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Hamada M, Varkoly KS, Riyadh O, Beladi R, Munuswamy-Ramanujam G, Rawls A, Wilson-Rawls J, Chen H, McFadden G, Lucas AR. Urokinase-Type Plasminogen Activator Receptor (uPAR) in Inflammation and Disease: A Unique Inflammatory Pathway Activator. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1167. [PMID: 38927374 PMCID: PMC11201033 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12061167] [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: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) is a unique protease binding receptor, now recognized as a key regulator of inflammation. Initially, uPA/uPAR was considered thrombolytic (clot-dissolving); however, recent studies have demonstrated its predominant immunomodulatory functions in inflammation and cancer. The uPA/uPAR complex has a multifaceted central role in both normal physiological and also pathological responses. uPAR is expressed as a glycophosphatidylinositol (GPI)-linked receptor interacting with vitronectin, integrins, G protein-coupled receptors, and growth factor receptors within a large lipid raft. Through protein-to-protein interactions, cell surface uPAR modulates intracellular signaling, altering cellular adhesion and migration. The uPA/uPAR also modifies extracellular activity, activating plasminogen to form plasmin, which breaks down fibrin, dissolving clots and activating matrix metalloproteinases that lyse connective tissue, allowing immune and cancer cell invasion and releasing growth factors. uPAR is now recognized as a biomarker for inflammatory diseases and cancer; uPAR and soluble uPAR fragments (suPAR) are increased in viral sepsis (COVID-19), inflammatory bowel disease, and metastasis. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the structure, function, and current studies examining uPAR and suPAR as diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets. Understanding uPAR is central to developing diagnostic markers and the ongoing development of antibody, small-molecule, nanogel, and virus-derived immune-modulating treatments that target uPAR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Hamada
- College of Medicine, Kansas City University, 1750 Independence Ave, Kansas City, MO 64106, USA; (M.H.); (O.R.)
| | - Kyle Steven Varkoly
- Department of Internal Medicine, McLaren Macomb Hospital, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, 1000 Harrington St., Mt Clemens, MI 48043, USA
| | - Omer Riyadh
- College of Medicine, Kansas City University, 1750 Independence Ave, Kansas City, MO 64106, USA; (M.H.); (O.R.)
| | - Roxana Beladi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ascension Providence Hospital, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, 16001 W Nine Mile Rd, Southfield, MI 48075, USA;
| | - Ganesh Munuswamy-Ramanujam
- Molecular Biology and Immunobiology Division, Interdisciplinary Institute of Indian System of Medicine, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur 603203, India;
| | - Alan Rawls
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, 427 E Tyler Mall, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA; (A.R.); (J.W.-R.)
| | - Jeanne Wilson-Rawls
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, 427 E Tyler Mall, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA; (A.R.); (J.W.-R.)
| | - Hao Chen
- Department of Tumor Center, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730030, China;
| | - Grant McFadden
- Center for Personalized Diagnostics, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, 727 E Tyler St., Tempe, AZ 85287, USA;
| | - Alexandra R. Lucas
- Center for Personalized Diagnostics, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, 727 E Tyler St., Tempe, AZ 85287, USA;
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Kzar Al-Shukri HH, Abdul-Jabbar Ali S, Al-Akkam KA, Hjazi A, Rasulova I, Mustafa YF, Al-Saidi DN, Alasheqi MQ, Alawadi A, Alsaalamy A. The role of exo-miRNA in diagnosis and treatment of cancers, focusing on effective miRNAs in colorectal cancer. Cell Biol Int 2024; 48:280-289. [PMID: 38225535 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.12122] [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: 09/24/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Small extracellular (EV) particles known as exosomes are released by a variety of cell types, including immune system cells, stem cells, and tumor cells. They are regarded as a subgroup of EVs and have a diameter that ranges from 30 to 150 nm. Proteins, lipids, nucleic acids (including RNA and DNA), and different bioactive compounds are among the wide range of biomolecules that make up the cargo of exosomes. Exosomes are crucial for intercellular communication because they let cells share information and signaling chemicals. They are involved in various physiological and pathological processes, including immune responses, tissue regeneration, cancer progression, and neurodegenerative diseases. In conclusion, it is essential to continue research into exosome-based cancer medicines to advance understanding, improve treatment plans, create personalized tactics, ensure safety, and speed up clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamzah H Kzar Al-Shukri
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Medicine, Al-Qasim Green University, Babylon, Iraq
| | | | | | - Ahmed Hjazi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
| | - Irodakhon Rasulova
- School of Humanities, Natural & Social Sciences, New Uzbekistan University, Uzbekistan
- Department of Public Health, Samarkand State Medical University, Samarkand, Uzbekistan
| | - Yasser Fakri Mustafa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Mosul, Mosul, Iraq
