MiR-135b-5p and MiR-499a-3p Promote Cell Proliferation and Migration in Atherosclerosis by Directly Targeting MEF2C

A Review of MicroRNAs and lncRNAs in Atherosclerosis as Well as Some Major Inflammatory Conditions Affecting Atherosclerosis

It is generally accepted that atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease. The link between atherosclerosis and other inflammatory diseases such as psoriasis, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) via metabolic, inflammatory, and immunoregulatory pathways is well established. The aim of our review was to summarize the associations between selected microRNAs (miRs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and atherosclerosis, psoriasis, T2DM, and RA. We reviewed the role of miR-146a, miR-210, miR-143, miR-223, miR-126, miR-21, miR-155, miR-145, miR-200, miR-133, miR-135, miR-221, miR-424, let-7, lncRNA-H19, lncRNA-MEG3, lncRNA-UCA1, and lncRNA-XIST in atherosclerosis and psoriasis, T2DM, and RA. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a method of intracellular signal transduction. Their function depends on surface expression, cargo, and the cell from which they originate. The majority of the studies that investigated lncRNAs and some miRs had relatively small sample sizes, which limits the generalizability of their findings and indicates the need for more research. Based on the studies reviewed, miR-146a, miR-155, miR-145, miR-200, miR-133, and lncRNA-H19 are the most promising potential biomarkers and, possibly, therapeutic targets for atherosclerosis as well as T2DM, RA, and psoriasis.

CircZNF609 sponges miR-135b to up-regulate SEMA3A expression to alleviate ox-LDL-induced atherosclerosis

The initiation and progression of atherosclerotic plaque caused by abnormal lipid metabolism is one of the main causes of atherosclerosis (AS). Lipid droplet accumulation has become a novel research pointcut for AS treatment in recent years. In AS patients, miR-135b level was up-regulated relative to the normal cases, which showed negative correlations with the levels of Semaphorin 3A (SEMA3A) and circZNF609, separately. The U937-derived macrophages were cultured with ox-LDL to establish AS models in vitro. After that, the lipid accumulation, inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction and cell death were evaluated by ORO, ELISA, RT-qPCR, western blot, JC-1 and FCM assays respectively. Transfection of the circZNF609 expression vector notably declined lipid accumulation, attenuated inflammation, reduced mitochondrial dysfunction and inhibited cell death in ox-LDL-stimulated cells. The direct binding of miR-135b to circZNF609 in vitro was confirmed using RIP assay, and SEMA3A expression was up-regulated by circZNF609 overexpression. After manipulating the endogenous expressions of circZNF609, miR-135b and SEMA3A, the above damages in ox-LDL-stimulated cells were rescued by inhibition of miR-135b expression and overexpression of circZNF609 or SEMA3A. Besides, the AS mice model was built to demonstrate the excessive lipid accumulation, increasing inflammation and cell death in AS pathogenesis according to the results of HE staining, ELISA and IHC assays, while these damages were reversed after overexpression of circZNF609 or SEMA3A. In AS models, overexpressed circZNF609 prevents the AS progression through depleting miR-135b expression and subsequent up-regulation of SEMA3A expression to overwhelm lipid accumulation, mitochondrial dysfunction and cell death.

Hsa_ circ_0006867 regulates ox-LDL-induced endothelial injury via the miR-499a-3p/ADAM10 axis

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been reported to participate in the development of various diseases. In this study, we investigated the potential mechanism underlying the role of circRNAs in atherosclerosis. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were treated with 100μg/mL oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) to simulate atherosclerosis. We observed that hsa_circ_0006867 (circ_0006867), a circRNA markedly increased in ox-LDL-treated endothelial cells, acted as a molecular sponge of miR-499a-3p and regulated its expression. This interaction led to changes in the downstream target gene ADAM10, thus affecting cell apoptosis and migration. Thus, our study suggests that circ_0006867 regulates ox-LDL-induced endothelial injury via the circ_0006867/miR-499a-3p/ADAM10 axis, indicating its potential as an exploitable therapeutic target for atherosclerosis.

The preliminary study of exosomes derived from thymosin beta 4-treated adipose-derived stem cells in fat grafting

BACKGROUND

The retention rate in autologous fat grafting is an increasing concern for surgeons and patients. Our previous research verified that thymosin beta 4 (Tβ4) positively affected fat survival, while the mechanism was unknown. The endothelial cells (ECs) and exosomes derived from adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) were regarded to play a critical role in fat transplantation.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of exosomes derived from Tβ4-treated ADSCs on EC proliferation and to identify the exosomal microRNA (miRNA) profile compared with the Tβ4-untreated group. Additionally, this research intended to recognize the related molecules and signaling pathways in the Tβ4-treated group with potential roles in fat transplants.

METHODS

ADSCs were collected from patients who underwent liposuction surgery. Depending on whether the medium was supplemented with exogenous Tβ4 or not, exosomes derived from cultured ADSCs were divided into the Tβ4-Exos group and Con-Exos group. Exosome uptake and cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assays assessed the influence of Tβ4-Exos on EC proliferation. The exosomal miRNAs of the two groups were analyzed by next-generation sequencing. With the criteria at the |log₂ (fold change)| ≥ 1 and p-value < 0.05, up-regulated and down-regulated differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) were obtained. Prediction databases were used to predict the downstream mRNAs for DEMs. And then, overlapping genes for the up-regulated DEMs and the down-regulated were screened out, followed by enrichment analysis, protein-protein interaction network construction, and the gene cluster and hub gene identification.

RESULTS

ADSCs were obtained from four female patients. The exosome uptake and CCK-8 assays showed that the Tβ4-Exos could increase cell growth rate compared with the control group (DMEM-H + PBS). In Tβ4-Exos and Con-Exos groups, 2651 exosomal miRNAs were recognized, with 80 up-regulated and 99 down-regulated DEMs according to the criteria. After the prediction, 621 overlapping genes for the up-regulated and 572 for the down-regulated DEMs were screened. The subsequent bioinformatics analysis found specific molecules and pathways related to the positive effect on fat survival.

CONCLUSIONS

The exosomes derived from Tβ4-treated ADSCs probably positively affect EC proliferation. Compared with the Con-Exos group, several exosomal DEMs, genes, and pathways were distinguished. These findings of this exploratory study provide the potential direction for future in-depth research on fat grafting.

Transcription factors: key regulatory targets of vascular smooth muscle cell in atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis (AS), leading to gradual occlusion of the arterial lumen, refers to the accumulation of lipids and inflammatory debris in the arterial wall. Despite therapeutic advances over past decades including intervention or surgery, atherosclerosis is still the most common cause of cardiovascular diseases and the main mechanism of death and disability worldwide. Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) play an imperative role in the occurrence of atherosclerosis and throughout the whole stages. In the past, there was a lack of comprehensive understanding of VSMCs, but the development of identification technology, including in vivo single-cell sequencing technology and lineage tracing with the CreERT2-loxP system, suggests that VSMCs have remarkable plasticity and reevaluates well-established concepts about the contribution of VSMCs. Transcription factors, a kind of protein molecule that specifically recognizes and binds DNA upstream promoter regions or distal enhancer DNA elements, play a key role in the transcription initiation of the coding genes and are necessary for RNA polymerase to bind gene promoters. In this review, we highlight that, except for environmental factors, VSMC genes are transcriptionally regulated through complex interactions of multiple conserved cis-regulatory elements and transcription factors. In addition, through a series of transcription-related regulatory processes, VSMCs could undergo phenotypic transformation, proliferation, migration, calcification and apoptosis. Finally, enhancing or inhibiting transcription factors can regulate the development of atherosclerotic lesions, and the downstream molecular mechanism of transcriptional regulation has also been widely studied.

Association between polymorphisms in miRNAs and ischemic stroke: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Atherosclerosis remains a predominant cause of ischemic stroke (IS). Four miRNA polymorphisms associated with arteriosclerosis mechanism were meta-analyzed to explore whether they had predictive significance for IS.

METHODS

PubMed, Excerpta Medica database, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Scopus, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and China Wanfang Database were searched for relevant case-control studies published before September 2022. Two researchers independently reviewed the studies and extracted the data. Data synthesis was carried out on eligible studies. Meta-analysis, subgroup analysis, sensitivity analysis, and publication bias analysis were performed using Stata software 16.0.

