MicroRNA-96 Promotes Schistosomiasis Hepatic Fibrosis in Mice by Suppressing Smad7

MicroRNAs in infectious diseases: potential diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are conserved, short, non-coding RNAs that play a crucial role in the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. They have been implicated in the pathogenesis of cancer and neurological, cardiovascular, and autoimmune diseases. Several recent studies have suggested that miRNAs are key players in regulating the differentiation, maturation, and activation of immune cells, thereby influencing the host immune response to infection. The resultant upregulation or downregulation of miRNAs from infection influences the protein expression of genes responsible for the immune response and can determine the risk of disease progression. Recently, miRNAs have been explored as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets in various infectious diseases. This review summarizes our current understanding of the role of miRNAs during viral, fungal, bacterial, and parasitic infections from a clinical perspective, including critical functional mechanisms and implications for their potential use as biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

HCV and HCC Tango-Deciphering the Intricate Dance of Disease: A Review Article

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounting for around one-third of all HCC cases. Prolonged inflammation in chronic hepatitis C (CHC), maintained through a variety of pro- and anti-inflammatory mediators, is one of the aspects of carcinogenesis, followed by mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress. Immune response dysfunction including the innate and adaptive immunity also plays a role in the development, as well as in the recurrence of HCC after treatment. Some of the tumor suppressor genes inhibited by the HCV proteins are p53, p73, and retinoblastoma 1. Mutations in the telomerase reverse transcriptase promoter and the oncogene catenin beta 1 are two more important carcinogenic signaling pathways in HCC associated with HCV. Furthermore, in HCV-related HCC, numerous tumor suppressor and seven oncogenic genes are dysregulated by epigenetic changes. Epigenetic regulation of gene expression is considered as a lasting "epigenetic memory", suggesting that HCV-induced changes persist and are associated with liver carcinogenesis even after cure. Epigenetic changes and immune response dysfunction are recognized targets for potential therapy of HCC.

microRNAs in parasite-induced liver fibrosis: from mechanisms to diagnostics and therapeutics

Chronic parasite infections in the liver pose a global threat to human and animal health, often occurring with liver fibrosis that leads to cirrhosis, liver failure, and even cancer. Hepatic fibrogenesis is a complex yet reversible process of tissue repair and is associated with various factors, including immune cells, microenvironment, gut microbiome, and interactions of the different liver cells. As a profibrogenic or antifibrogenic driver, microRNAs (miRNAs) are closely involved in parasite-induced hepatic fibrosis. This article updates the current understanding of the roles of miRNAs in hepatic fibrogenesis by parasite infections and discusses the strategies using miRNAs as candidates for diagnostics and therapeutics.

Anti-miR-96 and Hh pathway inhibitor MDB5 synergistically ameliorate alcohol-associated liver injury in mice

Alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) and its complications are significant health problems worldwide. Several pathways in ALD are influenced by alcohol that drives inflammation, fatty acid metabolism, and fibrosis. Although miR-96 has become a key regulator in several liver diseases, its function in ALD remains unclear. In contrast, sonic hedgehog (SHH) signaling has a well-defined role in liver disease through influencing the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and the inducement of liver fibrosis. In this study, we investigated the expression patterns of miR-96 and Hh molecules in mouse and human liver samples. We showed that miR-96 and Shh were upregulated in ethanol-fed mice. Furthermore, alcoholic hepatitis (AH) patient specimens also showed upregulated FOXO3a, TGF-β1, SHH, and GLI2 proteins. We then examined the effects of Hh inhibitor MDB5 and anti-miR-96 on inflammatory and extracellular matrix (ECM)-related genes. We identified FOXO3 and SMAD7 as direct target genes of miR-96. Inhibition of miR-96 decreased the expression of these genes in vitro in AML12 cells, HSC-T6 cells, and in vivo in ALD mice. Furthermore, MDB5 decreased HSCs activation and the expression of ECM-related genes, such as Gli1, Tgf-β1, and collagen. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) loaded with the combination of MDB5, and anti-miR-96 ameliorated ALD in mice. Our study demonstrated that this combination therapy could serve as a new therapeutic target for ALD.

microRNAs: Critical Players during Helminth Infections

microRNAs (miRNAs) are a group of small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally through their interaction with the 3' untranslated regions (3' UTR) of target mRNAs, affecting their stability and/or translation. Therefore, miRNAs regulate biological processes such as signal transduction, cell death, autophagy, metabolism, development, cellular proliferation, and differentiation. Dysregulated expression of microRNAs is associated with infectious diseases, where miRNAs modulate important aspects of the parasite-host interaction. Helminths are parasitic worms that cause various neglected tropical diseases affecting millions worldwide. These parasites have sophisticated mechanisms that give them a surprising immunomodulatory capacity favoring parasite persistence and establishment of infection. In this review, we analyze miRNAs in infections caused by helminths, emphasizing their role in immune regulation and its implication in diagnosis, prognosis, and the development of therapeutic strategies.

