Histone deacetylase-3 mediates positive feedback relationship between anaphylaxis and tumor metastasis

HDAC6-MYCN-CXCL3 axis mediates allergic inflammation and is necessary for allergic inflammation-promoted cellular interactions

Histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) has been shown to play an important role in allergic inflammation. This study hypothesized that novel downstream targets of HDAC6 would mediate allergic inflammation. Experiments employing HDAC6 knock out C57BL/6 mice showed that HDAC6 mediated passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) and passive systemic anaphylaxis (PSA). Antigen stimulation increased expression of N-myc (MYCN) and CXCL3 in an HDAC6-dependent manner in the bone marrow-derived mast cells. MYCN and CXCL3 were necessary for both PCA and PSA. The role of early growth response 3 (EGR3) in the regulation of HDAC6 expression has been reported. ChIP assays showed EGR3 as a direct regulator of MYCN. miR-34a-5p was predicted to be a negative regulator of MYCN. Luciferase activity assays showed miR-34a-5p as a direct regulator of MYCN. miR-34a-5p mimic negatively regulated PCA and PSA. MYCN decreased miR-34a-5p expression in antigen-stimulated rat basophilic leukemia cells (RBL2H3). MYCN was shown to bind to the promoter sequence of CXCL3. In an IgE-independent manner, recombinant CXCL3 protein increased expression of HDAC6, MYCN, and β-hexosaminidase activity in RBL2H3 cells. Mouse recombinant CXCL3 protein enhanced the angiogenic potential of the culture medium of RBL2H3. CXCL3 was necessary for the enhanced angiogenic potential of the culture medium of antigen-stimulated RBL2H3. The culture medium of RBL2H3 was able to induce M2 macrophage polarization in a CXCL3-dependent manner. Recombinant CXCL3 protein also increased the expression of markers of M2 macrophage. Thus, the identification of the novel role of HDAC6-MYCN-CXCL3 axis can help better understand the pathogenesis of anaphylaxis.

The Crosstalk between FcεRI and Sphingosine Signaling in Allergic Inflammation

Sphingolipid molecules have recently attracted attention as signaling molecules in allergic inflammation diseases. Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is synthesized by two isoforms of sphingosine kinases (SPHK 1 and SPHK2) and is known to be involved in various cellular processes. S1P levels reportedly increase in allergic inflammatory diseases, such as asthma and anaphylaxis. FcεRI signaling is necessary for allergic inflammation as it can activate the SPHKs and increase the S1P level; once S1P is secreted, it can bind to the S1P receptors (S1PRs). The role of S1P signaling in various allergic diseases is discussed. Increased levels of S1P are positively associated with asthma and anaphylaxis. S1P can either induce or suppress allergic skin diseases in a context-dependent manner. The crosstalk between FcεRI and S1P/SPHK/S1PRs is discussed. The roles of the microRNAs that regulate the expression of the components of S1P signaling in allergic inflammatory diseases are also discussed. Various reports suggest the role of S1P in FcεRI-mediated mast cell (MC) activation. Thus, S1P/SPHK/S1PRs signaling can be the target for developing anti-allergy drugs.

IFN-γ and LPS Induce Synergistic Expression of CCL2 in Monocytic Cells via H3K27 Acetylation

Background

Overexpression of CCL2 (MCP-1) has been implicated in pathogenesis of metabolic conditions, such as obesity and T2D. However, the mechanisms leading to increased CCL2 expression in obesity are not fully understood. Since both IFN-γ and LPS levels are found to be elevated in obesity and shown to be involved in the regulation of metabolic inflammation and insulin resistance, we investigated whether these two agents could synergistically trigger the expression of CCL2 in obesity.

Methods

Monocytes (Human monocytic THP-1 cells) were stimulated with IFN-γ and LPS. CCL2 gene expression was determined by real-time RT-PCR. CCL2 protein was determined by ELISA. Signaling pathways were identified by using epigenetic inhibitors and STAT1 siRNA. Acetylation of H3K27 was analyzed by Western blotting. The acetylation level of histone H3K27 in the transcriptional initiation region of CCL2 gene was determined by ChIP-qPCR.

Results

Our results show that the co-incubation of THP-1 monocytes with IFN-γ and LPS significantly enhanced the expression of CCL2, compared to treatment with IFN-γ or LPS alone. Similar results were obtained using primary monocytes and macrophages. Interestingly, IFN-γ priming was found to be more effective than LPS priming in inducing synergistic expression of CCL2. Moreover, STAT1 deficiency significantly suppressed this synergy for CCL2 expression. Mechanistically, we showed that IFN-γ priming induced acetylation of lysine 27 on histone 3 (H3K27ac) in THP-1 cells. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay followed by qRT-PCR revealed increased H3K27ac at the CCL2 promoter proximal region, resulting in stabilized gene expression. Furthermore, inhibition of histone acetylation with anacardic acid suppressed this synergistic response, whereas trichostatin A (TSA) could substitute IFN-γ in this synergy.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that IFN-γ, in combination with LPS, has the potential to augment inflammation via the H3K27ac-mediated induction of CCL2 in monocytic cells in the setting of obesity.