RESULTS

Twenty-two studies were included, comprising 8879 cases and 12,091 controls. The results indicated that there were no significant associations between miR-146a C>G (rs2910164), miR-196a2 T>C (rs11614913) and IS risk in the overall analyses, but miR-149 T>C (rs2292832) and miR-499 A>G (rs3746444) increased IS risk under the allelic model, homozygote model and recessive model. The subgroup analyses based on Trial of Org 101072 in Acute Stroke Treatment classification indicated that rs2910164 increased small artery occlusion (SAO) risk under the allelic model, heterozygote model and dominant model; rs11614913 decreased the risk of SAO under the allelic model, homozygote model, heterozygote model and dominant model.

CONCLUSION

This Meta-analysis showed that all 4 single nucleotide polymorphisms were associated with the risk of IS or SAO, even though the overall and subgroup analyses were not entirely consistent.

Integrative analyses of immune-related biomarkers and associated mechanisms in coronary heart disease

Various studies showed that the effect of immune activation is pro-atherogenic and coronary heart disease (CHD) should therefore be considered an autoimmune disease. This study aimed to identify potential immune-related biomarkers, pathways, and the potential regulatory networks underlying CHD. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between CHD and control samples were determined by analyzing GSE71226 and GSE9128. The overlapping differential expression immune-related genes (DE-IRGs) for CHD were identified by analyzing the ImmPort database and two GEO databases. A total of 384 DE-IRGs were identified. Subsequently, comprehensive enrichment analyses suggested that DE-IRGs were enriched in immune-related pathways, including autoimmune thyroid disease, the intestinal immune network for IGA production, and downstream signaling events of B cell receptors. The signature of DE-IRGs was validated using an external independent dataset GSE20681 (AUC = 0.875). Furthermore, we conducted protein–protein interaction network analysis and identified eight hub genes, which were most enriched in regulation of defense response, NF-κB signaling pathway, regulation of JNK cascade, and regulation of cytokine production. Moreover, networks of miRNAs-mRNAs and transcription factors (TFs)-mRNA underlying the integrated data were established, involving eight miRNAs and 76 TF-targeting hub genes. Ultimately, 17 SNPs in miRNA-mediated gene networks were identified. We screened potential immune-related genes in CHD and constructed miRNA-mRNA-TF and SNP-miRNA networks, which not only provide inspired insights into the occurrence and the molecular mechanisms of CHD but also lay a foundation for targeting potential biomarkers using immunotherapy and for understanding the molecular mechanisms of CHD.

A review on the importance of miRNA-135 in human diseases

MicroRNA-135 (miR-135) is a microRNA which is involved in the pathoetiology of several neoplastic and non-neoplastic conditions. Both tumor suppressor and oncogenic roles have been reported for this miRNA. Studies in prostate, renal, gallbladder and nasopharyngeal cancers as well as glioma have shown down-regulation of miR-135 in cancerous tissues compared with controls. These studies have also shown the impact of miR-135 down-regulation on enhancement of cell proliferation and aggressive behavior. Meanwhile, miR-135 has been shown to be up-regulated in bladder, oral, colorectal and liver cancers. Studies in breast, gastric, lung and pancreatic cancers as well as head and neck squamous cell carcinoma have reported dual roles for miR-135. Dysregulation of miR-135 has also been noted in various non-neoplastic conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, atherosclerosis, depression, diabetes, Parkinson, pulmonary arterial hypertension, nephrotic syndrome, endometriosis, epilepsy and allergic conditions. In the current review, we summarize the role of miR-135 in the carcinogenesis as well as development of other disorders.

Transcriptional regulation of vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation, differentiation and senescence: Novel targets for therapy

Vascular smooth muscle cells (SMC) possess a unique cytoplasticity, regulated by transcriptional, translational and phenotypic transformation in response to a diverse range of extrinsic and intrinsic pathogenic factors. The mature, differentiated SMC phenotype is physiologically typified transcriptionally by expression of genes encoding "contractile" proteins, such as SMα-actin (ACTA2), SM-MHC (myosin-11) and SM22α (transgelin). When exposed to various pathological conditions (e.g., pro-atherogenic risk factors, hypertension), SMC undergo phenotypic modulation, a bioprocess enabling SMC to de-differentiate in immature stages or trans-differentiate into other cell phenotypes. As recent studies suggest, the process of SMC phenotypic transformation involves five distinct states characterized by different patterns of cell growth, differentiation, migration, matrix protein expression and declined contractility. These changes are mediated via the action of several transcriptional regulators, including myocardin and serum response factor. Conversely, other factors, including Kruppel-like factor 4 and nuclear factor-κB, can inhibit SMC differentiation and growth arrest, while factors such as yin yang-1, can promote SMC differentiation whilst inhibiting proliferation. This article reviews recent advances in our understanding of regulatory mechanisms governing SMC phenotypic modulation. We propose the concept that transcription factors mediating this switching are important biomarkers and potential pharmacological targets for therapeutic intervention in cardiovascular disease.

miRNA Regulatory Networks Associated with Peripheral Vascular Diseases

A growing body of evidence indicates a crucial role of miRNA regulatory function in a variety of mechanisms that contribute to the development of diseases. In our previous work, alterations in miRNA expression levels and targeted genes were shown in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from patients with lower extremity artery disease (LEAD), abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), and chronic venous disease (CVD) in comparison with healthy controls. In this paper, previously obtained miRNA expression profiles were compared between the LEAD, AAA, and CVD groups to find either similarities or differences within the studied diseases. Differentially expressed miRNAs were identified using the DESeq2 method implemented in the R programming software. Pairwise comparisons (LEAD vs. AAA, LEAD vs. CVD, and AAA vs. CVD) were performed and revealed 10, 8, and 17 differentially expressed miRNA transcripts, respectively. The functional analysis of the obtained miRNAs was conducted using the miRNet 2.0 online tool and disclosed associations with inflammation and cellular differentiation, motility, and death. The miRNet 2.0 tool was also used to identify regulatory interactions between dysregulated miRNAs and target genes in patients with LEAD, AAA, and CVD. The presented research provides new information about similarities and differences in the miRNA-dependent regulatory mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of LEAD, AAA, and CVD.

LINC01534/miR-135b-5p/PTPRT axis regulates inflammatory response in loosening total hip replacement via modulating NF-κB signaling pathway

Aseptic loosening after total hip replacement brings adverse health outcomes and increased risk for complications. The resorptive activity of inflammatory cells activated by the presence of wear-generated debris plays a critical role in debris-induced osteolysis. Previous studies indicate that the abnormally expressed LINC01534 plays a critical role in inflammatory responses. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the functional role and underlying mechanism of LINC01534 in debris-induced osteolysis. We first confirmed that LINC01534 was highly expressed in hip cartilage tissues from aseptic loosening patients. By using an IL-1β-induced inflammation model mimicking debris-induced osteolysis, we demonstrated that LINC01534 promoted IL-1β-induced inflammatory response in hip chondrocytes. Knockdown of LINC01534 inhibited the expression of inflammatory IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α in hip chondrocytes. Our results showed that LINC01534 functioned as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) by sponging miR-135b-5p in hip chondrocytes. Moreover, bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assay demonstrated that CCHC-Type Zinc Finger Nucleic Acid Binding Protein (PTPRT) is a downstream target of miR-135b-5p. Knockdown of PTPRT attenuated the IL-1β-induced inflammatory responses in hip chondrocytes. In addition, we revealed that inhibition of miR-135b-5p or overexpression of PTPRT could antagonize the effects of LINC01534 knockdown on inflammation attenuation in hip chondrocytes. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that LINC01534/miR-135b-5p/PTPRT axis regulated the NF-κB signaling pathway in hip chondrocytes. Taken together, our findings suggest that LINC01534/miR-135b-5p/PTPRT axis might be a valuable therapeutic target for the treatment of debris-induced osteolysis.

