miR-30c regulates proliferation, apoptosis and differentiation via the Shh signaling pathway in P19 cells

Hydrogen sulfide plays an important role by regulating microRNA in different ischemia-reperfusion injury

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are the short endogenous non-coding RNAs that regulate the expression of the target gene at posttranscriptional level through degrading or inhibiting the specific target messenger RNAs (mRNAs). MiRNAs regulate the expression of approximately one-third of protein coding genes, and in most cases inhibit gene expression. MiRNAs have been reported to regulate various biological processes, such as cell proliferation, apoptosis and differentiation. Therefore, miRNAs participate in multiple diseases, including ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) was once considered as a colorless, toxic and harmful gas with foul smelling. However, in recent years, it has been discovered that it is the third gas signaling molecule after carbon monoxide (CO) and nitric oxide (NO), with multiple important biological functions. Increasing evidence indicates that H2S plays a vital role in I/R injury through regulating miRNA, however, the mechanism has not been fully understood. In this review, we summarized the current knowledge about the role of H2S in I/R injury by regulating miRNAs, and analyzed its mechanism in detail.

Circulating microRNAs and cardiomyocyte proliferation in heart failure patients related to 10 years survival

AIMS

Mechanochemical signalling drives organogenesis and is highly conserved in mammal evolution. Regaining recovery in myocardial jeopardy by inducing principles linking cardiovascular therapy and clinical outcome has been the dream of scientists for decades. Concepts involving embryonic pathways to regenerate adult failing hearts became popular in the early millennium. Since then, abundant data on stem cell research have been published, never reaching widespread application in heart failure therapy. Another conceptual access, using mechanotransduction in cardiac veins to limit myocardial decay, is pressure-controlled intermittent coronary sinus occlusion (PICSO). Recently, we reported acute molecular signs and signals of PICSO activating regulatory miRNA and inducing cell proliferation mimicking cardiac development in adult failing hearts. According to a previously formulated hypothesis, 'embryonic recall', this study aimed to define molecular signals involved in endogenous heart repair during PICSO and study their relation to patient survival.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We previously reported a study on the acute molecular effects of PICSO in an observational non-randomized study. Eight out of the thirty-two patients with advanced heart failure undergoing cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) were treated with PICSO. Survival was monitored over 10 years, and coronary sinus blood samples were collected during intervention before and after 20 min and tested for miRNA signalling and proliferation when co-cultured with cardiomyocytes. A numerically lower death rate post-CRT and PICSO as compared with control CRT only, and a non-significant reduction in all-cause mortality risk of 42% was observed (37.5% vs. 54.0%, relative risk = 0.58, 95% confidence interval: 0.17-2.05; P = 0.402). Four miRNAs involved in cell cycle, proliferation, morphogenesis, embryonic development, and apoptosis significantly increased concomitantly in survivors and PICSO compared with a decrease in non-survivors (hsa-miR Let7b, P < 0.01; hsa-miR- 421, P < 0.006; hsa-miR 363-3p, P < 0.03 and hsa-miR 19b-3p P < 0.01). In contrast, three miRNAs involved in proliferation and survival, determining cell fate, and recycling endosomes decreased in survivors and PICSO (hsa miR 101-3p, P < 0.03; hsa-miR 25-3p, P < 002; hsa-miR 30d-5p P < 0.04). In vitro cellular proliferation increased in survivors and lowered in non-survivors showing a pattern distinction, discriminating longevity according to up to 10-year survival in heart failure patients.

CONCLUSIONS

This study proposes that generating regenerative signals observed during PICSO intervention relate to patient outcomes. Morphogenetic pathways induced by periods of flow reversal in cardiac veins in a domino-like pattern transform embryonic into regenerative signals. Studies supporting the conversion of mechanochemical signals into regenerative molecules during PICSO are warranted to substantiate predictive power on patient longevity, opening new therapeutic avenues in otherwise untreatable heart failure.

High expression of miR-30c-5p in satellite cells of high-fat diet-induced obese rabbits inhibited satellite cell proliferation and promoted differentiation

It was revealed in our previous study that the expression of miR-30c-5p in the skeletal muscle of rabbits fed high-fat diet was highly expressed. In the present study, we further investigated the function of miR-30c-5p in proliferation and differentiation of skeletal muscle satellite cell (SMSC). The results obtained in the present study showed that the skeletal muscle fibers of the rabbits fed the standard normal diet (SND) were orderly, regular, and uniform after HE staining, however, the muscle fibers of the rabbits fed the high-fat diet (HFD) were generally atrophied, some were arranged disorderly, the intercellular space was enlarged, the nucleus was increased, and the morphology and position were abnormal. Compared with the SND group, it was observed that the weekly weight gain and fat percentage were relatively higher, and also the levels of the serum biochemical indexes such as glucose, cholesterol, and triglyceride increased significantly in the rabbits fed with HFD. In addition, the results after the transfection of miR-30c-5p mimic, mimic NC (negative control), miR-30c-5p inhibitor, and inhibitor NC into the SMSCs showed that the cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) proliferation experiment suggested that the number of cells in the over expression group was significantly lower than that in the mimic NC group at 48, 72, 96 h of cell proliferation. At 48, 72, 120 h, the number of cells in the inhibitor group was significantly higher than that in the mimic NC group. The number of EdU positive cells decreased significantly in the over expression group compared with the mimic NC group, however, it increased significantly in the inhibitor group compared with the inhibitor NC group. Moreover, compared with the mimic NC group, the myotube area increased significantly in the miR-30c-5p mimic group, whereas it decreased significantly in the miR-30c-5p inhibitor group as compared with the inhibitor NC group. In addition, we found that trinucleotide repeat containing adaptor 6A (TNRC6A) was successfully validated as a target gene for miR-30c-5p. The expression of TNRC6A in the miR-30c-5p mimic group was significantly lower than that in the mimic NC group. It was further observed that the expression of TNRC6A increased significantly in the miR-30c-5p inhibitor group as compared to that in the inhibitor NC group. Taken together, the results obtained in this study showed that miR-30c-5p promotes the differentiation as well as inhibits the proliferation of rabbit skeletal muscle satellite cells, and TNRC6A is a target gene of miR-30c-5p.

Agomir-331 Suppresses Reactive Gliosis and Neuroinflammation after Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injury usually triggers glial scar formation, neuroinflammation, and neurodegeneration. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these pathological features are largely unknown. Using a mouse model of hippocampal stab injury (HSI), we observed that miR-331, a brain-enriched microRNA, was significantly downregulated in the early stage (0-7 days) of HSI. Intranasal administration of agomir-331, an upgraded product of miR-331 mimics, suppressed reactive gliosis and neuronal apoptosis and improved cognitive function in HSI mice. Finally, we identified IL-1β as a direct downstream target of miR-331, and agomir-331 treatment significantly reduced IL-1β levels in the hippocampus after acute injury. Our findings highlight, for the first time, agomir-331 as a pivotal neuroprotective agent for early rehabilitation of HSI.

