Mutator activity induced by microRNA-155 (miR-155) links inflammation and cancer

Expression profiles of miRNAs in the lung tissue of piglets infected with Glaesserella parasuis and the roles of ssc-miR-135 and ssc-miR-155-3p in the regulation of inflammation

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been shown to play an important regulatory role in the process of pathogenic infection. However, the miRNAs that regulate the pathogenic process of G. parasuis and their functions are still unknown. Here, high-throughput sequencing was used to quantify the expression of miRNA in piglet lung tissue after G. parasuis XX0306 strain infection. A total of 25 differentially expressed microRNAs (DEmiRNAs) were identified. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed that many of the functions of genes that may be regulated by DEmiRNA are related to inflammatory response and immune regulation. Further studies found that ssc-miR-135 may promote the expression of inflammatory factors through NF-κB signaling pathway. Whereas, ssc-miR-155-3p inhibited the inflammatory response induced by G. parasuis, and its regulatory mechanism remains to be further investigated. This study provides a valuable reference for revealing the regulatory effects of miRNAs on the pathogenesis of G. parasuis. DATA AVAILABILITY: The datasets generated during the current study are not publicly available due to this study is currently in the ongoing research stage, and some of the data cannot be made public sooner yet, but are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.

Investigating underlying molecular mechanisms, signaling pathways, emerging therapeutic approaches in pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma, a clinically challenging malignancy constitutes a significant contributor to cancer-related mortality, characterized by an inherently poor prognosis. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of pancreatic adenocarcinoma by examining its multifaceted etiologies, including genetic mutations and environmental factors. The review explains the complex molecular mechanisms underlying its pathogenesis and summarizes current therapeutic strategies, including surgery, chemotherapy, and emerging modalities such as immunotherapy. Critical molecular pathways driving pancreatic cancer development, including KRAS, Notch, and Hedgehog, are discussed. Current therapeutic strategies, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, are discussed, with an emphasis on their limitations, particularly in terms of postoperative relapse. Promising research areas, including liquid biopsies, personalized medicine, and gene editing, are explored, demonstrating the significant potential for enhancing diagnosis and treatment. While immunotherapy presents promising prospects, it faces challenges related to immune evasion mechanisms. Emerging research directions, encompassing liquid biopsies, personalized medicine, CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, and computational intelligence applications, hold promise for refining diagnostic approaches and therapeutic interventions. By integrating insights from genetic, molecular, and clinical research, innovative strategies that improve patient outcomes can be developed. Ongoing research in these emerging fields holds significant promise for advancing the diagnosis and treatment of this formidable malignancy.

A cross-sectional survey study on the correlation analysis of nutritional status and intestinal flora in patients with esophageal cancer

Objective

This study aims to examine the nutritional status of individuals diagnosed with esophageal cancer and compare the nutritional indicators and intestinal flora between malnourished and non-malnourished patients. The findings aim to contribute to the early prevention of malnutrition and the development of interventions targeting the intestinal flora to treat esophageal cancer.

Methods

An 80-patient sample of hospitalized individuals with esophageal cancer was selected from the radiotherapy department of our hospital between July 2021 and July 2022 to evaluate NRS2002 scores and PG-SGA scores. This cross-sectional analysis aimed to examine the disparities in dietary nutrient intake, blood indicators, body composition, and fecal intestinal flora between malnourished and non-malnourished patients with esophageal cancer. Additionally, we randomly selected 40 cases to predict and analyze the relationship between intestinal flora and malnutrition.

Results

The incidence of nutritional risk and malnutrition in patients with esophageal cancer was 62.5% and 60%, respectively. The low intake of carbohydrates and dietary fiber in the malnutrition group was statistically significant compared to those in the non-malnutrition group (P < 0.05). The albumin (ALB) level was lower in the malnutrition group than in the non-malnutrition group, while the C-reactive protein (CRP) level was higher; these differences were also statistically significant (P < 0.05). The basal metabolic rate, phase angle, body cell mass, muscle mass, skeletal muscle index, and fat-free mass index in the malnutrition group all decreased compared to the non-malnutrition group. The extracellular water/total body water was higher than that in the non-malnutrition group, which was also statistically significant (P < 0.05). As shown by 16S rDNA sequencing of fecal intestinal flora, there was no significant difference in α and β diversity between the malnutrition and non-malnutrition groups; at the genus level, significant differences were observed for Selimonas, Clostridioides, Dielma, Lactobacillus, and [Eubacterium]_siraeum_group. However, Dielma, Sellimonas, and Clostridioides were significantly lower in the malnutrition group than in the non-malnutrition group, while Anaerococcus, Atopobium, Eubacterium_siraeum_group, and Lactobacillus were significantly higher in the malnutrition group. Correlation analysis between different genera and clinical indicators showed that Lactobacillus was positively correlated with ALB, dietary energy, intracellular water/total body water (ICW/TBW), phase angle (PA), muscle mass (MM), skeletal muscle mass (SMM), body cell mass (BCM), basal metabolic rate (BMR), appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASMM), total body water (TBW), fat-free mass index (FFMI), skeletal muscle index (SMI), fat-free mass (FFM), Weight, body mass index (BMI) (r > 0, P < 0.05), but negatively correlated with PG-SGA score, NRS2002 score, and extracellular water/total body water (ECW/TBW) (r < 0, P < 0.05). Based on PG-SGA, there was only a low accuracy for identifying nutrient deficiency (most areas under curve (AUC) values fell within 0.5 to 0.7, or even lower), with Lachnoclostridium's AUC being 0.688 (CI = 0.518-0.858) and Lactobacillus_salivarius_g_Lactobacillus's AUC being 0.257 (CI = 0.098-0.416). A KEGG functional analysis based on 16S data indicated potential differences affecting glucose metabolism pathways and the synthesis or division of DNA, influencing the onset, development, and prognosis of esophageal cancer patients.

Conclusion

Esophageal cancer patients are more likely to be malnourished. The nutritional status of these patients is closely linked to the intake of carbohydrates and fiber, albumin levels, inflammation levels, and lean body mass. Furthermore, the patient's intestinal flora composition plays a significant role in their nutritional well-being. Consequently, modulating the intestinal flora holds promise as a potential therapeutic approach for addressing malnutrition in esophageal cancer patients.

Clinical trial registration

ChiCTR2100048141.

MicroRNA-155 and exosomal microRNA-155: Small pieces in the cardiovascular diseases puzzle

MicroRNAs (miRs, miRNAs) are known to have a part in various human illnesses, such as those related to the heart. One particular miRNA, miR-155, has been extensively studied and has been found to be involved in hematopoietic lineage differentiation, immunity, viral infections, inflammation, as well as vascular remodeling. These processes have all been connected to cardiovascular diseases, including heart failure, diabetic heart disease, coronary artery disease, and abdominal aortic aneurysm. The impacts of miR-155 depend on the type of cell it is acting on and the specific target genes involved, resulting in different mechanisms of disease. Although, the exact part of miR-155 in cardiovascular illnesses is yet not fully comprehended, as some studies have shown it to promote the development of atherosclerosis while others have shown it to prevent it. As a result, to comprehend the underlying processes of miR-155 in cardiovascular disorders, further thorough study is required. It has been discovered that exosomes that could be absorbed by adjacent or distant cells, control post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression by focusing on mRNA. Exosomal miRNAs have been found to have a range of functions, including participating in inflammatory reactions, cell movement, growth, death, autophagy, as well as epithelial-mesenchymal transition. An increasing amount of research indicates that exosomal miRNAs are important for cardiovascular health and have a major role in the development of a number of cardiovascular disorders, including pulmonary hypertension, atherosclerosis, acute coronary syndrome, heart failure, and myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury. Herein the role of miR-155 and its exosomal form in heart diseases are summarized.

Phosphorylation of AGO2 by TBK1 Promotes the Formation of Oncogenic miRISC in NSCLC

Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a highly lethal tumor that often develops resistance to targeted therapy. It is shown that Tank-binding kinase 1 (TBK1) phosphorylates AGO2 at S417 (pS417-AGO2), which promotes NSCLC progression by increasing the formation of microRNA-induced silencing complex (miRISC). High levels of pS417-AGO2 in clinical NSCLC specimens are positively associated with poor prognosis. Interestingly, the treatment with EGFR inhibitor Gefitinib can significantly induce pS417-AGO2, thereby increasing the formation and activity of oncogenic miRISC, which may contribute to NSCLC resistance to Gefitinib. Based on these, two therapeutic strategies is developed. One is jointly to antagonize multiple oncogenic miRNAs highly expressed in NSCLC and use TBK1 inhibitor Amlexanox reducing the formation of oncogenic miRISC. Another approach is to combine Gefitinib with Amlexanox to inhibit the progression of Gefitinib-resistant NSCLC. This findings reveal a novel mechanism of oncogenic miRISC regulation by TBK1-mediated pS417-AGO2 and suggest potential therapeutic approaches for NSCLC.

