LncRNA MALAT1 regulates trophoblast cells migration and invasion via miR-206/IGF-1 axis

MIR193BHG inhibits the proliferation, migration and invasion of trophoblasts by upregulating p53

Aberrant expression of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) serves a crucial role in the biological function of trophoblasts and contributes to preeclampsia (PE). lncRNA MIR193BHG expression is increased in PE placental tissues. In the present study, the effects of MIR193BHG on the function of trophoblasts were assessed to elucidate its underlying molecular mechanisms. The subcellular localization of MIR193BHG in HTR-8/SVneo human first-trimester extravillous trophoblast cells was determined using a fluorescent in situ hybridization assay and by conducting nucleocytoplasmic separation. The effect of MIR193BHG knockdown or overexpression on proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis was evaluated in vitro using Cell Counting Kit-8, wound healing, Transwell and flow cytometry assays. RNA-sequencing, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analysis and protein-protein interaction network construction were subsequently performed to screen the downstream molecules regulated by MIR193BHG. Finally, rescue experiments were conducted to ascertain whether MIR193BHG influenced the biological function of trophoblasts via p53. MIR193BHG was predominantly localized in the nucleus of HTR-8/SVneo cells and overexpression of MIR193BHG significantly inhibited proliferation, migration and invasion, while increasing the rate of apoptosis of HTR-8/SVneo cells. Knockdown of MIR193BHG had the opposite effect. Furthermore, overexpression of MIR193BHG led to increases in both mRNA and protein levels of p53 compared with the control group, and knockdown of p53 rescued the effects induced by overexpression of MIR193BHG on cell proliferation, migration and invasion, while partially counteracting its effects on apoptosis of HTR-8/SVneo cells. In conclusion, the findings of the present study suggested that MIR193BHG served a critical role in progression of PE by regulating the expression of p53, and may be a novel therapeutic target for PE.

Hierarchical lncRNA regulatory network in early-onset severe preeclampsia

BACKGROUND

Recent studies have shown that several long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the placenta are associated with preeclampsia (PE). However, the extent to which lncRNAs may contribute to the pathological progression of PE is unclear.

RESULTS

Here, we report a hierarchical regulatory network involved in early-onset severe PE (EOSPE). We have carried out transcriptome sequencing on the placentae from patients and normal subjects to identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs), including some lncRNAs (DElncRNAs). We then constructed a high-quality hierarchical regulatory network of lncRNAs, transcription factors (TFs), and target DEGs, containing 1851 lncRNA-TF interactions and 6901 TF-promoter interactions. The lncRNA-to-target regulatory interactions were further validated by the triplex structures between the DElncRNAs and the promoters of the target DEGs. The DElncRNAs in the regulatory network were clustered into 3 clusters, one containing DElncRNAs correlated with the blood pressure, including FLNB-AS1 with targeting 27.89% (869/3116) DEGs in EOSPE. We further demonstrated that FLNB-AS1 could bind the transcription factor JUNB to regulate a series members of the HIF-1 signaling pathway in trophoblast cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that the differential expression of lncRNAs may perturb the lncRNA-TF-DEG hierarchical regulatory network, leading to the dysregulation of many genes involved in EOSPE. Our study provides a new strategy and a valuable resource for studying the mechanism underlying gene dysregulation in EOSPE patients.

Deciphering the Epigenetic Landscape: Placental Development and Its Role in Pregnancy Outcomes

The placenta stands out as a unique, transitory, and multifaceted organ, essential to the optimal growth and maturation of the fetus. Functioning as a vital nexus between the maternal and fetal circulatory systems, it oversees the critical exchange of nutrients and waste. This exchange is facilitated by placental cells, known as trophoblasts, which adeptly invade and remodel uterine blood vessels. Deviations in placental development underpin a slew of pregnancy complications, notably fetal growth restriction (FGR), preeclampsia (PE), recurrent spontaneous abortions (RSA), and preterm birth. Central to placental function and development is epigenetic regulation. Despite its importance, the intricate mechanisms by which epigenetics influence the placenta are not entirely elucidated. Recently, the scientific community has turned its focus to parsing out the epigenetic alterations during placental development, such as variations in promoter DNA methylation, genomic imprints, and shifts in non-coding RNA expression. By establishing correlations between epigenetic shifts in the placenta and pregnancy complications, researchers are unearthing invaluable insights into the biology and pathophysiology of these conditions. This review seeks to synthesize the latest findings on placental epigenetic regulation, spotlighting its crucial role in shaping fetal growth trajectories and development. Through this lens, we underscore the overarching significance of the placenta in the larger narrative of gestational health.

