Up-regulation of SNHG6 activates SERPINH1 expression by competitive binding to miR-139-5p to promote hepatocellular carcinoma progression

SERPINH1 secretion by cancer-associated fibroblasts promotes hepatocellular carcinoma malignancy through SENP3-mediated SP1/SQLE pathway

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have garnered significant attention due to their ability to shape the tumor microenvironment, thereby facilitating tumor progression and metastasis. Serpin peptidase inhibitor clade H member 1 (SERPINH1) is known for its role in the proper folding and secretion of collagen. However, its biological significance in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unclear. We observed higher levels of SERPINH1 in the conditioned medium (CM) of CAFs compared to normal fibroblasts (NFs) via ELISA assays. To investigate its impact on HCC, we knocked down SERPINH1 in CAFs by shRNA, which led to a notable reduction in HCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion induced by CM of CAFs, measured by colony formation and Transwell assays. SERPINH1 also inhibited HCC cell apoptosis, decreased the percentage of cells arrested in the G0/G1 phase, and increased the proportion of cells in the S phase, which were detected by flow cytometry. We further performed co-injections of HepG2 cells liver orthotopic transplantation model with either shCtrl-CAFs or shSERPINH1-CAFs. Interestingly, the presence of shCtrl-CAFs significantly enhanced tumor-initiating capacity compared to HepG2 cells alone or when co-injected with shSERPINH1-CAFs. Mechanistically, CAFs-derived SERPINH1 activated the SENP3/SP1 signaling pathways, substantially promoting the growth of HCC cells. Notably, we found that the transcription factor SP1 directly binds to the SQLE promoter and activates its transcription via ChIP-qPCR assay. Inhibition of SP1 expression using the specific inhibitor plicamycin effectively reversed CAFs-derived SERPINH1-induced HCC growth in vivo. Collectively, our findings highlighted the pathological role CAFs-derived SERPINH1 played in driving malignant of HCC cells through the SENP3/SP1/SQLE signaling axis, which offered a explanation of how SERPINH1 promotes HCC progress. Besides, we also demonstrated that targeting SERPINH1 signaling shall be a promising direction to develop effective therapeutical strategies for anti-HCC clinical management.

HSP47 in human diseases: Navigating pathophysiology, diagnosis and therapy

Heat shock protein 47 (HSP47) is a chaperone protein responsible for regulating collagen maturation and transport, directly impacting collagen synthesis levels. Aberrant HSP47 expression or malfunction has been associated with collagen-related disorders, most notably fibrosis. Recent reports have uncovered new functions of HSP47 in various cellular processes. Hsp47 dysregulation in these alternative roles has been linked to various diseases, such as cancer, autoimmune and neurodegenerative disorders, thereby highlighting its potential as both a diagnostic biomarker and a therapeutic target. In this review, we discuss the pathophysiological roles of HSP47 in human diseases, its potential as a diagnostic tool, clinical screening techniques and its role as a target for therapeutic interventions.

Deciphering the prognostic role of endoplasmic reticulum stress in lung adenocarcinoma: integrating prognostic prediction and immunotherapy strategies

Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) is a critical factor influencing lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) progression and patient outcomes. In this study, we analyzed gene expression data from LUAD samples sourced from The Cancer Genomic Atlas and Gene Expression Omnibus databases. Utilizing advanced statistical methods including LASSO and Cox regression, we developed a ERS-associated signature (ERAS) based on ten ERS-related genes. This model stratified patients into high- and low-risk groups, with the high-risk group exhibiting decreased survival rates, elevated tumor mutational burden, and heightened chemotherapy sensitivity. Additionally, we observed lower immune and ESTIMATE scores in the high-ERAS group, indicating a potentially compromised immune response. Experimental validation through quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction confirmed the utility of our model. Furthermore, we constructed a nomogram to predict 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rates, providing clinicians with a valuable tool for personalized patient management. In conclusion, our study demonstrates the efficacy of the ERAS in identifying high-ERAS LUAD patients, offering promising implications for improved prognostication and treatment strategies.

Functional role of lncRNAs in gastrointestinal malignancies: the peculiar case of small nucleolar RNA host gene family

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play crucial roles in normal physiology and are often de-regulated in disease states such as cancer. Recently, a class of lncRNAs referred to as the small nucleolar RNA host gene (SNHG) family have emerged as important players in tumourigenesis. Here, we discuss new findings describing the role of SNHGs in gastrointestinal tumours and summarize the three main functions by which these lncRNAs promote carcinogenesis, namely: competing with endogenous RNAs, modulating protein function, and regulating epigenetic marking. Furthermore, we discuss how SNHGs participate in different hallmarks of cancer, and how this class of lncRNAs may serve as potential biomarkers in cancer diagnosis and therapy.