MicroRNA-181b promotes schistosomiasis-induced hepatic fibrosis by targeting Smad7

Schistosomiasis is a common parasitic disease. Hepatosplenic schistosomiasis, caused by Schistosoma japonicum and Schistosoma mansoni, involves pathological changes, including worm egg-induced hepatic granuloma and fibrosis, which can markedly affect the liver's physiological functions. Although the drug praziquantel (PZQ) is used to treat schistosomiasis, drugs against schistosomiasis-induced liver fibrosis are rare in the clinical setting. Therefore, developing effective strategies to prevent and treat schistosomiasis-induced liver fibrosis is crucial. Previous studies have shown that miRNAs are involved in various liver diseases. In this study, we found a gradual increase in miR-181b expression in the murine liver as S. japonicum infection progressed, while the expression of Smad7 decreased. Down-regulating miR-181b significantly alleviated S. japonicum-induced hepatic granuloma and liver fibrosis. In vitro experiments showed that treatment with TGF-β1 upregulated miR-181b levels in the hepatic stellate cell (HSC) line LX2 in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Downregulation of miR-181b significantly decreased collagen type I alpha 1 chain (COL1A1) expression in TGF-β1-stimulated LX2 cells. These findings indicate that miR-181b promotes HSC activation by down-regulating Smad7 expression, activating the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway, and leading to excess collagen expression and deposition. Our findings suggest that miR-181b might be a potentially novel therapeutic target for schistosomiasis-induced liver fibrosis.

Multifunctional Roles of MicroRNAs in Schistosomiasis

Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease that is caused by helminths of the genus Schistosoma. The dioecious schistosomes mate and lay eggs after undergoing a complex life cycle. Schistosome eggs are mostly responsible for the transmission of schistosomiasis and chronic fibrotic disease induced by egg antigens is the main cause of the high mortality rate. Currently, chemotherapy with praziquantel (PZQ) is the only effective treatment against schistosomiasis, although the potential of drug resistance remains a concern. Hence, there is an urgent demand for new and effective strategies to combat schistosomiasis, which is the second most prevalent parasitic disease after malaria. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that play pivotal regulatory roles in many organisms, including the development and sexual maturation of schistosomes. Thus, miRNAs are potential targets for treatment of schistosomiasis. Moreover, miRNAs can serve as multifunctional “nano-tools” for cross-species delivery in order to regulate host-parasite interactions. In this review, the multifunctional roles of miRNAs in the growth and development of schistosomes are discussed. The various regulatory functions of host-derived and worm-derived miRNAs on the progression of schistosomiasis are also thoroughly addressed, especially the promotional and inhibitory effects on schistosome-induced liver fibrosis. Additionally, the potential of miRNAs as biomarkers for the diagnosis and treatment of schistosomiasis is considered.

MicroRNAs in Transforming Growth Factor-Beta Signaling Pathway Associated With Fibrosis Involving Different Systems of the Human Body

Fibrosis, a major cause of morbidity and mortality, is a histopathological manifestation of many chronic inflammatory diseases affecting different systems of the human body. Two types of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling pathways regulate fibrosis: the canonical TGF-β signaling pathway, represented by SMAD-2 and SMAD-3, and the noncanonical pathway, which functions without SMAD-2/3 participation and currently includes TGF-β/mitogen-activated protein kinases, TGF-β/SMAD-1/5, TGF-β/phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/Akt, TGF-β/Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription protein-3, and TGF-β/rho-associated coiled-coil containing kinase signaling pathways. MicroRNA (miRNA), a type of non-coding single-stranded small RNA, comprises approximately 22 nucleotides encoded by endogenous genes, which can regulate physiological and pathological processes in fibrotic diseases, particularly affecting organs such as the liver, the kidney, the lungs, and the heart. The aim of this review is to introduce the characteristics of the canonical and non-canonical TGF-β signaling pathways and to classify miRNAs with regulatory effects on these two pathways based on the influenced organ. Further, we aim to summarize the limitations of the current research of the mechanisms of fibrosis, provide insights into possible future research directions, and propose therapeutic options for fibrosis.

MicroRNAs in the Pathogenesis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Review

Simple Summary

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most frequently occurring cancers, and the prognosis for late-stage HCC remains poor. A better understanding of the pathogenesis of HCC is expected to improve outcomes. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, noncoding, single-stranded RNAs that regulate the expression of various target genes, including those in cancer-associated genomic regions or fragile sites in various human cancers. We summarize the central roles of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of HCC and discuss their potential utility as valuable biomarkers and new therapeutic agents for HCC.