Total saponins from Trillium tschonoskii Maxim promote neurological recovery in model rats with post-stroke cognitive impairment

Total saponins from Trillium tschonoskii Maxim (TSTT), a bioactive component of local natural herbs in the Enshi area, China, have been demonstrated to have functions of restoring cognitive capacity and promoting axonal regeneration post-stroke, but the mechanism of this process remains unclear. The hippocampus is a critical tissue for controlling learning and memory capacity, and the sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling pathway plays a major role in the patterning and synaptic plasticity of hippocampal neural circuits. Therefore, we aimed to investigate whether TSTT could restore learning and cognitive functions by modulating the Shh pathway in rats with post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI). The ischemia model was established by permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) in 100 Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, and the model rats were administered using TSTT (100 mg/kg) or donepezil hydrochloride as the positive control (daily 0.45 mg/kg, DON) for 4 weeks after the operation. As assessed by the Morris water maze test, the cognitive function of PSCI rats was significantly improved upon TSTT treatment. Meanwhile, the cerebral infarct volume reduced with TSTT, as shown by HE and TTC staining, and the number of Nissl bodies and dendritic spine density were significantly increased, as shown by Nissl and Golgi staining. In addition, TSTT upregulated PSD-95, SYN, and GAP-43, and inhibited neuronal apoptosis, as evidenced by increased Bcl-2 levels along with decreased Bax and caspase-3 expression. TSTT could also significantly upregulate Shh, Ptch1, Smo, and Gli1 proteins, indicating the activation of the Shh signaling pathway. Therefore, TSTT can protect PSCI rats by inhibiting apoptosis and promoting neuronal synaptic remodeling. The Shh pathway is also involved.

Maternal body fluid lncRNAs serve as biomarkers to diagnose ventricular septal defect: from amniotic fluid to plasma

Background: Maternal body fluids contain abundant cell-free fetal RNAs which have the potential to serve as indicators of fetal development and pathophysiological conditions. In this context, this study aimed to explore the potential diagnostic value of maternal circulating long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in ventricular septal defect (VSD). Methods: The potential of lncRNAs as non-invasive prenatal biomarkers for VSD was evaluated using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. The biological processes and regulatory network of these lncRNAs were elucidated through bioinformatics analysis. Results: Three lncRNAs (LINC00598, LINC01551, and GATA3-AS1) were found to be consistent in both maternal plasma and amniotic fluid. These lncRNAs exhibited strong diagnostic performance for VSD, with AUC values of 0.852, 0.957, and 0.864, respectively. The bioinformatics analysis revealed the involvement of these lncRNAs in heart morphogenesis, actin cytoskeleton organization, cell cycle regulation, and protein binding through a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network at the post-transcriptional level. Conclusion: The cell-free lncRNAs present in the amniotic fluid have the potential to be released into the maternal circulation, making them promising candidates for investigating epigenetic regulation in VSD.

Epigenetic Modification Factors and microRNAs Network Associated with Differentiation of Embryonic Stem Cells and Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells toward Cardiomyocytes: A Review

More research is being conducted on myocardial cell treatments utilizing stem cell lines that can develop into cardiomyocytes. All of the forms of cardiac illnesses have shown to be quite amenable to treatments using embryonic (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). In the present study, we reviewed the differentiation of these cell types into cardiomyocytes from an epigenetic standpoint. We also provided a miRNA network that is devoted to the epigenetic commitment of stem cells toward cardiomyocyte cells and related diseases, such as congenital heart defects, comprehensively. Histone acetylation, methylation, DNA alterations, N6-methyladenosine (m⁶a) RNA methylation, and cardiac mitochondrial mutations are explored as potential tools for precise stem cell differentiation.

Emerging Role of MicroRNA-30c in Neurological Disorders

MicroRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) are a class of small non-coding RNAs that negatively regulate the expression of target genes by interacting with 3' untranslated regions of target mRNAs to induce mRNA degradation and translational repression. The miR-30 family members are involved in the development of many tissues and organs and participate in the pathogenesis of human diseases. As a key member of the miR-30 family, miR-30c has been implicated in neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and stroke. Mechanistically, miR-30c may act as a multi-functional regulator of different pathogenic processes such as autophagy, apoptosis, endoplasmic reticulum stress, inflammation, oxidative stress, thrombosis, and neurovascular function, thereby contributing to different disease states. Here, we review and discuss the biogenesis, gene regulation, and the role and mechanisms of action of miR-30c in several neurological disorders and therapeutic potential in clinics.

Stem cell therapy in the treatment of organic and dysfunctional endometrial pathology

BACKGROUND

Intrauterine adhesions caused by postpartum curettage, spontaneous abortions, interrupted pregnancies, endometrial ablations, infections and inflammations, can lead to a loss of endometrial function, with consequent hypomenorrhea and infertility in women of reproductive age. In a non-negligible percentage of cases, the available surgical methods and hormone therapy, with sequential administration of estrogen and progesterone, are ineffective. In fact, severe damage to the basal layer of the endometrium causes the loss of endometrial cell precursors and leads to the failure of regeneration of the functional layer to which the endometrium is cyclically exposed. Today, many researchers are evaluating the use of stem cells of different origins as a potential therapy to restore endometrial function.

METHODS

Our interest has been focused on adipose-derived stromal/stem cells (ADSCs) obtained by collecting subcutaneous adipose tissue and subsequently treating it with the MilliGraft^® method. This procedure produces a cell suspension, the stromal vascular fraction (SVF), which includes ADSCs and soluble factors such as proteins and extracellular vesicles (exosomes). The SVF thus obtained was characterized in its cellular composition and its functional factors. Our clinical protocol for the future use of adipose tissue in endometrial regeneration in its different phases is presented.

RESULTS

The data obtained, even though they still require further support and implementation, show the regenerative properties of SVF obtained from adipose tissue using a mechanical method.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings can contribute to the development of cell therapies using stem cells of different derivations which are increasingly being utilized in the treatment of endometrial lesions from adherent or dysfunctional pathologies.