HCC-Related lncRNAs: Roles and Mechanisms

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) presents a significant global health threat, particularly in regions endemic to hepatitis B and C viruses, and because of the ongoing pandemic of obesity causing metabolic-dysfunction-related fatty liver disease (MAFLD), a precursor to HCC. The molecular intricacies of HCC, genetic and epigenetic alterations, and dysregulated signaling pathways facilitate personalized treatment strategies based on molecular profiling. Epigenetic regulation, encompassing DNA methyltion, histone modifications, and noncoding RNAs, functions as a critical layer influencing HCC development. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are spotlighted for their diverse roles in gene regulation and their potential as diagnostic and therapeutic tools in cancer. In this review, we explore the pivotal role of lncRNAs in HCC, including MAFLD and viral hepatitis, the most prevalent risk factors for hepatocarcinogenesis. The dysregulation of lncRNAs is implicated in HCC progression by modulating chromatin regulation and transcription, sponging miRNAs, and influencing structural functions. The ongoing studies on lncRNAs contribute to a deeper comprehension of HCC pathogenesis and offer promising routes for precision medicine, highlighting the utility of lncRNAs as early biomarkers, prognostic indicators, and therapeutic targets.

lncRNA SNHG9 enhances liver cancer stem cell self-renewal and tumorigenicity by negatively regulating PTEN expression via recruiting EZH2

Liver cancer stem cell (CSC) self-renewal and tumorigenesis are important causes of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence. We purposed to investigate the function of long noncoding RNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 9 (SNHG9) in liver CSC self-renewal and tumorigenesis in this study. Flow cytometry was carried out to separate CD133+ Populations and CD133- Populations from HCC cell lines. A combination of CD133+ cells and Matrigel matrix was subcutaneously injected to create the NOD-SCID mouse xenograft tumor model. Colony formation test and spheroids formation assay were carried out to clarify the impact of SNHG9 on the self-renewal of liver CSCs. RNA immunoprecipitation, RNA-pull down, and chromatin immunoprecipitation were performed on CD133+ cells to elucidate the mechanism of SNHG9 regulating PTEN expression. We found that SNHG9 was highly expressed in HCC clinical samples, HCC cells, and CD133+ cells. In vitro, interference with SNHG9 prevented the formation of colonies and spheroids in liver CSC cells and primary HCC cells. In vivo, interference with SNHG9 reduced the tumor volume and weight. SNHG9 could bind to EZH2, and SNHG9 interference suppressed EZH2 recruitment and H3K27me3 levels in the PTEN promoter region. In addition, SNHG9 inhibition promoted PTEN expression while having little impact on EZH2 levels. Interference with SNHG9 inhibited liver CSC self-renewal and tumorigenesis by up-regulating PTEN levels. In conclusion, by binding to EZH2, SNHG9 down-regulated PTEN levels, promoting liver CSC self-renewal and tumor formation, and exacerbating HCC progression.

Identification of a gene set that maintains tumorigenicity of the hepatocellular carcinoma cell line Li-7

The identification and development of therapeutic targets in cancer stem cells that lead to tumor development, recurrence, metastasis, and drug resistance is an important goal in cancer research. The hepatocellular carcinoma cell line Li-7 contains functionally different types of cells. Cells with tumor-forming activity are enriched in cancer stem cell-like CD13+CD166- cells and this cell population gradually decreases during culture in conventional culture medium (RPMI1640 containing 10% fetal bovine serum). When Li-7 cells are cultured in mTeSR1, a medium developed for human pluripotent stem cells, CD13+CD166- cells, and their tumorigenicity is maintained. Here, we sought to identify the mechanisms of tumorigenicity in this sub-population. We compared gene expression profiles of CD13+CD166- cells with other cell sub-populations and identified nine overexpressed genes (ENPP2, SCGN, FGFR4, MCOLN3, KCNJ16, SMIM22, SMIM24, SERPINH1, and TMPRSS2) in CD13+CD166- cells. After transfer from mTeSR1 to RPMI1640 containing 10% fetal bovine serum, the expression of these nine genes decreased in Li-7 cells and they lost tumorigenicity. In contrast, when these genes of Li-7 cells were forcibly expressed in cultures using RPMI1640 containing 10% fetal bovine serum, Li-7 cells maintained tumorigenicity. A metabolome analysis using capillary electrophoresis-mass spectrometry showed that two metabolic pathways, "Alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism" and "Arginine biosynthesis" were activated in cancer stem-cell-like cells. Our analyses here showed potential therapeutic target genes and metabolites for treatment of cancer stem cells in hepatocellular carcinoma.