| | - Dahlia N Al-Saidi
- Department of Medical Laboratories Technology, AL-Nisour University College, Baghdad, Iraq
| | | | - Ahmed Alawadi
- College of Technical Engineering, The Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq
- College of Technical Engineering, The Islamic University of Al Diwaniyah, Al Diwaniyah, Iraq
- College of Technical Engineering, The Islamic University of Babylon, Babylon, Iraq
| | - Ali Alsaalamy
- College of Technical Engineering, Imam Ja'afar Al-Sadiq University, Kirkuk, Iraq
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Zenner ML, Kirkpatrick B, Leonardo TR, Schlicht MJ, Saldana AC, Loitz C, Valyi‐Nagy K, Maienschein‐Cline M, Gann PH, Abern M, Nonn L. Prostate-derived circulating microRNAs add prognostic value to prostate cancer risk calculators. JOURNAL OF EXTRACELLULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 2:e122. [PMID: 38496750 PMCID: PMC10938556 DOI: 10.1002/jex2.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of malignancy-related deaths among American men. Active surveillance is a safe option for many men with less aggressive disease, yet definitively determining low-risk cancer is challenging with biopsy alone. Herein, we sought to identify prostate-derived microRNAs in patient sera and serum extracellular vesicles, and determine if those microRNAs improve upon the current clinical risk calculators for prostate cancer prognosis before and after biopsy. Prostate-derived intracellular and extracellular vesicle-contained microRNAs were identified by small RNA sequencing of prostate cancer patient explants and primary cells. Abundant microRNAs were included in a custom microRNA PCR panel that was queried in whole serum and serum extracellular vesicles from a diverse cohort of men diagnosed with prostate cancer. The levels of these circulating microRNAs significantly differed between indolent and aggressive disease and improved the area under the curve for pretreatment nomograms of prostate cancer disease risk. The microRNAs within the extracellular vesicles were the most informative and improved the AUC to 0.739 compared to the existing nomogram alone, which has an AUC of 0.561. The microRNAs in the whole serum improved it to AUC 0.675. In summary, quantifying microRNAs circulating in extracellular vesicles is a clinically feasible assay that may provide additional information for assessing prostate cancer risk stratification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan L. Zenner
- Department of PathologyUniversity of Illinois at ChicagoChicagoIllinoisUSA
- University of Illinois Cancer CenterChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Brenna Kirkpatrick
- Department of PathologyUniversity of Illinois at ChicagoChicagoIllinoisUSA
- University of Illinois Cancer CenterChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Trevor R. Leonardo
- Department of Microbiology and ImmunologyUniversity of Illinois ChicagoChicagoIllinoisUSA
- Department of Periodontics, Center for Wound Healing and Tissue RegenerationUniversity of Illinois ChicagoChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | | | - Alejandra Cavazos Saldana
- Department of PathologyUniversity of Illinois at ChicagoChicagoIllinoisUSA
- University of Illinois Cancer CenterChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Candice Loitz
- Department of PathologyUniversity of Illinois at ChicagoChicagoIllinoisUSA
- University of Illinois Cancer CenterChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Klara Valyi‐Nagy
- Department of PathologyUniversity of Illinois at ChicagoChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Mark Maienschein‐Cline
- Research Resource Core BioinformaticsUniversity of Illinois at ChicagoChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Peter H. Gann
- Department of PathologyUniversity of Illinois at ChicagoChicagoIllinoisUSA
- University of Illinois Cancer CenterChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Michael Abern
- Department of UrologyUniversity of Illinois at ChicagoChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Larisa Nonn
- Department of PathologyUniversity of Illinois at ChicagoChicagoIllinoisUSA
- University of Illinois Cancer CenterChicagoIllinoisUSA
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4
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Sailer V, von Amsberg G, Duensing S, Kirfel J, Lieb V, Metzger E, Offermann A, Pantel K, Schuele R, Taubert H, Wach S, Perner S, Werner S, Aigner A. Experimental in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo models in prostate cancer research. Nat Rev Urol 2023; 20:158-178. [PMID: 36451039 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-022-00677-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Androgen deprivation therapy has a central role in the treatment of advanced prostate cancer, often causing initial tumour remission before increasing independence from signal transduction mechanisms of the androgen receptor and then eventual disease progression. Novel treatment approaches are urgently needed, but only a fraction of promising drug candidates from the laboratory will eventually reach clinical approval, highlighting the demand for critical assessment of current preclinical models. Such models include standard, genetically modified and patient-derived cell lines, spheroid and organoid culture models, scaffold and hydrogel cultures, tissue slices, tumour xenograft models, patient-derived xenograft and circulating tumour cell eXplant models as well as transgenic and knockout mouse models. These models need to account for inter-patient and intra-patient heterogeneity, the acquisition of primary or secondary resistance, the interaction of tumour cells with their microenvironment, which make crucial contributions to tumour progression and resistance, as well as the effects of the 3D tissue network on drug penetration, bioavailability and efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena Sailer