The biomarkers associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition in human keloids

INTRODUCTION

A keloid is a type of benign fibrotic disease with similar features to malignancies, including anti-apoptosis, over-proliferation, and invasion. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a crucial mechanism that regulates the metastatic behavior of tumors. Thus, identifying EMT biomarkers is paramount in comprehensively understanding keloid pathogenesis.

METHODS

To identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) GSE92566 dataset, with 3 normal skin and 4 keloid tissues, was downloaded from GEO databases to identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Further, EMT-related genes were downloaded from dbEMT 2.0 databases and intersected with GSE92566 DEGs to identify EMT-related-DEGs (ERDEGs). Subsequently, the ERDEGs were used for GO, KEGG, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), protein-protein interaction (PPI), and miRNAs-mRNAs network analysis. To predict small molecules for EMT inhibition, the ERDEGs were imported to cMAP databases, whereas hub genes were imported to DGidb databases. Finally, we carried out qRT-PCR and in vitro experiments to validate our findings.

RESULTS

A total of 122 ERDEGs were identified, including 59 upregulated and 63 down-regulated genes. Moreover, enrichment analysis revealed that focal adhesion, AMPK signal pathway, Wnt signal pathway, and EMT biological process were significantly enriched. STRING databases and Cytoscape software were used to construct the PPI network and EMT-related hub genes. Further, 3 modules were explored from the PPI network using the Molecular Complex Detection (MCODE) plugin. In the Cytohubba plugin, 10 hub genes were explored, including FN1, EGF, SOX9, CDH2, PROM1, EPCAM, KRT19, ITGB1, CD24, and KRT18. These genes were then enriched for the focal adhesion pathway. We constructed a microRNA (miRNA)-mRNA network, which predicted hsa-miR-155-5p (8 edges), hsa-miR-124-3p (7 edges), hsa-miR-145-5p (5 edges), hsa-miR-20a-5p (5 edges) and hsa-let-7b-5p (4 edges) as the most connected miRNAs regulating EMT. Based on the ERDEGs and 10 hub genes mentioned above, ribavirin demonstrated high drug-targeting relevance. Subsequently, qRT-PCR confirmed that the expression of FN1, ITGB1, CDH2, and EPCAM corroborated with previous findings. qRT-PCR also showed that the expression levels of hsa-miR-124-3p and hsa-miR-145-5p were significantly lower in keloids and hsa-miR-155-5p was upregulated in keloids. Finally, by treating human keloid fibroblasts (HKFs) with ribavirin in vitro, we confirmed that ribavirin could inhibit HKFs proliferation and EMT.

CONCLUSION

In summary, this work provides novel EMT biomarkers in keloids and predicts new small target molecules for keloid therapy. Our findings improve the understanding of keloid pathogenesis, providing new treatment options.

Tumor diagnosis using carbon-based quantum dots: Detection based on the hallmarks of cancer

Carbon-based quantum dots (CQDs) have been shown to have promising application value in tumor diagnosis. Their use, however, is severely hindered by the complicated nature of the nanostructures in the CQDs. Furthermore, it seems impossible to formulate the mechanisms involved using the inadequate theoretical frameworks that are currently available for CQDs. In this review, we re-consider the structure-property relationships of CQDs and summarize the current state of development of CQDs-based tumor diagnosis based on biological theories that are fully developed. The advantages and deficiencies of recent research on CQDs-based tumor diagnosis are thus explained in terms of the manifestation of nine essential changes in cell physiology. This review makes significant progress in addressing related problems encountered with other nanomaterials.

CRISPR/Cas9 deletion of MIR155HG in human T cells reduces incidence and severity of acute GVHD in a xenogeneic model

ABSTRACT

Acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is a major complication of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT). Using preclinical mouse models of disease, previous work in our laboratory has linked microRNA-155 (miR-155) to the development of acute GVHD. Transplantation of donor T cells from miR-155 host gene (MIR155HG) knockout mice prevented acute GVHD in multiple murine models of disease while maintaining critical graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) response, necessary for relapse prevention. In this study, we used clustered, regularly interspaced, short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9 genome editing to delete miR-155 in primary T cells (MIR155HGΔexon3) from human donors, resulting in stable and sustained reduction in expression of miR-155. Using the xenogeneic model of acute GVHD, we show that NOD/SCID/IL2rγnull (NSG) mice receiving MIR155HGΔexon3 human T cells provide protection from lethal acute GVHD compared with mice that received human T cells with intact miR-155. MIR155HGΔexon3 human T cells persist in the recipients displaying decreased proliferation potential, reduced pathogenic T helper-1 cell population, and infiltration into GVHD target organs, such as the liver and skin. Importantly, MIR155HGΔexon3 human T cells retain GVL response significantly improving survival in an in vivo model of xeno-GVL. Altogether, we show that CRISPR/Cas9-mediated deletion of MIR155HG in primary human donor T cells is an innovative approach to generate allogeneic donor T cells that provide protection from lethal GVHD while maintaining robust antileukemic response.

Chronic inflammation and cancer; the two sides of a coin

The correlation between chronic inflammation and cancer was initially identified in the 19th century. Biomolecules like interleukins, chemokines, tumor necrosis factors, growth factors, and adhesion molecules, which regulate inflammation, are recognized contributors to neoplastic transformation through various mechanisms, including oncogenic mutations, resistance to apoptosis, and adaptive responses like angiogenesis. This review aims to establish connections between the intricate and complex mechanisms of chronic inflammation and cancer. We illuminate implicit signaling mechanisms that drive the association between chronic inflammation and the initiation/progression of cancer, exploring potential impacts on other diseases. Additionally, we discuss the modalities of currently available therapeutic options for chronic inflammation and cancer, emphasizing the dual nature of such therapies. A thorough understanding of the molecular basis of chronic inflammation is crucial for developing novel approaches in the prevention and treatment of cancer.

Tumor macrophage functional heterogeneity can inform the development of novel cancer therapies

Macrophages represent a key component of the tumor microenvironment (TME) and are largely associated with poor prognosis. Therapeutic targeting of macrophages has historically focused on inhibiting their recruitment or reprogramming their phenotype from a protumor (M2-like) to an antitumor (M1-like) one. Unfortunately, this approach has not provided clinical breakthroughs that have changed practice. Emerging studies utilizing single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) and spatial transcriptomics have improved our understanding of the ontogeny, phenotype, and functional plasticity of macrophages. Overlaying the wealth of current information regarding macrophage molecular subtypes and functions has also identified novel therapeutic vulnerabilities that might drive better control of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). Here, we discuss the functional profiling of macrophages and provide an update of novel macrophage-targeted therapies in development.

MicroRNA-155 and cancer metastasis: Regulation of invasion, migration, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition

Among the leading causes of death globally has been cancer. Nearly 90% of all cancer-related fatalities are attributed to metastasis, which is the growing of additional malignant growths out of the original cancer origin. Therefore, a significant clinical need for a deeper comprehension of metastasis exists. Beginning investigations are being made on the function of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the metastatic process. Tiny non-coding RNAs called miRNAs have a crucial part in controlling the spread of cancer. Some miRNAs regulate migration, invasion, colonization, cancer stem cells' properties, the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and the microenvironment, among other processes, to either promote or prevent metastasis. One of the most well-conserved and versatile miRNAs, miR-155 is primarily distinguished by overexpression in a variety of illnesses, including malignant tumors. It has been discovered that altered miR-155 expression is connected to a number of physiological and pathological processes, including metastasis. As a result, miR-155-mediated signaling pathways were identified as possible cancer molecular therapy targets. The current research on miR-155, which is important in controlling cancer cells' invasion, and metastasis as well as migration, will be summarized in the current work. The crucial significance of the lncRNA/circRNA-miR-155-mRNA network as a crucial regulator of carcinogenesis and a player in the regulation of signaling pathways or related genes implicated in cancer metastasis will be covered in the final section. These might provide light on the creation of fresh treatment plans for controlling cancer metastasis.

