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Huang YF, Bhandage AK, Adeström LDP, Punga AR. Short-term changes in serum miRNA levels and patient-reported clinical outcomes in myasthenia gravis. Muscle Nerve 2024; 70:284-289. [PMID: 38855861 DOI: 10.1002/mus.28177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS The circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) miR-150-5p, miR-30e-5p, and miR-21-5p have been suggested as potential biomarkers for myasthenia gravis (MG); however, the relationships between short-term natural changes of the miRNAs and patient-reported MG outcome scores have not been well-studied. We assessed the short-term fluctuations in miRNA levels and patient-reported outcome measures in MG. METHODS This prospective cohort study included 39 MG patients with regular follow-ups and unchanged medications at the Neurology outpatient clinic at Uppsala University Hospital. Patients had weekly follow-up visits for 1 month, at which blood samples were drawn, and scores from MG activities of daily living (MG-ADL), MG quality-of-life-15 (MG-QoL15), and Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) were assessed. Serum levels of miRNA miR-150-5p, miR-30e-5p, and miR-21-5p were analyzed using quantitative real-time PCR. RESULTS Intra-individual levels of miR-30e-5p and miR-150-5p were stable, whereas a significant reduction in miR-21-5p was observed from week 1 to week 2 (p = .0024) and from week 2 to week 3 (p < .0001). There were intra-individual differences over a short time in MG-ADL, with higher scores in female patients (p = .0281) and a significant reduction from the first to the second weeks (p = .0281), whereas MG-QoL15 and FSS scores were stable. DISCUSSION The suggested MG biomarkers miR-30e-5p and miR-150-5p were more stable than miR-21-5p over a short time, indicating their short-term stability as biomarkers. Prospective multi-center studies with longer periods of follow-up and matched controls are needed to validate these miRNAs as biomarkers in MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Fang Huang
- Department of Medical Sciences, Clinical Neurophysiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Amol K Bhandage
- Department of Medical Sciences, Clinical Neurophysiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Anna Rostedt Punga
- Department of Medical Sciences, Clinical Neurophysiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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2
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Sha Q, Zhang Z, Li H, Xu Y, Wang J, Du A. Serum metabolomic profile of myasthenia gravis and potential values as biomarkers in disease monitoring. Clin Chim Acta 2024; 562:119873. [PMID: 39019424 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2024.119873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Serum metabolites from 19 myasthenia gravis (MG) patients and 15 normal controls were analyzed via untargeted metabolomics, including 6 pre/post-treatment paired MG patients, to assess the value of serum metabolites as biomarkers in monitoring MG. METHOD Differential metabolites between MG patients and normal controls were identified through liquid and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry simultaneously. Principal component analysis and orthogonal partial least squares-discriminant analysis were conducted to identify the differential metabolites. Candidate metabolites and pathways associated with MG were selected through a random forest machine learning model. RESULT A total of 310 differential metabolites were identified with a threshold of variable projected importance > 1 and P value < 0.05. Among these, 158 metabolites were upregulated and 152 were downregulated. The random forest machine learning model selected 5 metabolites as potential biomarkers associated with MG: lignoceric acid (AUC=0.944), uridine diphosphate-N-acetylglucosamine (AUC=0.951), arachidonic acid (AUC=0.951), beta-glycerophosphoric acid (AUC=0.933), and L-Asparagine (AUC=0.877). Further analysis using 6 paired MG patients pre- and post-immunosuppression treatment revealed 25 upregulated and 6 downregulated metabolites in post-treatment serum, which might be relevant to disease intervention. The significance remains elusive due to the limited number of patients. CONCLUSION A subset of differential metabolites was identified in the serum of MG patients, some of which changed with immunosuppressive therapy. Small molecule metabolites may serve as valuable biomarkers for disease monitoring in MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianqian Sha
- Department of Neurology, Songjiang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201699, China; Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200336, China
| | - Zhongxiao Zhang
- Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200336, China
| | - Hailong Li
- Department of Neurology, Songjiang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201699, China
| | - Yingchen Xu
- Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200336, China
| | - Ailian Du
- Department of Neurology, Songjiang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201699, China; Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200336, China.
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Ai X, Yu H, Cai Y, Guan Y. Interactions Between Extracellular Vesicles and Autophagy in Neuroimmune Disorders. Neurosci Bull 2024; 40:992-1006. [PMID: 38421513 PMCID: PMC11251008 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-024-01183-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuroimmune disorders, such as multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder, myasthenia gravis, and Guillain-Barré syndrome, are characterized by the dysfunction of both the immune system and the nervous system. Increasing evidence suggests that extracellular vesicles and autophagy are closely associated with the pathogenesis of these disorders. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of the interactions between extracellular vesicles and autophagy in neuroimmune disorders and discuss their potential diagnostic and therapeutic applications. Here we highlight the need for further research to fully understand the mechanisms underlying these disorders, and to develop new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiwen Ai
- Department of Neurology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Affiliated Renji Hospital, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Haojun Yu
- Department of Neurology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Affiliated Renji Hospital, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Yu Cai
- Department of Neurology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA.
| | - Yangtai Guan
- Department of Neurology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Affiliated Renji Hospital, Shanghai, 200127, China.
