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Liguoro D, Frigerio R, Ortolano A, Sacconi A, Acunzo M, Romano G, Nigita G, Bellei B, Madonna G, Capone M, Ascierto PA, Mancini R, Ciliberto G, Fattore L. The MITF/mir-579-3p regulatory axis dictates BRAF-mutated melanoma cell fate in response to MAPK inhibitors. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:208. [PMID: 38472212 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06580-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Therapy of melanoma has improved dramatically over the last years thanks to the development of targeted therapies (MAPKi) and immunotherapies. However, drug resistance continues to limit the efficacy of these therapies. Our research group has provided robust evidence as to the involvement of a set of microRNAs in the development of resistance to target therapy in BRAF-mutated melanomas. Among them, a pivotal role is played by the oncosuppressor miR-579-3p. Here we show that miR-579-3p and the microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) influence reciprocally their expression through positive feedback regulatory loops. In particular we show that miR-579-3p is specifically deregulated in BRAF-mutant melanomas and that its expression levels mirror those of MITF. Luciferase and ChIP studies show that MITF is a positive regulator of miR-579-3p, which is located in the intron 11 of the human gene ZFR (Zink-finger recombinase) and is co-transcribed with its host gene. Moreover, miR-579-3p, by targeting BRAF, is able to stabilize MITF protein thus inducing its own transcription. From biological points of view, early exposure to MAPKi or, alternatively miR-579-3p transfection, induce block of proliferation and trigger senescence programs in BRAF-mutant melanoma cells. Finally, the long-term development of resistance to MAPKi is able to select cells characterized by the loss of both miR-579-3p and MITF and the same down-regulation is also present in patients relapsing after treatments. Altogether these findings suggest that miR-579-3p/MITF interplay potentially governs the balance between proliferation, senescence and resistance to therapies in BRAF-mutant melanomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domenico Liguoro
- SAFU Laboratory, Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostics and Technological Innovation, Translational Research Area, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Rachele Frigerio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, "Magna Graecia" University of Catanzaro, 88100, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Arianna Ortolano
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic- Medicine and Orthopedics, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Sacconi
- Clinical Trial Center, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Mario Acunzo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Pulmonary Diseases and Critical Care Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
| | - Giulia Romano
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Pulmonary Diseases and Critical Care Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
| | - Giovanni Nigita
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics and Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Barbara Bellei
- Laboratory of Cutaneous Physiopathology, San Gallicano Dermatological Institute, IRCCS, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriele Madonna
- Unit of Melanoma, Cancer Immunotherapy and Development Therapeutics, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS Fondazione G. Pascale, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Mariaelena Capone
- Unit of Melanoma, Cancer Immunotherapy and Development Therapeutics, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS Fondazione G. Pascale, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Antonio Ascierto
- Unit of Melanoma, Cancer Immunotherapy and Development Therapeutics, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS Fondazione G. Pascale, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Rita Mancini
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
- Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Department Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital-Sapienza University of Rome, 00118, Rome, Italy
| | - Gennaro Ciliberto
- Scientific Directorate, IRCSS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy.
| | - Luigi Fattore
- SAFU Laboratory, Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostics and Technological Innovation, Translational Research Area, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
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2
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Wang L, Li H, Zheng Z, Li Y. Hsa_circ_0031891 targets miR-579-3p to enhance HMGB1 expression and regulate PDGF-BB-induced human aortic vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation, migration, and dedifferentiation. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 397:1093-1104. [PMID: 37606757 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02663-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis (AS) is an underlying cause of the majority of coronary artery disease (CAD), in which proliferation, migration, and dedifferentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) exert vital roles. It has been reported that circular RNAs (circRNAs) are associated with the VSMCs function. Here, we undertook to explore the biological function and mechanism of hsa_circ_0031891 in a platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB)-induced AS cell model. Hsa_circ_0031891 and microRNA-579-3p (miR-579-3p) levels were detected by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Cell proliferation and migration were detected using Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU), wound healing, and transwell assay. Protein levels of alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), smooth muscle protein 22-α (SM22-α), Osteopontin, and High mobility group box-1 (HMGB1) were determined using western blot assay. After predicting via a variety of bioinformatics software, the binding between miR-579-3p and hsa_circ_0031891 or HMGB1 was validated using dual-luciferase reporter and RNA pull-down assays. Increased hsa_circ_0031891 and HMGB1 and reduced miR-579-3p were found in CAD patients and PDGF-BB-induced human aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (HA-VSMCs). Moreover, hsa_circ_0031891 deficiency relieved PDGF-BB-mediated HA-VSMC proliferation, migration, and dedifferentiation. Mechanically, hsa_circ_0031891 modulated HMGB1 expression via sponging miR-579-3p. Hsa_circ_0031891 boosted PDGF-BB-induced proliferation, migration, and dedifferentiation partly by regulating the miR-579-3p/HMGB1 axis, hinting at a feasible therapeutic strategy for AS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Wang
- Second Department of Cardiology, Gansu Second People's Hospital, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Huacheng Li
- Medical Intervention Department, Qingyang Second People's Hospital, No. 2, Beijing Avenue, Xifeng District, Qingyang, 745000, China.
| | - Zhizhen Zheng
- Second Department of Cardiology, Gansu Second People's Hospital, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Yongxiang Li
- Second Department of Cardiology, Gansu Second People's Hospital, Lanzhou, 730000, China
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3
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Castaldo V, Minopoli M, Di Modugno F, Sacconi A, Liguoro D, Frigerio R, Ortolano A, Di Martile M, Gesualdi L, Madonna G, Capone M, Cirombella R, Catizone A, Del Bufalo D, Vecchione A, Carriero MV, Ascierto PA, Mancini R, Fattore L, Ciliberto G. Upregulated expression of miR-4443 and miR-4488 in drug resistant melanomas promotes migratory and invasive phenotypes through downregulation of intermediate filament nestin. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:317. [PMID: 38008717 PMCID: PMC10680267 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02878-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND BRAF-mutant melanoma patients benefit from the combinatorial treatments with BRAF and MEK inhibitors. However, acquired drug resistance strongly limits the efficacy of these targeted therapies in time. Recently, many findings have underscored the involvement of microRNAs as main drivers of drug resistance. In this context, we previously identified a subset of oncomiRs strongly up-regulated in drug-resistant melanomas. In this work, we shed light on the molecular role of two as yet poorly characterized oncomiRs, miR-4443 and miR-4488. METHODS Invasion and migration have been determined by wound healing, transwell migration/invasion assays and Real Time Cell Analysis (RTCA) technology. miR-4488 and miR-4443 have been measured by qRT-PCR. Nestin levels have been tested by western blot, confocal immunofluorescence, immunohistochemical and flow cytometry analyses. RESULTS We demonstrate that the two oncomiRs are responsible for the enhanced migratory and invasive phenotypes, that are a hallmark of drug resistant melanoma cells. Moreover, miR-4443 and miR-4488 promote an aberrant cytoskeletal reorganization witnessed by the increased number of stress fibers and cellular protrusions-like cancer cell invadopodia. Mechanistically, we identified the intermediate filament nestin as a molecular target of both oncomiRs. Finally, we have shown that nestin levels are able to predict response to treatments in melanoma patients. CONCLUSIONS Altogether these findings have profound translational implications in the attempt i) to develop miRNA-targeting therapies to mitigate the metastatic phenotypes of BRAF-mutant melanomas and ii) to identify novel biomarkers able to guide clinical decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittorio Castaldo
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic- Medicine and Orthopedics, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Michele Minopoli
- Preclinical Models of Tumor Progression Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS 'Fondazione G. Pascale', 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Di Modugno
- Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Sacconi
- Clinical Trial Center, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Domenico Liguoro
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Rachele Frigerio
- SAFU Laboratory, Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostics and Technological Innovation, Translational Research Area, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Arianna Ortolano
- SAFU Laboratory, Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostics and Technological Innovation, Translational Research Area, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Di Martile
- Preclinical Models and New Therapeutic Agents Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Luisa Gesualdi
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic- Medicine and Orthopedics, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriele Madonna
- Unit of Melanoma, Cancer Immunotherapy and Development Therapeutics, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS 'Fondazione G. Pascale', 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Mariaelena Capone
- Unit of Melanoma, Cancer Immunotherapy and Development Therapeutics, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS 'Fondazione G. Pascale', 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto Cirombella
- Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Department Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 00118, Rome, Italy
| | - Angiolina Catizone
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic- Medicine and Orthopedics, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Donatella Del Bufalo
- Preclinical Models and New Therapeutic Agents Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Vecchione
- Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Department Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 00118, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Vincenza Carriero
- Preclinical Models of Tumor Progression Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS 'Fondazione G. Pascale', 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Antonio Ascierto
- Unit of Melanoma, Cancer Immunotherapy and Development Therapeutics, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS 'Fondazione G. Pascale', 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Rita Mancini
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
- Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Department Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 00118, Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Fattore
- SAFU Laboratory, Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostics and Technological Innovation, Translational Research Area, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy.
| | - Gennaro Ciliberto
- Scientific Directorate, IRCSS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
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Castellani G, Buccarelli M, Arasi MB, Rossi S, Pisanu ME, Bellenghi M, Lintas C, Tabolacci C. BRAF Mutations in Melanoma: Biological Aspects, Therapeutic Implications, and Circulating Biomarkers. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4026. [PMID: 37627054 PMCID: PMC10452867 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15164026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is an aggressive form of skin cancer resulting from the malignant transformation of melanocytes. Recent therapeutic approaches, including targeted therapy and immunotherapy, have improved the prognosis and outcome of melanoma patients. BRAF is one of the most frequently mutated oncogenes recognised in melanoma. The most frequent oncogenic BRAF mutations consist of a single point mutation at codon 600 (mostly V600E) that leads to constitutive activation of the BRAF/MEK/ERK (MAPK) signalling pathway. Therefore, mutated BRAF has become a useful target for molecular therapy and the use of BRAF kinase inhibitors has shown promising results. However, several resistance mechanisms invariably develop leading to therapeutic failure. The aim of this manuscript is to review the role of BRAF mutational status in the pathogenesis of melanoma and its impact on differentiation and inflammation. Moreover, this review focuses on the mechanisms responsible for resistance to targeted therapies in BRAF-mutated melanoma and provides an overview of circulating biomarkers including circulating tumour cells, circulating tumour DNA, and non-coding RNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Castellani
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (G.C.); (M.B.); (M.B.A.); (S.R.)
| | - Mariachiara Buccarelli
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (G.C.); (M.B.); (M.B.A.); (S.R.)
| | - Maria Beatrice Arasi
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (G.C.); (M.B.); (M.B.A.); (S.R.)
| | - Stefania Rossi
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (G.C.); (M.B.); (M.B.A.); (S.R.)
| | - Maria Elena Pisanu
- High Resolution NMR Unit, Core Facilities, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Maria Bellenghi
- Center for Gender-Specific Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Carla Lintas
- Research Unit of Medical Genetics, Department of Medicine, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, 00128 Rome, Italy;
- Operative Research Unit of Medical Genetics, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, 00128 Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Tabolacci
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (G.C.); (M.B.); (M.B.A.); (S.R.)
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5
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Blandino G, Dinami R, Marcia M, Anastasiadou E, Ryan BM, Palcau AC, Fattore L, Regazzo G, Sestito R, Loria R, Díaz Méndez AB, Cappelletto MC, Pulito C, Monteonofrio L, Calin GA, Sozzi G, Cheong JK, Aharonov R, Ciliberto G. The new world of RNA diagnostics and therapeutics. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:189. [PMID: 37507791 PMCID: PMC10386627 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02752-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The 5th Workshop IRE on Translational Oncology was held in Rome (Italy) on 27-28 March at the IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute. This meeting entitled "The New World of RNA diagnostics and therapeutics" highlightes the significant progress in the RNA field made over the last years. Research moved from pure discovery towards the development of diagnostic biomarkers or RNA-base targeted therapies seeking validation in several clinical trials. Non-coding RNAs in particular have been the focus of this workshop due to their unique properties that make them attractive tools for the diagnosis and therapy of cancer.This report collected the presentations of many scientists from different institutions that discussed recent oncology research providing an excellent overview and representative examples for each possible application of RNA as biomarker, for therapy or to increase the number of patients that can benefit from precision oncology treatment.In particular, the meeting specifically emphasized two key features of RNA applications: RNA diagnostic (Blandino, Palcau, Sestito, Díaz Méndez, Cappelletto, Pulito, Monteonofrio, Calin, Sozzi, Cheong) and RNA therapeutics (Dinami, Marcia, Anastasiadou, Ryan, Fattore, Regazzo, Loria, Aharonov).
