MicroRNA-221-3p, a TWIST2 target, promotes cervical cancer metastasis by directly targeting THBS2

MicroRNA-221-3p inhibits the inflammatory response of keratinocytes by regulating the DYRK1A/STAT3 signaling pathway to promote wound healing in diabetes

Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU), a serious complication of diabetes, remains a clinical challenge. MicroRNAs affect inflammation and may have therapeutic value in DFU. Here, we find that an miR-221-3p mimic reduces the inflammatory response and increases skin wound healing rates in a mouse model of diabetes, whereas miR-221-3p knockout produced the opposite result. In human keratinocytes cells, miR-221-3p suppresses the inflammatory response induced by high glucose. The gene encoding DYRK1A is a target of miR-221-3p. High glucose increases the expression of DYRK1A, but silencing DYRK1A expression decreases high glucose-induced inflammatory cytokine release via dephosphorylation of STAT3, a substrate of DYRK1A. Application of miR-221-3p mimic to human keratinocytes cells not only decreases DYRK1A expression but also inhibits high glucose-induced production of inflammatory cytokines to promote wound healing. This molecular mechanism whereby miR-221-3p regulates inflammation through the DYRK1A/STAT3 signaling pathway suggests targets and therapeutic approaches for treating DFU.

Non-coding RNAs in gynecologic cancer

The term "gynecologic cancer" pertains to neoplasms impacting the reproductive tissues and organs of women encompassing the endometrium, vagina, cervix, uterus, vulva, and ovaries. The progression of gynecologic cancer is linked to various molecular mechanisms. Historically, cancer research primarily focused on protein-coding genes. However, recent years have unveiled the involvement of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs), and circular RNAs, in modulating cellular functions within gynecological cancer. Substantial evidence suggests that ncRNAs may wield a dual role in gynecological cancer, acting as either oncogenic or tumor-suppressive agents. Numerous clinical trials are presently investigating the roles of ncRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic agents. These endeavors may introduce a fresh perspective on the diagnosis and treatment of gynecological cancer. In this overview, we highlight some of the ncRNAs associated with gynecological cancers.

Multidimensional outlook on the pathophysiology of cervical cancer invasion and metastasis

Cervical cancer being one of the primary causes of high mortality rates among women is an area of concern, especially with ineffective treatment strategies. Extensive studies are carried out to understand various aspects of cervical cancer initiation, development and progression; however, invasive cervical squamous cell carcinoma has poor outcomes. Moreover, the advanced stages of cervical cancer may involve lymphatic circulation with a high risk of tumor recurrence at distant metastatic sites. Dysregulation of the cervical microbiome by human papillomavirus (HPV) together with immune response modulation and the occurrence of novel mutations that trigger genomic instability causes malignant transformation at the cervix. In this review, we focus on the major risk factors as well as the functionally altered signaling pathways promoting the transformation of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia into invasive squamous cell carcinoma. We further elucidate genetic and epigenetic variations to highlight the complexity of causal factors of cervical cancer as well as the metastatic potential due to the changes in immune response, epigenetic regulation, DNA repair capacity, and cell cycle progression. Our bioinformatics analysis on metastatic and non-metastatic cervical cancer datasets identified various significantly and differentially expressed genes as well as the downregulation of potential tumor suppressor microRNA miR-28-5p. Thus, a comprehensive understanding of the genomic landscape in invasive and metastatic cervical cancer will help in stratifying the patient groups and designing potential therapeutic strategies.

Adipose Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes Promote the Regeneration of Corneal Endothelium Through Ameliorating Senescence

Purpose

Human corneal endothelial cells (hCECs) have been considered unable to regenerate in vivo, resulting in corneal decompensation after significant loss of hCECs. adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell (ASC)-derived exosomes can regenerate tissues and organs. In this study, we investigated whether ASC-derived exosomes could protect and regenerate CECs.

Methods

We performed cell viability and cell-cycle analyses to evaluate the effect of ASC-derived exosomes on the regeneration capacity of cultured hCECs. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) were used to induce biological stress in CECs. The effect of ASC-derived exosomes on CECs was investigated in vivo. ASC-derived exosomes were introduced into rat CECs using electroporation, and rat corneas were injured using cryoinjury. Next-generation sequencing analysis was performed to compare the differentially expressed microRNAs (miRNAs) between ASC-derived and hCEC-derived exosomes.

Results

ASC-derived exosomes induced CEC proliferation and suppressed TGF-β- or H2O2-induced oxidative stress and senescence. ASC-derived exosomes protect hCECs against TGF-β- or H2O2-induced endothelial-mesenchymal transition and mitophagy. In an in vivo study, ASC-derived exosomes promoted wound healing of rat CECs and protected the corneal endothelium against cryoinjury-induced corneal endothelium damage. Next-generation sequencing analysis revealed differentially expressed miRNAs for ASC-derived and hCEC-derived exosomes. They are involved in lysine degradation, adherens junction, the TGF-β signaling pathway, the p53 signaling pathway, the Hippo signaling pathway, the forkhead box O (FoxO) signaling pathway, regulation of actin cytoskeleton, and RNA degradation based on Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis.

Conclusions

ASC-derived exosomes promoted wound healing and regeneration of endothelial cells by inducing a shift in the cell cycle and suppressing senescence and autophagy.

Identification of miRNAs and target genes associated with lymph node metastasis in cervical cancer using bioinformatics analysis

This study was designed to identify the differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) and genes (DEGs) in metastatic cervical cancer using bioinformatic tools. In this study, fifty-seven DEMs (48 downregulated and 9 upregulated) were identified, among which miR-4459 and miR-3195 expression was negatively associated with overall survival of cervical cancer patients. Then, 476 target DEGs were determined, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed. Seventeen hub genes (LONRF2, CCNE2, AURKA, SYT1, NEGR1, PPP1R12B, GABRP, RAD51, CDK1, FBLN5, PRKG1, CDC6, CACNA1C, MEOX2, ANLN, MYLK, and EDNRB) were finally selected to construct the miRNA-hub gene network. Overall, our study discovered the key miRNAs and mRNAs related to lymph node metastasis (LNM) in cervical cancer, which helps discover candidate therapeutic targets for cervical cancer.

MicroRNA-221-3p Targets THBS1 to Promote Wound Healing in Diabetes

Introduction

Diabetes foot ulcer (DFU) is a serious complication of diabetes characterized with chronic foot ulceration, poor wound healing (WH), and persistent inflammation. MiR-221-3p, as microRNA, has been shown to accelerate WH in previous study, but the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood.

Methods

In this study, we aimed to determine how miR-221-3p influences WH by targeting THBS1. The effect of miRNA-221-3p on wound healing of diabetes by epidermal injection of miRNA-221-3p agomir. In vitro generated human immortalized keratinocytes (HaCaT cells) were transfected with miR-mimics and negative control with high glucose treatment. The effects of miRNA-221-3p on cell apoptosis and angiogenesis using cell apoptosis assay and the tube formation assay, respectively. Direct target interaction of miR-221-3p and predicted target sites in 3'UTR of THBS1 were examined by luciferase reporter gene assay. Breeding miRNA-221 knockout mice for experimental verification.

Results

We found that miRNA-221-3p overexpression at the wound edge of normal mice and diabetes mice can promote WH. As contrast, WH of miR-221 knockout mice delayed with increased epithelial apoptosis and reduced angiogenesis in the dermis. miR-221-3p was found to inhibit apoptosis in HaCaT cells, and enhanced angiogenesis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) that were co-cultured. Bioinformatics analysis as well as the dual-luciferase reporter assay revealed miR-221-3p to target 3' untranslated region of THBS1.

Conclusion

Our findings suggested miR-221-3p might exert an essential impact on diabetes WH via inhibition of THBS1 and lack of miR-221-3p possibly results in impaired healing in chronic wounds of type 2 diabetes. Therefore, developing medicine such as chemically modified analogs of miR-221-3p in future could benefit patients with DFU.

Hsa_circ_0015382 is involved in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia by mediating THBS2 expression

BACKGROUND

Preeclampsia (PE) is a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy that causes significant maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Circular RNA (circRNA) hsa_circ_0015382 is associated with the pathogenesis of PE, but its underlying regulatory mechanism remains to be explored.

METHODS

Relative RNA levels of hsa_circ_0015382, microRNA-616-3p and thrombospondin-2 (THBS2) were detected by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. In vitro regulatory effects of hsa_circ_0015382 on the proliferation, migration, invasion and angiogenesis of trophoblasts were evaluated by CCK-8, flow cytometry for cell cycle, EdU, transwell, wound healing and HUVEC tube formation assays, respectively. Targeting interaction was verified by dual-luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation assays.