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4
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Wang B, Zhu Y, Liu D, Hu C, Zhu R. The intricate dance of non-coding RNAs in myasthenia gravis pathogenesis and treatment. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1342213. [PMID: 38605954 PMCID: PMC11007667 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1342213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) stands as a perplexing autoimmune disorder affecting the neuromuscular junction, driven by a multitude of antibodies targeting postsynaptic elements. However, the mystery of MG pathogenesis has yet to be completely uncovered, and its heterogeneity also challenges diagnosis and treatment. Growing evidence shows the differential expression of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in MG has played an essential role in the development of MG in recent years. Remarkably, these aberrantly expressed ncRNAs exhibit distinct profiles within diverse clinical subgroups and among patients harboring various antibody types. Furthermore, they have been implicated in orchestrating the production of inflammatory cytokines, perturbing the equilibrium of T helper 1 cells (Th1), T helper 17 cells (Th17), and regulatory T cells (Tregs), and inciting B cells to generate antibodies. Studies have elucidated that certain ncRNAs mirror the clinical severity of MG, while others may hold therapeutic significance, showcasing a propensity to return to normal levels following appropriate treatments or potentially foretelling the responsiveness to immunosuppressive therapies. Notably, the intricate interplay among these ncRNAs does not follow a linear trajectory but rather assembles into a complex network, with competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) emerging as a prominent hub in some cases. This comprehensive review consolidates the landscape of dysregulated ncRNAs in MG, briefly delineating their pivotal role in MG pathogenesis. Furthermore, it explores their promise as prospective biomarkers, aiding in the elucidation of disease subtypes, assessment of disease severity, monitoring therapeutic responses, and as novel therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Ruixia Zhu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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5
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Huang X, Zhang Z, Wang Y, Xu M, Du X, Zhang Y. Circulating miRNAs drive personalized medicine based on subgroup classification in myasthenia gravis patients. Neurol Sci 2023; 44:3877-3884. [PMID: 37402938 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-023-06933-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023]
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a classic autoimmune neuromuscular disease with strong clinical heterogeneity. The concept of subgroup classification was proposed to guide the precise treatment of MG. Subgroups based on serum antibodies and clinical features include ocular MG, early-onset MG with AchR antibodies, late-onset MG with AchR antibodies, thymoma-associated MG, MuSK-associated MG, LRP4-associated MG, and seronegative MG. However, reliable objective biomarkers are still needed to reflect the individualized response to therapy. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNA molecules which can specifically bind to target genes and regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level, and then influence celluar biological processes. MiRNAs play an important role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases, including MG. Several studies on circulating miRNAs in MG have been reported. However, there is rare systematic review to summarize the differences of these miRNAs in different subgroups of MG. Here, we summarize the potential role of circulating miRNAs in different subgroups of MG to promote personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Huang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, No. 99 Huaihai West Road, Quanshan Distric, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Neurology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhouao Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, No. 99 Huaihai West Road, Quanshan Distric, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yingying Wang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, No. 99 Huaihai West Road, Quanshan Distric, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mingming Xu
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, No. 99 Huaihai West Road, Quanshan Distric, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xue Du
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, No. 99 Huaihai West Road, Quanshan Distric, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, No. 99 Huaihai West Road, Quanshan Distric, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
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Rezazadeh-Gavgani E, Oladghaffari M, Bahramian S, Majidazar R, Dolati S. MicroRNA-21: A critical underestimated molecule in diabetic retinopathy. Gene 2023; 859:147212. [PMID: 36690226 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) has grown in attention in recent years as a result of its debilitating complications and chronic disabilities. Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a chronic microvascular complication of DM and is considered as the primary reason for blindness in adults. Early diagnosis of diabetes complications along with targeted therapy options are critical in avoiding morbidity and mortality associated with complications of diabetes. miR-21 is an important and widely studied non-coding-RNA (ncRNA) with considerable roles in various pathologic conditions including diabetic complications. miR-21 is one of the most elevated miRNAs in response to hyperglycemia and its role in angiogenesis is a major culprit of a wide range of disorders including DR. The main role of miR-21 in DR pathophysiology is believed to be through regulating angiogenesis in retina. This article aims to outline miR-21 biogenesis and distribution in human body along with discussions about its role in DR pathogenesis and its biomarker value in order to facilitate understanding of the new characteristics of miR-21 in DR management.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mobina Oladghaffari
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Shirin Bahramian
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Reza Majidazar
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Sanam Dolati
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Research Center, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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Hu YZ, Li Q, Wang PF, Li XP, Hu ZL. Multiple functions and regulatory network of miR-150 in B lymphocyte-related diseases. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1140813. [PMID: 37182123 PMCID: PMC10172652 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1140813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play vital roles in the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. Previous studies have shown that miR-150 is a crucial regulator of B cell proliferation, differentiation, metabolism, and apoptosis. miR-150 regulates the immune homeostasis during the development of obesity and is aberrantly expressed in multiple B-cell-related malignant tumors. Additionally, the altered expression of MIR-150 is a diagnostic biomarker of various autoimmune diseases. Furthermore, exosome-derived miR-150 is considered as prognostic tool in B cell lymphoma, autoimmune diseases and immune-mediated disorders, suggesting miR-150 plays a vital role in disease onset and progression. In this review, we summarized the miR-150-dependent regulation of B cell function in B cell-related immune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue-Zi Hu
- Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Qiao Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Peng-Fei Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xue-Ping Li
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Zhao-Lan Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Zhao-Lan Hu,
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8
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miRNAs as the important regulators of myasthenia gravis: involvement of major cytokines and immune cells. Immunol Res 2022; 71:153-163. [PMID: 36396903 DOI: 10.1007/s12026-022-09342-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a type of muscle paralysis created by immune responses against acetylcholine receptor proteins in neuromuscular synapses. This disease is characterized by muscle weakness, especially ocular weakness symptoms that could be ptosis (fall of the upper eyelid) or diplopia (double vision of a single object). Some patients also identified with speech and swallowing problems. The main goals of MG therapeutic approaches are to achieve remission, reduce symptoms, and improve life quality. Recently, other studies have revealed the potential role of various microRNAs (miRNAs) in the development of MG through different mechanisms and have proposed these molecules as effective biomarkers for the treatment of MG. This review was aimed at providing an overview of the critical regulatory roles of various miRNAs in the pathogenesis of this autoimmune disease focusing on human MG studies and the interaction between different miRNAs with important cytokines and immune cells during the development of this autoimmune disease.
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9
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Saghazadeh A, Rezaei N. MicroRNA expression profiles of peripheral blood and mononuclear cells in myasthenia gravis: A systematic review. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 112:109205. [PMID: 36087508 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies have described the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in thymic function, along with directly observing the altered expression of miRNAs in thymuses of myasthenia gravis (MG) patients; so, miRNAs became a core component in the pathophysiology of MG. However, because the miRNA analysis results are contradictory, the identification of MG-related miRNAs is daunting. OBJECTIVE We did a systematic review of studies analyzing the miRNA expression profile of peripheral blood and mononuclear cells for patients with MG. METHODS We ran a database search in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science on August 17, 2021. Original articles that analyzed miRNA profiles in peripheral blood (serum, plasma, and whole blood) and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) for patients with MG in comparison with a non-MG or healthy control (HC) group were eligible. The quality of studies was assessed using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2 (QUADAS-2). RESULTS 26 studies were included. The quality of studies was fair (median score, 5). Among 226 different miRNAs that were deregulated in at least one study (range, 1-87), ten miRNAs were significantly deregulated in three or more studies. Five miRNAs (50%) showed the same deregulation: miR-106b-3p and miR-21-5p were consistently upregulated, and miR-20b, miR-15b, and miR-16 were consistently downregulated. Also, there were five miRNAs that were mostly upregulated, miR-150-5p, miR-146a, miR-30e-5p, and miR-338-3p, or downregulated, miR-324-3p, across studies. CONCLUSION These miRNAs contribute to different pathways, importantly neural apoptosis and autophagy, inflammation, T regulatory cell development, and T helper cell balance. Prior to being used for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, it is required to pursue molecular mechanisms these consistently and mostly dysregulated miRNAs specifically use in the context of MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amene Saghazadeh
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Expert Group (SRMEG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Nima Rezaei
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy, and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.