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Blandino
- Translational Oncology Research Unit, IRCCS, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy.
| | - Roberto Dinami
- Translational Oncology Research Unit, IRCCS, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Eleni Anastasiadou
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Alina Catalina Palcau
- Translational Oncology Research Unit, IRCCS, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Fattore
- SAFU Laboratory, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Regazzo
- Translational Oncology Research Unit, IRCCS, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosanna Sestito
- Preclinical models and new therapeutic agents Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Rossella Loria
- Unit of Cellular Networks and Molecular Therapeutic Targets, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Ana Belén Díaz Méndez
- Translational Oncology Research Unit, IRCCS, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Cappelletto
- Translational Oncology Research Unit, IRCCS, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Pulito
- Translational Oncology Research Unit, IRCCS, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Monteonofrio
- Unit of Cellular Networks and Molecular Therapeutic Targets, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Jit Kong Cheong
- National University of Singapore Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, NUS Centre for Cancer Research and Mirxes Lab Pte Ltd, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Gennaro Ciliberto
- Scientific Direction, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
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6
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De Paolo R, Sarti S, Bernardi S, Cucco F, Tavosanis A, Pitto L, Poliseno L. Differential impact of BRAFV600E isoforms on tumorigenesis in a zebrafish model of melanoma. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:121. [PMID: 37393328 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-01064-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BRAFV600E comes as two main splicing variants. The well-studied ref isoform and the recently discovered X1 isoform are co-expressed in cancer cells and differ in terms of 3'UTR length and sequence, as well as C-term protein sequence. Here, we use a melanoma model in zebrafish to study the role played by each isoform in larval pigmentation, nevi formation, and their progression into melanoma tumours. We show that both BRAFV600E-ref and BRAFV600E-X1 proteins promote larval pigmentation and nevi formation, while melanoma-free survival curves performed in adult fish indicate that BRAFV600E-ref protein is a much stronger melanoma driver that BRAFV600E-X1 protein. Crucially, we also show that the presence of the 3'UTR suppresses the effect of ref protein. Our data highlight the necessity to undertake a systematic study of BRAFV600E isoforms, in order to uncover the full spectrum of their kinase-(in)dependent and coding-(in)dependent functions, hence to develop more informed strategies for therapeutic targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella De Paolo
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, Pisa, Italy
- Oncogenomics Unit, Core Research Laboratory (CRL), ISPRO, Via Moruzzi 1, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Samanta Sarti
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, Pisa, Italy
- Oncogenomics Unit, Core Research Laboratory (CRL), ISPRO, Via Moruzzi 1, 56124, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, USA
| | - Sara Bernardi
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, Pisa, Italy
- Oncogenomics Unit, Core Research Laboratory (CRL), ISPRO, Via Moruzzi 1, 56124, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Neurobiology, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Tavosanis
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, Pisa, Italy
- Oncogenomics Unit, Core Research Laboratory (CRL), ISPRO, Via Moruzzi 1, 56124, Pisa, Italy
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Laura Poliseno
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, Pisa, Italy.
- Oncogenomics Unit, Core Research Laboratory (CRL), ISPRO, Via Moruzzi 1, 56124, Pisa, Italy.
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7
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DiVincenzo MJ, Angell CD, Suarez-Kelly LP, Ren C, Barricklow Z, Moufawad M, Fadda P, Yu L, Backes FJ, Ring K, Mills A, Slingluff C, Chung C, Gru AA, Carson WE. Expression of microRNAs and their target genes in melanomas originating from gynecologic sites. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0285804. [PMID: 37384650 PMCID: PMC10309992 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0285804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanomas from gynecologic sites (MOGS) are rare and have poor survival. MicroRNAs (miRs) regulate gene expression and are dysregulated in cancer. We hypothesized that MOGS would display unique miR and mRNA expression profiles. The miR and mRNA expression profile in RNA from formalin fixed, paraffin embedded vaginal melanomas (relative to vaginal mucosa) and vulvar melanomas (relative to cutaneous melanoma) were measured with the Nanostring Human miRNA assay and Tumor Signaling mRNA assay. Differential patterns of expression were identified for 21 miRs in vaginal and 47 miRs in vulvar melanoma (fold change >2, p<0.01). In vaginal melanoma, miR-145-5p (tumor suppressor targeting TLR4, NRAS) was downregulated and miR-106a-5p, miR-17-5p, miR-20b-5p (members of miR-17-92 cluster) were upregulated. In vulvar melanoma, known tumor suppressors miR-200b-3p and miR-200a-3p were downregulated, and miR-20a-5p and miR-19b-3p, from the miR-17-92 cluster, were upregulated. Pathway analysis showed an enrichment of "proteoglycans in cancer". Among differentially expressed mRNAs, topoisomerase IIα (TOP2A) was upregulated in both MOGS. Gene targets of dysregulated miRs were identified using publicly available databases and Pearson correlations. In vaginal melanoma, suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) was downregulated, was a validated target of miR-19b-3p and miR-20a-5p and trended toward a significant inverse Pearson correlation with miR-19b-3p (p = 0.093). In vulvar melanoma, cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor 1A (CDKN1A) was downregulated, was the validated target of 22 upregulated miRs, and had a significant inverse Pearson correlation with miR-503-5p, miR-130a-3p, and miR-20a-5p (0.005 < p < 0.026). These findings support microRNAs as mediators of gene expression in MOGS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mallory J. DiVincenzo
- The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States of America
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States of America
| | - Colin D. Angell
- The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States of America
| | - Lorena P. Suarez-Kelly
- Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States of America
| | - Casey Ren
- The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States of America
| | - Zoe Barricklow
- The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States of America
| | - Maribelle Moufawad
- The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States of America
| | - Paolo Fadda
- The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States of America
| | - Lianbo Yu
- The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States of America
| | - Floor J. Backes
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States of America
| | - Kari Ring
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States of America
| | - Anne Mills
- Department of Pathology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States of America
| | - Craig Slingluff
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States of America
| | - Catherine Chung
- The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States of America
| | - Alejandro A. Gru
- Department of Pathology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States of America
| | - William E. Carson
- The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States of America
- Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States of America
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8
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Abd-Allah GM, Ismail A, El-Mahdy HA, Elsakka EG, El-Husseiny AA, Abdelmaksoud NM, Salman A, Elkhawaga SY, Doghish AS. miRNAs as potential game-changers in melanoma: A comprehensive review. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 244:154424. [PMID: 36989843 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/28/2023]
Abstract
Melanoma is the sixth most frequent malignancy. It represents 1.7% of all cancer cases worldwide. Many risk factors are associated with melanoma including ultraviolet radiation skin phenotype, Pigmented Nevi, Pesticides, and genetic and epigenetic factors. Of the main epigenetic factors affecting melanoma are microribonucleic acids (miRNAs). They are short nucleic acid chains that have the potential to prevent the expression of a number of target genes. They could target a number of genes related to melanoma initiation, stemness, angiogenesis, apoptosis, proliferation, and potential resistance to treatment. Additionally, they can control several melanoma signaling pathways, including P53, WNT/-catenin, JAK/STAT, PI3K/AKT/mTOR axis, TGF- β, and EGFR. MiRNAs also play a role in the resistance of melanoma to essential treatment regimens. The stability and abundance of miRNAs might be important factors enhancing the use of miRNAs as markers of prognosis, diagnosis, stemness, survival, and metastasis in melanoma patients.
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9
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Quan C, Liu F, Qi L, Tie Y. LRT-CLUSTER: A New Clustering Algorithm Based on Likelihood Ratio Test to Identify Driving Genes. Interdiscip Sci 2023; 15:217-230. [PMID: 36848004 DOI: 10.1007/s12539-023-00554-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
Somatic mutations often occur at high relapse sites in protein sequences, which indicates that the location clustering of somatic missense mutations can be used to identify driving genes. However, the traditional clustering algorithm has such problems as the background signal over-fitting, the clustering algorithm is not suitable for mutation data, and the performance of identifying low-frequency mutation genes needs to be improved. In this paper, we propose a linear clustering algorithm based on likelihood ratio test knowledge to identify driver genes. In this experiment, firstly, the polynucleotide mutation rate is calculated based on the prior knowledge of likelihood ratio test. Then, the simulation data set is obtained through the background mutation rate model. Finally, the unsupervised peak clustering algorithm is used to, respectively, evaluate the somatic mutation data and the simulation data to identify the driver genes. The experimental results show that our method achieves a better balance of precision and sensitivity. It can also identify the driver genes missed by other methods, making it an effective supplement to other methods. We also discover some potential linkages between genes and between genes and mutation sites, which is of great value to target drug therapy research. Method framework: Our proposed model framework is as follows. a. Counting mutation sites and the number of mutations in tumor gene elements. b. The nucleotide context mutation frequency is counted based on the likelihood ratio test knowledge, and the background mutation rate model is obtained. c. Based on Monte Carlo simulation method, data sets with the same number of mutations as gene elements are randomly sampled to obtain simulated mutation data, and the sampling frequency of each mutation site is related to the mutation rate of polynucleotide. d. The original mutation data and the simulated mutation data after random reconstruction are clustered by peak density, respectively, and the corresponding clustering scores are obtained. e. We can obtain the clustering information statistics in each gene segment and score of each gene segment from the original single nucleotide mutation data through step d. f. According to the observed score and the simulated clustering score, the p-value of the corresponding gene fragment is calculated. g. We can obtain the clustering information statistics in each gene segment and score of each gene segment from the simulated single nucleotide mutation data through step d.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenxu Quan
- School of Electrical and Information Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Fenghui Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lin Qi
- School of Electrical and Information Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yun Tie
- School of Electrical and Information Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
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10
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Xie X, Shirasu T, Li J, Guo LW, Kent KC. miR579-3p is an inhibitory modulator of neointimal hyperplasia and transcription factors c-MYB and KLF4. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:73. [PMID: 36813774 PMCID: PMC9946956 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01364-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Neointimal hyperplasia (IH) is a common vascular pathology that typically manifests in in-stent restenosis and bypass vein graft failure. Smooth muscle cell (SMC) phenotypic switching is central to IH, both regulated by some microRNAs, yet the role of miR579-3p, a scarcely studied microRNA, is not known. Unbiased bioinformatic analysis suggested that miR579-3p was repressed in human primary SMCs treated with different pro-IH cytokines. Moreover, miR579-3p was software-predicted to target both c-MYB and KLF4 - two master transcription factors known to promote SMC phenotypic switching. Interestingly, treating injured rat carotid arteries via local infusion of miR579-3p-expressing lentivirus reduced IH 14 days after injury. In cultured human SMCs, transfection with miR579-3p inhibited SMC phenotypic switching, as indicated by decreased proliferation/migration and increased SMC contractile proteins. miR579-3p transfection downregulated c-MYB and KLF4, and luciferase assays indicated miR579-3p's targeting of the 3'UTRs of the c-MYB and KLF4 mRNAs. In vivo, immunohistochemistry showed that treatment of injured rat arteries with the miR579-3p lentivirus reduced c-MYB and KLF4 and increased SMC contractile proteins. Thus, this study identifies miR579-3p as a previously unrecognized small-RNA inhibitor of IH and SMC phenotypic switch involving its targeting of c-MYB and KLF4. Further studies on miR579-3p may provide an opportunity for translation to develop IH-mitigating new therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiujie Xie
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA.
| | - Takuro Shirasu
- grid.27755.320000 0000 9136 933XDepartment of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908 USA
| | - Jing Li
- grid.27755.320000 0000 9136 933XDepartment of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908 USA
| | - Lian-Wang Guo
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA. .,Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA. .,Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA.
| | - K. Craig Kent
- grid.27755.320000 0000 9136 933XDepartment of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908 USA
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11
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Oncosuppressive miRNAs loaded in lipid nanoparticles potentiate targeted therapies in BRAF-mutant melanoma by inhibiting core escape pathways of resistance. Oncogene 2023; 42:293-307. [PMID: 36418472 PMCID: PMC9684877 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-022-02547-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BRAF-mutated melanoma relapsing after targeted therapies is an aggressive disease with unmet clinical need. Hence the need to identify novel combination therapies able to overcome drug resistance. miRNAs have emerged as orchestrators of non-genetic mechanisms adopted by melanoma cells to challenge therapies. In this context we previously identified a subset of oncosuppressor miRNAs downregulated in drug-resistant melanomas. Here we demonstrate that lipid nanoparticles co-encapsulating two of them, miR-199-5p and miR-204-5p, inhibit tumor growth both in vitro and in vivo in combination with target therapy and block the development of drug resistance. Mechanistically they act by directly reducing melanoma cell growth and also indirectly by hampering the recruitment and reprogramming of pro-tumoral macrophages. Molecularly, we demonstrate that the effects on macrophages are mediated by the dysregulation of a newly identified miR-204-5p-miR-199b-5p/CCL5 axis. Finally, we unveiled that M2 macrophages programs are molecular signatures of resistance and predict response to therapy in patients. Overall, these findings have strong translational implications to propose new combination therapies making use of RNA therapeutics for metastatic melanoma patients.