EGR3-HDAC6-IL-27 Axis Mediates Allergic Inflammation and Is Necessary for Tumorigenic Potential of Cancer Cells Enhanced by Allergic Inflammation-Promoted Cellular Interactions

The objective of this study was to investigate mechanisms of allergic inflammation both in vitro and in vivo in details. For this, RNA sequencing was performed. Early growth response 3 gene (Egr3) was one of the most highly upregulated genes in rat basophilic leukemia (RBL2H3) cells stimulated by antigen. The role of Egr3 in allergic inflammation has not been studied extensively. Egr3 was necessary for passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) and passive systemic anaphylaxis (PSA). Egr3 promoter sequences contained potential binding site for NF-κB p65. NF-κB p65 directly regulated Egr3 expression and mediated allergic inflammation in vitro. Histone deacetylases (HDACs) is known to be involved in allergic airway inflammation. HDAC6 promoter sequences contained potential binding site for EGR3. EGR3 showed binding to promoter sequences of HDAC6. EGR3 was necessary for increased expression of histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) in antigen-stimulated RBL2H3 cells. HDAC6 mediated allergic inflammation in vitro and PSA. TargetScan analysis predicted that miR-182-5p was a negative regulator of EGR3. Luciferase activity assay confirmed that miR-182-5p was a direct regulator of EGR3. MiR-182-5p mimic inhibited allergic inflammation both in vitro and in vivo. Cytokine array showed that HDAC6 was necessary for increased interleukin-27 (IL-27) expression in BALB/C mouse model of PSA. Antigen stimulation did not affect expression of EBI3, another subunit of IL-27 in RBL2H3 cells or BALB/C mouse model of PCA or PSA. IL-27 receptor alpha was shown to be able to bind to HDAC6. IL-27 p28 mediated allergic inflammation in vitro, PCA, and PSA. Mouse recombinant IL-27 protein promoted features of allergic inflammation in an antigen-independent manner. HDAC6 was necessary for tumorigenic and metastatic potential enhanced by PSA. PSA enhanced the metastatic potential of mouse melanoma B16F1 cells in an IL-27-dependent manner. Experiments employing culture medium and mouse recombinant IL-27 protein showed that IL-27 mediated and promoted cellular interactions involving B16F1 cells, lung macrophages, and mast cells during allergic inflammation. IL-27 was present in exosomes of antigen-stimulated RBL2H3 cells. Exosomes from antigen-stimulated RBL2H3 cells enhanced invasion of B16F1 melanoma cells in an IL-27-dependemt manner. These results present evidence that EGR3-HDAC6-IL-27 axis can regulate allergic inflammation by mediating cellular interactions.

MiR-154-5p-MCP1 Axis Regulates Allergic Inflammation by Mediating Cellular Interactions

In a previous study, we have demonstrated that p62, a selective receptor of autophagy, can regulate allergic inflammation. In the present study, microRNA array analysis showed that miR-154-5p was increased by antigen (DNP-HSA) in a p62-dependent manner in rat basophilic leukemia cells (RBL2H3). NF-kB directly increased the expression of miR-154-5p. miR-154-5p mediated in vivo allergic reactions, including passive cutaneous anaphylaxis and passive systemic anaphylaxis. Cytokine array analysis showed that antigen stimulation increased the expression of MCP1 in RBL2H3 cells in an miR-154-5p-dependent manner. Reactive oxygen species (ROS)-ERK-NF-kB signaling increased the expression of MCP1 in antigen-stimulated RBL2H3 cells. Recombinant MCP1 protein induced molecular features of allergic reactions both in vitro and in vivo. Anaphylaxis-promoted tumorigenic potential has been known to be accompanied by cellular interactions involving mast cells, and macrophages, and cancer cells. Our experiments employing culture medium, co-cultures, and recombinant MCP1 protein showed that miR-154 and MCP1 mediated these cellular interactions. MiR-154-5p and MCP1 were found to be present in exosomes of RBL2H3 cells. Exosomes from PSA-activated BALB/C mouse induced molecular features of passive cutaneous anaphylaxis in an miR-154-5p-dependent manner. Exosomes from antigen-stimulated RBL2H3 cells enhanced both tumorigenic and metastatic potentials of B16F1 melanoma cells in an miR-154-5p-dependent manner. Exosomes regulated both ROS level and ROS mediated cellular interactions during allergic inflammation. Our results indicate that the miR-154-5p-MCP1 axis might serve as a valuable target for the development of anti-allergy therapeutics.

Asthma-related inflammation promotes lung metastasis of breast cancer cells through CCL11-CCR3 pathway

BACKGROUND

Mechanisms that preclude lung metastasis are still barely understood. The possible consequences of allergic airways inflammation on cancer dissemination were studied in a mouse model of breast cancer.