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Beretta F, Huang YF, Punga AR. Towards Personalized Medicine in Myasthenia Gravis: Role of Circulating microRNAs miR-30e-5p, miR-150-5p and miR-21-5p. Cells 2022; 11:cells11040740. [PMID: 35203389 PMCID: PMC8870722 DOI: 10.3390/cells11040740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune neuromuscular disease characterized by fatigable skeletal muscle weakness with a fluctuating unpredictable course. One main concern in MG is the lack of objective biomarkers to guide individualized treatment decisions. Specific circulating serum microRNAs (miRNAs) miR-30e-5p, miR-150-5p and miR-21-5p levels have been shown to correlate with clinical course in specific MG patient subgroups. The aim of our study was to better characterize these miRNAs, regardless of the MG subgroup, at an early stage from diagnosis and determine their sensitivity and specificity for MG diagnosis, as well as their predictive power for disease relapse. Serum levels of these miRNAs in 27 newly diagnosed MG patients were compared with 245 healthy individuals and 20 patients with non-MG neuroimmune diseases. Levels of miR-30e-5p and miR-150-5p significantly differed between MG patients and healthy controls; however, no difference was seen compared with patients affected by other neuroimmune diseases. High levels of miR-30e-5p predicted MG relapse (p = 0.049) with a hazard ratio of 2.81. In summary, miR-150-5p is highly sensitive but has low specificity for MG, while miR-30e-5p has the greatest potential as a predictive biomarker for the disease course in MG, regardless of subgroup.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Beretta
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy;
| | - Yu-Fang Huang
- Department of Medical Sciences, Clinical Neurophysiology, Uppsala University, 75185 Uppsala, Sweden;
| | - Anna Rostedt Punga
- Department of Medical Sciences, Clinical Neurophysiology, Uppsala University, 75185 Uppsala, Sweden;
- Correspondence:
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Dichev V, Mehterov N, Kazakova M, Karalilova R, Batalov A, Sarafian V. The lncRNAs/miR-30e/CHI3L1 Axis Is Dysregulated in Systemic Sclerosis. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10020496. [PMID: 35203705 PMCID: PMC8962397 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10020496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease with completely undefined etiology and treatment difficulties. The expression of both protein coding and non-coding RNAs is dysregulated during disease development. We aimed to examine a possible regulatory axis implemented in the control of chitinase-3 like protein 1 (CHI3L1) or YKL-40, an inflammation-associated glycoprotein, shown to be elevated in SSc. A panel of seven miRNAs and three lncRNAs potentially involved in the control of CHI3L1 were selected on the basis of in silico analysis. TagMan assay was used to evaluate the expression levels of miRNAs and RT-qPCR for lncRNAs in white blood cells (WBCs) and plasma from SSc patients and healthy controls. Among the eight screened miRNAs, miR-30e-5p (p = 0.04) and miR-30a-5p (p = 0.01) were significantly downregulated in WBCs and plasma of SSc patients, respectively. On the contrary, the expression of the metastasis associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) (p = 0.044) and the Nuclear enriched abundant transcript 1 (NEAT1) (p = 0.008) in WBCs was upregulated compared to the controls. Increased levels of MALAT1 and NEAT1 could be associated with the downregulation of miR-30e-5p and miR-30a-5p expression in WBCs and plasma. We present novel data on the involvement of a possible regulatory axis lncRNAs/miR-30e/CHI3L1 in SSc and hypothesize that MALAT1 and NEAT1 could act as miR-30e-5p and miR-30a-5p decoys. This may be a reason for the increased serum levels of CHI3L1 in SSc patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentin Dichev
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University-Plovdiv, Blvd. 15A Vasil Aprilov, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (V.D.); (M.K.); (V.S.)
- Research Institute, Medical University-Plovdiv, Blvd. 15A Vasil Aprilov, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Nikolay Mehterov
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University-Plovdiv, Blvd. 15A Vasil Aprilov, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (V.D.); (M.K.); (V.S.)
- Research Institute, Medical University-Plovdiv, Blvd. 15A Vasil Aprilov, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Correspondence: ; Tel.:+359-897-837-998
| | - Maria Kazakova
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University-Plovdiv, Blvd. 15A Vasil Aprilov, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (V.D.); (M.K.); (V.S.)
- Research Institute, Medical University-Plovdiv, Blvd. 15A Vasil Aprilov, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Rositsa Karalilova
- Department of Propedeutics of Internal Diseases, Medical University-Plovdiv, Vasil Aprilov Blvd. 15A, 4001 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (R.K.); (A.B.)
- Clinic of Rheumatology, University Hospital “Kaspela”, 64 Sofia Str., 4001 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Anastas Batalov
- Department of Propedeutics of Internal Diseases, Medical University-Plovdiv, Vasil Aprilov Blvd. 15A, 4001 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (R.K.); (A.B.)
- Clinic of Rheumatology, University Hospital “Kaspela”, 64 Sofia Str., 4001 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Victoria Sarafian
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University-Plovdiv, Blvd. 15A Vasil Aprilov, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (V.D.); (M.K.); (V.S.)