Connecting the dots in the associations between diet, obesity, cancer, and microRNAs

The prevalence of obesity has reached pandemic levels worldwide, leading to a lower quality of life and higher health costs. Obesity is a major risk factor for noncommunicable diseases, including cancer, although obesity is one of the major preventable causes of cancer. Lifestyle factors, such as dietary quality and patterns, are also closely related to the onset and development of obesity and cancer. However, the mechanisms underlying the complex association between diet, obesity, and cancer remain unclear. In the past few decades, microRNAs (miRNAs), a class of small non-coding RNAs, have been demonstrated to play critical roles in biological processes such as cell differentiation, proliferation, and metabolism, highlighting their importance in disease development and suppression and as therapeutic targets. miRNA expression levels can be modulated by diet and are involved in cancer and obesity-related diseases. Circulating miRNAs can also mediate cell-to-cell communications. These multiple aspects of miRNAs present challenges in understanding and integrating their mechanism of action. Here, we introduce a general consideration of the associations between diet, obesity, and cancer and review the current knowledge of the molecular functions of miRNA in each context. A comprehensive understanding of the interplay between diet, obesity, and cancer could be valuable for the development of effective preventive and therapeutic strategies in future.

PTPN12 down-regulated by miR-146b-3p gene affects the malignant progression of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma

Laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) is a common malignancy among men in the anatomical position of head and neck. Hoarseness, pharyngalgia, and dyspnea are common symptoms. LSCC is a complex polygenic carcinoma that is caused by many factors involving polygenic alteration, environmental pollution, tobacco, and human papillomavirus. Classical protein tyrosine phosphatase nonreceptor type 12 (PTPN12) has been extensively studied to decipher its mechanism as a tumor suppressor gene in various human carcinomas; however, there is no comprehensive elucidation of the PTPN12 expression and its regulatory mechanisms in LSCC. As such, we expect to provide new insights for finding new biomarkers and effective therapeutic targets in LSCC. Immunohistochemical staining, western blot (WB), and quantitative real-time RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) were used for the messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression analyses of PTPN12, respectively. 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium, clone formation, transwell migration, and transwell invasion assays were used to assess the proliferation, migration, and invasion ability of LSCC cells. Online prediction and design software tools (http://www.targetscan.org/ and http://www.microRNA.org) were used to predict associated miRNA. Studying the targeted regulatory relationship between miR-146b-3p and PTPN12 was based on dual luciferase reporter gene analysis. qRT-PCR was used to assess miR-146b-3p expression in LSCC. miR-146b-3p inhibitor and mimic were transfected, followed by qRT-PCR and WB assays to detect the expression of PTPN12. The gain and loss functional experiments were used to investigate the effects of miR-146b-3p transfection on the proliferation, migration, and invasion of tumor cells. Online bioinformatics prediction software (https://cn.string-db.org/ and https://www.genecards.org/) was used to determine potential downstream target genes of PTPN12. qRT-PCR and WB analyses were used to assess the mRNA and protein expression levels of target genes. Our study showed significantly decreased mRNA and protein expression levels of PTPN12 in LSCC compared with the adjacent normal tissues. The lower PTPN12 mRNA expression was correlated with pathological differentiation, and lower PTPN12 protein expression was correlated with the TNM stage in LSCC tissues. The subsequent in vitro functional analyses showed the inhibitory effect of PTPN12 over-expression on the proliferation, migration, and invasiveness abilities of LSCC cell line. Using online prediction and design software, miR-146b-3p was searched to target PTPN12. The miR-146b-3p was expressed at a high level in LSCC tissues and cell lines. Luciferase reporter assay exhibited that miR-146b-3p inhibited the luciferase activity of PTPN12 markedly. The functional analyses showed the tumor-promoting role of miR-146b-3p on the proliferation, migration, and invasiveness abilities of LSCC cell. Furthermore, co-transfection of cells with miR-146b-3p and PTPN12 significantly restored the inhibitory effect of PTPN12 on LSCC cell growth, migration, and invasiveness. This phenomenon unveiled that miR-146b-3p regulated the proliferation, migration, and invasion of LSCC cells by targeting PTPN12. EGFR and ERBB2 were selected as the downstream-regulation target genes. Up-regulation of PTPN12 significantly suppressed EGFR expression. Accordingly, the miR-146b-3p mimic significantly up-regulated the EGFR expression. However, up-regulation of PTPN12 and miR-146b-3p mimic suppressed ERBB2 protein expression but induced its gene expression. Down-regulation of PTPN12 is associated with up-regulation of miR-146b-3p in LSCC. Moreover, PTPN12 serves as a tumor suppressor gene through regulating the proliferation, migration, and invasion of LSCC cells. miR-146b-3p/PTPN12 axis is expected to be a novel therapeutic target in LSCC.

Lipopolysaccharide exacerbates to the migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition of esophageal cancer cells by TLR4/NF-κB axis

Previous studies have shown the role of bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in promoting tumor progression. Our previous study found that the community richness of LPS-producing bacteria was significantly increased in the fresh stool samples of esophageal cancer (EC) patients, but the relative LPS levels and underlying mechanism in EC progression remain unknown. In this study, an case-control study found that the content of LPS was higher in serum of EC patients. Functional experiments of CCK8 assay and transwell assay showed that LPS contributed to the proliferation, migration, invasion of EC109 cells. Meanwhile, LPS induced EC109 to secrete IL-6 and TGF-β1. Western blot analysis revealed the level of TLR4 and NF-κB increased significantly after LPS treatment. Epithelial marker E-cadherin was significantly down-regulated and interstitial marker N-cadherin and Vimentin were up-regulated after LPS treatment. However, TAK242 (TLR4 inhibitor) or PDTC (NF-κB inhibitor) could eliminate the inflammatory and EMT-promoting effects of LPS. In total, our results suggested that LPS exacerbated to the migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition of EC109 cells by TLR4/NF-κB axis. High level LPS may have a critical effect on the occurrence and development of EC.

Malignant human thyroid neoplasms associated with blood parasitic (haemosporidian) infection

Investigation of archival cytological material obtained by cytologists during fine-needle aspiration biopsy in follicular, papillary, and medullary human thyroid cancers revealed haemosporidian (blood parasitic) infection. Haemosporidian infection was detected as exo- and intraerythrocytic stages of development in thyrocytes schizogony. The exoerythrocytic stage of development is represented as microschizonts in a thyroid needle biopsy specimen. Probably, blood parasitic infection is the common etiology for these pathologies. All biopsy material in medical laboratories was stained with RomanowskyGiemsa stain. To clarify the localization of nuclei (DNA) of thyrocytes and nuclei (DNA) of haemosporidian infection in cytological material following investigation of the entire set of smears, a selective series of original archival smears was stained (restained) with a Feulgen/Schiff reagent. Staining of smears with RomanowskyGiemsa stain is an adsorption method that enables re-use of the same smears for staining with a Feulgen/Schiff reagent where the fuchsin dye, after DNA hydrolysis by hydrochloric acid, is incorporated into DNA and stains it in redviolet (crimsonlilac) color. An intentionally unstained protoplasm of blood parasitic infection was present as a light band around erythrocyte nuclei. In follicular thyroid cancer, Feulgen staining of thyrocytes revealed nuclear DNA and parasitic DNA (haemosporidium nuclei) as point inclusions and rings and diffusely distributed in the thyrocyte cytoplasm. The thyrocyte cytoplasm and nuclei were vacuolated, with thyrocyte nuclei being deformed, flattened, and displaced to the cell periphery. The erythrocytes, which were initially stained with eosin (orange color), contained haemosporidian nuclei (DNA). In some cases, endoglobular inclusions in thyrocytes and erythrocytes were of the same size. In papillary thyroid cancer, we were able to localize the nuclear DNA of thyrocytes and the parasitic DNA as point inclusions and diffusely distributed in the thyrocyte cytoplasm. Two or more polymorphic nuclei may eccentrically occur in the hyperplastic cytoplasm. Haemosporidian microschizonts occurred circumnuclearly in thyrocytes and as an exoerythrocytic stage in the blood. The erythrocyte cytoplasm contained redviolet polymorphic haemosporidian nuclei (DNA). In medullary thyroid cancer, the hyperplastic cytoplasm of thyrocytes contained eccentrically located nuclei (DNA) of thyrocytes and small haemosporidian nuclei (DNA), which may occupy the whole thyrocyte. There were thyrocytes with vacuolated cytoplasm and pronounced nuclear polymorphism. The size of hyperplastic nuclei was several times larger than that of normal thyrocyte nuclei. The color of stained cytoplasmic and nuclear vacuoles of thyrocytes was less redviolet compared with that of surrounding tissues, which probably indicates the presence of parasitic DNA in them. The haemosporidian nuclear material in erythrocytes is represented by polymorphic nuclei, which may indicate the simultaneous presence of different pathogen species and/or generations in the blood. Intracellular parasitism of haemosporidian infection in thyrocytes (schizogony) associated with three thyroid cancers leads to pronounced cytoplasmic hyperplasia, cytoplasmic vacuolization, and nuclear vacuolization of the thyrocyte, followed by impaired secretory function. Multinucleated thyrocytes with incomplete cytokinesis appear. The absence of lytic death of the affected thyrocytes indicates that the contagium is able to control apoptosis and influence physiological functions of the cell. There is deformation of the nuclei, which leads to a decrease in their size, their flattening and displacement to the cell periphery, with high risk of DNA mutations and deletions in affected cells, reaching a neoplastic level.