Genetic Variations miR-10aA>T, miR-30cA>G, miR-181aT>C, and miR-499bA>G and the Risk of Recurrent Pregnancy Loss in Korean Women

This study investigated the genetic association between recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) and microRNA (miRNA) polymorphisms in miR-10aA>T, miR-30cA>G, miR-181aT>C, and miR-499bA>G in Korean women. Blood samples were collected from 381 RPL patients and 281 control participants, and genotyping of miR-10aA>T, miR-30cA>G, miR-181aT>C, and miR-499bA>G was carried out by TaqMan miRNA RT-Real Time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Four polymorphisms were identified, including miR-10aA>T, miR-30cA>G, miR-181aT>C, and miR-499bA>G. MiR-10a dominant model (AA vs. AT + TT) and miR-499bGG genotypes were associated with increased RPL risk (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.520, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.038−2.227, p = 0.032; AOR = 2.956, 95% CI = 1.168−7.482, p = 0.022, respectively). Additionally, both miR-499 dominant (AA vs. AG + GG) and recessive (AA + AG vs. GG) models were significantly associated with increased RPL risk (AOR = 1.465, 95% CI = 1.062−2.020, p = 0.020; AOR = 2.677, 95% CI = 1.066−6.725, p = 0.036, respectively). We further propose that miR-10aA>T, miR-30cA>G, and miR-499bA>G polymorphisms effects could contribute to RPL and should be considered during RPL patient evaluation.

Emerging role of non-coding RNAs in the regulation of Sonic Hedgehog signaling pathway

Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) signaling cascade is one of the complex signaling pathways that control the accurately organized developmental processes in multicellular organisms. This pathway has fundamental roles in the tumor formation and induction of resistance to conventional therapies. Numerous non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have been found to interact with Shh pathway to induce several pathogenic processes, including malignant and non-malignant disorders. Many of the Shh-interacting ncRNAs are oncogenes whose expressions have been increased in diverse malignancies. A number of Shh-targeting miRNAs such as miR-26a, miR-1471, miR-129-5p, miR-361-3p, miR-26b-5p and miR-361-3p have been found to be down-regulated in tumor tissues. In addition to malignant conditions, Shh-interacting ncRNAs can affect tissue regeneration and development of neurodegenerative disorders. XIST, LOC101930370, lncRNA-Hh, circBCBM1, SNHG6, LINC‐PINT, TUG1 and LINC01426 are among long non-coding RNAs/circular RNAs that interact with Shh pathway. Moreover, miR-424, miR-26a, miR-1471, miR-125a, miR-210, miR-130a-5p, miR-199b, miR-155, let-7, miR-30c, miR-326, miR-26b-5p, miR-9, miR-132, miR-146a and miR-425-5p are among Shh-interacting miRNAs. The current review summarizes the interactions between ncRNAs and Shh in these contexts.

SRF-derived miR210 and miR30c both repress beating cardiomyocyte formation in the differentiation system of embryoid body

Serum response factor (SRF) cooperates with various co-factors to manage the specification of diverse cell lineages during heart development. Many microRNAs mediate the function of SRF in this process. However, how are miR210 and miR30c involved in the decision of cardiac cell fates remains to be explored. In this study, we found that SRF directly controlled the cardiac expression of miR210. Both miR210 and miR30c blocked the formation of beating cardiomyocyte during embryoid body (EB) differentiation, a cellular model widely used for studying cardiogenesis. Both of anticipated microRNA targets and differentially expressed genes in day8 EBs were systematically determined and enriched with gene ontology (GO), Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) and Reactome. Functional enrichments of prediction microRNA targets and down-regulated genes in day8 EBs of miR210 suggested the importance of PI3K-Akt signal and ETS2 in miR210 inhibition of cardiomyocyte differentiation. Similar analyses revealed that miR30c repressed both developmental progress and the adrenergic signaling in cardiomyocytes during the differentiation of EBs. Taken together, SRF directs the expression of miR210 and miR30c, and they repress cardiac development via inhibiting the differentiation of cardiac muscle cell lineage as well as the cell proliferation. Through the regulation of specific microRNAs, the complication of SRF's function in heart development is emphasized.

Expression profiles of circular RNA in human placental villus and decidua and prediction of drugs for recurrent spontaneous abortion

PROBLEM

We aimed to evaluate potential biomarkers and candidate drugs for recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) and explore functional circular RNA pathways involved in regulating RSA.

METHOD OF STUDY

Expression profiles of placental villus and decidua samples derived from females with RSA and those with healthy pregnancies who underwent induced abortion were analyzed using high-throughput RNA whole transcriptome sequencing. Abnormally expressed circular RNAs in a larger cohort of samples were validated using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Drug discovery and molecular docking were performed using online databases and the Autodock tool, respectively.

RESULTS

In total, 2103 and 2160 circular RNAs were detected in three pairs of villi and three pairs of decidual tissues, respectively. A total of 22 circular RNAs, 58 miRNAs, and 393 mRNAs with significantly different expression patterns were identified. Five circular RNAs were verified, and the expression of hsa_circ_0088485 was significantly upregulated in the RSA group (P = .041) with a high area under the curve value (.727), sensitivity (76.5%), and specificity (64.7%). GO and KEGG enrichment analyses indicated that differentially expressed genes were associated with angiogenesis and cell adhesion. Drug discovery and molecular docking were analyzed based on 93 differentially expressed mRNAs of the ceRNA network. A total of 36 chemicals were identified as putative bioactive molecules for RSA, and one representative chemical was identified for docking with six proteins.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings provide novel insights into the mechanism of regulation of RSA by circular RNA and its clinical diagnosis and treatment.

Dissection of the microRNA Network Regulating Hedgehog Signaling in Drosophila

The evolutionarily conserved Hedgehog (Hh) signaling plays a critical role in embryogenesis and adult tissue homeostasis. Aberrant Hh signaling often leads to various forms of developmental anomalies and cancer. Since altered microRNA (miRNA) expression is associated with developmental defects and tumorigenesis, it is not surprising that several miRNAs have been found to regulate Hh signaling. However, these miRNAs are mainly identified through small-scale in vivo screening or in vitro assays. As miRNAs preferentially reduce target gene expression via the 3' untranslated region, we analyzed the effect of reduced expression of core components of the Hh signaling cascade on downstream signaling activity, and generated a transgenic Drosophila toolbox of in vivo miRNA sensors for core components of Hh signaling, including hh, patched (ptc), smoothened (smo), costal 2 (cos2), fused (fu), Suppressor of fused (Su(fu)), and cubitus interruptus (ci). With these tools in hand, we performed a genome-wide in vivo miRNA overexpression screen in the developing Drosophila wing imaginal disc. Of the twelve miRNAs identified, seven were not previously reported in the in vivo Hh regulatory network. Moreover, these miRNAs may act as general regulators of Hh signaling, as their overexpression disrupts Hh signaling-mediated cyst stem cell maintenance during spermatogenesis. To identify direct targets of these newly discovered miRNAs, we used the miRNA sensor toolbox to show that miR-10 and miR-958 directly target fu and smo, respectively, while the other five miRNAs act through yet-to-be-identified targets other than the seven core components of Hh signaling described above. Importantly, through loss-of-function analysis, we found that endogenous miR-10 and miR-958 target fu and smo, respectively, whereas deletion of the other five miRNAs leads to altered expression of Hh signaling components, suggesting that these seven newly discovered miRNAs regulate Hh signaling in vivo. Given the powerful effects of these miRNAs on Hh signaling, we believe that identifying their bona fide targets of the other five miRNAs will help reveal important new players in the Hh regulatory network.

