Knockdown of LncRNA SNHG7 inhibited epithelial-mesenchymal transition in prostate cancer though miR-324-3p/WNT2B axis in vitro

Long Non-coding RNA SNHG7 Suppresses Inflammation and Apoptosis of Chondrocytes Through Inactivating of p38 MAPK Signaling Pathway in Osteoarthritis

This study aims to explore the molecular mechanism of LncRNA SNHG7 in Osteoarthritis (OA). Cartilage tissues of OA patients or patients with trauma or amputation were collected. Compared to normal cartilage tissues, SNHG7 was downregulated while miR-324-3p was upregulated in cartilage tissues of OA patients. IL-1β was used to induce damage to chondrocytes and treatment with IL-1β reduced SNHG7 expression in OA chondrocytes. In IL-1β-treated OA chondrocytes, SNHG7 overexpression reduced the levels of TNF-α and IL-6, inhibited cell apoptosis, and increased cell viability. Additionally, the luciferase reporter assay proved that SNHG7 upregulated dual-specificity phosphatase 1 (DUSP1) by sponging miR-324-3p, thereby inactivating the p38 MAPK signaling pathway by regulating the miR-324-3p/DUSP1 axis. Anisomycin (a p38 MAPK activator) enhanced OA chondrocytes inflammation, promoted cell apoptosis, and reduced cell viability; however, this was reversed by SNHG7 overexpression. This study demonstrates that the SNHG7/miR-324-3p/DUSP1 axis suppresses OA chondrocytes inflammation and apoptosis by inhibiting the p38 MAPK signaling pathway. Thus, this study indicates that SNHG7 is a novel target for OA treatment.

Investigating the Role of SNAI1 and ZEB1 Expression in Prostate Cancer Progression and Immune Modulation of the Tumor Microenvironment

Prostate cancer (PCa) is an immunologically cold tumor and the molecular processes that underlie this behavior are poorly understood. In this study, we investigated a primary cohort of intermediate-risk PCa (n = 51) using two NanoString profiling panels designed to study cancer progression and immune response. We identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and pathways associated with biochemical recurrence (BCR) and clinical risk. Confirmatory analysis was performed using the TCGA-PRAD cohort. Noteworthy DEGs included collagens such as COL1A1, COL1A2, and COL3A1. Changes in the distribution of collagens may influence the immune activity in the tumor microenvironment (TME). In addition, immune-related DEGs such as THY1, IRF5, and HLA-DRA were also identified. Enrichment analysis highlighted pathways such as those associated with angiogenesis, TGF-beta, UV response, and EMT. Among the 39 significant DEGs, 11 (28%) were identified as EMT target genes for ZEB1 using the Harmonizome database. Elevated ZEB1 expression correlated with reduced BCR risk. Immune landscape analysis revealed that ZEB1 was associated with increased immunosuppressive cell types in the TME, such as naïve B cells and M2 macrophages. Increased expression of both ZEB1 and SNAI1 was associated with elevated immune checkpoint expression. In the future, modulation of EMT could be beneficial for overcoming immunotherapy resistance in a cold tumor, such as PCa.

miRNA Expression Patterns in Early- and Late-Stage Prostate Cancer Patients: High-Throughput Analysis

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common types of cancer among men. To date, there have been no specific markers identified for the diagnosis and prognosis or response to treatment of this disease. Thus, there is an urgent need for promising markers, which may be fulfilled by small non-coding RNAs known as microRNAs (miRNAs). Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the miRNA profile in tissue samples obtained from patients with PCa using microarrays, followed by reverse transcriptase quantitative PCRs (RT-qPCRs). In the discovery phase, 754 miRNAs were screened in tissues obtained from patients (n = 46) with PCa in early and late stages. Expression levels of miRNA-324-3p, miRNA-429, miRNA-570, and miRNA-616 were found to be downregulated, and miRNA-423-5p expression was upregulated in patients with early-stage cancer compared to the late-stage ones. These five miRNAs were further validated in an independent cohort of samples (n = 39) collected from patients with PCa using RT-qPCR-based assays. MiRNA-324-3p, miRNA-429, miRNA-570, and miRNA-616 expression levels remained significantly downregulated in early-stage cancer tissues compared to late-stage tissues. Remarkably, for a combination of three miRNAs, PSA levels and Gleason scores were able to discriminate between patients with early-stage PCa and late-stage PCa, with an AUC of 95%, a sensitivity of 86%, and a specificity close to 94%. Thus, the data obtained in this study suggest a possible involvement of the identified miRNAs in the pathogenesis of PCa, and they may also have the potential to be developed into diagnostic and prognostic tools for PCa. However, further studies with a larger cohort are needed.

Deciphering the Enigmatic Influence: Non-Coding RNAs Orchestrating Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway in Tumor Progression

Dysregulated expression of specific non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) has been strongly linked to tumorigenesis, cancer progression, and therapeutic resistance. These ncRNAs can act as either oncogenes or tumor suppressors, thereby serving as valuable diagnostic and prognostic markers. Numerous studies have implicated the participation of ncRNAs in the regulation of diverse signaling pathways, including the pivotal Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway that is widely acknowledged for its pivotal role in embryogenesis, cellular proliferation, and tumor biology control. Recent emerging evidence has shed light on the capacity of ncRNAs to interact with key components of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, thereby modulating the expression of Wnt target genes in cancer cells. Notably, the activity of this pathway can reciprocally influence the expression levels of ncRNAs. However, comprehensive analysis investigating the specific ncRNAs associated with the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and their intricate interactions in cancer remains elusive. Based on these noteworthy findings, this review aims to unravel the intricate associations between ncRNAs and the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway during cancer initiation, progression, and their potential implications for therapeutic interventions. Additionally, we provide a comprehensive overview of the characteristics of ncRNAs and the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, accompanied by a thorough discussion of their functional roles in tumor biology. Targeting ncRNAs and molecules associated with the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway may emerge as a promising and effective therapeutic strategy in future cancer treatments.

Pathological role of long non-coding (lnc) RNA in the regulation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway during epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)

The term "epithelial-mesenchymal transition" (EMT) describes a biological process wherein epithelial cells acquire mesenchymal cell characteristics. This process enables the metastatic cells to migrate and invasion. Recent studies have established the connections between the EMT process and Wnt/β-catenin signaling in cancer. Key cellular functions such as differentiation, proliferation, migration, genetic stability, apoptosis, and stem cell renewal are modulated via Wnt/ β-catenin signaling pathway. Up-regulation of this evolutionarily conserved signal pathway leads to EMT. On the other hand, recent investigations have indicated that non-coding RNAs including microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNA (lncRNAs) are involved in regulating of Wnt/β-catenin pathway. A high level of lncRNAs mainly has a positive correlation with EMT. However, lncRNA down-regulation has been observed in promoting EMT. It seems that depending on the specific targets, up-or down-regulation of lncRNAs can stimulate EMT by activating the Wnt/ β-catenin pathway. The evaluation of interactions between lncRNAs and the Wnt/ β-catenin signaling pathway in the regulation of EMT during metastasis can be fascinating. Herein, for the first time, the crucial role of lncRNAs-mediated regulation of the Wnt/ β-catenin signaling pathway in the EMT process of human tumors has been summarized.