Modulation of the long non-coding RNA Mir155hg by high, but not moderate, hydrostatic pressure in cartilage precursor cells

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disease in older adults and is characterized by a gradual degradation of articular cartilage due to decreased cartilage matrix gene expression and increased expression of genes involved in protein degradation, apoptosis and inflammation. Due to the high water content of cartilage, one of the main physical stimuli sensed by chondrocytes is hydrostatic pressure. We previously showed that high pressure above 20 MPa induced gene expression changes in chondrocyte precursor cells similar to what is observed in OA. Micro-RNAs are small non-coding RNAs essential to many physiological and pathological process including OA. As the micro-RNA miR-155 has been found increased in OA chondrocytes, we investigated the effects of high pressure on the expression of the miR-155 host gene Mir155hg. The chondrocyte progenitor cell line ATDC5 was pressurized under hydrostatic pressure up to 25 MPa and the expression of Mir155hg or the resulting micro-RNAs were measured; pharmacological inhibitors were used to identify the signaling pathways involved in the regulation of Mir155hg. We found that Mir155hg is strongly and rapidly up-regulated by high, but not moderate, pressure in chondrocyte progenitor cells. This up-regulation likely involves the membrane channel pannexin-1 and several intracellular signaling molecules including PKC and Src. MiR-155-5p and -3p were also up-regulated by pressure though somewhat later than Mir155hg, and a set of known miR-155-5p target genes, including Ikbke, Smarca4 and Ywhae, was affected by pressure, suggesting that Mir155hg may have important roles in cartilage physiology.

Trading places: Peptide and small molecule alternatives to oligonucleotide-based modulation of microRNA expression

It is well established that microRNA (miRNA) dysregulation is involved in the development and progression of various diseases, especially cancer. Emerging evidence suggests that small molecule and peptide agents can interfere with miRNA disease pathways. Despite this, very little is known about structural features that drive drug-miRNA interactions and subsequent inhibition. In this review, we highlight the advances made in the development of small molecule and peptide inhibitors of miRNA processing. Specifically, we attempt to draw attention to peptide features that may be critical for interaction with the miRNA secondary structure to regulate miRNA expression. We hope that this review will help to establish peptides as exciting miRNA expression modulators and will contribute towards the development of the first miRNA-targeting peptide therapy.

Dietary stilbenes as modulators of specific miRNAs in prostate cancer

Accumulated experimental data have suggested that natural plant products may be effective miRNA-modulating chemopreventive and therapeutic agents. Dietary polyphenols such as flavonoids, stilbenes, and lignans, among others, have been intensively studied for their miRNA-mediated cardioprotective, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. The aim of this review is to outline known stilbene-regulated miRNAs in cancer, with a special focus on the interplay between various miRNAs and MTA1 signaling in prostate cancer. MTA1 is an epigenetic reader and an oncogenic transcription factor that is overexpressed in advanced prostate cancer and metastasis. Not surprisingly, miRNAs that are linked to MTA1 affect cancer progression and the metastatic potential of cells. Studies led to the identification of MTA1-associated pro-oncogenic miRNAs, which are regulated by stilbenes such as resveratrol and pterostilbene. Specifically, it has been shown that inhibition of the activity of the MTA1 regulated oncogenic miR-17 family of miRNAs, miR-22, and miR-34a by stilbenes leads to inhibition of prostatic hyperplasia and tumor progression in mice and reduction of proliferation, survival and invasion of prostate cancer cells in vitro. Taken together, these findings implicate the use of resveratrol and its analogs as an attractive miRNA-mediated chemopreventive and therapeutic strategy in prostate cancer and the use of circulating miRNAs as potential predictive biomarkers for clinical development.

Genetic alterations and oxidative stress in T cell lymphomas

T cell lymphomas encompass a diverse group of Non-Hodgkin lymphomas with a wide spectrum of clinical, immunological and pathological manifestations. In the last two decades there has been a progress in our understanding of the cell of origin, genetic abnormalities and their impact on behaviour in T cell lymphomas. Genetic alterations are one of the critical drivers of the pathogenesis of T cell lymphoma. Disease progression has been correlated with multiple genetic abnormalities where malignant clones arise primarily out of the host immune surveillance arsenal. There are many cellular processes involved in disease development, and some of them are T cell signaling, differentiation, epigenetic modifications, and immune regulation. Modulation of these crucial pathways via genetic mutations and chromosomal abnormalities possessing either point or copy number mutations helps tumor cells to develop a niche favourable for their growth via metabolic alterations. Several metabolic pathways especially regulation of redox homeostasis is critical in pathogenesis of lymphoma. Disruption of redox potential and induction of oxidative stress renders malignant cells vulnerable to mitochondrial damage and triggers apoptotic pathways causing cell death. Targeting genetic abnormalities and oxidative stress along with current treatment regime have the potential for improved therapeutics and presents new combination approaches towards selective treatment of T cell lymphomas.

Preparation of a miR-155-activating nucleic acid nanoflower to study the molecular mechanism of miR-155 in inflammation

At present, the molecular mechanisms underlying inflammation remain unclear. In recent years, research on inflammation has focused on stimulating cell inflammation by using exogenous pro-inflammatory substances such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or inflammatory factors. To investigate the molecular mechanism of inflammation from a new perspective, we designed a nucleic acid nanoflowers (NFs) complex to directly activate inflammatory genes to study the inflammatory response without the need for external microbial factors to trigger an inflammatory response. An RNAa-type target gene-activated NFs was designed. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were transfected with NFs carrying small activating RNA (saRNAs) to directly co-activate microRNA (miR)-155 and SHIP1 genes. After RNA activation (RNAa)-type NFs were transferred into HUVECs, the expression of miR-155 and pro-inflammatory and cancer-related factors increased, anti-inflammatory factors were reduced, cell proliferation increased, and cell migration was promoted. IL-1β protein levels were decreased and SHIP1 expression was downregulated. When miR-155 and its target SHIP1 were both activated, the expression of both was unaltered, maintaining cell homeostasis. This points towards miR-155 overexpression can trigger inflammation, and that miR-155 and its target genes act as a molecular switch role in the development of inflammation.

Epidemiology of Glioblastoma Multiforme–Literature Review

Simple Summary

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is one of the most aggressive malignancies, accounting for 14.5% of all central nervous system tumors and 48.6% of malignant central nervous system tumors. The median overall survival (OS) of GBM patients is only 15 months. The aim of this review was to provide an overview of the epidemiology of GBM and factors that may have a significant impact on the risk of GBM.

Abstract

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is one of the most aggressive malignancies, with a median overall survival of approximately 15 months. In this review, we analyze the pathogenesis of GBM, as well as epidemiological data, by age, gender, and tumor location. The data indicate that GBM is the higher-grade primary brain tumor and is significantly more common in men. The risk of being diagnosed with glioma increases with age, and median survival remains low, despite medical advances. In addition, it is difficult to determine clearly how GBM is influenced by stimulants, certain medications (e.g., NSAIDs), cell phone use, and exposure to heavy metals.

The expression patterns of MALAT-1, NEAT-1, THRIL, and miR-155-5p in the acute to the post-acute phase of COVID-19 disease

Introduction

One of the hallmarks of COVID-19 is overwhelming inflammation, which plays a very important role in the pathogenesis of COVID-19. Thus, identification of inflammatory factors that interact with the SARS-CoV-2 can be very important to control and diagnose the severity of COVID-19. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression patterns of inflammation-related non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) including MALAT-1, NEAT-1, THRIL, and miR-155-5p from the acute phase to the recovery phase of COVID-19.

Methods

Total RNA was extracted from Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell (PBMC) samples of 20 patients with acute COVID-19 infection and 20 healthy individuals and the expression levels of MALAT-1, NEAT-1, THRIL, and miR-155-5p were evaluated by real-time PCR assay. Besides, in order to monitor the expression pattern of selected ncRNAs from the acute phase to the recovery phase of COVID-19 disease, the levels of ncRNAs were re-measured 6‒7 weeks after the acute phase.

Result

The mean expression levels of MALAT-1, THRIL, and miR-155-5p were significantly increased in the acute phase of COVID-19 compared with a healthy control group. In addition, the expression levels of MALAT-1 and THRIL in the post-acute phase of COVID-19 were significantly lower than in the acute phase of COVID-19. According to the ROC curve analysis, these ncRNAs could be considered useful biomarkers for COVID-19 diagnosis and for discriminating between acute and post-acute phase of COVID-19.