RESULTS

Hsa_circ_0015382 was highly expressed in placental tissues from PE patients. Upregulation of hsa_circ_0015382 repressed trophoblast proliferation, migration, invasion and lowered trophoblast-induced HUVEC tube formation. Hsa_circ_0015382 was validated as a miR-616-3p sponge and miR-616-3p targeted THBS2. Hsa_circ_0015382 could mediate trophoblast proliferation, migration, invasion and regulate trophoblast-induced HUVEC tube formation by sponging miR-616-3p and regulating THBS2 expression.

CONCLUSION

Hsa_circ_0015382 is associated with the pathogenesis of PPE by regulating the miR-616-3p/THBS2 axis.

HIGHLIGHTS

Hsa_circ_0015382 is overexpressed in preeclampsia patients. Hsa_circ_0015382 inhibits trophoblast proliferation, migration, invasion and decreases trophoblast-induced HUVEC tube formation. Hsa_circ_0015382 interacts with miR-616-3p to regulate THBS2 expression.

Cancer-associated fibroblast-derived PAI-1 promotes lymphatic metastasis via the induction of EndoMT in lymphatic endothelial cells

BACKGROUND

Endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) is an emerging adaptive process that modulates lymphatic endothelial function to drive aberrant lymphatic vascularization in the tumour microenvironment (TME); however, the molecular determinants that govern the functional role of EndoMT remain unclear. Here, we show that cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF)-derived PAI-1 promoted the EndoMT of lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) in cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC).

METHODS

Immunofluorescent staining of α-SMA, LYVE-1 and DAPI were examined in primary tumour samples obtained from 57 CSCC patients. Assessment of cytokines secreted by CAFs and normal fibroblasts (NFs) was performed using human cytokine antibody arrays. The phenotype of EndoMT in lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs), gene expression levels, protein secretion and activity of signaling pathways were measured by real-time RT-PCR, ELISA or western blotting. The function of lymphatic endothelial monolayers was examined by transwell, tube formation assay, transendothelial migration assay in vitro. Lymphatic metastasis was measured using popliteal lymph node metastasis model. Furthermore, association between PAI-1 expression and EndoMT in CSCC was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases was used to assess the association of PAI-1 with survival rate in CSCC.

RESULTS

CAF-derived PAI-1 promoted the EndoMT of LECs in CSCC. LECs undergoing EndoMT could initiate tumour neolymphangiogenesis that facilitated cancer cell intravasation/extravasation, which in turn promoted lymphatic metastasis in CSCC. Mechanistically, PAI-1 activated the AKT/ERK1/2 pathways by directly interacting with low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein (LRP1), thereby leading to elevated EndoMT activity in LECs. Blockade of PAI-1 or inhibition of LRP1/AKT/ERK1/2 abrogated EndoMT and consequently attenuated CAF-induced tumour neolymphangiogenesis. Furthermore, clinical data revealed that increased PAI-1 levels positively correlated with EndoMT activity and poor prognosis in CSCC patients.

CONCLUSION

Our data indicate that CAF-derived PAI-1 acts as an important neolymphangiogenesis-initiating molecular during CSCC progression through modulating the EndoMT of LECs, resulting in promotion of metastasis ability in primary site. PAI-1 could serve as an effective prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for CSCC metastasis.

Clinical Application of Small Extracellular Vesicles in Gynecologic Malignancy Treatments

Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are the key mediators of intercellular communication. They have the potential for clinical use as diagnostic or therapeutic biomarkers and have been explored as vectors for drug delivery. Identification of reliable and noninvasive biomarkers, such as sEVs, is important for early diagnosis and precise treatment of gynecologic diseases to improve patient prognosis. Previous reviews have summarized routine sEVs isolation and identification methods; however, novel and unconventional methods have not been comprehensively described. This review summarizes a convenient method of isolating sEVs from body fluids and liquid biopsy-related sEV markers for early, minimally invasive diagnosis of gynecologic diseases. In addition, the characteristics of sEVs as drug carriers and in precision treatment and drug resistance are introduced, providing a strong foundation for identifying novel and potential therapeutic targets for sEV therapy. We propose potential directions for further research on the applications of sEVs in the diagnosis and treatment of gynecologic diseases.

miRNAs role in cervical cancer pathogenesis and targeted therapy: Signaling pathways interplay

Cervical cancer (CC) is the primary cause of cancer deaths in underdeveloped countries. The persistence of infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) is a significant contributor to the development of CC. However, few women with morphologic HPV infection develop invasive illnesses, suggesting other mechanisms contribute to cervical carcinogenesis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs, miRs) are small chain nucleic acids that can regulate wide networks of cellular events. They can inhibit or degrade their target protein-encoding genes. They had the power to regulate CC's invasion, pathophysiology, angiogenesis, apoptosis, proliferation, and cell cycle phases. Further research is required, even though novel methods have been developed for employing miRNAs in the diagnosis, and treatment of CC. We'll go through some of the new findings about miRNAs and their function in CC below. The function of miRNAs in the development of CC and its treatment is one of these. Clinical uses of miRNAs in the analysis, prediction, and management of CC are also covered.

Mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles transfer miR-598 to inhibit the growth and metastasis of non-small-cell lung cancer by targeting THBS2

Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the subtype of lung cancer, which accounts for about 85% of diagnosed lung cancer cases, and is without any effective therapy. Emerging evidence has revealed microRNA-598 (miR-598) as potential therapeutic target and diagnostic marker of NSCLC. In the present study, we sought to define the role of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) containing miR-598 in NSCLC. Co-culture experiments were conducted to examine the secretion of miR-598 by MSCs and the uptake of EVs by NSCLC cells. The expression of miR-598 in NSCLC cell lines, tissues, and MSC-derived EVs was detected by the RT-qPCR. After treatment with MSCs-EVs, CCK-8 and Transwell assays were adopted to evaluate the effects of miR-598 on proliferation, migration, and invasion capacities of NSCLC cells. Finally, the effects of miR-598 on tumor growth and metastasis were further validated in vivo through subcutaneous tumorigenesis and experimental pulmonary metastasis in nude mice. We found that MSCs-derived EVs could deliver miR-598 into NSCLC cells, where miR-598 specifically targeted and bound with mRNA of THBS2 to inhibit its translational process. By suppressing the promoting effects of THBS2 on the proliferation, migration, and invasion of NSCLC cells, the EV treatment reduced the progression of NSCLC. Notably, these inhibitory effects were reversed by concomitantly overexpressing THBS2. Overall, we find that MSCs-derived EVs containing miR-598 targets THBS2 to inhibit the proliferation and migration of NSCLC cells in vivo and in vitro.

Construction of an immune-related ceRNA network in cervical cancer based on HPV E6 splicing

Background

Cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The unspliced human papillomavirus (HPV) E6 plays an important role in tumor progression and immune regulation. Improved immunotherapy implementation might benefit from a better knowledge of HPV E6 splicing-related immune gene expressions and immunocyte infiltration in cervical cancer. This study aimed to identify the potential therapeutic and prognostic roles of unspliced/spliced E6 ratio (E6 ratio) in cervical cancer.

Methods

Data from the TCGA were used to analyze the E6 condition and clinical information. Nomogram and K-M analysis were used to analyze assess the prognostic significance, IOBR was used to investigate immunological infiltrates. Functions and pathway enrichment analysis of DEGs were investigated through GO analysis and KEGG pathway analysis, respectively. A core module was taken from the competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network and used to build a lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network. QT-qPCR was used to detect the expression of genes. CCK-8, colony formation, wound healing and migration assays were used to detect cell functions.

Results

Our study found that HPV E6 ratio had significantly correlation with overall survival. In cervical cancer, a high E6 ratio was adversely linked with infiltrating levels of aDC, M1 macrophages, monocytes, NKT, and Tgd. High E6 ratio phenotypes were shown to be implicated in immune response regulation, cell adhesion, and Wnt signaling pathways, according to functional enrichment analysis. Subsequently, we constructed an immune-related ceRNA network based on E6 splicing in cervical cancer, including three lncRNA (LINC00943, LIFR-AS1, DANT2, and RASSF8-AS1), four miRNA (miR-205-5p, miR-181d-5p, miR-222-3p, and miR-221-3p), and seven mRNA (FGFR1, PRLR, CXCL2, ISG20, ISG15, SDC1, and NR2F2). Among them, CXCL2, SDC1, and miR-221-3p were associated with survival and immune cell infiltration.