Long noncoding RNA as a potential diagnostic tool for prostate cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

To identify consistently expressed lncRNAs and suitable lncRNAs with high sensitivity and specificity from multiple independent studies as potential biomarkers for PCa diagnostics.

METHODS

We searched multiple electronic databases including PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, CNKI, CQVIP, Wanfang, and CBMdisc for studies published up to July 2022. The quality of the included studies was assessed by two independent reviewers based on the QUADAS-2 tool using Review Manager 5.3. A vote-counting method was used based on the ranking of potential molecular biomarkers. The top-ranked lncRNAs were further assessed for diagnostic value using Meta-disc version 1.4 software.

RESULTS

Among the 26 included studies, 2 circulating lncRNAs (PCA3 and MALAT-1) were reported 3 or more times in PCa patients versus non-PCa patients. In further analysis, the areas under the curve of the summary receiver operating characteristic curves for PCA3 and MALAT-1 distinguishing PCa patients were 0.775 and 0.771, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the current evidence, PCA3 and MALAT-1 are reliable lncRNAs for the diagnosis of PCa.

Prognostic values of long noncoding RNA in bone metastasis of prostate cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Introduction

Recent studies have shown that long non-coding RNAs are closely related to the occurrence and development of prostate cancer bone metastasis, and can be used as biomarkers to predict the prognosis of patients. Therefore, this study aimed to systematically evaluate the relationship between the expression levels of long non-coding RNAs and the prognosis of patients.

Methods

The studies of lncRNA in prostate cancer bone metastasis from Pubmed, Cochrane library, Embase, Ebsco, Web of science, Scopus, Ovid databases were analyzed, and Stata 15 was used for meta-analysis. Associations between lncRNA expression and patients' overall survival (OS) and bone metastasis-free survival (BMFS) were assessed by correlation analysis with pooled hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Furthermore, the results were validated using GEPIA2 and UALCAN, online database based on TCGA. Subsequently, the molecular mechanisms of the included lncRNAs were predicted based on the LncACTdb 3.0 database and the lnCAR database. Finally, we used clinical samples to validate lncRNAs that were significantly different in both databases.

Results

A total of 5 published studies involving 474 patients were included in this meta-analysis. The results showed that lncRNA overexpression was significantly associated with lower OS (HR = 2.55, 95% CI: 1.69 - 3.99, p < 0.05) and lower BMFS (OR = 3.16, 95% CI: 1.90 - 5.27, p < 0.05) in patients with prostate cancer bone metastasis. Based on validation from the GEPIA2 and UALCAN online databases, SNHG3 and NEAT1 were significantly up-regulated in prostate cancer. Further functional prediction showed that the lncRNAs included in the study were involved in regulating the occurrence and development of prostate cancer through the ceRNA axis. The result of clinical samples showed that SNHG3 and NEAT1 were expressed in prostate cancer bone metastasis at higher levels than in primary tumors.

Conclusions

LncRNA can be used as a novel predictive biomarker for predicting poor prognosis in patients with prostate cancer bone metastasis, which is worthy of clinical validation.

A Feedback Loop of LINC00665 and the Wnt Signaling Pathway Expedites Osteosarcoma Cell Proliferation, Invasion, and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition

OBJECTIVES

Osteosarcoma (OS) is a malignant tumor with frequent occurrence among teenagers. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play pro-cancer roles in many tumors. The purpose of this study was to figure out the functional role of a novel lncRNA long intergenic non-protein coding RNA 665 (LINC00665) in OS by observing the OS cell behaviors.

METHODS

Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to analyze LINC00665 expression in OS cells. Cell function assays assessed the impacts of LINC00665 on OS cell phenotype. Immunofluorescence and western blot analyzed the function of LINC00665 on epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in OS. Moreover, mechanistic assays analyzed the downstream mechanism of LINC00665 in OS cells.

RESULTS

LINC00665 was significantly up-regulated in OS cells. LINC00665 silence facilitated OS cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT while inhibiting cell apoptosis. Mechanically, LINC00665 acted as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to sponge miR-1249-5p and thereby modulated Wnt family member 2B (WNT2B) to activate Wnt pathway. Wnt pathway activated LINC00665 expression transcriptionally.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study uncovered the cancer-promoting role of LINC00665 in OS, and the feedback loop of LINC00665/miR-1249-5p/WNT2B/Wnt might be a potential target for OS treatment.

Long noncoding RNA SNHG7-miRNA-mRNA axes crosstalk with oncogenic signaling pathways in human cancers

LncRNAs and miRNAs are the two most important non-coding RNAs, which have been identified to be associated with cancer progression or prevention. The dysregulation of lncRNAs conducts tumorigenesis and metastasis in different ways. One of the mechanisms is that lncRNAs interact with miRNAs to regulate distinct cellular and genomic processes and cancer progression. LncRNA SNHG7 as an oncogene sponges miRNAs and develops lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA axes, leading to the regulation of several signaling pathways such as Wnt/β-Catenin, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, SIRT1, and Snail-EMT. Therefore, in this article, after a brief overview of lncRNA SNHG7-miRNA-mRNA axes' contribution to cancer development, we will discuss the role of lncRNA SNHG7 in the genes expression and signaling pathways related to cancers development via acting as a ceRNA.

The Role of Long Non-Coding RNAs in Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition-Related Signaling Pathways in Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common male malignancies with frequent remote invasion and metastasis, leading to high mortality. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a fundamental process in embryonic development and plays a key role in tumor proliferation, invasion and metastasis. Numerous long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) could regulate the occurrence and development of EMT through various complex molecular mechanisms involving multiple signaling pathways in PCa. Given the importance of EMT and lncRNAs in the progression of tumor metastasis, we recapitulate the research progress of EMT-related signaling pathways regulated by lncRNAs in PCa, including AR signaling, STAT3 signaling, Wnt/β-catenin signaling, PTEN/PI3K/AKT signaling, TGF-β/Smad and NF-κB signaling pathways. Furthermore, we summarize four modes of how lncRNAs participate in the EMT process of PCa via regulating relevant signaling pathways.

Molecular Landscape of LncRNAs in Prostate Cancer: A focus on pathways and therapeutic targets for intervention

Background

One of the most malignant tumors in men is prostate cancer that is still incurable due to its heterogenous and progressive natures. Genetic and epigenetic changes play significant roles in its development. The RNA molecules with more than 200 nucleotides in length are known as lncRNAs and these epigenetic factors do not encode protein. They regulate gene expression at transcriptional, post-transcriptional and epigenetic levels. LncRNAs play vital biological functions in cells and in pathological events, hence their expression undergoes dysregulation.

Aim of review

The role of epigenetic alterations in prostate cancer development are emphasized here. Therefore, lncRNAs were chosen for this purpose and their expression level and interaction with other signaling networks in prostate cancer progression were examined.

