MicroRNA-219-5p inhibits the proliferation, migration, and invasion of epithelial ovarian cancer cells by targeting the Twist/Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway

Hypermethylation suppresses microRNA-219a-2 to activate the ALDH1L2/GSH/PAI-1 pathway for fibronectin degradation in renal fibrosis

Epigenetic regulations, such as DNA methylation and microRNAs, play an important role in renal fibrosis. Here, we report the regulation of microRNA-219a-2 (mir-219a-2) by DNA methylation in fibrotic kidneys, unveiling the crosstalk between these epigenetic mechanisms. Through genome-wide DNA methylation analysis and pyro-sequencing, we detected the hypermethylation of mir-219a-2 in renal fibrosis induced by unilateral ureter obstruction (UUO) or renal ischemia/reperfusion, which was accompanied by a significant decrease in mir-219a-5p expression. Functionally, overexpression of mir-219a-2 enhanced fibronectin induction during hypoxia or TGF-β1 treatment of cultured renal cells. In mice, inhibition of mir-219a-5p suppressed fibronectin accumulation in UUO kidneys. ALDH1L2 was identified to be the direct target gene of mir-219a-5p in renal fibrosis. Mir-219a-5p suppressed ALDH1L2 expression in cultured renal cells, while inhibition of mir-219a-5p prevented the decrease of ALDH1L2 in UUO kidneys. Knockdown of ALDH1L2 enhanced PAI-1 induction during TGF-β1 treatment of renal cells, which was associated with fibronectin expression. In conclusion, the hypermethylation of mir-219a-2 in response to fibrotic stress attenuates mir-219a-5p expression and induces the up-regulation of its target gene ALDH1L2, which may reduce fibronectin deposition by suppressing PAI-1.

Prognostic value of miR-219-5p in relation to mortality in patients with small cell lung cancer: a retrospective, observational cohort study in China

OBJECTIVES

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a lethal human malignancy, and previous studies support the contribution of microRNA to cancer progression. The prognostic value of miR-219-5p in patients with SCLC remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the predictive value of miR-219-5p with respect to mortality in patients with SCLC and to incorporate miR-219-5p level into a prediction model and nomogram for mortality.

DESIGN

Retrospective observational cohort study.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

Our main cohort included data from 133 patients with SCLC between 1 March 2010 and 1 June 2015 from the Suzhou Xiangcheng People's Hospital. Data from 86 patients with non-SCLC at Sichuan Cancer Hospital and the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University were used for external validation.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Tissue samples were taken during admission and stored, and miR-219-5p levels were measured at a later date. A Cox proportional hazard model was used for survival analyses and for analysing risk factors to create a nomogram for mortality prediction. The accuracy of the model was evaluated by C-index and calibration curve.

RESULTS

Mortality in patients with a high level of miR-219-5p (≥1.50) (n=67) was 74.6%, while mortality in the low-level group (n=66) was 100.0%. Based on univariate analysis, we included significant factors (p<0.05) in a multivariate regression model: patients with high level of miR-219-5p (HR 0.39, 95% CI 0.26-0.59, p<0.001), immunotherapy (HR 0.44, 95% CI 0.23-0.84, p<0.001) and prognostic nutritional index score >47.9 (HR=0.45, 95% CI 0.24-0.83, p=0.01) remained statistically significant factors for improved overall survival. The nomogram had good accuracy in estimating the risk, with a bootstrap-corrected C-index of 0.691. External validation indicated an area under the curve of 0.749 (0.709-0.788).

CONCLUSIONS

The miR-219-5p level was associated with a reduced risk of mortality in patients with SCLC. A nomogram incorporating MiR-219-5p level and clinical factors demonstrated good accuracy in estimating the risk of overall mortality. Prospective validation of the prognostic nomogram is needed.

Propofol-Induced miR-493-3p Inhibits Growth and Invasion of Gastric Cancer through Suppression of DKK1-Mediated Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Activation

Purpose

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common malignant tumors and also one of the most deadly tumors. In recent years, studies have shown that propofol can inhibit the proliferation and metastasis of many tumor cells. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the underlying mechanism of propofol inhibition of the growth and invasion of GC cells.

Methods

Human gastric cancer cell line SGC-7901 and human normal gastric epithelial cell GES-1 were cultured in high-glucose Dulbecco's Modified Eagle's Medium (DMEM) supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum at 37°C with 5% CO₂. Propofol of different concentrations (0, 2, 5, and 10 μg/mL) was used to treat SGC-7901, and miR-493-3p inhibitor was transfected into SGC-7901. The cell proliferation of SGC-7901 was analyzed by MTT as well as colony formation assay. The qRT-PCR was used to assess the expression of mRNA for key genes. We examined the protein expression of DKK1 and relative markers with western blot. Putative binding places of miR-493-3p on the 3'-untranslated area of DKK1 were predicted using bioinformatics and dual-luciferase method.