Differentially expressed mRNAs and their upstream miR-491-5p in patients with coronary atherosclerosis as well as the function of miR-491-5p in vascular smooth muscle cells

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression and are biomarkers for coronary atherosclerosis (AS). A novel miRNA-mRNA regulation network of coronary AS still needs to be disclosed. The aim of this study was to analyze potential mRNAs in coronary AS patients and the role of their upstream miR-491-5p in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). We first confirmed top ten mRNAs according to the analysis from Gene Expression Omnibus database (GSE132651) and examined the expression levels of them in the plaques and serum from AS patients. Five mRNAs (UBE2G2, SLC16A3, POLR2C, PNO1, and AMDHD2) presented significantly abnormal expression in both plaques and serum from AS patients, compared with that in the control groups. Subsequently, they were predicted to be targeted by 11 miRNAs by bioinformatics analysis. Among all the potential upstream miRNAs, only miR-491-5p was abnormally expressed in the plaques and serum from AS patients. Notably, miR-491-5p overexpression inhibited viability and migration, and significantly increased the expression of contractile markers (α-SMA, calponin, SM22α, and smoothelin) in VSMCs. While silencing miR-491-5p promoted viability and migration, and significantly suppressed the expression of α-SMA, calponin, SM22α, and smoothelin. Overall, miR-491-5p targeted UBE2G2, SLC16A3, and PNO1 and regulated the dysfunctions in VSMCs.

Pathogenic role of microRNAs in atherosclerotic ischemic stroke: Implications for diagnosis and therapy

Ischemic stroke resulting from atherosclerosis (particularly in the carotid artery) is one of the major subtypes of stroke and has a high incidence of death. Disordered lipid homeostasis, lipid deposition, local macrophage infiltration, smooth muscle cell proliferation, and plaque rupture are the main pathological processes of atherosclerotic ischemic stroke. Hepatocytes, macrophages, endothelial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells are the main cell types participating in these processes. By inhibiting the expression of the target genes in these cells, microRNAs play a key role in regulating lipid disorders and atherosclerotic ischemic stroke. In this article, we listed the microRNAs implicated in the pathology of atherosclerotic ischemic stroke and aimed to explain their pro- or antiatherosclerotic roles. Our article provides an update on the potential diagnostic use of miRNAs for detecting growing plaques and impending clinical events. Finally, we provide a perspective on the therapeutic use of local microRNA delivery and discuss the challenges for this potential therapy.

Signature transcriptome analysis of stage specific atherosclerotic plaques of patients

Background

Inflammation plays an important role in all the stages of atherosclerotic plaque development. The current study aimed at assessing the altered expression of genes functioning in inflammation within the early stage (ES) and advanced stage (AS) atherosclerotic plaques obtained from patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery and identifying biomarker panel/s that may detect the status of plaque stages using peripheral blood samples.

Methods

A section of ES and AS plaques and normal left internal mammary arteries (LIMA) were obtained from 8 patients undergoing the CABG surgery. Total RNA isolated was analyzed for mRNA and miRNA expression profile by Affymetrix arrays. A significant number of mRNAs was found to be differentially expressed in ES and AS plaque tissues relative to LIMA. The pathway analysis of differentially expressed mRNAs in the two plaque stages was also performed using DAVID Bioinformatics Database.

Results

The mRNAs were found to be involved in critical inflammatory processes such as the toll-like receptor signaling pathway and cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction. Few miRNAs targeting these mRNAs were also altered in the two plaque conditions. QRT-PCR results showed a similar expression pattern of a few of the mRNAs and miRNAs in peripheral blood of the same patients relative to healthy controls.

Conclusion

Changes in mRNA and miRNA expression associated with various inflammatory processes occur in different atherosclerotic stage plaques as well as peripheral blood. Detection of such variations in patients’ blood can be used as a possible prognostic tool to detect and/or predict the risk and stage of atherosclerosis.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12920-022-01250-8.

Structural Comparison of Sulfonamide-Based Derivatives That Can Improve Anti-Coagulation Properties of Metformin

Due to its high efficiency, good safety profile, and potential cardio-protective properties, metformin, a dimethyl biguanide, is the first-line medication in antihyperglycemic treatment for type 2 diabetic patients. The aim of our present study was to assess the effects of eight new sulfonamide-based derivatives of metformin on selected plasma parameters and vascular hemostasis, as well as on endothelial and smooth muscle cell function. The compounds with an alkyl chain (1–3), trifluoromethyl substituent (4), or acetyl group (5) significantly elevated glucose utilization in human umbilical endothelial cells (HUVECs), similarly to metformin. Our novel findings showed that metformin analogues 1–3 presented the most beneficial properties because of their greatest safety profile in the WST-1 cell viability assay, which was also proved in the further HUVEC integrity studies using RTCA DP. Compounds 1–3 did not affect either HUVEC or aortal smooth muscle cell (AoSMC) viability up to 3.0 mM. Importantly, these compounds beneficially affected some of the coagulation parameters, including factor X and antithrombin III activity. In contrast to the above-mentioned metformin analogues, derivatives 4 and 5 exerted more profound anticoagulation effects; however, they were also more cytotoxic towards HUVECs, as IC₅₀ values were 1.0–1.5 mM. In conclusion, the chemical modification of a metformin scaffold into sulfonamides possessing alkyl substituents results in the formation of novel derivatives with potential bi-directional activity including anti-hyperglycemic properties and highly desirable anti-coagulant activity.

MicroRNA‑499a (rs3746444A/G) gene variant and susceptibility to type 2 diabetes‑associated end‑stage renal disease

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a major risk factor for end-stage renal disease (ESRD). MicroRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) and their variants may be implicated in health and disease, including DN. The present study aimed to investigate the association of the miRNA-499a gene (MIR499A) A/G seed region variant (rs3746444) with DN-associated ESRD susceptibility in patients with diabetes mellitus, and to determine whether there was an association between the different genotypes and the patients' laboratory and clinical data. A case-control pilot study was conducted on 180 adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. A total of 90 patients with ESRD on regular hemodialysis were considered as the cases, and 90 age-, sex- and ethnicity-matched diabetic patients with normo-albuminuria were considered as the controls. MIR499A genotyping was performed using a TaqMan Real-Time allele discrimination assay. Results demonstrated that the MIR499A rs3746444*G variant conferred susceptibility to the development of ESRD under co-dominant [(odds ratio (95% confidence interval): 2.49 (1.41-3.89) and 2.41 (1.61-6.68) for heterozygous and homozygous comparison, respectively], dominant [2.30 (1.18-3.90)] and allelic [1.82 (1.17-2.83)] models. Different genotypes of the specified variant did not exhibit significant associations with the clinic-laboratory data of the studied patients or the circulating miR-499a plasma levels. In conclusion, results of the present study suggested that MIR499A rs3746444 may be a susceptibility variant for DN-associated ESRD in the study population. However, larger sample size studies with different ethnicities are warranted to verify these findings.

A Novel miRNA Screen Identifies miRNA-4454 as a Candidate Biomarker for Ventricular Fibrosis in Patients with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

(1) Background: Left ventricular hypertrophy, myocardial disarray and interstitial fibrosis are the hallmarks of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Access to the myocardium for diagnostic purposes is limited. Circulating biomolecules reflecting the myocardial disease processes could improve the early detection of HCM. Circulating miRNAs have been found to reflect disease processes in several cardiovascular diseases. (2) Methods: We quantified circulating miRNA molecules in the plasma of 24 HCM and 11 healthy controls using the Human v3 miRNA Expression Assay Kit Code set (Nanostring Tech., Seattle, WA, USA) and validated differentially expressed miRNAs using RT-PCR. (3) Results: In comparison to healthy controls, the levels of six miRNAs (miR-1, miR-3144, miR-4454, miR-495-3p, miR-499a-5p and miR-627-3p) were higher in the plasma of HCM patients than healthy individuals (p < 0.05). Of these, higher levels of miR-1, miR-495 and miR-4454 could be validated by real-time PCR. In addition, elevated miR-4454 levels were significantly correlated with cardiac fibrosis, detected by magnetic resonance imaging in HCM patients. (4) Conclusions: Circulating miR-1, miR-495-3p and miR-4454 levels are elevated in the plasma of HCM patients. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report showing a correlation between miR-4454 levels and cardiac fibrosis in HCM. This suggests miR-4454 as a potential biomarker for fibrosis in these patients.

MiR-499a prevents astrocytes mediated inflammation in ischemic stroke by targeting PTEN

INTRODUCTION

Ischemic stroke (IS) is a common and severe neurological disorder and is associated with high rates of mortality and morbidity. Inflammatory reaction in astrocytes is one of the important pathological factors of stroke. Improved understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms should aid better treatment of the disease. This study aimed to test our hypothesis that a miR-499a played an important role in the inflammatory response in astrocytes induced by IS targeting phosphatase and tensin homologue deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN).

METHODS

This study was comprised of two models: oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) and reoxygenation model. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and Western blot were used to examine gene expression levels, and MTT assay analysis were used to examine cell states. The relationships between miR-499a and PTEN were confirmed by luciferase reporter assay.

