20 weeks gestation. Nine miRNAs (hsa-let-7a-5p, hsa-miR-374a-5p, hsa-miR-15b-5p, hsa-miR-19b-3p, hsa-miR-23a-3p, hsa-miR-93-5p, hsa-miR-150-5p, hsa-miR-185-5p and hsa-miR-191-5p) were differentially expressed (P < 0.001) in women subsequently experiencing PTB or cervical shortening. Hsa-miR-150-5p had the strongest ability to predict PTB (AUC = 0.8725) and cervical shortening (AUC = 0.8514). Plasma miRNAs in the first trimester can predict PTB and cervical shortening in women at risk of preterm delivery. This is a key period in pregnancy when early identification of PTB risk allows time to deliver outcome-modifying interventions.

Upregulation of miR150-5p in generalized myasthenia gravis patients is associated with decreased serum levels of IL-17 and increased serum levels of IL-10

BACKGROUND

MiR150-5p has been reported to be involved in generalized myasthenia gravis, in which different cytokines play critical roles. The regulatory network of cytokines in generalized myasthenia gravis has not been fully elucidated. Our study aimed to investigate the interactions between miR150-5p and different cytokines in generalized myasthenia gravis.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

Serum levels of miR150-5p and different cytokines including IL-2, IL-17, IL-10, IL-19, IL-20 and IL-35 were detected by qRT-PCR and ELISA, respectively. ROC curve analysis was performed to evaluate the diagnostic value of miR150-5p for generalized myasthenia gravis. Correlation between serum levels of miR150-5p and different cytokines were analyzed by Pearson correlation coefficient.

RESULTS

Compared with healthy controls, decreased serum levels of IL-2 and IL-17 and increased serum levels of miR150-5p, IL-10, IL-19, IL-20 and IL-35 were observed in patients with generalized myasthenia gravis. Serum levels of miR150-5p were positively correlated with IL-10 and negatively correlated with IL-17. After treatments, serum levels of miR150-5p and IL-10 decreased, while serum levels of IL-2 and IL-17 increased.

CONCLUSION

Upregulation of miR150-5p is involved in generalized myasthenia gravis patients and is associated with decreased serum levels of IL-17 as well as increased serum levels of IL-10.

Astragalus polysaccharides decrease proliferation, migration, and invasion but increase apoptosis of human osteosarcoma cells by up-regulation of microRNA-133a

Osteosarcoma (OS) has a high incidence, malignity, and frequency of recurrence and metastasis. In this study, we aimed to explore the potential anti-cancer effects of Astragalus polysaccharides (APS) on human OS MG63 cells as well as underlying mechanisms. Viability of MG63 cells was assessed by CCK-8 assay to determine the adequate concentration of APS. Then, effects of APS on MG63 cell proliferation, cell cycle distribution, apoptosis, and migration and invasion were analyzed by BrdU incorporation, PI staining, flow cytometry, and transwell assays, respectively. The expression levels of proteins involved in these physiological processes were assessed by western blot analysis. Afterwards, miR-133a level in APS-treated cells was determined by qRT-PCR, and whether APS affected MG63 cells through regulation of miR-133a was determined. Finally, the activation of c-Jun N-terminal protein kinase (JNK) pathway was detected. We found that APS treatment suppressed the viability, proliferation, migration, and invasion of MG63 cells, as well as induced cell apoptosis. Moreover, APS enhanced the expression of miR-133a in MG63 cells. Knockdown of miR-133a reversed the APS treatment-induced MG63 cell proliferation, migration and invasion inhibition, as well as cell apoptosis. Furthermore, APS inactivated JNK pathway in MG63 cells. Knockdown of miR-133a reversed the APS treatment-induced inactivation of JNK pathway in MG63 cells. To conclude, APS repressed proliferation, migration, and invasion while induced apoptosis of OS MG63 cells by up-regulating miR-133a and then inactivating JNK pathway.