Discussion

Inflammation-related ncRNAs (MALAT-1, THRIL, and miR-150-5p) can act as hopeful biomarkers for the monitoring and diagnosis of COVID-19 disease.

miR-155: An Important Role in Inflammation Response

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small, mature, noncoding RNA that lead to posttranscriptional gene silencing to regulate gene expression. miRNAs are instrumental in biological processes such as cell development, cell differentiation, cell proliferation, and cell apoptosis. The miRNA-mediated gene silencing is an important part of the regulation of gene expression in many kinds of diseases. miR-155, one of the best-characterized miRNAs, has been found to be closely related to physiological and pathological processes. What is more, miR-155 can be used as a potential therapeutic target for inflammatory diseases. We analyze the articles about miR-155 for nearly five years, review the advanced study on the function of miR-155 in different inflammatory cells like T cells, B cells, DCs, and macrophages, and then summarize the biological functions of miR-155 in different inflammatory cells. The widespread involvement of miR-155 in human diseases has led to a novel therapeutic approach between Chinese and Western medicine.

The Unfolded Protein Response at the Tumor-Immune Interface

The tumor-immune interface has surged to primary relevance in an effort to understand the hurdles facing immune surveillance and cancer immunotherapy. Reports over the past decades have indicated a role for the unfolded protein response (UPR) in modulating not only tumor cell fitness and drug resistance, but also local immunity, with emphasis on the phenotype and altered function of immune cells such as myeloid cells and T cells. Emerging evidence also suggests that aneuploidy correlates with local immune dysregulation. Recently, we reported that the UPR serves as a link between aneuploidy and immune cell dysregulation in a cell nonautonomous way. These new findings add considerable complexity to the organization of the tumor microenvironment (TME) and the origin of its altered function. In this review, we summarize these data and also discuss the role of aneuploidy as a negative regulator of local immunity.

Integrative Analysis of Deregulated miRNAs Reveals Candidate Molecular Mechanisms Linking H. pylori Infected Peptic Ulcer Disease with Periodontitis

Objective

Periodontitis is a highly prevalent oral infectious disease and has been increasingly associated with H. pylori infection, gastric inflammation, and gastric cancer but little is known about epigenetic machinery underlying this potentially bidirectional association. The present study is aimed at identifying key deregulated miRNA, their associated genes, signaling pathways, and compounds linking periodontitis with H. pylori-associated peptic ulcer disease.

Methods

miRNA expression datasets for periodontitis-affected and H. pylori-associated peptic ulcer disease-affected tissues were sought from the GEO database. Differentially expressed miRNA (DEmiRNAs) were identified and the overlapping, shared-DEmiRNA between both datasets were determined. Shared-DEmiRNA-target networks construction and functional analyses were constructed using miRNet 2.0, including shared-DEmiRNA-gene, shared-DEmiRNA-transcription factor (TF), and shared-DEmiRNA-compound networks. Functional enrichment analysis for shared DEmiRNA-gene and shared DEmiRNA-TF networks was performed using the KEGG, Reactome, and Geno Ontology (GO) pathways.

Results

11 shared-DEmiRNAs were identified, among which 9 showed similar expression patterns in both diseases, and 7 were overexpressed. miRNA hsa-hsa-mir-155-5p and hsa-mir-29a-3p were top miRNA nodes in both gene and TF networks. The topmost candidate miRNA-deregulated genes were PTEN, CCND1, MDM2, TNRC6A, and SCD while topmost deregulated TFs included STAT3, HIF1A, EZH2, CEBPA, and RUNX1. Curcumin, 5-fluorouracil, and the gallotanin 1,2,6-Tri-O-galloyl-beta-D-glucopyranose emerged as the most relevant linkage compound targets. Functional analyses revealed multiple cancer-associated pathways, PI3K pathways, kinase binding, and transcription factor binding among as enriched by the network-associated genes and TFs.

Conclusion

Integrative analysis of deregulated miRNAs revealed candidate molecular mechanisms comprising of top miRNA, their gene, and TF targets linking H. pylori-infected peptic ulcer disease with periodontitis and highlighted compounds targeting both diseases. These findings provide basis for directing future experimental research.

Reactive oxygen species reprogram macrophages to suppress antitumor immune response through the exosomal miR-155-5p/PD-L1 pathway

Background

Cancer cells have an imbalance in oxidation-reduction (redox) homeostasis. Understanding the precise mechanisms and the impact of the altered redox microenvironment on the immunologic reaction to tumors is limited.

Methods

We isolated exosomes from ovarian cancer cells through ultracentrifuge and characterized by Western-blots and Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis. 2D, 3D-coculture tumor model, and 3D live cell imaging were used to study the interactions between tumor cells, macrophages and CD3 T cells in vitro. The role of exosomal miR-155-5p in tumor growth was evaluated in xenograft nude mice models and immune-competent mice models. Flow cytometry and flow sorting were used to determine the expression levels of miR-155-5p and PD-L1 in ascites and splenic macrophages, and the percentages of CD3 T cells subpopulations.

Results

The elevation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) greatly downregulated exosomal miR-155-5p expression in tumor cells. Neutralization of ROS with N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) increased the levels of miR-155-5p in tumor exosomes that were taken up by macrophages, leading to reduction of macrophage migration and tumor spheroid infiltration. We further found that programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) is a functional target of miR-155-5p. Co-culture of macrophages pre-treated with NAC-derived tumor exosomes or exosomal miR-155-5p with T-lymphocytes leading to an increased percentage of CD8⁺ T-lymphocyte and a decreased CD3⁺ T cell apoptosis through PD-L1 downregulation. Tumor growth in nude mice was delayed by treatment with NAC-derived tumor exosomes. Delivery of tumor exo-miR-155-5p in immune-intact mice suppressed ovarian cancer progression and macrophage infiltration, and activated CD8⁺ T cell function. It is of note that exo-miR-155-5p inhibited tumor growth more potently than the PD-L1 antibody, suggesting that in addition to PD-L1, other pathways may also be targeted by this approach.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate a novel mechanism, ROS-induced down-regulation of miR-155-5p, by which tumors modulate the microenvironment that favors tumor growth. Understanding of the negative impact of ROS on the tumor immune response will improve current therapeutic strategies. Targeting miR-155-5p can be an alternative approach to prevent formation of an immunosuppressive TME through downregulation of PD-L1 and other immunosuppressive factors.

Graphical Abstract

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13046-022-02244-1.

Molecular characterization of hypoxanthine guanine phosphoribosyltransferase mutant T cells in human blood: The concept of surrogate selection for immunologically relevant cells

Somatic cell gene mutations arise in vivo due to replication errors during DNA synthesis occurring spontaneously during normal DNA synthesis or as a result of replication on a DNA template damaged by endogenous or exogenous mutagens. In principle, changes in the frequencies of mutant cells in vivo in humans reflect changes in exposures to exogenous or endogenous DNA damaging insults, other factors being equal. It is becoming increasingly evident however, that somatic mutations in humans have a far greater range of interpretations. For example, mutations in lymphocytes provide invaluable probes for in vivo cellular and molecular processes, providing identification of clonal amplifications of these cells in autoimmune and infectious diseases, transplantation recipients, paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), and cancer. The assay for mutations of the X-chromosomal hypoxanthine guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HPRT) gene has gained popular acceptance for this purpose since viable mutant cells can be recovered for molecular and other analyses. Although the major application of the HPRT T cell assay remains human population monitoring, the enrichment of activated T cells in the mutant fraction in individuals with ongoing immunological processes has demonstrated the utility of surrogate selection, a method that uses somatic mutation as a surrogate marker for the in vivo T cell proliferation that underlies immunological processes to investigate clinical disorders with immunological features. Studies encompassing a wide range of clinical conditions are reviewed. Despite the historical importance of the HPRT mutation system in validating surrogate selection, there are now additional mutational and other methods for identifying immunologically active T cells. These methods are reviewed and provide insights for strategies to extend surrogate selection in future studies.

Engineering of Small Molecular Organic Nanoparticles for Mitochondria-Targeted Mild Photothermal Therapy of Malignant Breast Cancers

Conventional photothermal therapy (PTT) often causes unwanted hyperthermia damage to surrounding healthy tissues, and as well fails in ablation of infiltrating and malignant tumors, which even leads to tumor recurrence....