Key scientific concepts of review

The aberrant expression of lncRNAs in prostate cancer has been well-documented and progression rate of tumor cells are regulated via affecting STAT3, NF-κB, Wnt, PI3K/Akt and PTEN, among other molecular pathways. Furthermore, lncRNAs regulate radio-resistance and chemo-resistance features of prostate tumor cells. Overexpression of tumor-promoting lncRNAs such as HOXD-AS1 and CCAT1 can result in drug resistance. Besides, lncRNAs can induce immune evasion of prostate cancer via upregulating PD-1. Pharmacological compounds such as quercetin and curcumin have been applied for targeting lncRNAs. Furthermore, siRNA tool can reduce expression of lncRNAs thereby suppressing prostate cancer progression. Prognosis and diagnosis of prostate tumor at clinical course can be evaluated by lncRNAs. The expression level of exosomal lncRNAs such as lncRNA-p21 can be investigated in serum of prostate cancer patients as a reliable biomarker.

Role of microRNAs in regulation of WNT signaling pathway in urothelial and prostate cancers

Background

Urothelial cancer (UC) and prostate cancer (PCa) are the most common cancers among men with a high ratio of mortality in advanced-stages. The higher risk of these malignancies among men can be associated with higher carcinogens exposure. Molecular pathology of UC and PCa is related to the specific mutations and aberrations in some signaling pathways. WNT signaling is a highly regulated pathway that has a pivotal role during urothelial and prostate development and homeostasis. This pathway also plays a vital role in adult stem cell niches to maintain a balance between stemness and differentiation. Deregulation of the WNT pathway is frequently correlated with tumor progression and metastasis in urothelial and prostate tumors. Therefore, regulatory factors of WNT pathways are being investigated as diagnostic or prognostic markers and novel therapeutic targets during urothelial and prostate tumorigenesis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have a pivotal role in WNT signaling regulation in which there are interactions between miRNAs and WNT signaling pathway during tumor progression. Since, the miRNAs are sensitive, specific, and noninvasive, they can be introduced as efficient biomarkers of tumor progression.

Main body

In present review, we have summarized all of the miRNAs that have been involved in regulation of WNT signaling pathway in urothelial and prostate cancers.

Conclusions

It was observed that miRNAs were mainly involved in regulation of WNT signaling in bladder cancer cells through targeting the WNT ligands and cytoplasmic WNT components such as WNT5A, WNT7A, CTNNB1, GSK3β, and AXIN. Whereas, miRNAs were mainly involved in regulation of WNT signaling in prostate tumor cells via targeting the cytoplasmic WNT components and WNT related transcription factors such as CTNNB1, GSK3β, AXIN, TCF7, and LEF1. MiRNAs mainly functioned as tumor suppressors in bladder and prostate cancers through the WNT signaling inhibition. This review paves the way of introducing a noninvasive diagnostic panel of WNT related miRNAs in urothelial and prostate tumors.

Molecular Mechanisms Underlying the Association between Endometriosis and Ectopic Pregnancy

Endometriosis is a common inflammatory disease characterized by the presence of endometrial cells outside the uterine cavity. It is estimated that it affects 10% of women of reproductive age. Its pathogenesis covers a wide range of abnormalities, including adhesion, proliferation, and cell signaling disturbances. It is associated with a significant deterioration in quality of life as a result of chronic pelvic pain and may also lead to infertility. One of the most serious complications of endometriosis is an ectopic pregnancy (EP). Currently, the exact mechanism explaining this phenomenon is unknown; therefore, there are no effective methods of prevention. It is assumed that the pathogenesis of EP is influenced by abnormalities in the contraction of the fallopian tube muscles, the mobility of the cilia, and in the fallopian microenvironment. Endometriosis can disrupt function on all three levels and thus contribute to the implantation of the embryo beyond the physiological site. This review takes into account aspects of the molecular mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology of endometriosis and EP, with particular emphasis on the similarities between them.

LncRNA SNHG7 Promotes the HCC Progression Through miR-122-5p/FOXK2 Axis

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a malignant tumor with high mortality and severe complication in China. Numerous studies have shown that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in the regulation of various processes in cancer cells. Our research aimed to investigate the underlying mechanism of the lncRNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 (SNHG7) in HCC development. The expression of SNHG7, microRNA-122-5p (miR-122-5p), and Forkhead box K2 (FOXK2) was assessed via quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. 3-(4,5) -dimethylthiahiazo (-z-y1)-3,5-di-phenytetrazoliumromide (MTT) and transwell assays were performed to measure cell viability, migration, and invasion, respectively. The relative protein levels were detected by Western blot. The relationships between miR-122-5p and SNHG7 or FOXK2 were predicted by online software and then confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter assay. Animal experiments were conducted to clarify the effects of SNHG7 on proliferation in vivo. To begin with, SNHG7 was upregulated, while miR-122-5p was downregulated in HCC tissues and cells. Downregulation of SNHG7 inhibited cell growth and metastasis. Interestingly, SNHG7 could abolish the effects of miR-122-5p on HCC cells. Furthermore, miR-122-5p targeted FOXK2 and miR-122-5p recovered the effects of FOXK2 downregulation on cell growth and metastasis in HCC cells. Besides, SNHG7 facilitated HCC tumor growth in vivo through the miR-122-5p/FOXK2 axis. The lncRNA SNHG7 boosted the development of HCC by regulating FOXK2 through sponging miR-122-5p.

Crosstalk between Long Non Coding RNAs, microRNAs and DNA Damage Repair in Prostate Cancer: New Therapeutic Opportunities?

Simple Summary

Non-coding RNAs are a type of genetic material that doesn’t make protein, but performs diverse regulatory functions. In prostate cancer, most treatments target proteins, and resistance to such therapies is common, leading to disease progression. Targeting non-coding RNAs may provide alterative treatment options and potentially overcome drug resistance. Major types of non-coding RNAs include tiny ‘microRNAs’ and much longer ‘long non-coding RNAs’. Scientific studies have shown that these form a major part of the human genome, and play key roles in altering gene activity and determining the fate of cells. Importantly, in cancer, their activity is altered. Recent evidence suggests that microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs play important roles in controlling response to DNA damage. In this review, we explore how different types of non-coding RNA interact to control cell DNA damage responses, and how this knowledge may be used to design better prostate cancer treatments and tests.

Abstract

It is increasingly appreciated that transcripts derived from non-coding parts of the human genome, such as long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs), are key regulators of biological processes both in normal physiology and disease. Their dysregulation during tumourigenesis has attracted significant interest in their exploitation as novel cancer therapeutics. Prostate cancer (PCa), as one of the most diagnosed malignancies and a leading cause of cancer-related death in men, continues to pose a major public health problem. In particular, survival of men with metastatic disease is very poor. Defects in DNA damage response (DDR) pathways culminate in genomic instability in PCa, which is associated with aggressive disease and poor patient outcome. Treatment options for metastatic PCa remain limited. Thus, researchers are increasingly targeting ncRNAs and DDR pathways to develop new biomarkers and therapeutics for PCa. Increasing evidence points to a widespread and biologically-relevant regulatory network of interactions between lncRNAs and miRNAs, with implications for major biological and pathological processes. This review summarises the current state of knowledge surrounding the roles of the lncRNA:miRNA interactions in PCa DDR, and their emerging potential as predictive and diagnostic biomarkers. We also discuss their therapeutic promise for the clinical management of PCa.