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12
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Morenikeji OB, Adegbaju MS, Okoh OS, Babalola AE, Grytsay A, Braimah OA, Akinyemi MO, Thomas BN. Deciphering inhibitory mechanism of coronavirus replication through host miRNAs-RNA-dependent RNA polymerase interactome. Front Genet 2022; 13:973252. [PMID: 36092931 PMCID: PMC9459146 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.973252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite what we know so far, Covid-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus, remains a pandemic that still require urgent healthcare intervention. The frequent mutations of the SARS-CoV-2 virus has rendered disease control with vaccines and antiviral drugs quite challenging, with newer variants surfacing constantly. There is therefore the need for newer, effective and efficacious drugs against coronaviruses. Considering the central role of RNA dependent, RNA polymerase (RdRp) as an enzyme necessary for the virus life cycle and its conservation among coronaviruses, we investigated potential host miRNAs that can be employed as broad-range antiviral drugs averse to coronaviruses, with particular emphasis on BCoV, MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2. miRNAs are small molecules capable of binding mRNA and regulate expression at transcriptional or translational levels. Our hypothesis is that host miRNAs have the potential of blocking coronavirus replication through miRNA-RdRp mRNA interaction. To investigate this, we retrieved the open reading frame (ORF1ab) nucleotide sequences and used them to interrogate miRNA databases for miRNAs that can bind them. We employed various bioinformatics tools to predict and identify the most effective host miRNAs. In all, we found 27 miRNAs that target RdRp mRNA sequence of multiple coronaviruses, of which three - hsa-miR-1283, hsa-miR-579-3p, and hsa-miR-664b-3p target BCoV, SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2. Additionally, hsa-miR-374a-5p has three bovine miRNA homologs viz bta-miR-374a, bta-miR-374b, and bta-miR-374c. Inhibiting the expression of RdRp enzyme via non-coding RNA is novel and of great therapeutic importance in the control of coronavirus replication, and could serve as a broad-spectrum antiviral, with hsa-miR-1283, hsa-miR-579-3p, and hsa-miR-664b-3p as highly promising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olanrewaju B. Morenikeji
- Division of Biological and Health Sciences, University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, Bradford, PA, United States
- *Correspondence: Olanrewaju B. Morenikeji,
| | - Muyiwa S. Adegbaju
- Institute for Plant Biotechnology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Olayinka S. Okoh
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Anchor University, Lagos, Nigeria
| | | | - Anastasia Grytsay
- Division of Biological and Health Sciences, University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, Bradford, PA, United States
| | - Olubumi A. Braimah
- Division of Biological and Health Sciences, University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, Bradford, PA, United States
| | - Mabel O. Akinyemi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Fairleigh Dickinson University, Madison, NJ, United States
| | - Bolaji N. Thomas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, United States
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13
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MiR-579 Inhibits Lung Adenocarcinoma Cell Proliferation and Metastasis via Binding to CRABP2. COMPUTATIONAL AND MATHEMATICAL METHODS IN MEDICINE 2022; 2022:9111681. [PMID: 35966249 PMCID: PMC9371869 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9111681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Lung cancer is the cancer with the highest morbidity and mortality. Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is a subtype of lung cancer. The aim of this study is to explore the functions of miR-579 and CRABP2 in lung adenocarcinoma. Methods Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) and colony formation assays were applied to calculate cell proliferative abilities. Transwell assay was utilized to measure cell invasive ability. Results MiR-579 is low expressed in LUAD tissues and cell lines. MiR-579 inhibits cell viability and invasion of lung adenocarcinoma. Knockdown of CRABP2 inhibits cell proliferation and invasion of Calu-3 cells. MiR-579 suppresses cell proliferation and invasion by regulating CRABP2 in Calu-3 cells. Conclusion Our study reveals that miR-579 acts as a tumor suppressor in LUAD and miR-579 can target and regulate the expression of CRABP2 to mediate cell proliferation and invasion. This study indicates that miR-579 has a potential to be a candidate biomarker for the treatment of LUAD.
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14
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Ai J, Tan G, Li W, Liu H, Li T, Zhang G, Zhou Z, Gan Y. Exosomes loaded with circPARD3 promotes EBV-miR-BART4-induced stemness and cisplatin resistance in nasopharyngeal carcinoma side population cells through the miR-579-3p/SIRT1/SSRP1 axis. Cell Biol Toxicol 2022:10.1007/s10565-022-09738-w. [PMID: 35844005 DOI: 10.1007/s10565-022-09738-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the effects of exosomes loaded with circular RNA PARD3 on EBV-miR-BART4-induced stemness and resistance of cisplatin in nasopharyngeal carcinoma side population (NPC-SP) cells through the miR-579-3p/SIRT1/SSRP1 axis. METHODS Sixty-five cancer tissues and 65 noncancerous tissues were collected from NPC patients or patients with rhinitis. The expressions of circPARD3, miR-579-3p, SIRT1, and SSRP1 were detected by qRT-PCR, western blot, or immunohistochemistry. In vivo tumor formation assay was performed in nude mice. Immunofluorescence and qRT-PCR were conducted for the determination of CD44 and CD133 expressions, and flow cytometry combined with Hoechst 33,342 dye efflux for identifying SP cells, CCK-8 and EdU assays for cell proliferation, and Transwell assay for migration and invasion. RESULTS CircPARD3, SIRT1, and SSRP1 were upregulated while miR-579-3p was downregulated in NPC tissues and cells. CircPARD3 was positively correlated with the expressions of SIRT1 and SSRP1, and miR-579-3p was negatively correlated with circPARD3, SIRT1, and SSRP1. Exosomes loaded with circPARD3 promoted EBV-miR-BART4-induced stemness and cisplatin resistance in NPC-SP cells, while miR-579-3p reversed the effect of exosomal circPARD3 on EBV-miR-BART4-induced stemness and cisplatin resistance in NPC-SP cells. Additionally, miR-579-3p suppressed EBV-miR-BART4-induced stemness and cisplatin resistance in NPC-SP cells by regulating SIRT1. SIRT1 upregulated SSRP1 expression by catalyzing H3K4 methylation and down-regulation of SSRP1 reversed the effect of SIRT1 on EBV-miR-BART4-induced stemness and cisplatin resistance in NPC-SP cells. CONCLUSION Exosomes loaded with circPARD3 promoted EBV-miR-BART4-induced stemness and cisplatin resistance in NPC-SP cells through the miR-579-3p/SIRT1/SSRP1 axis. Graphical Headlights • EBV-miR-BART4 induces the stemness and resistance of NPC-SP cells. • CircPARD3 regulates SIRT1 by miR-579-3p. • SIRT1 regulates SSRP1 expression by histone methylation. • Exosomes loaded with circPARD3 promotes EBV-miR-BART4-induced NPC-SP cell stemness and resistance by the miR-579-3p/SIRT1/SSRP1 axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingang Ai
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, People's Republic of China
| | - Guolin Tan
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, People's Republic of China
| | - Honghui Liu
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, People's Republic of China
| | - Tieqi Li
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, People's Republic of China
| | - Gehou Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, People's Republic of China
| | - Zheng Zhou
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yu Gan
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, People's Republic of China.
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15
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Dobre EG, Constantin C, Neagu M. Skin Cancer Research Goes Digital: Looking for Biomarkers within the Droplets. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12071136. [PMID: 35887633 PMCID: PMC9323323 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12071136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Skin cancer, which includes the most frequent malignant non-melanoma carcinomas (basal cell carcinoma, BCC, and squamous cell carcinoma, SCC), along with the difficult to treat cutaneous melanoma (CM), pose important worldwide issues for the health care system. Despite the improved anti-cancer armamentarium and the latest scientific achievements, many skin cancer patients fail to respond to therapies, due to the remarkable heterogeneity of cutaneous tumors, calling for even more sophisticated biomarker discovery and patient monitoring approaches. Droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR), a robust method for detecting and quantifying low-abundance nucleic acids, has recently emerged as a powerful technology for skin cancer analysis in tissue and liquid biopsies (LBs). The ddPCR method, being capable of analyzing various biological samples, has proved to be efficient in studying variations in gene sequences, including copy number variations (CNVs) and point mutations, DNA methylation, circulatory miRNome, and transcriptome dynamics. Moreover, ddPCR can be designed as a dynamic platform for individualized cancer detection and monitoring therapy efficacy. Here, we present the latest scientific studies applying ddPCR in dermato-oncology, highlighting the potential of this technology for skin cancer biomarker discovery and validation in the context of personalized medicine. The benefits and challenges associated with ddPCR implementation in the clinical setting, mainly when analyzing LBs, are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena-Georgiana Dobre
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Splaiul Independentei 91–95, 050095 Bucharest, Romania;
- Correspondence:
| | - Carolina Constantin
- Immunology Department, “Victor Babes” National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania;
- Pathology Department, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Monica Neagu
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Splaiul Independentei 91–95, 050095 Bucharest, Romania;
- Immunology Department, “Victor Babes” National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania;
- Pathology Department, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
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16
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Degan S, May BL, Jin YJ, Hammouda MB, Sun H, Zhang G, Wang Y, Erdmann D, Warren W, Zhang JY. Co-Treatment of Chloroquine and Trametinib Inhibits Melanoma Cell Proliferation and Decreases Immune Cell Infiltration. Front Oncol 2022; 12:782877. [PMID: 35847840 PMCID: PMC9282877 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.782877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Autophagy is characterized as a cytoprotective process and inhibition of autophagy with medicinally active agents, such as chloroquine (CQ) is proposed as a prospective adjuvant therapy for cancer. Here, we examined the preclinical effects of CQ combined with the MEK inhibitor trametinib (TRA) on melanoma. We found that cotreatment of CQ and TRA markedly slowed melanoma growth induced in Tyr-CreER.BrafCa.Ptenfl/fl mice. Immunostaining showed that trametinib decreased Ki-67+ proliferating cells, and increased TUNEL+ apoptotic cells. The combo treatment induced a further decrease of Ki-67+ proliferating cells. Consistent with the in vivo findings, CQ and TRA inhibited melanoma cell proliferation in vitro, which was correlated by decreased cyclin D1 expression. In addition, we found that tissues treated with CQ and TRA had significantly decreased numbers of CD4+ and CD8+ T-lymphocytes and F4/80+ macrophages. Together, these results indicate that cotreatment of CQ and TRA decreases cancer cell proliferation, but also dampens immune cell infiltration. Further study is warranted to understand whether CQ-induced immune suppression inadvertently affects therapeutic benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Degan
- Department of Dermatology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Brian L. May
- Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Yingai J. Jin
- Department of Dermatology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Manel Ben Hammouda
- Department of Dermatology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Huiying Sun
- Department of Dermatology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Guoqiang Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Dermatology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Detlev Erdmann
- Division of Plastic, Maxillofacial and Oral Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Warren Warren
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Jennifer Y. Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States
- Department of Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States
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17
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Quintavalle C, Meyer‐Schaller N, Roessler S, Calabrese D, Marone R, Riedl T, Picco‐Rey S, Panagiotou OA, Uzun S, Piscuoglio S, Boldanova T, Bian CB, Semela D, Jochum W, Cathomas G, Mertz KD, Diebold J, Mazzucchelli L, Koelzer VH, Weber A, Decaens T, Terracciano LM, Heikenwalder M, Hoshida Y, Andersen JB, Thorgeirsson SS, Matter MS. miR-579-3p Controls Hepatocellular Carcinoma Formation by Regulating the Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase-Protein Kinase B Pathway in Chronically Inflamed Liver. Hepatol Commun 2022; 6:1467-1481. [PMID: 35132819 PMCID: PMC9134798 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver inflammation causes continuous liver damage with progressive liver fibrosis and cirrhosis, which may eventually lead to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Whereas the 10-year incidence for HCC in patients with cirrhosis is approximately 20%, many of these patients remain tumor free for their entire lives. Clarifying the mechanisms that define the various outcomes of chronic liver inflammation is a key aspect in HCC research. In addition to a wide variety of contributing factors, microRNAs (miRNAs) have also been shown to be engaged in promoting liver cancer. Therefore, we wanted to characterize miRNAs that are involved in the development of HCC, and we designed a longitudinal study with formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded liver biopsy samples from several pathology institutes from Switzerland. We examined the miRNA expression by nCounterNanostring technology in matched nontumoral liver tissue from patients developing HCC (n = 23) before and after HCC formation in the same patient. Patients with cirrhosis (n = 26) remaining tumor free within a similar time frame served as a control cohort. Comparison of the two cohorts revealed that liver tissue from patients developing HCC displayed a down-regulation of miR-579-3p as an early step in HCC development, which was further confirmed in a validation cohort. Correlation with messenger RNA expression profiles further revealed that miR-579-3p directly attenuated phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase catalytic subunit alpha (PIK3CA) expression and consequently protein kinase B (AKT) and phosphorylated AKT. In vitro experiments and the use of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9 technology confirmed that miR-579-3p controlled cell proliferation and cell migration of liver cancer cell lines. Conclusion: Liver tissues from patients developing HCC revealed changes in miRNA expression. miR-579-3p was identified as a novel tumor suppressor regulating phosphoinositide 3-kinase-AKT signaling at the early stages of HCC development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Quintavalle
- Institute of PathologyUniversity Hospital of BaselUniversity of BaselBaselSwitzerland
| | | | | | - Diego Calabrese
- Department of BiomedicineUniversity of BaselBaselSwitzerland
- Division of Hepatology and GastroenterologyUniversity Hospital of BaselBaselSwitzerland
| | - Romina Marone
- Department of BiomedicineUniversity Hospital of Basel, University of BaselBaselSwitzerland
| | - Tobias Riedl
- Division of Chronic Inflammation and CancerGerman Cancer Research CenterHeidelbergGermany
| | - Silvia Picco‐Rey
- Institute of PathologyUniversity Hospital of BaselUniversity of BaselBaselSwitzerland