Results

Propofol prohibited phenotypic features of GC, according to our findings. Furthermore, research into the underlying mechanisms of propofol's suppressive effects in GC cell proved that propofol therapy improved the degrees of expression of the potential tumor suppressor miR-493-3p. The inhibiting properties of propofol on GC cell development, migration, and invasion were abolished when propofol-induced miR493-3p was silenced with anti-miR-493-3p. We also found that this drug reversed epithelial-mesenchymal transformation in SGC-7901 cells via inducing miR-493-3p. Propofol-induced miR-493-3p decreases GC cell development via targeting DKK1 and hence inhibits Wnt/β-catenin signaling, according to these findings.

Conclusion

Propofol-induced miR-493-3p decreased GC cell development via targeting DKK1 and hence inhibited Wnt/β-catenin signaling, according to these findings.

Phytocannabinoid Compositions from Cannabis Act Synergistically with PARP1 Inhibitor against Ovarian Cancer Cells In Vitro and Affect the Wnt Signaling Pathway

Ovarian cancer (OC) is the single most lethal gynecologic malignancy. Cannabis sativa is used to treat various medical conditions, and is cytotoxic to a variety of cancer types. We sought to examine the effectiveness of different combinations of cannabis compounds against OC. Cytotoxic activity was determined by XTT assay on HTB75 and HTB161 cell lines. Apoptosis was determined by flow cytometry. Gene expression was determined by quantitative PCR and protein localization by confocal microscopy. The two most active fractions, F5 and F7, from a high Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) cannabis strain extract, and their standard mix (SM), showed cytotoxic activity against OC cells and induced cell apoptosis. The most effective phytocannabinoid combination was THC+cannabichromene (CBC)+cannabigerol (CBG). These fractions acted in synergy with niraparib, a PARP inhibitor, and were ~50-fold more cytotoxic to OC cells than to normal keratinocytes. The F7 and/or niraparib treatments altered Wnt pathway-related gene expression, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) phenotype and β-catenin cellular localization. The niraparib+F7 treatment was also effective on an OC patient's cells. Given the fact that combinations of cannabis compounds and niraparib act in synergy and alter the Wnt signaling pathway, these phytocannabinoids should be examined as effective OC treatments in further pre-clinical studies and clinical trials.

MiR-219a-5p Inhibits Michigan Cancer Foundation-7 (MCF-7) Cell Migration by Regulating Zinc Finger E-Box Binding Homeobox 1 (ZEB1) Expression

The potential role of miR-219a-5p in the migration of breast cancer has not been fully elucidated. In this study, bioinformatic analysis revealed that high miR-219a-5p expression in breast cancer tissue was associated with good survival of breast cancer patients. RT-qPCR analysis indicated that miR-219a-5p expression is significantly lower in MDA-MB-231 triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells. In addition, pre-miR-219a overexpression inhibited MCF-7 cell migration and inhibited ZEB1, Twist1 and vimentin expression but promoted the expression of E-cadherin. Moreover, miR-219a-5p mimics inhibited MCF-7 cell migration, whereas MCF-7 cell migration was promoted by the miR-219a-5p inhibitor. Furthermore, miR-219a-5p was found to inhibit the translation of ZEB1 expression by targeting the 5′-ACAAUCA-3′ motif of the ZEB1 3′UTR, and the binding motif is conserved in multiple species. ZEB1 overexpression rescued the inhibition of cell migration induced by miR-219a-5p. Finally, an inverse correlation of miR-219a-5p and ZEB1 expression was observed in four breast cancer cell lines. Thus, miR-219a-5p inhibits MCF-7 cell migration by regulating ZEB1 expression, and ZEB1 is the target gene of miR-219a-5p.

A comprehensive survey into the role of microRNAs in ovarian cancer chemoresistance; an updated overview

Ovarian cancer (OC), a frequent malignant tumor that affects women, is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death in this group of individuals. For the treatment of ovarian cancer, systemic chemotherapy with platinum-based drugs or taxanes is the first-line option. However, drug resistance developed over time during chemotherapy medications worsens the situation. Since uncertainty exists for the mechanism of chemotherapy resistance in ovarian cancer, there is a need to investigate and overcome this problem. miRNAs are engaged in various signaling pathways that contribute to the chemotherapeutic resistance of ovarian cancer. In the current study, we have tried to shed light on the mechanisms by which microRNAs contribute to the drug resistance of ovarian cancer and the use of some microRNAs to combat this chemoresistance, leading to the worse outcome of ovarian cancer patients treated with systemic chemotherapeutics.