Oncogenic Roles of Small Nucleolar RNA Host Gene 7 (SNHG7) Long Noncoding RNA in Human Cancers and Potentials

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a class of noncoding transcripts characterized with more than 200 nucleotides of length. Unlike their names, some short open reading frames are recognized for them encoding small proteins. LncRNAs are found to play regulatory roles in essential cellular processes such as cell growth and apoptosis. Therefore, an increasing number of lncRNAs are identified with dysregulation in a wide variety of human cancers. SNHG7 is an lncRNA with upregulation in cancer cells and tissues. It is frequently reported with potency of promoting malignant cell behaviors in vitro and in vivo. Like oncogenic/tumor suppressor lncRNAs, SNHG7 is found to exert its tumorigenic functions through interaction with other biological substances. These include sponging target miRNAs (various numbers are identified), regulation of several signaling pathways, transcription factors, and effector proteins. Importantly, clinical studies demonstrate association between high SNHG7 expression and clinicopathological features in cancerous patients, worse prognosis, and enhanced chemoresistance. In this review, we summarize recent studies in three eras of cell, animal, and human experiments to bold the prognostic, diagnostic, and therapeutic potentials.

Prognostic effect of lncRNA SNHG7 on cancer outcome: a meta and bioinformatic analysis

BACKGROUND

New evidence from clinical and fundamental researches suggests that SNHG7 is involved in the occurrence and development of carcinomas. And the increased levels of SNHG7 are associated with poor prognosis in various kinds of tumors. However, the small sample size was the limitation for the prognostic value of SNHG7 in clinical application. The aim of the present meta-analysis was to conduct a qualitative analysis to explore the prognostic value of SNHG7 in various cancers.

METHODS

Articles related to the SNHG7 as a prognostic biomarker for cancer patients, were comprehensive searched in several electronic databases. The enrolled articles were qualified via the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis of observational studies in epidemiology checklists. Additionally, an online database based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) was further used to validate our results.

RESULTS

We analyzed 2418 cancer patients that met the specified criteria. The present research indicated that an elevated SNHG7 expression level was significantly associated with unfavorable overall survival (OS) (HR = 2.45, 95% CI: 2.12-2.85, p <0.001). Subgroup analysis showed that high expression levels of SNHG7 were also significantly associated with unfavorable OS in digestive system cancer (HR = 2.31, 95% CI: 1.90-2.80, p <0.001) and non-digestive system cancer (HR = 2.67, 95% CI: 2.12-3.37, p <0.001). Additionally, increased SNHG7 expression was found to be associated with tumor stage and progression (III/IV vs. I/II: HR = 1.76, 95% CI: 1.57-1.98, p <0.001). Furthermore, elevated SNHG7 expression significantly predicted lymph node metastasis (LNM) (HR = 1.98, 95% CI: 1.74-2.26, p <0.001) and distant metastasis (DM) (HR = 2.49, 95% CI: 1.88-3.30, p <0.001) respectively. No significant heterogeneity was observed among these studies. SNHG7 was significantly upregulated in four cancers and the elevated expression of SNHG7 predicted shorter OS in four cancers, worse DFS in five malignancies and worse PFI in five carcinomas based on the validation using the GEPIA on-line analysis tool.

CONCLUSIONS

The present analysis suggests that elevated SNHG7 is significantly associated with unfavorable OS, tumor progression, LNM and DM in various carcinomas, and may be served as a promising biomarker to guide therapy for cancer patients.

LncRNA FGF14-AS2 represses growth of prostate carcinoma cells via modulating miR-96-5p/AJAP1 axis

OBJECTIVE

This investigation devoted to lncRNA FGF14 antisense RNA 2 (FGF14-AS2) in prostate carcinoma progression.

METHODS

The levels of lncRNA FGF14-AS2, miR-96-5p, and Adherens junction-associated protein-1 (AJAP1) in prostate carcinoma were tested by Western blot and qRT-PCR. How these two genes interacted was confirmed by RNA immunoprecipitation and dualluciferase gene methods. The effect of FGF14-AS2/miR-96-5p/AJAP1 axis in prostate carcinoma progression was determined by MTT, Transwell, and nude mice tumor model.

RESULTS

FGF14-AS2 was a downregulated lncRNA in prostate carcinoma tissue and cells. FGF14-AS2 could restrain miR-96-5p expression while miR-96-5p hampered AJAP1. FGF14-AS2 could effectively decrease the biological behaviors of prostate carcinoma cells, while knock-down of FGF14-AS2 triggered opposite results. Moreover, miR-96-5p mimic presented a cancer promoter role in prostate carcinoma cells. AJAP1 expression level could affect levels of proteins related to epithelial-mesenchymal transition. In vivo experiment suggested that overexpressing FGF14-AS2 could reverse the promotion of silenced AJAP1 on prostate carcinoma cell metastasis, thus to inhibit tumor growth.

CONCLUSION

lncRNA FGF14-AS2 was a downregulated lncRNA in prostate carcinoma and influenced cell proliferation and metastasis. The influence relied on modulating miR-96-5p and its target gene AJAP1.

Small nucleolar RNA host genes promoting epithelial-mesenchymal transition lead cancer progression and metastasis

The small nucleolar RNA host genes (SNHGs) belong to the long non-coding RNAs and are reported to be able to influence all three levels of cellular information-bearing molecules, that is, DNA, RNA, and proteins, resulting in the generation of complex phenomena. As the host genes of the small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs), they are commonly localized in the nucleolus, where they exert multiple regulatory functions orchestrating cellular homeostasis and differentiation as well as metastasis and chemoresistance. Indeed, worldwide literature has reported their involvement in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of different histotypes of cancer, being able to exploit peculiar features, for example, the possibility to act both in the nucleus and the cytoplasm. Moreover, SNHGs regulation is a fundamental topic to better understand their role in tumor progression albeit such mechanism is still debated. Here, we reviewed the biological functions of SNHGs in particular in the EMT process and discussed the perspectives for new cancer therapies.

Silencing of PSMC2 inhibits development and metastasis of prostate cancer through regulating proliferation, apoptosis and migration

Background

Prostate cancer is the most common malignant tumor of male genitourinary system, molecular mechanism of which is still not clear. PSMC2 (proteasome 26S subunit ATPase 2) is a key member of the 19S regulatory subunit of 26S proteasome, whose relationship with prostate cancer is rarely studied.

Methods

Here, expression of PSMC2 in tumor tissues or cells of prostate cancer was detected by qPCR, western blotting and immunohistochemical analysis. The effects of PSMC2 knockdown on cell proliferation, colony formation, cell migration, cell cycle and apoptosis were assessed by Celigo cell counting assay, colony formation assay, wound-healing assay, Transwell assay and flow cytometry, respectively. The influence of PSMC2 knockdown on tumor growth in vivo was evaluated by mice xenograft models.