Expression Profile of Circulating MicroRNAs in Dogs With Cardiac Hypertrophy: A Pilot Study

This study aimed to identify the expression profile of circulating microRNAs in dogs with eccentric or concentric cardiac hypertrophy. A total of 291 microRNAs in serum samples of five dogs with myxomatous mitral valve degeneration (MMVD) and five dogs with pulmonic stenosis (PS) were compared with those of five healthy dogs using microarray analysis. Results of microarray analysis revealed up-regulation of cfa-miR-130b [fold change (FC) = 2.13, p = 0.014), down-regulation of cfa-miR-375 (FC = 1.51, p = 0.014), cfa-miR-425 (FC = 2.56, p = 0.045), cfa-miR-30d (FC = 3.02, p = 0.047), cfa-miR-151 (FC = 1.89, p = 0.023), cfa-miR-19b (FC = 3.01, p = 0.008), and cfa-let-7g (FC = 2.53, p = 0.015) in MMVD group which showed eccentric cardiac hypertrophy, up-regulation of cfa-miR-346 (FC = 2.74, p = 0.032), down-regulation of cfa-miR-505 (FC = 1.56, p = 0.016) in PS group which showed concentric cardiac hypertrophy, and down-regulation of cfa-miR-30c (FC = 3.45, p = 0.013 in MMVD group; FC = 3.31, p = 0.014 in PS group) and cfa-let-7b (FC = 11.42, p = 0.049 in MMVD group; FC = 5.88, p = 0.01 in PS group) in both MMVD and PS groups. In addition, the unsupervised hierarchical clustering of differentially expressed microRNAs in each group resulted in complete separation of healthy dogs from dogs with heart diseases. Therefore, eleven microRNAs among 291 microRNAs were identified as differentially expressed circulating microRNAs related to MMVD or PS in dogs. This pilot study demonstrates that the microRNAs identified in this study could be possible candidates for novel biomarker or therapeutic target related to cardiac hypertrophy in dogs.

miR-30c-1 encourages human corneal endothelial cells to regenerate through ameliorating senescence

In the present study, we studied the role of microRNA-30c-1 (miR-30c-1) on transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF-β1)-induced senescence of hCECs. hCECs were transfected by miR-30c-1 and treated with TGF-β1 to assess the inhibitory effect of miR-30c-1 on TGF-β1-induced senescence. Cell viability and proliferation rate in miR-30c-1-transfected cells was elevated compared with control. Cell cycle analysis revealed that cell abundance in S phase was elevated in miR-30c-1-treated cells compared with control. TGF-β1 increased the senescence of hCECs; however, this was ameliorated by miR-30c-1. TGF-β1 increased the size of hCECs, the ratio of senescence-associated beta-galactosidase-stained cells, secretion of senescence-associated secretory phenotype factors, the oxidative stress, and arrested the cell cycle, all of which were ameliorated by miR-30c-1 treatment. miR-30c-1 also suppressed a TGF-β1-induced depolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential and a TGF-β1 stimulated increase in levels of cleaved poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), cleaved caspase 3, and microtubule-associated proteins 1A/1B light chain 3B II. In conclusion, miR-30c-1 promoted the proliferation of hCECs through ameliorating the TGF- β1-induced senescence of hCECs and reducing cell death of hCECs. Thus, miR-30c-1 may be a therapeutic target for hCECs regeneration.

MicroRNA-155 is upregulated in the placentas of patients with preeclampsia and affects trophoblast apoptosis by targeting SHH/GLi1/BCL2

The pathogenesis of preeclampsia (PE) is complicated and multiple risk factors have been associated with its occurrence. Still, the underlying molecular mechanisms involved in PE remain elusive. Aberrant apoptosis and insufficient invasion of trophoblasts have been observed and are considered vital pathological features in PE. Herein, we found that miR-155 can specifically degrade the mRNA of the Hedgehog ligand sonic hedgehog (SHH), using dual luciferase reporter assays. Quantitative real-time PCR found that administering miR-155 mimics or inhibitors could significantly decrease or increase the expression of SHH in the trophoblasts, respectively. The transcription levels of miR-155 in the placenta were higher in patients with PE compared to the levels in healthy pregnant women, as shown by quantitative real-time PCR. Serum levels of miR-155 could predict the diagnosis of PE by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis and diagnosis evaluation tests. A significant increase in apoptosis was observed after administering miR-155 in HTR8/SVneo cells cultured ex vivo, accompanied by reduced proliferation. Mechanistically, transcriptional activity and expression of GLi1 were also inhibited under treatment of miR-155, and could be recovered after supplying additional recombinant human SHH to primary trophoblasts from patients, as determined by luciferase activity assays and western blotting. We further found that inhibiting miR-155 increased the production of SHH and improved the phenotype in primary trophoblasts from patients with PE. Our data show that miR-155 regulates apoptosis of trophoblasts in PE, which has potential value for predicting PE risk and might be deemed as a therapeutic target for treating PE.

Fumonisin B1 Epigenetically Regulates PTEN Expression and Modulates DNA Damage Checkpoint Regulation in HepG2 Liver Cells

Fumonisin B₁ (FB₁), a Fusarium-produced mycotoxin, is found in various foods and feeds. It is a well-known liver carcinogen in experimental animals; however, its role in genotoxicity is controversial. The current study investigated FB₁-triggered changes in the epigenetic regulation of PTEN and determined its effect on DNA damage checkpoint regulation in human liver hepatoma G2 (HepG2) cells. Following treatment with FB₁ (IC₅₀: 200 µM; 24 h), the expression of miR-30c, KDM5B, PTEN, H3K4me3, PI3K, AKT, p-ser473-AKT, CHK1, and p-ser280-CHK1 was measured using qPCR and/or Western blot. H3K4me3 enrichment at the PTEN promoter region was assayed via a ChIP assay and DNA damage was determined using an ELISA. FB₁ induced oxidative DNA damage. Total KDM5B expression was reduced, which subsequently increased the total H3K4me3 and the enrichment of H3K4me3 at PTEN promoters. Increased H3K4me3 induced an increase in PTEN transcript levels. However, miR-30c inhibited PTEN translation. Thus, PI3K/AKT signaling was activated, inhibiting CHK1 activity via phosphorylation of its serine 280 residue preventing the repair of damaged DNA. In conclusion, FB₁ epigenetically modulates the PTEN/PI3K/AKT signaling cascade, preventing DNA damage checkpoint regulation, and induces significant DNA damage.