Long non-coding RNAs: a summary of their roles in placenta development and pathology†

Long non-coding RNAs are cellular transcripts that have ˃200 nucleotides in length and do not code for proteins. Due to their low expression levels, long non-coding RNAs were previously considered as mere transcriptional noise. However, current evidence indicates that they regulate a myriad of biological processes such as cell proliferation, invasion, and apoptosis. Hence, their expression patterns are crucial indicators of the physiological or pathological states of cells, tissues, and organs. The utilization of long non-coding RNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for the clinical management of several diseases have been suggested. Gradually, long non-coding RNAs are gaining a substantial attention in the field of feto-maternal medicine. After embryo implantation, the interactions between the trophoblast cells from the embryo and the uterus of the mother facilitate placenta development and pregnancy progression. These processes are tightly regulated, and their impairments result in pregnancy pathologies such as miscarriage and preeclampsia. Accumulating evidence implicates long non-coding RNAs in these processes. Herein, we have summarized the roles of several long non-coding RNAs in human placenta development, have proposed some mechanisms by which they participate in physiological and pathological placentation, have revealed some knowledge deficits, and have recommended ideal experimental approaches that will facilitate the clarification of the mechanistic actions of each long non-coding RNA at the feto-maternal interface during healthy and pathological pregnancies.

Mechanistic actions of long non-coding RNA MALAT1 within the ovary and at the feto-maternal interface

Long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) are being unveiled as crucial regulators of several biological processes and pathways. Among the lncRNAs is metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1), which is also known as nuclear enriched abundant transcript 2 (NEAT2). MALAT1 is highly conserved in mammals, and controls cellular processes such as proliferation, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, and apoptosis in both physiological and pathological conditions. Roles of MALAT1 in the female reproductive system are gradually getting explored. Within the ovarian micro-environment, the physiological expression of MALAT1 potentially modulates folliculogenesis while its upregulation promotes the metastasis of epithelial ovarian cancers. Interestingly, women with polycystic ovary syndrome have been shown to exhibit aberrant ovarian expression of MALAT1 and this is believed to contribute to the development of the disease. At the feto-maternal interface, MALAT1 potentially promotes trophoblast development. While its placental downregulation is linked to the pathogenesis of preeclampsia, its placental upregulation is associated with placenta increta and placenta percreta. Hence, abnormal expression of MALAT1 is a candidate molecular biomarker and therapeutic target for the treatment of these obstetric and gynecologic anomalies. To enhance a quick uncovering and detailed characterization of the mechanistic actions of MALAT1 in the female reproductive system, we have highlighted some knowledge deficits and have recommended ideal experimental models to be employed in prospective investigations.

Interleukin-17A stimulation induces alterations in Microglial microRNA expression profiles

BACKGROUND

Increased maternal interleukin (IL)-17A and activated microglia are pivotal factors contributing to the pathological phenotypes of maternal immune activation (MIA), developing neurodevelopmental disorders in offspring. This study aimed to determine whether IL-17A affects the microglial microRNA (miRNA) profiles.

METHODS

The miRNA expression profiles of primary cultured microglia stimulated with recombinant IL-17A were examined comprehensively using miRNA sequencing and validated through qRT-PCR. The expressions of miRNAs target genes identified using bioinformatics, were investigated in microglia transfected with mimic miRNA. The target gene's expression was also examined in the fetal brains of the MIA mouse model induced by maternal lipopolysaccharide (LPS) administration.

RESULTS

Primary cultured microglia expressed the IL-17A receptor and increased proinflammatory cytokines and nitric oxide synthase 2 upon treatment with IL-17A. Among the three miRNAs with |log2FC | >1, only mmu-miR-206-3p expression was significantly up-regulated by IL-17A. Transfection with the mmu-miR-206-3p mimic resulted in a significant decrease in the expression of Hdac4 and Igf1, target genes of mmu-miR-206-3p. Hdac4 expression also significantly decreased in the LPS-induced MIA model.

CONCLUSIONS

IL-17A affected microglial miRNA profiles with upregulated mmu-miR-206-3p. These findings suggest that targeting the IL-17A/mmu-miR-206-3p pathway may be a new strategy for predicting MIA-related neurodevelopmental deficits and providing preventive interventions.