Results

The results demonstrated that PSMC2 was upregulated in tumor tissues of prostate cancer and its high expression was significantly associated with advanced Gleason grade and higher Gleason score. Knockdown of PSMC2 could inhibited cell proliferation, colony formation and cell migration of prostate cancer cells, while promoting cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. The suppression of tumor growth in vivo by PSMC2 knockdown was also showed by using mice xenograft models. Moreover, the regulation of prostate cancer by PSMC2 may be mediated by Akt/Cyclin D1/CDK6 signaling pathway.

Conclusions

Therefore, our studies suggested that PSMC2 may act as a tumor promotor in the development and progression of prostate cancer, and could be considered as a novel therapeutic target for prostate cancer treatment.

Long Noncoding RNA Small Nucleolar Host Gene: A Potential Therapeutic Target in Urological Cancers

The incidence of urological cancer has been gradually increasing in the last few decades. However, current diagnostic tools and treatment strategies continue to have limitations. Substantial evidence shows that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play essential roles in carcinogenesis and the progression, treatment response and prognosis of multiple human cancers, including urological cancers, gastrointestinal tumours, reproductive cancers and respiratory neoplasms. LncRNA small nucleolar RNA host genes (SNHGs), a subgroup of lncRNAs, have been found to be dysregulated in tumour cell biology. In this review, we summarize the impacts of lncRNA SNHGs in urological malignancies and the underlying mechanisms.

The Impact of Non-coding RNAs in the Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition

Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a course of action that enables a polarized epithelial cell to undertake numerous biochemical alterations that allow it to adopt features of mesenchymal cells such as high migratory ability, invasive properties, resistance to apoptosis, and importantly higher-order formation of extracellular matrix elements. EMT has important roles in implantation and gastrulation of the embryo, inflammatory reactions and fibrosis, and transformation of cancer cells, their invasiveness and metastatic ability. Regarding the importance of EMT in the invasive progression of cancer, this process has been well studies in in this context. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have been shown to exert critical function in the regulation of cellular processes that are involved in the EMT. These processes include regulation of some transcription factors namely SNAI1 and SNAI2, ZEB1 and ZEB2, Twist, and E12/E47, modulation of chromatin configuration, alternative splicing, and protein stability and subcellular location of proteins. In the present paper, we describe the influence of ncRNAs including microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs in the EMT process and their application as biomarkers for this process and cancer progression and their potential as therapeutic targets.

Non-Coding RNAs Set a New Phenotypic Frontier in Prostate Cancer Metastasis and Resistance

Prostate cancer (PCa) mortality remains a significant public health problem, as advanced disease has poor survivability due to the development of resistance in response to both standard and novel therapeutic interventions. Therapeutic resistance is a multifaceted problem involving the interplay of a number of biological mechanisms including genetic, signaling, and phenotypic alterations, compounded by the contributions of a tumor microenvironment that supports tumor growth, invasiveness, and metastasis. The androgen receptor (AR) is a primary regulator of prostate cell growth, response and maintenance, and the target of most standard PCa therapies designed to inhibit AR from interacting with androgens, its native ligands. As such, AR remains the main driver of therapeutic response in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). While androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), in combination with microtubule-targeting taxane chemotherapy, offers survival benefits in patients with mCRPC, therapeutic resistance invariably develops, leading to lethal disease. Understanding the mechanisms underlying resistance is critical to improving therapeutic outcomes and also to the development of biomarker signatures of predictive value. The interconversions between epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition (MET) navigate the prostate tumor therapeutic response, and provide a novel targeting platform in overcoming therapeutic resistance. Both microRNA (miRNA)- and long non-coding RNA (lncRNA)-mediated mechanisms have been associated with epigenetic changes in prostate cancer. This review discusses the current evidence-based knowledge of the role of the phenotypic transitions and novel molecular determinants (non-coding RNAs) as contributors to the emergence of therapeutic resistance and metastasis and their integrated predictive value in prostate cancer progression to advanced disease.

Identification of HCG18 and MCM3AP-AS1 That Associate With Bone Metastasis, Poor Prognosis and Increased Abundance of M2 Macrophage Infiltration in Prostate Cancer

Background:

Bone metastasis is a leading cause of the high mortality rate of prostate cancer (PCa), but curative strategies remain lacking. Recent studies suggest long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) may be potential targets to develop drugs. However, PCa bone metastasis-specifically-related lncRNAs were rarely reported. This study aimed to identify crucial lncRNAs and reveal their function mechanisms.

Methods:

GSE32269 and GSE26964 microarray datasets, downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, were used to analyze differentially expressed genes (DEGs)/lncRNAs (DELs) and miRNAs (DEMs), respectively. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis was performed to screen PCa bone metastasis-associated modules. The co-expression and competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) networks were constructed to identify hub lncRNAs. Univariate Cox regression analysis was conducted to determine their prognostic values. The correlation of lncRNAs with immune infiltrating cells was analyzed by using Tumor IMmune Estimation Resource. Therapeutic drugs were predicted by querying the Connectivity Map (CMap) and the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD).

Results:

A total of 18 DELs, 2,614 DEGs and 86 DEMs were screened between bone metastatic and primary PCa samples. Four modules enriched by DEGs were shown to be bone metastasis-associated. LncRNA HCG18 and MCM3AP-AS1 were identified to be important because they existed in both of the co-expression and ceRNA networks (forming the relationship pairs: HCG18/MCM3AP-AS1-KNTC1, MCM3AP-AS1-hsa-miR-508-3p-DTL and HCG18/MCM3AP-AS1-hsa-miR-127-3p-CDKN3). All the genes in these interaction pairs were significantly associated with overall survival of PCa patients. Also, HCG18, MCM3AP-AS1 and their target mRNAs were positively correlated with various tumor-infiltrated immune cells, especially increased M2 macrophages. Valproic acid and trichostatin A may be effective to treat PCa bone metastasis by targeting HCG18 and MCM3AP-AS1.

Conclusion:

HCG18 and MCM3AP-AS1 that regulate M2 macrophage infiltration may be important targets to treat PCa bone metastasis and improve prognosis.

LncRNA FEZF1-AS1 accelerates the migration and invasion of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma cells through miR-4497 targeting GBX2

BACKGROUND

MiR-4497 has been previously proved to exert an anti-cancer role in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) by negatively regulating gastrulation brain homeobox 2 (GBX2). However, the mechanism of miR-4497 in LSCC has yet to be fully elucidated. This study intended to investigate the role of FEZF1-AS1 in the migration and invasion of LSCC cells and clarified its mechanism through miR-4497 and GBX2.

METHODS

qPCR evaluated the expression of FEZF1-AS1, miR-4497 and GBX2 in LSCC tissues and cells, compared with controls. Western blotting analyzed GBX2, E-cadherin, N-cadherin and Vimentin. CCK8, wound healing and transwell assays assessed the viability, migration and invasion of TU686 and UM-SCC-17A cells. Luciferase reporter assay affirmed the interplay of miR-4497 with FEZF1-AS1 or GBX2 and Pearson's correlation analysis explored the association between each two genes in both tumor and non-tumor tissues.