Conclusions

These data imply that a high E6 ratio in cervical cancer contributes to the immune-related ceRNA network, resulting in a low amount of infiltrating effector immune cells and tumor growth. As a result, the E6 ratio might be employed as a biomarker in cervical cancer to determine prognosis and treatment success.

miR-23b-3p, miR-124-3p and miR-218-5p Synergistic or Additive Effects on Cellular Processes That Modulate Cervical Cancer Progression? A Molecular Balance That Needs Attention

In cervical cancer (CC), miR-23b-3p, miR-124-3p, and miR-218-5p have been found to act as tumor suppressors by regulating cellular processes related to progression and metastasis. The objective of the present review is to provide an update on the experimental evidence about the role of miR-23b-3p, miR-124-3p, and miR-218-5p in the regulation of CC progression. Additionally, we present the results of a bioinformatic analysis that suggest that these miRNAs have a somewhat redundant role in the same cellular processes that may result in a synergistic effect to promote CC progression. The results indicate that specific and common target genes for miR-23b-3p, miR-124-3p, and miR-218-5p regulate proliferation, migration, apoptosis, and angiogenesis, all processes that are related to CC maintenance and progression. Furthermore, several target genes may regulate cancer-related signaling pathways. We found that a total of 271 proteins encoded by the target mRNAs of miR-23b-3p, miR-124-3p, or miR-218-5p interact to regulate the cellular processes previously mentioned, and some of these proteins are regulated by HPV-16 E7. Taken together, information analysis indicates that miR-23b-3p, miR-124-3p, and miR-218-5p may potentiate their effects to modulate the cellular processes related to the progression and maintenance of CC with and without HPV-16 involvement.

HPV-Related Cervical Cancer and Extracellular Vesicles

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common type of cancer in females worldwide. Infection with a human papillomavirus is crucial to the etiopathogenesis of cervical cancer. The natural trajectory of HPV infection comprises HPV acquisition, HPV persistence versus clearance, and progression to precancer and invasive cancer. The majority of HPV infections are cleared and controlled by the immune system within 2 years, but some infections may become quiescent or undetectable. The persistence of high-risk HPV infection for a longer period of time enhances the risk of malignant transformation of infected cells; however, the mechanisms responsible for the persistence of infection are not yet well-understood. It is estimated that 10-15% of infections do persist, and the local microenvironment is now recognized as an important cofactor promoting infection maintenance. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small membrane vesicles derived from both normal cells and cancer cells. EVs contain various proteins, such as cytoskeletal proteins, adhesion molecules, heat shock proteins, major histocompatibility complex, and membrane fusion proteins. EVs derived from HPV-infected cells also contain viral proteins and nucleic acids. These biologically active molecules are transferred via EVs to target cells, constituting a kind of cell-to-cell communication. The viral components incorporated into EVs are transmitted independently of the production of infectious virions. This mode of transfer makes EVs a perfect vector for viruses and their components. EVs participate in both physiological and pathological conditions; they have also been identified as one of the mediators involved in cancer metastasis. This review discusses the potential role of EVs in remodeling the cervical cancer microenvironment which may be crucial to tumor development and the acquisition of metastatic potential. EVs are promising as potential biomarkers in cervical cancer.

Emerging Roles and Potential Applications of Non-Coding RNAs in Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer (CC) is a preventable disease using proven interventions, specifically prophylactic vaccination, pervasive disease screening, and treatment, but it is still the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women worldwide. Patients with advanced or metastatic CC have a very dismal prognosis and current therapeutic options are very limited. Therefore, understanding the mechanism of metastasis and discovering new therapeutic targets are crucial. New sequencing tools have given a full visualization of the human transcriptome's composition. Non-coding RNAs (NcRNAs) perform various functions in transcriptional, translational, and post-translational processes through their interactions with proteins, RNA, and even DNA. It has been suggested that ncRNAs act as key regulators of a variety of biological processes, with their expression being tightly controlled under physiological settings. In recent years, and notably in the past decade, significant effort has been made to examine the role of ncRNAs in a variety of human diseases, including cancer. Therefore, shedding light on the functions of ncRNA will aid in our better understanding of CC. In this review, we summarize the emerging roles of ncRNAs in progression, metastasis, therapeutics, chemo-resistance, human papillomavirus (HPV) regulation, metabolic reprogramming, diagnosis, and as a prognostic biomarker of CC. We also discussed the role of ncRNA in the tumor microenvironment and tumor immunology, including cancer stem cells (CSCs) in CC. We also address contemporary technologies such as antisense oligonucleotides, CRISPR-Cas9, and exosomes, as well as their potential applications in targeting ncRNAs to manage CC.

ALX1-transcribed LncRNA AC132217.4 promotes osteogenesis and bone healing via IGF-AKT signaling in mesenchymal stem cells

The osteogenic potential of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) is critical for bone formation and regeneration. A high non-/delayed-union rate of fracture healing still occurs in specific populations, implying an urgent need to discover novel targets for promoting osteogenesis and bone regeneration. Long non-coding (lnc)RNAs are emerging regulators of multiple physiological processes, including osteogenesis. Based on differential expression analysis of RNA sequencing data, we found that lncRNA AC132217.4, a 3'UTR-overlapping lncRNA of insulin growth factor 2 (IGF2), was highly induced during osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. Afterward, both gain-of-function and loss-of-function experiments proved that AC132217.4 promotes osteoblast development from BMSCs. As for its molecular mechanism, we found that AC132217.4 binds with IGF2 mRNA to regulate its expression and downstream AKT activation to control osteoblast maturation and function. Furthermore, we identified two splicing factors, splicing component 35 KDa (SC35) and heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A1 (HNRNPA1), which regulate the biogenesis of AC132217.4 at the post-transcriptional level. We also identified a transcription factor, ALX1, which regulates AC132217.7 expression at the transcriptional level to promote osteogenesis. Importantly, in-vivo over-expression of AC132217.4 essentially promotes the bone healing process in a murine tibial drill-hole model. Our study demonstrates that lncRNA AC132217.4 is a novel anabolic regulator of BMSC osteogenesis and could be a plausible therapeutic target for improving bone regeneration.

circ_0085296 inhibits the biological functions of trophoblast cells to promote the progression of preeclampsia via the miR-942-5p/THBS2 network

Insufficient invasion of trophoblast cells is one of the important causes of preeclampsia (PE). Circular RNA (circRNA) has been proven to regulate the biological functions of trophoblast cells and mediate the progression of PE. The expression of circ_0085296, microRNA (miR)-942-5p, and thrombospondin 2 (THBS2) was detected by quantitative real-time PCR. In addition, the interaction between miR-942-5p and circ_0085296 or THBS2 was confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter assay and RIP assay. Our data showed that circ_0085296 was upregulated in the placental tissues of PE patients. Silenced circ_0085296 could enhance the proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis of HTR-8/SVneo cells. Besides, circ_0085296 was found to act as miR-942-5p sponge. Function analysis results suggested that miR-942-5p inhibitor reversed the positive regulation of circ_0085296 knockdown on the biological functions of HTR-8/SVneo cells. Moreover, THBS2 was a target of miR-942-5p, and its overexpression also reversed the promotion effect of miR-942-5p on the proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis of HTR-8/SVneo cells. Also, circ_0085296 was discovered to positively regulate THBS2 by sponging miR-942-5p. To sum up, our results revealed that circ_0085296 could inhibit trophoblast cells proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis by regulating miR-942-5p/THBS2, confirming that circ_0085296 might be a potential therapeutic target for PE.

miR-221/222 as biomarkers and targets for therapeutic intervention on cancer and other diseases: A systematic review

Among deregulated microRNAs (miRs) in human malignancies, miR-221 has been widely investigated for its oncogenic role and as a promising biomarker. Moreover, recent evidence suggests miR-221 as a fine-tuner of chronic liver injury and inflammation-related events. Available information also supports the potential of miR-221 silencing as promising therapeutic intervention. In this systematic review, we selected papers from the principal databases (PubMed, MedLine, Medscape, ASCO, ESMO) between January 2012 and December 2020, using the keywords “miR-221” and the specific keywords related to the most important hematologic and solid malignancies, and some non-malignant diseases, to define and characterize deregulated miR-221 as a valuable therapeutic target in the modern vision of molecular medicine. We found a major role of miR-221 in this view.

MicroRNA-92a-3p Enhances Cisplatin Resistance by Regulating Krüppel-Like Factor 4-Mediated Cell Apoptosis and Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in Cervical Cancer

Recent studies have confirmed the existence and key roles of microRNA (miRNAs) in cancer drug resistance, including cervical cancer (CC). The present study aims to establish a novel role for miR-92a-3p and its associated gene networks in cisplatin (DDP) resistance of CC. First, the disparities in miRNA expression between CC tissues and adjacent normal tissues were screened based on GSE19611 microarray data that retrieved from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), and we identified several miRs that were significantly downregulated or upregulated in CC tissues including miR-92a-3p. Moreover, miR-92a-3p was significantly up-regulated in DDP-resistant cells and was the most differently expressed miRNA. Functionally, knockdown of miR-92a-3p increased the sensitivity of DDP-resistant cells to DDP via inhibiting cell proliferation, migration and invasion, and promoting apoptosis. Conversely, overexpression of miR-92a-3p significantly induced DDP resistance in CC parental cells including HeLa and SiHa cells. Moreover, Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) was identified as a direct target of miR-92a-3p, and an obvious inverse correlation was observed between the expression of miR-92a-3p and KLF4 in 40 pairs of cancer tissues. Furthermore, KLF4 knockdown reversed the promoting effect of miR-92a-3p inhibition on DDP sensitivity in DDP-resistant CC cells. Besides, high expression of miR-92a-3p was associated with DDP resistance, as well as a short overall survival in clinic. Taken together, these findings provide important evidence that miR-92a-3p targets KLF4 and is significant in DDP resistance in CC, indicating that miR-92a-3p may be an attractive target to increase DDP sensitivity in clinical CC treatment.