IMPACT

Despite the growing evidence of interleukin (IL)-17A and microglia in the pathology of maternal immune activation (MIA), the downstream of IL-17A in microglia is not fully known. IL-17A altered microRNA profiles and upregulated the mmu-miR-206-3p expression in microglia. The mmu-miR-206-3p reduced autism spectrum disorder (ASD) related gene expressions, Hdac4 and Igf1. The Hdac4 expression was also reduced in the brain of MIA offspring. The hsa-miR-206 sequence is consistent with that of mmu-miR-206-3p. This study may provide clues to pathological mechanisms leading to predictions and interventions for ASD children born to mothers with IL-17A-related disorders.

MicroRNA-206 Contributes to the Progression of Preeclampsia by Suppressing the Viability and Mobility of Trophocytes via the Inhibition of AGTR1

The development of preeclampsia (PE) is associated with the impaired trophoblast motility. MicroRNAs (miRs) contribute to the modulation of trophoblast invasion. In the current study, the role of miR-206/AGTR1 in the TNF-alpha-induced invasion defect of trophoblasts was explored. The levels of miR-206 and ATGR1 in clinical placenta tissues were investigated. Trophoblasts were treated with TNF-alpha, and the levels of miR-206 and ATGR1 were modulated. Changes in cell viability, invasion, and inflammation in trophoblasts were detected. The level of miR-206 was induced, while the level of AGTR1 was suppressed in placenta tissues. In in vitro assays, TNF-alpha suppressed viability, induced inflammatory response, inhibited invasion, upregulated miR-206, and down-regulated AGTR1. The inhibited expression of miR-206 or the overexpression of AGTR1 counteracted the effects of TNF-alpha, indicating the key role of the miR-206/AGTR1 in progression of PE. Collectively, miR-206 suppressed viability, induced inflammatory response, and decreased invasion of trophoblasts by inhibiting AGTR1.

The Role of ncRNAs in the Immune Dysregulation of Preeclampsia

The main complications causing practically 75% of all maternal deaths are severe bleeding, infections, and high blood pressure during pregnancy (preeclampsia (PE) and eclampsia). The usefulness of ncRNAs as clinical biomarkers has been explored in an extensive range of human diseases including pregnancy-related diseases such as PE. Immunological dysregulation show that the Th1/17:Th2/Treg ratio is "central and causal" to PE. However, there is evidence of the involvement of placenta-expressed miRNAs and lncRNAs in the immunological regulation of crucial processes of placenta development and function during pregnancy. Abnormal expression of these molecules is related to immune physiopathological processes that occur in PE. Therefore, this work aims to describe the importance of miRNAs and lncRNAs in immune dysregulation in PE. Interestingly, multiple ncRNAS are involved in the immune dysregulation of PE participating in type 1 immune response regulation, immune microenvironment regulation in placenta promoting inflammatory factors, trophoblast cell invasion in women with Early-Onset PE (EOPE), placental development, and angiogenesis, promotion of population of M1 and M2, proliferation, invasion, and migration of placental trophoblast cells, and promotion of invasion and autophagy through vias such as PI3K/AKT/mTOR, VEGF/VEGFR1, and TLR9/STAT3.

Trophoblast Cell Function in the Antiphospholipid Syndrome

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is a complex thrombo-inflammatory autoimmune disease characterized by the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). Women with APS are at high risk of recurrent early pregnancy loss as well as late obstetrical complications-premature birth due to placental insufficiency or severe preeclampsia. Accumulating evidence implies that vascular thrombosis is not the only pathogenic mechanism in obstetric APS, and that the direct negative effect of aPL on the placental cells, trophoblast, plays a major role. In this review, we summarize the current findings regarding the potential mechanisms involved in aPL-induced trophoblast dysfunction. Introduction on the APS and aPL is followed by an overview of the effects of aPL on trophoblast-survival, cell function and aPL internalization. Finally, the implication of several non-coding RNAs in pathogenesis of obstetric APS is discussed, with special emphasis of their possible role in trophoblast dysfunction and the associated mechanisms.

Biogenesis and function of exosome lncRNAs and their role in female pathological pregnancy

Preeclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus, and recurrent spontaneous abortion are common maternal pregnancy complications that seriously endanger women's lives and health, and their occurrence is increasing year after year with a rejuvenation trend. In contrast to biomarkers found freely in tissues or body fluids, exosomes exist in a relatively independent environment and provide a higher level of stability. As backbone molecules, guidance molecules, and signaling molecules in the nucleus, lncRNAs can regulate gene expression. In the cytoplasm, lncRNAs can influence gene expression levels by modifying mRNA stability, acting as competitive endogenous RNAs to bind miRNAs, and so on. Exosomal lncRNAs can exist indefinitely and are important in intercellular communication and signal transduction. Changes in maternal serum exosome lncRNA expression can accurately and timely reflect the progression and regression of pregnancy-related diseases. The purpose of this paper is to provide a reference for clinical research on the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment methods of pregnancy-related diseases by reviewing the role of exosome lncRNAs in female pathological pregnancy and related molecular mechanisms.

Metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 induces methyl-CpG-binding domain protein 4 in mice with recurrent spontaneous abortion caused by anti-phospholipid antibody positivity

INTRODUCTION

Antiphospholipid syndrome is an autoimmune disease characterized by pregnancy-related morbidity, related to persistent positivity of antiphospholipid antibodies (APL). One of the characteristics of pregnancy-related morbidity in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome is recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA). This study aimed to examine the mechanism through which metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) regulates methyl-CpG-binding domain protein 4 (MBD4) expression in APL-positive RSA.

METHODS

Clinical samples were subjected to microarray analysis to filter differentially expressed genes. RSA mice with APL positivity were generated, followed by adenoviral vector injection to artificially upregulate MALAT1. The effects of MALAT1 on the biological behavior of trophoblast cells were assessed. The downstream mechanism of MALAT1 was analyzed using subcellular fractionation and bioinformatics prediction, and the relationship between MALAT1 and CREB binding protein (CREBBP) or MBD4 was investigated in trophoblast cells.

RESULTS

MALAT1 was downregulated in APL-positive RSA patients. MALAT1 was predominantly localized in the nucleus and recruited CREBBP to mediate the MBD4 transcription. In the APL-positive RSA mice overexpressing MALAT1, the expression of soluble Fms-related tyrosine kinase 1 and anticardiolipin antibody and the embryonic resorption rate were decreased, indicating that MALAT1 reduced the occurrence of RSA in mice. Moreover, MALAT1 enhanced proliferation, migration, and invasion of trophoblast cells through recruiting CREBBP to promote MBD4 expression. Silencing of CREBBP or MBD4 increased embryonic resorption rate in RSA mice overexpressing MALAT1.

DISCUSSION

MALAT1 suppresses APL-positive RSA by promoting MBD4 transcription through recruitment of CREBBP to the MBD4 promoter region.

BBOX1-AS1 mediates trophoblast cells dysfunction via regulating hnRNPK/GADD45A axis†

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is a common pathological problem during pregnancy, and its clinical etiology is complex and unclear. Dysfunction of trophoblasts may cause a series of pregnancy complications, including preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, and RPL. Recently, lncRNAs have been found to be closely related to the occurrence and regulation of pregnancy-related diseases, but few studies have focused on their role in RPL. In this study, we identified a novel lncRNA BBOX1-AS1 that was significantly upregulated in villous tissues and serum of RPL patients. Functionally, BBOX1-AS1 inhibited proliferation, migration, invasion, tube formation and promoted apoptosis of trophoblast cells. Mechanistically, overexpression of BBOX1-AS1 activated the p38 and JNK MAPK signaling pathways by upregulating GADD45A expression. Further studies indicated that BBOX1-AS1 could increase the stability of GADD45A mRNA by binding hnRNPK and ultimately cause abnormal trophoblast function. Collectively, our study highlights that the BBOX1-AS1/hnRNPK/GADD45A axis plays an important role in trophoblast-induced RPL and that BBOX1-AS1 may serve as a potential target for the diagnosis of RPL.

The evaluation of CD39, CD73, and HIF-1 α expression besides their related miRNAs in PBMCs of women with recurrent pregnancy loss

The molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) are not completely recognized. The present study aimed to assess the molecules associated with ATP catabolism and hypoxia besides their related miRNAs in patients with RPL. The frequency of Th17 and Treg cells in PBMCs of RPL women and healthy pregnant women were evaluated with Flow cytometry. The expression levels of CD39, CD73, and Hypoxia-inducible factor-alpha (HIF-1α), miR-18a, miR-30a, and miR-206 in PBMCs of two groups were measured with real-time PCR and western blotting. Then, serum levels of IGF-1, TGF-β, and HIF-1α were measured by ELISA. Our results indicated a higher (p = 0.0002) and lower (p < 0.0001) frequency of Th17 and Treg lymphocytes in RPL women, respectively. The expression level of CD39 decreased in PBMCs of RPL women whereas the level of CD73 and HIF-α increased (p = 0.0010, 0.0023, 0.0006 respectively). The results of CD39 and CD37 were also confirmed by protein analysis (p = 0.0047, 0.0364 respectively). Almost, the same results for CD39 and CD73 expression at mRNA and protein levels were observed in isolated Treg cells. Moreover, we found the higher expression of miR-206 and miRNA-30a (p = 0.0038, 0.0123), but the lower expression of miRNA-18a (p = 0.0101) in RPL. The concentration level of IGF-1, and TGF-β reduced (p = 0.0017, 0.0065 respectively) while the level of HIF-α elevated (p = 0.0235) in serum samples of RPL. In conclusion, we observed the dysregulation of molecules that are involved in ATP catabolism and hypoxia, including CD39, CD73, and HIF-1a which is related to miR-18a, miR-30a, and miR-206 change in RPL women. It may be potentially used for RPL prognosis by more comprehensive future studies.