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the seventh most frequent cancer and the fourth leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide. Despite substantial advances in therapeutic strategies, the prognosis of late-stage HCC remains dismal because of the high recurrence rate. A better understanding of the etiology of HCC is therefore necessary to improve outcomes. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, endogenous, noncoding, single-stranded RNAs that modulate the expression of their target genes at the posttranscriptional and translational levels. Aberrant expression of miRNAs has frequently been detected in cancer-associated genomic regions or fragile sites in various human cancers and has been observed in both HCC cells and tissues. The precise patterns of aberrant miRNA expression differ depending on disease etiology, including various causes of hepatocarcinogenesis, such as viral hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. However, little is known about the underlying mechanisms and the association of miRNAs with the pathogenesis of HCC of various etiologies. In the present review, we summarize the key mechanisms of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of HCC and emphasize their potential utility as valuable diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, as well as innovative therapeutic targets, in HCC diagnosis and treatment.

Molecular and Functional Roles of MicroRNAs in the Progression of Hepatocellular Carcinoma-A Review

Liver cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths globally, of which hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the major subtype. Viral hepatitis B and C infections, alcohol abuse, and metabolic disorders are multiple risk factors for liver cirrhosis and HCC development. Although great therapeutic advances have been made in recent decades, the prognosis for HCC patients remains poor due to late diagnosis, chemotherapy failure, and frequent recurrence. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenous, non-coding RNAs that regulate various molecular biological phenomena by suppressing the translation of target messenger RNAs (mRNAs). miRNAs, which often become dysregulated in malignancy, control cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and development in HCC by promoting or suppressing tumors. Exploring the detailed mechanisms underlying miRNA-mediated HCC development and progression can likely improve the outcomes of patients with HCC. This review summarizes the molecular and functional roles of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of HCC. Further, it elucidates the utility of miRNAs as novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Current perspectives on inhibitory SMAD7 in health and disease

Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) family members play an extensive role in cellular communication that orchestrates both early development and adult tissue homeostasis. Aberrant TGF-β family signaling is associated with a pathological outcome in numerous diseases, and in-depth understanding of molecular and cellular processes could result in therapeutic benefit for patients. Canonical TGF-β signaling is mediated by receptor-regulated SMADs (R-SMADs), a single co-mediator SMAD (Co-SMAD), and inhibitory SMADs (I-SMADs). SMAD7, one of the I-SMADs, is an essential negative regulator of the pleiotropic TGF-β and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling pathways. In a negative feedback loop, SMAD7 inhibits TGF-β signaling by providing competition for TGF-β type-1 receptor (TβRI), blocking phosphorylation and activation of SMAD2. Moreover, SMAD7 recruits E3 ubiquitin SMURF ligases to the type I receptor to promote ubiquitin-mediated proteasomal degradation. In addition to its role in TGF-β and BMP signaling, SMAD7 is regulated by and implicated in a variety of other signaling pathways and functions as a mediator of crosstalk. This review is focused on SMAD7, its function in TGF-β and BMP signaling, and its role as a downstream integrator and crosstalk mediator. This crucial signaling molecule is tightly regulated by various mechanisms. We provide an overview of the ways by which SMAD7 is regulated, including noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) and post-translational modifications (PTMs). Finally, we discuss its role in diseases, such as cancer, fibrosis, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Downregulation of miR-96 suppresses the profibrogenic functions of cardiac fibroblasts induced by angiotensin II and attenuates atrial fibrosis by upregulating KLF13

Atrial fibrosis is a hallmark of structural remodeling in atrial fibrillation (AF). MicroRNA-96 (miR-96) has been reported to be associated with pulmonary fibrosis and hepatic fibrosis. Nevertheless, the role of miR-96 in atrial fibrosis is still unclear. In our study, we showed that miR-96 is upregulated in human atrial tissues from AF patients and positively correlates with collagen I and collagen III levels. Knockdown of miR-96 reduced angiotensin II (Ang-II)-induced cardiac-fibroblast proliferation, migration, and collagen production, whereas ectopic expression of miR-96 yielded opposite results. Furthermore, we demonstrated that miR-96 represses KLF13 expression, subsequently promoting Ang-II-induced proliferation, migration, and collagen production in murine cardiac fibroblasts. Moreover, we observed that the knockdown of miR-96 attenuated the Ang-II-induced atrial fibrosis in a mouse model of AF. All the findings point to a potential target for the prevention or treatment of atrial fibrosis.