The promotional effect of microRNA-103a-3p in cervical cancer cells by regulating the ubiquitin ligase FBXW7 function

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been reported to be involved in the initiation and progression of human tumors including cervical cancer (CC). However, the mechanisms underlying of their actions in CC remain to be fully elucidated. Herein, the differentially expressed miRNAs that were screened based on GSE55940 microarray data retrieved from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), and miR-103a-3p was significantly upregulated in CC tissues which was selected as the target miRNA for further research. We also found that high expression of miR-103a-3p was closely associated with histological grades, FIGO stage and distant metastasis as well as reflected poor overall survival. Moreover, miR-103a-3p inhibition decreased the growth capacity of SiHa and HeLa cells by inducing cell apoptosis. And F-box and WD repeat-domain containing protein 7 (FBXW7), a well-known tumor suppressor in many cancer types, was identified as a direct target of miR-103a-3p. It was further found that FBXW7 was significantly downregulated in CC tissues, and it was inversely correlated with miR-103a-3p expression levels. Further investigation demonstrated that FBXW7 upregulation could simulate the roles of miR-103a-3p knockdown in cell viability and apoptosis. Moreover, FBXW7 knockdown efficiently abrogated the influences of CC cells proliferation caused by miR-103a-3p inhibition. Notably, miR-103a-3p could block FBXW7 mediated the downstream transcription factor pathways. Taken together, these findings suggest that miR-103a-3p functions as an oncogene in CC by targeting FBXW7.

microRNA-221 and tamoxifen resistance in luminal-subtype breast cancer patients: A case-control study

Background

Around 70% of breast cancers (BCs) are estrogen receptor-α (ERα)-positive. Adjuvant endocrine therapy is used to reduce estrogen levels and inhibit signal transduction through the ER. The anti-estrogen drugs that are most commonly used in endocrine therapy belong to the selective ER modulator (SERM) class and include tamoxifen. Although it has been used for three decades in cases of early-stage and ERα-positive BC, resistance to tamoxifen is a common problem. microRNAs (miRNAs) have a potential role in demonstrating BC resistance to tamoxifen therapy. Hence, there is a need to investigate the expression of miRNA-221 (miR-221) in luminal-subtype BC patients receiving tamoxifen therapy.

Methods

This case-control study investigated luminal-subtype BC patients who had undergone endocrine therapy for at least 1 year. The case group comprised patients with local or metastatic recurrence, and the control group comprised patients without local or metastatic recurrence.

Results

There was a significant difference in miR-221 expression (p = 0.005) between the case and control groups. There were no significant differences between the groups that were positive and negative for the progesterone receptor (PR) (p = 0.25), had high and low marker of proliferation Ki-67 levels (p = 0.60), were positive and negative for lymphovascular invasion (p = 0.14), and had stage 2 and stage 3 cancer (p = 0.25).

Conclusion

miR-221 expression was higher in tamoxifen-resistant BC cases. miR-221 is a potential biomarker of tamoxifen resistance.

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Tamoxifen is used to treat early-stage and estrogen receptor-α-positive breast cancer.

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Resistance to tamoxifen is a common problem.

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Serum microRNA-221 levels were higher in patients with local recurrence and metastasis.

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microRNA-221 is a potential serum biomarker of tamoxifen resistance.

Circ_0007580 knockdown strengthens the radiosensitivity of non-small cell lung cancer via the miR-598-dependent regulation of THBS2

Background

Radioresistance is a common cause of treatment failure in many cancers, including non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Circular RNA (circRNA) has been shown to be involved in the radiosensitivity of many cancers. However, the role and mechanism of circ_0007580 in the radiosensitivity of NSCLC remain unclear.

Methods

The expression levels of circ_0007580, miR‐598 and thrombospondin 2 (THBS2) were estimated by quantitative real‐time PCR. The radiosensitivity of cells was measured using colony formation assay. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were assessed by performing cell counting kit 8 assay, colony formation assay, flow cytometry, and by detecting caspase‐3 and caspase‐9 activities. Protein expression was determined using western blot analysis.

Results

Our data showed that circ_0007580 was highly expressed and miR‐598 was lowly expressed in radioresistant NSCLC tissues. Functional experiments suggested that circ_0007580 silencing could improve the radiosensitivity of cells by suppressing cell proliferation and increasing apoptosis. MiR‐598 was confirmed to be a target of circ_0007580, and its inhibitor could reverse the regulation of circ_0007580 on the radiosensitivity of NSCLC cells. MiR‐598 was found to target THBS2. The suppressive effect of miR‐598 on the radiosensitivity of cells could be reversed by THBS2 overexpression. Additionally, circ_0007580 could sponge miR‐598 to regulate THBS2. In vivo experiments showed that knockdown of circ_0007580 enhanced the radiosensitivity of NSCLC tumors.

Conclusions

Our results revealed that circ_0007580 might be a target for improving the radiosensitivity of NSCLC, which was mainly achieved by regulating the miR‐598/THBS2 axis.

Silencing lncRNA GAS5 alleviates apoptosis and fibrosis in diabetic cardiomyopathy by targeting miR-26a/b-5p

BACKGROUND

LncRNA GAS5 is associated with high glucose-induced cardiomyocyte injury, but its role in diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) remains unclear.

METHODS

Mice were administered with streptozotocin to construct the diabetic model (DM). Primary mouse cardiomyocytes were isolated and treated with 30 mmol/L high glucose to mimic the diabetic condition in vitro. GAS5 expression was detected by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. The relationship between GAS5 and miR-26a/b-5p was determined by bioinformatic prediction, luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation assay. The cardiac function of diabetic mice was evaluated by two-dimensional echocardiography.

RESULTS

GAS5 was significantly upregulated in diabetic cardiomyopathy both in vitro and in vivo. GAS5 knockdown and miR-26a/b-5p overexpression not only effectively attenuated myocardial fibrosis of diabetic mice in vivo but also inhibited high glucose-induced cardiomyocyte injury in vitro. miR-26a/b-5p was identified as a target of GAS5. GAS5 knockdown efficiently attenuated myocardial fibrosis and high glucose-induced cardiomyocyte injury through negatively regulating miR-26a/b-p.

CONCLUSION

Our study showed that GAS5 promotes DCM progression by regulating miR-26a/b-5p, suggesting that GAS5 might be a potential therapeutic target for DCM.

Long noncoding RNA HOXC-AS3 enhances the progression of cervical cancer via activating ErbB signaling pathway

Emerging evidence reveals that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) contribute to human tumorigenesis. Nevertheless, the function of HOXC cluster antisense RNA 3 (HOXC-AS3) in human cervical cancer (CC) remains largely unknown. The levels of HOXC-AS3, miR-105-5p and SOS1 in CC tissues and cells were monitored by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and western blot (WB). Gain- and loss-of-function experiments were conducted to verify the function of HOXC-AS3 and miR-105-5p in CC cells. Meanwhile, cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion were examined by the cell counting kit-8 (CCK8) experiment, colony formation assay, flow cytometry and Transwell assay. Dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay were carried out to test the regulatory interaction of HOXC-AS3, miR-105-5p and SOS1. In addition, in vivo experiment was performed to certain the role of HOXC-AS3 in tumorigenesis of CC. HOXC-AS3 was overexpressed in CC tissues (vs. adjacent normal tissues) and CC cells. Besides, the higher HOXC-AS3 profile was associated with the poorer clinical prognosis of CC patients. Overexpression of HOXC-AS3 promoted cell growth, migration and invasion, hampered apoptosis, whereas knocking down HOXC-AS3 exhibited the reverse effects. MiR-105-5p was a downstream target of HOXC-AS3, and it mediated the HOXC-AS3-induced oncogenic effects. Mechanistically, the bioinformatic analysis illustrated that SOS1 was targeted by miR-105-5p. Up-regulating SOS1 heightened the growth, migration and invasion of CC cells by enhancing the ErbB signaling pathway, which was reversed by miR-105-5p. Up-regulated HOXC-AS3 aggravates CC by promoting SOS1 expression via targeting miR-105-5p.