Identification of the MALAT1/miR-106a-5p/ZNF148 feedback loop in regulating HaCaT cell proliferation, migration and apoptosis

Aims: This study aims to investigate the function of positive feedback loops involving noncoding RNA in diabetic wound healing. Methods: We developed a mouse diabetic wound model to confirm that hyperglycemia can impair wound healing. We also used an in vitro keratinocyte model in high-glucose conditions to investigate the mechanism of delayed wound healing. Results: MALAT1 was decreased in diabetic mouse wound tissue and can promote keratinocyte biological functions. MALAT1 could bind to miR-106a-5p to modulate the expression of ZNF148, a target gene of miR-106a-5p. Surprisingly, ZNF148 bound to a region in the MALAT1 promoter to stimulate gene expression. Conclusion: ZNF148-activated MALAT1 increases ZNF148 expression by competitively binding miR-106a-3p, generating a positive feedback loop that enhances keratinocyte function.

New immune horizons in therapeutics and diagnostic approaches to Preeclampsia

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are one of the commonest maladies, affecting 5%-10% of pregnancies worldwide. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) identifies four categories of HDP, namely gestational hypertension (GH), Preeclampsia (PE), chronic hypertension (CH), and CH with superimposed PE. PE is a multisystem, heterogeneous disorder that encompasses 2%-8% of all pregnancy-related complications, contributing to about 9% to 26% of maternal deaths in low-income countries and 16% in high-income countries. These translate to 50 000 maternal deaths and over 500 000 fetal deaths worldwide, therefore demanding high priority in understanding clinical presentation, screening, diagnostic criteria, and effective management. PE is accompanied by uteroplacental insufficiency leading to vascular and metabolic changes, vasoconstriction, and end-organ ischemia. PE is diagnosed after 20 weeks of pregnancy in women who were previously normotensive or hypertensive. Besides shallow trophoblast invasion and inadequate remodeling of uterine arteries, dysregulation of the nonimmune system has been the focal point in PE. This results from aberrant immune system activation and imbalanced differentiation of T cells. Further, a failure of tolerance toward the semi-allogenic fetus results due to altered distribution of Tregs such as CD4+FoxP3+ or CD4+CD25+CD127(low) FoxP3+ cells, thereby creating a cytotoxic environment by suboptimal production of immunosuppressive cytokines like IL-10, IL-4, and IL-13. Also, intracellular production of complement protein C5a may result in decreased FoxP3+ regulatory T cells. With immune system dysfunction as a major driver in PE pathogenesis, it is logical that therapeutic targeting of components of the immune system with pharmacologic agents like anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating molecules are either being used or under clinical trial. Cholesterol synthesis inhibitors like Pravastatin may improve placental perfusion in PE, while Eculizumab (monoclonal antibody inhibiting C5) and small molecular inhibitor of C5a, Zilucoplan are under investigation. Monoclonal antibody against IL-17(Secukinumab) has been proposed to alter the Th imbalance in PE. Autologous Treg therapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors like anti-CTLA-4 are emerging as new candidates in immune horizons for PE management in the future.

An active glutamine/α-ketoglutarate/HIF-1α axis prevents pregnancy loss by triggering decidual IGF1+GDF15+NK cell differentiation

Deficiency of decidual NK (dNK) cell number and function has been widely regarded as an important cause of spontaneous abortion. However, the metabolic mechanism underlying the crosstalk between dNK cells and embryonic trophoblasts during early pregnancy remains largely unknown. Here, we observed that enriched glutamine and activated glutaminolysis in dNK cells contribute to trophoblast invasion and embryo growth by insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15) secretion. Mechanistically, these processes are dependent on the downregulation of EGLN1-HIF-1α mediated by α-ketoglutarate (α-KG). Blocking glutaminolysis with the GLS inhibitor BPTES or the glutamate dehydrogenase inhibitor EGCG leads to early embryo implantation failure, spontaneous abortion and/or fetal growth restriction in pregnant mice with impaired trophoblast invasion. Additionally, α-KG supplementation significantly alleviated pregnancy loss mediated by defective glutaminolysis in vivo, suggesting that inactivated glutamine/α-ketoglutarate metabolism in dNK cells impaired trophoblast invasion and induced pregnancy loss.