Plasma miRNA Profile of Crohn's Disease and Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients

Crohn's disease (CD) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are immune mediated inflammatory diseases. Several studies indicate a role for microRNAs (miRNAs) in the pathogenesis of a variety of autoimmune diseases, including CD and RA. Our study's goal was to investigate circulating miRNAs in CD and RA patients to identify potential new biomarkers for early detection and personalized therapeutic approaches for autoimmune diseases. For this study, subjects with CD (n = 7), RA (n = 8) and healthy controls (n = 7) were recruited, and plasma was collected for miRNA sequencing. Comparison of the expression patterns of miRNAs between CD and healthy patients identified 99 differentially expressed miRNAs. Out of these miRNAs, 4 were down regulated, while 95 were up regulated. Comparison of miRNAs between RA and healthy patients identified 57 differentially expressed miRNAs. Out of those, 12 were down regulated, while 45 were up regulated. For all the miRNAs down regulated in CD and RA patients, 420 GO terms for biological processes were similarly regulated between both groups. Therefore, the identification of new plasma miRNAs allows the emergence of new biomarkers that can assist in the diagnosis and treatment of CD and RA.

Cancer Stem Cells in Ovarian Cancer-A Source of Tumor Success and a Challenging Target for Novel Therapies

Ovarian cancer is the most lethal neoplasm of the female genital organs. Despite indisputable progress in the treatment of ovarian cancer, the problems of chemo-resistance and recurrent disease are the main obstacles for successful therapy. One of the main reasons for this is the presence of a specific cell population of cancer stem cells. The aim of this review is to show the most contemporary knowledge concerning the biology of ovarian cancer stem cells (OCSCs) and their impact on chemo-resistance and prognosis in ovarian cancer patients, as well as to present the treatment options targeted exclusively on the OCSCs. The review presents data concerning the role of cancer stem cells in general and then concentrates on OCSCs. The surface and intracellular OCSCs markers and their meaning both for cancer biology and clinical prognosis, signaling pathways specifically activated in OCSCs, the genetic and epigenetic regulation of OCSCs function including the recent studies on the non-coding RNA regulation, cooperation between OCSCs and the tumor microenvironment (ovarian cancer niche) including very specific environment such as ascites fluid, the role of shear stress, autophagy and metabolic changes for the function of OCSCs, and finally mechanisms of OCSCs escape from immune surveillance, are described and discussed extensively. The possibilities of anti-OCSCs therapy both in experimental settings and in clinical trials are presented, including the recent II phase clinical trials and immunotherapy. OCSCs are a unique population of cancer cells showing a great plasticity, self-renewal potential and resistance against anti-cancer treatment. They are responsible for the progression and recurrence of the tumor. Several completed and ongoing clinical trials have tested different anti-OCSCs drugs which, however, have shown unsatisfactory efficacy in most cases. We propose a novel approach to ovarian cancer diagnosis and therapy.

The role of Wnt signaling in skin fibrosis

Skin fibrosis is the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix in the dermis. Cutaneous fibrosis can occur following tissue injury, including burns, trauma, and surgery, resulting in scars that are disfiguring, limit movement and cause significant psychological distress for patients. Many molecular pathways have been implicated in the development of skin fibrosis, yet effective treatments to prevent or reverse scarring are unknown. The Wnt signaling pathways are known to play an important role in skin homeostasis, skin injury, and in the development of fibrotic skin diseases. This review provides a detailed overview of the role of the canonical Wnt signaling pathways in regulating skin scarring. We also discuss how Wnt signaling interacts with other known fibrotic molecular pathways to cause skin fibrosis. We further provide a summary of the different Wnt inhibitor types available for treating skin scarring. Understanding the role of the Wnt pathway in cutaneous fibrosis will accelerate the development of effective Wnt modulators for the treatment of skin fibrosis.

Ovarian cancer: epigenetics, drug resistance, and progression

Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the most common malignant tumors in women. OC is associated with the activation of oncogenes, the inactivation of tumor suppressor genes, and the activation of abnormal cell signaling pathways. Moreover, epigenetic processes have been found to play an important role in OC tumorigenesis. Epigenetic processes do not change DNA sequences but regulate gene expression through DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNA. This review comprehensively considers the importance of epigenetics in OC, with a focus on microRNA and long non-coding RNA. These types of RNA are promising molecular markers and therapeutic targets that may support precision medicine in OC. DNA methylation inhibitors and histone deacetylase inhibitors may be useful for such targeting, with a possible novel approach combining these two therapies. Currently, the clinical application of such epigenetic approaches is limited by multiple obstacles, including the heterogeneity of OC, insufficient sample sizes in reported studies, and non-optimized methods for detecting potential tumor markers. Nonetheless, the application of epigenetic approaches to OC patient diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis is a promising area for future clinical investigation.

RNF43 and PWWP2B inhibit cancer cell proliferation and are predictive or prognostic biomarker for FDA-approved drugs in patients with advanced gastric cancer

Background: Abnormal regulation of genes has been closely related to gastric cancer. The characterization of gastric cancer has necessitated the development of new therapeutics as well as the identification of prognostic markers to predict the response to novel drugs. In our study, we used RNA sequencing analyses to show that on gastric cancer tissues to identification of gastric cancer prognostic markers. We specifically chose to study RNF43 because it inhibits gastric cancer-related Wnt/β-catenin signaling by interacting with Wnt receptors. PWWP2B was chosen because it is a gene which is downregulated in gastric cancer.