- Institute for Pathology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Gunhild von Amsberg
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, University Cancer Center Hamburg Eppendorf and Martini-Klinik, Prostate Cancer Center, University Hospital Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Duensing
- Section of Molecular Urooncology, Department of Urology, University Hospital Heidelberg and National Center for Tumour Diseases, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jutta Kirfel
- Institute for Pathology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Verena Lieb
- Research Division Molecular Urology, Department of Urology and Paediatric Urology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Eric Metzger
- Department of Urology, Center for Clinical Research, University of Freiburg Medical Center, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Anne Offermann
- Institute for Pathology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Klaus Pantel
- Institute for Tumour Biology, Center for Experimental Medicine, University Clinics Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Mildred-Scheel-Nachwuchszentrum HaTRiCs4, University Cancer Center Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Roland Schuele
- Department of Urology, Center for Clinical Research, University of Freiburg Medical Center, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Helge Taubert
- Research Division Molecular Urology, Department of Urology and Paediatric Urology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sven Wach
- Research Division Molecular Urology, Department of Urology and Paediatric Urology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sven Perner
- University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
- Pathology, Research Center Borstel, Leibniz Lung Center, Borstel, Germany
| | - Stefan Werner
- Institute for Tumour Biology, Center for Experimental Medicine, University Clinics Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Mildred-Scheel-Nachwuchszentrum HaTRiCs4, University Cancer Center Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Achim Aigner
- Clinical Pharmacology, Rudolf-Boehm-Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Leipzig, Medical Faculty, Leipzig, Germany.
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Alfieri M, Meo L, Ragno P. Posttranscriptional Regulation of the Plasminogen Activation System by Non-Coding RNA in Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24020962. [PMID: 36674481 PMCID: PMC9860977 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24020962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Various species of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) may act as functional molecules regulating diverse biological processes. In cancer cell biology, ncRNAs include RNAs that regulate the expression of oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes through various mechanisms. The urokinase (uPA)-mediated plasminogen activation system (PAS) includes uPA, its inhibitors PAI-1 and PAI-2 and its specific cellular receptor uPAR; their increased expression represents a negative prognostic factor in several cancers. Here, we will briefly describe the main uPA-mediated PAS components and ncRNA species; then, we will review more recent evidence of the roles that ncRNAs may play in regulating the expression and functions of uPA-mediated PAS components in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariaevelina Alfieri
- Clinical Pathology, Pausilipon Hospital, A.O.R.N Santobono-Pausilipon, 80123 Naples, Italy
| | - Luigia Meo
- Department of Chemistry and Biology, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 132, 84084 Fisciano, Italy
| | - Pia Ragno
- Department of Chemistry and Biology, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 132, 84084 Fisciano, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-089-969456
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Resurreccion EP, Fong KW. The Integration of Metabolomics with Other Omics: Insights into Understanding Prostate Cancer. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12060488. [PMID: 35736421 PMCID: PMC9230859 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12060488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Our understanding of prostate cancer (PCa) has shifted from solely caused by a few genetic aberrations to a combination of complex biochemical dysregulations with the prostate metabolome at its core. The role of metabolomics in analyzing the pathophysiology of PCa is indispensable. However, to fully elucidate real-time complex dysregulation in prostate cells, an integrated approach based on metabolomics and other omics is warranted. Individually, genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics are robust, but they are not enough to achieve a holistic view of PCa tumorigenesis. This review is the first of its kind to focus solely on the integration of metabolomics with multi-omic platforms in PCa research, including a detailed emphasis on the metabolomic profile of PCa. The authors intend to provide researchers in the field with a comprehensive knowledge base in PCa metabolomics and offer perspectives on overcoming limitations of the tool to guide future point-of-care applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleazer P. Resurreccion
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA;
| | - Ka-wing Fong
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA;