LncRNA SNHG6 role in clinicopathological parameters in cancers

RNA sequencing has revealed that a substantial portion of the human genome undergoes transcription, yet a minimal fraction of these transcripts translates into proteins. LncRNAs, RNA molecules less than 200 nt in length, once deemed as transcriptional noise, have now emerged as crucial regulators of numerous cellular processes. This review focuses on the lncRNA SNHG6, aiming to elucidate its biogenesis, the pivotal roles it plays, and its mechanisms in facilitating the hallmarks of cancer. A comprehensive literature review and analysis were undertaken to delve into the biogenesis of SNHG6, its roles in cellular processes, and the mechanisms through which it contributes to the hallmarks of cancer. SNHG6 is a notable lncRNA, observed to be overexpressed in various cancer types; its perturbation has been linked to tumor progression, emphasizing its significance in oncogenesis. This lncRNA contributes to a range of cellular aberrations, influencing transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and epigenetic processes of mRNA, ultimately driving cancerous transformations. LncRNA SNHG6 serves as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target due to its association with tumorigenesis. Understanding its mechanism and role in cancer can pave the way for novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

Hub gene target of glioblastoma: LOX, SERPINH1 and TGFBI

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a malignant tumor. The long-term prognosis of the patients is poor. Therefore, it is of important clinical value to further explore the pathogenesis and look for molecular markers for early diagnosis and targeted treatment. Two expression profiling datasets [GSE50161 (GPL570 platform), GSE116520 (GPL10558 platform)] were respectively downloaded from the gene expression omnibus database. Volcano diagrams show the Differently expressed genes (DEGs) of GSE50161 and GSE116520. A Venn diagram revealed 467 common DEGs between the 2 datasets. Lysyl oxidase (LOX), serpin family H member 1 (SERPINH1) and transforming growth factor beta induced (TGFBI) were negatively correlated with the overall survival rate in patients with GBM. The hub genes are high in GBM tumor tissues. The relative expression levels of LOX, SERPINH1 and TGFBI were significantly higher in GBM samples, compared with the normal brain tissues groups. Bioinformatics technology could be a useful tool to predict progression of GBM and to explore the mechanism of GBM.LOX, SERPINH1 and TGFBI may be involved in the mechanism of the occurrence and development of GBM, and may be used as molecular targets for early diagnosis and specific treatment. DEGs identified using GEO2R. Functional annotation of DEGs using Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes and gene body pathway enrichment analysis. Construction of a protein-protein interaction network. The pathway and process enrichment analysis of the hub genes were performed by Metascape. Survival analysis was performed in gene expression profiling interactive analysis. Real-time fluorescent quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay was performed to verify. The animal model was established for western blot test analysis.

Prognostic and immunological role of SERPINH1 in pan-cancer

Background: The SERPINH1 gene plays a vital part in tumorigenesis and development, whereas its potential as an immunotherapy target is still unknown. Hence, this research aimed to probe the roles of SERPINH1 in human tumors.

Method: Using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) database, Oncomine, and SangerBox software, the pan-cancer expression of SERPINH1 and its correlation were systematically analyzed. SERPINH1 protein information was detected by the Human Protein Atlas (HPA) database and STRING database. The genomic alterations of SERPINH1 were studied using the c-BioPortal database. The influence of SERPINH1 on prognosis was analyzed using Kaplan–Meier plotter. The R package “clusterProfiler” was used for enrichment analysis to detect the role of SERPINH1. The TIMER2 database was used to further analyze the correlation between the immune cell infiltration score of TCGA samples and the expression of SERPINH1.

Results: SERPINH1 overexpression was related to worse survival status in pan-cancer. In addition, high expression of SERPINH1 was positively associated with tumor stage and poor prognosis. Moreover, SERPINH1 played an important role in tumor microenvironment and immune regulation. Our study revealed that SERPINH1 expression has a strong correlation with immune cell filtration, immune regulation, chemokines, and immune checkpoints.

Conclusion: Our research found that SERPINH1 was a risk factor and predictor of poor prognosis in various tumors. High expression of SERPINH1 may contribute to tumor immune-suppressive status. Also, SERPINH1 may become a potential immunotherapy target in pan-cancer.

Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells (BMSC)-Upregulated miR-139 Inhibited the Migration and Invasion of Breast Cancer Cells In Vitro

microRNAs exert a crucial impact on tumor biology. However, the biological effect of miR-139 on breast cancer cells remains unclear yet. Here we intend to clarify the effect and mechanism of miR-139 derived from BMSCs on the biological behavior of gastric cancer cells. Breast cancer cells were divided into BMSC group (mixed culture of BMSC and breast cancer cells 1:1), miR-139 mimics group, si-PXN group and control group followed by analysis of miR-139 level, cell activity by MTT assay and the targeted binding of miR-139 to PXN by luciferase reporter assay. In relative to control, miR-139 level was significantly declined in gastric cancer cells, while PXN level was elevated and associated with the prognosis. miR-139 was up-regulated by BMSCs or miR-139 mimics, thereby regulating EMT process through targeted inhibition of PCN, and ultimately inhibiting the activity of breast cancer cells. In conclusion, BMSC co-culture can inhibit PCN by up-regulating miR-139, thereby regulating EMT process and inhibiting breast cancer progression, implying that miR-139 and PXN could be used as therapeutic targets for metastatic breast cancer.