Methods: Utilizing RNA sequencing analysis, we evaluated the mRNA expression profile in gastric cancer patients. Also, we used HAP1 cells which is a human near-haploid cell line derived from the male chronic myelogenous leukemia cell line KBM-7. These cell line has one copy of each gene, ensuring the edited allele will not be masked by additional alleles. We investigated the screening of 1,449 FDA-approved drugs in HAP1, HAP1 RNF43 KO and HAP1 PWWP2B KO cells. RNA sequencing data reveals that RNF43 and PWWP2B expression were down-regulated in recurrence gastric cancer patients. Next, we investigated the anti-cancer effects of selected drugs in RNF43 and PWWP2B down-regulated MKN45 gastric cancer cells and xenograft model.

Results: Among these FDA-approved drugs, three drugs (docetaxel trihydrate, pelitinib and uprosertib) showed strong inhibitory effects in RNF43 KO cells and PWWP2B KO cells. In MKN45 xenograft model, tumor volumes were significantly reduced in the docetaxel trihydrate, uprosertib or pelitinib-treated group. Our data demonstrated that RNF43 and PWWP2B are a biomarker that predict recurrence of gastric cancer.

Conclusions: Our findings suggest that docetaxel trihydrate, uprosertib and pelitinib could be used as novel therapeutic agents for the prevention and treatment of gastric cancer with a decrease in RNF43 and PWWP2B expression.

Down-regulation of miR-219-5p increase the risk of cancer-related mortality in patients with prostate cancer

INTRODUCTION

Prostate cancer is a common malignancy in men that is difficult to treat and carries a high risk of death. miR-219-5p is expressed in reduced amounts in many malignancies. However, the prognostic value of miR-219-5p for patients with prostate cancer remains unclear.

METHODS

We retrospectively analysed data from 213 prostate cancer patients from 10 June 2012 to 9 May 2015. Overall survival was assessed by Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox regression models. Besides, a prediction model was constructed, and calibration curves evaluated the model's accuracy.

RESULTS

Of the 213 patients, a total of 72 (33.8%) died and the median survival time was 60.0 months. We found by multifactorial analysis that miR-219-5p deficiency increased the risk of death by nearly fourfold (HR: 3.86, 95% CI): 2.01 to 7.44, p<0.001) and the risk of progression by twofold (HR: 2.79, 95% CI: 1.68 to 4.64, p<0.001). To quantify each covariate's weight on prognosis, we screened variables by cox model to construct a predictive model. The Nomogram showed excellent accuracy in estimating death's risk, with a corrected C-index of 0.778.

CONCLUSIONS

miR-219-5p can be used as a biomarker to predict death risk in prostate cancer patients. The mortality risk prediction model constructed based on miR-219-5p has good consistency and validity in assessing patient prognosis.

miR-219a-5p enhances the radiosensitivity of non-small cell lung cancer cells through targeting CD164

Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-associated mortality. Non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) accounts for 70–85% of the total cases of lung cancer. Radioresistance frequently develops in NSCLC in the middle and later stages of radiotherapy. We investigated the role of miR-219a-5p in radioresistance of NSCLC. miR-219a-5p expression in serum and lung tissue of lung cancer patients was lower than that in control. Compared with radiosensitive (RS) NSCLC patients, miR-219a-5p expression was decreased in serum and lung tissue in radioresistant patients. miR-219a-5p expression level was negatively associated with radioresistance in NSCLC cell lines. Up-regulation of miR-219a-5p increased radiosensitivity in radioresistant NSCLC cells in vitro and in vivo. Down-regulation of miR-219a-5p decreased radiosensitivity in radiosensitive A549 and H358 cells. miR-219a-5p could directly bind in the 3′UTR of CD164 and negatively regulated CD164 expression. CD164 expression was higher in radioresistant NSCLC tissues than RS tissues. Up-regulation of CD164 significantly inhibited miR-219a-5p-induced regulation of RS in radioresistant A549 and H358 cells. Down-regulation of CD164 significantly inhibited the effect of anti-miR-219a-5p on radiosensitive A549 and H358 cells. miR-219a-5p or down-regulation of CD164 could increase apoptosis and γ-H2A histone family member X (γ-H2AX) expression in radioresistant cells in vitro and in vivo. Up-regulation of CD164 could inhibit the effect of miR-219a-5p on apoptosis and γ-H2AX expression. Our results indicated that miR-219a-5p could inhibit CD164, promote DNA damage and apoptosis and enhance irradiation-induced cytotoxicity. The data highlight miR-219a-5p/CD164 pathway in the regulation of radiosensitivity in NSCLC and provide novel targets for potential intervention.