RESULTS

MiR-499a was robustly downregulated with OGD induced injury in astrocytes. Forced transient expression of miR-499a in OGD astrocytes nearly completely reversed the inflammatory response. Knockdown of miR-499a by its specific inhibitor in healthy astrocytes induced the inflammatory response resembling those produced by OGD. On the other hand, PTEN was markedly upregulated in OGD astrocytes, which was reciprocal to the expression of miR-499a. PTEN was experimentally validated as a direct target gene for miR-499a. Overexpression of PTEN was able to induce an inflammatory response of astrocytes. Moreover, PTEN siRNA counteracted the inflammatory response induced by OGD.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, our findings indicate miR-499a as an important factor to prevent inflammatory response and suggest miR-499a as a new molecule for the treatment of IS. The present study also demonstrated the relationship between miR-499a and PTEN, with PTEN as a downstream signaling mediator of miR-499a in the inflammatory response of astrocytes induced by IS.

Long Noncoding RNA OIP5-AS1 Contributes to the Progression of Atherosclerosis by Targeting miR-26a-5p Through the AKT/NF-κB Pathway

Atherosclerosis (AS) is a cardiovascular disease caused by multiple factors, leading to high mortality and morbidity in aged people. Some long noncoding RNAs have been reported to be associated with AS progression. However, the roles of OIP5-AS1 in AS development are still little known. In this study, the levels of OIP5-AS1 and miR-26a-5p in oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-treated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were evaluated by Cell Counting Kit-8 assay and flow cytometric analysis, respectively. The protein levels of proliferating cell nuclear antigen, B-cell lymphoma-2, cleaved caspase 3, inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and IL-1β), protein kinase B (AKT), p-AKT, p65, p-p65, IκBα, and p-IκBα were detected by Western blot analysis. The targeting relationship between OIP5-AS1 and miR-26a-5p was verified by dual-luciferase reporter assay, RNA immunoprecipitation assay, and RNA pull-down assay. As a result, the expression of OIP5-AS1 was upregulated and miR-26a-5p was downregulated in ox-LDL-treated HUVECs. MiR-26a-5p was identified as a direct target of OIP5-AS1. OIP5-AS1 knockdown reversed the inhibitory effect on cell proliferation and the promotional effects on apoptosis and inflammation induced by ox-LDL treatment in HUVECs. Interestingly, the effects caused by OIP5-AS1 knockdown were further attenuated by miR-26a-5p inhibition. Furthermore, OIP5-AS1 knockdown blocked the AKT/NF-κB pathway by regulating miR-26a-5p expression. In conclusion, OIP5-AS1 knockdown promoted cell proliferation and suppressed apoptosis and inflammatory response in ox-LDL-treated HUVECs by targeting miR-26a-5p through blocking the AKT/NF-κB pathway, indicating a promising strategy for AS treatment.

miR-194-Loaded Gelatin Nanospheres Target MEF2C to Suppress Muscle Atrophy in a Mechanical Unloading Model

Muscle atrophy usually occurs under mechanical unloading, which increases the risk of injury to reduce the functionality of the moving system, while there is still no effective therapy until now. It was found that miR-194 was significantly downregulated in a muscle atrophy model, and its target protein was the myocyte enhancer factor 2C (MEF2C). miR-194 could promote muscle differentiation and also inhibit ubiquitin ligases, thus miR-194 could be used as a nucleic acid drug to treat muscle atrophy, whereas miRNA was unstable in vivo, limiting its application as a therapeutic drug. A gelatin nanosphere (GN) delivery system was applied for the first time to load exogenous miRNA here. Exogenous miR-194 was loaded in GNs and injected into the muscle atrophy model. It demonstrated that the muscle fiber cross-sectional area, in situ muscle contractile properties, and myogenic markers were increased significantly after treatment. It proposed miR-194 loaded in GNs as an effective treatment for muscle atrophy by promoting muscle differentiation and inhibiting ubiquitin ligase activity. Moreover, the developed miRNA delivery system, taking advantage of its tunable composition, degradation rate, and capacity to load various drug molecules with high dosage, is considered a promising platform to achieve precise treatment of muscle atrophy-related diseases.

Morphological changes and functional circRNAs screening of rabbit skeletal muscle development

BACKGROUND

The temporal expression pattern of circular RNAs (circRNAs) across developmental stages is essential for skeletal muscle growth and functional analysis. However, there are few analyses on the potential functions of circRNAs in rabbit skeletal muscle development.

RESULTS

Initially, the paraffin sections showed extremely significant differences in the diameter, number, area and density of skeletal muscle fibers of the fetus, child, adult rabbit hind legs (P < 0.01). Then, RNA-seq libraries of these three stages were constructed. A total of 481 differentially expressed circRNAs (DE-circRNAs) and 5,658 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified. Subsequently, DE-circRNAs, whose host genes were DEGs or non-DEGs, were analyzed by GO respectively. In the fetus vs. child group, up-regulated DE-circRNAs (whose host genes were DEGs) were related to muscle fiber structure, and down-regulated ones were related to mitosis. The up-regulated DE-circRNAs (whose host genes were non-DEGs) were involved in enzyme activity, methylation and glycosylation, and the down-regulated ones were involved in mitosis and catabolism. In the fetus vs. adult group, the up-regulated DE-circRNAs (whose host genes were DEGs) were related to skeletal muscle basic structure, and the down-regulated ones were also associated with cell proliferation. But the up-regulated DE-circRNAs (whose host genes were non-DEGs) were connected with regulation of histone ubiquitination, chromatin and organelles. The down-regulated DE-circRNAs were connected with the catabolism processes. In addition, novel_circ_0022663 and novel_circ_0005489, which might have coding potential, and novel_circ_0004210 and novel_circ_0001669, which might have miRNA sponge capability, were screened out.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, hind leg muscles of fetus, child and adult rabbits were collected for paraffin section and RNA-seq to observe the structural changes of skeletal muscle and obtain circRNA expression profiles at different stages. These data provided a catalog of circRNAs related to muscle development in New Zealand rabbits, allowing us to better understand the functional transitions in mammalian muscle development.

Association between miR-146a and Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha (TNF-α) in Stable Coronary Artery Disease

Background and Objectives: Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) is proatherogenic and associated with the risk of acute ischemic events, although the mechanisms that regulate TNF-α expression in stable coronary artery disease (SCAD) are not fully understood. We investigated whether metabolic, inflammatory, and epigenetic (microRNA (miRNA)) markers are associated with TNF-α expression in SCAD. Materials and Methods: Patients with SCAD were prospectively recruited and their metabolic and inflammatory profiles were assessed. TNF-α levels were assessed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The relative expression of six circulating miRNAs associated with the regulation of inflammation and/or atherosclerosis was determined. Results: Of the 24 included patients with the mean age of 65 (9) years, 88% were male, and 54% were diabetic. The TNF-α levels were (median (interquartile range)) 1.0 (0.7–1.1) pg/mL. The percentage of glycosylated hemoglobin (r = 0.418, p = 0.042), serum triglyceride levels (r = 0.429, p = 0.037), and C-reactive protein levels (r = 0.407, p = 0.048) were positively correlated with TNF-α levels. Of the candidate miRNAs, miR-146a expression levels were negatively correlated with TNF-α levels (as indicated by r = 0.500, p = 0.035 for correlation between delta cycle threshold (ΔC_t) miR-146a and TNF-α levels). In multivariate analysis, serum triglyceride levels and miR-146a expression levels were independently associated with TNF-α levels. miR-146 expression levels were not associated with metabolic or other inflammatory parameters and were negatively correlated with the number of coronary vessels with obstructive disease (as indicated by r = 0.556, p = 0.017 for correlation between ΔC_t miR-146a and number of diseased vessels). Conclusions: miR-146a expression levels were negatively correlated with TNF-α levels in patients with SCAD, irrespective of other metabolic or inflammatory markers, and with the severity of coronary artery disease. The results add to the knowledge on the role of miR-146a in TNF-α-based inflammation in SCAD and support future research on the potential therapeutic use of miR-146a in such a clinical scenario.

microRNAs involved in psoriasis and cardiovascular diseases

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease involving the skin. Both genetic and environmental factors play a pathogenic role in psoriasis and contribute to the severity of the disease. Psoriasis, in fact, has been associated with different comorbidities such as diabetes, metabolic syndrome, gastrointestinal or kidney diseases, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and cerebrovascular diseases (CeVD). Indeed, life expectancy in severe psoriasis is reduced by up to 5 years due to CVD and CeVD. Moreover, patients with severe psoriasis have a higher prevalence of traditional cardiovascular (CV) risk factors, including dyslipidemia, diabetes, smoking, and hypertension. Further, systemic inflammation is associated with oxidative stress increase and induces endothelial damage and atherosclerosis progression. Different miRNA have been already described in psoriasis, both in the skin tissues and in the blood flow, to play a role in the progression of disease. In this review, we will summarize and discuss the most important miRNAs that play a role in psoriasis and are also linked to CVD.