Long non-coding RNA small nucleolar RNA host genes: functions and mechanisms in hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors of the digestive system, with a high degree of malignancy. Although treatment methods are constantly improving, the mortality of patients is still very high, and the small nucleolar RNA host gene (SNHG) plays an important role in the occurrence and development of cancer. It can activate downstream signaling molecules by acting on microRNA and microRNA target genes, promote the proliferation, invasion, and migration of HCC cells, and provide a new molecular target for the treatment of HCC. At present, the molecular mechanisms of HCC remain unclear. In this study, the mechanism and signaling pathway of SNHG in HCC are reviewed, which provides a theoretical basis for the clinical treatment of HCC.

Splicing factor derived circular RNA circCAMSAP1 accelerates nasopharyngeal carcinoma tumorigenesis via a SERPINH1/c-Myc positive feedback loop

Background

Circular RNAs play an important role in tumor genesis and progression, but they have not been sufficiently studied in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

Methods

The circular RNA, circCAMSAP1, was screened in NPC cells by RNA sequencing analysis. The expression of circCAMSAP1 in NPC tissues was examined by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and in situ hybridization. Wound-healing, transwell, MTT and flow cytometry assays, and nude mouse tumor models were used to explore the effect of circCAMSAP1 on proliferation and metastasis of NPC in vitro or in vivo. The downstream proteins regulated by circCAMSAP1 were screened using mass spectrometry. The interaction between circCAMSAP1 and the SERPINH1 mRNA was identified using the circular RNA immunoprecipitation method and the luciferase reporter assay. The interaction between SERPINH1 and transcription factor c-Myc was verified through Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) and immunofluorescence. The effect of c-Myc on the generation of circCAMSAP1 was examined through RT-qPCR and chromatin immunoprecipitation. Finally, the splicing factors that promote the production of circCAMSAP1 were explored by RT-qPCR and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP).

Results

We found that circCAMSAP1 was highly expressed in NPC tissues and promoted NPC proliferation and metastasis. Additionally, circCAMSAP1 promoted SERPINH1 expression through improved SERPINH1 mRNA stability by binding to the 3′-untranslated region (3’UTR) of SERPINH1. Highly expressed SERPINH1 reduced the ubiquitination-degradation rate of c-Myc, causing increased tumorigenesis. Meanwhile, c-Myc, cooperating with splicing factor 10 (SRSF10), could also promote CAMSAP1 pre-mRNA transcription and back-splicing, forming a positive feedback of circCAMSAP1 production, resulting in the proliferation and metastasis of NPC.

Conclusions

Our findings revealed that circCAMSAP1 promotes NPC proliferation and metastasis by binding to the 3’UTR of SERPINH1, suggesting that the positive feedback of circCAMSAP1-SERPINH1-c-Myc may serve as a prognostic biomarker or therapeutic target in patients with NPC.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12943-022-01502-2.

MiR-29c inhibits the metastasis of oral squamous cell carcinoma and promotes its cell cycle arrest by targeting SERPINH1

Background

A large number of studies have shown that the imbalance of micro RNA (miRNA) and its target genes can promote the development of tumors. The purpose of this study was to investigate the biological role and molecular mechanism of serpin peptidase inhibitor clade H member 1 (SERPINH1) and its upstream regulator miR-29c in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Methods

The expression levels of SERPINH1 and miR-29c were detected by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and western blotting. The proliferation, apoptosis, metastasis, and cell cycle were detected by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, would healing assay, transwell assay, flow cytometry, and dual luciferase reporter assay.

Results

High expression of SERPINH1 was detected in patients with OSCC and it can be used as a prognostic biomarker for OSCC. Cell function experiments showed that silencing the expression of SERPINH1 inhibited the proliferation and migration of OSCC cells and caused cell cycle arrest at S phase. Bioinformatics analysis showed that there was a binding site between miR-29c and SERPINH1, indicating that miR-29c may regulate the expression of SERPINH1. In addition, miR-29c overexpression inhibited the proliferation and metastasis of OSCC cells, and the subsequent rescue experiment showed that SERPINH1 overexpression can reverse the inhibitory effect of miR-29c in OSCC cell proliferation, migration, apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest.

Conclusions

The miRNA, miR-29c can regulate the proliferation, migration, invasion, and cell cycle of OSCC cells by targeting SERPINH1.

The emerging landscape of long non-coding RNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common and aggressive cancers. HCC shows high prevalence and lethality caused by a variety of etiologic factors. However, the underlying mechanisms and the diagnostic markers identifying patients at risk in advance has not been entirely elucidated. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a subgroup of non-coding RNAs greater than 200 nucleotides in length with no protein-coding capability. With the progress in sequencing technologies and bioinformatic tools, the landscape of lncRNAs is being revealed. Numerous discoveries point out that lncRNAs participate in HCC carcinogenesis and metastasis through altering cell proliferation and invasion ability, apoptosis, and chemo- or radio-sensitivity. Moreover, lncRNA is easy to detect compared to the traditional diagnostic methods. This review summarizes the mechanisms of major lncRNAs in HCC discovered in recent years and lncRNAs as early diagnostic markers for HCC.