MicroRNA-Based Risk Score for Predicting Tumor Progression Following Radioactive Iodine Ablation in Well-Differentiated Thyroid Cancer Patients: A Propensity-Score Matched Analysis

Simple Summary

The three-tiered American Thyroid Association (ATA) risk stratification helps clinicians tailor decisions regarding follow-up modalities and the need for postoperative radioactive iodine (RAI) ablation and radiotherapy. However, a significant number of well-differentiated thyroid cancers (DTC) progress after treatment. Current follow-up modalities have also been proposed to detect disease relapse and recurrence but have failed to be sufficiently sensitive or specific to detect, monitor, or determine progression. Therefore, we assessed the predictive accuracy of the microRNA-based risk score in DTC with and without postoperative RAI. We confirm the prognostic role of triad biomarkers (miR-2f04, miR-221, and miR-222) with higher sensitivity and specificity for predicting disease progression than the ATA risk score. Compared to indolent tumors, a higher risk score was found in progressive samples and was associated with shorter survival. Consequently, our prognostic microRNA signature and nomogram provide a clinically practical and reliable ancillary measure to determine the prognosis of DTC patients.

Abstract

To identify molecular markers that can accurately predict aggressive tumor behavior at the time of surgery, a propensity-matching score analysis of archived specimens yielded two similar datasets of DTC patients (with and without RAI). Bioinformatically selected microRNAs were quantified by qRT-PCR. The risk score was generated using Cox regression and assessed using ROC, C-statistic, and Brier-score. A predictive Bayesian nomogram was established. External validation was performed, and causal network analysis was generated. Within the eight-year follow-up period, progression was reported in 51.5% of cases; of these, 48.6% had the T1a/b stage. Analysis showed upregulation of miR-221-3p and miR-222-3p and downregulation of miR-204-5p in 68 paired cancer tissues (p < 0.001). These three miRNAs were not differentially expressed in RAI and non-RAI groups. The ATA risk score showed poor discriminative ability (AUC = 0.518, p = 0.80). In contrast, the microRNA-based risk score showed high accuracy in predicting tumor progression in the whole cohorts (median = 1.87 vs. 0.39, AUC = 0.944) and RAI group (2.23 vs. 0.37, AUC = 0.979) at the cutoff >0.86 (92.6% accuracy, 88.6% sensitivity, 97% specificity) in the whole cohorts (C-statistics = 0.943/Brier = 0.083) and RAI subgroup (C-statistic = 0.978/Brier = 0.049). The high-score group had a three-fold increased progression risk (hazard ratio = 2.71, 95%CI = 1.86–3.96, p < 0.001) and shorter survival times (17.3 vs. 70.79 months, p < 0.001). Our prognostic microRNA signature and nomogram showed excellent predictive accuracy for progression-free survival in DTC.

Cervical cancer development, chemoresistance, and therapy: a snapshot of involvement of microRNA

Cervical cancer (CC) is one of the leading causes of death in women due to cancer and a major concern in the developing world. Persistent human papilloma virus (HPV) infection is the major causative agent for CC. Besides HPV infection, genetic and epigenetic factors including microRNA (miRNA) also contribute to the malignant transformation. Earlier studies have revealed that miRNAs participate in cell proliferation, invasion and metastasis, angiogenesis, and chemoresistance processes by binding and inversely regulating the target oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes. Based on functions and mechanistic insights, miRNAs have been identified as cellular modulators that have an enormous role in diagnosis, prognosis, and cancer therapy. Signatures of miRNA could be used as diagnostic markers which are necessary for early diagnosis and management of CC. The therapeutic potential of miRNAs has been shown in CC; however, more comprehensive clinical trials are required for the clinical translation of miRNA-based diagnostics and therapeutics. Understanding the molecular mechanism of miRNAs and their target genes has been useful to develop miRNA-based therapeutic strategies for CC and overcome chemoresistance. In this review, we summarize the role of miRNAs in the development, progression, and metastasis of CC as well as chemoresistance. Further, we discuss the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of miRNAs to overcome chemoresistance and treatment of CC.

TWIST2 inhibits EMT and induces oxidative stress in lung cancer cells by regulating the FGF21-mediated AMPK/mTOR pathway

Twist related protein 2 (TWIST2) plays an important role in bone development, tumorigenesis, tumour progression and epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT). At present, there are few reports about the role of TWIST2 in lung cancer, which need to be further explored. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to explore the role and molecular mechanism of TWIST2 in the occurrence and development of lung cancer. The expression of TWIST2 in tissues of patients and cell lines was measured using RT-qPCR and western blotting. MTT and CCK8 assays were used to detect cell proliferation and viability. Western blotting was used to measure the expression of EMT-related proteins, including E-cadherin, N-cadherin, Vimentin and Slug. The results revealed that TWIST2 is lowly expressed in the tissues of lung cancer patients and cell lines. Further studies found that overexpression of TWIST2 significantly induced apoptosis and promoted the expression of E-cadherin, as well as inhibiting the expression of N-cadherin, Vimentin and Slug. More importantly, TWIST2 induced oxidative stress in lung cancer cells. In addition, TWIST2 regulated the FGF21 and AMPK/mTOR signalling pathway, which is involved in the molecular mechanism of the gene in lung cancer cells. We suggest that the mechanism of TWIST2 inhibition of the progression of lung cancer is by regulating the FGF21-mediated AMPK/mTOR signalling pathway.

Plasma cell-free circRNAs panel act as fingerprint predicts the occurrence of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma

Background: Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have recently emerged as a new class of RNAs, highly enriched in the human tissues and very stable within cells, exosomes and body fluids. In this study, we aimed to screen the plasma cell-free derived circRNAs in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) and investigate whether these circRNAs could predicted LSCC as potential biomarkers.

Methods: The circRNA microarray was employed with three samples in each group to screen the dysregulated circRNAs isolated from plasma samples. The top 20 circRNAs were first selected as candidates with the upregulated level in the plasma of LSCC.

Results: Further validation found that only circ_0019201, circ_0011773 and circ_0122790 was consistent with training set. The ROC curve also revealed a high diagnostic ability an area under ROC curve value (AUC) for single circRNA and combined. The AUC for circ_0019201, circ_0011773 and circ_0122790 and the combined was 0.933, 0.908, 0.965 and 0.990 in training set. For the validation set, the AUC was 0.766, 0.864, 0.908 and 0.951. The three circRNAs were further investigated with stable expression in human plasma samples.

Conclusions: The plasma derived circ_0019201, circ_0011773 and circ_0122790 might be the potential biomarker for predicting the LSCC.

miR-122 Inhibits the Cervical Cancer Development by Targeting the Oncogene RAD21

Cervical cancer (CC) is one of the most frequently diagnosed tumors in female. miR-122 has been proved to be dominant in CC. The particular role of miR-122 in CC is unclear. Thus, we attempted to investigate the prognostic role of miR-122 in CC. We used the database of Kaplan-Meier curve plot. Growth and apoptosis of C33A cells were detected by CCK-8, colony formation assay, transwell assays and flow cytometry analysis. The target gene of miR-122 was identified using bioinformatics, q-PCR, western blot and luciferase assay. It showed that CC patients with overexpression of miR-122 have a better prognosis in the Kaplan-Meier plot database analysis. Overexpressed miR-122 inhibited the malignant growth and induced apoptosis of CC. miR-122 targeting of RAD21 cohesin complex component (RAD21) was identified using bioinformatics, Q-PCR, western blot and luciferase assay analyses. Moreover, we found miR-122 conduct its functions via RAD21 via the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Importantly, overexpression of RAD21 restored the roles of miR-122 in CC. Our data suggested that miR-122 could block malignant growth and promoted apoptosis by targeting RAD21 in CC. Our finding indicates miR-122 could potentially participate in the pathogenesis and be a biomarker or the potential therapeutic target of CC.

circMYC promotes cell proliferation, metastasis, and glycolysis in cervical cancer by up-regulating MET and sponging miR-577

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the role of circMYC in cervical cancer.

METHODS

Protein and RNA expression was detected by RT-qPCR and western blotting. Transwell, CCK8, and colony formation assays were used for measuring metastasis, cell viability, and proliferation, respectively. Lactate production, glucose uptake, and ATP generation were examined to evaluate cell glycolysis. Interactions between circMYC, miR-577, and MET were determined by RNA pull-down and immunoprecipitation, and dual-luciferase reporter assays. Xenografts were established in mice to evaluate the functions of circMYC in vivo.

RESULTS

circMYC was overexpressed in tumor tissue, which was related to poor prognosis. CircMYC knockdown reduced proliferation, colony formation, metastasis, and glycolysis in cervical cancer cells as well as inhibiting tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, circMYC targeted miR-577, and the effects of circMYC knockdown could be reversed by miR-577 inhibition. Moreover, miR-577 downregulated the expression of MET. Therefore, the oncogenic role of circMYC in cervical cancer was achieved by sponging miR-577 and maintaining MET expression.