Role of microRNAs in trophoblast invasion and spiral artery remodeling: Implications for preeclampsia

It is now well-established that microRNAs (miRNAs) are important regulators of gene expression. The role of miRNAs in placental development and trophoblast function is constantly expanding. Trophoblast invasion and their ability to remodel uterine spiral arteries are essential for proper placental development and successful pregnancy outcome. Many miRNAs are reported to be dysregulated in pregnancy complications, especially preeclampsia and they exert various regulatory effects on trophoblasts. In this review, we provide a brief overview of miRNA biogenesis and their mechanism of action, as well as of trophoblasts differentiation, invasion and spiral artery remodeling. We then discuss the role of miRNAs in trophoblasts invasion and spiral artery remodeling, focusing on miRNAs that have been thoroughly investigated, especially using multiple model systems. We also discuss the potential role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia.

Evaluation of CD39, CD73, HIF-1α, and their related miRNAs expression in decidua of preeclampsia cases compared to healthy pregnant women

BACKGROUND

The Preeclampsia (PE) molecular mechanisms are not fully revealed and different biological processes are involved in the pathogenesis of PE. We aimed to evaluate adenosine and hypoxia-related signaling molecules in PE patients in the current study.

METHODS

Decidua tissue and peripheral blood samples were taken from 25 healthy pregnant and 25 PE women at delivery time. CD39, CD73, and Hypoxia-inducible factor-alpha (HIF-α) were evaluated in mRNA and protein level using real-time PCR and western blotting techniques, respectively. Also, miR-30a, miR-206, and miR-18a expression were evaluated by real-time PCR. At last, secretion levels of IGF and TGF-β in the taken serum of blood samples were measured by ELISA.

RESULTS

Our results revealed that Expression of CD39 is decreased in PE cases versus healthy controls at mRNA and protein levels (p = 0.0003 for both). CD73 and HIF-α showed an increased level of expression in PE patients at RNA and protein status (p = 0.0157 and p < 0.0001 for protein evaluation of CD73 and HIF-α, respectively). The miRNA-30a (p = 0.0037) and miR-206 (p = 0.0113) showed elevated expression in the decidua of the PE group. The concentration of secreted IGF-1 (p = 0.0002) and TGF-β (p = 0.0101) in serum samples of PE cases compared to the healthy group were decreased.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, our results showed that aberrant expression of molecules that are involved in ATP catabolism and the hypoxic conditions is observed in PE cases and involved in their hypertension and inflammation could be served as PE prognosis by more confirming in comprehensive future studies. miR-206 and miR-30a play a role by regulating CD39 and CD73 as molecules that are involved in ATP catabolism as well as regulating the production of IGF-1 in the process of hypertension, which is the main feature in patients with preeclampsia. On the other hand, decreased level of miR-18a lead to upregulation of HIF-1a, and the consequence condition of hypoxia increases hypertension and inflammation in these patients.

Regulatory roles of non-coding RNAs and m6A modification in trophoblast functions and the occurrence of its related adverse pregnancy outcomes

Adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus, fetal growth restriction, and recurrent miscarriage, occur frequently in pregnant women and might further induce morbidity and mortality for both mother and fetus. Increasing studies have shown that dysfunctions of human trophoblast are related to these adverse pregnancy outcomes. Recent studies also showed that environmental toxicants could induce trophoblast dysfunctions. Moreover, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have been reported to play important regulatory roles in various cellular processes. However, the roles of ncRNAs in the regulation of trophoblast dysfunctions and the occurrence of adverse pregnancy outcomes still need to be further investigated, especially with exposure to environmental toxicants. In this review, we analyzed the regulatory mechanisms of ncRNAs and m6A methylation modification in the dysfunctions of trophoblast cells and the occurrence of adverse pregnancy outcomes and also summarized the harmful effects of environmental toxicants. In addition to DNA replication, mRNA transcription, and protein translation, ncRNAs and m6A modification might be considered as the fourth and fifth elements that regulate the genetic central dogma, respectively. Environmental toxicants might also affect these processes. In this review, we expect to provide a deeper scientific understanding of the occurrence of adverse pregnancy outcomes and to discover potential biomarkers for the diagnosis and treatment of these outcomes.

Potential Use of Anti-Cancer Drugs for Treatment of Preeclampsia by Targeting the miRNA-IGF1R-PI3K-AKT Axis

Aim

Preeclampsia (PE) belongs to hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), which can cause maternal death worldwide. This study aimed to identify the miRNA-mRNA-associated ceRNA network and to find new treatment schedules for PE.