METHODS

Balb/c mice were immunized and daily exposed to ovalbumin (OVA) from day 21. They were subcutaneously injected with 4T1 mammary tumor cells on day 45 and sacrificed on day 67. Lung metastases were measured by biophotonic imaging (IVIS® 200 Imaging System) and histological measurement of tumor area (Cytomine software). Effects of CCL11 were assessed in vivo by intratracheal instillations of recCCL11 and in vitro using Boyden chambers. CCR3 expression on cell surface was assessed by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

The extent of tumor metastases was significantly higher in lungs of OVA-exposed mice and increased levels of CCL11 expression were measured after OVA exposure. Migration of 4T1 cells and neutrophils was stimulated in vitro and in vivo by recCCL11. 4T1 cells and neutrophils express CCR3 as shown by flow cytometry and a selective CCR3 antagonist (SB-297006) inhibited the induction of 4T1 cells migration and proliferation in response to recCCL11.

CONCLUSIONS

Allergic inflammation generated by exposure to allergens triggers the implantation of metastatic cells from primary breast tumor into lung tissues plausibly in a CCL11-CCR3-dependent manner. This indicates that asthma related inflammation in lungs might be a risk factor for lung metastasis in breast cancer patients.

Homoharringtonine Inhibits Allergic Inflammations by Regulating NF-κB-miR-183-5p-BTG1 Axis

Homoharringtonine (HHT) is a drug for treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia. However, the role of HHT in allergic inflammations remains unknown. Mouse model of atopic dermatitis (AD) induced by 2, 4,-dinitroflurobenzene (DNFB) and anaphylaxis employing 2,4-dinitropheny-human serum albumin (DNP-HSA) were used to examine the role of HHT in allergic inflammations. HHT inhibited in vitro allergic reactions and attenuated clinical symptoms associated with AD. DNFB induced features of allergic reactions in rat basophilic leukemia (RBL2H3) cells. HHT suppressed effect of AD on the expression of Th1/Th2 cytokines. HHT inhibited passive cutaneous anaphylaxis and passive systemic anaphylaxis. MiR-183-5p, increased by antigen stimulation, was downregulated by HHT in RBL2H3 cells. MiR-183-5p inhibitor suppressed anaphylaxis and AD. B cell translocation gene 1 (BTG1) was shown to be a direct target of miR-183-5p. BTG1 prevented antigen from inducing molecular features of in vitro allergic reactions. AD increased the expression of NF-κB, and NF-κB showed binding to the promoter sequences of miR-183-5p. NF-κB and miR-183 formed positive feedback to mediate in vitro allergic reactions. Thus, HHT can be an anti-allergy drug. We present evidence that NF-κB-miR-183-5p-BTG1 axis can serve as target for development of anti-allergy drug.

miR-384-5p ameliorates neuropathic pain by targeting SCN3A in a rat model of chronic constriction injury

Objective: To explore the potential regulation mechanisms of miR-384-5p in Neuropathic pain (NP).Methods: Rat model of chronic constriction injury (CCI) was established to induce NP in vivo. NP levels were assessed using Withdrawal Threshold (PWT) and Paw Withdrawal Latency (PWL). qPCR and Western blotting were used to determine the relative expression of miR-384-5p and SCN3A. The inflammation response in spinal microglia cells was determined by ELISA assay. Immunofluorescence assay was used to demonstrate the co-localization of miR-384-5p with SCN3A in rat dorsal root ganglions (DRGs). The target genes of miR-384-5p were verified by dual-luciferase report assays.Results: In the current study, the miR-384-5p expression level was significantly downregulated in CCI rats when comparing to the sham group. In addition, miR-384-5p agomir significantly repressed mechanical allodynia and heat hyperalgesia in CCI rats. Meanwhile, the current study indicated miR-384-5p could decrease inflammation progress in spinal microglia cells incubated in lipopolysaccharide. Consistently, overexpression of miR-384-5p obviously depressed inflammation cytokine levels in CCI rats. Dual-luciferase reporter assays indicated that SCN3A is a target gene of miR-384-5p.Conclusion: miR-384-5p is a negative regulator in the development of neuropathic pain by regulating SCN3A, indicating that miR-384-5p might be a promising therapeutic target in the treatment of neuropathic pain.Abbreviations: CCI: Chronic constriction injury; ZEB1: Zinc finger E box binding protein-1; MAPK6: Mitogen-activated protein kinase 6; COX-2: cyclooxygenase-2.