Non-Coding RNAs as Biomarkers of Tumor Progression and Metastatic Spread in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer

Simple Summary

Despite advances in cancer research in recent years, efficient predictive biomarkers of tumor progression and metastatic spread for ovarian cancer are still missing. Therefore, we critically address recent findings in the field of non-coding RNAs (microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs) and DNA methylation in ovarian cancer patients as promising novel biomarkers of ovarian cancer progression.

Abstract

Ovarian cancer is one of the most common causes of death among gynecological malignancies. Molecular changes occurring in the primary tumor lead to metastatic spread into the peritoneum and the formation of distant metastases. Identification of these changes helps to reveal the nature of metastases development and decipher early biomarkers of prognosis and disease progression. Comparing differences in gene expression profiles between primary tumors and metastases, together with disclosing their epigenetic regulation, provides interesting associations with progression and metastasizing. Regulatory elements from the non-coding RNA families such as microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs seem to participate in these processes and represent potential molecular biomarkers of patient prognosis. Progress in therapy individualization and its proper targeting also rely upon a better understanding of interactions among the above-listed factors. This review aims to summarize currently available findings of microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs linked with tumor progression and metastatic process in ovarian cancer. These biomolecules provide promising tools for monitoring the patient’s response to treatment, and further they serve as potential therapeutic targets of this deadly disease.

The Role of microRNAs in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Metastasis

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the deadliest gynecological cancer, and the major cause of death is mainly attributed to metastasis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a group of small non-coding RNAs that exert important regulatory functions in many biological processes through their effects on regulating gene expression. In most cases, miRNAs interact with the 3′ UTRs of target mRNAs to induce their degradation and suppress their translation. Aberrant expression of miRNAs has been detected in EOC tumors and/or the biological fluids of EOC patients. Such dysregulation occurs as the result of alterations in DNA copy numbers, epigenetic regulation, and miRNA biogenesis. Many studies have demonstrated that miRNAs can promote or suppress events related to EOC metastasis, such as cell migration, invasion, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and interaction with the tumor microenvironment. In this review, we provide a brief overview of miRNA biogenesis and highlight some key events and regulations related to EOC metastasis. We summarize current knowledge on how miRNAs are dysregulated, focusing on those that have been reported to regulate metastasis. Furthermore, we discuss the role of miRNAs in promoting and inhibiting EOC metastasis. Finally, we point out some limitations of current findings and suggest future research directions in the field.

Regulatory noncoding RNAs and the major histocompatibility complex

The Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) is a 4 Mbp genomic region located on the short arm of chromosome 6. The MHC region contains many key immune-related genes such as Human Leukocyte Antigens (HLAs). There has been a growing realization that, apart from MHC encoded proteins, RNAs derived from noncoding regions of the MHC-specifically microRNAs (miRNAs) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs)-play a significant role in cellular regulation. Furthermore, regulatory noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) derived from other parts of the genome fine-tune the expression of many immune-related MHC proteins. Although the field of ncRNAs of the MHC is a research area that is still in its infancy, ncRNA regulation of MHC genes has already been shown to be vital for immune function, healthy pregnancy and cellular homeostasis. Dysregulation of this intricate network of ncRNAs can lead to serious perturbations in homeostasis and subsequent disease.

MicroRNA-219a-5p suppresses intestinal inflammation through inhibiting Th1/Th17-mediated immune responses in inflammatory bowel disease

MicroRNA (miR)-219a-5p has been implicated in the development of numerous progression of carcinoma and autoimmune diseases. However, whether miR-219a-5p is involved in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) remains elusive. In this study, we demonstrated that miR-219a-5p expression was significantly decreased in the inflamed intestinal mucosa and peripheral blood (PB)-CD4⁺ T cells from patients with IBD. Proinflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-6, IL-12, IL-23 and TNF-α) inhibited miR-219a-5p expression in CD4⁺ T cells in vitro. Lentivirus-mediated miR-219a-5p downregulation facilitated Th1/Th17 cell differentiation, whereas miR-219a-5p overexpression exerted an opposite effect. Luciferase assays confirmed that ETS variant 5 (ETV5) was a functional target of miR-219a-5p and ETV5 expression was significantly increased in the inflamed intestinal mucosa and PB-CD4⁺ T cells from IBD patients. ETV5 overexpression enhanced Th1/Th17 immune response through upregulating the phosphorylation of STAT3 and STAT4. Importantly, supplementation of miR-219a-5p ameliorated TNBS-induced intestinal mucosal inflammation, characterized by decreased IFN-γ⁺ CD4⁺ T cells and IL-17A⁺ CD4⁺ T cells infiltration in the colonic lamina propria. Our data thus reveal a novel mechanism whereby miR-219a-5p suppresses intestinal inflammation through inhibiting Th1/Th17-mediated immune responses. miR-219a-5p might be a target for the treatment of IBD.

miR-147a suppresses the metastasis of non-small-cell lung cancer by targeting CCL5

Objective

MicroRNA (miR)-147a acts as an inhibitory miRNA in many cancers. However, its potential roles in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remain unclear.