LncRNA RNCR3 promotes endothelial cell proliferation and inflammatory cytokine secretion via regulating miR-185-5p/cyclin D2 axis

Endothelial cell is one critical structure of blood vessels, and irregular migration and proliferation of endothelial cell might cause progression of several vascular diseases such as atherosclerosis and restenosis. We showed that TNF-α, PDGF-bb, and IL-1β promote RNCR3 expression in a dose-dependent manner inhuman endothelial cell. RNCR3 level is higher in serum of atherosclerosis patients compared with those in control volunteers. Overexpression of RNCR3 promotes cell proliferation and three inflammatory cytokine secretion including IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α in endothelial cell. We illustrated that overexpression of RNCR3 inhibits miR-185-5p expression in endothelial cell. Furthermore, we indicated that miR-185-5p level is lower in the serum of patients with atherosclerosis compared with those in control volunteers. There is a negative correlation between miR-185-5p and RNCR3 expression in serum of patients with atherosclerosis. Using Targetscan, it predicted that miR-185-5p may bind to cyclin D2 and miR-185-5p is one potential target of miR-185-5p. Luciferase reporter data indicated that miR-185-5p suppresses luciferase value of wild-type cyclin D2 while it has no influence of cyclin D2 mutant. Overexpression of RNCR3 enhances cyclin D2 expression in endothelial cell. Moreover, RNCR3 induces cell growth and enhances inflammatory cytokine secretion through modulating cyclin D2 expression in endothelial cell. These results suggested that RNCR3 may serve as one new target for the treatment of atherosclerosis.

CircRNA RSF1 regulated ox-LDL induced vascular endothelial cells proliferation, apoptosis and inflammation through modulating miR-135b-5p/HDAC1 axis in atherosclerosis

Background

Atherosclerosis (AS) is the most common type in cardiovascular disease. Due to its complex pathogenesis, the exact etiology of AS is unclear. circRNA has been shown to play an essential role in most diseases. However, the underlying mechanism of circRNA in AS has been not understood clearly.

Methods

Quantitative Real-Time PCR assay was used to detect the expression of circRSF1, miR-135b-5p and histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1). Western blot was applied to the measure of protein expression of HDAC1, B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), BCL2-associated X (Bax), cleaved-caspase-3, vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM1), intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM1) and E-selectin. MTT assay and flow cytometry were used to detect cell proliferation and apoptosis, respectively. Dual luciferase reporter assay and RIP assay was used to determine the relationship among circRSF1, miR-135b-5p and HDAC1. Besides, an ELISA assay was performed to measure the levels of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and IL-8.

Results

In this study, ox-LDL inhibited circRSF1 and HDAC1 expression while upregulated miR-135b-5p expression in Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Importantly, ox-LDL could inhibit HUVECs growth. Moreover, promotion of circRSF1 or inhibition of miR-135b-5p induced cell proliferation while inhibited apoptosis and inflammation of ox-LDL-treated HUVECs, which was reversed by upregulating miR-135b-5p or downregulating HDCA1 in ox-LDL-treated HUVECs. More than that, we verified that circRSF1 directly targeted miR-135b-5p and HDAC1 was a target mRNA of miR-135b-5p in HUVECs.

Conclusion

CircRSF1 regulated ox-LDL-induced vascular endothelial cell proliferation, apoptosis and inflammation through modulating miR-135b-5p/HDAC1 axis in AS, providing new perspectives and methods for the treatment and diagnosis of AS.

Identification of Differently Expressed mRNAs in Atherosclerosis Reveals CDK6 Is Regulated by circHIPK3/miR-637 Axis and Promotes Cell Growth in Human Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells

Atherosclerosis is the leading cause of heart disease and stroke, and one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. The phenotypic transformation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) plays an important role in the pathological process of atherosclerosis. The present study aimed to identify differently expressed mRNAs in atherosclerosis by analyzing GSE6088 database. Our results revealed there were totally 467 increased and 490 decreased differential expressed genes (DEGs) in atherosclerosis. Bioinformatics analysis demonstrated that the DEGs substantially existed in pathways, including Glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism, Tyrosine metabolism, Tryptophan metabolism, Beta-Alanine metabolism, Fatty acid biosynthesis and Starch and sucrose metabolism. Next, we constructed a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network to identify hub genes in atherosclerosis. Also, we identified CDK6 as a key regulator of atherosclerosis. In this study, we found that CDK6 knockdown suppressed HASMC and HUASMC cell proliferation. Circular RNA (CircRNA) is a non-coding RNA which is reported to have an unusual influence on tumorigenesis process and other aspects in the last few years. Previous studies showed circRNAs could act as miRNAs sponging in multiple biological processes. Bioinformatics prediction and luciferase analysis showed that CDK6 were targeted and regulated by circHIPK3/miR-637. Moreover, silencing circHIPK3 could also significantly induce the arrest and apoptosis of cell cycle. In conclusion, this study discovered the important regulatory role of circHIPK3 in the proliferation and apoptosis of VSMCs by influencing the miR-637/CDK6 axis.

Micro-RNA-183-5p acts as a potential diagnostic biomarker for atherosclerosis and regulates the growth of vascular smooth muscle cell

BACKGROUND

Atherosclerosis (AS) is a multifactorial chronic disease, and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) play important roles in the pathology of AS. Micro-RNAs regulate multiple cellular biological processes. This study aimed to investigate the clinical value of miR-183-5p in AS patients and further explored the effects of miR-183-5p on the proliferation and migration of VSMCs.

METHODS

Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to test the level of miR-183-5p. The diagnostic value of miR-183-5p for AS patients was assessed by a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. The proliferation and migration of VSMCs were determined via the CCK-8 and Transwell assay.

RESULTS

MiR-183-5p was highly expressed in AS patients compared with the healthy group. Serum miR-183-5p expression was positively associated with carotid intima-media thickness and C-reactive protein in AS patients. The ROC analysis suggested that miR-183-5p had the quality to be used as a biomarker with high specificity and sensitivity for AS detection. Overexpression of miR-183-5p promoted the proliferation and migration of VSMCs.

CONCLUSION

MiR-183-5p is highly expressed in AS patients, which promotes the proliferation and migration of VSMCs. MiR-183-5p may be a key molecular in the diagnosis and treatment of AS in the future.

Therapeutic Value of miRNAs in Coronary Artery Disease

Atherosclerotic ischemic coronary artery disease (CAD) is a significant community health challenge and the principal cause of morbidity and mortality in both developed and developing countries for all ethnic groups. The progressive chronic coronary atherosclerosis is the main underlying cause of CAD. Although enormous progress occurred in the last three decades in the management of cardiovascular diseases, the prevalence of CAD continues to increase worldwide, indicating the need for discovery of deeper molecular insights of CAD mechanisms, biomarkers, and innovative therapeutic targets. Recently, several research groups established that microRNAs essentially regulate various cardiovascular development and functions, and a deregulated cardiac enriched microRNA profile plays a vital role in the pathogenesis of CAD and its biological aging. Numerous studies established that over- or downregulation of a single miRNA gene by ago-miRNA or anti-miRNA is enough to modify the CAD disease process, significantly prevent age-dependent cardiac cell death, and markedly improve cardiac function. In the light of more recent experimental and clinical evidences, we briefly reviewed and discussed the involvement of miRNAs in CAD and their possible diagnostic/therapeutic values. Moreover, we also focused on the role of miRNAs in the initiation and progression of the atherosclerosis plaque as the strongest risk factor for CAD.

microRNA-491-5p protects against atherosclerosis by targeting matrix metallopeptidase-9

Abnormal proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are critical processes that are involved in atherosclerosis. The aim of this study was to explore the role of microRNA-491-5p (miR-491-5p) in the progression of atherosclerosis by regulating the growth and migration of VSMCs. In this study, we showed that the expression of miR-491-5p was downregulated in the atherosclerotic plaque tissues and plasma samples of the patients with atherosclerosis. The bioinformatic analysis and dual-luciferase reporter assay identified that matrix metallopeptidase-9 (MMP-9) was a target gene of miR-491-5p. The results showed a significant upregulation of MMP-9 in the atherosclerotic plaque tissues and plasma samples. Subsequently, the results also showed that downregulation of miR-491-5p significantly promoted the proliferation and migration of VSMCs and inhibited the apoptosis in VSMCs. Furthermore, we detected the effects of miR-491-5p mimic on the growth and migration of VSMCs, and the results illustrated that miR-491-5p mimic could inhibit the proliferation and migration of VSMCs and promote the apoptosis of VSMCs. Notably, MMP-9 plasmid could reverse all the effects of miR-491-5p mimic on VSMCs. Collectively, our study provides the first evidence that miR-491-5p inhibited the growth and migration of VSMCs by targeting MMP-9, which might provide new biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for atherosclerosis treatment.