| | - Orestis A. Panagiotou
- Department of Health Services, Policy and PracticeBrown University School of Public HealthProvidenceRIUSA
| | - Sarp Uzun
- Institute of PathologyUniversity Hospital of BaselUniversity of BaselBaselSwitzerland
| | - Salvatore Piscuoglio
- Institute of PathologyUniversity Hospital of BaselUniversity of BaselBaselSwitzerland
| | - Tuyana Boldanova
- Department of BiomedicineUniversity of BaselBaselSwitzerland
- Division of Hepatology and GastroenterologyUniversity Hospital of BaselBaselSwitzerland
| | - Chaoran B. Bian
- Department of Genetics and Genomic SciencesGraduate School of Biomedical SciencesIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNYUSA
| | - David Semela
- Division of GastroenterologyKantonsspital St. GallenSt. GallenSwitzerland
| | - Wolfram Jochum
- Institute of PathologyKantonsspital St. GallenSt. GallenSwitzerland
| | - Gieri Cathomas
- Institute of PathologyKantonsspital BasellandLiestalSwitzerland
| | | | - Joachim Diebold
- Institute of PathologyLuzerner KantonsspitalLucerneSwitzerland
| | | | - Viktor H. Koelzer
- Department of Pathology and Molecular PathologyUniversity and University Hospital ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Achim Weber
- Department of Pathology and Molecular PathologyUniversity and University Hospital ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Thomas Decaens
- Institute for Advanced BiosciencesINSERM U1209/CNRS UMR 5309/Université Grenoble‐AlpesGrenobleFrance
- Université Grenoble AlpesGrenobleFrance
- Clinique Universitaire d'Hépato‐gastroentérologie, Pôle DigiduneCentre Hospitalier UniversitaireGrenobleFrance
| | - Luigi M. Terracciano
- Institute of PathologyUniversity Hospital of BaselUniversity of BaselBaselSwitzerland
| | - Mathias Heikenwalder
- Division of Chronic Inflammation and CancerGerman Cancer Research CenterHeidelbergGermany
| | - Yujin Hoshida
- Liver Tumor ProgramSimmons Comprehensive Cancer CenterDivision of Digestive and Liver DiseasesUniversity of Texas Southwestern Medical CenterDallasTXUSA
| | - Jesper B. Andersen
- Biotech Research and Innovation CenterDepartment of Health and Medical SciencesUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
| | - Snorri S. Thorgeirsson
- Laboratory of Experimental CarcinogenesisCenter for Cancer ResearchNational Cancer Institute‐National Institutes of HealthBethesdaMDUSA
| | - Matthias S. Matter
- Institute of PathologyUniversity Hospital of BaselUniversity of BaselBaselSwitzerland
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18
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Exosomal CTCF Confers Cisplatin Resistance in Osteosarcoma by Promoting Autophagy via the IGF2-AS/miR-579-3p/MSH6 Axis. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2022; 2022:9390611. [PMID: 35693981 PMCID: PMC9175095 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9390611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Cancer-derived exosomes participate in carcinogenesis and progression of cancers, including metastasis and drug-resistance. Of note, CTCF has been suggested to induce drug resistance in various cancers. Herein, we aim to investigate the role of cisplatin- (CDDP-) resistant osteosarcoma- (OS-) derived exosomal CTCF in OS cell resistance to CDDP and its mechanistic basis. Differentially expressed transcription factors, long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), miRNAs, and genes in OS were retrieved using bioinformatics approaches. Exosomes were extracted from CDDP-resistant OS cells and then cocultured with parental OS cells, followed by lentiviral transduction to manipulate the expression of CTCF, IGF2-AS, miR-579-3p, and MSH6. We assessed the in vitro and in vivo effects on malignant phenotypes, autophagy, CDDP sensitivity, and tumor formation of OS cells. It was established that CTCF and IGF2-AS were highly expressed in CDDP-resistant OS cells, and the CDDP-resistant OS cell-derived exosomal CTCF enhanced IGF2-AS transcription. CDDP-resistant OS-derived exosomes transmitted CTCF to OS cells and increased CDDP resistance in OS cells by activating an autophagy-dependent pathway. Mechanistically, CTCF activated IGF2-AS transcription and IGF2-AS competitively bound to miR-579-3p to upregulate MSH6 expression. Additionally, the promoting function of exosomal CTCF-mediated IGF2-AS/miR-579-3p/MSH6 in OS cell resistance to CDDP was confirmed in vivo. Taken together, CDDP-resistant OS-derived exosomal CTCF enhanced resistance of OS cells to CDDP via activating the autophagy-dependent pathway, providing a potential therapeutic consideration for OS treatment.
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Wu G, Sun P, Qin C. GUSBP11 Inhibited The Progression of Triple Negative Breast Cancer via Targeting The miR-579-3p/SPNS2 Axis. CELL JOURNAL 2022; 24:230-238. [PMID: 35717570 PMCID: PMC9445519 DOI: 10.22074/cellj.2022.8024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Growing evidences have exposed the important roles of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) inhibition. The function of glucuronidase beta pseudogene 11 (GUSBP11) in the TNBC occurrence remains obscure. To detect the function of GUSBP11 in TNBC progression and explore its downstream molecular mechanism. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this experimental study, using quantitative reverse transcription real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), we measured the GUSBP11 expression in the TNBC cell lines. Gain-of-function assays, including colony formation, flow cytometry, and western blot were used to identify the probable effects of GUSBP11 overexpression on the malignant behaviors of TNBC cell lines. Moreover, mechanism assays, including RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), RNA pull down and luciferase reporter assays were taken to measure the possible mechanism of GUSBP11 in the TNBC cell lines. RESULTS GUSBP11 expressed at a low RNA level in the TNBC cell lines. Overexpression of GUSBP11 RNA expression inhibited the proliferation, migration, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and stemness while elevated the apoptosis of the TNBC cell lines. GUSBP11 positively regulated the expression of sphingolipid transporter 2 (SPNS2) via acting as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) of miR-579-3p, thereby suppressing the development of TNBC cell lines. CONCLUSION GUSBP11 impedes TNBC progression via modulating the miR-579-3p/SPNS2 axis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Chunzhi Qin
- Department of General SurgeryJinshan HospitalFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
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20
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Circ_0001093 promotes glutamine metabolism and cancer progression of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma by targeting miR-579-3p/glutaminase axis. J Bioenerg Biomembr 2022; 54:119-134. [PMID: 35322289 DOI: 10.1007/s10863-022-09935-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Increasing studies indicate that circular RNAs (circRNAs) play critical roles in tumor metabolism of multiple cancers. However, the contribution of circRNAs in glutamine metabolism of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains elusive. The objective of this research was to investigate the role and mechanism of circRNA hsa_circ_0001093 (circ_0001093) in the glutamine metabolism and tumorigenesis of ESCC. Circ_0001093, microRNA-579-3p (miR-579-3p) and glutaminase (GLS) expressions in ESCC tissues and cell lines were measured by qRT-PCR, tissue array or Western blot. Cell proliferation, invasion and migration were assessed by CCK-8 or transwell assays. Glutamine consumption, glutamate and ATP production were detected by indicated assay kits. The relationships between circ_0001093 and miR-579-3p or GLS mRNA were investigated by bioinformatics analysis, RNA pull-down, luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays. Here, we found that circ_0001093 expression was up-regulated in ESCC tissues and cell lines. Increased circ_0001093 expression predicted an unfavourable prognosis, and was associated with the lymph node metastasis, TNM staging and tumor size in ESCC tissues. Circ_0001093 knockdown suppressed cell proliferation, invasion, migration and glutamine metabolism of ESCC cells, while circ_0001093 over-expression showed the opposite effects. Mechanistically, circ_0001093 acted as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) by sponging miR-579-3p, thereby increasing GLS expression. Furthermore, the inhibitory effects of circ_0001093 knockdown on the invasion, migration and glutamine metabolism were partly rescued by miR-579-3p inhibition or GLS over-expression in ESCC cells. Additionally, miR-579-3p expression was down-regulated in ESCC tissues, while GLS expression was up-regulated. In conclusion, this study first provides evidence that the circ_0001093/miR-579-3p/GLS regulatory network can affect glutamine metabolism and malignant phenotype of ESCC, which can further impact ESCC progression.
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21
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Zhong J, Yan W, Wang C, Liu W, Lin X, Zou Z, Sun W, Chen Y. BRAF Inhibitor Resistance in Melanoma: Mechanisms and Alternative Therapeutic Strategies. Curr Treat Options Oncol 2022; 23:1503-1521. [PMID: 36181568 PMCID: PMC9596525 DOI: 10.1007/s11864-022-01006-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT Melanoma is caused by a variety of somatic mutations, and among these mutations, BRAF mutation occurs most frequently and has routinely been evaluated as a critical diagnostic biomarker in clinical practice. The introduction of targeted agents for BRAF-mutant melanoma has significantly improved overall survival in a large proportion of patients. However, there is BRAF inhibitor resistance in most patients, and its mechanisms are complicated and need further clarification. Additionally, treatment approaches to overcome resistance have evolved rapidly, shifting from monotherapy to multimodality treatment, which has dramatically improved patient outcomes in clinical trials and practice. This review highlights the mechanisms of BRAF inhibitor resistance in melanoma and discusses the current state of its therapeutic approaches that can be further explored in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingqin Zhong
- grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Department of Musculoskeletal Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dongan Road, Xuhui, Shanghai, China
| | - Wangjun Yan
- grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Department of Musculoskeletal Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dongan Road, Xuhui, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunmeng Wang
- grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Department of Musculoskeletal Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dongan Road, Xuhui, Shanghai, China
| | - Wanlin Liu
- grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Department of Musculoskeletal Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dongan Road, Xuhui, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinyi Lin
- grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Department of Musculoskeletal Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dongan Road, Xuhui, Shanghai, China
| | - Zijian Zou
- grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Department of Musculoskeletal Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dongan Road, Xuhui, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Sun
- grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Department of Musculoskeletal Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dongan Road, Xuhui, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong Chen
- grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Department of Musculoskeletal Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dongan Road, Xuhui, Shanghai, China
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22
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Is miRNA Regulation the Key to Controlling Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer Evolution? Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12121929. [PMID: 34946878 PMCID: PMC8701953 DOI: 10.3390/genes12121929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Non melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is one of the most common types of skin cancer. It has a number of subtypes, which include basal cell carcinoma, cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma and Merkel cell carcinoma. MicroRNAs are short, non-coding RNA (ribonucleic acid) molecules, capable of regulating gene expression at a post transcriptional level. They play a pivotal role in a variety of physiologic cellular functions and pathologies, including malignant diseases. The development of miRNAs represents an important study field, which has been extensively exploited in melanoma for almost a decade with promising results, therefore we consider it a stepstone for further research projects also in non-melanoma skin cancers. The aim of our study was to explore the current literature in order to present the role of the different miRNAs in some of the most frequent types of NMSC pertaining to oncogenesis, evolution and therapy. The most relevant and accurate available data from the literature were evaluated. Our study concluded that there are almost 100 miRNAs which can be upregulated or downregulated and can play a role in oncogenesis. They can be easily identified in circulation, are stable and they can be important diagnosis/prognosis and therapy monitoring markers.
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23
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Santoro G, Lapucci C, Giannoccaro M, Caporilli S, Rusin M, Seidenari A, Ferrari M, Farina A. Abnormal Circulating Maternal miRNA Expression Is Associated with a Low (<4%) Cell-Free DNA Fetal Fraction. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11112108. [PMID: 34829454 PMCID: PMC8625387 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11112108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The present pilot study investigates whether an abnormal miRNA profile in NIPT plasma samples can explain the finding of a low cell-free DNA (cfDNA) fetal fraction (cfDNAff) in euploid fetuses and non-obese women. Twelve women who underwent neoBona® NIPT with a normal fetal karyotype were studied. Six with a cfDNAff < 4% were matched with a control group with normal levels of cfDNAff > 4%. Samples were processed using the nanostring nCounter® platform with a panel of 800 miRNAs. Four of the maternal miRNAs, miR-579, miR-612, miR-3144 and miR-6721, had a significant abnormal expression in patients. A data filtering analysis showed that miR-579, miR-612, miR-3144 and miR-6721 targeted 169, 1, 48 and 136 placenta-specific genes, respectively. miR-579, miR-3144 and miR-6721 shared placenta-specific targeted genes involved in trophoblast invasion and migration pathways (IGF2R, PTCD2, SATB2, PLAC8). Moreover, the miRNA target genes encoded proteins localized in the placenta and involved in the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia, including chorion-specific transcription factor GCMa, PRG2, Lin-28 Homolog B and IGFBP1. In conclusion, aberrant maternal miRNA expression in circulating plasma could be a source of dysregulating trophoblast invasion and migration and could represent a novel cause of a low cfDNAff in the sera of pregnant women at the time of NIPT analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graziano Santoro
- Genetic Unit, Synlab, Via B. L. Pavoni 18, Castenedolo, 25014 Brescia, Italy; (G.S.); (C.L.); (M.G.); (S.C.)
| | - Cristina Lapucci
- Genetic Unit, Synlab, Via B. L. Pavoni 18, Castenedolo, 25014 Brescia, Italy; (G.S.); (C.L.); (M.G.); (S.C.)
| | - Marco Giannoccaro
- Genetic Unit, Synlab, Via B. L. Pavoni 18, Castenedolo, 25014 Brescia, Italy; (G.S.); (C.L.); (M.G.); (S.C.)
| | - Simona Caporilli
- Genetic Unit, Synlab, Via B. L. Pavoni 18, Castenedolo, 25014 Brescia, Italy; (G.S.); (C.L.); (M.G.); (S.C.)
| | - Martina Rusin
- Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery (DIMEC), IRCCS Sant’Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (M.R.); (A.S.); (A.F.)
| | - Anna Seidenari
- Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery (DIMEC), IRCCS Sant’Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (M.R.); (A.S.); (A.F.)
| | - Maurizio Ferrari
- IRCCS, SDN, Via Gianturco 113, 80143 Naples, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Antonio Farina
- Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery (DIMEC), IRCCS Sant’Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (M.R.); (A.S.); (A.F.)