Impact of TNF-α Gene Polymorphisms on Pancreatic and Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer-Induced Cachexia in Adult Egyptian Patients: A Focus on Pathogenic Trajectories

Background

Cachexia is a frequent syndrome in pancreatic and non-small cell lung (NSCL) cancer patients. The storm of cancer-induced inflammatory cytokines, in particular TNF-α, is a crucial pathogenic mechanism. Among the molecular alterations accused of cancer-induced cachexia, TNF-α 308 G/A (rs1800629) and −1031T/C (rs1799964) are single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the gene encoding this pro-inflammatory cytokine. Recent studies have demonstrated the crucial role of non-coding microRNAs (miRNAs) in pathogenesis of different diseases including cachexia. Moreover, the mechanistic cytokine signaling pathway of miR-155, as a TNF-α regulator, supports the involvement of SOCS1, TAB2, and Foxp3, which are direct targets of TNF-α gene.

Aim

A case–control study (NCT04131478) was conducted primarily to determine the incidence of TNF-α 308 G/A (rs1800629) and −1031T/C (rs1799964) gene polymorphisms in adult Egyptian patients with local/advanced or metastatic pancreatic or NSCL cancer and investigate both as cachexia risk factors. The association of gene polymorphism with cachexia severity and the expression of miR-155 in cachectic patients were analyzed. A mechanistic investigation of the cytokine signaling pathway, involving SOCS1, TAB2, and Foxp3, was also performed.

Results

In both pancreatic and NSCL cancer cohorts, the mutant TNF-α variant of 308 G/A was positively associated with cachexia; on the contrary, that of 1031T/C was negatively associated with cachexia in the NSCL cancer patients. MiR-155 was higher in cachexia and in alignment with its severity in the cachectic group as compared with the non-cachectic group in both the pancreatic and NSCL cancer patients. Though TAB2 did not change to any significant extent in cachectic patients, the levels of SOCS1 and Foxp3 were significantly lower in the cachectic group as compared with the non-cachectic group.

Conclusion

Carriers of the A allele 308 G/A gene and high miR-155 are at greater risk of cachexia in both the pancreatic and NSCL cancer patients; however, the mutant variant of 1031T/C gene is protective against cachexia in the NSCL cancer patients. Finally, high levels of miR-155 in the cachectic group lead to negative feedback inhibition of both SOCS1 and Foxp3 in both the pancreatic and NSCL cancer patients.

Novel approaches in cancer treatment: preclinical and clinical development of small non-coding RNA therapeutics

Short or small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and microRNA (miRNAs) are molecules similar in size and function able to inhibit gene expression based on their complementarity with mRNA sequences, inducing the degradation of the transcript or the inhibition of their translation.

siRNAs bind specifically to a single gene location by sequence complementarity and regulate gene expression by specifically targeting transcription units via posttranscriptional gene silencing. miRNAs can regulate the expression of different gene targets through their imperfect base pairing.

This process - known as RNA interference (RNAi) - modulates transcription in order to maintain a correct physiological environment, playing a role in almost the totality of the cellular pathways.

siRNAs have been evolutionary evolved for the protection of genome integrity in response to exogenous and invasive nucleic acids such as transgenes or transposons. Artificial siRNAs are widely used in molecular biology for transient silencing of genes of interest. This strategy allows to inhibit the expression of any target protein of known sequence and is currently used for the treatment of different human diseases including cancer.

Modifications and rearrangements in gene regions encoding for miRNAs have been found in cancer cells, and specific miRNA expression profiles characterize the developmental lineage and the differentiation state of the tumor. miRNAs with different expression patterns in tumors have been reported as oncogenes (oncomirs) or tumor-suppressors (anti-oncomirs). RNA modulation has become important in cancer research not only for development of early and easy diagnosis tools but also as a promising novel therapeutic approach.

Despite the emerging discoveries supporting the role of miRNAs in carcinogenesis and their and siRNAs possible use in therapy, a series of concerns regarding their development, delivery and side effects have arisen.

In this review we report the biology of miRNAs and siRNAs in relation to cancer summarizing the recent methods described to use them as novel therapeutic drugs and methods to specifically deliver them to cancer cells and overcome the limitations in the use of these molecules.

Therapeutic Potential of Chemically Modified, Synthetic, Triplex Peptide Nucleic Acid-Based Oncomir Inhibitors for Cancer Therapy

miRNA-155 (miR-155) is overexpressed in various types of lymphomas and leukemias, suggesting that targeting miR-155 could be a potential platform for the development of precision medicine. Here, we tested the anticancer activity of novel, chemically modified, triplex peptide nucleic acid (PNA)-based antimiRs compared with the current state-of-the-art conventional full-length antimiRs. Next-generation modified PNAs that bound miR-155 by Watson-Crick and Hoogsteen domains possessed superior therapeutic efficacy in vivo and ex vivo compared with conventional full-length anti-miR-155. The efficacy of anti-miR-155 targeting in multiple lymphoma cell lines was comprehensively corroborated by gene expression, Western blot analysis, and cell viability-based functional studies. Finally, preclinical testing in vivo in xenograft mouse models containing lymphoma cell lines demonstrated that treatment with the miR-155-targeting next-generation antimiR resulted in a significant decrease in miR-155 expression, followed by reduced tumor growth. These findings support the effective therapeutic application of chemically modified triplex PNAs to target miR-155 to treat lymphoma. Overall, the present proof-of-concept study further implicates the potential for next-generation triplex gamma PNAs to target other miRNAs for treating cancer. SIGNIFICANCE: This study demonstrates the utility of novel oncomiR inhibitors as cancer therapeutics, providing a new approach for targeting miRNAs and other noncoding RNAs.

Tumour Microenvironment Stress Promotes the Development of Drug Resistance

Multi-drug resistance (MDR) is a leading cause of cancer-related death, and it continues to be a major barrier to cancer treatment. The tumour microenvironment (TME) has proven to play an essential role in not only cancer progression and metastasis, but also the development of resistance to chemotherapy. Despite the significant advances in the efficacy of anti-cancer therapies, the development of drug resistance remains a major impediment to therapeutic success. This review highlights the interplay between various factors within the TME that collectively initiate or propagate MDR. The key TME-mediated mechanisms of MDR regulation that will be discussed herein include (1) altered metabolic processing and the reactive oxygen species (ROS)-hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) axis; (2) changes in stromal cells; (3) increased cancer cell survival via autophagy and failure of apoptosis; (4) altered drug delivery, uptake, or efflux and (5) the induction of a cancer stem cell (CSC) phenotype. The review also discusses thought-provoking ideas that may assist in overcoming the TME-induced MDR. We conclude that stressors from the TME and exposure to chemotherapeutic agents are strongly linked to the development of MDR in cancer cells. Therefore, there remains a vast area for potential research to further elicit the interplay between factors existing both within and outside the TME. Elucidating the mechanisms within this network is essential for developing new therapeutic strategies that are less prone to failure due to the development of resistance in cancer cells.

Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals and Vitamin D Deficiency in the Pathogenesis of Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids (UFs) are the most prevalent gynecologic neoplasm, affecting 70-80% of women over their lifespan. Although UFs are benign they can become life-threatening and require invasive surgeries such as myomectomy and hysterectomy. Notwithstanding the significant negative influence UFs have on female reproductive health, very little is known about early events that initiate tumor development. Several risk factors for UFs have been identified including vitamin D deficiency, inflammation, DNA repair deficiency, and environmental exposures to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). EDCs have come under scrutiny recently due to their role in UF development. Epidemiologic studies have found an association between increased risk for early UF diagnosis and in utero EDC exposure. Environmental exposure to EDCs during uterine development increases UF incidence in a UF animal model. Notably, several studies demonstrated that abnormal myometrial stem cells (MMSCs) are the cell origin for UFs development. Our recent studies demonstrated that early-life EDC exposure reprogrammed the MMSCs toward a pro-fibroid landscape and altered the DNA repair and inflammation pathways. Notably, Vitamin D3 (VITD3) as a natural compound shrank the UF growth concomitantly with the reversion of several abnormal biological pathways and ameliorated the developmental exposure-induced DNA damage and pro-inflammation pathway in primed MMSCs. This review highlights and emphasizes the importance of multiple pathway interactions in the context of hypovitaminosis D at the MMSCs level and provides proof-of-concept information that can help develop a safe, long-term, durable, and non-surgical therapeutic option for UFs.