MicroRNAs in Skeletal Muscle and Hints on Their Potential Role in Muscle Wasting During Cancer Cachexia

Cancer-associated cachexia is a heterogeneous, multifactorial syndrome characterized by systemic inflammation, unintentional weight loss, and profound alteration in body composition. The main feature of cancer cachexia is represented by the loss of skeletal muscle tissue, which may or may not be accompanied by significant adipose tissue wasting. Such phenotypic alteration occurs as the result of concomitant increased myofibril breakdown and reduced muscle protein synthesis, actively contributing to fatigue, worsening of quality of life, and refractoriness to chemotherapy. According to the classical view, this condition is primarily triggered by interactions between specific tumor-induced pro-inflammatory cytokines and their cognate receptors expressed on the myocyte membrane. This causes a shift in gene expression of muscle cells, eventually leading to a pronounced catabolic condition and cell death. More recent studies, however, have shown the involvement of regulatory non-coding RNAs in the outbreak of cancer cachexia. In particular, the role exerted by microRNAs is being widely addressed, and several mechanistic studies are in progress. In this review, we discuss the most recent findings concerning the role of microRNAs in triggering or exacerbating muscle wasting in cancer cachexia, while mentioning about possible roles played by long non-coding RNAs and ADAR-mediated miRNA modifications.

Regulatory Roles of Related Long Non-coding RNAs in the Process of Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis (AS) is the main cause of coronary heart disease, cerebral infarction, and peripheral vascular disease, which comprise serious hazards to human health. Atherosclerosis is characterized by the deposition of lipids on the interior walls of blood vessels, causing an inflammatory response of immune cells, endothelial cells, and smooth muscle cells, and a proliferation cascade reaction. Despite years of research, the underlying pathogenesis of AS is not fully defined. Recent advances in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which non-coding RNA influences the initiation and progression of AS have shown that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) regulate important stages in the atherosclerotic process. In this review, we summarize current knowledge of lncRNAs, which influence the development of AS. We review the regulatory processes of lncRNAs on core stages of atherosclerotic progression, including lipid metabolism, inflammation, vascular cell proliferation, apoptosis, adhesion and migration, and angiogenesis. A growing body of evidence suggests that lncRNAs have great potential as new therapeutic targets for the treatment of vascular diseases.

miR-141-3p inhibits vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration via regulating Keap1/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway

miR-141-3p is proven to play a prominent role in various inflammation-related diseases. Nonetheless, little is known concerning the function of miR-141-3p in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) dysfunction and the underlying mechanism. ApoE knockdown (ApoE^-/- ) C57BL/6 mice and human VSMCs were employed to establish atherosclerosis (AS) animal model and cell model, respectively. The expressions of miR-141-3p and Keap1 mRNA were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was conducted to determine inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-β and TNF-α. Cell proliferation, migration and apoptosis were analyzed by BrdU assay, Transwell assay and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay, respectively. Luciferase reporter assay was carried out to determine the regulatory relationship between miR-141-3p and Keap1. Additionally, Western blot was used to detect the function of miR-141-3p on the expression levels of Keap1, Nrf2 and HO-1 in VSMCs. miR-141-3p was remarkably down-regulated in both AS animal model and cell model while the expression of Keap1 was elevated. Proliferation and migration of VSMCs were suppressed after miR-141-3p mimics transfection and cell apoptosis was promoted. miR-141-3p also inhibited the expressions of IL-6, IL-β, TNF-α and Keap1 but promoted the expressions of Nrf2 and HO-1. Moreover, the binding site between miR-141-3p and the 3'UTR of Keap1 was confirmed. miR-141-3p is down-regulated during AS, and it can alleviate VSMCs' dysfunction by targeting the Keap1/Nrf2/HO-1 axis.

Effect of Lentivirus-Mediated miR-499a-3p on Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells

Objective

To explore the possible role of miR-499a-3p in the function of primary human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and the expression of ADAM10 in primary HUVEC.

Method

miR-499a-3p was first transfected into primary HUVECs via lentivirus vector. The viability, proliferation, and migration of stable transfected primary HUVEC were then determined by flow cytometry, CCK8 assays, scratch tests, and Transwell tests. The transcription of miR-499a-3p and ADAM10 was examined by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and the expression of ADAM10 was examined by Western blot (WB).

Results

After transfection, miR-499a-3p transcription was significantly increased (P < 0.01), compared to the blank and nonspecific control (NC) groups, while both ADAM10 transcription and expression were significantly decreased (P < 0.05). In contrast, in the inhibitors group, miR-499a-3p transcription was significantly reduced (P < 0.05) whereas both ADAM10 transcription and expression were significantly increased (P < 0.05). The viability, proliferation, and migration of primary HUVECs were significantly impaired (P < 0.05) by the transfection of miR-499a-3p but enhanced by miR-499a-3p inhibitors (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Upregulation of miR-499a-3p transcription will inhibit the expression of ADAM10 in HUVECs; cell migration and proliferation, however, promote apoptosis. And reverse effects were established by downregulation of miR-499a-3p transcription. All these effects may be achieved by regulating the transcription and expression of ADAM10. These results combined suggested that miR-499a-3p may affect the proliferation, migration, and apoptosis of endothelial cells and regulate AS by regulating ADAM10. miR-499a-3p may become a candidate biomarker for the diagnosis of unstable angina pectoris (UA).

Downregulation of miR-637 promotes vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration via regulation of insulin-like growth factor-2

Background

Dysregulation of the proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) is a crucial cause of atherosclerosis. MiR-637 exerts an antiproliferative effect on multiple human cells. Its impact on atherosclerosis remains largely unexplored.

Methods

Real-time PCR was used to determine miR-637 expression in samples from atherosclerosis patients and animal models. Its expression in VSMC dysfunction models (induced by ox-LDL) was also measured. The proliferation and migration of VSMCs were respectively tested using CCK-8 and Transwell assays, and apoptosis was measured using flow cytometry. The Targetscan database was used to predict the target genes of miR-637. Interaction between miR-637 and the potential target gene was validated via real-time PCR, western blotting and a luciferase reporter assay.

Results

MiR-637 expression was significantly lower in atherosclerosis patient and animal model samples. It also decreased in a dose- and time-dependent manner in animal models with ox-LDL-induced atherosclerosis. Transfection with miR-637 mimics suppressed the proliferation and migration of VSMCs while promoting apoptosis, while transfection with miR-637 inhibitors had the opposite effects. We also validated that insulin-like growth factor-2 (IGF-2), a crucial factor in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, serves as a target gene for miR-637.

Conclusion

MiR-637 targeting IGF-2 contributes to atherosclerosis inhibition and could be a potential target for this disease.

microRNA-204-5p Participates in Atherosclerosis Via Targeting MMP-9

The aim of the present study was to investigate the role and mechanism of microRNA-204-5p (miR-204-5p) in atherosclerosis (AS)-related abnormal human vascular smooth muscle cells (hVSMCs) function. Firstly, we analyzed the expression of miR-204-5p and found that the miR-204-5p expression level was clearly downregulated in atherosclerotic plaque tissues and blood samples compared to the normal controls. Then, matrix metallopeptidase-9 (MMP-9) was predicted to be the potential target of miR-204-5p by TargetScan and this prediction was confirmed by luciferase assays. Besides, we observed that miR-204-5p could negatively regulate the expression of MMP-9 in hVSMCs. Subsequently, Thiazolyl Blue Tetrazolium Bromide (MTT) assay, transwell assay and flow cytometry were performed to detect the proliferation, migration and apoptosis of hVSMCs. Down-expression of miR-204-5p led to the promotion of proliferation and migration accompanied with the suppression of apoptosis in hVSMCs, and these effects were reversed by MMP-9-siRNA. In addition, overexpressed miR-204-5p could inhibit hVSMC proliferation and migration and promote the apoptosis of hVSMCs. However, the effects were also abrogated by overexpressed MMP-9. Together, our findings showed that miR-204-5p plays an important role in the growth and migration of hVSMCs by targeting MMP-9, which might be a novel biomarker and promising therapeutic target for AS.