E2F7, regulated by miR‑30c, inhibits apoptosis and promotes cell cycle of prostate cancer cells

Prostate cancer (PCa) remains a leading cause of mortality among men in the United States and Western Europe. The molecular mechanism of PCa pathogenesis has not been fully elucidated. In the present study, the expression profile of E2F transcription factor 7 (E2F7) in PCa was examined using immunohistochemistry and reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR, whilst cell cycle progression and apoptosis were determined using fluorescent cell activated sorting techniques. Cell viability was measured using Cell Counting Kit‑8 in loss‑ and gain‑of‑function studies. Dual‑luciferase reporter assay was used to verify if E2F7 was one of the potential targets of miR‑30c. The staining score of E2F7 of PCa tissues was found to be notably higher compared with that of adjacent normal tissues. Suppression of E2F7 expression in PCa cell lines led to significantly reduced proliferation rates, increased proportion of cells in the G1 phase of the cell cycle and higher apoptotic rates compared with those in negative control groups. Dual‑luciferase reporter assay revealed E2F7 to be one of the binding targets of microRNA (miR)‑30c. In addition, transfection of miR‑30c mimics into PCa cells resulted in reduced cell viability, increased proportion of cells in the G1 phase and higher apoptotic rates. By contrast, transfection with the miR‑30c inhibitor led to lower apoptosis rates of PCa cells compared with negative control groups, whilst E2F7 siRNA co‑transfection reversed stimulatory effects of miR‑30c inhibitors on cell viability. In addition, the expression of cyclin‑dependent kinase inhibitor p21 were found to be upregulated by transfection with either E2F7 siRNA or miR‑30c mimics into PCa cells. In conclusion, the present study suggested that E2F7 may be positively associated with PCa cell proliferation by inhibiting p21, whereas E2F7 is in turn under regulation by miR‑30c. These observations suggest the miR‑30c/E2F7/p21 axis to be a viable therapeutic target for PCa.

Nkx2.1 downregulation is involved in brain abnormality induced by excess retinoic acid

Abnormal development of central nervous system (CNS) caused by neural tube defects is not only a major contributor in the prevalence of stillbirths and neonatal deaths but also causes lifelong physical disability in surviving infants. Due to insufficient known investigated causes, CNS developmental abnormality has brought sever burden on health around the world. From previous results of high throughput transcriptome sequencing, we selected transcription factor Nkx2.1 as a candidate to investigate its role on brain abnormalities induced by excessive retinoic acid. The result of in situ hybridization showed that Nkx2.1 was mainly expressed in mouse brain. After the Nkx2.1 gene was silenced, retarded proliferation and accelerated apoptosis were found in mouse Neuro-2a (N2a) cells. Furthermore, our results indicated that the main components of sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling pathway were affected in Nkx2.1-silenced cells, implying that Nkx2.1 plays an important role in the development of mouse brain by regulating Shh signaling pathway.

miR-181a-5p regulates the proliferation and apoptosis of glomerular mesangial cells by targeting KLF6

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a chronic loss of kidney function that frequently occurs in patients with diabetes mellitus and is characterized by abnormal glomerular mesangial cell (GMC) proliferation and apoptosis. By using microarray analysis, microRNA (miR)-181a-5p has previously been identified to be dysregulated in DN. The present study aimed to determine the underlying molecular mechanisms and function of miR-181a-5p in GMCs under DN conditions. First, reverse transcription-quantitative PCR was performed to detect miR-181a-5p and kruppel-like factor 6 (KLF6) expression in GMCs following high-glucose treatment. Subsequently, MTT and flow cytometric assays were performed in order to determine the effect of miR-181a-5p and KLF6 on high-glucose-driven GMC proliferation and apoptosis. After confirming that KLF6 was a target gene of miR-181a-5p via a bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assay, the mRNA and protein expression levels of associated factors in different treatment groups were measured. The results demonstrated that miR-181a-5p was significantly downregulated, while KLF6 was significantly upregulated in GMCs following treatment with high glucose. Furthermore, overexpression of miR-181a led to suppression of cell proliferation and promoted apoptosis of GMCs induced by high glucose, while these effects were inhibited by co-transfection with KLF6. Finally, miR-181-5p was demonstrated to inhibit the expression of KLF6, Bcl-2, Wnt1 and β-catenin, while increasing the expression levels of Bax and caspase-3. In conclusion, the expression levels of miR-181a-5p were downregulated in GMCs following treatment with high glucose and overexpression of miR-181a-5p may inhibit GMC proliferation and promote apoptosis, at least partially through targeting KLF6 via the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Overall, the results of the present study suggest that miR-181a-5p may have a crucial role in the occurrence and development of DN and may be a valuable diagnostic marker and therapeutic target for DN.

Cadmium-Induced Renal Cell Toxicity Is Associated With MicroRNA Deregulation

Cadmium is an environmental pollutant well known for its nephrotoxic effects. Nevertheless, mechanisms underlying nephrotoxicity continue to be elucidated. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged in recent years as modulators of xenobiotic-induced toxicity. In this context, our study aimed at elucidating whether miRNAs are involved in renal proximal tubular toxicity induced by cadmium exposure. We showed that cadmium exposure, in 2 distinct renal proximal tubular cell models (renal proximal tubular epithelial cell [RPTEC]/human telomerase reverse transcriptase [hTERT] and human kidney-2), resulted in cytotoxicity associated with morphological changes, overexpression of renal injury markers, and induction of apoptosis and inflammation processes. Cadmium exposure also resulted in miRNA modulation, including the significant upregulation of 38 miRNAs in RPTEC/hTERT cells. Most of these miRNAs are known to target genes whose coding proteins are involved in oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis, leading to tissue remodeling. In conclusion, this study provides a list of dysregulated miRNAs which may play a role in the pathophysiology of cadmium-induced kidney damages and highlights promising cadmium molecular biomarkers that warrants to be further evaluated.