TLR4 signaling in the development of colitis-associated cancer and its possible interplay with microRNA-155

Ulcerative colitis (UC) has closely been associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer. However, the exact mechanisms underlying colitis-associated cancer (CAC) development remain unclear. As a classic pattern-recognition receptor, Toll like receptor (TLR)4 is a canonical receptor for lipopolysaccharide of Gram-negative bacteria (including two CAC-associated pathogens Fusobacterium nucleatum and Salmonella), and functions as a key bridge molecule linking oncogenic infection to colonic inflammatory and malignant processes. Accumulating studies verified the overexpression of TLR4 in colitis and CAC, and the over-expressed TLR4 might promote colitis-associated tumorigenesis via facilitating cell proliferation, protecting malignant cells against apoptosis, accelerating invasion and metastasis, as well as contributing to the creation of tumor-favouring cellular microenvironment. In recent years, considerable attention has been focused on the regulation of TLR4 signaling in the context of colitis-associated tumorigenesis. MicroRNA (miR)-155 and TLR4 exhibited a similar dynamic expression change during CAC development and shared similar CAC-promoting properties. The available data demonstrated an interplay between TLR4 and miR-155 in the context of different disorders or cell lines. miR-155 could augment TLR4 signaling through targeting negative regulators SOCS1 and SHIP1; and TLR4 activation would induce miR-155 expression via transcriptional and post-transcriptional mechanisms. This possible TLR4-miR-155 positive feedback loop might result in the synergistic accelerating effect of TLR4 and miR-155 on CAC development.

Mammalian host microRNA response to plasmodial infection: role as therapeutic target and potential biomarker

The appearance of increasing drug resistance in apicomplexan intracellular Plasmodium falciparum presents a significant challenge. P. falciparum infection results in cerebral malaria (CM), causing irreversible damage to the brain leading to high mortality cases. To enhance the clinical outcome of the disease, further research is required to identify new molecular targets involved in disease manifestations. Presently, the role of non-coding microRNAs (miRNAs) derived from different cells implicated in CM pathogenesis is still barely understood. Despite the absence of miRNA machinery in Plasmodium, host-parasite interactions can lead to disease severity or impart resistance to malaria. Cytoadherence and sequestration of parasitized RBCs dysregulate the miRNA profile of brain endothelial cells, leukocytes, monocytes, and platelets, disrupting blood-brain barrier integrity and activating inflammatory signaling pathways. The abundance of miRNA in blood plasma samples of CM patients directly correlates to cerebral symptoms compared to non-CM patients and healthy individuals. Moreover, the differential host-miRNA signatures distinguish P. falciparum from P. vivax infection. Here, we review the diverse functions of host-miRNA, either protective, pathogenic, or a combination of the two, which may act as prognostic markers and novel antimalarial drug targets.

Circulating microRNA profile in humans and mice with congenital GH deficiency

Reduced inflammation, increased insulin sensitivity, and protection against cancer are shared between humans and mice with GH/IGF1 deficiency. Beyond hormone levels, miRNAs are important regulators of metabolic changes associated with healthy aging. We hypothesized that GH deficiency in humans alters the abundance of circulating miRNAs and that a subset of those miRNAs may overlap with those found in GH-deficient mice. In this study, subjects with untreated congenital isolated GH deficiency (IGHD; n = 23) and control subjects matched by age and sex (n = 23) were recruited and serum was collected for miRNA sequencing. Serum miRNAs from young (6 month) and old (22 month) Ames dwarf (df/df) mice with GH deficiency and their WT littermates (n = 5/age/genotype group) were used for comparison. We observed 14 miRNAs regulated with a genotype by age effect and 19 miRNAs regulated with a genotype effect independent of age in serum of IGHD subjects. These regulated miRNAs are known for targeting pathways associated with longevity such as mTOR, insulin signaling, and FoxO. The aging function was overrepresented in IGHD individuals, mediated by hsa-miR-31, hsa-miR-146b, hsa-miR-30e, hsa-miR-100, hsa-miR-181b-2, hsa-miR-195, and hsa-miR-181b-1, which target the FoxO and mTOR pathways. Intriguingly, miR-181b-5p, miR-361-3p, miR-144-3p, and miR-155-5p were commonly regulated in the serum of humans and GH-deficient mice. In vitro assays confirmed target genes for the main up-regulated miRNAs, suggesting miRNAs regulated in IGHD individuals can regulate the expression of age-related genes. These findings indicate that systemic miRNAs regulated in IGHD individuals target pathways involved in aging in both humans and mice.

Hypoxic TAM-derived exosomal miR-155-5p promotes RCC progression through HuR-dependent IGF1R/AKT/PI3K pathway

Hypoxic tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are related to poor prognosis of patients with clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Exosomes are small lipid-bilayer vesicles that implicated in tumor progression and metastasis. However, whether hypoxic TAM-derived exosomes affect RCC progression within the hypoxic tumor microenvironment has not been elucidated. GSE analysis identified miR-155-5p was upregulated in RCC. Moreover, we quantified levels of miR-155-5p using RT-qPCR, performed immunohistochemical staining in 79 pairs of primary RCC specimens and related them to clinicopathological parameters. Higher miR-155-5p levels were related to more CD163 + TAM infiltration and elevated HIF-1a expression in our cohort. In the in vitro studies, we initially purified and characterized the exosomes from the supernatant of TAMs subjected to normoxia or hypoxia, and then transfected antagomiR-155-5p or control into these TAMs to produce corresponding exosomes. Gain and loss-of-function studies further investigated the effect of transferred hypoxic exosomal miR-155-5p on the cross-talk between TAMs and RCC cells in xenograft model and in vitro co-culture experiments. The results of RNA immunoprecipitation analyses elucidated that miR-155-5p could directly interact with human antigen R (HuR), thus increasing IGF1R mRNA stability. Mechanistically, hypoxic TAM-Exo transferred miR-155-5p promoted RCC progression partially through activating IGF1R/PI3K/AKT cascades. Taken together, transfer of miR-155-5p from hypoxic TAMs by exosomes to renal cancer cells explains the oncogenic manner, in which M2 macrophages confer the malignant phenotype to RCC cells by enhancing HuR-mediated mRNA stability of IGF1R.

Multifunctional Spiky Topological Nanocapsules for the Discrimination and Differential Inhibition of Inflammation and Cancer

Accurate discrimination of inflammations and cancers as well as differential inhibition of cancers are significant for early diagnoses and timely treatments. Nanoparticles have become new modalities for diagnosis and therapy. However, they are still challenged by the efficient delivery of multiple reagents into living cells, discriminating multisignals without any interference, and differential treatments of different diseases. Here, multifunctional spiky topological nanocapsules (STNs) are prepared for the discrimination and differential inhibition of inflammation and cancer. With unique spiky hollow architectures, STNs' advantages including excellent loading capacity, enhanced cellular uptake, DNAs' protection against degradation, target-controlled drug release, and efficient endo-/lysosome escape are demonstrated. Therefore, sequential detection of inflammation-related miR-155 (by external modified hairpin DNAs) and the cancer target of monocarboxylate transporter 1 (MCT1) (by internal loaded pH-sensitive carbon dots and MCT1 inhibitor-AZD3965) are achieved. Furthermore, the release of AZD3965 from the cavities of STNs is controlled by the miR-155 amount (first target). Therefore, the released drug of AZD3965 realizes the stage-dependent differential treatment of diseases via cellular acidosis induced by MCT1 inhibition. Via in vivo evaluations of normal, inflammatory, and liver cancer cells/mice, as well as the efficient inhibition of tumor growth, the possibility of STN-based discrimination and differential treatment is confirmed. This would encourage new strategies for multidiagnosis and differential treatment of early-stage cancer.

Cancer-associated miRNAs and their therapeutic potential

MicroRNA (miRNA; miR) is a functionally small non-coding RNA and can negatively regulate gene expression by directly binding to the target gene. Some miRNAs are closely involved in the development and progression of cancer and are abnormally expressed in many cancer types. Therefore, control of the expression of cancer-associated miRNAs is expected as a next-generation drug modality to treat advanced types of cancers with high unmet medical needs. Indeed, miRNA therapeutics, which are based on the functional inhibition of oncogenic miRNA (OncomiR) using antisense oligonucleotides (anti-miR) and the replacement via the introduction of a synthetic miRNA mimic for tumor suppressive miRNA (TS-miR), have been developed. In this review, we summarize cancer-associated miRNAs related to various cancer pathologies and their clinical application to miRNA therapeutics for cancer.

Regulation of shrimp prophenoloxidase activating system by lva-miR-4850 during bacterial infection

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) suppress gene expression and regulate biological processes. Following small RNA sequencing, shrimp hemocytes miRNAs differentially expressed in response to acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND) caused by Vibrio parahaemolyticus (VP_AHPND) were discovered and some were confirmed by qRT-PCR. VP_AHPND-responsive miRNAs were predicted to target several genes in various immune pathways. Among them, lva-miR-4850 is of interest because its predicted target mRNAs are two important genes of the proPO system; proPO2 (PO2) and proPO activating factor 2 (PPAF2). The expression of lva-miR-4850 was significantly decreased after VP_AHPND infection, whereas those of the target mRNAs, PO2 and PPAF2, and PO activity were significantly upregulated. Introducing the lva-miR-4850 mimic into VP_AHPND-infected shrimps caused a reduction in the PO2 and PPAF2 transcript levels and the PO activity, but significantly increased the number of bacteria in the VP_AHPND targeted tissues. This result inferred that lva-miR-4850 plays a crucial role in regulating the proPO system via suppressing expression of PPAF2 and PO2. To fight against VP_AHPND infection, shrimp downregulated lva-miR-4850 expression resulted in proPO activation.