The impact of microRNAs on alterations of gene regulatory networks in allergic diseases

Allergic diseases including asthma are worldwide on the rise and contribute significantly to health expenditures. Allergic diseases are prototypic diseases with a strong gene by environment interaction component and epigenetic mechanisms might mediate the effects of the environment on the disease phenotype. MicroRNAs, small non-coding RNAs (miRNAs), regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally. Functional single-stranded miRNAs are generated in multiple steps of enzymatic processing from their precursors and mature miRNAs are included into the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC). They imperfectly base-pair with the 3'UTR region of targeted genes leading to translational repression or mRNA decay. The cellular context and microenvironment as well the isoform of the mRNA control the dynamics and complexity of the regulatory circuits induced by miRNAs that regulate cell fate decisions and function. MiR-21, miR-146a/b and miR-155 are among the best understood miRNAs of the immune system and implicated in different diseases including allergic diseases. MiRNAs are implicated in the induction of the allergy reinforcing the Th2 phenotype (miR-19a, miR-24, miR-27), while other miRNAs promote regulatory T cells associated with allergen tolerance or unresponsiveness. In the current chapter we describe in detail the biogenesis and regulatory function of miRNAs and summarize current knowledge on miRNAs in allergic diseases and allergy relevant cell fate decisions focusing mainly on immune cells. Furthermore, we evoke the principles of regulatory loops and feedback mechanisms involving miRNAs on examples with relevance for allergic diseases. Finally, we show the potential of miRNAs and exosomes containing miRNAs present in several biological fluids that can be exploited with non-invasive procedures for diagnostic and potentially therapeutic purposes.

FcεRI-HDAC3-MCP1 Signaling Axis Promotes Passive Anaphylaxis Mediated by Cellular Interactions

Anaphylaxis is an acute and life-threatening systemic reaction. Food, drug, aero-allergen and insect sting are known to induce anaphylaxis. Mast cells and basophils are known to mediate Immunoglobulin E (IgE)-dependent anaphylaxis, while macrophages, neutrophils and basophils mediate non IgE-dependent anaphylaxis. Histone deacetylases (HDACs) play various roles in biological processes by deacetylating histones and non-histones proteins. HDAC inhibitors can increase the acetylation of target proteins and affect various inflammatory diseases such as cancers and allergic diseases. HDAC3, a class I HDAC, is known to act as epigenetic and transcriptional regulators. It has been shown that HDAC3 can interact with the high-affinity Immunoglobulin E receptor (FcεRI), to mediate passive anaphylaxis and cellular interactions during passive anaphylaxis. Effects of HDAC3 on anaphylaxis, cellular interactions involving mast cells and macrophages during anaphylaxis, and any tumorigenic potential of cancer cells enhanced by mast cells will be discussed in this review. Roles of microRNAs that form negative feedback loops with hallmarks of anaphylaxis such as HDAC3 in anaphylaxis and cellular interactions will also be discussed. The roles of MCP1 regulated by HDAC3 in cellular interactions during anaphylaxis are discussed. Roles of exosomes in cellular interactions mediated by HDAC3 during anaphylaxis are also discussed. Thus, review might provide clues for development of drugs targeting passive anaphylaxis.

MiR-135-5p-p62 Axis Regulates Autophagic Flux, Tumorigenic Potential, and Cellular Interactions Mediated by Extracellular Vesicles During Allergic Inflammation

The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between autophagy and allergic inflammation. In vitro allergic inflammation was accompanied by an increased autophagic flux in rat basophilic leukemia (RBL2H3) cells. 3-MA, an inhibitor of autophagic processes, negatively regulated allergic inflammation both in vitro and in vivo. The role of p62, a selective receptor of autophagy, in allergic inflammation was investigated. P62, increased by antigen stimulation, mediated in vitro allergic inflammation, passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA), and passive systemic anaphylaxis (PSA). P62 mediated cellular interactions during allergic inflammation. It also mediated tumorigenic and metastatic potential of cancer cells enhanced by PSA. TargetScan analysis predicted that miR-135-5p was a negative regulator of p62. Luciferase activity assay showed that miR-135-5p directly regulated p62. MiR-135-5p mimic negatively regulated features of allergic inflammation and inhibited tumorigenic and metastatic potential of cancer cells enhanced by PSA. MiR-135-5p mimic also inhibited cellular interactions during allergic inflammation. Extracellular vesicles mediated allergic inflammation both in vitro and in vivo. Extracellular vesicles were also necessary for cellular interactions during allergic inflammation. Transmission electron microscopy showed p62 within extracellular vesicles of antigen-stimulated rat basophilic leukemia cells (RBL2H3). Extracellular vesicles isolated from antigen-stimulated RBL2H3 cells induced activation of macrophages and enhanced invasion and migration potential of B16F1 mouse melanoma cells in a p62-dependent manner. Extracellular vesicles isolated from PSA-activated BALB/C mouse enhanced invasion and migration potential of B16F1 cells, and induced features of allergic inflammation in RBL2H3 cells. Thus, miR-135-5p-p62 axis might serve as a target for developing anti-allergy drugs.