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-859-562-3455
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7
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Alfano D, Franco P, Stoppelli MP. Modulation of Cellular Function by the Urokinase Receptor Signalling: A Mechanistic View. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:818616. [PMID: 35493073 PMCID: PMC9045800 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.818616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR or CD87) is a glycosyl-phosphatidyl-inositol anchored (GPI) membrane protein. The uPAR primary ligand is the serine protease urokinase (uPA), converting plasminogen into plasmin, a broad spectrum protease, active on most extracellular matrix components. Besides uPA, the uPAR binds specifically also to the matrix protein vitronectin and, therefore, is regarded also as an adhesion receptor. Complex formation of the uPAR with diverse transmembrane proteins, including integrins, formyl peptide receptors, G protein-coupled receptors and epidermal growth factor receptor results in intracellular signalling. Thus, the uPAR is a multifunctional receptor coordinating surface-associated pericellular proteolysis and signal transduction, thereby affecting physiological and pathological mechanisms. The uPAR-initiated signalling leads to remarkable cellular effects, that include increased cell migration, adhesion, survival, proliferation and invasion. Although this is beyond the scope of this review, the uPA/uPAR system is of great interest to cancer research, as it is associated to aggressive cancers and poor patient survival. Increasing evidence links the uPA/uPAR axis to epithelial to mesenchymal transition, a highly dynamic process, by which epithelial cells can convert into a mesenchymal phenotype. Furthermore, many reports indicate that the uPAR is involved in the maintenance of the stem-like phenotype and in the differentiation process of different cell types. Moreover, the levels of anchor-less, soluble form of uPAR, respond to a variety of inflammatory stimuli, including tumorigenesis and viral infections. Finally, the role of uPAR in virus infection has received increasing attention, in view of the Covid-19 pandemics and new information is becoming available. In this review, we provide a mechanistic perspective, via the detailed examination of consolidated and recent studies on the cellular responses to the multiple uPAR activities.
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Mirna M, Paar V, Topf A, Kraus T, Sotlar K, Aigner A, Ewe A, Watzinger S, Podesser BK, Hackl M, Pistulli R, Hoppe UC, Kiss A, Lichtenauer M. A new player in the game: treatment with antagomiR-21a-5p significantly attenuates histological and echocardiographic effects of experimental autoimmune myocarditis. Cardiovasc Res 2022; 118:556-572. [PMID: 33483746 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvab015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Myocarditis is associated with formidable symptoms and increased risk of adverse outcomes. Current approaches mostly rely on symptomatic treatments, warranting novel concepts for clinical practice. The aim of this study was to investigate the microRNA (miRNA) expression profile of Balb/c mice with experimental autoimmune myocarditis (EAM), choose a representative miRNA to antagonize after review of available literature and test its effects on myocardial inflammation in vitro and in vivo. METHODS AND RESULTS Phase 1: EAM was induced in 12 male Balb/c mice, 10 animals served as controls. After sacrifice, next-generation sequencing (NGS) of the miRNA expression profile was performed. Based on these results, H9C2 cells and human ventricular cardiac fibroblasts exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were treated with the selected candidate antagomiR-21a-5p. Phase 2: EAM was induced in 48 animals. Thereof, 24 animals were either treated with antagomiR-21a-5p or negative control oligonucleotide in a nanoparticle formulation. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) was performed on Days 0, 7, 14, and 21. Histopathological examination was performed after sacrifice. Phase 1: EAM resulted in a significant up-regulation of 27 miRNAs, including miR-21a-5p (log2FC: 2.23, adj. P = 0.0026). Transfection with antagomiR-21a-5p resulted in a significant reduction of TNFα, IL-6, and collagen I in vitro. Phase 2: Treatment with antagomiR-21a-5p, formulated in polymeric nanoparticles for systemic injection, significantly attenuated myocardial inflammation (P = 0.001) and fibrosis (P = 0.013), as well as myocardial 'hypertrophy' on TTE. CONCLUSIONS Silencing of miR-21a-5p results in a significant reduction of the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in vitro, as well as a significant attenuation of inflammation, fibrosis and echocardiographic effects of EAM in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moritz Mirna
- Department of Cardiology, University Clinic of Internal Medicine II, Paracelsus Medical University of Salzburg, Muellner Hauptstrasse 48, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Vera Paar
- Department of Cardiology, University Clinic of Internal Medicine II, Paracelsus Medical University of Salzburg, Muellner Hauptstrasse 48, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Albert Topf
- Department of Cardiology, University Clinic of Internal Medicine II, Paracelsus Medical University of Salzburg, Muellner Hauptstrasse 48, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Theo Kraus
- University Institute of Pathology, Paracelsus Medical University of Salzburg, Muellner Hauptstrasse 48, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Karl Sotlar