CONCLUSION

circMYC promotes cervical cancer progression through regulation of the miR-577/MET axis. circMYC may thus be a potential target for diagnosing and treating cervical cancer.

A Metastasis-Related lncRNA Signature Correlates With the Prognosis in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma

To explore the role of metastasis-related long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) signature for predicting the prognosis of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) patients. Firstly, metastasis-associated genes were identified to establish a metastasis-related lncRNA signature by statistical analysis. Secondly, the ccRCC patients were grouped into high-risk or low-risk group according to the established signature, and the different pathways between the 2 groups were identified by gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). Finally, investigations involving PCR, transwell migration and invasion assay were carried out to further confirm our findings. The metastasis-related lncRNA signature was successfully constructed according to 7-metastasis-related genes (ADAM12, CD44, IL6, TFPI2, TGF-β1, THBS2, TIMP3). The diagnostic efficacy and the clinically predictive capacity of the signature were evaluated. Most of the values of the area under the time‐dependent receiver‐operating characteristic (ROC) were greater than 0.70. The nomogram constructed by integrating clinical data and risk scores confirmed that the risk score calculated from our signature was a good prognosis predictor. GSEA analysis showed that some tumor-related pathways were enriched in the high-risk group, while metabolism-related pathways were enriched in the low-risk group. In carcinoma tissues, the SSR3-6, WISP1-2 were highly expressed, but the expression of UBAC2-6 was low there. Knocking down SSR3-6 decreased the ability of migration and invasion in ccRCC cells. In conclusion, we successfully constructed a metastasis-related lncRNA signature, which could accurately predict the survival and prognosis of ccRCC patients.

Esophageal carcinoma cell-excreted exosomal uc.189 promotes lymphatic metastasis

Most cancers are old age-related diseases. Patients with lymphatic metastasis have an extremely poor prognosis in esophageal cancers (ECs). Previous studies showed ultraconserved RNAs are involved in tumorigenesis and ultraconserved RNA 189 (uc.189) served as an oncogene in cervical cancer, but the effect of exosomal uc.189 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains undefined. This study revealed that uc.189 is closely correlated with lymph node (LN) metastasis and the number of lymphatic vessels in ESCC. ESCC-secreted exosomal uc.189 is transferred into human lymphatic endothelial cells (HLECs) to promote its proliferation, migration and tube formation to facilitate lymph node metastasis. Mechanistically, uc.189 regulated EPHA2 expression by directly binding to its 3'UTR region through dual-luciferase reporter assay. Over-expression and knockdown of EPHA2 could respectively rescue and simulate the effects induced by exosomal uc.189. Especially, the uc.189-EPHA2 axis activates the P38MAPK/VEGF-C pathway in HLECs. Finally, ESCC-secreted exosomal of uc.189 promotes HLECs sprouting in vitro, migration, and lymphangiogenesis. Thus, these findings suggested that exosomal uc.189 targets the EPHA2 of HLECs to promote lymphangiogenesis, and may represent a novel marker of diagnosis and treatment for ESCC patients in early stages.

Overexpression of MicroRNA 142-5p Suppresses the Progression of Cervical Cancer through Targeting Phosphoinositol-3-Kinase Adaptor Protein 1 Expression

The aim of current study was to explore the mechanism of microRNA 142-5p (miR-142-5p) in cervical cancer through mediating the phosphoinositol-3-kinase adaptor protein 1 (PIK3AP1)/PI3K/AKT axis. To this end, reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) and Western blot analysis results revealed that miR-142-5p was poorly expressed, whereas PIK3AP1 was highly expressed, in cervical cancer tissues and cells. Furthermore, miR-142-5p was hypermethylated in cervical cancer, as reflected by methylation-specific PCR (MS-PCR) and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assessment of enrichment of DNMT1/DNMT3a/DNMT3b in the promoter region of miR-142-5p. A target binding relationship between miR-142-5p and PIK3AP1 was established, showing that miR-142-5p targeted and inhibited the expression of PIK3AP1. Loss- and gain-of-function assays were conducted to determine the roles of miR-142-5p and PIK3AP1 in cervical cancer cells. CCK-8, flow cytometry, and Transwell assay results revealed that overexpression of miR-142-5p in cervical cancer cells downregulated PIK3AP1 and inhibited the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, leading to reduced proliferation, migration, and invasion capacity of cervical cancer cells but enhanced apoptosis. Collectively, epigenetic regulation of miR-142-5p targeted PIK3AP1 to inactivate the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, thus suppressing development of cervical cancer, which presents new targets for the treatment of cervical cancer.

Role of miRNAs in cervical cancer: A comprehensive novel approach from pathogenesis to therapy

Human papillomaviruses (HPV) infection is a major causative agent and strongly associated with the development of cervical cancer. Understanding the mechanisms of HPV-induced cervical cancer is extremely useful in therapeutic strategies for primary prevention (HPV vaccines) and secondary prevention (screening and diagnosis of precancerous lesions). However, due to the lack of proper implementation of screening programs in developing countries, cervical cancer is usually diagnosed at advanced stages that result in poor treatment responses. Nearly half of the patients will experience disease recurrence within two years post treatment. Therefore, it is vital to identify new tools for early diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment prediction. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs, implicated in posttranscriptional regulation of gene expression. Growing evidence has shown that abnormal miRNA expression is associated with cervical cancer progression, metastasis, and influences treatment outcomes. In this review, we provide comprehensive information about miRNA and their potential utility in cervical cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and clinical management to improve patient outcomes.

Oncogenic LncRNA CASC9 in Cancer Progression

BACKGROUND

Long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs), with the length of over 200 nucleotides, that originate from intergenic, antisense, or promoter-proximal regions, are a large family of RNAs that lack coding capacity. Emerging evidences illustrated that LncRNAs played significant roles in a variety of cellular functions and biological processes in profuse human diseases, especially in cancers. Cancer susceptibility candidate 9 (CASC9), as a member of the LncRNAs group, firstly found its oncogenic function in esophageal cancer. In the following recent studies, a growing amount of human malignancies are verified to be correlated with CASC9, most of which are derived from the squamous epithelium tissue. This present review attempts to highlight the latest insights into the expression, functional roles, and molecular mechanisms of CASC9 in different human malignancies.

METHODS

In this review, the latest findings related to the pathophysiological processes of CASC9 in human cancers were summarized and analyzed, and the associated studies collected in systematic retrieval of PubMed used lncRNA and CASA9 as keywords.

RESULTS

CASC9 expression is identified to be aberrantly elevated in a variety of malignancies. The over-expression of CASC9 has been suggested to accelerate cell proliferation, migration, cell growth and drug resistance of cancer cells, while depressing cell apoptosis, revealing its role as an oncogene. Moreover, the current review demonstrated CASC9 as closely related to the neoplastic transformation of squamous epithelial cells and squamous metaplasia in non-squamous epithelial tissues. Finally, we discuss the limitations and tremendous diagnostic/ therapeutic potential of CASC9 in various human cancers.

CONCLUSION

Long non-coding RNA CASC9 likely serve as useful disease biomarkers or therapeutic targets which be effectively applied in the treatment of different kinds of cancers.

MicroRNA-125a-5p targets LIM kinase 1 to inhibit cisplatin resistance of cervical cancer cells

Cervical cancer (CC), also known as invasive cervical carcinoma, is one of the most common gynecologic malignancies. The aim of the present study was to investigate the function of microRNA (miR)-125a-5p on CC progression and cisplatin (DDP) resistance. For this purpose, reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was used to assess the expression of miR-125a-5p and LIMK1 in CC tissues, corresponding normal tissues and cells (human CC cell lines: C-33A, CaSKi; human cervical epithelial cells: HUCEC). Cisplatin (DDP) resistant cervical cancer cell lines were established (C-33A/DDP and CaSKi/DDP cell lines). RT-qPCR results demonstrated that miR-125a-5p or LIM kinase 1 (LIMK1) expression was downregulated or upregulated in C-33A/DDP and CaSKi/DDP cells, respectively. MTT assay, flow cytometry analysis and Western blotting were employed to detect the proliferation, apoptosis rate, IC₅₀ of DDP and the expression of drug resistance-related proteins (P-glycoprotein and glutathione S-transferase-π). The targeting relationship between miR-125a-5p and LIMK1 was confirmed by the TargetScan database and dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. In CC tissues and cell lines, compared with normal tissues or HUCEC, miR-125a-5p expression was downregulated and LIMK1 expression was upregulated. The transfection with miR-125a-5p mimics decreased the proliferation of CaSKi/DDP cells, increased the apoptosis rate, reduced the IC₅₀ of DDP, and downregulated the expression of drug resistance-related proteins; conversely, LIMK1 overexpression decreased the apoptosis rate, increased the IC₅₀ of DDP, and upregulated the expression of drug resistance-related proteins. The luciferase reporter gene assay demonstrated that miR-125a-5p targeted and negatively regulated LIMK1. miR-125a-5p could partially reverse the effect of LIMK1 on the proliferation, apoptosis, IC₅₀ of DDP and the expressions of drug resistance-related proteins. The findings of the present study indicated that miR-125a-5p sensitizes CC cells to DDP by targeting LIMK1, hence increasing the anticancer efficacy of cisplatin.

