1
|
Farazi MM, Jafarinejad-Farsangi S, Miri Karam Z, Gholizadeh M, Hadadi M, Yari A. Circular RNAs: Epigenetic regulators of PTEN expression and function in cancer. Gene 2024; 916:148442. [PMID: 38582262 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.148442] [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: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Epigenetic regulation of gene expression, without altering the DNA sequence, is involved in many normal cellular growth and division events, as well as diseases such as cancer. Epigenetics is no longer limited to DNA methylation, and histone modification, but regulatory non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) also play an important role in epigenetics. Circular RNAs (circRNAs), single-stranded RNAs without 3' and 5' ends, have recently emerged as a class of ncRNAs that regulate gene expression. CircRNAs regulate phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) expression at various levels of transcription, post-transcription, translation, and post-translation under their own regulation. Given the importance of PTEN as a tumor suppressor in cancer that inhibits one of the most important cancer pathways PI3K/AKT involved in tumor cell proliferation and survival, significant studies have been conducted on the regulatory role of circRNAs in relation to PTEN. These studies will be reviewed in this paper to better understand the function of this protein in cancer and explore new therapeutic approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Saeideh Jafarinejad-Farsangi
- Physiology Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
| | - Zahra Miri Karam
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Endocrinology & Metabolism Research Center, Institute of Basic & Clinical Physiology Sciences, Kerman University of Medical Sciences Kerman, Iran
| | - Maryam Gholizadeh
- Institute of Bioinformatics, University of Medicine Greifswald, Greifwald, Germany
| | - Maryam Hadadi
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Abolfazl Yari
- Endocrinology & Metabolism Research Center, Institute of Basic & Clinical Physiology Sciences, Kerman University of Medical Sciences Kerman, Iran; Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wang T, Jin Y, Wang M, Chen B, Sun J, Zhang J, Yang H, Deng X, Cao X, Wang L, Tang Y. SALL4 in gastrointestinal tract cancers: upstream and downstream regulatory mechanisms. Mol Med 2024; 30:46. [PMID: 38584262 PMCID: PMC11000312 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-024-00812-z] [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: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Effective therapeutic targets and early diagnosis are major challenges in the treatment of gastrointestinal tract (GIT) cancers. SALL4 is a well-known transcription factor that is involved in organogenesis during embryonic development. Previous studies have revealed that SALL4 regulates cell proliferation, survival, and migration and maintains stem cell function in mature cells. Additionally, SALL4 overexpression is associated with tumorigenesis. Despite its characterization as a biomarker in various cancers, the role of SALL4 in GIT cancers and the underlying mechanisms are unclear. We describe the functions of SALL4 in GIT cancers and discuss its upstream/downstream genes and pathways associated with each cancer. We also consider the possibility of targeting these genes or pathways as potential therapeutic options for GIT cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tairan Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Yan Jin
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Mengyao Wang
- First Clinical Medical College, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Boya Chen
- First Clinical Medical College, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Jinyu Sun
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Jiaying Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Hui Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Xinyao Deng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Xingyue Cao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Lidong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment and Henan Key, Laboratory for Esophageal Cancer Research of The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
| | - Yuanyuan Tang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Wang Y, Zou R, Li D, Gao X, Lu X. Exosomal circSTRBP from cancer cells facilitates gastric cancer progression via regulating miR-1294/miR-593-3p/E2F2 axis. J Cell Mol Med 2024; 28:e18217. [PMID: 38520208 PMCID: PMC10960172 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.18217] [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: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