Serum exosomal hsa-miR-135b-5p serves as a potential diagnostic biomarker in steroid-induced osteonecrosis of femoral head

Accumulating studies have demonstrated serum exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) represent novel biomarkers for various diseases. In this study, we aimed to explore the feasibility of using serum exosomal miRNAs as novel serological biomarkers for steroid-induced osteonecrosis of femoral head (SONFH). We identified the characters of exosomes which were obtained from fresh serum of 5 systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients without SONFH, 5 SLE patients with SONFH (SLE-SONFH) and 5 healthy ones. Comprehensive exosomal miRNA sequencing was performed to profile the differentially expressed miRNAs in the three groups. We then validated the expression levels of selected miRNAs by qRT-PCR. Furthermore, KEGG pathway, GO annotation, protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, module analysis and miRNAs-mRNAs interaction network were built to analyze the potential targets and mechanism. Sequencing data conveyed that hsa-miR-135b-5p, hsa-miR-150-5p, hsa-miR-509-3-5p, hsa-miR-514a-3p and hsa-miR-708-5p were significantly differentially expressed in the three groups. The results of qRT-PCR for the first time confirmed that the expression of hsa-miR-135b-5p was strikingly up-regulated in SLE-SONFH group which were consistent with miRNA sequencing results. In addition, bioinformatics analysis indicated that the enriched functions and pathways of the most differentially expressed miRNAs including Wnt, MAPK as well as Hippo signaling pathway. The top five hub genes (FGF2, PTEN, HACE1, VAMP2, and CBL) were part of module of the PPI network, which consisted of 713 nodes and 2191 edges. In conclusion, this study provides a novel and fundamental serum exosomal miRNAs profile of SONFH and hsa-miR-135b-5p may be identified as a unique diagnostic biomarker for SONFH.

Diagnostic and theranostic microRNAs in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a group of small single strand and noncoding RNAs that regulate several physiological and molecular signalling pathways. Alterations of miRNA expression profiles may be involved with pathophysiological processes underlying the development of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases, including changes in the functions of the endothelial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells, such as cell proliferation, migration and inflammation, which are involved in angiogenesis, macrophage function and foam cell formation. Thus, miRNAs can be considered to have a crucial role in the progression, modulation and regulation of every stage of atherosclerosis. Such potential biomarkers will enable us to predict therapeutic response and prognosis of cardiovascular diseases and adopt effective preclinical and clinical treatment strategies. In the present review article, the current data regarding the role of miRNAs in atherosclerosis were summarized and the potential miRNAs as prognostic, diagnostic and theranostic biomarkers in preclinical and clinical studies were further discussed. The highlights of this review are expected to present opportunities for future research of clinical therapeutic approaches in vascular diseases resulting from atherosclerosis with an emphasis on miRNAs.

Exposure to blue light stimulates the proangiogenic capability of exosomes derived from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells

Background

The therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) may be attributed partly to the secreted paracrine factors, which comprise exosomes. Exosomes are small, saucer-shaped vesicles containing miRNAs, mRNAs, and proteins. Exosomes derived from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) have been reported to promote angiogenesis. However, the efficacy of exosome-based therapies is still limited both in vitro and in vivo. The present study aimed to develop a new optical manipulation approach to stimulate the proangiogenic potential of exosomes and characterize its mechanism underlying tissue regeneration.

Methods

We used blue (455 nm) and red (638 nm) monochromatic light exposure to investigate the processing of stimuli. Exosomes were prepared by QIAGEN exoEasy Maxi kit and confirmed to be present by transmission electron microscopy and immunoblotting analyses. The proangiogenic activity of blue light-treated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), when co-cultured with hUC-MSCs, was assessed by EdU (5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine) incorporation, wound closure, and endothelial tube formation assays. The in vivo angiogenic activity of blue light-treated MSC-derived exosomes (MSC-Exs) was evaluated using both murine matrigel plug and skin wound models.

Results

We found that 455-nm blue light is effective for promoting proliferation, migration, and tube formation of HUVECs co-cultured with MSCs. Furthermore, MSC-Exs stimulated in vivo angiogenesis and their proangiogenic potential were enhanced significantly upon blue light illumination. Finally, activation of the endothelial cells in response to stimulation by blue light-treated exosomes was demonstrated by upregulation of two miRNAs, miR-135b-5p, and miR-499a-3p.

Conclusions

Blue (455 nm) light illumination improved the therapeutic effects of hUC-MSC exosomes by enhancing their proangiogenic ability in vitro and in vivo with the upregulation of the following two miRNAs: miR-135b-5p and miR-499a-3p.

Graphical abstract

MicroRNA‑379‑5p suppresses renal fibrosis by regulating the LIN28/let‑7 axis in diabetic nephropathy

MicroRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) play an important role in pathological processes in diabetic nephropathy (DN). This study aimed to explore whether miR‑379‑5p is associated with renal fibrosis in DN and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. In vitro experiments indicated that miR‑379‑5p expression was downregulated by high glucose (HG) treatment in mouse mesangial cells (MMCs). Transfection with miR‑379‑5p mimics suppressed the proliferation and the accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, which were promoted by HG treatment. LIN28B was proven to be a direct target of miR‑379‑5p by luciferase report assay. In addition, the loss of expression of LIN28B, as well as the decrease in cell proliferation and in the accumulation of ECM components, which were induced by the knockdown of LIN28B, were attenuated in the MMCs following transfection with miR‑379‑5p inhibitors. Furthermore, type 2 diabetic db/db mice were used to examine the efficiency of miR‑379‑5p agomir in the alleviation of renal fibrosis. Consistent with the results of the in vitro experiments, miR‑379‑5p agomir suppressed mesangial cell proliferation and the accumulation of ECM components by regulating the LIN28B/let‑7 pathway. Taken together, the findings of this study suggest that miR‑379‑5p is highly involved in renal fibrosis in DN, and that it may be a potential effective therapeutic target for DN.

Evidences from a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Unveil the Role of MiRNA Polymorphisms in the Predisposition to Female Neoplasms

Breast (BCa) and gynecological (GCa) cancers constitute a group of female neoplasms that has a worldwide significant contribution to cancer morbidity and mortality. Evidence suggests that polymorphisms influencing miRNA function can provide useful information towards predicting the risk of female neoplasms. Inconsistent findings in the literature should be detected and resolved to facilitate the genetic screening of miRNA polymorphisms, even during childhood or adolescence, and their use as predictors of future malignancies. This study represents a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis of the association between miRNA polymorphisms and the risk of female neoplasms. Meta-analysis was performed by pooling odds-ratios (ORs) and generalized ORs while using a random-effects model for 15 miRNA polymorphisms. The results suggest that miR-146a rs2910164 is implicated in the susceptibility to GCa. Moreover, miR-196a2 rs11614913-T had a moderate protective effect against female neoplasms, especially GCa, in Asians but not in Caucasians. MiR-27a rs895819-G might pose a protective effect against BCa among Caucasians. MiR-499 rs3746444-C may slightly increase the risk of female neoplasms, especially BCa. MiR-124 rs531564-G may be associated with a lower risk of female neoplasms. The current evidences do not support the association of the remaining polymorphisms and the risk of female neoplasms.