- University Institute of Pathology, Paracelsus Medical University of Salzburg, Muellner Hauptstrasse 48, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Achim Aigner
- Rudolf-Boehm-Institut for Pharmacology und Toxicology, Clinical Pharmacology, University of Leipzig, Faculty of Medicine, Haertelstraße 16-18, 04107 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Alexander Ewe
- Rudolf-Boehm-Institut for Pharmacology und Toxicology, Clinical Pharmacology, University of Leipzig, Faculty of Medicine, Haertelstraße 16-18, 04107 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Simon Watzinger
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cardiovascular Research at Center for Biomedical Research, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringerguertel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Bruno K Podesser
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cardiovascular Research at Center for Biomedical Research, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringerguertel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Rudin Pistulli
- Department of Cardiology I-Coronary and Peripheral Vascular Disease, Heart Failure, University Hospital Muenster, Albert-Schweitzer-Strasse 33, 48149 Muenster, Germany
| | - Uta C Hoppe
- Department of Cardiology, University Clinic of Internal Medicine II, Paracelsus Medical University of Salzburg, Muellner Hauptstrasse 48, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Attila Kiss
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cardiovascular Research at Center for Biomedical Research, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringerguertel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Lichtenauer
- Department of Cardiology, University Clinic of Internal Medicine II, Paracelsus Medical University of Salzburg, Muellner Hauptstrasse 48, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
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Lv T, Zhao Y, Jiang X, Yuan H, Wang H, Cui X, Xu J, Zhao J, Wang J. uPAR: An Essential Factor for Tumor Development. J Cancer 2021; 12:7026-7040. [PMID: 34729105 PMCID: PMC8558663 DOI: 10.7150/jca.62281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumorigenesis is closely related to the loss of control of many genes. Urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR), a glycolipid-anchored protein on the cell surface, is controlled by many factors in tumorigenesis and is expressed in many tumor tissues. In this review, we summarize the regulatory effects of the uPAR signaling pathway on processes and factors related to tumor progression, such as tumor cell proliferation, adhesion, metastasis, glycolysis, tumor microenvironment and angiogenesis. Overall, the evidence accumulated to date suggests that uPAR induction by tumor progression may be one of the most important factors affecting therapeutic efficacy. An improved understanding of the interactions between uPAR and its coreceptors in cancer will provide critical biomolecular information that may help to better predict the disease course and response to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Lv
- College of Biological Resource and Food Engineering, Qujing Normal University, Qujing, Yunnan, China 655011.,Key Laboratory of Yunnan Province Universities of the Diversity and Ecological Adaptive Evolution for Animals and Plants on YunGui Plateau, Qujing Normal University, Qujing, China 655011
| | - Ying Zhao
- College of Biological Resource and Food Engineering, Qujing Normal University, Qujing, Yunnan, China 655011
| | - Xinni Jiang
- School of Biological Sciences and Technology, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, China 610500
| | - Hemei Yuan
- College of Biological Resource and Food Engineering, Qujing Normal University, Qujing, Yunnan, China 655011
| | - Haibo Wang
- College of Biological Resource and Food Engineering, Qujing Normal University, Qujing, Yunnan, China 655011.,Key Laboratory of Yunnan Province Universities of the Diversity and Ecological Adaptive Evolution for Animals and Plants on YunGui Plateau, Qujing Normal University, Qujing, China 655011
| | - Xuelin Cui
- College of Biological Resource and Food Engineering, Qujing Normal University, Qujing, Yunnan, China 655011
| | - Jiashun Xu
- College of Biological Resource and Food Engineering, Qujing Normal University, Qujing, Yunnan, China 655011
| | - Jingye Zhao
- College of Biological Resource and Food Engineering, Qujing Normal University, Qujing, Yunnan, China 655011
| | - Jianlin Wang
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Qujing Normal University, Qujing, Yunnan, China 655011
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10
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Oh-Hohenhorst SJ, Lange T. Role of Metastasis-Related microRNAs in Prostate Cancer Progression and Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13174492. [PMID: 34503302 PMCID: PMC8431208 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13174492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In this review article we summarize the current literature on the pro- and anti-metastatic roles of distinct microRNAs in prostate cancer with a particular focus on their impact on invasion, migration and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Moreover, we give a brief overview on how this knowledge developed so far into novel therapeutic approaches to target metastatic prostate cancer. Abstract Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most prevalent cancer types in males and the consequences of its distant metastatic deposits are the leading cause of PCa mortality. Therefore, identifying the causes and molecular mechanisms of hematogenous metastasis formation is of considerable clinical importance for the future development of improved therapeutic approaches. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level by targeting messenger RNAs. Numerous studies have identified miRNAs as promotors or inhibitors of metastasis and revealed, in part, their targeting pathways in PCa. Because miRNAs are remarkably stable and can be detected in both tissue and body fluid, its potential as specific biomarkers for metastasis and therapeutic response is also currently under preclinical evaluation. In the present review, we focus on miRNAs that are supposed to initiate or suppress metastasis by targeting several key mRNAs in PCa. Metastasis-suppressing miRNAs include miR-33a-5p, miR-34, miR-132 and miR-212, miR-145, the miR-200 family (incl. miR-141-3p), miR-204-5p, miR-532-3p, miR-335, miR-543, miR-505-3p, miR 19a 3p, miR-802, miR-940, and miR-3622a. Metastasis-promoting RNAs, such as miR-9, miR-181a, miR-210-3, miR-454, miR-671-5p, have been shown to increase the metastatic potential of PCa cells. Other metastasis-related miRNAs with conflicting reports in the literature are also discussed (miR-21 and miR-186). Finally, we summarize the recent developments of miRNA-based therapeutic approaches, as well as current limitations in PCa. Taken together, the metastasis-controlling miRNAs provide the potential to be integrated in the strategy of diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of metastatic PCa. Nevertheless, there is still a lack of consistency between certain miRNA signatures and reproducibility, which impedes clinical implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su Jung Oh-Hohenhorst
- Martini-Klinik, Prostate Cancer Centre, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany;
- Institute of Anatomy and Experimental Morphology, University Cancer Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CRCHUM) et Institut du Cancer de Montréal (ICM), Montreal, QC H2X 0A9, Canada
| | - Tobias Lange
- Institute of Anatomy and Experimental Morphology, University Cancer Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
- Correspondence:
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LncRNA CARMN overexpression promotes prognosis and chemosensitivity of triple negative breast cancer via acting as miR143-3p host gene and inhibiting DNA replication. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2021; 40:205. [PMID: 34162418 PMCID: PMC8220716 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-02015-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a subtype of breast cancer with poor prognosis and lack of effective treatment target. Here we screened differentially expressed lncRNAs through bioinformatics analysis and identified CARMN as a downregulated lncRNA which is lowest expressed in TNBC. We aimed to identify the potential role and molecular mechanisms of CARMN in TNBC. METHODS Predictive value of CARMN was explored in breast cancer cohorts. TNBC cell lines with CARMN overexpression or CARMN silence and were used for in vitro and in vivo experiments. RNA-seq of CARMN overexpressed cells was performed for exploring downstream of CARMN. RESULTS CARMN is downregulated at different phase of malignant transformation of breast tissue. CARMN can predict both better prognosis and higher response rate of cisplatin-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy in breast cancer. A nomogram is built to predict cisplatin-based chemotherapy response in breast cancer. Through in vitro and in vivo studies, we confirmed CARMN can also inhibit tumorigenesis and enhance sensitivity to cisplatin in TNBC cells. RNA-seq and further experiments revealed CARMN can inhibit DNA replication. MCM5, an important DNA replication initiation factor, is the most downregulated gene in DNA replication pathway following CARMN overexpression. We confirmed CARMN can produce miR143-3p from its exon5 which is DROSHA and DICER dependent, resulting binding and decrease of MCM5. Moreover, suppressing miR143-3p can weaken function of CARMN in suppressing tumorigenesis and promoting chemosensitivity. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicated lncRNA CARMN is a predictive biomarker of better prognosis and enhanced cisplatin sensitivity in TNBC. CARMN is the host gene of miR143-3p which downregulates MCM5, causing inhibited DNA replication.
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The Urokinase Receptor: A Multifunctional Receptor in Cancer Cell Biology. Therapeutic Implications. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22084111. [PMID: 33923400 PMCID: PMC8073738 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22084111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis is a key event in several biological processes; proteolysis must be tightly controlled because its improper activation leads to dramatic consequences. Deregulation of proteolytic activity characterizes many pathological conditions, including cancer. The plasminogen activation (PA) system plays a key role in cancer; it includes the serine-protease urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA). uPA binds to a specific cellular receptor (uPAR), which concentrates proteolytic activity at the cell surface, thus supporting cell migration. However, a large body of evidence clearly showed uPAR involvement in the biology of cancer cell independently of the proteolytic activity of its ligand. In this review we will first describe this multifunctional molecule and then we will discuss how uPAR can sustain most of cancer hallmarks, which represent the biological capabilities acquired during the multistep cancer development. Finally, we will illustrate the main data available in the literature on uPAR as a cancer biomarker and a molecular target in anti-cancer therapy.