Expression of microRNA-150 and its Target Gene IGF2BP1 in Human Osteosarcoma and their Clinical Implications

Previous study revealed that microRNA (miR)-150 might function as a tumor suppressor in osteosarcoma partially by targeting Insulin-Like Growth Factor 2 mRNA-Binding Protein 1 (IGF2BP1). The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical significance of miR-150-IGF2BP1 axis in human osteosarcoma which remains unclear. At first, expression levels of miR-150, and IGF2BP1 mRNA and protein in 20 osteosarcoma and matched adjacent noncancerous tissues were respectively detected by quantitative real-time PCR and western blot analyses. Then, subcellular localization and expression pattern of IGF2BP1 protein in 100 osteosarcoma tissues were examined by immunohistochemistry. Associations of miR-150/IGF2BP1 expression with various clinicopathological features and patients’ prognosis were also statistically evaluated. As a result, miR-150 expression was significantly decreased, while IGF2BP1 mRNA and protein expression were dramatically increased in osteosarcoma tissues compared to matched adjacent noncancerous tissues (all P < 0.001). Immunostaining of IGF2BP1 protein was localized in cytoplasm of tumor cells in osteosarcoma tissues. Statistically, low miR-150 expression and/or high IGF2BP1 protein immunoreactive score were all significantly associated with high tumor grade, presence of metastasis and recurrence, as well as poor response to chemotherapy (all P < 0.05). Moreover, miR-150, IGF2BP1 and combined miR-150/IGF2BP1 expressions were all identified as independent prognostic factors for overall and disease-free survivals of osteosarcoma patients (all P < 0.05). In conclusion, our data suggest that miR-150 and its downstream target IGF2BP1 may be a crucial axis for the development, progression and patients’ prognosis of ostesarcoma. The newly identified miR-150/IGF2BP1 axis might be a novel potential therapeutic target for osteosarcoma treatment.

MicroRNA-133a inhibits gastric cancer cells growth, migration, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition process by targeting presenilin 1

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common malignancies and a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Accumulating evidence reported that microRNA (miR)-133a was involved in GC. This study aimed to investigate the function and mechanism of miR-133a in the development and progression of GC. The expression of miR-133a and presenilin 1 (PSEN1) in two GC cell lines, SGC-7901 and BGC-823, were inhibited and overexpressed by transient transfections. Thereafter, cell viability, migration, and apoptosis were measured by trypan blue exclusion assay, transwell migration assay, and flow cytometry assay, respectively. Dual-luciferase reporter assay was conducted to verify whether PSEN1 was a direct target of miR-133a. Furthermore, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis were mainly performed to assess the expression changes of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-associated proteins, apoptosis-related proteins, and Notch pathway proteins. MiR-133a inhibitor significantly increased cell viability and migration, while miR-133a mimic decreased cell viability, migration, and induced apoptosis. miR-133a suppression accelerated transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-induce EMT, as evidenced by upregulation of E-cadherin, and downregulation of N-cadherin, vimentin, and Slug. Of contrast, miR-133a overexpression blocked TGF-β1-induce EMT by altering these factors. PSEN1 was a direct target of miR-133a, and suppression of PSEN1 abolished the promoting functions of miR-133 suppression on cell growth and metastasis. Moreover, PSEN1 inhibition decreased Notch 1, Notch 2, and Notch 3 protein expressions. This study demonstrates an antigrowth and antimetastasis role of miR-133a in GC cells. Additionally, miR-133a acts as a tumor suppressor may be via targeting PSEN1.

Dysregulation of miR-126/Crk protein axis predicts poor prognosis in gastric cancer patients

BACKGROUND

miR-126 functions as a tumor suppressor in gastric cancer (GC) by negatively regulating Crk protein expression post-transcriptionally.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the associations of miR-126 and Crk protein expression levels, alone or in combination, with the clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of GC patients.

METHODS

The expression levels of miR-126 and Crk protein in 338 GC patients were analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry, respectively. The relationship of miR-126 and Crk protein expression with clinicopathologic characteristics and clinical outcome was evaluated.

RESULTS

Compared with matched adjacent non-tumor tissues, miR-126 was significantly down-regulated while Crk protein was significantly up-regulated in tumor tissues. A reduced miR-126 expression and an elevated Crk protein expression, alone or in combination, statistically correlated with aggressive clinicopathological characteristics, such as larger tumor size, deeper local invasion, more lymph node metastasis, advanced TNM stage, and poorer prognosis. Multivariate analysis showed that combined miR-126-low/Crk protein-high expression was an independent unfavorable prognostic factor of GC.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate for the first time that miR-126 down-regulation and Crk protein up-regulation may be synergistically associated with tumor progression in GC and may predict unfavorable prognosis of GC.