The Histone Variant MacroH2A1 Impacts Circadian Gene Expression and Cell Phenotype in an In Vitro Model of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. A foremost risk factor for HCC is obesity/metabolic syndrome-related non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which is prompted by remarkable changes in transcription patterns of genes enriching metabolic, immune/inflammatory, and circadian pathways. Epigenetic mechanisms play a role in NAFLD-associated HCC, and macroH2A1, a variant of histone H2A, is involved in the pathogenesis modulating the expression of oncogenes and/or tumor suppressor genes and interacting with SIRT1, which crucially impacts the circadian clock circuitry. Hence, we aimed to appraise if and how macroH2A1 regulated the expression patterns of circadian genes in the setting of NAFLD-associated HCC. We took advantage of an in vitro model of liver cancer represented by HepG2 (human hepatocarcinoma) cells stably knocked down for macroH2A1 and conducted whole transcriptome profiling and deep phenotyping analysis. We found up-regulation of PER1 along with several deregulated circadian genes, enriching several important pathways and functions related to cancer onset and progression, such as epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, cell cycle deregulation, and DNA damage. PER1 silencing partially mitigated the malignant phenotype induced by the loss of macroH2A1 in HCC cells. In conclusion, our findings suggest a modulatory role for the core circadian protein PER1 in liver carcinogenesis in the context of a lack of the macroH2A1 epigenetic and transcriptional landscape.

Identification of m6A methyltransferase-related lncRNA signature for predicting immunotherapy and prognosis in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methyltransferase has been shown to be an oncogene in a variety of cancers. Nevertheless, the relationship between the long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains elusive. We integrated the gene expression data of 371 HCC and 50 normal tissues from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Differentially expressed protein-coding genes (DE-PCGs)/lncRNAs (DE-lncRs) analysis and univariate regression and Kaplan–Meier (K–M) analysis were performed to identify m6A methyltransferase-related lncRNAs. Three prognostic lncRNAs were selected by univariate and LASSO Cox regression analyses to construct the m6A methyltransferase-related lncRNA signature. Multivariate Cox regression analyses illustrated that this signature was an independent prognostic factor for overall survival (OS) prediction. The Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) suggested that the m6A methyltransferase-related lncRNAs were involved in the immune-related biological processes (BPs) and pathways. Besides, we discovered that the lncRNAs signature was correlated with the tumor microenvironment (TME) and the expression of critical immune checkpoints. Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion (TIDE) analysis revealed that the lncRNAs could predict the clinical response to immunotherapy. Our study had originated a prognostic signature for HCC based on the potential prognostic m6A methyltransferase-related lncRNAs. The present study had deepened the understanding of the TME status of HCC patients and laid a theoretical foundation for the choice of immunotherapy.

LncRNA SNHG6/miR-125b-5p/BMPR1B Axis: A New Therapeutic Target for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Background

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a significant cause of patient morbidity. The exactly pathobiological features of this condition has yet to be completely elucidated.

Methods

Breast cancer data obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database were evaluated for lncRNA SNHG6 expression. Normal human breast epithelial cell line (MCF-10A) and other breast cancer cell lines (BT-549, MDA-MB-231, Hs 578t, ZR-75-30, SK-BR-3, MCF-7) were also assessed for lncRNA SNHG6 expressions. Cellular proliferative ability was evaluated with colony formation and CCK-8 assays. The ability of cells to migrate was scrutinized with the wound healing and Boyden chamber cell migration assays. qRT-PCR enabled for detection of lncRNA SNHG6, miR-125b-5p and BMPR1B mRNA expressions. Protein BMPR1B expressions were further assessed using Western Blotting. Direct binding sites between transcripts were determined using dual-luciferase reporter assays. We also constructed a xenograft mouse model to further dissect the vivo implications of lncRNA SNHG6. Ki-67 and c-Caspase-3 expressions were detected using immunohistochemistry staining.

Results

Breast cancer cell lines demonstrated higher lncRNA SNHG6 expressions, particularly TNBC cell lines, in contrast to normal breast epithelial cell lines. This finding coincided with those noted on analysis of TCGA breast cancer data. lncRNA SNHG6 knockdown inhibited TNBC cell proliferation, migration, while promoted cell apoptosis. Furthermore, suppressed lncRNA SNHG6 expressions resulted in lower tumor weights and volumes in a xenograft mouse model, as evidenced by Ki-67 and c-Caspase-3 expression profiles in tumor tissues. miR-125b-5p and lncRNA SNHG6/BMPR1B both possessed direct binding sites for each other which was validated utilizing a dual-luciferase reporter assay. Decreasing lncRNA SNHG6 expression in TNBC cells upregulated miR-125b-5p expression. Another side, inhibiting miR-125b-5p upregulated BMPR1B expression in these cells. Moreover, knocking down lncRNA SNHG6 downregulated BMPR1B expression in TNBC cells, and the finding was rescued in cells which were exposed to miR-125b-5p inhibitor. Downregulating miR-125b-5p mitigated the effect of suppressing lncRNA SNHG6 on TNBC cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis.

Conclusion

Downregulation of lncRNA SNHG6 could inhibit TNBC cell proliferative, migratory capabilities and promote apoptosis capability, likely through modulation of the miR-125b-5p/BMPR1B axis. This axis may be targeted in formulating new therapies for TNBC.