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13
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Arrighetti N, Beretta GL. miRNAs as Therapeutic Tools and Biomarkers for Prostate Cancer. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:380. [PMID: 33805590 PMCID: PMC7999286 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13030380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is the fifth cause of tumor-related deaths in man worldwide. Despite the considerable improvement in the clinical management of PCa, several limitations emerged both in the screening for early diagnosis and in the medical treatment. The use of prostate-specific antigen (PSA)-based screening resulted in patients' overtreatment and the standard therapy of patients suffering from locally advanced/metastatic tumors (e.g., radical prostatectomy, radiotherapy, and androgen deprivation therapy) showed time-limited efficacy with patients undergoing progression toward the lethal metastatic castration-resistant PCa (mCRPC). Although valuable alternative therapeutic options have been recently proposed (e.g., docetaxel, cabazitaxel, abiraterone, enzalutamide, and sipuleucel-T), mCRPC remains incurable. Based on this background, there is an urgent need to identify new and more accurate prostate-specific biomarkers for PCa diagnosis and prognosis and to develop innovative medical approaches to counteract mCRPC. In this context, microRNA (miRNAs) emerged as potential biomarkers in prostate tissues and biological fluids and appeared to be promising therapeutic targets/tools for cancer therapy. Here we overview the recent literature and summarize the achievements of using miRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets/tools for fighting PCa.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giovanni Luca Beretta
- Molecular Pharmacology Unit, Department of Applied Research and Technological Development, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, 20133 Milan, Italy;
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Toden S, Zumwalt TJ, Goel A. Non-coding RNAs and potential therapeutic targeting in cancer. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2021; 1875:188491. [PMID: 33316377 PMCID: PMC7856203 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2020.188491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Recent advances have begun to clarify the physiological and pathological roles of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in various diseases, including cancer. Among these, microRNAs (miRNAs) have been the most studied and have emerged as key players that are involved in the regulation of important growth regulatory pathways in cancer pathogenesis. The ability of a single ncRNA to modulate the expression of multiple downstream gene targets and associated pathways, have provided a rationale to pursue them for therapeutic drug development in cancer. In this context, early data from pre-clinical studies have demonstrated that synthetic miRNA-based therapeutic molecules, along with various protective coating approaches, has allowed for their efficient delivery and anti-tumor activity. In fact, some of the miRNA-based cancer therapeutic strategies have shown promising results even in early-phase human clinical trials. While the enthusiasm for ncRNA-based cancer therapeutics continue to evolve, the field is still in the midst of unraveling a more precise understanding of the molecular mechanisms and specific downstream therapeutic targets of other lesser studied ncRNAs such as the long-non-coding RNAs, transfer RNAs, circular RNAs, small nucleolar RNAs, and piwi-interacting RNAs. This review article provides the current state of knowledge and the evolving principles for ncRNA-based therapeutic approaches in cancer, and specifically highlights the importance of data to date and the approaches that are being developed to overcome the challenges associated with their delivery and mitigating the off-target effects in human cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shusuke Toden
- Center for Gastrointestinal Research; Center for Translational Genomics and Oncology, Baylor Scott & White Research Institute and Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center, Baylor Research Institute and Sammons Cancer Center, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Timothy J Zumwalt
- Center for Gastrointestinal Research; Center for Translational Genomics and Oncology, Baylor Scott & White Research Institute and Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center, Baylor Research Institute and Sammons Cancer Center, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Ajay Goel
- Center for Gastrointestinal Research; Center for Translational Genomics and Oncology, Baylor Scott & White Research Institute and Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center, Baylor Research Institute and Sammons Cancer Center, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA; Department of Molecular Diagnostics and Experimental Therapeutics, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, USA.