Overexpression of miR‑30c‑5p reduces cellular cytotoxicity and inhibits the formation of kidney stones through ATG5

MicroRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) are critical regulators in various diseases. In the current study, the role of miR-30c-5p in the formation of sodium oxalate-induced kidney stones was investigated. For this purpose, human renal tubular epithelial cells (HK-2 cells) were incubated with sodium oxalate at the concentrations of 100, 250, 500, 750 and 1,000 µM. Cell viability and the miR-30c-5p expression level were respectively measured by CCK-8 assay and RT-qPCR. After separately transfecting miR-30c-5p mimic and inhibitor into the HK-2 cells, the cell apoptotic rate, the levels of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and ROS were determined by flow cytometry. The levels of oxidative stress indicators [lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT)] were determined using commercial kits. Crystal-cell adhesion assay was performed to evaluate the crystal adhesion capacity in vitro. miR-30c-5p binding at autophagy related 5 (ATG5) was predicted by TargetScan7.2 and further verified by dual-luciferase reporter assay. Rescue experiments were performed to confirm the molecular mechanisms underlying sodium oxalate-induced kidney formation in HK-2 cells. The results revealed that sodium oxalate decreased the viability of HK-2 cells in a concentration-dependent manner, and that miR-30c-5p expression was significantly downregulated by exposure to 750 µM sodium oxalate. In addition, the increase in cell apoptosis and crystal number, and the upregulated levels of LDH, MDA and ROS were reversed by the overexpression of miR-30c-5p. Moreover, the overexpression of miR-30c-5p upregulated the levels of SOD, CAT and MMP induced by sodium oxalate. ATG5 was directly regulated by miR-30c-5p, and the inhibition of cell cytotoxicity and crystal-cell adhesion induced by miR-30c-5p mimic was blocked by ATG5. These data indicated that the overexpression of miR-30c-5p alleviated cell cytotoxicity and crystal-cell adhesion induced by sodium oxalate through ATG5. Thus, the current study provides a better understanding of the role of miR-30c-5p in sodium oxalate-induced kidney stones.

MiR-125a-3p negatively regulates osteoblastic differentiation of human adipose derived mesenchymal stem cells by targeting Smad4 and Jak1

Osteogenesis is a complex process which relies on the coordination of signals and transcription factors. Recent evidence indicates that microRNAs (miRNAs) act as important post-transcriptional regulators in a large number of biological processes including osteoblast differentiation. In this study, we investigated the expression and biological effect of miR-125a-3p during osteogenic differentiation of human adipose derived mesenchymal stem cells (hADSCs). We observed an obvious decrease in miR-125a-3p level during osteogenic differentiation. By using gain- and loss-of function experiments, we noticed that miR-125a-3p could suppress the osteogenic differentiation of hADSCs. Moreover, miR-125a-3p over-expression in hADSCs by transfection with miR-125a-3p mimics significantly inhibited cell proliferation by MTT. Flow cytometry analysis further demonstrated that forced expression of miR-125a-3p induced cell cycle G₁/S phase arrest and apoptosis. In addition, we performed bioinformatic analysis, luciferase reporter assay and western blot to confirm that miR-125a-3p could regulate Smad4 and Jak1 expression negatively. Meanwhile, Smad4 and Jak1 were up-regulated after osteogenic differentiation and the down-regulation of endogenous Smad4 and Jak1 suppressed the osteogenic differentiation of hADSCs. Taken together, these data indicated that miR-125a-3p is Smad4 and Jak1 regulator, and it has a crucially physiological function in osteogenic differentiation of hADSCs.

Bovine Embryo-Secreted microRNA-30c Is a Potential Non-invasive Biomarker for Hampered Preimplantation Developmental Competence

Recently, secreted microRNAs (miRNAs) have received a lot of attention since they may act as autocrine factors. However, how secreted miRNAs influence embryonic development is still poorly understood. We identified 294 miRNAs, 114 known, and 180 novel, in the conditioned medium of individually cultured bovine embryos. Of these miRNAs, miR-30c and miR-10b were much more abundant in conditioned medium of slow cleaving embryos compared to intermediate cleaving ones. MiR-10b, miR-novel-44, and miR-novel-45 were higher expressed in the conditioned medium of degenerate embryos compared to blastocysts, while the reverse was observed for miR-novel-113 and miR-novel-139. Supplementation of miR-30c mimics into the culture medium confirmed the uptake of miR-30c mimics by embryos and resulted in increased cell apoptosis, as also shown after delivery of miR-30c mimics in Madin-Darby bovine kidney cells (MDBKs). We also demonstrated that miR-30c directly targets Cyclin-dependent kinase 12 (CDK12) through its 3′ untranslated region (3′-UTR) and inhibits its expression. Overexpression and downregulation of CDK12 revealed the opposite results of the delivery of miRNA-30c mimics and inhibitor. The significant down-regulation of several tested DNA damage response (DDR) genes, after increasing miR-30c or reducing CDK12 expression, suggests a possible role for miR-30c in regulating embryo development through DDR pathways.

Serum miR-30c Level Predicted Cardiotoxicity in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer Patients Treated with Bevacizumab

Cardiotoxicity is a common adverse effect induced by drug chemotherapy. miR-30c has been reported to be involved in the progress of heart diseases. In the present study, miR-30c was used to predict the cardiotoxicity in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients treated with bevacizumab chemotherapy. Eighty NSCLC patients were included in this study. Serum miR-30c levels were detected at pre-chemotherapy, during-chemotherapy (the 2nd, 4th, and 8th week) and 1 month after chemotherapy. miR-30c expression was elevated with the duration of the chemotherapy cycle and decreased 1 month after chemotherapy. The correlation analysis showed that serum miR-30c levels were positively related to cardiotoxicity before chemotherapy and during chemotherapy. ROC curve analysis showed the values of AUC, sensitivity, and specificity for the level of miR-30c alteration (from pre-chemotherapy to during-chemotherapy) were 0.851, 0.720, and 0.860, respectively. Serum miR-30c level is elevated during bevacizumab chemotherapy, which is probably an early detection biomarker for predicting cardiotoxicity in NSCLC patients treated with drug chemotherapy.

Small Nucleolar RNA Host Gene 18 Acts as a Tumor Suppressor and a Diagnostic Indicator in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Noncoding RNAs are crucial regulators acting as either tumor suppressor genes or oncogenes in human cancer progression. The aberrant expression of noncoding RNAs has been confirmed in different kinds of cancers. Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the most common malignant tumors worldwide, characterized by insidious onset, great malignancy, and high rates of recurrence and metastasis. Due to lack of early predictive markers, numerous patients are diagnosed in the late stages. As therapeutic options for advanced patients are quite limited, great efforts have been made to screen patients at early stages. A previous study reported that small nucleolar RNA host gene 18 played crucial role in glioma. However, its functions and roles in hepatocellular carcinoma are unknown.

PURPOSE

To explore its functional role and diagnostic value in hepatocellular carcinoma, we investigated its expression level.

METHODS

We performed real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction in tumor tissues and adjacent noncancerous tissues derived from patients with hepatocellular carcinoma as well as in plasma, including samples from the healthy control, patients with hepatitis B, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma.

RESULTS

Small nucleolar RNA host gene 18 was downregulated in liver tissues compared to paired adjacent noncancerous tissues ( P < .0001). Meanwhile, plasma small nucleolar RNA host gene 18 showed a relatively high sensitivity and specificity (75.61% and 73.49%) for distinguishing patients with hepatocellular carcinoma whose α-fetoprotein levels were below 200 ng/mL from the healthy controls.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggested that small nucleolar RNA host gene 18 might act as a tumor suppressor gene in hepatocellular carcinoma and potentially a diagnostic indicator to distinguish hepatocellular carcinoma from the healthy control and cirrhosis.