CircRNAs represent a new class of non-coding RNAs which show aberrant expression in diverse cancers, such as gastric cancer (GC). circSTRBP, for instance, is suggested to be overexpressed in GC cells and tissues. However, the biological role of circSTRBP in the progression of GC and the potential mechanisms have not been investigated. circSTRBP levels within GC cells and tissues were measured by RT-qPCR. The stability of circSTRBP was assessed by actinomycin D and Ribonuclease R treatment. Cell proliferation, migration, invasion and in vitro angiogenic abilities after circSTRBP knockdown were analysed through CCK-8 assay, transwell culture system and the tube formation assay. The interaction of circSTRBP with the predicted target microRNA (miRNA) was examined by RNA immunoprecipitation and luciferase reporter assays. Xenograft tumour model was established to evaluate the role of exosomal circSTRBP in the tumour formation of GC cells. circSTRBP was upregulated in GC cells and tissues, and there was an increased level of circSTRBP in GC-derived exosomes. circSTRBP in the exosomes enhanced GC cell growth and migration in vitro, which modulates E2F Transcription Factor 2 (E2F2) expression through targeting miR-1294 and miR-593-3p. Additionally, exosomal circSTRBP promoted the tumour growth of GC cells in the xenograft model. Exosomal circSTRBP is implicated in the progression of GC by modulating the activity of miR-1294/miR-593-3p/E2F2 axis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yin Wang
- Department of GastroenterologyBozhou Hospital affiliated to Anhui Medical UniversityBozhouChina
| | - Rong Zou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Wuhan Puren HospitalWuhan University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Deke Li
- Department of AnesthesiologyThe Fifth Hospital of WuhanChina
| | - Xiankui Gao
- Department of GastroenterologyBozhou Hospital affiliated to Anhui Medical UniversityBozhouChina
| | - Xingjun Lu
- Department of GastroenterologyBozhou Hospital affiliated to Anhui Medical UniversityBozhouChina
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Yu X, Du Z, Zhu P, Liao B. Diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic potential of exosomal microRNAs in renal cancer. Pharmacol Rep 2024; 76:273-286. [PMID: 38388810 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-024-00568-7] [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: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) arises from the tubular epithelial cells of the nephron. It has the highest mortality rate among urological cancers. There are no effective therapeutic approaches and no non-invasive biomarkers for diagnosis and follow-up. Thus, suitable novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets are essential for improving RCC diagnosis/prognosis and treatment. Circulating exosomes such as exosomal microRNAs (Exo-miRs) provide non-invasive prognostic/diagnostic biomarkers and valuable therapeutic targets, as they can be easily isolated and quantified and show high sensitivity and specificity. Exosomes secreted by an RCC can exhibit alterations in the miRs' profile that may reflect the cellular origin and (patho)physiological state, as a ''signature'' or ''fingerprint'' of the donor cell. It has been shown that the transportation of renal-specific miRs in exosomes can be rapidly detected and measured, holding great potential as biomarkers in RCC. The present review highlights the studies reporting tumor microenvironment-derived Exo-miRs with therapeutic potential as well as circulating Exo-miRs as potential diagnostic/prognostic biomarkers in patients with RCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Yu
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, 637000, China
| | - Zhongbo Du
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, 637000, China
| | - Pingyu Zhu
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, 637000, China
| | - Bo Liao
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, 637000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ma Q, Yang F, Xiao B, Guo X. Emerging roles of circular RNAs in tumorigenesis, progression, and treatment of gastric cancer. J Transl Med 2024; 22:207. [PMID: 38414006 PMCID: PMC10897999 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05001-4] [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: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
With an estimated one million new cases reported annually, gastric cancer (GC) ranks as the fifth most diagnosed malignancy worldwide. The early detection of GC remains a major challenge, and the prognosis worsens either when patients develop resistance to chemotherapy or radiotherapy or when the cancer metastasizes. The precise pathogenesis underlying GC is not well understood, which further complicates its treatment. Circular RNAs (circRNAs), a recently discovered class of noncoding RNAs that originate from parental genes through "back-splicing", have been shown to play a key role in various biological processes in both eukaryotes and prokaryotes. CircRNAs have been linked to cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, hypertension, Alzheimer's disease, and the occurrence and progression of tumors. Prior studies have established that circRNAs play a crucial role in GC, impacting tumorigenesis, diagnosis, progression, and therapy resistance. This review aims to summarize how circRNAs contribute to GC tumorigenesis and progression, examine their roles in the development of drug resistance, discuss their potential as biotechnological drugs, and summarize their response to therapeutic drugs and microorganism in GC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Ma
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, 637000, People's Republic of China
- Translational Medicine Research Center & School of Laboratory Medicine, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, 637000, People's Republic of China
| | - Feifei Yang
- College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin Xiao
- College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiaolan Guo
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, 637000, People's Republic of China.