Roles of Non-Coding RNAs in Cervical Cancer Metastasis

Metastasis remains to be a huge challenge in cancer therapy. The mechanism underlying cervical cancer metastasis is not well understood and needs to be elucidated. Recent studies have highlighted the diverse roles of non-coding RNAs in cancer progression and metastasis. Increasing numbers of miRNAs, lncRNAs and circRNAs are found to be dysregulated in cervical cancer, associated with metastasis. They have been shown to regulate metastasis through regulating metastasis-related genes, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, signaling pathways and interactions with tumor microenvironment. Moreover, miRNAs can interact with lncRNAs and circRNAs respectively during this complex process. Herein, we review literatures up to date involving non-coding RNAs in cervical cancer metastasis, mainly focus on the underlying mechanisms and highlight the interaction network between miRNAs and lncRNAs, as well as circRNAs. Finally, we discuss the therapeutic prospects.

Noncoding RNAs Associated with Therapeutic Resistance in Pancreatic Cancer

Therapeutic resistance is an inevitable impediment towards effective cancer therapies. Evidence accumulated has shown that the signaling pathways and related factors are fundamentally responsible for therapeutic resistance via regulating diverse cellular events, such as epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), stemness, cell survival/apoptosis, autophagy, etcetera. Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) have been identified as essential cellular components in gene regulation. The expression of ncRNAs is altered in cancer, and dysregulated ncRNAs participate in gene regulatory networks in pathological contexts. An in-depth understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying the modulation of therapeutic resistance is required to refine therapeutic benefits. This review presents an overview of the recent evidence concerning the role of human ncRNAs in therapeutic resistance, together with the feasibility of ncRNAs as therapeutic targets in pancreatic cancer.

Chemotherapy-Enriched THBS2-Deficient Cancer Stem Cells Drive Hepatocarcinogenesis through Matrix Softness Induced Histone H3 Modifications

The physical microenvironment is a critical mediator of tumor behavior. However, detailed biological and mechanistic insight is lacking. The present study reveals the role of chemotherapy-enriched CD133+ liver cancer stem cells (CSCs) with THBS2 deficiency. This subpopulation of cells contributes to a more aggressive cancer and functional stemness phenotype in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by remodeling the extracellular matrix (ECM) through the regulation of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity, collagen degradation, and matrix stiffness. The local soft spots created by these liver CSCs can enhance stemness and drug resistance and provide a route of escape to facilitate HCC metastasis. Interestingly, a positive feed-forward loop is identified where a local soft spot microenvironment in the HCC tumor is enriched with CD133 expressing cells that secrete markedly less ECM-modifying THBS2 upon histone H3 modification at its promoter region, allowing the maintenance of a localized soft spot matrix. Clinically, THBS2 deficiency is also correlated with low HCC survival, where high levels of CSCs with low THBS2 expression in HCC are associated with decreased collagen fiber deposits and an invasive tumor front. The findings have implications for the treatment of cancer stemness and for the prevention of tumor outgrowth through disseminated tumor cells.

Exosomal microRNAs and exosomal long non-coding RNAs in gynecologic cancers

Gynecologic cancer is a group of any malignancies affecting reproductive tissues and organs of women, including ovaries, uterine, cervix, vagina, vulva, and endometrium. Several types of molecular mechanisms are associated with the progression of gynecologic cancers. Among it can be referred to the most widely studied non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), specifically microRNAs (miRNAs) and long ncRNAs (lncRNAs). As yet, lncRNAs are known to serve key biological roles via various mechanisms, such as splicing regulation, chromatin rearrangement, translation regulation, cell-cycle control, genetic imprinting and mRNA decay. Besides, miRNAs govern gene expression by modulation of mRNAs and lncRNAs degradation, suggestive of needing more research in this field. Generally, driving gynecological cancers pathways by miRNAs and lncRNAs lead to the current improvement in cancer-related technologies. Exosomes are extracellular microvesicles which can carry cargo molecules among cells. In recent years, more studies have been focused on exosomal non-coding RNAs (exo-ncRNAs) and exosomal microRNAs (exo-miRs) because of being natural carriers of lnc RNAs and microRNAs via programmed process. In this review we summarized recent reports concerning the function of exosomal microRNAs and exosomal long non-coding RNAs in gynecological cancers.

Differentially expressed circulating microRNAs associated with idiopathic recurrent pregnancy loss

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is a major pregnancy complication which reportedly affects 2-3% of all pregnancies. Currently, RPL lacks an effective therapy and a reliable diagnostic and prognostic biomarker. Circulating microRNAs were recently described as potential biomarkers of pregnancy-associated complications. The aim of this study was to determine microRNA expression patterns in the plasma of RPL patients as potential early biomarker of RPL. Study subjects comprised 20 women with early RPL (miscarriage at 8-12 weeks of gestation), and 20 age- and gestation-matched multiparous control women. Circulating microRNAs were extracted from maternal plasma, and the differential microRNA expression were determined using customized pathway-focused miRNA profiler kit. Of the 10 differentially-expressed microRNAs identified, Hsa-let-7e, Hsa-miR-221-3p, Hsa-miR-16, Hsa-miR-519d, Hsa-miR-184, Hsa-miR-410 were upregulated, while Hsa-miR-21, Hsa-miR-125, Hsa-let-7a, Hsa-let-7d were downregulated in RPL cases as compared to control women. Of these, 5 novel microRNAs were reported for the first time to be associated with RPL. These comprised Hsa-let-7e, Hsa-miR-519d, Hsa-miR-410 which were upregulated, and Hsa-let-7a, Hsa-let-7d which were downregulated in RPL. While its association with RPL was reported earlier, this study is also the first to report on the upregulation of Hsa-miR-184 in circulating fluids in association with RPL. The study provides for understanding circulating microRNAs expression pattern in RPL which may be involved in its pathogenesis and demonstrates their potential role as noninvasive diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for RPL.

LINC01235-TWIST2 feedback loop facilitates epithelial-mesenchymal transition in gastric cancer by inhibiting THBS2

Although the anomalous expression of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) has been extensively investigated in numerous carcinomas including gastric cancer (GC), their function remains unclear. The aim of our study was to explore the role of LINC01235 in GC. We used real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) to measure the expression of LINC01235 and twist family bHLH transcription factor 2 (TWIST2) in GC tissues. Scratch and transwell assays were performed to evaluate cellular capacity for migration and invasion. Gene relationships were explored by Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis (WGCNA). We measured TWIST2, thrombospondin 2 (THBS2) and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related proteins with western blot. We also used Pearson correlation analysis and the Kaplan-Meier method to detect associations among genes and overall survival. We found that LINC01235 was upregulated in GC tissues and cells. LINC01235 down-regulation restricted migration and invasion. Interestingly, we found the LINC01235-TWIST2-THBS2 axis induced EMT. Additionally, TWIST2 upregulated LINC01235 transcription in luciferase and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays. Bioinformatics analysis showed that microRNA (miR)-6852-5p might be a key gene involved in the regulation of TWIST2 by LINC01235. The LINC01235-TWIST2 positive feedback loop mainly affected migration and invasion of GC cells, which suggests it may serve as a potential therapeutic target in gastric cancer.

Periostin+ cancer-associated fibroblasts promote lymph node metastasis by impairing the lymphatic endothelial barriers in cervical squamous cell carcinoma

Lymph node metastasis (LNM), a critical prognostic determinant in cancer patients, is critically influenced by the presence of numerous heterogeneous cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in the tumor microenvironment. However, the phenotypes and characteristics of the various pro‐metastatic CAF subsets in cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) remain unknown. Here, we describe a CAF subpopulation with elevated periostin expression (periostin⁺CAFs), located in the primary tumor sites and metastatic lymph nodes, that positively correlated with LNM and poor survival in CSCC patients. Mechanistically, periostin⁺CAFs impaired lymphatic endothelial barriers by activating the integrin‐FAK/Src‐VE‐cadherin signaling pathway in lymphatic endothelial cells and consequently enhanced metastatic dissemination. In contrast, inhibition of the FAK/Src signaling pathway alleviated periostin‐induced lymphatic endothelial barrier dysfunction and its related effects. Notably, periostin^‐CAFs were incapable of impairing endothelial barrier integrity, which may explain the occurrence of CAF‐enriched cases without LNM. In conclusion, we identified a specific periostin⁺CAF subset that promotes LNM in CSCC, mainly by impairing the lymphatic endothelial barriers, thus providing the basis for potential stromal fibroblast‐targeted interventions that block CAF‐dependent metastasis.