RESULTS

FEZF1-AS1 was highly expressed in LSCC tissues and cells. Silence or elevation of FEZF1-AS1 inhibited or promoted the migration and invasion of TU686 and UM-SCC-17A cells. FEZF1-AS1 targeted and negatively modulated miR-4497. Inhibition of miR-4497 markedly restored the FEZF1-AS1 silence-repressed cell viability of TU686 and UM-SCC-17A cells. Further, FEZF1-AS1 could positively regulate GBX2 via negative regulation of miR-4497. In these two cells, GBX2 deficiency reversed the promoting impacts of miR-4497 repression on migration and invasion.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, FEZF1-AS1, heightened in LSCC tissues and cells, promotes cell migration and invasion of LSCC cells via targeting miR-4497 that inhibits GBX2. The finding may offer new options for the treatment of this cancer.

LncRNA SNHG7 sponges miR-449a to promote pituitary adenomas progression

This study aimed to characterize the expression status and potentially mechanistic involvement of SNHG7 in pituitary adenoma. Relative expression of SNHG7 and miR-449a was analyzed by real-time PCR. Cell viability was measured with Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8). Cell apoptosis was determined by PI/Annexin V double staining followed by flow cytometry analysis. Cell invasion and migration were analyzed by wound healing and transwell assays, respectively. The regulatory action of miR-449a on SNHG7 was interrogated by luciferase reporter assay. We also investigated the pro-tumor activity of SNHG7 with the MMQ xenograft tumor mouse model. We identified the aberrant up-regulation of SNHG7 in pituitary adenoma both in vivo and in vitro, which associated with poor survival outcome. siRNA-mediated SNHG7-knockdown decreased cell viability, increased apoptosis and compromised migration and invasion. We further predicted and validated that SNHG7 negatively regulated miR-449a via sponging. Concurrent inhibition of miR-449a restored cell viability, apoptosis, migration and invasion influenced by SNHG7-deficiency. Most importantly, we demonstrated that SNHG7-silencing delayed xenograft tumor progression, which was accompanied with increased miR-449a and decreased Ki67 intensity. Our study highlighted the essential oncogenic properties of the SNHG7/miR-449a axis in pituitary adenoma.

Long Noncoding RNA SNHG12 Promotes Prostate Tumor Occurrence and Progression via AKT Regulation

The small nucleolar RNA host gene 12 (SNHG12) has been reported to play an important role in the tumorigenesis and progression of PCa, but the functional underlying mechanism has not been studied clearly. We detected the expression level of SNHG12 in PCa tissues and matched adjacent normal tissues that were collected from 85 patients. Then, colony formation assays, MTT experiments, and flow cytometry were used to examine the effect of SNHG12 on proliferation, cell cycle distribution, and apoptosis of DU145 cells. Further, Transwell invasion assay was utilized to assess whether SNHG12 participates in PCa cell invasion and affects the secretion of VEGF secretion in DU145 cells. Finally, we investigated the effect of SNHG12 on tumor growth in vivo. We found that SNHG12 promoted cell proliferation and suppressed apoptosis in PCa cells, which suggests that SNHG12 is probably a novel PCa biomarker and therapy target of PCa.

RETRACTED: LncRNA GAS6-AS1 facilitates the progression of breast cancer by targeting the miR-324-3p/SETD1A axis to activate the PI3K/AKT pathway

This article has been retracted: please see Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal (http://www.elsevier.com/locate/withdrawalpolicy). This article has been retracted at the request of the current Editor in Chief, with the agreement of all authors. The article is being retracted due to inappropriate manipulation of the original data for presentation in Figures 2C, 5C and 6C. Upon further investigation and discussion with the authors, insufficient evidence was provided to support a reasonable explanation for these mistakes. In addition, the authors could not provide convincing original data supporting other figures of the manuscript, e.g. Figures 2G, 4 and 6A. Based on these findings, the Editor in Chief and the authors have decided to retract the study. The authors apologize for any inconvenience caused.

The role of long noncoding RNA SNHG7 in human cancers (Review)

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been demonstrated to serve important roles in a variety of human tumor types. The lncRNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 (SNHG7) is associated with a variety of cancer types, such as esophageal cancer, breast cancer and gastric neoplasia. Based on previous studies that examined SNHG7 expression in tumors, it has become clear that SNHG7 modulates tumorigenesis and cancer progression by acting as a competing endogenous RNA. SNHG7 can sponge tumor-suppressive microRNAs and regulate downstream signaling pathways. In addition, overexpression of SNHG7 is associated with the clinical characteristics of patients with cancer by regulating cellular proliferation, invasion and metastasis and by inhibiting apoptosis via a variety of mechanisms of action. The function of SNHG7 in tumorigenesis and cancer progression indicates that it can potentially act as a novel therapeutic target or a diagnostic biomarker for cancer therapy or detection, respectively.

Long Non-Coding Small Nucleolar RNA Host Genes (SNHGs) in Endocrine-Related Cancers

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging regulators of a diverse range of biological processes through various mechanisms. Genome-wide association studies of tumor samples have identified several lncRNAs, which act as either oncogenes or tumor suppressors in various types of cancers. Small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) are predominantly found in the nucleolus and function as guide RNAs for the processing of transcription. As the host genes of snoRNAs, lncRNA small nucleolar RNA host genes (SNHGs) have been shown to be abnormally expressed in multiple cancers and can participate in cell proliferation, tumor progression, metastasis, and chemoresistance. Here, we review the biological functions and emerging mechanisms of SNHGs involved in the development and progression of endocrine-related cancers including thyroid cancer, breast cancer, pancreatic cancer, ovarian cancer and prostate cancer.

MCM3AP-AS1/miR-876-5p/WNT5A axis regulates the proliferation of prostate cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Although the fact that long non-coding RNA MCM3AP antisense RNA 1 (MCM3AP-AS1) is oncogenic in several cancers is well documented, very few researchers investigate its expression and function in prostate cancer.

METHODS

Paired prostate cancer samples were selected, and expressions of MCM3AP-AS1, miR-876-5p and WNT5A were examined by qRT-PCR. MCM3AP-AS1 shRNA was transfected into LNCaP and PC-3 cell lines, and then the proliferative activity and apoptosis of cancer cells were detected by CCK-8 assay, EdU assay and flow cytometry analysis, respectively. qRT-PCR and Western blot were used to analyze the changes of miR-876-5p and WNT5A. Luciferase reporter gene assay was employed to determine the regulatory relationship between miR-876-5p and MCM3AP-AS1, miR-876-5p and WNT5A.

RESULTS

MCM3AP-AS1 was significantly up-regulated in cancerous tissues of prostate cancer samples, positively correlated with the expression of WNT5A, while negatively related with miR-876-5p. After transfection of MCM3AP-AS1 shRNA into prostate cancer cells, the proliferative ability of cancer cells was signally inhibited, but the apoptosis of cancer cells was increased. MCM3AP-AS1 shRNA could reduce the expression of WNT5A on both mRNA and protein levels. Besides, MCM3AP-AS1 was identified as a sponge of miR-876-5p. WNT5A was validated as a target gene of miR- 876-5p.

CONCLUSION

MCM3AP-AS1 is abnormally up-regulated in prostate cancer tissues and can modulate the proliferation and apoptosis of prostate cancer cells, which has the potential to be the "ceRNA" to regulate the expression of WNT5A by targeting miR-876-5p.