- Translational Medicine Research Center & School of Laboratory Medicine, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, 637000, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Miratashi Yazdi SA, Hoseini F, Eftekhar Javadi A, Nazar E. Evaluation of phosphatase and tensin homologue (PTEN) expression in gastric cancer and its relationship with histopathological findings. REVISTA ESPANOLA DE PATOLOGIA : PUBLICACION OFICIAL DE LA SOCIEDAD ESPANOLA DE ANATOMIA PATOLOGICA Y DE LA SOCIEDAD ESPANOLA DE CITOLOGIA 2024; 57:3-8. [PMID: 38246708 DOI: 10.1016/j.patol.2023.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Phosphatase and tensin homologue (PTEN) is an important tumour suppressor in multi-step tumorigenesis. To establish the role of PTEN in gastric cancer progression, we examined the PTEN expression degree in gastric cancer tissues. We also explained the connection between PTEN expression and histopathological findings. MATERIALS AND METHODS Our study was cross-sectional and made up of 50 patients with known gastric cancer. Immunohistochemical staining for PTEN was done on gastric cancer tissues. Tumour behaviour was estimated by histopathological assessments. RESULTS Twenty-seven (54%) of the 50 patients had PTEN staining. The evaluation of the connection between PTEN expression and demographic data and tumour behaviours revealed no meaningful relationship between PTEN expression and patients' age, gender, tumour site and size, tumour type, tumour grade and stage, neural, and lymphovascular invasion (P-value>0.05). CONCLUSION PTEN expression level is expected to be a significant molecular event in the progression of gastric cancer and may be a predictive marker for gastric cancer behaviours dependent on society.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Fatemeh Hoseini
- Department of Pathology, Sina Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arezoo Eftekhar Javadi
- Department of Pathology, Sina Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elham Nazar
- Department of Pathology, Sina Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Li P, Huang D, Gu X. Exploring the dual role of circRNA and PI3K/AKT pathway in tumors of the digestive system. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 168:115694. [PMID: 37832407 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The interactions among circRNAs, the PI3K/AKT pathway, and their downstream effectors are intricately linked to their functional roles in tumorigenesis. Furthermore, the circRNAs/PI3K/AKT axis has been significantly implicated in the context of digestive system tumors. This axis is frequently abnormally activated in digestive cancers, including gastric cancer, colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, and others. Moreover, the overactivation of the circRNAs/PI3K/AKT axis promotes tumor cell proliferation, suppresses apoptosis, enhances invasive and metastatic capabilities, and contributes to drug resistance. In this regard, gaining crucial insights into the complex interaction between circRNAs and the PI3K/AKT pathway holds great potential for elucidating disease mechanisms, identifying diagnostic biomarkers, and designing targeted therapeutic interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Penghui Li
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471000, Henan, China
| | - Di Huang
- Department of Child Health Care, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, Henan, China
| | - Xinyu Gu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471000, Henan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Alkhathami AG, Sahib AS, Al Fayi MS, Fadhil AA, Jawad MA, Shafik SA, Sultan SJ, Almulla AF, Shen M. Glycolysis in human cancers: Emphasis circRNA/glycolysis axis and nanoparticles in glycolysis regulation in cancer therapy. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 234:116007. [PMID: 37119844 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The metabolism of cancer has been an interesting hallmark and metabolic reprogramming, especially the change from oxidative phosphorylation in mitochondria to glucose metabolism known as glycolysis occurs in cancer. The molecular profile of glycolysis, related molecular pathways and enzymes involved in this mechanism such as hexokinase have been fully understood. The glycolysis inhibition can significantly decrease tumorigenesis. On the other hand, circRNAs are new emerging non-coding RNA (ncRNA) molecules with potential biological functions and aberrant expression in cancer cells which have received high attention in recent years. CircRNAs have a unique covalently closed loop structure which makes them highly stable and reliable biomarkers in cancer. CircRNAs are regulators of molecular mechanisms including glycolysis. The enzymes involved in the glycolysis mechanism such as hexokinase are regulated by circRNAs to modulate tumor progression. Induction of glycolysis by circRNAs can significantly increase proliferation rate of cancer cells given access to energy and enhance metastasis. CircRNAs regulating glycolysis can influence