Carbon black nanoparticles induce pulmonary fibrosis through NLRP3 inflammasome pathway modulated by miR-96 targeted FOXO3a

Carbon black nanoparticle (CBNP) is a core constituent of air pollutants like fine particulate matter (PM2.5) as well as a common manufactural material. It was proved to pose adverse effects on lung function and even provoke pulmonary fibrosis. However, the underlying mechanisms of CBNPs-induced pulmonary fibrosis remain unclear. The present study aimed to investigate the mechanism of fibrotic effects caused by CBNPs in rat lung and human bronchial epithelial (16HBE) cells. Forty-nine male rats were randomly subjected to 7 groups, means the 14-day exposure group (30 mg/m³), the 28-day exposure groups (5 mg/m³ and 30 mg/m³), the 90-day exposure group (30 mg/m³) and their respective controls. Rats were nose-only-inhaled CBNPs. 16HBE cells were treated with 0, 50, 100 and 200 μg/mL CBNPs respectively for 24 h. Besides, Forkhead transcription factor class O (FOXO)3a and miR-96 overexpression or suppression 16HBE cells were established to reveal relative mechanisms. Our results suggested CBNPs induced pulmonary fibrosis in time- and dose-dependent manners. CBNPs induced persisting inflammation in rat lung as observed by histopathology and cytology analyses in whole lung lavage fluid (WLL). Both in vivo and in vitro, CBNPs exposure significantly increased the expression of NLRP3 inflammasome, accompanied by the increased reactive oxygen species (ROS), decreased miR-96 and increased FOXO3a expressions dose -and time-dependently. MiR-96 overexpression or FOXO3a suppression could partially rescue the fibrotic effects through inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome. Conclusively, our research show that CBNPs-induced pulmonary fibrosis was at least partially depended on activation of NLRP3 inflammasome which modulated by miR-96 targeting FOXO3a.

The role of microRNAs in the pathogenesis, grading and treatment of hepatic fibrosis in schistosomiasis

Schistosomiasis is a prevalent parasitic disease worldwide. The main pathological changes of hepatosplenic schistosomiasis are hepatic granuloma and fibrosis due to worm eggs. Portal hypertension and ascites induced by hepatic fibrosis are usually the main causes of death in patients with chronic hepatosplenic schistosomiasis. Currently, no effective vaccine exists for preventing schistosome infections. For quite a long time, praziquantel (PZQ) was widely used for the treatment of schistosomiasis and has shown benefit in treating liver fibrosis. However, drug resistance and chemical toxicity from PZQ are being increasingly reported in recent years; therefore, new and effective strategies for treating schistosomiasis-induced hepatic fibrosis are urgently needed. MicroRNA (miRNA), a non-coding RNA, has been proved to be associated with the development of many human diseases, including schistosomiasis. In this review, we present a balanced and comprehensive view of the role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis, grading, and treatment of schistosomiasis-associated hepatic fibrosis. The multiple regulatory roles of miRNAs, such as promoting or inhibiting the development of liver pathology in murine schistosomiasis are also discussed in depth. Additionally, miRNAs may serve as candidate biomarkers for diagnosing liver pathology of schistosomiasis and as novel therapeutic targets for treating schistosomiasis-associated hepatic fibrosis.

High-Throughput Quantification of In Vivo Adeno-Associated Virus Transduction with Barcoded Non-Coding RNAs

Recombinant adeno-associated viruses (rAAVs) have become favorable gene delivery vehicles for expressing therapeutic transgenes. Capsid engineering efforts to produce novel AAVs with improved transduction efficiencies, unique tissue specificities, and reduced host immunities are a direct response to the high demand for treatment needs that preexisting rAAVs cannot currently fulfill. New AAV capsids discovered by directed evolution methods, in silico design, or from natural proviral sequences ultimately require extensive characterization in relevant in vivo models. Consequently, quantitative screening of candidate capsid libraries now requires reliable high-throughput sequencing approaches. In this study, we have developed a vector/transgene tracking system that employs the indexing of a non-coding RNA. Specifically, a barcoded Tough Decoy (bcTuD) that express highly stable RNA transcripts that can be used as readouts for transduction efficiency. The pseudo-hairpin structure of the bcTuD contains a variable region that is amenable to barcode insertion, which can be detected by target amplicon sequencing. The described approach, named AAV-bcTuD screening, offers a new alternative for in vivo assessment of rAAV that can accurately quantify vector genomes and transcript abundances in tissues, as exampled by the demonstration in liver and brain infections. Proof-of-concept is provided to show that vector genome and transcript detection in tissues with this method is accurate and consistent for a vector dose range of upwards to four logs in a mixed vector injection, showing that this technique is robust, sensitive, and applicable for multiplexed screening of capsid performance in vivo.