Paraptosis in human glioblastoma cell line induced by curcumin

Curcumin is a polyphenol compound extracted from Curcuma longa plant, is a molecule with pleiotropic effects that suppresses transformation, proliferation and metastasis of malignant tumors. Curcumin can cause different kinds of cell death depending of its concentration on the exposed cell type. Here we show that exposure of the glioblastoma cell line A172 to curcumin at 50 μM, the IC50, causes morphological change characteristic of paraptosis cell-death. Vesicles derived from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and low membrane potential of the mitochondria were constantly found in the exposed cells. Furthermore, changes in expression of the ER Stress Response (ERSR) genes IRE1 and ATF6, and the microRNAs (miRNAs) miR-27a, miR-222, miR-449 was observed after exposure to curcumin. AKT-Insulin and p53-BCL2 networks were predicted being modulated by the affected miRNAs. Furthermore, AKT protein levels reduction was confirmed. Our data, strongly suggest that curcumin exerts its cell-death properties by affecting the integrity of the reticulum, leading to paraptosis in the glioblastoma cells. These data unveils the versatility of curcumin to control cancer progression.

miR-150 Suppresses Tumor Growth in Melanoma Through Downregulation of MYB

miR-150 has been demonstrated to inhibit tumor progression in various human cancers, including colorectal cancer, ovarian cancer, and thyroid cancer. However, the role of miR-150 in melanoma remains to be determined. In this study, we found that miR-150 was underexpressed in melanoma tissues and cell lines. Through transfection of miR-150 mimics, we found that miR-150 significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of melanoma cells. In mechanism, we found that MYB was a target of miR-150 in melanoma cells. Overexpression of miR-150 significantly inhibited mRNA and protein levels of MYB in melanoma cells. Moreover, there was an inverse correlation between the expression of miR-150 and MYB in melanoma tissues. We also showed that MYB was upregulated in melanoma tissues and cell lines. Through functional experiments, we found that restoration of MYB in miR-150-overexpressed melanoma cells rescued the proliferation, migration, and invasion. Therefore, our findings demonstrated that miR-150 suppressed the proliferation, migration, and invasion of melanoma cell by downregulating MYB.

Up-regulation of miR-20a by HPV16 E6 exerts growth-promoting effects by targeting PDCD6 in cervical carcinoma cells

OBJECTIVE

MicroRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) have been reported to participate in progression of multiple tumors including cervical cancer. High-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) type 16 (HPV16) is the most common and lethal HPV type, leading to exceeding 50% of cervical cancer cases. However, the relationship between miRNA and HPV-induced cervical carcinogenesis remains elusive.

RESULTS

Here, HPV16 E6 positively regulated miR-20a expression. Overexpression of miR-20a showed growth-promoting effects on C33A cells (HPV16-negative), and knockdown of miR-20a showed growth-inhibitory effects on CaSki cells (HPV16-positive). In addition, PDCD6 was identified as a target gene of miR-20a. Overexpression of PDCD6 exerted growth-inhibitory effects (opposite to miR-20a overexpression), which could be reversed by miR-20a overexpression. More importantly, activation of AKT and p38 was observed in C33A cells overexpressing miR-20a, and the growth-promoting action of miR-20a could be abated by p38 inhibition.

CONCLUSION

Up-regulation of miR-20a by HPV16 E6 exerted growth-promoting effects by targeting PDCD6 in cervical carcinoma cells. This study demonstrated miR-20a might be a potential therapeutic target in HPV16 E6 infection type of cervical cancer.