drug resistance in cancers because of theirimpact on malignancy of tumor cells upon glycolysis induction. TRIM44, CDCA3, SKA2 and ROCK1 are among the downstream targets of circRNAs in regulating glycolysis in cancer. Additionally, microRNAs are key regulators of glycolysis mechanism in cancer cells and can affect related molecular pathways and enzymes. CircRNAs sponge miRNAs to regulate glycolysis as a main upstream mediator. Moreover, nanoparticles have been emerged as new tools in tumorigenesis suppression and in addition to drug and gene delivery, then mediate cancer immunotherapy and can be used for vaccine development. The nanoparticles can delivery circRNAs in cancer therapy and they are promising candidates in regulation of glycolysis, its suppression and inhibition of related pathways such as HIF-1α. The stimuli-responsive nanoparticles and ligand-functionalized ones have been developed for selective targeting of glycolysis and cancer cells, and mediating carcinogenesis inhibition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ali G Alkhathami
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Ameer S Sahib
- Department of Pharmacy, Al- Mustaqbal University College, 51001 Hilla, Iraq
| | - Majed Saad Al Fayi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Mohammed Abed Jawad
- Department of Medical Laboratories Technology, Al-Nisour University College, Iraq
| | - Sahar Ahmad Shafik
- Professor of Community Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Fayum University, Egypt; College of Nursing, National University of Science and Technology, Iraq
| | | | - Abbas F Almulla
- Medical Laboratory Technology Department, College of Medical Technology, The Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq
| | - Min Shen
- Department of Cardiology, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Hosseini-Abgir A, Naghizadeh MM, Igder S, Miladpour B. Insilco prediction of the role of the FriZZled5 gene in colorectal cancer. Cancer Treat Res Commun 2023; 36:100751. [PMID: 37595345 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctarc.2023.100751] [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: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In this study, we aimed to elucidate the crosstalk between the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and colorectal cancer (CRC) associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) using a bioinformatics analysis of putative common biomarkers and a systems biology approach. MATERIALS AND METHODS The following criteria were used to search the GEO and ArrayExpress databases for terms related to CRC and IBD: 1. The dataset containing the transcriptomic data, and 2. Untreated samples by medications or drugs. A total of 42 datasets were selected for additional analysis. The GEO2R identified the differentially expressed genes. The genes involved in the Wnt signaling pathway were extracted from the KEGG database. Enrichment analysis and miRNA target prediction were conducted through the ToppGene online tool. RESULTS In CRC datasets, there were 1168 up- and 998 down-regulated probes, whereas, in IBD datasets, there were 256 up- and 200 down-regulated probes. There were 65 upregulated and 57 downregulated genes shared by CRC and IBD. According to KEGG, there were 166 genes in the Wnt pathway. FriZZled5 (FZD5) was a down-regulated gene in both CRC and IBD, as determined by the intersection of CRC- and IBD-related DEGs with the Wnt pathway. It was also demonstrated that miR-191, miR-885-5p, miR-378a-3p, and miR-396-3p affect the FriZZled5 gene expression. CONCLUSION It is possible that increased expression of miR-191 and miR-885-5p, or decreased expression of miR-378a -3p and miR396-3, in IBD and CRC results in decreased expression of the FZD5 gene. Based on the function of this gene, FZD5 may be a potential therapeutic target in IBD that progresses to CRC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Somayeh Igder
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Science, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Behnoosh Miladpour
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Selvakumar SC, Preethi KA, Sekar D. MicroRNAs as important players in regulating cancer through PTEN/PI3K/AKT signalling pathways. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188904. [PMID: 37142060 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Cancer being the leading cause of mortality has become a great threat worldwide. Current cancer therapeutics lack specificity and have side effects due to a lack of understanding of the molecular mechanisms and signalling pathways involved in carcinogenesis. In recent years, researchers have been focusing on several signalling pathways to pave the way for novel therapeutics. The PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathway is one of the important pathways involved in cell proliferation and apoptosis, leading to tumour growth. In addition, the PTEN/PI3K/AKT axis has several downstream pathways that could lead to tumour malignancy, metastasis and chemoresistance. On the other hand, microRNAs (miRNAs) are important regulators of various genes leading to disease pathogenesis. Hence studies of the role of miRNAs in regulating the PTEN/PI3K/AKT axis could lead to the development of novel therapeutics for cancer. Thus, in this review, we have focused on various miRNAs involved in the carcinogenesis of various cancer via the PTEN/PI3K/AKT axis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sushmaa Chandralekha Selvakumar