Non-Coding RNAs in Breast Cancer: Intracellular and Intercellular Communication

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are regulators of intracellular and intercellular signaling in breast cancer. ncRNAs modulate intracellular signaling to control diverse cellular processes, including levels and activity of estrogen receptor α (ERα), proliferation, invasion, migration, apoptosis, and stemness. In addition, ncRNAs can be packaged into exosomes to provide intercellular communication by the transmission of microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) to cells locally or systemically. This review provides an overview of the biogenesis and roles of ncRNAs: small nucleolar RNA (snRNA), circular RNAs (circRNAs), PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), miRNAs, and lncRNAs in breast cancer. Since more is known about the miRNAs and lncRNAs that are expressed in breast tumors, their established targets as oncogenic drivers and tumor suppressors will be reviewed. The focus is on miRNAs and lncRNAs identified in breast tumors, since a number of ncRNAs identified in breast cancer cells are not dysregulated in breast tumors. The identity and putative function of selected lncRNAs increased: nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1), metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1), steroid receptor RNA activator 1 (SRA1), colon cancer associated transcript 2 (CCAT2), colorectal neoplasia differentially expressed (CRNDE), myocardial infarction associated transcript (MIAT), and long intergenic non-protein coding RNA, Regulator of Reprogramming (LINC-ROR); and decreased levels of maternally-expressed 3 (MEG3) in breast tumors have been observed as well. miRNAs and lncRNAs are considered targets of therapeutic intervention in breast cancer, but further work is needed to bring the promise of regulating their activities to clinical use.

At the heart of programming: the role of micro-RNAs

Epidemiological and experimental observations tend to prove that environment, lifestyle or nutritional challenges influence heart functions together with genetic factors. Furthermore, when occurring during sensitive windows of heart development, these environmental challenges can induce an 'altered programming' of heart development and shape the future heart disease risk. In the etiology of heart diseases driven by environmental challenges, epigenetics has been highlighted as an underlying mechanism, constituting a bridge between environment and heart health. In particular, micro-RNAs which are involved in each step of heart development and functions seem to play a crucial role in the unfavorable programming of heart diseases. This review describes the latest advances in micro-RNA research in heart diseases driven by early exposure to challenges and discusses the use of micro-RNAs as potential targets in the reversal of the pathophysiology.

microRNAs and cardiac stem cells in heart development and disease

Cumulative evidence has proven that proliferation, differentiation and migration of cardiac stem cells (CSCs) dominate early heart development and contribute to the later occurrence of heart disease. Among other mechanisms, microRNAs work as the 'fine-tuning' to modulate the levels of target genes in a specific cell type. The distinct microRNA signatures in CSCs reveal the stages and functions of CSCs. The focus of this review is to summarize recent knowledge advances in CSC proliferation, differentiation and migration and to discuss how microRNAs regulate these processes during heart development and in heart disease. Better understanding of microRNA regulation on CSCs under different situations will enable the unveiling of the mechanisms of heart disease and open new avenues in the therapeutic potentials of microRNA modulation to treat heart disease.

Confirmation of a metastasis-specific microRNA signature in primary colon cancer

The identification of patients with high-risk stage II colon cancer who may benefit from adjuvant therapy may allow the clinical approach to be tailored for these patients based on an understanding of tumour biology. MicroRNAs have been proposed as markers of the prognosis or treatment response in colorectal cancer. Recently, a 2-microRNA signature (let-7i and miR-10b) was proposed to identify colorectal cancer patients at risk of developing distant metastasis. We assessed the prognostic value of this signature and additional candidate microRNAs in an independent, clinically well-defined, prospectively collected cohort of primary colon cancer patients including stage I-II colon cancer without and stage III colon cancer with adjuvant treatment. The 2-microRNA signature specifically predicted hepatic recurrence in the stage I-II group, but not the overall ability to develop distant metastasis. The addition of miR-30b to the 2-microRNA signature allowed the prediction of both distant metastasis and hepatic recurrence in patients with stage I-II colon cancer who did not receive adjuvant chemotherapy. Available gene expression data allowed us to associate miR-30b expression with axon guidance and let-7i expression with cell adhesion, migration, and motility.

MicroRNA-30c suppresses the pro-fibrogenic effects of cardiac fibroblasts induced by TGF-β1 and prevents atrial fibrosis by targeting TGFβRII

Atrial fibrosis serves as an important contributor to atrial fibrillation (AF). Recent data have suggested that microRNA-30c (miR-30c) is involved in fibrotic remodelling and cancer development, but the specific role of miR-30c in atrial fibrosis remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of miR-30c in atrial fibrosis and its underlying mechanisms through in vivo and in vitro experiments. Our results indicate that miR-30c is significantly down-regulated in the rat abdominal aortic constriction (AAC) model and in the cellular model of fibrosis induced by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). Overexpression of miR-30c in cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) markedly inhibits CF proliferation, differentiation, migration and collagen production, whereas decrease in miR-30c leads to the opposite results. Moreover, we identified TGFβRII as a target of miR-30c. Finally, transferring adeno-associated virus 9 (AAV9)-miR-30c into the inferior vena cava of rats attenuated fibrosis in the left atrium following AAC. These data indicate that miR-30c attenuates atrial fibrosis via inhibition of CF proliferation, differentiation, migration and collagen production by targeting TGFβRII, suggesting that miR-30c might be a novel potential therapeutic target for preventing atrial fibrosis.

Hedgehog signaling pathway: Epigenetic regulation and role in disease and cancer development

The evolutionarily conserved Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway have critical roles in development and homeostasis of tissues. Under physiological conditions, Hh is controlled at different levels via stem cell maintenance and tissue regeneration. Aberrant activation of this signaling pathway may occur in a wide range of human diseases including different types of cancer. In this review we present a concise overview on the key genes composing Hh signaling pathway and provide recent advances on the molecular mechanisms that regulate Hh signaling pathway from extracellular and receptors to the cytoplasmic and nuclear machinery with a highlight on the role of microRNAs. Furthermore, we focus on critical studies demonstrating dysregulation of the Hh pathway in human disease development, and potential therapeutic implications. Finally, we introduce recent therapeutic drugs acting as Shh signaling pathway inhibitors, including those in clinical trials and preclinical studies.