Methods

Levels of miR-147a and C-C motif chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5) were measured using a quantitative real-time PCR assay. Cell growth, migration, and invasion of NSCLC cells were assessed by colony formation, wound healing, and Transwell invasion assays, respectively. The role of miR-147a in the growth and metastatic ability of NSCLC in vivo was detected using a xenograft model and experimental lung metastasis model.

Results

miR-147a was downregulated in NSCLC cell lines as well as in tissues. Gain-of-function and loss-of-function analyses demonstrated that upregulation of miR-147a decreased the aggressiveness of NSCLC cells in vitro. In addition, CCL5 was identified as a target of miR-147a. We also demonstrated the effect of miR-147a in the progression of NSCLC cells via targeting CCL5. Finally, the in vivo mouse xenograft model showed that miR-147a inhibited progression of NSCLC cells.

Conclusions

Overall, expression of miR-147a was downregulated in NSCLC. Importantly, upregulation of miR-147a suppressed the growth and metastasis of NSCLC cells in vivo by targeting CCL5.

Wnt/β-catenin signalling in ovarian cancer: Insights into its hyperactivation and function in tumorigenesis

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the deadliest female malignancy. The Wnt/β-catenin pathway plays critical roles in regulating embryonic development and physiological processes. This pathway is tightly regulated to ensure its proper activity. In the absence of Wnt ligands, β-catenin is degraded by a destruction complex. When the pathway is stimulated by a Wnt ligand, β-catenin dissociates from the destruction complex and translocates into the nucleus where it interacts with TCF/LEF transcription factors to regulate target gene expression. Aberrant activation of this pathway, which leads to the hyperactivity of β-catenin, has been reported in ovarian cancer. Specifically, mutations of CTNNB1, AXIN, or APC, have been observed in the endometrioid and mucinous subtypes of EOC. In addition, upregulation of the ligands, abnormal activation of the receptors or intracellular mediators, disruption of the β-catenin destruction complex, inhibition of the association of β-catenin/E-cadherin on the cell membrane, and aberrant promotion of the β-catenin/TCF transcriptional activity, have all been reported in EOC, especially in the high grade serous subtype. Furthermore, several non-coding RNAs have been shown to regulate EOC development, in part, through the modulation of Wnt/β-catenin signalling. The Wnt/β-catenin pathway has been reported to promote cancer stem cell self-renewal, metastasis, and chemoresistance in all subtypes of EOC. Emerging evidence also suggests that the pathway induces ovarian tumor angiogenesis and immune evasion. Taken together, these studies demonstrate that the Wnt/β-catenin pathway plays critical roles in EOC development and is a strong candidate for the development of targeted therapies.

Wnt Signaling in Ovarian Cancer Stemness, EMT, and Therapy Resistance

Ovarian cancers represent the deadliest among gynecologic malignancies and are characterized by a hierarchical structure with cancer stem cells (CSCs) endowed with self-renewal and the capacity to differentiate. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, known to regulate stemness in a broad spectrum of stem cell niches including the ovary, is thought to play an important role in ovarian cancer. Importantly, Wnt activity was shown to correlate with grade, epithelial to mesenchymal transition, chemotherapy resistance, and poor prognosis in ovarian cancer. This review will discuss the current knowledge of the role of Wnt signaling in ovarian cancer stemness, epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), and therapy resistance. In addition, the alleged role of exosomes in the paracrine activation of Wnt signaling and pre-metastatic niche formation will be reviewed. Finally, novel potential treatment options based on Wnt inhibition will be highlighted.

Mechanisms of Vasculogenic Mimicry in Ovarian Cancer

Solid tumors carry out the formation of new vessels providing blood supply for growth, tumor maintenance, and metastasis. Several processes take place during tumor vascularization. In angiogenesis, new vessels are derived from endothelial cells of pre-existing vessels; while in vasculogenesis, new vessels are formed de novo from endothelial progenitor cells, creating an abnormal, immature, and disorganized vascular network. Moreover, highly aggressive tumor cells form structures similar to vessels, providing a pathway for perfusion; this process is named vasculogenic mimicry (VM), where vessel-like channels mimic the function of vessels and transport plasma and blood cells. VM is developed by numerous types of aggressive tumors, including ovarian carcinoma which is the second most common cause of death among gynecological cancers. VM has been associated with poor patient outcome and survival in ovarian cancer, although the involved mechanisms are still under investigation. Several signaling molecules have an important role in VM in ovarian cancer, by regulating the expression of genes related to vascular, embryogenic, and hypoxic signaling pathways. In this review, we provide an overview of the current knowledge of the signaling molecules involved in the promotion and regulation of VM in ovarian cancer. The clinical implications and the potential benefit of identification and targeting of VM related molecules for ovarian cancer treatment are also discussed.