Inhibition of NADPH Oxidase 4 (NOX4) Signaling Attenuates Tuberculous Pleural Fibrosis

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase [NOX] enzymes serve several hemostatic and host defense functions in various lung diseases, but the role of NOX4 signaling in tuberculous pleurisy is not well understood. The role of NOX4 signaling in tuberculous pleural fibrosis was studied using invitro pleural mesothelial cell (PMC) experiments and a murine model of Mycobacterium bovis bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) pleural infection. The production of NOX4 reactive oxygen species (NOX4–ROS) and the epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) in PMCs were both induced by heat-killed mycobacterium tuberculosis (HKMT). In cultured PMCs, HKMT-induced collagen-1 synthesis and EMT were blocked by pretreatment with small interfering RNA (siRNA) NOX4. Moreover, NOX4–ROS production and subsequent fibrosis were reduced by treatment with losartan and the toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) inhibitor TAK-242. The HKMT-induced EMT and intracellular ROS production were mediated by NOX4 via the activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling. Finally, in a BCG-induced pleurisy model, recruitment of inflammatory pleural cells, release of inflammatory cytokines, and thickened mesothelial fibrosis were attenuated by SiNOX4 compared to SiCon. Our study identified that HKMT-induced pleural fibrosis is mediated by NOX4–ERK–ROS via TLR4 and Angiotensin II receptor type1 (AT1R). There results suggest that NOX4 may be a novel therapeutic target for intervention in tuberculous pleural fibrosis.

Serum Nardilysin, a Surrogate Marker for Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition, Predicts Prognosis of Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma after Surgical Resection

PURPOSE

Few studies have investigated prognostic biomarkers in patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC). Nardilysin (NRDC), a metalloendopeptidase of the M16 family, has been suggested to play important roles in inflammation and several cancer types. We herein examined the clinical significance and biological function of NRDC in ICC.Experimental Design: We measured serum NRDC levels in 98 patients with ICC who underwent surgical resection in two independent cohorts to assess its prognostic impact. We also analyzed NRDC mRNA levels in cancerous tissue specimens from 43 patients with ICC. We investigated the roles of NRDC in cell proliferation, migration, gemcitabine sensitivity, and gene expression in ICC cell lines using gene silencing.

RESULTS

High serum NRDC levels were associated with shorter overall survival and disease-free survival in the primary (n = 79) and validation (n = 19) cohorts. A correlation was observed between serum protein levels and cancerous tissue mRNA levels of NRDC (Spearman ρ = 0.413; P = 0.006). The gene knockdown of NRDC in ICC cell lines attenuated cell proliferation, migration, and tumor growth in xenografts, and increased sensitivity to gemcitabine. The gene knockdown of NRDC was also accompanied by significant changes in the expression of several epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related genes. Strong correlations were observed between the mRNA levels of NRDC and EMT-inducing transcription factors, ZEB1 and SNAI1, in surgical specimens from patients with ICC.

CONCLUSIONS

Serum NRDC, a possible surrogate marker reflecting the EMT state in primary tumors, predicts the outcome of ICC after surgical resection.

Human Adipose Tissue-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Attenuate Atopic Dermatitis by Regulating the Expression of MIP-2, miR-122a-SOCS1 Axis, and Th1/Th2 Responses

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of human adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AdMSCs) on atopic dermatitis (AD) in the BALB/c mouse model. The AdMSCs attenuated clinical symptoms associated with AD, decreased numbers of degranulated mast cells (MCs), IgE level, amount of histamine released, and prostaglandin E2 level. Atopic dermatitis increased the expression levels of cytokines/chemokines, such as interleukin-5 (IL-5), macrophage inflammatory protein-1ß (MIP-1ß), MIP-2, chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 5 (CCL5), and IL-17, in BALB/c mouse. The AdMSCs showed decreased expression levels of these cytokines in the mouse model of AD. In vivo downregulation of MIP-2 attenuated the clinical symptoms associated with AD. Atopic dermatitis increased the expression levels of hallmarks of allergic inflammation, induced interactions of Fc𝜀RIβ with histone deacetylase 3 (HDAC3) and Lyn, increased ß-hexosaminidase activity, increased serum IgE level, and increased the amount of histamine released in an MIP-2-dependent manner. Downregulation of MIP-2 increased the levels of several miRNAs, including miR-122a-5p. Mouse miR-122a-5p mimic inhibited AD, while suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 (SOCS1), a predicted downstream target of miR-122a-5p, was required for AD. The downregulation of SOCS1 decreased the expression levels of MIP-2 and chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 13 (CXCL13) in the mouse model of AD. The downregulation of CXCL13 attenuated AD and allergic inflammation such as passive cutaneous anaphylaxis. The role of T cell transcription factors in AD was also investigated. Atopic dermatitis increased the expression levels of T-bet and GATA-3 [transcription factors of T-helper 1 (Th1) and T-helper 2 (Th2) cells, respectively] but decreased the expression of Foxp3, a transcription factor of regulatory T (Treg) cells, in an SOCS1-dependent manner. In addition to this, miR-122a-5p mimic also prevented AD from regulating the expression of T-bet, GATA-3, and Foxp3. Atopic dermatitis increased the expression of cluster of differentiation 163 (CD163), a marker of M2 macrophages, but decreased the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), a marker of M1 macrophages. Additionally, SOCS1 and miR-122a-5p mimic regulated the expression of CD163 and iNOS in the mouse model of AD. Experiments employing conditioned medium showed interactions between MCs and macrophages in AD. The conditioned medium of AdMSCs, but not the conditioned medium of human dermal fibroblasts, negatively inhibited the features of allergic inflammation. In summary, we investigated the anti-atopic effects of AdMSCs, identified targets of AdMSCs, and determined the underlying mechanism for the anti-atopic effects of AdMSCs.