LncRNA SNHG6 promotes G1/S-phase transition in hepatocellular carcinoma by impairing miR-204-5p-mediated inhibition of E2F1

Emerging evidence suggests that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) function as competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) targeting proteins and genes; however, the role of lncRNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is not well understood. We investigated the mechanism by which lncRNA SNHG6 promotes the development of HCC. RT-qPCR revealed upregulated lncRNA SNHG6 in the HCC setting. Elevated SNHG6 expression was indicative of poor prognosis in patients with HCC. SNHG6 overexpression resulted in increased cyclin D1, cyclin E1, and E2F1 expression both in vitro and in vivo. SNHG6 also promoted HCC cell proliferation by enhancing G1-S phase transition in vitro. Dual luciferase reporter assays, RIP, and RNA pull-down assays demonstrated SNHG6 competitively bound to miR-204-5p and inhibited its expression preventing miR-204-5p from targeting E2F1. Overexpression of miR-204-5p abolished the effect of SNHG6. Our data suggest that SNHG6 functions as a ceRNA that targets miR-204-5p resulting in an increased E2F1 expression and enhanced G1-S phase transition, thereby promoting the tumorigenesis of HCC.

The Impact of Long Non-Coding RNAs in the Pathogenesis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among the utmost deadly human malignancies. This type of cancer has been associated with several environmental, viral, and lifestyle risk factors. Among the epigenetic factors which contribute in the pathogenesis of HCC is dysregulation of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). These transcripts modulate expression of several tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes and alter the activity of cancer-related signaling axes. Several lncRNAs such as NEAT1, MALAT1, ANRIL, and SNHG1 have been up-regulated in HCC samples. On the other hand, a number of so-called tumor suppressor lncRNAs namely CASS2 and MEG3 are down-regulated in HCC. The interaction between lncRNAs and miRNAs regulate expression of a number of mRNA coding genes which are involved in the pathogenesis of HCC. H19/miR-15b/CDC42, H19/miR-326/TWIST1, NEAT1/miR-485/STAT3, MALAT1/miR-124-3p/Slug, MALAT1/miR-195/EGFR, MALAT1/miR-22/SNAI1, and ANRIL/miR-144/PBX3 axes are among functional axes in the pathobiology of HCC. Some genetic polymorphisms within non-coding regions of the genome have been associated with risk of HCC in certain populations. In the current paper, we describe the recent finding about the impact of lncRNAs in HCC.

LncRNA SNHG6 promotes breast cancer progression and epithelial-mesenchymal transition via miR-543/LAMC1 axis

PURPOSE

Breast cancer (BC) is the most prevalent cancer in women with an estimated incidence of 10% and the leading cause of mortality due to its heterogenous property and high metastasis rate. Development of novel therapy is very necessary and requires an understanding of molecular mechanisms. We investigated the function of SNHG6/miR-543/LAMC1 axis in BC.

METHODS

Human BC tissues were obtained from diagnosed patients. BC cell lines and normal breast cells were used. QRT-PCR and Western blotting were employed to measure expression levels of SNHG6, miR-543, LAMC1, EMT-related proteins, and PI3K/AKT pathway. Dual-luciferase assay was performed to validate interactions of SNHG6/miR-543 and miR-543/LAMC1. Colony formation assay, flow cytometry, scratch wound healing assay, and transwell assay were utilized to assess the proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion of BC cells. Nude mouse xenograft model was used the evaluate the function of SNHG6/miR-543 in tumor growth in vivo.

RESULTS

SNHG6 and LAMC1 were elevated, but miR-543 was reduced in BC tissues and cells. SNHG6 interacted directly with miR-543, while miR-543 targeted LAMC1. Knockdown of SNHG6 suppressed BC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, EMT, and PI3K/AKT pathway, but promoted cell apoptosis, while miR-543 inhibitor or overexpression of LAMC1 reversed those effects. Overexpression of LAMC1 also blocked the effects of miR-543 on BC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT. Knockdown of SNHG6 restrained BC growth in vivo, while miR-543 inhibitor inhibited that suppression.

CONCLUSION

SNHG6 promoted EMT and BC cell proliferation and migration by acting as a miR-543 sponge and disinhibiting LAMC1/PI3K/AKT pathway. SNHG6/miR-543/LAMC1 axis could serve as candidates for the development of therapeutic strategies for BC.

Bioinformatic Analysis of Key Genes and Pathways Related to Keloids

Background

The pathophysiology of keloids is complex, and the treatment for keloids is still an unmet medical need. Our study is aimed at identifying the hub genes among the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between normal skin tissue and keloids and key pathways in the development of keloids.

Materials and Methods

We downloaded the GSE92566 and GSE90051 microarray data, which contain normal skin tissue and keloid gene expression data. GSE92566 was treated as a discovery dataset for summarizing the significantly DEGs, and GSE90051 served as a validation dataset. Gene Ontology, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway, Reactome enrichment analysis, gene set enrichment analysis, and gene set variation analysis were performed for the key functions and pathways enriched in DEGs. Moreover, we also validated the hub genes identified from the protein-protein interaction network and predicted miRNA-hub gene interactions.