Methods

4 microarray datasets were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. We obtained 1737 differentially expressed mRNAs (865 upregulated and 872 downregulated) and 148 differentially expressed miRNAs (76 upregulated and 72 downregulated) from the placenta tissues of PE, respectively. Functional enrichment analyses of DEmRNAs were performed. The regulatory relationship between DEmiRNAs and DEmRNA was predicted via related databases. An miRNA-mRNA regulatory network was constructed.

Results

hsa-let-7c and IGF1R were identified as potential regulators for PE, and function enrichment analysis showed that the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway was closely related. Therefore, ceRNAs might regulate the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway via the upregulation of IGF1R by binding to hsa-let-7c, affecting invasion of trophoblast, angiogenesis, and proinflammation in PE. Further study demonstrated that anticancer drugs including the PI3K inhibitor, AKT inhibitor, and IGF-1 inhibitor might be a potential solution for PE treatment.

Conclusions

The hsa-let-7c/IGF1R axis might affect the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway which is involved in the pathogenesis of PE, and inhibitors targeting this pathway might be used for PE treatment.

Long Non-Coding RNA Prostate Cancer Non-Coding RNA 1/miR-211-5p/Death Effector Domain Containing 2 Axis Affects Preeclampsia by Modulating Trophoblast Cells Proliferation and Apoptosis

Background: Preeclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy-specific hypertensive disorder that affects 5–7% of pregnant women and is characterized by edema, hypertension and proteinuria. It is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in pregnant women and newborns. Evidences reveal that the expression of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) prostate cancer non-coding RNA 1 (PRNCR1) is abnormal in PE. Therefore, we investigated the role of lncRNA PRNCR1 in PE development and its molecular mechanism. Methods: Quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to determine the expression levels of lncRNA PRNCR1, microRNA (miR)-211-5p and mRNA leval of death effector domain containing 2 (DEDD2). Besides, the expression level of DEDD2 was detected by western blot assay. Cell proliferation ability was measured by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, and cell apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry assay. Transwell assay was used to detect the migration and invasion of HTR-8/SVneo cells. The relationship between miR-211-5p and lncRNA PRNCR1 or DEDD2 was verified by dual luciferase reporter gene assay. Results: Over-expression of lncRNA PRNCR1 induced apoptosis, impeded proliferation, migration, invasion in HTR-8/SVneo cells. Knockdown of lncRNA PRNCR1 inhibited apoptosis, promoted cell proliferation, migration and invasion, and all these effects were offset by miR-211-5p inhibitor. The mRNA and protein levels of DEDD2 were decreased by overexpressing miR-211-5p in HTR-8/SVneo cells, while miR-211-5p inhibitor significantly increased the mRNA and protein levels of DEDD2. Conclusions: lncRNA PRNCR1 regulated cell behavior (proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion) via the miR-211-5p/DEDD2 axis in HTR-8/SVneo cells. Thus, lncRNA PRNCR1 participated in the occurrence and development of PE.

Hypoxia induced-disruption of lncRNA TUG1/PRC2 interaction impairs human trophoblast invasion through epigenetically activating Nodal/ALK7 signalling

Inadequate trophoblastic invasion is considered as one of hallmarks of preeclampsia (PE), which is characterized by newly onset of hypertension (>140/90 mmHg) and proteinuria (>300 mg in a 24‐h urine) after 20 weeks of gestation. Accumulating evidence has indicated that long noncoding RNAs are aberrantly expressed in PE, whereas detailed mechanisms are unknown. In the present study, we showed that lncRNA Taurine upregulated 1 (TUG1) were downregulated in preeclamptic placenta and in HTR8/SVneo cells under hypoxic conditions, together with reduced enhancer of zeste homolog2 (EZH2) and embryonic ectoderm development (EED) expression, major components of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), as well as activation of Nodal/ALK7 signalling pathway. Mechanistically, we found that TUG1 bound to PRC2 (EZH2/EED) in HTR8/SVneo cells and weakened TUG1/PRC2 interplay was correlated with upregulation of Nodal expression via decreasing H3K27me3 mark at the promoter region of Nodal gene under hypoxic conditions. And activation of Nodal signalling prohibited trophoblast invasion via reducing MMP2 levels. Overexpression of TUG1 or EZH2 significantly attenuated hypoxia‐induced reduction of trophoblastic invasiveness via negative modulating Nodal/ALK7 signalling and rescuing expression of its downstream target MMP2. These investigations might provide some evidence for novel mechanisms responsible for inadequate trophoblastic invasion and might shed some light on identifying future therapeutic targets for PE.