MiR-384 inhibits the proliferation of colorectal cancer by targeting AKT3

Background

Growing evidence suggests that MiRNAs play essential roles in the initiation and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). The aberrant expression of miR-384 has been reported in some cancers. However, the role and mechanism of miR-384 in CRC proliferation remains unknown.

Methods

The expression of miR-384 was detected in CRC and their paired normal tissues by real-time PCR. In vivo and in vitro assays were conducted to confirm the role of miR-384 in the proliferation of CRC. Bioinformatics analysis, luciferase reporter assays, western blot and in vitro assays were used to confirm that AKT3 was the target gene of miR-384. Finally, Spearman’s correlation analyses was carried out to analyze the relationship between miR-384 expression and AKT3 expression in CRC.

Results

MiR-384 was down‑regulated in CRC tissues. The in vivo and vitro functional assays verified that the ectopic upregulation of miR-384 inhibited the proliferation of CRC and the inhibition of miR-384 promoted the proliferation of CRC. Bioinformatics analysis, luciferase reporter assays, western blot and in vitro functional assays confirmed AKT3 as the target gene of miR-384. The expression of miR-384 was negatively correlated with the expressions of AKT3.

Conclusion

Our study verified that miR-384 could significantly suppress the proliferation of CRC by directing targeting AKT3.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12935-018-0628-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

MicroRNA-384 inhibits the progression of breast cancer by targeting ACVR1

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in females worldwide. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) accounts for 15% of all breast cancer cases and has a poorer prognosis than other subtypes. Moreover, the treatment for breast cancer, especially for TNBC, remains unsatisfactory. Therefore, novel therapies are urgently needed. Microribonucleic acids (miRNAs) are a class of biomarkers and therapeutic targets in many types of cancers. In the present study, the expression of miR-384 was explored in GSE58606 and in fresh breast cancer tissues by qPCR. The results showed that miR-384 was decreased in breast cancer, especially in TNBC. The results of MTT, colony formation, soft agar, Transwell migration, wound healing and the tumorigenesis assay demonstranted that overexpression of miR-384 inhibited the proliferation and migration of breast cancer in vitro and in vivo; knockdown of miR-384 enhanced the proliferation and migration of breast cancer. In addition, luciferase assay showed that Activin A receptor type 1 (ACVR1) was a direct target of miR-384 and is involved in the inhibitory effects of miR-384 on breast cancer progression. Furthermore, this study indicated that ACVR1 activated the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in breast cancer. In conclusion, our findings revealed functional and mechanistic links between miR-384 and ACVR1 in the progression of breast cancer. miR-384 not only plays an important role in the progression of breast cancer, but has promise as a potential therapeutic target for breast cancer especially for TNBC.

MiR-384 inhibits human colorectal cancer metastasis by targeting KRAS and CDC42

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide. Metastatic progression is a primary factor contributing to lethality of CRC patients. However, the molecular mechanisms forming early local invasion and distant metastatic colonies are still unclear and the present therapeutic approaches for CRC are unsatisfactory. Therefore, novel therapies targeting metastatic invasion that could prevent tumor spreading and recurrence are urgently needed. Our study showed that the decrease of miR-384 was found in 83.0% (83/100) CRC patients. And low-leveled expression of miR-384 was closely correlated with the invasive depth, lymph node and distant metastasis of CRC. Overexpression of miR-384 could inhibit the invasive and migrating abilities of CRC cells in vitro and the metastatic potential in vivo. Luciferase assays showed that miR-384 repressed the expression of Kirsten Ras (KRAS) and Cell division cycle 42 (CDC42) by directly targeting their 3’-untranslated regions. There is functional and mechanistic relationship between miRNA-384 and KRAS, CDC42 in the invasion and metastasis of CRC. And our findings suggest that miR-384could be a potent therapeutic target for CRC. Restoration of miR-384 expression might provide novel therapeutic approach to the reduction of CRC metastasis.