Results

117 downregulated DEGs and 204 upregulated DEGs in GSE92566 were identified. Extracellular and collagen-related pathways were prominent in upregulated DEGs, while the keratinization-related pathway was associated with downregulated DEGs. The hub genes included COL5A1, COL5A2, and SERPINH1, which were also validated in GSE90051.

Conclusion

This study identified several hub genes and provided insights for the underlying pathways and miRNA-hub gene interactions for keloid development through bioinformatic analysis of two microarray datasets. Additionally, our results would support the development of future therapeutic strategies.

LncRNA LINC00668 promotes cell proliferation, migration, invasion ability and EMT process in hepatocellular carcinoma by targeting miR-532-5p/YY1 axis

Liver cancer is now one of the most lethal and commonest cancers in the world, among which over 90% is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Recent studies have confirmed long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are implicated in carcinogenesis. It has been reported lncRNA LINC00668 serves as an oncogene in several cancers. However, the mechanism where LINC00668 regulates HCC is still unclear. qRT-PCR analysis was adopted to detect the expression of relative RNAs. Cytoplasmic and nuclear RNA fraction analysis was conducted to verify the underlying molecular mechanism. Cell colony formation was carried out to test cell colony formation ability and transwell assays were performed to testify cell migratory and invaded abilities. Relevant protein expression level was measured by Western blot assay. LINC00668 was significantly up-regulated in HCC tissues and cell lines. LINC00668 knockdown inhibited cell proliferative, migratory and invasion abilities and slowed down the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. Mechanistically, LINC00668 positively modulates the expression of YY1 by competitively binding to miR-532-5p. It was revealed that LINC00668 up-regulation accelerated cell proliferation and motility in HCC and suggested LINC00668 could be a potential therapeutic target for HCC.

LncRNA-SNHG6 promotes the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma by targeting miR-6509-5p and HIF1A

Background

Accumulating evidences have been reported that long noncoding RNAs play crucial roles in the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). SnoRNA host gene 6 (SNHG6) is believed to be involved in several human cancers, but the specific molecular mechanism of SNHG6 in HCC is not well studied.

Methods

In this study, we experimentally down-regulated the SNHG6 in two hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines in vitro, and then measured the proliferation, migration and invasion abilities and the apoptotic levels. Also, we performed the xenograft assay to investigate the function of SNHG6 during the tumor growth in vivo.

Results

We found SNHG6 was highly expressed in HCC tissues. Next, using Hep3B and Huh7 cells, we confirmed knockdown of SNHG6 reduced the proliferation, migration and invasion abilities in vitro. Also, by bioinformatics analysis, further molecular and cellular experiments, we found miR-6509-5p bound to SNHG6 directly, and the expression level of HIF1A was regulated through SNHG6/miR-6509-5p axis. Finally, we found that down-regulation of SNHG6 dramatically reduced the tumor growth ability of Huh7 cells in vivo.

Conclusions

We concluded that SNHG6/miR-6509-5p/HIF1A axis functioned in the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma, and could be the promising therapeutic targets during the development of hepatocellular carcinoma drugs.

Long non-coding RNA SNHG6 promotes tumorigenesis in melanoma cells via the microRNA-101-3p/RAP2B axis

Numerous studies have reported that the long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) small nucleolar RNA host gene 6 (SNHG6; ENSG00000245910) participates in the development of malignant tumors. However, the underlying mechanism of SNHG6 in the development of melanoma remains unknown. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the biological role of SNHG6 in the progression of melanoma. SNHG6 expression in melanoma tissues and cells was assessed using a bioinformatics approach and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR analysis. Cell viability was determined using the Cell Counting Kit-8 and colony formation assays. The correlation between microRNA (miR)-101-3p, SNHG6 and RAP2B expression levels was assessed using Pearson's correlation analysis. Bioinformatic analysis and luciferase reporter assay were utilized to confirm the interaction between miR-101-3p and SNHG6 or RAP2B. The Transwell assay was conducted to examine the migratory and invasive activities of melanoma cells. In the present study, SNHG6 expression was upregulated in melanoma tissues and cell lines, and SNHG6 silencing suppressed melanoma cell viability, migration and invasion. SNHG6 was directly bound to miR-101-3p, which interacted with RAP2B. In addition, miR-101-3p expression was negatively correlated with SNHG6 or RAP2B expression. miR-101-3p silencing partially abrogated the suppressive effect of SNHG6-knockdown on RAP2B expression. Moreover, the data demonstrated that RAP2B overexpression reversed the inhibitory effects on melanoma cell proliferation, migration and invasion induced by SNHG6 silencing. In conclusion, the present study identified that SNHG6 accelerated melanoma progression via regulating the miR-101-3p/RAP2B axis. Thus, the SNHG6/miR-101-3p/RAP2B signaling pathway may be a novel therapeutic target for melanoma.