Long noncoding RNA UCA1 promotes cell growth, migration, and invasion by targeting miR-143-3p in oral squamous cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

The long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) urothelial carcinoma-associated 1 (UCA1) is dysregulated in many types of tumors; however, its role in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) remains unclear. This study aims to determine the effect of lncRNA UCA1 on OSCC.

METHODS

Fifty-six paired OSCC and adjacent nontumorous tissues were collected and the levels of UCA1, miR-143-3p, and MYO6 in the tissues were evaluated by qRT-PCR. In in vitro experiments, cell viability, migration, and invasion were measured by, respectively, performing CCK-8, wound healing, and transwell assays. The target relationships among UCA1, miR-143-3p, and MYO6 were verified by dual-luciferase assay. Western blot and immunohistochemistry were carried out to determine the protein levels. Xenograft mouse model was established to explore the effects of UCA1 in vivo.

RESULTS

Levels of UCA1 and MYO6 were increased significantly in OSCC, while the level of miR-143-3p was decreased compared with the adjacent nontumorous tissues. UCA1 promoted OSCC cell growth, migration, and invasion both in vitro and in vivo, while miR-143-3p reversed the progression. MYO6 was validated as a target for miR-143-3p, and MYO6 overexpression reversed the effects of miR-143-3p mimic on OSCC cells.

CONCLUSION

LncRNA UCA1 contributes to the proliferation and metastasis of OSCC cells by targeting miR-143-3p and upregulating its downstream gene MYO6. UCA1 could serve as a promising novel target therapy for treatment of OSCC.

LncRNA SNHG7 Functions as an Oncogene in Cervical Cancer by Sponging miR-485-5p to Modulate JUND Expression

BACKGROUND

Long non-coding RNA (LncRNA) SNHG7 is involved in the development of multiple cancers. However, its role in cervical cancer (CC) has not been elucidated. This study aimed to explore the function of SNHG7 in CC progression and the underlying mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The expression levels of SNHG7 and miR-485-5p in CC tissues and cell lines were measured by qPCR. Functional experiments including CCK-8 assay, wound healing assay, transwell assay, flow cytometry, Western blot, luciferases reporter assay and immunoprecipitation (RIP) were performed to explore the SNHG7/miR-485-5p/JUND pathway. Additionally, in vivo study was carried out by establishing tumor xenograft models.

RESULTS

We found that SNHG7 was markedly enhanced in CC tissues and cell lines, and associated with poor clinical characteristics. In vitro, knockdown of SNHG7 inhibited CC cell proliferation, migration and invasion, as well as aggravated cell apoptosis. As to mechanism investigation, rescue experiments revealed that miR-485-5p inhibitor could partially reverse the effects on CC cells induced by SNHG7 knockdown. SNHG7 upregulated JUND expression via miR-485-5p. Moreover, tumor xenograft models were established to confirm the findings in vivo.

CONCLUSION

SNHG7 promoted CC progression through miR-485-5p/JUND axis. The SNHG7/miR-485-5p/JUND pathway might provide a novel therapeutic target for CC treatment.

Long non-coding RNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 expression level in prostate cancer tissues predicts the prognosis of patients with prostate cancer

Long non-coding small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 (lncRNA SNHG7) is located on chromosome 9q34.3 in length of 984 bp. SNHG7 has been found to play the role of oncogene in varieties of cancers, and its dysregulation has been found to be associated with carcinogenesis and progression. In the present study, we examined the expression of SNHG7 in prostate cancer tissues and in paired adjacent normal prostate tissues, and we further explored the clinical significance and prognostic value of SNHG7 in prostate cancer patients.A total of 127 prostate cancer tissues were collected from prostate cancer patients who underwent radical prostatectomy between April 2011 and March 2019 at the department of urology, Pudong New Area People's Hospital. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction experiment was performed to detect the relative expressions of SNHG7 in the prostate cancer tissues and normal prostate tissues. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to create survival curves and the log-rank test was used to determine statistical significance. A Cox proportional hazard analysis was used to evaluate the prognostic factors in univariate and multivariate analyses.Compared with paired adjacent normal prostatic tissues, SNHG7 expression was increased in prostate cancer tissues (P < .001). Increased SNHG7 expression correlated with Gleason score (P = .021), bone metastasis (P = .013), pelvic lymph node metastasis (P = .008), and TNM stage (P = .007). Multivariate Cox regression analyses revealed increased SNHG7 expression was independently associated with a poor prognosis of prostate cancer patients (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.839, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.921-8.382, P = .038).This study showed that lncRNA-SNHG7 was overexpressed in prostate cancer tissues, and it might contributes to the development and progression of prostate cancer. Furthermore, the SNHG7 expression was associated with the prognosis of prostate cancer, suggesting a potential target for the treatment and prognosis of prostate cancer. Nevertheless, the underlying modulatory mechanism by which SNHG7 aggravates prostate cancer progression need to be further studied.

Long Noncoding RNA SNHG7, a Molecular Sponge for microRNA-485, Promotes the Aggressive Behavior of Cervical Cancer by Regulating PAK4

Purpose

A long noncoding RNA called small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 (SNHG7) is known to be a key regulator of biological processes in multiple human cancer types. In this study, our aims were to determine the expression status of SNHG7 in cervical cancer, to figure out the detailed roles of SNHG7 in cervical cancer cells, and to identify the mechanism underlying the activity of SNHG7 in cervical cancer.

Methods

Reverse-transcription quantitative PCR was performed to measure SNHG7 expression in cervical cancer. A Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, flow-cytometric analysis, cell migration and invasion assays, and a tumor xenograft experiment were conducted to respectively determine the effects of SNHG7 on cervical cancer cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion in vitro and tumor growth in vivo.

Results

SNHG7 was found to be markedly upregulated in cervical cancer tissues and cell lines. Higher SNHG7 expression significantly correlated with FIGO stage, lymph node metastasis, the depth of cervical invasion, and shorter overall survival in patients with cervical cancer. Functional experiments indicated that a SNHG7 knockdown attenuated proliferation, migration, and invasiveness and promoted apoptosis of cervical cancer cells in vitro. The SNHG7 knockdown also slowed tumor growth in vivo. Further investigation showed that SNHG7 acts as a competing endogenous RNA for microRNA-485 (miR-485) in cervical cancer cells, and the inhibitory actions of the SNHG7 knockdown on the malignant phenotype were reversed by miR-485 inhibition. P21-activated kinase 4 (PAK4) was identified as a direct target gene of miR-485 in cervical cancer, and PAK4 expression was promoted by SNHG7.

Conclusion

SNHG7 functions as an oncogenic RNA in cervical cancer, competitively binds to miR-485, and thereby upregulates PAK4. This SNHG7–miR-485–PAK4 regulatory network may provide insights into the pathogenesis of cervical cancer, and can help in the identification of novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for cervical cancer.

LncRNA FGD5-AS1 can be predicted as therapeutic target in oral cancer

BACKGROUND

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been extensively studied to participate in the carcinogenesis of various tumors. LncRNA FGD5-AS1 has been studied as an oncogene in several cancers; however, the role it plays in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) still remains unclear.