- RNA Biology Lab, Centre for Cellular and Molecular Research, Saveetha Dental College & Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical & Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Saveetha University, Chennai 600077, India
| | - K Auxzilia Preethi
- RNA Biology Lab, Centre for Cellular and Molecular Research, Saveetha Dental College & Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical & Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Saveetha University, Chennai 600077, India
| | - Durairaj Sekar
- RNA Biology Lab, Centre for Cellular and Molecular Research, Saveetha Dental College & Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical & Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Saveetha University, Chennai 600077, India.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Li F, Tang H, Zhao S, Gao X, Yang L, Xu J. Circ-E-Cad encodes a protein that promotes the proliferation and migration of gastric cancer via the TGF-β/Smad/C-E-Cad/PI3K/AKT pathway. Mol Carcinog 2023; 62:360-368. [PMID: 36453704 PMCID: PMC10107598 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23491] [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: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Accumulating studies indicate that circular RNAs (circRNAs) play critical roles in cancer progression. Most of them have been reported to act as microRNA sponges or interact with RNA-binding proteins; however, their full range of functions remains largely unclear. Recently, an increasing number of circRNAs have been found to encode proteins. C-E-Cad, a protein encoded by circular E-cadherin (circ-E-Cad), has been shown to have a great influence in the progression of glioblastoma, but its specific role in gastric cancer (GC) is unclear. Here, we found that both circ-E-Cad and C-E-Cad were upregulated in GC cell lines and GC tissues compared with a human gastric epithelial cell line (GES-1) and normal tissues. Knockdown of circ-E-Cad suppressed GC cell line proliferation and metastasis in vitro and in vivo, whereas overexpression of C-E-Cad had the opposite effects. Immunoblotting revealed that C-E-Cad exerted tumor-promoting functions by regulating the PI3K/AKT pathway. A rescue experiment showed that C-E-Cad but not circ-E-Cad was the executor of protumor biological functions. In addition, we demonstrated that the C-E-Cad expression level could have been increased by the TGF-β/Smad pathway. In summary, our results indicated that the TGF-β/Smad pathway could increase the expression of C-E-Cad to regulate GC cell proliferation, migration, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition by affecting PI3K/AKT signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fanying Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongxing Tang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Shaoji Zhao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinya Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Lixuan Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianbo Xu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Zhang Y, Wang X, Wang S, Liu J, Li R, Li X, Zhang R. Circ-ERBB2 knockdown sensitized colorectal cancer cells to 5-FU via miR-181a-5p/PTEN/Akt pathway. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2023; 37:e23297. [PMID: 36639866 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.23297] [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: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the fourth most deadly cancer worldwide, drug resistance impedes treatment of CRC. It is still urgent to find new molecular targets to improve the sensitivity of chemotherapeutic drugs. In this study, circ-ERBB2 was upregulated in CRC cells. Upregulation of circ-ERBB2 promoted CRC cells proliferation and clone formation, but inhibited apoptosis. We identified miR-181a-5p as circ-ERBB2's target. The effect of miR-181a-5p on CRC cells was contrary to circ-ERBB2, miR-181a-5p downregulation abolished the function of circ-ERBB2 silencing in CRC cells. In addition, phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) was verified as miR-181a-5p's downstream target, circ-ERBB2 activates the Akt pathway and inhibits cell apoptosis through modulating miR-181a-5p/PTEN. Circ-ERBB2 silencing significantly reduced CRC cell resistance to 5-FU. miR-181a-5p downregulation abolished the role of circ-ERBB2 knockdown in CRC cell resistance to 5-FU. In conclusion, upregulation of circ-ERBB2 promoted the malignancy of CRC and reduced CRC cell resistance to 5-FU. Besides, additional mechanism study provided a novel regulatory pathways that circ-ERBB2 knockdown promoted CRC cell sensitivity to 5-FU by regulating miR-181a-5p/PTEN/Akt pathway. This research indicated that circ-ERBB2 may be a valuable biomarker for the diagnosis and treatment of CRC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yueli Zhang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Zhengzhou Central Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinchun Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuyun Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia Liu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Zhengzhou Central Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruijia Li