Hydrogen sulfide and autophagy: A double edged sword

Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) has been considered the third gaseous signaling molecule that plays important roles in a wide range of physiological and pathological conditions. However, there has been some controversy on the role of H₂S in autophagy. Recent studies indicate that a number of signaling pathways are involved in the pro-autophagy effect of H₂S, such as PI3K/Akt/mTOR, AMPK/mTOR, LKB1/STRAD/MO25, and miR-30c signaling pathways. On the other hand, there are many signaling pathways that play important roles in the anti-autophagy effect of H₂S, including SR-A, PI3K/SGK1/GSK3β, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, Nrf2-ROS-AMPK, AMPK/mTOR, and JNK1 signaling pathways. Novel H₂S-releasing donors/drugs could be designed and identified in order to increase the therapeutic effects by mediating autophagy in human diseases. In this review, the H₂S metabolism in mammals is summarized and the effects of signaling pathways in H₂S-mediated autophagy are further discussed.

Differential Expression of CircRNAs in Embryonic Heart Tissue Associated with Ventricular Septal Defect

Objectives: To explore and validate the differential expression of circRNAs in the myocardium of congenital ventricular septal defect (VSD) and to explore a new avenue of research regarding the pathological mechanisms of VSD. Methods: We detected circRNAs expression profiles in heart tissues taken from six aborted fetuses with VSD and normal group using circRNA microarray. Some differentially expressed circRNAs were studied by bioinformatics analysis. Finally, quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was performed to confirm these results. Results: This study found abundant circRNAs in the myocardium taken from individuals in the normal group and the VSD group. After that, totally 6234 differentially expressed circRNAs between the normal group and the VSD group were confirmed (Fold change ≥ 2.0; p < 0.05). Then, this research carried out bioinformatics analysis and predicted the potential biological functions of circRNAs. Finally, the over-expression of hsa_circRNA_002086 and under-expression of hsa_circRNA_007878, hsa_circRNA_100709, hsa_circRNA_101965, hsa_circRNA_402565 were further validated by qRT-PCR. Conclusions: There is a significant difference in expression of the circRNA in cardiac tissue from VSD group compared to the normal group. Combined with the microarray results and previous researches, circRNAs may contribute to the occurrence of VSD by acting as miRNA sponges or by binding proteins, these possible roles for circRNAs in VSD require elucidation in additional studies.

Molecular mechanisms of Ellis‑van Creveld gene variations in ventricular septal defect

The Ellis-van Creveld (EVC) gene is associated with various congenital heart diseases. However, studies on EVC gene variations in ventricular septal defect (VSD) and the underlying molecular mechanisms are sparse. The present study detected 11 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 65 patients with VSD and 210 control patients from the Chinese Han population. Of the identified SNPs only the c.1727G>A SNP site was positively associated with the development of VSD (P<0.007). A known mutation, c.343C>G, was also identified, which causes a leucine to valine substitution at amino acid 115 of the EVC protein (p.L115V). The results of functional prediction indicated that c.343C>G may be a pathogenic mutation. In addition, in NIH3T3 mouse embryonic fibroblast cells, the EVC c.343C>G mutation significantly decreased cell proliferation and increased apoptosis. Further investigation demonstrated that in NIH3T3 cells, overexpression of EVC c.343C>G mutation reduced the binding between EVC and smoothened, which further downregulated the activity of the hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway and the expression of downstream cyclin D1 and B-cell lymphoma 2 proteins with SAG. The c.1727G>A SNP of the EVC gene increased VSD susceptibility in patients from the Chinese Han population. The molecular mechanism underlying the development of VSD induced by the EVC c.343C>G mutation may be due to a reduction in the anti-apoptotic and proliferative abilities of cardiomyocytes via downregulation of Hh pathway activity. The results of the present study may provide novel targets for the diagnosis and treatment of patients with VSD.

Protective effect of casuarinin against glutamate-induced apoptosis in HT22 cells through inhibition of oxidative stress-mediated MAPK phosphorylation

Glutamate is the major excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system and is involved in oxidative stress during neurodegeneration. In the present study, casuarinin prevented glutamate-induced HT22 murine hippocampal neuronal cell death by inhibiting intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Moreover, casuarinin reduced chromatin condensation and annexin-V-positive cell production induced by glutamate. We also confirmed the underlying protective mechanism of casuarinin against glutamate-induced neurotoxicity. Glutamate markedly increased the phosphorylation of extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK)-1/2 and p38, which are crucial in oxidative stress-mediated neuronal cell death. Conversely, treatment with casuarinin diminished the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and P38. In conclusion, the results of this study suggest that casuarinin, obtained from natural products, acts as potent neuroprotective agent by suppressing glutamate-mediated apoptosis through the inhibition of ROS production and activation of the mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. Thus, casuarinin can be a potential therapeutic agent in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

MicroRNA-203 suppresses proliferation in liver cancer associated with PIK3CA, p38 MAPK, c-Jun, and GSK3 signaling

Primary liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma, HCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths, and alternative ways to treat this disease are urgently needed. In recent years, novel approaches to cancer treatment have been based on microRNAs, small non-coding RNA molecules that play a crucial role in cancer progression by regulating gene expression. Overexpression of some microRNAs has shown therapeutic potential, but whether or not this was the case for microRNA-203 (miR-203) in liver cancer was unknown. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of miR-203 overexpression in liver cancer and explore the related mechanisms. Liver cancer cells from the HepG2 and Hep3B cell lines were transfected with either miR-203 mimics or negative control RNA, and then the cells were subjected to cell viability, cell proliferation, and Western blotting assays. As a result of microRNA-203 overexpression, HepG2 and Hep3B cell viability and cell proliferation significantly declined. Furthermore, microRNA-203 overexpression led to inhibited expression of phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase (PIK3)/protein kinase B (Akt), c-Jun, and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (p38 MAPK), and restored glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK 3) activity in HepG2 cells. Our results suggest that c-Jun, p38 MAPK, PIK3CA/Akt, and GSK3 signaling involved in the effect of miR-203 on the proliferation of HCC cells.

miR-873 suppresses H9C2 cardiomyocyte proliferation by targeting GLI1

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of endogenous, non-coding small RNAs that regulate the expression of target genes. Previous studies have suggested that miRNAs are key regulators in cardiovascular systems. This study investigated the role of miR-873 in H9C2 cardiomyocytes by targeting glioma-associated oncogene 1 (GLI1). miR-873 was significantly up-regulated in serum samples from congenital heart disease (CHD) patients compared with those from normal individuals. Furthermore, miR-873 over-expression suppressed H9C2 proliferation and induced cell cycle arrest. Bioinformatic algorithms revealed a predicted target site for miR-873 in the 3'-untranslated region (3'UTR) of GLI1, which was verified using a dual-luciferase reporter assay. qPCR and western blot analysis also showed that miR-873 negatively regulated GLI1 mRNA and protein expression in H9C2 cells. Conversely, GLI1 over-expression partially reversed the growth-inhibitory effect of miR-873. To summarize, our data suggest that miR-873 is a novel miRNA that regulates H9C2 cell proliferation via targeting GLI1, and miR-873 may serve as a new potential biomarker diagnosis in CHD in the future.