MicroRNA-384 represses the growth and invasion of non-small-cell lung cancer by targeting astrocyte elevated gene-1/Wnt signaling

Dysregulation of microRNA (miRNA) expression is a critical event in the development and progression of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). miR-384 has been identified as a novel cancer-related miRNA in numerous cancers, but little is known about its role and functional mechanism in NSCLC. In this study, we found that miR-384 was significantly downregulated in NSCLC tissues and cell lines. The overexpression of miR-384 repressed the growth and invasion of NSCLC cells, whereas its suppression showed the opposite effect. Moreover, astrocyte elevated gene-1 (AEG-1) was identified as a target gene of miR-384. The overexpression of miR-384 significantly decreased AEG-1 expression and Wnt signaling, whereas its suppression promoted this pathway. Furthermore, miR-384 was inversely correlated with AEG-1 expression in NSCLC tissues. Additionally, restoration of AEG-1 expression in miR-384-overexpressing cells significantly reversed the antitumor effects of miR-384. Taken together, these results reveal that miR-384 represses the growth and invasion of NSCLC cells by targeting AEG-1. Our study suggest that miR-384 and AEG-1 may serve as potential targets for the diagnosis and treatment of NSCLC.

Effects of anticholinergic agent on miRNA profiles and transcriptomes in a murine model of allergic rhinitis

Anticholinergic agent, ipratropium bromide (IB) ameliorates symptoms of allergic rhinitis (AR) using neuroimmunologic mechanisms. However, the underlying molecular mechanism remains largely unclear. In the present study, 27 mice with AR induced by ovalbumin were randomly allocated to one of three groups: Model group, model group with IB treatment for 2 weeks, and model group with IB treatment for 4 weeks. Allergic symptoms were evaluated according to symptoms scores. Differentially expressed genes [microRNAs (miRNAs) and messenger RNAs (mRNAs)] of nasal mucosa were identified by microarray analysis. The expression levels of candidate genes were measured by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The data indicates that the symptoms scores in allergic mice were significantly reduced by IB treatment. In the nasal mucosa of allergic mice with IB treatment, 207 mRNAs and 87 miRNAs were differentially expressed, when compared with the sham group. IB treatment significantly downregulated the expression levels of interleukin-4Rα and prostaglandin D2 synthase, whereas the leukemia inhibitory factor, A20 and nuclear receptor subfamily 4, group A, member 1 expression levels were upregulated. Similarly, the expression levels of mmu-miR-124-3p/5p, −133b-5p, −133a-3p/5p, −384-3p, −181a-5p, −378a-5p and −3071-5p were significantly increased. RT-qPCR data further validated these mRNA and miRNA expression levels. Thus, IB treatment regulated expression of allergic immune-associated mRNAs and miRNAs of the nasal mucosa in allergic mice, which may be associated with ameliorated nasal allergic symptoms.

MicroRNA-384 Inhibits the Growth and Invasion of Renal Cell Carcinoma Cells by Targeting Astrocyte Elevated Gene 1

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are emerging as pivotal regulators in the development and progression of various cancers, including renal cell carcinoma (RCC). MicroRNA-384 (miR-384) has been found to be an important cancer-related miRNA in several types of cancers. However, the role of miR-384 in RCC remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to investigate the potential function of miR-384 in regulating tumorigenesis in RCC. Here we found that miR-384 was significantly downregulated in RCC tissues and cell lines. Overexpression of miR-384 significantly inhibited the growth and invasion of RCC cells, whereas inhibition of miR-384 had the opposite effects. Bioinformatic analysis and luciferase reporter assay showed that miR-384 directly targeted the 3′-untranslated region of astrocyte elevated gene 1 (AEG-1). Further data showed that miR-384 could negatively regulate the expression of AEG-1 in RCC cells. Importantly, miR-384 expression was inversely correlated with AEG-1 expression in clinical RCC specimens. Moreover, miR-384 regulates the activation of Wnt signaling. Overexpression of AEG-1 significantly reversed the antitumor effects of miR-384. Overall, these findings suggest that miR-384 suppresses the growth and invasion of RCC cells via downregulation of AEG-1, providing a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of RCC.

miR-122-SOCS1-JAK2 axis regulates allergic inflammation and allergic inflammation-promoted cellular interactions

The regulatory role of suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 (SOCS1) in inflammation has been reported. However, its role in allergic inflammation has not been previously reported. SOCS1 mediated in vitro and in vivo allergic inflammation. Histone deacetylase-3 (HDAC3), a mediator of allergic inflammation, interacted with SOCS1, and miR-384 inhibitor, a positive regulator of HDAC3, induced features of allergic inflammation in an SOCS1-dependent manner. miRNA array analysis showed that the expression of miR-122 was decreased by antigen-stimulation. TargetScan analysis predicted the binding of miR-122 to the 3′-UTR of SOCS1. miR-122 inhibitor induced in vitro and in vivo allergic features in SOCS1-dependent manner. SOCS1 was necessary for allergic inflammation-promoted enhanced tumorigenic and metastatic potential of cancer cells. SOCS1 and miR-122 regulated cellular interactions involving cancer cells, mast cells and macrophages during allergic inflammation. SOCS1 mimetic peptide, D-T-H-F-R-T-F-R-S-H-S-D-Y-R-R-I, inhibited in vitro and in vivo allergic inflammation, allergic inflammation-promoted enhanced tumorigenic and metastatic potential of cancer cells, and cellular interactions during allergic inflammation. Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) exhibited binding to SOCS1 mimetic peptide and mediated allergic inflammation. Transforming growth factor- Δ1 (TGF-Δ1) was decreased during allergic inflammation and showed an anti-allergic effect. SOCS1 and JAK2 regulated the production of anti-allergic TGF-Δ1. Taken together, our results show that miR-122-SOCS1 feedback loop can be employed as a target for the development of anti-allergic and anti-cancer drugs.