MicroRNA-449b-5p suppresses cell proliferation, migration and invasion by targeting TPD52 in nasopharyngeal carcinoma

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is an important type of head and neck malignant cancer with geographical distribution. MicroRNA-449b-5p (miR-449b-5p) is related to the development of various cancers, while its function in NPC remains unknown. The present study aimed to investigate the role and target gene of miR-449b-5p in NPC. Expressions of miR-449b-5p in NPC cell lines and clinical tissues were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Cell proliferation was determined by MTT and colony formation assays. Migration and invasion abilities after different treatment were evaluated by wound healing and Transwell assays, respectively. Dual-luciferase reporter assay was performed to explore the relationship between miR-449b-5p and tumour protein D52 (TPD52). TPD52 expression was determined by qRT-PCR and western blot assay. miR-449b-5p was significantly downregulated in NPC cell lines and clinical tissues than the matched control. Overexpression of miR-449b-5p inhibited proliferation, migration and invasion of NPC cells. Dual-luciferase reporter assay indicated that miR-449b-5p directly targeted TPD52. Furthermore, shRNA-mediated downregulation of TPD52 rectified the promotion of cell migration and invasion by miR-449b-5p inhibition. In conclusion, the present study suggests that miR-449b-5p, as a novel tumour-suppressive miRNA against NPC, inhibits proliferation, migration and invasion of NPC cells via inhibiting TPD52 expression.

LncRNA HCP5 promotes triple negative breast cancer progression as a ceRNA to regulate BIRC3 by sponging miR-219a-5p

Emerging evidence has suggested that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA) involved in the development and progression of cancer. Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) was an aggressive type of breast cancer with high rates of cancer recurrence and metastasis. The pathogenesis of TNBC is largely unknown. Recent studies suggested that lncRNA HCP5 plays an important role in carcinogenesis. The purpose of this study was to examine the function and mechanism of HCP5 in TNBC. We observed that HCP5 was upregulated in TNBC cell lines and specimens. HCP5 knockdown induced TNBC cell apoptosis, and inhibited cell proliferation and orthotopic xenograft tumor growth. RNA sequencing and antibody array suggested that HCP5 achieves its functions through regulating apoptosis pathway. Bioinformatics, luciferase and RIP experiments proved that both HCP5 and BIRC3 could competitively bind to miR‐219a‐5p. Increased BIRC3 and decreased miR‐219a‐5p were observed in TNBC tissues and cell lines. We then performed gain‐ and loss‐of‐function studies as well as rescue experiments in TNBC cells. The decrease of proliferation and migration due to HCP5 knockdown could be rescued when miR‐219a‐5p inhibitor or BIRC3 was transfected and vice versa. Our study suggested that lncRNA HCP5 promotes TNBC progression as a ceRNA to regulate BIRC3 by sponging miR‐219a‐5p. In a word, we revealed a new signaling pathway to mediate TNBC, and provided HCP5 as a new target for improving treatment of TNBC.

lncRNA MEG3 modified epithelial-mesenchymal transition of ovarian cancer cells by sponging miR-219a-5p and regulating EGFR

This study was aimed to verify whether there existed any associations between long noncoding RNA MEG3/miR-219a-5p/EGFR axis and the development of ovarian cancer (OC). As a whole, we gathered 317 pairs of OC tissues and surgical marginal normal tissues and simultaneously acquired four OC cell lines (ie, A2780, Caov-3, OVCAR-3, and SKOV-3) and human normal ovarian surface epithelial cell line. Moreover, pcDNA3.1-MEG3, si-MEG3, miR-219a-5p mimic, miR-219a-5p inhibitor, pcDNA3.1-EGFR, and si-EGFR were, respectively, transfected into the OC cells, and their impacts on viability, proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and migration of OC cells were assessed via conduction of MTT assay, colony formation assay, flow cytometry assay, transwell assay, and scratch assay. Ultimately, dual-luciferase reporter gene assay was performed to testify the targeted relationships among maternally expressed gene 3 (MEG3), miR-219a-5p, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (EGFR). It was indicated that underexpressed MEG3 and miR-219a-5p were significantly associated with unfavorable prognosis of patients with OC when compared with overexpressed MEG3 and miR-219a-5p (P < .05). In addition, the OC cells transfected with si-MEG3 or miR-219a-5p inhibitor exhibited stronger viability, proliferation, invasion, and migration than untreated cells (P < .05). Correspondingly, the apoptotic percentage of OC cells was reduced observably under treatments of si-MEG3 and miR-219a-5p inhibitor (P < .05). Moreover, MEG3 exerted modulatory effects on the expression of miR-219a-5p (P < .05), and there was a sponging relationship between them (P < .05). Finally, EGFR expression was modified by both MEG3 and miR-219a-5p significantly (P < .05), and raising EGFR expression could changeover the impacts of MEG3 and miR-219a-5p on the above-mentioned activity of OC cells (P < .05). Conclusively, MEG3 could serve as a promising biomarker for diagnosis and treatment of OC, considering its involvement with OC etiology via regulation of miR-219a-5p/EGFR axis.

miRNA-101-5p inhibits the growth and aggressiveness of NSCLC cells through targeting CXCL6

Background

The purpose of this study is to explore the potential biological roles of miR-101-5p in the progression of non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC).