- Department of Pharmacy, The Eight Hospital of Xian, Xian, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoxia Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Emergency Department, Shaanxi Provincial Cancer Hospital, College of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xian, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Almouh M, Razmara E, Bitaraf A, Ghazimoradi MH, Hassan ZM, Babashah S. Circular RNAs play roles in regulatory networks of cell signaling pathways in human cancers. Life Sci 2022; 309:120975. [PMID: 36126723 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are endogenous covalently closed non-coding RNAs produced by reverse splicing of linear RNA. These molecules are highly expressed in mammalian cells and show cell/tissue-specific expression patterns. They are also significantly dysregulated in various cancers and function as oncogenes or tumor suppressors. Emerging evidence reveals that circRNAs contribute to cancer progression via modulating different cell signaling pathways. Nevertheless, the functional significance of circRNAs in cell signaling pathways regulation is still largely elusive. Considering this, shedding light on the multi-pathway effects of circRNAs may improve our understanding of targeted cancer therapy. Here, we discuss how circRNAs regulate the major cell signaling pathways in human cancers. MATERIALS AND METHODS We adopted a systematic search in PubMed using the following MeSH terms: circRNAs, non-coding RNAs, lncRNAs, exosomal circRNAs, cancer, and cell signaling. KEY FINDINGS We discussed different roles of circRNAs during tumorigenesis in which circRNAs affect tumor development through activating or inactivating certain cell signaling pathways via molecular interactions using various signaling pathways. We also discussed how crosstalk between circRNAs and lncRNAs modulate tumorigenesis and provides a resource for the identification of cancer therapeutic targets. SIGNIFICANCE We here elucidated how circRNAs can modulate different cell signaling pathways and play roles in cancer. This can broaden our horizons toward introducing promising prognostic, diagnostic, and therapeutic targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mansour Almouh
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Razmara
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Amirreza Bitaraf
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad H Ghazimoradi
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zuhair Mohammad Hassan
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sadegh Babashah
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Wang S, Xiao F, Li J, Fan X, He Z, Yan T, Yang M, Yang D. Circular RNAs Involved in the Regulation of the Age-Related Pathways. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810443. [PMID: 36142352 PMCID: PMC9500598 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810443] [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: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of covalently circular noncoding RNAs that have been extensively studied in recent years. Aging is a process related to functional decline that is regulated by signal transduction. An increasing number of studies suggest that circRNAs can regulate aging and multiple age-related diseases through their involvement in age-related signaling pathways. CircRNAs perform several biological functions, such as acting as miRNA sponges, directly interacting with proteins, and regulating transcription and translation to proteins or peptides. Herein, we summarize research progress on the biological functions of circRNAs in seven main age-related signaling pathways, namely, the insulin-insulin-like, PI3K-AKT, mTOR, AMPK, FOXO, p53, and NF-κB signaling pathways. In these pathways, circRNAs mainly function as miRNA sponges. In this review, we suggest that circRNAs are widely involved in the regulation of the main age-related pathways and are potential biomarkers for aging and age-related diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Feng Xiao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Jiamei Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Xiaolan Fan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Zhi He
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Taiming Yan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Mingyao Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
- Correspondence: (M.Y.); (D.Y.); Tel.: +86-28-86290991 (M.Y.)