The Hyaluronic Acid-HDAC3-miRNA Network in Allergic Inflammation

We previously reported the anti-allergic effect of high molecular weight form of hyaluronic acid (HMW-HA). In doing so, HA targets CD44 and inhibits FcεRI signaling and cross-talk between epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and FcεRI. We previously reported the role of histone deacetylases (HDACs) in allergic inflammation and allergic inflammation-promoted enhanced tumorigenic potential. We reported regulatory role of HA in the expression of HDAC3. In this review, we will discuss molecular mechanisms associated with anti-allergic effect of HA in relation with HDACs. The role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in allergic inflammation has been reported. We will also discuss the role of miRNAs in allergic inflammation in relation with HA-mediated anti-allergic effects.

MicroRNA-26a/-26b-COX-2-MIP-2 Loop Regulates Allergic Inflammation and Allergic Inflammation-promoted Enhanced Tumorigenic and Metastatic Potential of Cancer Cells

Cyclooxgenase-2 (COX-2) knock-out mouse experiments showed that COX-2 was necessary for in vivo allergic inflammation, such as passive cutaneous anaphylaxis, passive systemic anaphylaxis, and triphasic cutaneous allergic reaction. TargetScan analysis predicted COX-2 as a target of miR-26a and miR-26b. miR-26a/-26b decreased luciferase activity associated with COX-2-3'-UTR. miR-26a/-26b exerted negative effects on the features of in vitro and in vivo allergic inflammation by targeting COX-2. ChIP assays showed the binding of HDAC3 and SNAIL, but not COX-2, to the promoter sequences of miR-26a and miR-26b. Cytokine array analysis showed that the induction of chemokines, such as MIP-2, in the mouse passive systemic anaphylaxis model occurred in a COX-2-dependent manner. ChIP assays showed the binding of HDAC3 and COX-2 to the promoter sequences of MIP-2. In vitro and in vivo allergic inflammation was accompanied by the increased expression of MIP-2. miR-26a/-26b negatively regulated the expression of MIP-2. Allergic inflammation enhanced the tumorigenic and metastatic potential of cancer cells and induced positive feedback involving cancer cells and stromal cells, such as mast cells, macrophages, and endothelial cells. miR-26a mimic and miR-26b mimic negatively regulated the positive feedback between cancer cells and stromal cells and the positive feedback among stromal cells. miR-26a/-26b negatively regulated the enhanced tumorigenic potential by allergic inflammation. COX-2 was necessary for the enhanced metastatic potential of cancer cells by allergic inflammation. Taken together, our results indicate that the miR26a/-26b-COX-2-MIP-2 loop regulates allergic inflammation and the feedback relationship between allergic inflammation and the enhanced tumorigenic and metastatic potential.

Transglutaminase II/microRNA-218/-181a loop regulates positive feedback relationship between allergic inflammation and tumor metastasis

The molecular mechanism of transglutaminase II (TGaseII)-mediated allergic inflammation remains largely unknown. TGaseII, induced by antigen stimulation, showed an interaction and co-localization with FcϵRI. TGaseII was necessary for in vivo allergic inflammation, such as triphasic cutaneous reaction, passive cutaneous anaphylaxis, and passive systemic anaphylaxis. TGaseII was necessary for the enhanced metastatic potential of B16F1 melanoma cells by passive systemic anaphylaxis. TGaseII was shown to be a secreted protein. Recombinant TGaseII protein increased the histamine release and β-hexosaminidase activity, and enhanced the metastatic potential of B16F1 mouse melanoma cells. Recombinant TGaseII protein induced the activation of EGF receptor and an interaction between EGF receptor and FcϵRI. Recombinant TGaseII protein displayed angiogenic potential accompanied by allergic inflammation. R2 peptide, an inhibitor of TGaseII, exerted negative effects on in vitro and in vivo allergic inflammation by regulating the expression of TGaseII and FcϵRI signaling. MicroRNA (miR)-218 and miR-181a, decreased during allergic inflammation, were predicted as negative regulators of TGaseII by microRNA array and TargetScan analysis. miR-218 and miR-181a formed a negative feedback loop with TGaseII and regulated the in vitro and in vivo allergic inflammation. TGaseII was necessary for the interaction between mast cells and macrophages during allergic inflammation. Mast cells and macrophages, activated during allergic inflammation, were responsible for the enhanced metastatic potential of tumor cells that are accompanied by allergic inflammation. In conclusion, the TGaseII/miR-218/-181a feedback loop can be employed for the development of anti-allergy therapeutics.