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24
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Non-coding RNA dysregulation in skin cancers. Essays Biochem 2021; 65:641-655. [PMID: 34414406 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20200048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Skin cancers are the most common cancers worldwide. They can be classified in melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC), the latter includes squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). In recent years, the crucial role of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in skin cancer pathogenesis has become increasingly evident. NcRNAs are functional RNA molecules that lack any protein-coding activity. These ncRNAs are classified based on their length: small, medium-size, and long ncRNAs. Among the most studied ncRNAs there are microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNA (circRNAs). ncRNAs have the ability to regulate gene expression at transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels and are involved in skin cancer cell proliferation, angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis. Many ncRNAs exhibit tissue- or cell-specific expression while others have been correlated to tumor staging, drug resistance, and prognosis. For these reasons, ncRNAs have both a diagnostic and prognostic significance in skin cancers. Our review summarizes the functional role of ncRNAs in skin cancers and their potential clinical application as biomarkers.
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25
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Peng Q, Wang J. Non-coding RNAs in melanoma: Biological functions and potential clinical applications. MOLECULAR THERAPY-ONCOLYTICS 2021; 22:219-231. [PMID: 34514101 PMCID: PMC8424110 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2021.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Malignant melanoma (MM) is a malignant tumor that originates from melanocytes and has a high mortality rate. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment are very important for survival. So far, the exact molecular mechanism leading to the occurrence of melanoma, especially the molecular metastatic mechanism, remains largely unknown. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), such as microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNA (circRNAs), have been investigated and found to play vital roles in regulating tumor occurrence and development, including melanoma. In this review, we summarize the progress of recent research on the effects of ncRNAs on melanoma and attempt to elucidate the role of ncRNAs as molecular markers or potential targets that will provide promising application perspectives on melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiu Peng
- Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Jia Wang
- Department of Immunology, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, Shanxi 046000 China
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26
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Wang L, Liu LZ, Jiang BH. Dysregulation of microRNAs in metal-induced angiogenesis and carcinogenesis. Semin Cancer Biol 2021; 76:279-286. [PMID: 34428550 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small endogenous non-coding RNAs that regulate cancer initiation, development, angiogenesis, and therapeutic resistance. Metal exposure widely occurs through air, water, soil, food, and industrial contaminants. Hundreds of millions of people may have metal exposure associated with toxicity, serious health problems, and cancer occurrence. Metal exposure is found to induce oxidative stress, DNA damage and repair, and activation of multiple signaling pathways. However, molecular mechanisms of metal-induced carcinogenesis remain to be elucidated. Recent studies demonstrated that the exposure of metals such as arsenic, hexavalent chromium, cadmium, and nickel caused dysregulation of microRNAs that are implicated to play an important role in cell transformation, tumor growth and angiogenesis. This review focuses on the recent studies that show metal-induced miRNA dysregulation and underlined mechanisms in cell malignant transformation, angiogenesis and tumor growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Wang
- Academy of Medical Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China; Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Cell Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, United States
| | - Ling-Zhi Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, United States.
| | - Bing-Hua Jiang
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Cell Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, United States.
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27
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Zeng W, Guo M, Yao L, Deng Z. Circular RNA hsa_circ_0033144 (CircBCL11B) regulates oral squamous cell carcinoma progression via the miR-579/LASP1 axis. Bioengineered 2021; 12:4111-4122. [PMID: 34288804 PMCID: PMC8806526 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2021.1953214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Oral squamous cell carcinoma is one of the most common malignant tumors of the head and neck. Increasing evidence suggests that various non-coding RNAs, such as circRNAs, are implicated in a myriad of biological processes supporting tumor progression. Recent studies have revealed that several circRNAs are dysregulated in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). However, their functional role in OSCC and the underlying mechanism remains to be further investigated. In this study, we aim to evaluate the biological role and survey the molecular mechanism of circBCL11B in regulating the progression of OSCC. We demonstrated that circBCL11B was significantly upregulated in OSCC tissues and cell lines, and the expression level was correlated with the malignancy. Silencing cirCBCL11B inhibited cell proliferation and migration, and also included cell apoptosis in OSCC cells. miR-145 was identified as a downstream target mediating the effect of circBCL11B by targeting LASP1. miR-145 negatively regulated LASP1 expression, which could be rescued by miR-145 inhibitor. Collectively, our study uncovered a functional role of circBCL11B/miR-579/LASP1 axis in OSCC, implying that targeting these molecules could be an intervention approach in OSCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zeng
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial surgery, Meizhou People's Hospital, Meizhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Mengmeng Guo
- Stomatology Outpatient Department, Meizhou People's Hospital, Meizhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Lin Yao
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial surgery, Meizhou People's Hospital, Meizhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zhang Deng
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial surgery, Meizhou People's Hospital, Meizhou, Guangdong Province, China
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Xu J, Xu W, Yang X, Liu Z, Sun Q. LncRNA HCG11/miR-579-3p/MDM2 axis modulates malignant biological properties in pancreatic carcinoma via Notch/Hes1 signaling pathway. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:16471-16484. [PMID: 34230221 PMCID: PMC8266358 DOI: 10.18632/aging.203167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasing reports have revealed that dysregulated expression of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) is involved in pancreatic carcinoma progression. This study intends to explore the function and molecular mechanism of lncRNA HLA complex group 11 (HCG11) in pancreatic carcinoma. METHODS The expression profiles of HCG11 in pancreatic carcinoma samples were detected by qPCR. Bioinformatics analysis was applied to detect the associations among HCG11/miR-579-3p/MDM2. The malignant properties of pancreatic carcinoma cells were measured by numerous biological assays. Xenograft model was exploited to detect the effect of HCG11 on tumor growth. RESULTS A significant increase of HCG11 was occurred in pancreatic carcinoma samples. Knockdown of HCG11 suppressed the progression of pancreatic carcinoma cells. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that HCG11 upregulated MDM2 expression by competitively targeting miR-579-3p. The rescue assays showed that miR-579-3p reversed cell behaviors caused by HCG11, and MDM2 reversed cell properties induced by miR-579-3p. The Notch1 intracellular domain (NICD) and Hes1 protein levels were increased by overexpression of HCG11/MDM2. The tumor growth was suppressed after depletion of HCG11, followed by suppressing Ki67, PCNA and Vimentin expression, increasing TUNEL-positive cells and E-cadherin expression. CONCLUSIONS Our observations highlighted that HCG11 contributed to the progression of pancreatic carcinoma by promoting growth and aggressiveness, and inhibiting apoptosis via miR-579-3p/MDM2/Notch/Hes1 axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Xu
- Department of Pancreatic and Thyroid Surgery, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Weixue Xu
- Department of Pancreatic and Thyroid Surgery, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xuan Yang
- Department of Pancreatic and Thyroid Surgery, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhen Liu
- Department of Pancreatic and Thyroid Surgery, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Qinyun Sun
- Department of Pancreatic and Thyroid Surgery, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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Gebhardt K, Edemir B, Groß E, Nemetschke L, Kewitz-Hempel S, Moritz RKC, Sunderkötter C, Gerloff D. BRAF/EZH2 Signaling Represses miR-129-5p Inhibition of SOX4 Thereby Modulating BRAFi Resistance in Melanoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13102393. [PMID: 34063443 PMCID: PMC8155874 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13102393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Approximately 60% of all melanomas are associated with a constitutive activating BRAF mutation. Inhibition of BRAF downstream signaling by targeted therapies significantly improved patient outcomes. However, most patients eventually develop resistance. Here we identified miR-129-5p as a novel tumor suppressor in BRAF mutated melanoma, which expression is increased during response to BRAF inhibition, but repressed in an EZH2 dependent manner during activated BRAF signaling. Overexpression of miR-129-5p decreases melanoma cell proliferation and improves response to BRAF inhibition by targeting SOX4. Taken together our results emphasize SOX4 as a potential therapeutic target in BRAF driven melanoma which could be attacked by pharmaceutically. Abstract Many melanomas are associated with activating BRAF mutation. Targeted therapies by inhibitors of BRAF and MEK (BRAFi, MEKi) show marked antitumor response, but become limited by drug resistance. The mechanisms for this are not fully revealed, but include miRNA. Wishing to improve efficacy of BRAFi and knowing that certain miRNAs are linked to resistance to BRAFi, we wanted to focus on miRNAs exclusively associated with response to BRAFi. We found increased expression of miR-129-5p during BRAFi treatment of BRAF- mutant melanoma cells. Parallel to emergence of resistance we observed mir-129-5p expression to become suppressed by BRAF/EZH2 signaling. In functional analyses we revealed that miR-129-5p acts as a tumor suppressor as its overexpression decreased cell proliferation, improved treatment response and reduced viability of BRAFi resistant melanoma cells. By protein expression analyses and luciferase reporter assays we confirmed SOX4 as a direct target of mir-129-5p. Thus, modulation of the miR-129-5p-SOX4 axis could serve as a promising novel strategy to improve response to BRAFi in melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Gebhardt
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany; (K.G.); (L.N.); (S.K.-H.); (R.K.C.M.); (C.S.)
| | - Bayram Edemir
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, Hematology and Oncology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany; (B.E.); (E.G.)
| | - Elisabeth Groß
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, Hematology and Oncology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany; (B.E.); (E.G.)
| | - Linda Nemetschke
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany; (K.G.); (L.N.); (S.K.-H.); (R.K.C.M.); (C.S.)
| | - Stefanie Kewitz-Hempel
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany; (K.G.); (L.N.); (S.K.-H.); (R.K.C.M.); (C.S.)
| | - Rose K. C. Moritz
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany; (K.G.); (L.N.); (S.K.-H.); (R.K.C.M.); (C.S.)
| | - Cord Sunderkötter
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany; (K.G.); (L.N.); (S.K.-H.); (R.K.C.M.); (C.S.)
| | - Dennis Gerloff
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany; (K.G.); (L.N.); (S.K.-H.); (R.K.C.M.); (C.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-0345-557-5255
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Many Distinct Ways Lead to Drug Resistance in BRAF- and NRAS-Mutated Melanomas. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11050424. [PMID: 34063141 PMCID: PMC8148104 DOI: 10.3390/life11050424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Advanced melanoma is a relentless tumor with a high metastatic potential. The combat of melanoma by using the targeted therapy is impeded because several major driver mutations fuel its growth (predominantly BRAF and NRAS). Both these mutated oncogenes strongly activate the MAPK (MEK/ERK) pathway. Therefore, specific inhibitors of these oncoproteins or MAPK pathway components or their combination have been used for tumor eradication. After a good initial response, resistant cells develop almost universally and need the drug for further expansion. Multiple mechanisms, sometimes very distant from the MAPK pathway, are responsible for the development of resistance. Here, we review many of the mechanisms causing resistance and leading to the dismal final outcome of mutated BRAF and NRAS therapy. Very heterogeneous events lead to drug resistance. Due to this, each individual mechanism would be in fact needed to be determined for a personalized therapy to treat patients more efficiently and causally according to molecular findings. This procedure is practically impossible in the clinic. Other approaches are therefore needed, such as combined treatment with more drugs simultaneously from the beginning of the therapy. This could eradicate tumor cells more rapidly and greatly diminish the possibility of emerging mechanisms that allow the evolution of drug resistance.