- Research Institute, Medical University-Plovdiv, Blvd. 15A Vasil Aprilov, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
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12
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Punga AR, Maddison P, Heckmann JM, Guptill JT, Evoli A. Epidemiology, diagnostics, and biomarkers of autoimmune neuromuscular junction disorders. Lancet Neurol 2022; 21:176-188. [DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(21)00297-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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13
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Bai X, Bian Z. MicroRNA-21 Is a Versatile Regulator and Potential Treatment Target in Central Nervous System Disorders. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:842288. [PMID: 35173580 PMCID: PMC8841607 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.842288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of endogenous, non-coding, single-stranded RNAs with a length of approximately 22 nucleotides that are found in eukaryotes. miRNAs are involved in the regulation of cell differentiation, proliferation, invasion, apoptosis, and metabolism by regulating the expression of their target genes. Emerging studies have suggested that various miRNAs play key roles in the pathogenesis of central nervous system (CNS) disorders and may be viable therapeutic targets. In particular, miR-21 has prominently emerged as a focus of increasing research on the mechanisms of its involvement in CNS disorders. Herein, we reviewed recent studies on the critical roles of miR-21, including its dysregulated expression and target genes, in the regulation of pathophysiological processes of CNS disorders, with a special focus on apoptosis and inflammation. Collectively, miR-21 is a versatile regulator in the progression of CNS disorders and could be a promising biomarker and therapeutic target for these diseases. An in-depth understanding of the mechanisms by which miR-21 affects the pathogenesis of CNS disorders could pave the way for miR-21 to serve as a therapeutic target for these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Bai
- Department of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhigang Bian
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- *Correspondence: Zhigang Bian,
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14
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Kim SH, MacIntyre DA, Sykes L, Arianoglou M, Bennett PR, Terzidou V. Whole Blood Holding Time Prior to Plasma Processing Alters microRNA Expression Profile. Front Genet 2022; 12:818334. [PMID: 35096023 PMCID: PMC8795683 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.818334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) can exhibit aberrant expression under different physiological and pathological conditions. Therefore, differentially expressed circulating miRNAs have been a focus of biomarker discovery research. However, the use of circulating miRNAs comes with challenges which may hinder the reliability for their clinical application. These include varied sample collection protocols, storage times/conditions, sample processing and analysis methods. This study focused on examining the effect of whole blood holding time on the stability of plasma miRNA expression profiles. Whole blood samples were collected from healthy pregnant women and were held at 4°C for 30 min, 2 h, 6 h or 24 h prior to processing for plasma isolation. Plasma RNA was extracted and the expression of 179 miRNAs were analyzed. Unsupervised principal component analysis demonstrated that whole blood holding time was a major source of variation in miRNA expression profiles with 53 of 179 miRNAs showing significant changes in expression. Levels of specific miRNAs previously reported to be associated with pregnancy-associated complications such as hsa-miR-150-5p, hsa-miR-191-5p, and hsa-miR-29a-3p, as well as commonly used endogenous miRNA controls, hsa-miR-16-5p, hsa-miR-25-3p, and hsa-miR-223-3p were significantly altered with increase in blood holding time. Current protocols for plasma-based miRNA profiling for diagnostics describe major differences in whole blood holding periods ranging from immediately after collection to 26 h after. Our results demonstrate holding time can have dramatic effects on analytical reliability and reproducibility. This highlights the importance of standardization of blood holding time prior to processing for plasma in order to minimize introduction of non-biological variance in miRNA profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung Hye Kim
- Parturition Group, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- March of Dimes European Preterm Birth Research Centre, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - David A MacIntyre
- Parturition Group, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- March of Dimes European Preterm Birth Research Centre, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lynne Sykes
- Parturition Group, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- March of Dimes European Preterm Birth Research Centre, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Maria Arianoglou
- Parturition Group, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- March of Dimes European Preterm Birth Research Centre, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Phillip R Bennett
- Parturition Group, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- March of Dimes European Preterm Birth Research Centre, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Vasso Terzidou
- Parturition Group, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- March of Dimes European Preterm Birth Research Centre, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Academic Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, United Kingdom
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15
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Ghafouri-Fard S, Azimi T, Hussen BM, Taheri M, Jalili Khoshnoud R. A Review on the Role of Non-Coding RNAs in the Pathogenesis of Myasthenia Gravis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:12964. [PMID: 34884767 PMCID: PMC8657981 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 11/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune condition related to autoantibodies against certain proteins in the postsynaptic membranes in the neuromuscular junction. This disorder has a multifactorial inheritance. The connection between environmental and genetic factors can be established by epigenetic factors, such as microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). XLOC_003810, SNHG16, IFNG-AS1, and MALAT-1 are among the lncRNAs with a possible role in the pathoetiology of MG. Moreover, miR-150-5p, miR-155, miR-146a-5p, miR-20b, miR-21-5p, miR-126, let-7a-5p, and let-7f-5p are among miRNAs whose roles in the pathogenesis of MG has been assessed. In the current review, we summarize the impact of miRNAs and lncRNAs in the development or progression of MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soudeh Ghafouri-Fard
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 19835-35511, Iran;
| | - Tahereh Azimi
- Phytochemistry Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 19835-35511, Iran;
| | - Bashdar Mahmud Hussen
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Erbil 44001, Iraq;
| | - Mohammad Taheri
- Institute of Human Genetics, Jena University Hospital, 07747 Jena, Germany
| | - Reza Jalili Khoshnoud
- Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 19835-35511, Iran
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Olivieri F, Prattichizzo F, Giuliani A, Matacchione G, Rippo MR, Sabbatinelli J, Bonafè M. miR-21 and miR-146a: The microRNAs of inflammaging and age-related diseases. Ageing Res Rev 2021; 70:101374. [PMID: 34082077 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2021.101374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The first paper on "inflammaging" published in 2001 paved the way for a unifying theory on how and why aging turns out to be the main risk factor for the development of the most common age-related diseases (ARDs). The most exciting challenge on this topic was explaining how systemic inflammation steeps up with age and why it shows different rates among individuals of the same chronological age. The "epigenetic revolution" in the past twenty years conveyed that the assessment of the individual genetic make-up is not enough to depict the trajectories of age-related inflammation. Accordingly, others and we have been focusing on the role of non-coding RNA, i.e. microRNAs (miRNAs), in inflammaging. The results obtained in the latest 10 years underpinned the key role of a miRNA subset that we have called inflammamiRs, owing to their ability to master (NF-κB)-driven inflammatory pathways. In this review, we will focus on two inflammamiRs, i.e. miR-21-5p and miR-146a-5p, which target a variety of molecules belonging to the NF-κB/NLRP3 pathways. The interplay between miR-146a-5p and IL-6 in the context of aging and ARDs will also be highlighted. We will also provide the most relevant evidence suggesting that circulating inflammamiRs, along with IL-6, can measure the degree of inflammaging.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Ocular myasthenia gravis (OMG) is a complex condition with heterogenous phenotypes and ill-defined diagnostic criteria. Understanding concomitant risk factors and autoimmune serology can help inform prognosis for generalization and guide treatment. RECENT FINDINGS Although antibodies to acetylcholine receptors or muscle-specific kinase likely increase risk of generalization, they are less frequent in OMG. Patients without either antibody tend to have a milder disease process and often have variable antibodies to other end-plate proteins such as LRP4, agrin, or cortactin. The treatment of OMG begins with pyridostigmine and is supplemented by oral prednisone if treatment-resistant or high risk for generalization. Variable oral prednisone regimens have been used with success and further immunosuppression may be best achieved with mycophenolate mofetil and azathioprine. Checkpoint inhibitor-induced myasthenia gravis is increasingly recognized and likely has high rates of mortality associated with myocarditis. SUMMARY Our understanding of OMG and its variable phenotypes continues to evolve. Autoantibody testing increasingly provides valuable diagnostic and prognostic information. Despite these improvements, a lack of quality treatment trials creates significant challenges for evidence-based management guidelines.