Identification of microRNAs associated with glioma diagnosis and prognosis

The sensitivity and specificity of microRNAs (miRNAs) for diagnosing glioma are controversial. We therefore performed a meta-analysis to systematically identify glioma-associated miRNAs. We initially screened five miRNA microarray datasets to evaluate the differential expression of miRNAs between glioma and normal tissues. We next compared the expression of the miRNAs in different organs and tissues to assess the sensitivity and specificity of the differentially expressed miRNAs in the diagnosis of glioma. Finally, pathway analysis was performed using GeneGO. We identified 27 candidate miRNAs associated with glioma initiation, progression, and patient prognosis. Sensitivity and specificity analysis indicated miR-15a, miR-16, miR-21, miR-23a, and miR-9 were up-regulated, while miR-124 was down-regulated in glioma. Ten signaling pathways showed the strongest association with glioma development and progression: the p53 pathway feedback loops 2, Interleukin signaling pathway, Toll receptor signaling pathway, Parkinson's disease, Notch signaling pathway, Cadherin signaling pathway, Apoptosis signaling pathway, VEGF signaling pathway, Alzheimer disease-amyloid secretase pathway, and the FGF signaling pathway. Our results indicate that the integration of miRNA, gene, and protein expression data can yield valuable biomarkers for glioma diagnosis and treatment. Indeed, six of the miRNAs identified in this study may be useful diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in glioma.

WW domain-binding protein 2 acts as an oncogene by modulating the activity of the glycolytic enzyme ENO1 in glioma

WW domain-binding protein 2 (WBP2) has been demonstrated as oncogenic in breast cancer. Many studies have revealed the WBP2 gene as a high-risk gene for leukoariaosis and cerebral white matter lesions is important in the pathologic stage of glioma development. This study aimed to illustrate the underlying mechanism by which WBP2 regulates the process of glioma development. The expression pattern of WBP2 in several tumor cells was determined, clarifying the carcinogenic action of WBP2 in glioma cells. Overexpression of WBP2 in glioma cells promoted cell proliferation and migration, and the number of S-phase cells, whereas the depletion of WBP2 by RNAi-mediated knockdown restrained cell growth and cell cycle progression. Upregulation of WBP2 significantly enhanced the tumorigenic ability of U251 cells in vivo. MS/GST pulldown assay identified α-enolase (ENO1) and Homer protein homolog 3 (Homer3) as novel potent interaction partners of WBP2. Knockdown of ENO1 or Homer3 allowed cell growth and migration to return to normal levels. Furthermore, in vitro and in vivo experiments indicated that the oncogenic role of WBP2 in glioma was through modulating ENO1 and glycolysis activity via the ENO1-PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Collectively, these results reveal that WBP2 plays a vital role in the occurrence and development of glioma, indicating a target gene for glioblastoma treatment.

MicroRNA Contents in Matrix Vesicles Produced by Growth Plate Chondrocytes are Cell Maturation Dependent

Chondrocytes at different maturation states in the growth plate produce matrix vesicles (MVs), membrane organelles found in the extracellular matrix, with a wide range of contents, such as matrix processing enzymes and receptors for hormones. We have shown that MVs harvested from growth zone (GC) chondrocyte cultures contain abundant small RNAs, including miRNAs. Here, we determined whether RNA also exists in MVs produced by less mature resting zone (RC) chondrocytes and, if so, whether it differs from the RNA in MVs produced by GC cells. Our results showed that RNA, small RNA specifically, was present in RC-MVs, and it was well-protected from RNase by the phospholipid membrane. A group of miRNAs was enriched in RC-MVs compared RC-cells, suggesting that miRNAs are selectively packaged into MVs. High throughput array and RNA sequencing showed that ~39% miRNAs were differentially expressed between RC-MVs and GC-MVs. Individual RT-qPCR also confirmed that miR-122-5p and miR-150-5p were expressed at significantly higher levels in RC-MVs compared to GC-MVs. This study showed that growth plate chondrocytes at different differentiation stages produce different MVs with different miRNA contents, further supporting extracellular vesicle miRNAs play a role as “matrisomes” that mediate the cell–cell communication in cartilage and bone development.