Novel therapies targeting cutaneous T cell lymphomas and their microenvironment

Cutaneous T-cell lymphomas (CTCL) are rare non-Hodgkin lymphomas with a generally indolent course managed with topical, skin-directed therapies. A small subset, however, will progress to advanced stage disease necessitating systemic therapy for disease control. Currently approved therapies have low response rates and generally short durations of response. Novel therapies, therefore, are urgently needed to address this unmet need. In this review, the mechanisms of CTCL pathogenesis and progression, including the role of the tumor microenvironment and molecular alterations, are summarized. Based on these biologic insights, novel therapies currently under investigation and those with a strong preclinical biologic rationale including T cell and macrophage checkpoint inhibitors, epigenetic regulators, targeted antibodies, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and apoptosis modulating therapies are discussed.

Cobomarsen, an Oligonucleotide Inhibitor of miR-155, Slows DLBCL Tumor Cell Growth In Vitro and In Vivo

PURPOSE

miRNA-155 is an oncogenic miRNA highly expressed in B-cell malignancies, particularly in the non-germinal center B-cell or activated B-cell subtype of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (ABC-DLBCL), where it is considered a potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarker. Thus, miR-155 inhibition represents an important therapeutic strategy for B-cell lymphomas. In this study, we tested the efficacy and pharmacodynamic activity of an oligonucleotide inhibitor of miR-155, cobomarsen, in ABC-DLBCL cell lines and in corresponding xenograft mouse models. In addition, we assessed the therapeutic efficacy and safety of cobomarsen in a patient diagnosed with aggressive ABC-DLBCL.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

Preclinical studies included the delivery of cobomarsen to highly miR-155-expressing ABC-DLBCL cell lines to assess any phenotypic changes, as well as intravenous injections of cobomarsen in NSG mice carrying ABC-DLBCL xenografts, to study tumor growth and pharmacodynamics of the compound over time. To begin to test its safety and therapeutic efficacy, a patient was recruited who underwent five cycles of cobomarsen treatment.

RESULTS

Cobomarsen decreased cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in ABC-DLBCL cell lines. Intravenous administration of cobomarsen in a xenograft NSG mouse model of ABC-DLBCL reduced tumor volume, triggered apoptosis, and derepressed direct miR-155 target genes. Finally, the compound reduced and stabilized tumor growth without any toxic effects for the patient.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings support the potential therapeutic application of cobomarsen in ABC-DLBCL and other types of lymphoma with elevated miR-155 expression.

Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products Acts as a Fuel to Colorectal Cancer Development

Receptor for advanced glycation end-products (RAGE) is a multiligand binding and single-pass transmembrane protein taken in diverse chronic inflammatory conditions. RAGE behaves as a pattern recognition receptor, which binds and is engaged in the cellular response to a variety of damage-associated molecular pattern molecules, as well as HMGB1, S100 proteins, and AGEs (advanced glycation end-products). The RAGE activation turns out to a formation of numerous intracellular signaling mechanisms, resulting in the progression and prolongation of colorectal carcinoma (CRC). The RAGE expression correlates well with the survival of colon cancer cells. RAGE is involved in the tumorigenesis, which increases and develops well in the stressed tumor microenvironment. In this review, we summarized downstream signaling cascade activated by the multiligand activation of RAGE, as well as RAGE ligands and their sources, clinical studies, and tumor markers related to RAGE particularly in the inflammatory tumor microenvironment in CRC. Furthermore, the role of RAGE signaling pathway in CRC patients with diabetic mellitus is investigated. RAGE has been reported to drive assorted signaling pathways, including activator protein 1, nuclear factor-κB, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, SMAD family member 4 (Smad4), mitogen-activated protein kinases, mammalian target of rapamycin, phosphoinositide 3-kinases, reticular activating system, Wnt/β-catenin pathway, and Glycogen synthase kinase 3β, and even microRNAs.

Gene Expression Comparison between Sézary Syndrome and Lymphocytic-Variant Hypereosinophilic Syndrome Refines Biomarkers for Sézary Syndrome

Sézary syndrome (SS), an aggressive cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) with poor prognosis, is characterized by the clinical hallmarks of circulating malignant T cells, erythroderma and lymphadenopathy. However, highly variable clinical skin manifestations and similarities with benign mimickers can lead to significant diagnostic delay and inappropriate therapy that can lead to disease progression and mortality. SS has been the focus of numerous transcriptomic-profiling studies to identify sensitive and specific diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. Benign inflammatory disease controls (e.g., psoriasis, atopic dermatitis) have served to identify chronic inflammatory phenotypes in gene expression profiles, but provide limited insight into the lymphoproliferative and oncogenic roles of abnormal gene expression in SS. This perspective was recently clarified by a transcriptome meta-analysis comparing SS and lymphocytic-variant hypereosinophilic syndrome, a benign yet often clonal T-cell lymphoproliferation, with clinical features similar to SS. Here we review the rationale for selecting lymphocytic-variant hypereosinophilic syndrome (L-HES) as a disease control for SS, and discuss differentially expressed genes that may distinguish benign from malignant lymphoproliferative phenotypes, including additional context from prior gene expression studies to improve understanding of genes important in SS.

miR-155 as a novel clinical target for hematological malignancies

MicroRNAs (miRNAs), small non-coding RNAs that repress target genes, are a promising new focus of targeted therapeutics for cancer. miR-155 is a well-studied miRNA involved in inflammation that acts oncogenically in many hematological malignancies. Like other miRNAs, its role in these diseases is complex and nuanced, which gives particular power to its inhibition in diseased cells. This, together with increasing understanding of its key targets in cancer and the use of powerful mouse models of miR-155 in cancer, makes miR-155 an ideal target for therapeutic inhibition. Here, we review the role of miRNAs, and particularly miR-155, in cancers, and discuss progress on therapeutically targeting it, including the ongoing clinical trial of anti-miR-155 molecule Cobomarsen (MRG-106).

Hsa-miR-155-5p Up-Regulation in Breast Cancer and Its Relevance for Treatment With Poly[ADP-Ribose] Polymerase 1 (PARP-1) Inhibitors

miR-155-5p is a well-known oncogenic microRNA, showing frequent overexpression in human malignancies, including breast cancer. Here, we show that high miR-155-5p levels are associated with unfavorable prognostic factors in two independent breast cancer cohorts (CSS cohort, n = 283; and TCGA-BRCA dataset, n = 1,095). Consistently, miR-155-5p results as differentially expressed in the breast cancer subgroups identified by the surrogate molecular classification in the CSS cohort and the PAM50 classifier in TCGA-BRCA dataset, with the TNBC and HER2-amplified tumors carrying the highest levels. Since the analysis of TCGA-BC dataset also demonstrated a significant association between miR-155-5p levels and the presence of mutations in homologous recombination (HR) genes, we hypothesized that miR-155-5p might affect cell response to the PARP-1 inhibitor Olaparib. As expected, miR-155-5p ectopic overexpression followed by Olaparib administration resulted in a greater reduction of cell viability as compared to Olaparib administration alone, suggesting that miR-155-5p might induce a synthetic lethal effect in cancer cells when coupled with PARP-1-inhibition. Overall, our data point to a role of miR-155-5p in homologous recombination deficiency and suggest miR-155-5p might be useful in predicting response to PARP1 inhibitors in the clinical setting.

Molecular and Cellular Complexity of Glioma. Focus on Tumour Microenvironment and the Use of Molecular and Imaging Biomarkers to Overcome Treatment Resistance

This review highlights the importance and the complexity of tumour biology and microenvironment in the progression and therapy resistance of glioma. Specific gene mutations, the possible functions of several non-coding microRNAs and the intra-tumour and inter-tumour heterogeneity of cell types contribute to limit the efficacy of the actual therapeutic options. In this scenario, identification of molecular biomarkers of response and the use of multimodal in vivo imaging and in particular the Positron Emission Tomography (PET) based molecular approach, can help identifying glioma features and the modifications occurring during therapy at a regional level. Indeed, a better understanding of tumor heterogeneity and the development of diagnostic procedures can favor the identification of a cluster of patients for personalized medicine in order to improve the survival and their quality of life.