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18
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Nazimek K. The complex functions of microRNA-150 in allergy, autoimmunity and immune tolerance. AIMS ALLERGY AND IMMUNOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.3934/allergy.2021016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
<abstract>
<p>At present, special efforts are being made to develop the strategies allowing for activation of long-lasting antigen-specific immune tolerance in therapy of allergic and autoimmune diseases. Some of these therapeutic approaches are aimed at modulating cell functions at genetic level by using miRNA-based and miRNA-targeting treatments. Simultaneously, the crucial role of extracellular vesicles as natural miRNA conveyors is highlighted for induction of antigen-specific immune tolerance, especially that they appear to be easily manipulatable for therapeutic applications. Among other immune-related miRNAs, miR-150 is getting special attention as it is differently expressed by immune cells at various stages of their maturation and differentiation. In addition, miR-150 is involved in different signaling cascades orchestrating humoral and cell-mediated mechanisms of both innate and adaptive immune responses. Therefore, miR-150 is considered a master regulator of immunity in mammals. Currently, physiological miR-150-dependent regulatory circuits and causes of their malfunctioning that underlie the pathogenesis of allergic and autoimmune disorders are being unraveled. Thus, present review summarizes the current knowledge of the role of miR-150 in the pathogenesis and complications of these diseases. Furthermore, the involvement of miR-150 in regulation of immune responses to allergens and self-antigens and in induction of antigen-specific immune tolerance is discussed with the special emphasis on the therapeutic potential of this miRNA.</p>
</abstract>
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19
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Low-dose rituximab lowers serum Exosomal miR-150-5p in AChR-positive refractory myasthenia gravis patients. J Neuroimmunol 2020; 348:577383. [PMID: 32961347 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2020.577383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Two potentially related microRNAs (miRNAs; miR-150-5p and miR-146a-5p) were examined after low-dose rituximab (RTX) treatment in patients with acetylcholine receptor antibody (AChR)-positive refractory myasthenia gravis (MG). In this prospective, open-label, and self-controlled pilot trial, 12 AChR-positive refractory MG patients were administrated a single, low dose of RTX and followed up at six months. Results showed that RTX decreased the serum exosomal miR-150-5p, scores on three clinical indices (MGFA, MMT, ADL), and patients' prednisolone requirement. Additionally, CD19+ and CD27+ B cells decreased, showing a strong correlation with miR-150-5p. In conclusion, low-dose RTX is effective for AChR-positive refractory MG treatment. Furthermore, our data support the role of miR-150-5p as a potential biomarker for MG.
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20
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Cavalcante P, Mantegazza R, Bernasconi P. Pharmacogenetic and pharmaco-miR biomarkers for tailoring and monitoring myasthenia gravis treatments. EXPERT REVIEW OF PRECISION MEDICINE AND DRUG DEVELOPMENT 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/23808993.2020.1804865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Paola Cavalcante
- Neurology IV Unit ‒ Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases, Fondazione I.R.C.C.S. Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Renato Mantegazza
- Neurology IV Unit ‒ Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases, Fondazione I.R.C.C.S. Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Pia Bernasconi
- Neurology IV Unit ‒ Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases, Fondazione I.R.C.C.S. Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
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21
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This article provides an update on the most recent advances in diagnostic procedures and therapeutic approaches for myasthenia gravis, spanning from autoantibody and neuroelectrophysiological tests as diagnostic tools, to innovative and promising treatments based on biological drugs. RECENT FINDINGS Novel studies performed by cell-based assays (CBAs) indicate an improvement in the chance of identifying serum autoantibodies in myasthenic patients. Clinical trials on the use of biological drugs were recently concluded, providing important data on safety and efficacy of eculizumab, efgartigimod and amifampridine phosphate: the first, a complement blocker, showed long-term safety and efficacy in acetylcholine receptor (AChR)-positive myasthenic patients with refractory generalized disease; the second, the neonatal Fc receptor blocker, was well tolerated and clinically effective in both AChR-specific and muscle-specific kinase receptor (MuSK)-positive patients; the third, a blocker of presynaptic potassium channels, was found to be well tolerated and effective in MuSK-positive patients. SUMMARY CBAs can lead to a significant reduction of seronegative patients, improving myasthenia gravis diagnostic process. New biological drugs offer innovative approaches to treat myasthenic patients with generalized disease, promising to change the paradigm of treatment and to significantly enhance therapeutic success within a precision medicine framework.
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22
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Wang L, Zhang L. Emerging Roles of Dysregulated MicroRNAs in Myasthenia Gravis. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:507. [PMID: 32508584 PMCID: PMC7253668 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a rare acquired autoimmune neuromuscular disease. Autoantibodies, cellular immunity, complement, and cytokines are involved in the pathogenesis of MG. It is characterized by the dysfunction of neuromuscular junction transmission and skeletal muscle weakness. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding small molecule ribonucleic acids that regulate various biological processes (e.g., development, differentiation, and immunity) at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels of gene expression. miRNAs play an important regulatory role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases, including MG. In recent studies, the functional mechanisms underlying the role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of MG have received increasing attention. miRNAs are highly stable and have high specificity in peripheral body fluids. Therefore, the miRNAs in body fluids may represent promising biomarkers for determining the prognosis of MG and the efficacy of treatment. This article reviews the role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of MG, highlights the potential of miRNAs as new biomarkers for the diagnosis of MG, and deepens our understanding of disease processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Wang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Lijuan Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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23
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Sabre L, Punga T, Punga AR. Circulating miRNAs as Potential Biomarkers in Myasthenia Gravis: Tools for Personalized Medicine. Front Immunol 2020; 11:213. [PMID: 32194544 PMCID: PMC7065262 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease caused by antibodies which attack receptors at the neuromuscular junction. One of the main difficulties in predicting the clinical course of MG is the heterogeneity of the disease, where disease progression differs greatly depending on the subgroup that the patient is classified into. MG subgroups are classified according to: age of onset [early-onset MG (EOMG; onset ≤ 50 years) versus late-onset MG (LOMG; onset > 50 years]; the presence of a thymoma (thymoma-associated MG); antibody subtype [acetylcholine receptor antibody seropositive (AChR+) and muscle-specific tyrosine kinase antibody seropositive (MuSK+)]; as well as clinical subtypes (ocular versus generalized MG). The diagnostic tests for MG, such as antibody titers, neurophysiological tests, and objective clinical fatigue score, do not necessarily reflect disease progression. Hence, there is a great need for reliable objective biomarkers in MG to follow the disease course as well as the individualized response to therapy toward personalized medicine. In this regard, circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as promising potential biomarkers due to their accessibility in body fluids and unique profiles in different diseases, including autoimmune disorders. Several studies on circulating miRNAs in MG subtypes have revealed specific miRNA profiles in patients’ sera. In generalized AChR+ EOMG, miR-150-5p and miR-21-5p are the most elevated miRNAs, with lower levels observed upon treatment with immunosuppression and thymectomy. In AChR+ generalized LOMG, the miR-150-5p, miR-21-5p, and miR-30e-5p levels are elevated and decrease in accordance with the clinical response after immunosuppression. In ocular MG, higher levels of miR-30e-5p discriminate patients who will later generalize from those remaining ocular. In contrast, in MuSK+ MG, the levels of the let-7 miRNA family members are elevated. Studies of circulating miRNA profiles in Lrp4 or agrin antibody-seropositive MG are still lacking. This review summarizes the present knowledge of circulating miRNAs in different subgroups of MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liis Sabre