MicroRNA-205-5p suppresses the invasiveness of oral squamous cell carcinoma by inhibiting TIMP‑2 expression

MicroRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) play important roles in carcinogenesis. The miRNA, miR-205-5p, has been reported to suppress the growth of various types of tumor; however, its functional contribution to oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is not yet clear. Thus, this study was conducted to determine the miRNA expression signatures in OSCC and to investigate the functional role of miR‑205‑5p in OSCC cells. We measured miR‑205‑5p expression by RT-qPCR, and examined the function of miR‑205‑5p by transfecting a miR‑205‑5p mimic or inhibitor into OSCC cells and measuring cell proliferation, migration and invasiveness. Genes targeted by miR‑205‑5p were identified using the TargetScan database and verified by western blot analysis, luciferase reporter assay and ELISA. We found that miR‑205‑5p was significantly downregulated in OSCC cell lines and tissue specimens. Following transfection of miR‑205‑5p mimic or inhibitor into the cancer cell lines, miR‑205‑5p overexpression significantly suppressed cancer cell migration and invasion. We further demonstrated that miR‑205‑5p directly targeted and regulated the tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases‑2 (TIMP‑2) gene. The silencing of TIMP‑2 suppressed cancer cell invasion and the activation of pro‑matrix metalloproteinase‑2 (pro‑MMP‑2). These results suggest that TIMP‑2 promotes tumor progression, and that miR‑205‑5p directly regulates TIMP‑2, thereby suppressing pro‑MMP‑2 activation and inhibiting OSCC cell invasiveness. Our data describing the pathways regulated by miR‑205‑5p provide new insight into the mechanisms responsible for OSCC development and metastasis.

RETRACTED: The in vitro and in vivo effects of microRNA-133a on intervertebral disc destruction by targeting MMP9 in spinal tuberculosis

This article has been retracted: please see Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal (http://www.elsevier.com/locate/withdrawalpolicy). This article has been retracted at the request of the Editor-in-Chief. Concern was raised about the reliability of the Western blot results in Figure 4 A+C, which appear to have a similar phenotype as seen in many other publications, as detailed here: https://pubpeer.com/publications/0D0667F09124C7911264C51064AF20; and here: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1r0MyIYpagBc58BRF9c3luWNlCX8VUvUuPyYYXzxWvgY/edit#gid=262337249. The journal requested that the corresponding author comment on these concerns and provide the raw data. The authors did not respond to this request and therefore the Editor-in-Chief decided to retract the article.

Stable expression of α1-antitrypsin Portland in MDA-MB-231 cells increased MT1-MMP and MMP-9 levels, but reduced tumour progression

The membrane bound matrix metalloproteinase MT1-MMP plays roles in modulating cell movement, independent of its abilities to remodel the extracellular matrix. Unlike many MMPs, MT1-MMP is activated in the Golgi prior to secretion by a pro-protein convertase, primarily furin. Regulation of the activation of pro-MT1-MMP has been methodically investigated, as altering the level of the active protein has broad implications in both activating other pro-MMPs, including pro-MMP-2, and many subsequent remodelling events. Our previous work in MCF-7 cells has demonstrated that modest, and not extremely high, levels of active MT1-MMP manifests into altered cell morphology and movement. At this low but optimal amount of MT1-MMP protein, changes to MT1-MMP levels are always mirrored by MMP-9 and pERK levels, and always opposite to MMP-2 levels. In this study, stable expression of the furin inhibitor α1-antitrypsin Portland (α1-PDX) in MDA-MB-231 cells increased overall MT1-MMP levels, but cells maintained a 21% proportion of pro-MT1-MMP. The increase in MT1-MMP was mirrored by increases in MMP-9 and pERK, but a decrease in MMP-2. These changes were associated with increased NF-κB transcription. In vitro analysis showed that α1-PDX decreased cell protrusions and migration, and this manifested as decreased tumourigenesis when examined in vivo using a chick CAM assay.

MicroRNA Regulation of Glycolytic Metabolism in Glioblastoma

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive and common malignant brain tumour in adults. A well-known hallmark of GMB and many other tumours is aerobic glycolysis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of short nonprotein coding sequences that exert posttranscriptional controls on gene expression and represent critical regulators of aerobic glycolysis in GBM. In GBM, miRNAs regulate the expression of glycolytic genes directly and via the regulation of metabolism-associated tumour suppressors and oncogenic signalling pathways. This review aims to establish links between miRNAs expression levels, the expression of GBM glycolytic regulatory genes, and the malignant progression and prognosis of GBM. In this review, the involvement of 25 miRNAs in the regulation of glycolytic metabolism of GBM is discussed. Seven of these miRNAs have been shown to regulate glycolytic metabolism in other tumour types. Further eight miRNAs, which are differentially expressed in GBM, have also been reported to regulate glycolytic metabolism in other cancer types. Thus, these miRNAs could serve as potential glycolytic regulators in GBM but will require functional validation. As such, the characterisation of these molecular and metabolic signatures in GBM can facilitate a better understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of this disease.