METHODS

Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to assess relevant RNAs expression. CCK-8 and colony formation were combined to investigate cell proliferation. Flow cytometry was implemented to test the apoptosis of cell. Wound healing assay and transwell assays were conducted to investigate cell migration and invasion. Western blot assay was conducted to measure relevant protein expression.

RESULTS

FGD5-AS1 expression was aberrantly up-regulated in OSCC tissue and cells. FDG5-AS1 up-regulation induced USP21 overexpression advances OSCC development. Knockdown of FGD5-AS1 inhibited cell growth, migration, and invasion, yet promoted apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

FGD5-AS1 regulates OSCC via competitively binding to miR-520b against USP21. It could become a potential diagnostic biomarker for OSCC.

SNHG7 Facilitates Glioblastoma Progression by Functioning as a Molecular Sponge for MicroRNA-449b-5p and Thereby Increasing MYCN Expression

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Long noncoding RNA (small nucleolar RNA host gene 7) has been reported to be involved in multiple malignancies and acts as an oncogene. However, the potential mechanism of small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 in glioblastoma is rarely known. In this study, we attempted to elucidate the biological effects of small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 and the possible molecular mechanism in glioblastoma.

METHODS

The expression level of small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 in glioblastoma tissues and corresponding tumor cell lines was evaluated by using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Bioinformatics analyses and dual-luciferase reporter gene assay were conducted to verify the correlation among small nucleolar RNA host gene 7, miR-449b-5p, and MYCN. The role of small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 on cell viability, migration, and invasion was measured.

RESULTS

Small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 expression was markedly increased in glioblastoma tumor tissue. Small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 can sponge miR-449b-5p and negatively regulate miR-449b-5p expression. MiR-449b-5p was remarkably repressed in glioblastoma tissues. Reduction of miR-449b-5p reversed the repressive effects of small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 knockdown on cellular behaviors in glioblastoma. In addition, miR-449b-5p can directly bind with MYCN. Compared with normal samples, MYCN expression was increased. The MYCN expression was negatively related to miR-449b-5p expression while positively related to small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 expression. Rescue experiments revealed that MYCN overexpression reversed the repressive role of small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 knockdown on viability, migration, and invasion of U251 cells.

CONCLUSION

In summary, our results demonstrated that small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 regulates glioblastoma proliferation, migration, and invasion via regulating miR-449b-5p and its target gene MYCN, thereby providing a potential therapeutic target for glioblastoma.

Long Noncoding RNA (lncRNA) FOXD2-AS1 Promotes Cell Proliferation and Metastasis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Regulating MiR-185/AKT Axis

BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to investigate the effects and mechanisms of long noncoding (lnc) RNA FOXD2-AS1 in hepatocellular carcinoma development. MATERIAL AND METHODS Collecting the 3 pairs of adjacent and hepatocellular carcinoma tissue and analysis by gene chip. Evaluating the FOXD2-AS1 expression by in situ hybridization assay. Evaluating the FOXD2-AS1 to Bel-7402 biological activity in vitro study by Cell Counting Kit-8, flow cytometry, Transwell and wound healing assay and correlation between miR-185 by dual-luciferase reporter assay. The relative proteins expressions were evaluated by western blot assay. RESULTS FOXD2-AS1 was significantly upregulation in hepatocellular carcinoma tissues. FOXD2-AS1 knockdown suppressed Bel-7401 cell biological activities (proliferation, invasion, and migration) with miR-185 overexpression and AKT depressing in cell expression. CONCLUSIONS LncRNA FOXD2-AS1 promoted hepatocellular carcinoma development by regulation miR-185/AKT axis.

SNHG7 accelerates cell migration and invasion through regulating miR-34a-Snail-EMT axis in gastric cancer

Small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 (SNHG7) is a newly recognized oncogenic Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) in most human cancers. In gastric cancer, SNHG7 has been suggested to enhance cell proliferation and suppressed apoptosis through down-regulating P15 and P16 expression, but the effect of SNHG7 on gastric cancer cell migration and invasion was still unknown. In our study, we aimed to estimate the relationship between SNHG7 expression and clinical and pathological characteristics, and explore the effect of SNHG7 on gastric cancer cell migration and invasion. In our study, the levels of SNHG7 expression in gastric cancer tissues and cell lines were severally higher than in normal adjacent tissues and gastric mucosal epithelial cells. Moreover, high SNHG7 expression was positively correlated with TNM stage, depth of invasion, lymph-node metastasis and distant metastasis in gastric cancer patients. Furthermore, the multivariate Cox proportional hazard analysis further showed high SNHG7 expression was an independent poor prognostic factor for overall survival in gastric cancer patients. The studies in vitro revealed that SNHG7 directly binds to miR-34a and negatively regulates miR-34a expression, and SNHG7 enhances gastric cancer cell migration and invasion through suppressing miR-34a-Snail-EMT axis. In conclusion, SNHG7 functions as oncogenic lncRNA in gastric cancer and may be a potential therapeutic target for gastric cancer patients.Abbreviations: lncRNA: Long non-coding RNA; SNHG7: Small nucleolar RNA host gene 7; EMT: Epithelial mesenchymal transition; TNM: Tumor-Lymph Node-Metastasis.

Long noncoding RNA SNHG7 contributes to cell proliferation, migration, invasion and epithelial to mesenchymal transition in non-small cell lung cancer by regulating miR-449a/TGIF2 axis

Background

Non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is an intractable malignant lung cancer with high rates of metastasis and mortality. Currently, long noncoding RNA nuclear RNA host gene 7 (SNHG7) is recognized as a biomarker of multiple cancers. However, the role of SNHG7 in NSCLC requires further understanding.

Methods

The expression of SNHG7, miR‐449a and TGIF2 in NSCLC tumors and cells was examined by quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). Cell viability was measured by MTT assay. Cell migration and invasion was conducted using transwell assay. Protein expression of TGIF2, vimentin, N‐cadherin and E‐cadherin was detected by western blot. The interaction between miR‐449a and SNHG7 or TGIF2 was determined by luciferase reporter system, RIP and RNA pull‐down assay, respectively. Xenograft mice models were established by subcutaneously injecting A549 cells transfected with sh‐SNHG7 and sh‐control.

Results

SNHG7 expression was upregulated in NSCLC tumors and cells compared with normal tissues and cells. SNHG7 silencing repressed cell proliferation, migration, invasion and epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) in NSCLC. Consistently, SNHG7 knockdown hindered tumor growth in vivo. The subsequent luciferase reporter system, RIP and RNA pull‐down assay validated the interaction between miR‐449a and SNHG7 or TGIF2. The rescue experiments displayed that miR‐449a inhibitor counteracted SNHG7 silencing induced inhibition on proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT. Similarly, restoration of TGIF2 reversed miR‐449a mediated inhibition on cell progression. In addition, the results indicated that SNHG7 could regulate cell progression by targeting miR‐449a/TGIF2 axis.

Conclusion

SNHG7 contributed to cell proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT in NSCLC by upregulating TGIF2 via sponging miR‐449a, representing a novel targeted therapy method for NSCLC.