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia.,Department of Neuroscience, Clinical Neurophysiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Tanel Punga
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anna Rostedt Punga
- Department of Neuroscience, Clinical Neurophysiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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24
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Angelopoulou E, Paudel YN, Piperi C. Unraveling the Role of Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products (RAGE) and Its Ligands in Myasthenia Gravis. ACS Chem Neurosci 2020; 11:663-673. [PMID: 32017530 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.9b00678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune T cell-dependent B cell-mediated disorder of the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) characterized by fluctuating skeletal muscle weakness, most commonly attributed to pathogenic autoantibodies against postsynaptic nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (AChRs). Although MG pathogenesis is well-documented, there are no objective biomarkers that could effectively correlate with disease severity or MG clinical subtypes, and current treatment approaches are often ineffective. The receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) is a multiligand cell-bound receptor highly implicated in proinflammatory responses and autoimmunity. Preclinical evidence demonstrates that RAGE and its ligand S100B are upregulated in rat models of experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis (EAMG). S100B-mediated RAGE activation has been shown to exacerbate EAMG, by enhancing T cell proinflammatory responses, aggravating T helper (Th) subset imbalance, increasing AChR-specific T cell proliferative capacity, and promoting the production of antibodies against AChRs from the spleen. Soluble sRAGE and esRAGE, acting as decoys of RAGE ligands, are found to be significantly reduced in MG patients. Moreover, MG has been associated with increased serum levels of S100A12, S100B and HMGB1. Several studies have shown that the presence of thymic abnormalities, the onset age of MG, and the duration of the disease may affect the levels of these proteins in MG patients. Herein, we discuss the emerging role of RAGE and its ligands in MG immunopathogenesis, their clinical significance as promising biomarkers, as well as the potential therapeutic implications of targeting RAGE signaling in MG treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efthalia Angelopoulou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Yam Nath Paudel
- Neuropharmacology Research Laboratory, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, 46150 Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Christina Piperi
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
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25
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Fiorillo AA, Heier CR, Huang YF, Tully CB, Punga T, Punga AR. Estrogen Receptor, Inflammatory, and FOXO Transcription Factors Regulate Expression of Myasthenia Gravis-Associated Circulating microRNAs. Front Immunol 2020; 11:151. [PMID: 32153563 PMCID: PMC7046803 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNA molecules that regulate important intracellular biological processes. In myasthenia gravis (MG), a disease-specific pattern of elevated circulating miRNAs has been found, and proposed as potential biomarkers. These elevated miRNAs include miR-150-5p, miR-21-5p, and miR-30e-5p in acetylcholine receptor antibody seropositive (AChR+) MG and miR-151a-3p, miR-423-5p, let-7a-5p, and let-7f-5p in muscle-specific tyrosine kinase antibody seropositive (MuSK+) MG. In this study, we examined the regulation of each of these miRNAs using chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq) data from the Encyclopedia of DNA Elements (ENCODE) to gain insight into the transcription factor pathways that drive their expression in MG. Our aim was to look at the transcription factors that regulate miRNAs and then validate some of those in vivo with cell lines that have sufficient expression of these transcription factors This analysis revealed several transcription factor families that regulate MG-specific miRNAs including the Forkhead box or the FOXO proteins (FoxA1, FoxA2, FoxM1, FoxP2), AP-1, interferon regulatory factors (IRF1, IRF3, IRF4), and signal transducer and activator of transcription proteins (Stat1, Stat3, Stat5a). We also found binding sites for nuclear factor of activated T-cells (NFATC1), nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), early growth response factor (EGR1), and the estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1). AChR+ MG miRNAs showed a stronger overall regulation by the FOXO transcription factors, and of this group, miR-21-5p, let-7a, and let 7f were found to possess ESR1 binding sites. Using a murine macrophage cell line, we found activation of NF-κB -mediated inflammation by LPS induced expression of miR-21-5p, miR-30e-5p, miR-423-5p, let-7a, and let-7f. Pre-treatment of cells with the anti-inflammatory drugs prednisone or deflazacort attenuated induction of inflammation-induced miRNAs. Interestingly, the activation of inflammation induced packaging of the AChR+-specific miRNAs miR-21-5p and miR-30e-5p into exosomes, suggesting a possible mechanism for the elevation of these miRNAs in MG patient serum. In conclusion, our study summarizes the regulatory transcription factors that drive expression of AChR+ and MuSK+ MG-associated miRNAs. Our findings of elevated miR-21-5p and miR-30e-5p expression in immune cells upon inflammatory stimulation and the suppressive effect of corticosteroids strengthens the putative role of these miRNAs in the MG autoimmune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyson A Fiorillo
- Center for Genetic Medicine Research, Children's Research Institute, Washington, DC, United States.,Genomics & Precision Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Christopher R Heier
- Center for Genetic Medicine Research, Children's Research Institute, Washington, DC, United States.,Genomics & Precision Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Yu-Fang Huang
- Department of Neuroscience, Clinical Neurophysiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Christopher B Tully
- Center for Genetic Medicine Research, Children's Research Institute, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Tanel Punga
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anna Rostedt Punga
- Department of Neuroscience, Clinical Neurophysiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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26
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Guo J, Shen S, Liu X, Ruan X, Zheng J, Liu Y, Liu L, Ma J, Ma T, Shao L, Wang D, Yang C, Xue Y. Role of linc00174/miR-138-5p (miR-150-5p)/FOSL2 Feedback Loop on Regulating the Blood-Tumor Barrier Permeability. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2019; 18:1072-1090. [PMID: 31791014 PMCID: PMC6906710 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2019.10.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2019] [Revised: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The blood-tumor barrier (BTB) limits the transport of chemotherapeutic drugs to brain tumor tissues and impacts the treatment of glioma. Long non-coding RNAs play critical roles in various biological processes of tumors; however, the function of these in BTB permeability is still unclear. In this study, we have identified that long intergenic non-protein coding RNA 174 (linc00174) was upregulated in glioma endothelial cells (GECs) from glioma tissues. Additionally, linc00174 was also upregulated in GECs from the BTB model in vitro. Knock down of linc00174 increased BTB permeability and reduced the expression of the tight junction-related proteins ZO-1, occludin, and claudin-5. Both bioinformatics data and results of luciferase reporter assays demonstrated that linc00174 regulated BTB permeability by binding to miR-138-5p and miR-150-5p. Furthermore, knock down of linc00174 inhibited FOSL2 expression via upregulating miR-138-5p and miR-150-5p. FOSL2 interacted with the promoter regions and upregulated the promoter activity of ZO-1, occludin, claudin-5, and linc00174 in GECs. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that the linc00174/miR-138-5p (miR-150-5p)/FOSL2 feedback loop played an essential role in regulating BTB permeability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jizhe Guo