Identification of novel diagnostic and prognostic miRNA signatures in endometrial cancer

With the goal of identifying diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in endometrial cancer, miRNA-profiling was carried out with formalin-fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissue samples from 49 endometrial cancer patients. Results using an 84-cancer specific miRNA panel identified the upregulation of miR-141-3p and miR-96-5p along with a downregulation of miR-26, miR-126-3p, miR-23b, miR-195-5p, miR-374a and let-7 family of miRNAs in endometrial cancer. We validated the dysregulated expression of the identified miRNAs in a panel of endometrial cancer cell-lines. Immunohistochemical analysis of the tissue micro array derived from these patients established the functional correlation between the decreased expression of tumor suppressive miRNAs and their target oncogenes: ERBB2, EGFR, EPHA2, BAX, GNA12, GNA13, and JUN. Comparative analysis of the samples from the patients with extended progression-free survival (PFS) ( > 21 months) versus the patients with the PFS of < 21 months indicated increased expression of tumor suppressive miR-142-3p, miR-142-5p, and miR-15a-5p in samples from extended PFS patients. In addition to defining a specific set of miRNAs and their target genes as potential diagnostic biomarkers, our studies have identified tumor suppressive miR-142 cluster and miR-15a as predictors of favorable prognosis for therapy response in endometrial cancer.

Identification of plasma microRNAs as new potential biomarkers with high diagnostic power in human cutaneous melanoma

Melanoma is a devastating disease with few therapeutic options in the advanced stage and with the urgent need of reliable biomarkers for early detection. In this context, circulating microRNAs are raising great interest as diagnostic biomarkers. We analyzed the expression profiles of 21 selected microRNAs in plasma samples from melanoma patients and healthy donors to identify potential diagnostic biomarkers. Data analysis was performed using global mean normalization and NormFinder algorithm. Linear regression followed by receiver operating characteristic analyses was carried out to evaluate whether selected plasma miRNAs were able to discriminate between cases and controls. We found five microRNAs that were differently expressed among cases and controls after Bonferroni correction for multiple testing. Specifically, miR-15b-5p, miR-149-3p, and miR-150-5p were up-regulated in plasma of melanoma patients compared with healthy controls, while miR-193a-3p and miR-524-5p were down-regulated. Receiver operating characteristic analyses of these selected microRNAs provided area under the receiver operating characteristic curve values ranging from 0.80 to 0.95. Diagnostic value of microRNAs is improved when considering the combination of miR-149-3p, miR-150-5p, and miR-193a-3p. The triple classifier had a high capacity to discriminate between melanoma patients and healthy controls, making it suitable to be used in early melanoma diagnosis.

Long non-coding RNA ZFAS1 interacts with miR-150-5p to regulate Sp1 expression and ovarian cancer cell malignancy

We reported that long non-coding RNA ZFAS1 was upregulated in epithelial ovarian cancer tissues, and was negatively correlated to the overall survival rate of patients with epithelial ovarian cancer in this study. While depletion of ZFAS1 inhibited proliferation, migration, and development of chemoresistance, overexpression of ZFAS1 exhibited an even higher proliferation rate, migration activity, and chemoresistance in epithelial ovarian cancer cell lines. We further found miR-150-5p was a potential target of ZFAS1, which was downregulated in epithelial ovarian cancer tissue. MiR-150-5p subsequently inhibited expression of transcription factor Sp1, as evidence by luciferase assays. Inhibition of miR-150-5p rescued the suppressed proliferation and migration induced by depletion of ZFAS1 in epithelial ovarian cancer cells, at least in part. Taken together, our findings revealed a critical role of ZFAS1/miR-150-5p/Sp1 axis in promoting proliferation rate, migration activity, and development of chemoresistance in epithelial ovarian cancer. And ZFAS1/miR-150-5p may serve as novel markers and therapeutic targets of epithelial ovarian cancer.