| | - Deying Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
- Correspondence: (M.Y.); (D.Y.); Tel.: +86-28-86290991 (M.Y.)
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Construction of a ferroptosis-associated circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network in age-related macular degeneration. Exp Eye Res 2022; 224:109234. [PMID: 36044964 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109234] [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: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of severe vision impairment in the aging population. However, the underlying molecular mechanism remains unclear. Ferroptosis is a novel non-apoptotic programmed cell death pathway, that contributes to AMD. In addition, non-coding RNA-led epigenetic profile was identified in the regulation of AMD progression. Considering that non-coding RNAs are vital regulators of ferroptosis-related genes in various pathological events, we explored and constructed a ferroptosis-associated circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network in AMD. Differential expression of fourteen ferroptosis-associated genes were identified based on our microarray analysis and the FerrDb tool at the threshold of P < 0.05 and log2|fold change| ≥ 1, which were subsequently validated by the public datasets. We further screened eight miRNAs via public datasets and the miRNet database. Based on these eight miRNAs, 23 circRNAs were mined using the Starbase tool. Taking all these together, we obtained a ferroptosis-related network with 414 pairs of circRNA-miRNA-mRNA, which are potential targets in future AMD treatments.
Collapse
|
16
|
Ma Q, Yang F, Huang B, Pan X, Li W, Yu T, Wang X, Ran L, Qian K, Li H, Li H, Liu Y, Liang C, Ren J, Zhang Y, Wang S, Xiao B. CircARID1A binds to IGF2BP3 in gastric cancer and promotes cancer proliferation by forming a circARID1A-IGF2BP3-SLC7A5 RNA–protein ternary complex. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2022; 41:251. [PMID: 35986300 PMCID: PMC9389715 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-022-02466-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common malignant tumors in China. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are novel non-coding RNAs with important regulatory roles in cancer progression. IGF2BP3 has been found to play oncogenic roles in various cancers including GC, while the exact mechanism of IGF2BP3 is largely unknown. Methods The expression of IGF2BP3 in GC was evaluated by Western Blot and bioinformatics analysis. CircRNA expression profiles were screened via IGF2BP3 RIP-seq in GC. Sanger sequencing, RNase R digestion, nucleo-plasmic separation and RNA-FISH assays were used to detect the existence and expression of circARID1A. RNA ISH assay was employed to test the expression of circARID1A in paraffin-embedded GC tissues. Moreover, the function of circARID1A on cellular proliferation was assessed by CCK-8, plate colony formation, EdU assays and GC xenograft mouse model in vivo. Furthermore, the location or binding of circARID1A, IGF2BP3 protein and SLC7A5 in GC was evaluated by RNA-FISH/IF or RNA pull-down assays. Results We identified a novel circRNA, circARID1A, that can bind to IGF2BP3 protein. CircARID1A was significantly upregulated in GC tissues compared with noncancerous tissues and positively correlated with tumor length, tumor volume, and TNM stage. CircARID1A knockdown inhibited the proliferation of GC cells in vitro and in vivo and circARID1A played an important role in the oncogenic function of IGF2BP3. Mechanistically, circARID1A served as a scaffold to facilitate the interaction between IGF2BP3 and SLC7A5 mRNA, finally increasing SLC7A5 mRNA stability. Additionally, circARID1A was able to directly bind SLC7A5 mRNA through complementary base-pairing and then formed the circARID1A-IGF2BP3-SLC7A5 RNA–protein ternary complex and promoted the proliferation of GC via regulating AKT/mTOR pathway. Conclusions Altogether, our data suggest that circARID1A is involved in the function of IGF2BP3 and GC proliferation, and the circARID1A-IGF2BP3-SLC7A5 axis has the potential to serve as a novel therapeutic target for GC. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13046-022-02466-3.