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Life Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health of China, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education of China, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuyuan Shen
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Life Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health of China, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education of China, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaobai Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, People's Republic of China; Liaoning Research Center for Translational Medicine in Nervous System Disease, Shenyang 110004, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Neuro-oncology in Liaoning Province, Shenyang 110004, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuelei Ruan
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Life Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health of China, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education of China, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, People's Republic of China; Liaoning Research Center for Translational Medicine in Nervous System Disease, Shenyang 110004, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Neuro-oncology in Liaoning Province, Shenyang 110004, People's Republic of China
| | - Yunhui Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, People's Republic of China; Liaoning Research Center for Translational Medicine in Nervous System Disease, Shenyang 110004, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Neuro-oncology in Liaoning Province, Shenyang 110004, People's Republic of China
| | - Libo Liu
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Life Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health of China, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education of China, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Ma
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Life Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health of China, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education of China, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, People's Republic of China
| | - Teng Ma
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Life Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health of China, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education of China, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, People's Republic of China
| | - Lianqi Shao
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Life Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health of China, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education of China, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, People's Republic of China
| | - Di Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, People's Republic of China; Liaoning Research Center for Translational Medicine in Nervous System Disease, Shenyang 110004, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Neuro-oncology in Liaoning Province, Shenyang 110004, People's Republic of China
| | - Chunqing Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, People's Republic of China; Liaoning Research Center for Translational Medicine in Nervous System Disease, Shenyang 110004, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Neuro-oncology in Liaoning Province, Shenyang 110004, People's Republic of China
| | - Yixue Xue
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Life Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health of China, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education of China, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, People's Republic of China.
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Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease caused by antibodies against the acetylcholine receptor (AChR), muscle-specific kinase (MuSK) or other AChR-related proteins in the postsynaptic muscle membrane. Localized or general muscle weakness is the predominant symptom and is induced by the antibodies. Patients are grouped according to the presence of antibodies, symptoms, age at onset and thymus pathology. Diagnosis is straightforward in most patients with typical symptoms and a positive antibody test, although a detailed clinical and neurophysiological examination is important in antibody-negative patients. MG therapy should be ambitious and aim for clinical remission or only mild symptoms with near-normal function and quality of life. Treatment should be based on MG subgroup and includes symptomatic treatment using acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, thymectomy and immunotherapy. Intravenous immunoglobulin and plasma exchange are fast-acting treatments used for disease exacerbations, and intensive care is necessary during exacerbations with respiratory failure. Comorbidity is frequent, particularly in elderly patients. Active physical training should be encouraged.
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Cron MA, Maillard S, Truffault F, Gualeni AV, Gloghini A, Fadel E, Guihaire J, Behin A, Berrih-Aknin S, Le Panse R. Causes and Consequences of miR-150-5p Dysregulation in Myasthenia Gravis. Front Immunol 2019; 10:539. [PMID: 30984166 PMCID: PMC6450174 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 02/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a chronic neuromuscular disease mainly due to antibodies against the acetylcholine receptor (AChR) at the neuromuscular junction that induce invalidating muscle weaknesses. In early-onset MG, the thymus is the effector organ and is often characterized by B-cell infiltrations leading to ectopic germinal center (GC) development. The microRNA miR-150-5p has been previously characterized as a biomarker in MG due to its increase in the serum of patients and its decrease after thymectomy, correlated with an improvement of symptoms. Here, we investigated the causes and consequences of the miR-150 increase in the serum of early-onset MG patients. We observed that miR-150 expression was upregulated in MG thymuses in correlation with the presence of thymic B cells and showed by in situ hybridization experiments, that miR-150 was mainly expressed by cells of the mantle zone of GCs. However, we did not observe any correlation between the degree of thymic hyperplasia and the serum levels in MG patients. In parallel, we also investigated the expression of miR-150 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from MG patients. We observed that miR-150 was down-regulated, especially in CD4+ T cells compared to controls. These results suggest that the increased serum levels of miR-150 could result from a release from activated peripheral CD4+ T cells. Next, we demonstrated that the in vitro treatment of PBMCs with miR-150 or antimiR-150 oligonucleotides, respectively, decreased or increased the expression of one of its major target gene: the proto-oncogene MYB, a well-known actor of hematopoiesis. These results revealed that increased serum levels of miR-150 in MG patients could have a functional effect on PBMCs. We also showed that antimiR-150 caused increased cellular death of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, along with the overexpression of pro-apoptotic genes targeted by miR-150 suggesting that miR-150 controlled the survival of these cells. Altogether, these results showed that miR-150 could play a role in MG both at the thymic level and in periphery by modulating the expression of target genes and peripheral cell survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie A Cron
- Center of Research in Myology, Sorbonne University, INSERM, Association Institute of Myology - UMRS 974, Paris, France
| | - Solène Maillard
- Center of Research in Myology, Sorbonne University, INSERM, Association Institute of Myology - UMRS 974, Paris, France
| | - Frédérique Truffault
- Center of Research in Myology, Sorbonne University, INSERM, Association Institute of Myology - UMRS 974, Paris, France
| | - Ambra Vittoria Gualeni
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Annunziata Gloghini
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Elie Fadel