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Zenner ML, Baumann B, Nonn L. Oncogenic and tumor-suppressive microRNAs in prostate cancer. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 10:50-59. [PMID: 33043165 DOI: 10.1016/j.coemr.2020.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs are known to be dysregulated in prostate cancer. These small noncoding RNAs can function as biomarkers and are involved in the biology of prostate cancer. The canonical mechanism for microRNAs is post-transcription regulation of gene expression via binding to the 3' untranslated region of mRNAs, resulting in RNA degradation and/or translational repression. Thus, oncogenic microRNAs, also known as oncomiRs, often have high expression in prostate cancer and target the mRNAs of tumor suppressors. Conversely, tumor-suppressive microRNAs have reduced expression in cancer and typically target oncogenes. Some microRNAs function outside the classical mechanism and serve to stabilize their mRNA targets. Herein, we review contemporary studies that demonstrate oncogenic and tumor-suppressive activity of microRNAs in prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan L Zenner
- Department of Pathology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
| | - Bethany Baumann
- Department of Pathology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
| | - Larisa Nonn
- Department of Pathology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States.,University of Illinois Cancer Center, Chicago, IL, 60612, United States
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Eckstein M, Sailer V, Nielsen BS, Wittenberg T, Wiesmann V, Lieb V, Nolte E, Hartmann A, Kristiansen G, Wernert N, Wullich B, Taubert H, Wach S. Co-staining of microRNAs and their target proteins by miRNA in situ hybridization and immunohistofluorescence on prostate cancer tissue microarrays. J Transl Med 2019; 99:1527-1534. [PMID: 31186527 DOI: 10.1038/s41374-019-0251-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Revised: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The co-expression of miRNAs and their target proteins was studied on tissue microarrays from different prostate cancer (PCa) patients. PCa of primary Gleason pattern 4 (GP4), lymph node metastases of GP4, distant metastases, and normal tissue from the transitional and peripheral zones were co-stained by fluorescent miRNA in situ hybridization (miRisH) and protein immunohistofluorescence (IHF). The miRNAs and corresponding target proteins include the pairs miR-145/ERG, miR-143/uPAR, and miR-375/SEC23A. The fluorescence-stained and scanned tissue microarrays (TMAs) were evaluated by experienced uropathologists. The pair miR-145/ERG showed an exclusive staining for miR-145 in the nuclei of stromal cells, both in tumor and normal tissue, and for ERG in the cytoplasm with/without co-expression in the nucleus of tumor cells. The pair miR-143/uPAR revealed a clear distinction between miR-143 in the nuclei of stromal cells and uPAR staining in the cytoplasm of tumor cells. Metastases (lymph node and distant) however, showed tumor cells with cytoplasmic staining for miR-143/uPAR. In normal tissues, beside the nuclei of the stroma cells, gland cells could also express miR-143 and uPAR in the cytoplasm. miR-375 showed particular staining in the nucleoli of GP4 and metastatic samples, suggesting that nucleoli play a special role in sequestering proteins and miRNAs. Combined miRisH/IHF allows for the study of miRNA expression patterns and their target proteins at the single-cell level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Eckstein
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Erlangen, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Verena Sailer
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine of Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Veit Wiesmann
- Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits IIS, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Verena Lieb
- Department of Urology and Pediatric Urology, University Hospital Erlangen, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Elke Nolte
- Department of Urology and Pediatric Urology, University Hospital Erlangen, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Arndt Hartmann
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Erlangen, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Nicolas Wernert
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Bernd Wullich
- Department of Urology and Pediatric Urology, University Hospital Erlangen, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Helge Taubert
- Department of Urology and Pediatric Urology, University Hospital Erlangen, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Sven Wach
- Department of Urology and Pediatric Urology, University Hospital Erlangen, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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Lai X, Eberhardt M, Schmitz U, Vera J. Systems biology-based investigation of cooperating microRNAs as monotherapy or adjuvant therapy in cancer. Nucleic Acids Res 2019; 47:7753-7766. [PMID: 31340025 PMCID: PMC6735922 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkz638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Revised: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short, noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression by suppressing mRNA translation and reducing mRNA stability. A miRNA can potentially bind many mRNAs, thereby affecting the expression of oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes as well as the activity of whole pathways. The promise of miRNA therapeutics in cancer is to harness this evolutionarily conserved mechanism for the coordinated regulation of gene expression, and thus restoring a normal cell phenotype. However, the promiscuous binding of miRNAs can provoke unwanted off-target effects, which are usually caused by high-dose single-miRNA treatments. Thus, it is desirable to develop miRNA therapeutics with increased specificity and efficacy. To achieve that, we propose the concept of miRNA cooperativity in order to exert synergistic repression on target genes, thus lowering the required total amount of miRNAs. We first review miRNA therapies in clinical application. Next, we summarize the knowledge on the molecular mechanism and biological function of miRNA cooperativity and discuss its application in cancer therapies. We then propose and discuss a systems biology approach to investigate miRNA cooperativity for the clinical setting. Altogether, we point out the potential of miRNA cooperativity to reduce off-target effects and to complement conventional, targeted, or immune-based therapies for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Lai
- Laboratory of Systems Tumor Immunology, Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, 91052 Erlangen, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91052 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Martin Eberhardt
- Laboratory of Systems Tumor Immunology, Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, 91052 Erlangen, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91052 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ulf Schmitz
- Computational BioMedicine Laboratory Centenary Institute, The University of Sydney, 2006 Camperdown, Australia
- Gene & Stem Cell Therapy Program Centenary Institute, The University of Sydney, 2006 Camperdown, Australia
- Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, 2006 Camperdown, Australia
| | - Julio Vera
- Laboratory of Systems Tumor Immunology, Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, 91052 Erlangen, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91052 Erlangen, Germany
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