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Tonella L, Pala V, Ponti R, Rubatto M, Gallo G, Mastorino L, Avallone G, Merli M, Agostini A, Fava P, Bertero L, Senetta R, Osella-Abate S, Ribero S, Fierro MT, Quaglino P. Prognostic and Predictive Biomarkers in Stage III Melanoma: Current Insights and Clinical Implications. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:4561. [PMID: 33925387 PMCID: PMC8123895 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is one of the most aggressive skin cancers. The 5-year survival rate of stage III melanoma patients ranges from 93% (IIIA) to 32% (IIID) with a high risk of recurrence after complete surgery. The introduction of target and immune therapies has dramatically improved the overall survival, but the identification of patients with a high risk of relapse who will benefit from adjuvant therapy and the determination of the best treatment choice remain crucial. Currently, patient prognosis is based on clinico-pathological features, highlighting the urgent need of predictive and prognostic markers to improve patient management. In recent years, many groups have focused their attention on identifying molecular biomarkers with prognostic and predictive potential. In this review, we examined the main candidate biomarkers reported in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Tonella
- Department of Medical Sciences, Dermatologic Clinic, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (V.P.); (R.P.); (M.R.); (G.G.); (L.M.); (G.A.); (M.M.); (A.A.); (P.F.); (S.R.); (M.T.F.); (P.Q.)
| | - Valentina Pala
- Department of Medical Sciences, Dermatologic Clinic, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (V.P.); (R.P.); (M.R.); (G.G.); (L.M.); (G.A.); (M.M.); (A.A.); (P.F.); (S.R.); (M.T.F.); (P.Q.)
| | - Renata Ponti
- Department of Medical Sciences, Dermatologic Clinic, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (V.P.); (R.P.); (M.R.); (G.G.); (L.M.); (G.A.); (M.M.); (A.A.); (P.F.); (S.R.); (M.T.F.); (P.Q.)
| | - Marco Rubatto
- Department of Medical Sciences, Dermatologic Clinic, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (V.P.); (R.P.); (M.R.); (G.G.); (L.M.); (G.A.); (M.M.); (A.A.); (P.F.); (S.R.); (M.T.F.); (P.Q.)
| | - Giuseppe Gallo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Dermatologic Clinic, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (V.P.); (R.P.); (M.R.); (G.G.); (L.M.); (G.A.); (M.M.); (A.A.); (P.F.); (S.R.); (M.T.F.); (P.Q.)
| | - Luca Mastorino
- Department of Medical Sciences, Dermatologic Clinic, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (V.P.); (R.P.); (M.R.); (G.G.); (L.M.); (G.A.); (M.M.); (A.A.); (P.F.); (S.R.); (M.T.F.); (P.Q.)
| | - Gianluca Avallone
- Department of Medical Sciences, Dermatologic Clinic, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (V.P.); (R.P.); (M.R.); (G.G.); (L.M.); (G.A.); (M.M.); (A.A.); (P.F.); (S.R.); (M.T.F.); (P.Q.)
| | - Martina Merli
- Department of Medical Sciences, Dermatologic Clinic, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (V.P.); (R.P.); (M.R.); (G.G.); (L.M.); (G.A.); (M.M.); (A.A.); (P.F.); (S.R.); (M.T.F.); (P.Q.)
| | - Andrea Agostini
- Department of Medical Sciences, Dermatologic Clinic, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (V.P.); (R.P.); (M.R.); (G.G.); (L.M.); (G.A.); (M.M.); (A.A.); (P.F.); (S.R.); (M.T.F.); (P.Q.)
| | - Paolo Fava
- Department of Medical Sciences, Dermatologic Clinic, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (V.P.); (R.P.); (M.R.); (G.G.); (L.M.); (G.A.); (M.M.); (A.A.); (P.F.); (S.R.); (M.T.F.); (P.Q.)
| | - Luca Bertero
- Department of Oncology, Pathology Unit, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (L.B.); (R.S.); (S.O.-A.)
| | - Rebecca Senetta
- Department of Oncology, Pathology Unit, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (L.B.); (R.S.); (S.O.-A.)
| | - Simona Osella-Abate
- Department of Oncology, Pathology Unit, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (L.B.); (R.S.); (S.O.-A.)
| | - Simone Ribero
- Department of Medical Sciences, Dermatologic Clinic, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (V.P.); (R.P.); (M.R.); (G.G.); (L.M.); (G.A.); (M.M.); (A.A.); (P.F.); (S.R.); (M.T.F.); (P.Q.)
| | - Maria Teresa Fierro
- Department of Medical Sciences, Dermatologic Clinic, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (V.P.); (R.P.); (M.R.); (G.G.); (L.M.); (G.A.); (M.M.); (A.A.); (P.F.); (S.R.); (M.T.F.); (P.Q.)
| | - Pietro Quaglino
- Department of Medical Sciences, Dermatologic Clinic, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (V.P.); (R.P.); (M.R.); (G.G.); (L.M.); (G.A.); (M.M.); (A.A.); (P.F.); (S.R.); (M.T.F.); (P.Q.)
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Ghafouri-Fard S, Gholipour M, Taheri M. MicroRNA Signature in Melanoma: Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets. Front Oncol 2021; 11:608987. [PMID: 33968718 PMCID: PMC8100681 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.608987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is the utmost fatal kind of skin neoplasms. Molecular changes occurring during the pathogenic processes of initiation and progression of melanoma are diverse and include activating mutations in BRAF and NRAS genes, hyper-activation of PI3K/AKT pathway, inactivation of p53 and alterations in CDK4/CDKN2A axis. Moreover, several miRNAs have been identified to be implicated in the biology of melanoma through modulation of expression of genes being involved in these pathways. In the current review, we provide a summary of the bulk of information about the role of miRNAs in the pathobiology of melanoma, their possible application as biomarkers and their emerging role as therapeutic targets for this kind of skin cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soudeh Ghafouri-Fard
- Department of Medical Genetics, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdi Gholipour
- Department of Medical Genetics, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Taheri
- Urology and Nephrology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Grixti JM, Ayers D, Day PJR. An Analysis of Mechanisms for Cellular Uptake of miRNAs to Enhance Drug Delivery and Efficacy in Cancer Chemoresistance. Noncoding RNA 2021; 7:27. [PMID: 33923485 PMCID: PMC8167612 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna7020027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Up until recently, it was believed that pharmaceutical drugs and their metabolites enter into the cell to gain access to their targets via simple diffusion across the hydrophobic lipid cellular membrane, at a rate which is based on their lipophilicity. An increasing amount of evidence indicates that the phospholipid bilayer-mediated drug diffusion is in fact negligible, and that drugs pass through cell membranes via proteinaceous membrane transporters or carriers which are normally used for the transportation of nutrients and intermediate metabolites. Drugs can be targeted to specific cells and tissues which express the relevant transporters, leading to the design of safe and efficacious treatments. Furthermore, transporter expression levels can be manipulated, systematically and in a high-throughput manner, allowing for considerable progress in determining which transporters are used by specific drugs. The ever-expanding field of miRNA therapeutics is not without its challenges, with the most notable one being the safe and effective delivery of the miRNA mimic/antagonist safely to the target cell cytoplasm for attaining the desired clinical outcome, particularly in miRNA-based cancer therapeutics, due to the poor efficiency of neo-vascular systems revolting around the tumour site, brought about by tumour-induced angiogenesis. This acquisition of resistance to several types of anticancer drugs can be as a result of an upregulation of efflux transporters expression, which eject drugs from cells, hence lowering drug efficacy, resulting in multidrug resistance. In this article, the latest available data on human microRNAs has been reviewed, together with the most recently described mechanisms for miRNA uptake in cells, for future therapeutic enhancements against cancer chemoresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justine M. Grixti
- Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, Biosciences Building, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZB, UK;
| | - Duncan Ayers
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Biobanking, University of Malta, Msida MSD 2080, Malta
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Human Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester M1 7DN, UK;
| | - Philip J. R. Day
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Human Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester M1 7DN, UK;
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Pham VVH, Liu L, Bracken C, Goodall G, Li J, Le TD. Computational methods for cancer driver discovery: A survey. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:5553-5568. [PMID: 33859763 PMCID: PMC8039954 DOI: 10.7150/thno.52670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Identifying the genes responsible for driving cancer is of critical importance for directing treatment. Accordingly, multiple computational tools have been developed to facilitate this task. Due to the different methods employed by these tools, different data considered by the tools, and the rapidly evolving nature of the field, the selection of an appropriate tool for cancer driver discovery is not straightforward. This survey seeks to provide a comprehensive review of the different computational methods for discovering cancer drivers. We categorise the methods into three groups; methods for single driver identification, methods for driver module identification, and methods for identifying personalised cancer drivers. In addition to providing a “one-stop” reference of these methods, by evaluating and comparing their performance, we also provide readers the information about the different capabilities of the methods in identifying biologically significant cancer drivers. The biologically relevant information identified by these tools can be seen through the enrichment of discovered cancer drivers in GO biological processes and KEGG pathways and through our identification of a small cancer-driver cohort that is capable of stratifying patient survival.
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Fattore L, Ruggiero CF, Liguoro D, Castaldo V, Catizone A, Ciliberto G, Mancini R. The Promise of Liquid Biopsy to Predict Response to Immunotherapy in Metastatic Melanoma. Front Oncol 2021; 11:645069. [PMID: 33816298 PMCID: PMC8013996 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.645069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastatic melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer whose incidence has been rising dramatically over the last few decades. Nowadays, the most successful approach in treating advanced melanoma is immunotherapy which encompasses the use of immune checkpoint blockers able to unleash the immune system's activity against tumor cells. Immunotherapy has dramatically changed clinical practice by contributing to increasing long term overall survival. Despite these striking therapeutic effects, the clinical benefits are strongly mitigated by innate or acquired resistance. In this context, it is of utmost importance to develop methods capable of predicting patient response to immunotherapy. To this purpose, one major step forward may be provided by measuring non-invasive biomarkers in human fluids, namely Liquid Biopsies (LBs). Several LB approaches have been developed over the last few years thanks to technological breakthroughs that have allowed to evaluate circulating components also when they are present in low abundance. The elements of this so-called "circulome" mostly encompass: tumor DNA, tumor and immune cells, soluble factors and non-coding RNAs. Here, we review the current knowledge of these molecules as predictors of response to immunotherapy in metastatic melanoma and predict that LB will soon enter into routine practice in order to guide clinical decisions for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Fattore
- SAFU Laboratory, Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostics and Technological Innovation, Translational Research Area, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Ciro Francesco Ruggiero
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University “Magna Graecia” of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Domenico Liguoro
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Vittorio Castaldo
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Angiolina Catizone
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic- Medicine and Orthopedics, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Gennaro Ciliberto
- Scientific Directorate, IRCSS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Rita Mancini
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Integrated Genomics Identifies miR-181/TFAM Pathway as a Critical Driver of Drug Resistance in Melanoma. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041801. [PMID: 33670365 PMCID: PMC7918089 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are attractive therapeutic targets and promising candidates as molecular biomarkers for various therapy-resistant tumors. However, the association between miRNAs and drug resistance in melanoma remains to be elucidated. We used an integrative genomic analysis to comprehensively study the miRNA expression profiles of drug-resistant melanoma patients and cell lines. MicroRNA-181a and -181b (miR181a/b) were identified as the most significantly down-regulated miRNAs in resistant melanoma patients and cell lines. Re-establishment of miR-181a/b expression reverses the resistance of melanoma cells to the BRAF inhibitor dabrafenib. Introduction of miR-181 mimics markedly decreases the expression of TFAM in A375 melanoma cells resistant to BRAF inhibitors. Furthermore, melanoma growth was inhibited in A375 and M14 resistant melanoma cells transfected with miR-181a/b mimics, while miR-181a/b depletion enhanced resistance in sensitive cell lines. Collectively, our study demonstrated that miR-181a/b could reverse the resistance to BRAF inhibitors in dabrafenib resistant melanoma cell lines. In addition, miR-181a and -181b are strongly down-regulated in tumor samples from patients before and after the development of resistance to targeted therapies. Finally, melanoma tissues with high miR-181a and -181b expression presented favorable outcomes in terms of Progression Free Survival, suggesting that miR-181 is a clinically relevant candidate for therapeutic development or biomarker-based therapy selection.
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Colak DK, Egeli U, Eryilmaz IE, Aybastier O, Malyer H, Cecener G, Tunca B. The Anticancer Effect of Inula viscosa Methanol Extract by miRNAs' Re-regulation: An in vitro Study on Human Malignant Melanoma Cells. Nutr Cancer 2021; 74:211-224. [PMID: 33570434 DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2020.1869791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Alternative and natural therapies are needed for malignant melanoma (MM), the most deadly skin cancer type due to chemotherapy's limited effect. In the present study, we evaluated the anticancer potentials of Inula viscosa methanol and water extracts (IVM and IVW) on MM cells, A2058 and MeWo, and normal fibroblasts. After the chromatographic and antioxidant activity analysis, their antiproliferative effects were determined with the increasing doses for 24-72 h. IVM induced more cell death in a dose and time-dependent manner in MM cells compared to IVW. This effect was probably due to the higher amount of phenolics in it. IVM significantly induced more apoptotic death in MM cells than fibroblasts (p < 0.01), which was also supported morphologically. IVM also caused cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 and G2/M phases in A2058 and MeWo, respectively, and suppressed the migration ability of MM cells (p < 0.01). Additionally, IVM was found to have significant potential in regulating MM-related miRNAs, upregulating miR-579 and miR-524, and downregulating miR-191 and miR-193, in MM cells (p < 0.05, p < 0.01). As a result, the anticancer effect of IVM via regulating miRNAs' expression has been demonstrated for the first time. Thus, IVM, with these potentials, may be a promising candidate for MM treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Unal Egeli
- Medical Biology Department, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
| | | | - Onder Aybastier
- Analytical Chemistry Department, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Hulusi Malyer
- Biology Department, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Gulsah Cecener
- Medical Biology Department, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Berrin Tunca
- Medical Biology Department, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
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In silico analysis of non-coding RNAs and putative target genes implicated in metabolic syndrome. Comput Biol Med 2021; 130:104229. [PMID: 33516961 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2021.104229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Regulation of gene expression is vital to maintain normal cellular functions and its dysregulation leads to molecular pathogenesis of many diseases and disorders. Non-coding RNAs regulate the expression of approximately 60% of protein-coding genes and their malfunction contribute to the development of numerous diseases. The involvement of variant forms of circulating non-coding RNAs in diseases has been established. However, their function as biomarkers or therapeutic targets in metabolic disorders are underexploited. The aim of this study was to predict therapeutic targets and construction of biomarker panel for early detection of metabolic syndrome (MS). Non-coding RNAs including circular RNAs (circRNAs), long chain non-coding RNAs (lncRNA) and micro RNAs (miRNAs) were extracted from intensive literature search and experimentally supported databases. Raw data of gene expression profiles of MS were obtained from the GEO dataset and analyzed to get differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Functional enrichment analysis, network illustration of non-coding RNAs and predicted target DEGs were performed. Furthermore, a few numbers of miRNAs targeted DEGs were subjected to homology study. The strong association of hsa-miR-548c-3p, hsa-miR-579-3p, hsa-miR-17-5p and hsa-miR-320a was observed with the pathogenesis of MS. It includes the regulation of genes in glucose and lipid homeostasis, MAPKK activity, regulation of inflammatory responses and many signaling pathways such as insulin resistance, JAK/STAT and mTOR. Finally, interactions of hsa-miR-17-5p:STAT3, hsa-miR-320:JAK2, hsa-miR-320:S6K and hsa-let-7:DVL hybrids were predicted. Results of this study suggest the designing of a biomarker panel to detect early onset and molecular approach for the management of MS.