Thrombospondin 2/Toll-Like Receptor 4 Axis Contributes to HIF-1α-Derived Glycolysis in Colorectal Cancer

Background

Aerobic glycolysis is a typical metabolic reprogramming in tumor cells, which contributes to the survival and proliferation of tumor cells. The underlying mechanisms controlling this metabolic switch in colorectal cancer (CRC), however, remain only partially understood.

Methods

The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) (GDS4382, GSE6988, GSE35834) were used to analyzed the mRNA expression of THBS2. 392 paired samples of CRC and adjacent non-cancerous tissues were collected to detect the expression of THBS2 by IHC. The correlation of THBS2 expression with categorical clinical variables in patients with CRC was evaluated using chi-square analysis or Student's t-test. CCK-8, colony formation, and animal CT scan were used to functional analysis of THBS2 in CRC.

Results

Thrombospondin 2 (THBS2) is aberrantly upregulated and linked to a poor prognosis in CRC. Subsequent experiments also showed that THBS2 promotes the proliferation of CRC cells. In terms of mechanism, THBS2 interacted with Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), but not with the other toll-like receptors (TLRs), which upregulated the mRNA expression of GLUT1, HK2, ALDOA, PKM2, and LDHA and enhanced glycolytic capacity in CRC cells. Moreover, THBS2/TLR4 axis significantly increased the protein level of HIF-1α and blocking HIF-1α by siRNA reversed the enhanced glycolytic capacity and the upregulated expression of glycolytic enzymes in CRC cells.

Conclusion

Our findings revealed that the THBS2/TLR4 axis contributes to HIF-1α derived glycolysis and eventually promotes CRC progress.

miR-221-3p promotes hepatocellular carcinogenesis by downregulating O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase

This study aimed to investigate the influence of miR-221-3p and O⁶-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) interaction in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), thereby revealing a novel molecular mechanism of hepatic carcinogenesis involving miR-221-3p and MGMT.

Fluorescence qPCR and immunoblot assays were performed to determine the expression of RNA and protein in HCC tissues and cell lines. We also employed the firefly and Renilla luciferase assay to verify the target relationship between miR-221-3p and MGMT mRNA. Assessments including the MTT assay, wound-healing assay, transwell assay, colony foci formation experiment, and flow cytometric experiment were carried out to determine the viability, migration, invasion, proliferation, cell cycle progression, and apoptosis of SMMC-7721 and BEL-7404 cell lines with the modulated expression of miR-221-3p and MGMT. Compared to healthy tissues and cell line HL7702, miR-221-3p was significantly upregulated but MGMT was significantly downregulated in carcinomas and cancerous cell lines. Forced miR-221-3p overexpression was found to enhance the proliferation, migration, invasion, and clonogenicity of cell lines, but it suppressed cell apoptosis. Findings also revealed that forced miR-221-3p overexpression had little effect on cell cycle progression. After MGMT was confirmed to be atarget gene of miR-221-3p, it was found that the forced upregulation of miR-221-3p downregulated MGMT mRNA and protein levels significantly. MiR-221-3p was identified as an HCC promoting factor, and it specifically inhibited the expression of the MGMT. Besides, the upregulation of miR-221-3p had apositive influence on HCC pathogenesis by inhibiting MGMT expression.

Thrombospondin-2 stimulates MMP-9 production and promotes osteosarcoma metastasis via the PLC, PKC, c-Src and NF-κB activation

Osteosarcoma is an extremely common primary bone malignancy that is highly metastatic, with most deaths resulting from pulmonary metastases. The extracellular matrix protein thrombospondin‐2 (TSP‐2) is key to many biological processes, such as inflammation, wound repair and tissue remodelling. However, it is unclear as to what biological role TSP‐2 plays in human metastatic osteosarcoma. The immunochemistry analysis from osteosarcoma specimens identified marked up‐regulation of TSP‐2 in late‐stage osteosarcoma. Furthermore, we found that TSP‐2 increased the levels of matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP‐9) expression and thereby increased the migratory potential of human osteosarcoma cells. Osteosarcoma cells pre‐treated with an MMP‐9 monoclonal antibody (mAb), an MMP‐9 inhibitor, or transfected with MMP‐9 small interfering RNA (siRNA) reduced the capacity of TSP‐2 to potentiate cell migration. TSP‐2 treatment activated the PLCβ, PKCα, c‐Src and nuclear kappa factor B (NF‐κB) signalling pathways, while the specific siRNA, inhibitors and mutants of these cascades reduced TSP‐2‐induced stimulation of migration activity. Knockdown of TSP‐2 expression markedly reduced cell metastasis in cellular and animal experiments. It appears that an interaction between TSP‐2 and integrin αvβ3 activates the PLCβ, PKCα and c‐Src signalling pathways and subsequently activates NF‐κB signalling, increasing MMP‐9 expression and stimulating migratory activity amongst human osteosarcoma cells.

Exosomal microRNAs: novel players in cervical cancer

Cervical cancer ranks fourth for both mortality and morbidity in women globally. Exosomes are considered as extracellular vesicles, secreted continuously by many cells with a size range from 30 to 150 nm. Exosomes can encapsulate microRNAs (miRNAs) and release them for cellular communications. This exosome-induced miRNA transfer is a novel strategy for genetic exchange among cells. This trafficking modality affects many pathological as well as physiological conditions. Moreover, exosomes can protect the miRNAs against harsh environments and keep them very stable. Given that a variety of exosomal miRNAs derived from cervical cancer cells can be targeted to recipient cells and contribute to tumorgenesis, it has been documented that exosomal miRNAs could be applied as diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers in the treatment of cervical cancer. Herein, we summarize the pathologic and diagnostic roles of exosomal miRNAs in the cervical cancer. Moreover, we highlight the roles of exosomal miRNAs in other cancers.

TFPI-2 inhibits the invasion and metastasis of bladder cancer cells

INTRODUCTION

Bladder cancer metastasis seriously affects the prognosis of patients, but its molecular mechanism is unclear. This study sought to explore the roles of tissue factor pathway inhibitor-2 (TFPI-2) gene overexpression in the infiltration and metastasis of bladder cancer.

MATERIALS

Firstly, real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry were used to compare the mRNA and protein expression levels, respectively, of TFPI-2 and matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) in adjacent non-tumoral tissues, muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) tissues, and non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) tissues. BIU-87-TFPI-2 cells that stably expressed TFPI-2 were generated by transfection with pcDNA3.1-TFPI-2. Real-time PCR and western blotting were performed to determine the mRNA and protein expression levels, respectively, of TFPI-2 and MMP-1 in BIU-87-TFPI-2 cells. The invasion and migration abilities of BIU-87-TFPI-2 cells were investigated using the Transwell chamber method.

RESULTS

TFPI-2 was found to be significantly downregulated in bladder cancer tissue. The expression of MMP-1 was increased with the progression of bladder cancer. BIU-87 cells that overexpressed TFPI-2 were successfully generated by transfection with pcDNA3.1-TFPI-2. TFPI-2 overexpression in BIU-87 cells significantly inhibited cancer cell invasion and metastasis. Furthermore, the mRNA and protein expression levels of MMP-1 were significantly reduced in TFPI-2-overexpressing cells.

CONCLUSION

Decreased TFPI-2 expression in bladder tissue was correlated with invasion and metastasis in bladder cancer. TFPI-2 overexpression could inhibit bladder cancer cell invasion and migration in vitro by inhibiting MMP-1 protein expression.

LEVEL OF PROOF

3.

MicroRNAs: potential biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis of different cancers

A thorough understanding of the tumor environment and underlying genetic factors helps in the better formulation of cancer management strategies. Availability of efficient diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers facilitates early detection and progression of the disease. MicroRNAs affect different biological processes participating in tumorigenesis through regulation of their target genes. An expanding list of unique RNAs and understanding of their regulatory role has opened up a new field in cancer research. Based on a comprehensive literature search, we identified 728 miRNAs dysregulated in sixteen cancer types namely bladder cancer (BC), breast cancer (BrC), cervical cancer (CC), colorectal cancer (CRC), esophageal cancer (EC), endometrial cancer (EnC), gastric cancer (GC), hepatocellular cancer (HCC), head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC), lung cancer (LC), ovarian cancer (OC), pancreatic cancer (PC), prostate cancer (PrC), renal cell cancer (RCC), skin cancer (SC), and thyroid cancer (TC). Expression of 43 miRNAs was either upregulated or downregulated in six or more of these cancers. Finally, seven miRNAs namely mir-18a, mir-21, mir-143/145, mir-210, mir-218, mir-221, showing maximum dysregulation, either up- or down-regulation in the majority of cancers, were selected for a detailed presentation of their expression and evaluation of their potential as biomarkers in the diagnosis and prognosis of different cancers.