Nongenetic optical modulation of neural stem cell proliferation and neuronal/glial differentiation

Photostimulation has been widely used in neuromodulation. However, existing optogenetics techniques require genetic alternation of the targeted cell or tissue. Here, we report that neural stem cells (NSCs) constitutionally express blue/red light-sensitive photoreceptors. The proliferation and regulation of NSCs to neuronal or glial cells are wavelength-specific. Our results showed a 4.3-fold increase in proliferation and 2.7-fold increase in astrocyte differentiation for cells under low-power blue monochromatic light exposure (455 nm, 300 μW/cm²). The melanopsin (Opn4)/transient receptor potential channel 6 (TRPC6) non-visual opsin serves as a key photoreceptor response to blue light irradiation. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis coupled with mass spectrometry further highlighted the Jun activation domain-binding protein 1 (Jab1) as a novel and specific modulator in phototransduction pathways induced by blue light exposure. Quiescent adult NSCs reside in specific regions of the mammalian brain. Therefore, we showed that melanopsin/TRPC6 expressed in these regions and blue light stimulation through optical fibers could directly stimulate the NSCs in vivo. Upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) converted deep-penetrating near-infrared (NIR) light into specific wavelengths of visible light. Accordingly, we demonstrated that UCNP-mediated NIR light could be used to modulate in vivo NSC differentiation in a less invasive manner. In the future, this light-triggered system of NSCs will enable nongenetic and noninvasive neuromodulation with therapeutic potential for central nervous system diseases.

Downregulation of microRNA-135b promotes atherosclerotic plaque stabilization in atherosclerotic mice by upregulating erythropoietin receptor

Atherosclerotic plaque rupture is an important pathophysiologic mechanism of acute coronary syndrome. Emerging microRNAs (miRNAs) have been implicated in the atherosclerotic plaque formation and macrophage autophagy during the development of atherosclerosis (AS). Hence, this study was conducted to explore the role microRNA-135b (miR-135b) in macrophages and atherosclerotic plaque in mouse models of AS. The expression of miR-135b and erythropoietin receptor (EPOR) was altered in atherosclerotic mice to clarify their effect on inflammation, cell activities of aortic tissues, and macrophage autophagy. The obtained findings unraveled that miR-135b was upregulated and EPOR was downregulated in atherosclerotic mice. Upregulated miR-135b expression promoted cell apoptosis and inflammation, along with inhibited cell proliferation and decreased macrophage autophagy. Notably, miR-135 was validated to target EPOR and activate the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Moreover, miR-135b inhibition attenuated inflammation, atherosclerotic plaque development, and promoted macrophage autophagy. Besides, the effect of miR-135b inhibition was reversed in response to EPOR silencing. Taken conjointly, the study revealed that inhibition of miR-135b promoted macrophage autophagy and atherosclerotic plaque stabilization in atherosclerotic mice by inactivating the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and upregulating EPOR.

Exosomal microRNA profiling in early and late onset preeclamptic pregnant women reflects pathophysiology

Background: Preeclampsia is the leading cause of maternal and fetal mortality due to the inability to diagnose and treat the disorder early in pregnancy. This is attributed to the complex pathophysiology and unknown etiology of the disorder, which is modulated by several known and unknown factors. Exosomes have recently been implicated as possible mediators of the pathogenesis of preeclampsia, with, however, no evidence linking these nanovesicles to the pathophysiology of preeclampsia and its subtypes. Methods: To better understand the pathophysiological role of exosomes in preeclampsia, we have analyzed the exosomal microRNA in early and late onset preeclamptic women in comparison to their gestationally matched normotensive controls using Digital Direct Detection (NanoString Technologies). Results: For the first time, distinct exosomal microRNA signatures in early and late onset preeclampsia have been identified. Moreover, these signatures indicate that exosomes are involved in key pathological features associated with preeclampsia and differentiate between the subtypes. Conclusion: This study forms the basis for the diagnostic and functional validation of the identified signatures as biomarkers of preeclampsia and its subtypes.

A novel lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA triple network identifies lncRNA TWF1 as an important regulator of miRNA and gene expression in coronary artery disease

Background

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in numerous physiological functions. Yet, their mechanisms in coronary artery disease (CAD) are not well understood.

Methods

The expression profile of genes associated to CAD was reannotated into the lncRNA-mRNA biphasic profile. The target microRNA data were used to design a global CAD triple network. Thereafter, we conducted a functional enrichment analysis and clustering using the triple network from the level of topology analyses. The expression of four non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) was measured by qRT-PCR and the risk of CAD was calculated by nomogram. The prognostic value of three ncRNAs was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results

A CAD lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network was constructed which included 15 mRNAs, 3 miRNAs, 19 edges and one lncRNA. Nomogram showed that four ncRNAs were the risk of CAD. After RT-PCR validation in four ncRNAs between CAD and non-CAD samples, only three ncRNAs had significant meaning for further analysis. ROC curve showed that TWF1 presented an area under curve (AUC) of 0.862, the AUC of hsa -miR-142-3p was 0.856 and hsa -miR126-5p was 0.822. After the pairwise comparison, we found that TWF1 had significant statistical significance (P _TWF1-142 < 0.05 and P _TWF1-126 < 0.01). The results of functional enrichment analysis of interacting gene and microRNA showed that the shared lncRNA TWF1 may be a new factor for CAD.

Conclusions

This investigation on the regulatory networks of lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA in CAD suggests that a novel lncRNA, lncRNA TWF1 is a risk factor for CAD, and expands our understanding into the mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of CAD.

The MicroRNA-551a/MEF2C Axis Regulates the Survival and Sphere Formation of Cancer Cells in Response to 5-Fluorouracil

microRNAs regulate a diverse spectrum of cancer biology, including tumorigenesis, metastasis, stemness, and drug resistance. To investigate miRNA-mediated regulation of drug resistance, we characterized the resistant cell lines to 5-fluorouracil by inducing stable expression of miRNAs using lenti-miRNA library. Here, we demonstrate miR-551a as a novel factor regulating cell survival after 5-FU treatment. miR-551a-expressing cells (Hep3B-lenti-miR-551a) were resistant to 5-FU-induced cell death, and after 5-FU treatment, and showed significant increases in cell viability, cell survival, and sphere formation. It was further shown that myocyte-specific factor 2C is the direct target of miR-551a. Our results suggest that miR-551a plays a novel function in regulating 5-FU-induced cell death, and targeting miR-551a might be helpful to sensitize cells to anti-cancer drugs.

miRNA Polymorphisms and Risk of Cardio-Cerebrovascular Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Recently extensive focus has been concentrated on the role of miRNAs in the initiation and progression of cardio-cerebrovascular diseases (CCDs) which constitute a range of conditions including cardiovascular diseases (CVDs, especially coronary artery disease (CAD)), congenital heart disease (CHD) and cerebrovascular diseases (CBVDs, especially the ischemic stroke (IS)). An increasing number of studies are evaluating the association between different miRNA polymorphisms and risk of CCDs, but results have been inconclusive. This study represents a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis of the association between miRNA polymorphisms and risk of CCDs. PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science were queried to identify eligible articles. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were used to assess the association of miRNA polymorphisms with CCD susceptibility. A total of 51 eligible articles evaluating the association of 31 miRNA polymorphisms were identified. Meta-analysis was performed for six miRNA polymorphisms. miR-146a rs2910164 (30 studies: 13,186 cases/14,497 controls), miR-149 rs2292832 (Nine studies: 4116 cases/3511 controls), miR-149 rs71428439 (Three studies: 1556 cases/1567 controls), miR-196a2 rs11614913 (20 studies: 10,144 cases/10,433 controls), miR-218 rs11134527 (Three studies: 2,322 cases/2,754 controls) were not associated with overall CCD. miR-499 rs3746444 was associated with CCD (20 studies: 9564 cases/8876 controls). In the subgroups, rs2910164 and rs3746444 were only associated with CVDs, especially CAD. In conclusion, the results support the existence of a role for miR-146a rs2910164 and miR-499 rs3746444 in determining susceptibility to CCDs, especially CAD.

Effect of microRNA-370 on coronary atherosclerosis and its underlying mechanism

As a global health problem, cardiovascular disease threatens the lives of human beings. It has been reported that microRNAs (miRs) are important in regulating coronary atherosclerosis. In the present study, the expression levels of miR-370 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with coronary atherosclerosis were significantly increased compared with healthy patients, as demonstrated by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis. Additionally, the target of miR-370 was predicted as Forkhead Box 1 (FOXO1) with bioinformatics, and was confirmed by a dual luciferase assay. The mRNA and protein expression levels of FOXO1 were inhibited by miR-370. Furthermore, the invasion and proliferation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells were promoted by miR-370 via inhibiting the expression of FOXO1. The results obtained in the present study demonstrated that miR-370 served an important role in regulating coronary atherosclerosis via targeting FOXO1. The present data also indicated that miR-370 may be a promising molecular target for treating coronary atherosclerosis.