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Wang L, Zhou J, Zhang Y, Hu T, Sun Y. Long Non-Coding RNA HCG11 Aggravates Osteosarcoma Carcinogenesis via Regulating the microRNA-579/MMP13 Axis. Int J Gen Med 2020; 13:1685-1695. [PMID: 33408506 PMCID: PMC7781107 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s274641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Previous studies have suggested that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) were involved in tumorigenesis of various human carcinomas, including osteosarcoma (OS). However, the expression and specific role of lncRNA HLA complex group 11 (HCG11) in OS remain unknown. The current study aimed at revealing the role of lncRNA HCG11 and its related mechanism in OS. Methods lncRNA HCG11 expression was verified with RT-qPCR followed by sub-localization determination. LncRNA-microRNA (miRNA) and miRNA–mRNA interactions were predicted by online bioinformatics websites. Validation was performed using dual-luciferase reporter gene assays, and gain- and loss-of-function experiments. The effects of lncRNA HCG11, miR-579 and matrix metalloproteinase 13 (MMP13) on the proliferation, migration and invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of OS cells were detected using cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), Transwell assays and Western blot analysis. Results LncRNA HCG11 overexpression was observed in OS tissues and cell lines. Downregulation of lncRNA HCG11/MMP13 or overexpression of miR-579 blocked the progression of OS cells. LncRNA HCG11, which is located in the cytoplasm, promoted MMP13 expression through sponging miR-579. Conclusion LncRNA HCG11 might be beneficial for OS aggravation via sponging miR-579 and facilitating MMP13 expression, which represents a candidate biomarker and target for OS therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Wang
- Clinical Laboratory Department, Ningbo Sixth Hospital, Ningbo 315000, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingzhen Zhou
- Clinical Laboratory Department, Ningbo Second Hospital, Ningbo 315000, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Bone Oncology, Ningbo Sixth Hospital, Ningbo 315000, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Hu
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First People's Hospital of Yongkang, Yongkang 321300, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongning Sun
- Clinical Laboratory Department, Ningbo Sixth Hospital, Ningbo 315000, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
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Lazăr AD, Dinescu S, Costache M. The Non-Coding Landscape of Cutaneous Malignant Melanoma: A Possible Route to Efficient Targeted Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12113378. [PMID: 33203119 PMCID: PMC7696690 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12113378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Considered to be highly lethal if not diagnosed in early stages, cutaneous malignant melanoma is among the most aggressive and treatment-resistant human cancers, and its incidence continues to rise, largely due to ultraviolet radiation exposure, which is the main carcinogenic factor. Over the years, researchers have started to unveil the molecular mechanisms by which malignant melanoma can be triggered and sustained, in order to establish specific, reliable biomarkers that could aid the prognosis and diagnosis of this fatal disease, and serve as targets for development of novel efficient therapies. The high mutational burden and heterogeneous nature of melanoma shifted the main focus from the genetic landscape to epigenetic and epitranscriptomic modifications, aiming at elucidating the role of non-coding RNA molecules in the fine tuning of melanoma progression. Here we review the contribution of microRNAs and lncRNAs to melanoma invasion, metastasis and acquired drug resistance, highlighting their potential for clinical applications as biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreea D. Lazăr
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Bucharest, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (A.D.L.); (M.C.)
| | - Sorina Dinescu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Bucharest, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (A.D.L.); (M.C.)
- Research Institute of the University of Bucharest, 050663 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence:
| | - Marieta Costache
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Bucharest, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (A.D.L.); (M.C.)
- Research Institute of the University of Bucharest, 050663 Bucharest, Romania
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Fattore L, Mancini R, Ciliberto G. Cancer Stem Cells and the Slow Cycling Phenotype: How to Cut the Gordian Knot Driving Resistance to Therapy in Melanoma. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12113368. [PMID: 33202944 PMCID: PMC7696527 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12113368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cancer stem cells play a central role in the development of cancer and are poorly sensitive to standard chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Furthermore, they are also responsible for the onset of drug resistance. This also occurs in malignant melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Hence, cancer stem cells eradication is one of the main challenges for medical oncology. Here, we conducted a bioinformatics approach aimed to identify the main circuits and proteins underpinning cancer stem cell fitness in melanoma. Several lessons emerged from our work and may help to conceptualize future therapeutic approaches to prolong the efficacy of current therapies. Abstract Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have historically been defined as slow cycling elements that are able to differentiate into mature cells but without dedifferentiation in the opposite direction. Thanks to advances in genomic and non-genomic technologies, the CSC theory has more recently been reconsidered in a dynamic manner according to a “phenotype switching” plastic model. Transcriptional reprogramming rewires this plasticity and enables heterogeneous tumors to influence cancer progression and to adapt themselves to drug exposure by selecting a subpopulation of slow cycling cells, similar in nature to the originally defined CSCs. This model has been conceptualized for malignant melanoma tailored to explain resistance to target therapies. Here, we conducted a bioinformatics analysis of available data directed to the identification of the molecular pathways sustaining slow cycling melanoma stem cells. Using this approach, we identified a signature of 25 genes that were assigned to four major clusters, namely (1) kinases and metabolic changes, (2) melanoma-associated proteins, (3) Hippo pathway and (4) slow cycling/CSCs factors. Furthermore, we show how a protein−protein interaction network may be the main driver of these melanoma cell subpopulations. Finally, mining The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data we evaluated the expression levels of this signature in the four melanoma mutational subtypes. The concomitant alteration of these genes correlates with the worst overall survival (OS) for melanoma patients harboring BRAF-mutations. All together these results underscore the potentiality to target this signature to selectively kill CSCs and to achieve disease control in melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Fattore
- Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostics and Technological Innovation, SAFU Laboratory, Translational Research Area, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Melanoma, Cancer Immunotherapy and Development Therapeutics, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS, “Fondazione G. Pascale”, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Rita Mancini
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant’ Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Gennaro Ciliberto
- Scientific Directorate, IRCSS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
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Proietti I, Skroza N, Bernardini N, Tolino E, Balduzzi V, Marchesiello A, Michelini S, Volpe S, Mambrin A, Mangino G, Romeo G, Maddalena P, Rees C, Potenza C. Mechanisms of Acquired BRAF Inhibitor Resistance in Melanoma: A Systematic Review. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E2801. [PMID: 33003483 PMCID: PMC7600801 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12102801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
This systematic review investigated the literature on acquired v-raf murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B1 (BRAF) inhibitor resistance in patients with melanoma. We searched MEDLINE for articles on BRAF inhibitor resistance in patients with melanoma published since January 2010 in the following areas: (1) genetic basis of resistance; (2) epigenetic and transcriptomic mechanisms; (3) influence of the immune system on resistance development; and (4) combination therapy to overcome resistance. Common resistance mutations in melanoma are BRAF splice variants, BRAF amplification, neuroblastoma RAS viral oncogene homolog (NRAS) mutations and mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 1/2 (MEK1/2) mutations. Genetic and epigenetic changes reactivate previously blocked mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways, activate alternative signaling pathways, and cause epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Once BRAF inhibitor resistance develops, the tumor microenvironment reverts to a low immunogenic state secondary to the induction of programmed cell death ligand-1. Combining a BRAF inhibitor with a MEK inhibitor delays resistance development and increases duration of response. Multiple other combinations based on known mechanisms of resistance are being investigated. BRAF inhibitor-resistant cells develop a range of 'escape routes', so multiple different treatment targets will probably be required to overcome resistance. In the future, it may be possible to personalize combination therapy towards the specific resistance pathway in individual patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Proietti
- Dermatology Unit “Daniele Innocenzi”, Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Bio-Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Fiorini Hospital, Polo Pontino, 04019 Terracina, Italy; (N.S.); (N.B.); (E.T.); (V.B.); (A.M.); (S.M.); (S.V.); (A.M.); (P.M.); (C.P.)
| | - Nevena Skroza
- Dermatology Unit “Daniele Innocenzi”, Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Bio-Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Fiorini Hospital, Polo Pontino, 04019 Terracina, Italy; (N.S.); (N.B.); (E.T.); (V.B.); (A.M.); (S.M.); (S.V.); (A.M.); (P.M.); (C.P.)
| | - Nicoletta Bernardini
- Dermatology Unit “Daniele Innocenzi”, Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Bio-Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Fiorini Hospital, Polo Pontino, 04019 Terracina, Italy; (N.S.); (N.B.); (E.T.); (V.B.); (A.M.); (S.M.); (S.V.); (A.M.); (P.M.); (C.P.)
| | - Ersilia Tolino
- Dermatology Unit “Daniele Innocenzi”, Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Bio-Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Fiorini Hospital, Polo Pontino, 04019 Terracina, Italy; (N.S.); (N.B.); (E.T.); (V.B.); (A.M.); (S.M.); (S.V.); (A.M.); (P.M.); (C.P.)
| | - Veronica Balduzzi
- Dermatology Unit “Daniele Innocenzi”, Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Bio-Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Fiorini Hospital, Polo Pontino, 04019 Terracina, Italy; (N.S.); (N.B.); (E.T.); (V.B.); (A.M.); (S.M.); (S.V.); (A.M.); (P.M.); (C.P.)
| | - Anna Marchesiello
- Dermatology Unit “Daniele Innocenzi”, Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Bio-Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Fiorini Hospital, Polo Pontino, 04019 Terracina, Italy; (N.S.); (N.B.); (E.T.); (V.B.); (A.M.); (S.M.); (S.V.); (A.M.); (P.M.); (C.P.)
| | - Simone Michelini
- Dermatology Unit “Daniele Innocenzi”, Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Bio-Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Fiorini Hospital, Polo Pontino, 04019 Terracina, Italy; (N.S.); (N.B.); (E.T.); (V.B.); (A.M.); (S.M.); (S.V.); (A.M.); (P.M.); (C.P.)
| | - Salvatore Volpe
- Dermatology Unit “Daniele Innocenzi”, Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Bio-Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Fiorini Hospital, Polo Pontino, 04019 Terracina, Italy; (N.S.); (N.B.); (E.T.); (V.B.); (A.M.); (S.M.); (S.V.); (A.M.); (P.M.); (C.P.)
| | - Alessandra Mambrin
- Dermatology Unit “Daniele Innocenzi”, Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Bio-Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Fiorini Hospital, Polo Pontino, 04019 Terracina, Italy; (N.S.); (N.B.); (E.T.); (V.B.); (A.M.); (S.M.); (S.V.); (A.M.); (P.M.); (C.P.)
| | - Giorgio Mangino
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (G.M.); (G.R.)
| | - Giovanna Romeo
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (G.M.); (G.R.)
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immune-Mediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizia Maddalena
- Dermatology Unit “Daniele Innocenzi”, Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Bio-Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Fiorini Hospital, Polo Pontino, 04019 Terracina, Italy; (N.S.); (N.B.); (E.T.); (V.B.); (A.M.); (S.M.); (S.V.); (A.M.); (P.M.); (C.P.)
| | | | - Concetta Potenza
- Dermatology Unit “Daniele Innocenzi”, Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Bio-Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Fiorini Hospital, Polo Pontino, 04019 Terracina, Italy; (N.S.); (N.B.); (E.T.); (V.B.); (A.M.); (S.M.); (S.V.); (A.M.); (P.M.); (C.P.)