Methods

The levels of miR-101-5p and chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 6 (CXCL6) in NSCLC tissues and cells were detected using the quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) assay. Proliferation, colony formation, migration and invasion assays were conducted using miR-101-5p-transfected NSCLC cells in vitro. The expression of CXCL6 was measured using immunofluorescence assay. Xenograft model and lung metastasis model were constructed to further reveal the precise roles of miR-101-5p in the lung metastasis and growth of NSCLC cells in vivo.

Results

miR-101-5p was underregulated in NSCLC tissues when compared with that in the normal controls. The levels of miR-101-5p were lower in NSCLC cells (H1975, A549, HCC827 and H1650) than in non-tumorigenic human bronchial epithelial cells (BEAS-2B). Overregulation of miR-101-5p restrained the aggressiveness phenotypes of NSCLC cells in vitro. Furthermore, overregulation of miR-101-5p reduced the tumor growth and pulmonary metastasis of NSCLC cells in vivo. CXCL6 was the target gene of miR-101-5p in NSCLC. The mRNA levels of CXCL6 were negatively associated with the levels of miR-101-5p in NSCLC tissues. Finally, the rescue experiments suggested that the inhibitory role of miR-101-5p was mediated by regulating the expression of CXCL6 in NSCLC.

Conclusion

These findings indicated that overregulation of miR-101-5p restrained the progression of NSCLC cells by targeting CXCL6 and might function as a potential therapeutic target for NSCLC.

MiR-219-5p inhibits growth and metastasis of ovarian cancer cells by targeting HMGA2

Background

Accumulating studies have demonstrated that high-mobility group A2 (HMGA2), an oncofetal protein, plays a role in tumor development and progression. However, the molecular role of HMGA2 in ovarian carcinoma is yet to be established. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a group of small noncoding RNAs, negatively regulate gene expression and their dysregulation has been implicated in tumorigenesis. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential involvement of a specific miRNA, miR-219-5p, in HMGA2-induced ovarian cancer.

Methods

The ovarian cancer cell line, SKOV3, was employed, and miR-219-5p and HMGA2 overexpression vectors constructed. The CCK-8 kit was used to determine cell proliferation and the Transwell^® assay used to measure cell invasion and migration. RT-PCR and western blot analyses were applied to analyze the expression of miR-219-5p and HMGA2, and the luciferase reporter assay used to examine the interactions between miR-219-5p and HMGA2. Nude mice were employed to characterize in vivo tumor growth regulation.

Results

Expression of miR-219-5p led to suppression of proliferation, invasion and migration of the ovarian cancer cell line, SKOV3, by targeting HMGA2. The inhibitory effects of miR-219-5p were reversed upon overexpression of HMGA2. Data from the luciferase reporter assay showed that miR-219-5p downregulates HMGA2 via direct integration with its 3′-UTR. Consistent with in vitro findings, expression of miR-219-5p led to significant inhibition of tumor growth in vivo.

Conclusion

Our results collectively suggest that miR-219-5p inhibits tumor growth and metastasis by targeting HMGA2.

Ectopic Expression of miR-147 Inhibits Stem Cell Marker and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT)-Related Protein Expression in Colon Cancer Cells

Colon cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a crucial step in tumor progression and is also involved in the acquisition of stem cell-like properties. Some miRNAs have been shown to function as either tumor suppressors or oncogenes in colon cancer. Here we investigated the role of miR-147 in the regulation of the stem cell-like traits of colon cancer cells. We observed that miR-147 was downregulated in several colon cancer cell lines, and overexpressed miR-147 decreased the expression of cancer stem cell (CSC) markers OCT4, SOX2, and NANOG in the colon cancer cell lines HCT116 and SW480. Overexpressed miR-147 inhibited EMT by increasing the expression of epithelial markers E-cadherin and α-catenin while decreasing the expression of mesenchymal markers fibronectin and vimentin. Moreover, activation of EMT by TGF-β1 treatment significantly counteracted the inhibitive effect of miR-147 on the expression of CSC markers OCT4, SOX2, and NANOG, supporting the idea that overexpressing miR-147 inhibited stem cell-like traits by suppressing EMT in colon cancer. In addition, we found that overexpressed miR-147 downregulated the expression of β-catenin, c-myc, and survivin, which were related to the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Moreover, treatment of miR-147 mimic-transfected cells with the Wnt/β-catenin pathway activator LiCl attenuated the inhibitive effect of the miR-147 mimic on the EMT and stem cell-like traits of colon cancer cells, indicating that ectopic expression of miR-147 inhibited stem cell-like traits in colon cancer cells by suppressing EMT via the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. In summary, our present study highlighted the crucial role of miR-147 in the inhibition of the stem cell-like traits of colon cancer cells and indicated that miR-147 could be a promising therapeutic target for colon cancer treatment.