Collapse
|
17
|
Xiao K, Li S, Ding J, Wang Z, Wang D, Cao X, Zhang Y, Dong Z. Expression and clinical value of circRNAs in serum extracellular vesicles for gastric cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 12:962831. [PMID: 36059681 PMCID: PMC9428625 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.962831] [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: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective At present, there are still no effective diagnosis methods for gastric cancer (GC). Increasing evidences indicate that Extracellular Vesicle circular RNAs (EV circRNAs) play a crucial role in several diseases. However, their correlations with GC are not clarified. This study aims to investigate the expression profile of serum EV circRNAs in GC and evaluate its potential clinical value. Methods High-throughput RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was used to assess circRNA expression profiles between 4 patients with GC and 4 healthy controls. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were employed to determine the biological functions of differentially expressed (DE) circRNAs. A circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network was constructed using bioinformatics tools. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-q)PCR was used to validate the dysregulated circRNAs. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to evaluate the diagnostic value of circRNAs for GC. Results A total of 4692 circRNAs were detected in the serum EVs of healthy controls and patients with GC, most of which were novel (98%) and intergenic (52%). 7 circRNAs were upregulated and 4 circRNAs were downregulated (|log2Fold Change| > 2, P < 0.05). GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses revealed that DE circRNAs were primarily involved in glutathione metabolism, protein folding, and drug metabolism-cytochrome P450. Of these, 3 circRNAs (Chr10q11, Chr1p11, and Chr7q11) were identified to be significantly overexpressed in patients with GC compared with healthy controls using RT-qPCR. The combination of 3 EV circRNAs and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) produced an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.866 (95%CI: 0.803-0.915) with a sensitivity and specificity of 80.4% and 81.8%, respectively. Additionally, the expression levels of 3 EV circRNAs were significantly correlated with tumor size, lymph node metastasis, and TNM stage. The circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network showed that the 3 identified circRNAs were predicted to interact with 13 miRNAs and 91 mRNAs. Conclusion Our results illustrate that the panel of EV circRNAs in serum are aberrantly expressed and may act as the suitable biomarkers for gastric cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ke Xiao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Shirong Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Weifang People’s Hospital, Weifang, China
| | - Juan Ding
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Zhen Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Ding Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiangting Cao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Zhaogang Dong, ; Yi Zhang,
| | - Zhaogang Dong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Zhaogang Dong, ; Yi Zhang,
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
The miRNA-21-5p Payload in Exosomes from M2 Macrophages Drives Tumor Cell Aggression via PTEN/Akt Signaling in Renal Cell Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063005. [PMID: 35328425 PMCID: PMC8949275 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
M2 macrophages in the tumor microenvironment are important drivers of cancer metastasis. Exosomes play a critical role in the crosstalk between different cells by delivering microRNAs or other cargos. Whether exosomes derived from pro-tumorigenic M2 macrophages (M2-Exos) could modulate the metastatic behavior of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is unclear. This study found that M2-Exos promotes migration and invasion in RCC cells. Inhibiting miR-21-5p in M2-Exos significantly reversed their pro-metastatic effects on RCC cells in vitro and in the avian embryo chorioallantoic membrane in vivo tumor model. We further found that the pro-metastatic mechanism of miR-21-5p in M2-Exos is by targeting PTEN-3′UTR to regulate PTEN/Akt signaling. Taken together, our results demonstrate that M2-Exos carries miR-21-5p promote metastatic features of RCC cells through PTEN/Akt signaling. Reversing this could serve as a novel approach to control RCC metastasis.
Collapse
|