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Reverse transcriptase inhibition potentiates target therapy in BRAF-mutant melanomas: effects on cell proliferation, apoptosis, DNA-damage, ROS induction and mitochondrial membrane depolarization. Cell Commun Signal 2020; 18:150. [PMID: 32933538 PMCID: PMC7493390 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-020-00633-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract Target therapies based on BRAF and MEK inhibitors (MAPKi) have changed the therapeutic landscape for metastatic melanoma patients bearing mutations in the BRAF kinase. However, the emergence of drug resistance imposes the necessity to conceive novel therapeutic strategies capable to achieve a more durable disease control. In the last years, retrotransposons laying in human genome have been shown to undergo activation during tumorigenesis, where they contribute to genomic instability. Their activation can be efficiently controlled with reverse transcriptase inhibitors (RTIs) frequently used in the treatment of AIDS. These drugs have demonstrated anti-proliferative effects in several cancer models, including also metastatic melanoma. However, to our knowledge no previous study investigated the capability of RTIs to mitigate drug resistance to target therapy in BRAF-mutant melanomas. In this short report we show that the non-nucleoside RTI, SPV122 in combination with MAPKi strongly inhibits BRAF-mutant melanoma cell growth, induces apoptosis, and delays the emergence of resistance to target therapy in vitro. Mechanistically, this combination strongly induces DNA double-strand breaks, mitochondrial membrane depolarization and increased ROS levels. Our results shed further light on the molecular activity of RTI in melanoma and pave the way to their use as a novel therapeutic option to improve the efficacy of target therapy. Video Abstract
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Hou S, Guo M, Xi H, Zhang L, Zhao A, Hou H, Fang W. MicroRNA-153-3p sensitizes melanoma cells to dacarbazine by suppressing ATG5-mediated autophagy and apoptosis. Transl Cancer Res 2020; 9:5626-5636. [PMID: 35117926 PMCID: PMC8798736 DOI: 10.21037/tcr-20-2660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dacarbazine is one of the most commonly used chemotherapeutic agents for the treatment of melanoma; however, only 5-10% of patients benefit from this treatment. MicroRNA-153-3p (miR-153-3p) has a tumor-suppressive effect in melanoma. In the present study, we found that miR-153-3p was downregulated in melanoma cell lines (A357 and M14). METHODS The target relationship between miR-153-3p and Autophagy-related gene 5 (ATG5) was confirmed by Dual-Luciferase Reporter Assay. Cell Counting Kit-8, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, and Western blot were used to examine cell viability, apoptosis, and autophagy, respectively. RESULTS miR-153-3p overexpression decreased the half-maximal inhibitory concentration value of dacarbazine, while increasing the apoptotic rate in both A357 and M14 cells. Moreover, miR-153-3p enhanced dacarbazine-induced autophagy in melanoma cells. Our bioinformatics study revealed that ATG5 is one of the potential targets of miR-153-3p. The overexpression of ATG5 decreased dacarbazine sensitivity and promoted proliferation, as well as inhibited apoptosis and autophagy in melanoma cells. miR-153-3p exhibited suppressive effects via directly binding and downregulating ATG5 expression, which subsequently increased sensitivity to dacarbazine and inhibited proliferation, and enhanced apoptosis and autophagy in melanoma cells. CONCLUSIONS The results of the present study showed that miR-153-3p sensitizes melanoma cells to dacarbazine by suppressing ATG5-mediated autophagy and apoptosis, and provided a basis to explore the functions of miRNAs on drug resistance in the treatment of melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaowei Hou
- Medical College of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, China
| | - Minfang Guo
- Medical College of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, China
| | - Haiying Xi
- Department of Dermatological, The Fifth People’s Hospital of Datong, Datong, China
| | - Lianqing Zhang
- Department of Dermatological, The Fifth People’s Hospital of Datong, Datong, China
| | - Ailing Zhao
- Department of Neurology, The Fifth People’s Hospital of Datong, Datong, China
| | - Heng Hou
- Medical College of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, China
| | - Wuning Fang
- Department of Dermatology, Xi’an International Medical Center Hospital, Xi’an, China
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Khan AQ, Ahmad F, Raza SS, Zarif L, Siveen KS, Sher G, Agha MV, Rashid K, Kulinski M, Buddenkotte J, Uddin S, Steinhoff M. Role of non-coding RNAs in the progression and resistance of cutaneous malignancies and autoimmune diseases. Semin Cancer Biol 2020; 83:208-226. [PMID: 32717336 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2020.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 06/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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MicroRNAs as Key Players in Melanoma Cell Resistance to MAPK and Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21124544. [PMID: 32604720 PMCID: PMC7352536 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21124544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Advances in the use of targeted and immune therapies have revolutionized the clinical management of melanoma patients, prolonging significantly their overall and progression-free survival. However, both targeted and immune therapies suffer limitations due to genetic mutations and epigenetic modifications, which determine a great heterogeneity and phenotypic plasticity of melanoma cells. Acquired resistance of melanoma patients to inhibitors of BRAF (BRAFi) and MEK (MEKi), which block the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, limits their prolonged use. On the other hand, immune checkpoint inhibitors improve the outcomes of patients in only a subset of them and the molecular mechanisms underlying lack of responses are under investigation. There is growing evidence that altered expression levels of microRNAs (miRNA)s induce drug-resistance in tumor cells and that restoring normal expression of dysregulated miRNAs may re-establish drug sensitivity. However, the relationship between specific miRNA signatures and acquired resistance of melanoma to MAPK and immune checkpoint inhibitors is still limited and not fully elucidated. In this review, we provide an updated overview of how miRNAs induce resistance or restore melanoma cell sensitivity to mitogen-activated protein kinase inhibitors (MAPKi) as well as on the relationship existing between miRNAs and immune evasion by melanoma cell resistant to MAPKi.
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Grzywa TM, Klicka K, Paskal W, Dudkiewicz J, Wejman J, Pyzlak M, Włodarski PK. miR-410-3p is induced by vemurafenib via ER stress and contributes to resistance to BRAF inhibitor in melanoma. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0234707. [PMID: 32555626 PMCID: PMC7299409 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0234707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite significant development of melanoma therapies, death rates remain high. MicroRNAs, controlling posttranscriptionally gene expression, play role in development of resistance to BRAF inhibitors. The aim of the study was to assess the role of miR-410-3p in response to vemurafenib-BRAF inhibitor. FFPE tissue samples of 12 primary nodular melanomas were analyzed. With the use of Laser Capture Microdissection, parts of tumor, transient tissue, and adjacent healthy tissue were separated. In vitro experiments were conducted on human melanoma cell lines A375, G361, and SK-MEL1. IC50s of vemurafenib were determined using MTT method. Cells were transfected with miR-410-3p mimic, anti-miR-410-3p and their non-targeting controls. ER stress was induced by thapsigargin. Expression of isolated RNA was determined using qRT-PCR. We have found miR-410-3p is downregulated in melanoma tissues. Its expression is induced by vemurafenib in melanoma cells. Upregulation of miR-410-3p level increased melanoma cells resistance to vemurafenib, while its inhibition led to the decrease of resistance. Induction of ER stress increased the level of miR-410-3p. miR-410-3p upregulated the expression of AXL in vitro and correlated with markers of invasive phenotype in starBase. The study shows a novel mechanism of melanoma resistance. miR-410-3p is induced by vemurafenib in melanoma cells via ER stress. It drives switching to the invasive phenotype that leads to the response and resistance to BRAF inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz M. Grzywa
- Department of Methodology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Immunology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Klaudia Klicka
- Department of Methodology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Wiktor Paskal
- Department of Methodology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Julia Dudkiewicz
- Department of Methodology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jarosław Wejman
- Department of Pathology, Medical Center of Postgraduate Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Michał Pyzlak
- Department of Pathology, Medical Center of Postgraduate Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Paweł K. Włodarski
- Department of Methodology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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Fattore L, Campani V, Ruggiero CF, Salvati V, Liguoro D, Scotti L, Botti G, Ascierto PA, Mancini R, De Rosa G, Ciliberto G. In Vitro Biophysical and Biological Characterization of Lipid Nanoparticles Co-Encapsulating Oncosuppressors miR-199b-5p and miR-204-5p as Potentiators of Target Therapy in Metastatic Melanoma. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E1930. [PMID: 32178301 PMCID: PMC7139872 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21061930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Uncontrolled MAPK signaling is the main oncogenic driver in metastatic melanomas bearing mutations in BRAF kinase. These tumors are currently treated with the combination of BRAF/MEK inhibitors (MAPKi), but this therapy is plagued by drug resistance. In this context we recently discovered that several microRNAs are involved in the development of drug resistance. In particular miR-204-5p and miR-199b-5p were found to function as antagonists of resistance because their enforced overexpression is able to inhibit melanoma cell growth in vitro either alone or in combination with MAPKi. However, the use of miRNAs in therapy is hampered by their rapid degradation in serum and biological fluids, as well as by the poor intracellular uptake. Here, we developed lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) encapsulating miR-204-5p, miR-199b-5p individually or in combination. We obtained LNPs with mean diameters < 200 nm and high miRNA encapsulation efficiency. These formulations were tested in vitro on several melanoma cell lines sensitive to MAPKi or rendered drug resistant. Our results show that LNPs encapsulating combinations of the two oncosuppressor miRNAs are highly efficient in impairing melanoma cell proliferation and viability, affect key signaling pathways involved in melanoma cell survival, and potentiate the efficacy of drugs inhibiting BRAF and MEK. These results warrant further assessment of the anti-tumor efficacy of oncosuppressor miRNAs encapsulating LNPs in in vivo tumor models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Fattore
- Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS, "Fondazione G. Pascale", 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.F.); (G.B.); (P.A.A.)
| | - Virginia Campani
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (V.C.); (L.S.); (G.D.R.)
| | - Ciro Francesco Ruggiero
- IRCCS, Istituto Nazionale Tumori “Regina Elena”, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144 Rome, Italy; (C.F.R.); (V.S.)
| | - Valentina Salvati
- IRCCS, Istituto Nazionale Tumori “Regina Elena”, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144 Rome, Italy; (C.F.R.); (V.S.)
| | - Domenico Liguoro
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Roma “Sapienza”, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.L.); (R.M.)
| | - Lorena Scotti
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (V.C.); (L.S.); (G.D.R.)
| | - Gerardo Botti
- Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS, "Fondazione G. Pascale", 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.F.); (G.B.); (P.A.A.)
| | - Paolo Antonio Ascierto
- Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS, "Fondazione G. Pascale", 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.F.); (G.B.); (P.A.A.)
| | - Rita Mancini
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Roma “Sapienza”, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.L.); (R.M.)
| | - Giuseppe De Rosa
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (V.C.); (L.S.); (G.D.R.)
| | - Gennaro Ciliberto
- IRCCS, Istituto Nazionale Tumori “Regina Elena”, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144 Rome, Italy; (C.F.R.); (V.S.)
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Neagu M, Constantin C, Cretoiu SM, Zurac S. miRNAs in the Diagnosis and Prognosis of Skin Cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:71. [PMID: 32185171 PMCID: PMC7058916 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Skin cancer is, at present, the most common type of malignancy in the Caucasian population. Its incidence has increased rapidly in the last decade for both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer. Differential expression profiles of microRNAs (miRNAs) have been reported for a variety of different cancers, including skin cancers. Since miRNAs’ discovery as regulators of gene expression, their importance grew in the field of oncology. miRNAs can post-transcriptionally regulate gene expression, tumor initiation, development progression, and aggressiveness. Nowadays, these short regulatory RNAs are perceived as one of the epigenetic markers for the identification of new diagnostic and/or prognostic molecular markers. Moreover, as miRNAs can drive tumorigenesis, they might eventually represent new therapy targets. Some miRNAs are pleiotropic, such as miR-214, which was found deregulated in several other tumors besides skin cancers. Some others are specific for one or more skin cancer types, like miR-21 and miR-221 for cutaneous melanoma and cutaneous squamous carcinoma or miR-155 for melanoma and cutaneous lymphoma. The goal of this review was to summarize some of the main miRNA detection technologies that are used to evaluate miRNAs in tissues and body fluids. Furthermore, their quantification limits, conformity, and robustness are discussed. Aberrant miRNA expression is analyzed for cutaneous melanoma, cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC), skin lymphomas, cutaneous lymphoma, and Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). In this type of disease, miRNAs are described as potential biomarkers to diagnose early lesion and/or early metastatic disease. In the future, whether in tissue or circulating in body fluids, miRNAs will gain their place in skin cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and future therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Neagu
- Immunology Laboratory, "Victor Babeş" National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania.,Doctoral School, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Pathology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Carolina Constantin
- Immunology Laboratory, "Victor Babeş" National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Pathology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Sanda Maria Cretoiu
- Division of Cell and Molecular Biology and Histology, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Sabina Zurac
- Department of Pathology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Pathology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
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microRNA-378a-5p iS a novel positive regulator of melanoma progression. Oncogenesis 2020; 9:22. [PMID: 32060259 PMCID: PMC7021836 DOI: 10.1038/s41389-020-0203-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Evaluating the expression levels of miR-378a-5p both in a large melanoma patient cohort from The Cancer Genome Atlas database and in melanoma patients from our Institute, we found that miR-378a-5p is upregulated in metastatic melanoma specimens. miR-378a-5p expression was also increased in melanoma cells resistant to target therapy, and decreased in response to drug treatment. We also demonstrated that overexpression of miR-378a-5p enhances in vitro cell invasion and migration, and facilitates the ability of melanoma cells to form de novo vasculogenic structures. While performing downstream targeting studies, we confirmed the ability of miR-378a-5p to modulate the expression of known target genes, such as SUFU, FUS-1, and KLF9. Luciferase-3′UTR experiments also identified STAMBP and HOXD10 as new miR-378a-5p target genes. MMP2 and uPAR, two HOXD10 target genes, were positively regulated by miR-378a-5p. Genetic and pharmacologic approaches inhibiting uPAR expression and activity evidenced that the in vitro tumor-promoting functions of miR-378a-5p, were in part mediated by uPAR. Of note miR-378a-5p was also able to increase VEGF, as well as in vitro and in vivo angiogenesis. Finally, genetic and pharmacologic modulation of Bcl-2 evidenced Bcl-2 ability to regulate miR-378a-5p expression. In conclusion, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first study demonstrating that miR-378a-5p acts as an oncogenic microRNA in melanoma.
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