- Marie Lannelongue Hospital, Paris-Sud University, Le Plessis-Robinson, France
| | - Julien Guihaire
- Marie Lannelongue Hospital, Paris-Sud University, Le Plessis-Robinson, France
| | - Anthony Behin
- Neuromuscular Disease Center, AIM, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Sonia Berrih-Aknin
- Center of Research in Myology, Sorbonne University, INSERM, Association Institute of Myology - UMRS 974, Paris, France
| | - Rozen Le Panse
- Center of Research in Myology, Sorbonne University, INSERM, Association Institute of Myology - UMRS 974, Paris, France
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29
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Sabre L, Maddison P, Wong SH, Sadalage G, Ambrose PA, Plant GT, Punga AR. miR-30e-5p as predictor of generalization in ocular myasthenia gravis. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2019; 6:243-251. [PMID: 30847357 PMCID: PMC6389736 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2018] [Revised: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To determine a predictive factor for the risk of conversion from ocular myasthenia gravis (OMG) to generalized MG (GMG) in a prospective study. Methods RNA was isolated from serum samples and detection of microRNA (miRNA) expression analyzed with qPCR. In the discovery set, 179 human miRNAs were assayed for profiling of five OMG patients and four age‐ and gender‐matched healthy controls. Based on the specific accumulation pattern of 19 miRNAs from the discovery set, in addition to miRNAs previously found elevated in generalized MG (GMG; miR‐150‐5p and miR‐30e‐5p), 21 miRNAs were subsequently analyzed in a validation cohort of 83 OMG patients (82 immunosuppression treatment naive; 49 male) within 3 months of diagnosis and at a follow‐up visit (median duration 28 months from first visit). Results Thirteen patients generalized 14.8 ± 12.0 months after the diagnosis and the majority (85%) belonged to the late onset MG group. Two miRNAs were significantly higher in secondary GMG (SGMG) patients compared to OMG patients with late onset MG: miR‐30e‐5p (9.1 ± 0.5 vs. 6.3 ± 0.9; P < 0.0001) and miR‐150‐5p (7.4 ± 1.1 vs. 6.4 ± 1.1; P = 0.01). The sensitivity for miR‐30e‐5p in differentiating OMG and SGMG was 96% in all OMG patients and 100% in late onset OMG patients. Interpretation This is the first study to describe a potential predictive factor associated with the risk of generalization for patients with OMG. Raised levels (>8) of miR‐30e‐5p at initial presentation in patients with ocular MG symptoms, give a predictive cut‐off for subsequent generalization of 96–100%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liis Sabre
- Department of Neuroscience Clinical Neurophysiology Uppsala University Uppsala Sweden
| | - Paul Maddison
- Department of Neurology Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust Queens Medical Centre Nottingham Nottinghamshire United Kingdom
| | - Sui H Wong
- Department of Neuro-ophthalmology Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust London
| | - Girija Sadalage
- Department of Neurology Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust Queens Medical Centre Nottingham Nottinghamshire United Kingdom
| | - Philip A Ambrose
- Department of Neurology Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust Queens Medical Centre Nottingham Nottinghamshire United Kingdom
| | - Gordon T Plant
- Department of Neuro-ophthalmology Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust London
| | - Anna R Punga
- Department of Neuroscience Clinical Neurophysiology Uppsala University Uppsala Sweden
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Sabre L, Guptill JT, Russo M, Juel VC, Massey JM, Howard JF, Hobson-Webb LD, Punga AR. Circulating microRNA plasma profile in MuSK+ myasthenia gravis. J Neuroimmunol 2018; 325:87-91. [PMID: 30316681 PMCID: PMC6240475 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2018.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Revised: 10/03/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Muscle-specific tyrosine kinase antibody positive myasthenia gravis (MuSK+ MG) is an immunological subtype with distinctive pathogenic mechanisms and clinical features. The aim of this study was to analyze the circulating plasma microRNA profile of patients with MuSK+ MG. From the discovery cohort miR-210-3p, miR-324-3p and miR-328-3p were further analyzed in the validation cohort. We found a distinct plasma profile of miR-210-3p and miR-324-3p that were significantly decreased in MuSK+ MG patients compared to healthy controls (4.1 ± 1.4 vs 5.1 ± 1.4, p = .006 and 4.7 ± 1.0 vs 5.4 ± 1.3, p = .02). These findings reveal a distinct plasma miRNA profile in MuSK+ MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liis Sabre
- Department of Neuroscience, Clinical Neurophysiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Melissa Russo
- Department of Neurology, Duke University, Durham, USA
| | - Vern C Juel
- Department of Neurology, Duke University, Durham, USA
| | | | - James F Howard
- Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA
| | | | - Anna Rostedt Punga
- Department of Neuroscience, Clinical Neurophysiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
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31
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Sengupta M, Wang BD, Lee NH, Marx A, Kusner LL, Kaminski HJ. MicroRNA and mRNA expression associated with ectopic germinal centers in thymus of myasthenia gravis. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0205464. [PMID: 30308012 PMCID: PMC6181382 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0205464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A characteristic pathology of early onset myasthenia gravis is thymic hyperplasia with ectopic germinal centers (GC). However, the mechanisms that trigger and maintain thymic hyperplasia are poorly characterized. Dysregulation of small, non-coding microRNAs (miRNAs) and their target genes has been identified in the pathology of several autoimmune diseases. We assessed the miRNA and mRNA profiles of the MG thymus and have investigated their role in GC formation and maintenance. METHODS MG thymus samples were assessed by histology and grouped based upon the appearance of GC; GC positive and GC negative. A systems biology approach was used to study the differences between the groups. Our study included miRNA and mRNA profiling, quantitative real-time PCR validation, miRNA target identification, pathway analysis, miRNA-mRNA reciprocal expression pairing and interaction. RESULTS Thirty-eight mature miRNAs and forty-six annotated mRNA transcripts were differentially expressed between the two groups (>1.5 fold change, ANOVA p<0.05). The miRNAs were found to be involved in immune response pathways and identified in other autoimmune diseases. The cellular and molecular functions of the mRNAs showed involvement in cell death and cell survival, cellular proliferation, cytokine signaling and extra-cellular matrix reorganization. Eleven miRNA and mRNA pairs were reciprocally regulated. The Regulator of G protein Signalling 13 (RGS13), known to be involved in GC regulation, was identified in specimens with GC and was paired with downregulation of miR-452-5p and miR-139-5p. MiRNA target sites were validated by dual luciferase assay. Transfection of miRNA mimics led to down regulation of RGS13 expression in Raji cells. CONCLUSION Our study indicates a distinct miRNA and mRNA expression pattern in ectopic GC in MG thymus. These miRNAs and mRNAs are involved in regulatory pathways common to inflammation and immune response, cell cycle regulation and anti-apoptotic pathways suggesting their involvement in support of GC formation in the thymus. We demonstrate for the first time that miR-139-5p and miR-452-5p negatively regulate RGS13 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manjistha Sengupta
- Department of Neurology, George Washington University, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Bi-Dar Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, George Washington University, Washington, D.C., United States of America
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Princess Anne, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Norman H. Lee
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, George Washington University, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Alexander Marx
- University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Linda L. Kusner
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, George Washington University, Washington, D.C., United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Henry J. Kaminski
- Department of Neurology, George Washington University, Washington, D.C., United States of America
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