Understanding regulation of microRNAs on intestine regeneration in the sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus using high-throughput sequencing

The sea cucumber, as a member of the Echinodermata, has the capacity to restore damaged organs and body parts, which has always been a key scientific issue. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a class of short noncoding RNAs, play important roles in regulating gene expression. In the present study, we applied high-throughput sequencing to investigate alterations of miRNA expression in regenerative intestine compared to normal intestine. A total of 73 differentially expressed miRNAs were obtained, including 59 up-regulated miRNAs and 14 down-regulated miRNAs. Among these molecules, Aja-miR-1715-5p, Aja-miR-153, Aja-miR-252a, Aja-miR-153-5p, Aja-miR-252b, Aja-miR-2001, Aja-miR-64d-3p, and Aja-miR-252-5p were differentially expressed over 10-fold at 3days post-evisceration (dpe). Notably, real-time PCR revealed that Aja-miR-1715-5p was up-regulated 1390-fold at 3dpe. Moreover, putative target gene co-expression analyses, gene ontology, and pathway analyses suggest that these miRNAs play important roles in specific cellular events (cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis), metabolic regulation, and energy redistribution. These results will provide a basis for future studies of miRNA regulation in sea cucumber regeneration.

Up-regulation of miR-497 confers resistance to temozolomide in human glioma cells by targeting mTOR/Bcl-2

The occurrence of an inherent or acquired resistance to temozolomide (TMZ) is a major burden for patients suffering from glioma. Recently, studies have demonstrated that microRNAs play an important role in the regulation of tumor properties in cancers. However, whether miR‐497 contributes to glioma resistance to chemotherapy is not fully understood. In this study, we showed that the expression of miR‐497 was markedly up‐regulated in TMZ‐resistant glioma cells; high miR‐497 expression level was associated with TMZ‐resistant phenotype of glioma cells. The down‐regulation of miR‐497 in glioma cells enhanced the apoptosis‐induction and growth inhibition effects of TMZ both in vitro and in vivo, whereas promotion of miR‐497 increased the chemosensitization of glioma cells to TMZ. The increased level of miR‐497 in TMZ‐resistant glioma cells was concurrent with the up‐regulation of insulin‐like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R)/insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS1) pathway‐related proteins, that is, IGF1R, IRS1, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and Bcl‐2. In addition, the knockdown of mTOR and Bcl‐2 reduced the tolerance of glioma cells to TMZ. Our results demonstrated that overexpression of miR‐497 is significantly correlated with TMZ resistance in glioma cells by regulating the IGF1R/IRS1 pathway. Therefore, miR‐497 may be used as a new target for treatment of chemotherapy‐resistant glioma.

Helicobacter pylori infection modulates the expression of miRNAs associated with DNA mismatch repair pathway

Genetic and epigenetic inactivation of DNA mismatch repair (MMR) genes might lead to modifications in cancer-related gene expression and cancer development. Recently, it has been shown that the infection by Helicobacter pylori, the major causative agent of gastric cancer, induces DNA damage and inhibits MMR DNA repair. Also, it has been reported that microRNAs (miRs) have an important role in regulating genomic stability and MMR DNA repair. Thus, the aim of this study was to identify miRs regulating MMR pathway in H. pylori-associated gastric carcinogenesis. To address this question, a gastric epithelial cell line and AGS cancer gastric cells were infected with several H. pylori strains. MMR gene expression and miRs correlating with H. pylori strain infection were evaluated. The results showed that H. pylori infection significantly down-regulated the expression of all selected MMR genes. Also, H. pylori infection modulated the expression of several miRs (including miR-150-5p, miR-155-5p, and miR-3163), after 4, 8, and 12 h of infection. Computational prediction of candidate miRs and their predicted MMR targeting sites were obtained from TargetScan, mirDB, and MetaCore. The generated data indicated that the selected miRs (miR-150-5p, miR-155-5p, and miR-3163) could possibly target and modulate MMR genes (POLD3, MSH2, and MSH3, respectively). The target validation was performed using mimics and luciferase gene reporter assays. Briefly, this study shows that H. pylori impairs MMR DNA repair pathway and identifies miRs that regulate MMR gene expression in gastric cancer. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.