Long noncoding RNA SNHG6 mainly functions as a competing endogenous RNA in human tumors

Increased expression of the small nucleolar RNA host gene 6 (SNHG6) has been reported in different cancers, such as hepatocellular carcinoma, colorectal cancer, and lung cancer. The high expression level of SNHG6 is associated with tumor progression and poor prognosis. This paper provides an overview of recent studies on the oncogenic role and potential clinical utilities of SNHG6. Upregulated SNHG6 arrests tumor cell cycle and reduces apoptosis but promotes migration, invasion, metastasis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and chemoresistance in tumors. Mechanically, SNHG6 primarily sponges tumor suppressor microRNA (miRNA), functioning as a competing endogenous RNA. Once sponged, miRNA is unable to degrade, silence, or hamper the translation of its downstream, mostly oncogenic genes, ultimately driving cancer-related processes. Thus, SNHG6 might serve as a biomarker for cancer diagnosis and prognosis.

Diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic significance of miR-139-5p in cancers

miRNAs are a group of non-coding RNAs that have regulatory functions in post-transcriptional gene expression. These molecules play a fundamental role in cellular processes, for instance cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion. Scientific investigations have previously established that miRNAs can either promote or suppress tumor development by mediating different signaling pathways. miR-139-5p, located on chromosome 11q13.4, has been examined extensively in cancers. Studies have demonstrated that miR-139-5p might be an attractive cancer biomarker. Herein, we will review how miR-139-5p acts in cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy, as well as elucidating its major target genes and associated signaling pathways.

Clinicopathological and prognostic value of SNHG6 in cancers: a systematic review and a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Dysregulation of the long non-coding RNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 16 (lncRNA SNHG6) has been found in multiple cancers. However, a definite conclusion on the clinical value of lncRNA SNHG6 expression in human cancers has not been determined. The purpose of the present meta-analysis was to comprehensively elucidate the association between SNHG6 expression and clinical outcomes in cancers.

METHODS

A systematic search was performed through the PubMed, Web of Science, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Wangfang databases for relevant studies. The pooled hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were collected to estimate the prognostic value, and the odds ratios (ORs) with 95% CIs were used to evaluate the relationship between lncRNA SNHG6 expression and clinicopathological features, including tumor invasion depth, lymph node metastasis (LNM), distance metastasis (DM), and TNM stage.

RESULTS

In total, 914 patients from 13 studies were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled results suggested that evaluated SNHG6 expression could predict an unfavorable overall survival (OS) (HR = 2.04, 95% CI:1.56-2.52) with no heterogeneity (I² = 0.0%, p = 0.996). Subgroup analysis indicated a significant association between high SNHG6 expression and shorter OS in those studies with digestive system cancers (HR = 2.05, 95% CI: 1.47-2.62), or with sample size < 70 (HR = 2.70, 95% CI: 1.29-4.11), or with multivariate analysis (HR = 2.04, 95% CI: 1.44-2.64). Moreover, elevated SNHG6 expression was positively associated with tumor invasion depth (OR = 1.76, 95% CI: 1.18-2.63), LNM (OR = 1.60, 95% CI: 1.18-2.17), DM (OR = 1.90, 95% CI: 1.37-2.64) and advanced TNM stage (OR = 1.88, 95% CI: 1.36-2.60) in patients with cancers.

CONCLUSIONS

High lncRNA SNHG6 expression was correlated with tumor invasion depth, LNM, DM, and advanced TNM stage, suggesting that SNHG6 may serve as a promising prognostic biomarker of human cancers.

Can small nucleolar RNA be a novel molecular target for hepatocellular carcinoma?

BACKGROUND

Globally, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related death. Recently, many studies have demonstrated that small nucleolar RNA (snoRNA) was closely related to HCC.

OBJECTIVE

To explore whether snoRNA can be used as a molecular target for HCC.

METHODS

The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases were searched for the published literatures related to snoRNA and HCC until August 12, 2019. After identification, screening, and verification, this study finally included 26 studies correlating small nucleolar RNA host gene (SNHG) and HCC, and 8 studies correlating snoRNA and HCC. Based on the collation of the relevant literature, the correlation network diagram between snoRNAs and HCC was constructed.

RESULTS

The SNHGs, such as SNHG1, SNHG6, SNHG16, and SNHG20 can play varied roles in HCC through different regulatory mechanisms. These SNHGs can promote and inhibit tumorigenesis. SNORD76 can promote the proliferation of tumor tissues and cells in vitro through different pathways. SnoU2_19 and SNORD76 can function through the same pathway. SNHG3, SNHG20, SNHG6, SNORD76, and snoRA47 can modulate epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) to regulate the development of HCC cell or tissue. SNHG16, SNORD76, and SnoU2_19 can regulate the development of HCC through Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

snoRNA can regulate the occurrence of HCC by modulating multiple molecular signaling pathways. Hence, snoRNA can be a potential molecular target for HCC.