The expression profile of plasmatic exosomal lncRNAs in early-onset preeclampsia by sequencing

Identification of the expression profile of exosomal lncRNAs in plasma from PE patients to provide new insights into the molecular mechanism. Five pregnant patients with early-onset severe PE were included in the PE group and 5 normal pregnant patients were included in the control group in the training cohort. Differential expression of genes were identified between the two groups, and were verified in plasma exosomes from 12 additional pregnant patients with EPE and 12 normal pregnant patients. KEGG pathway analysis and GO enrichment analysis were performed using online prediction databases to construct a lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA co-expression network. From there a panel of candidate lncRNAs was selected and validated via quantitative PCR in the two groups. In the 289 differential lncRNA, 155 were up-regulated and 134 were down-regulated. Bioinformatics enrichment analysis demonstrated that the target genes of differential expression of lncRNAs were enriched in 159 pathways with P < 0.05, including cancer, metabolic and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways. Three lncRNAs exhibited significant differential expressed in exosomes between the two groups. A lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA co-expression network analysis showed that ENST00000559730-hsa-miR-661-NUDT16 was the most frequently associated with susceptibility-relation of PE. The significant differences of plasmatic exosomal lncRNA expression between normal pregnant women and early-onset severe PE patients suggest that lncRNA may participate in the pathogenetic process of PE. Our study provides a preliminary bioinformatic foundation in order to find PE markers in plasma which further increase the sample size, and continue to verify the function of lncRNA in vitro.

Hypoxia-induced polarization of M2 macrophages and CCL5 secretion promotes the migration and invasion of trophoblasts

In the early stage of pregnancy, hypoxia in the placenta is of great significance to the migration and invasion of trophoblasts. In addition, changes to the polarity and activity of macrophages can affect embryo implantation, trophoblast migration and invasion, and vascular remodeling by affecting cytokine secretion. However, the mechanism of the effects of hypoxic conditions in the placenta on trophoblasts remains unknown. We used gene knockdown on macrophages, and drug treatment on trophoblasts, and cultured them under hypoxic and normoxic conditions. The cells were then subjected to wound healing assays, Transwell cell invasion experiments, quantitative real-time reverse transcription PCR, western blotting, and immunofluorescence. The polarization of macrophages in each group, the migration and invasion ability of trophoblasts, and changes to the phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) signaling pathway were detected. Hypoxic conditions induce M2 polarization of macrophages. The conditioned medium from macrophages under hypoxic conditions increased the migration and invasion of trophoblasts, and enhanced the levels of phosphorylated (p)-PI3K and p-AKT in trophoblasts. After CCL5 knockdown in macrophages, the ability of conditioned medium from macrophages cultured under hypoxic conditions to promote the migration and invasion of trophoblasts was weakened significantly. The use of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway agonists could reverse the attenuation effect caused by CCL5 knockdown.

The Role of Non-Coding RNAs in the Human Placenta

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) play a central and regulatory role in almost all cells, organs, and species, which has been broadly recognized since the human ENCODE project and several other genome projects. Nevertheless, a small fraction of ncRNAs have been identified, and in the placenta they have been investigated very marginally. To date, most examples of ncRNAs which have been identified to be specific for fetal tissues, including placenta, are members of the group of microRNAs (miRNAs). Due to their quantity, it can be expected that the fairly larger group of other ncRNAs exerts far stronger effects than miRNAs. The syncytiotrophoblast of fetal origin forms the interface between fetus and mother, and releases permanently extracellular vesicles (EVs) into the maternal circulation which contain fetal proteins and RNA, including ncRNA, for communication with neighboring and distant maternal cells. Disorders of ncRNA in placental tissue, especially in trophoblast cells, and in EVs seem to be involved in pregnancy disorders, potentially as a cause or consequence. This review summarizes the current knowledge on placental ncRNA, their transport in EVs, and their involvement and pregnancy pathologies, as well as their potential for novel diagnostic tools.

(Dis)similarities between the Decidual and Tumor Microenvironment

Placenta-specific trophoblast and tumor cells exhibit many common characteristics. Trophoblast cells invade maternal tissues while being tolerated by the maternal immune system. Similarly, tumor cells can invade surrounding tissues and escape the immune system. Importantly, both trophoblast and tumor cells are supported by an abetting microenvironment, which influences invasion, angiogenesis, and immune tolerance/evasion, among others. However, in contrast to tumor cells, the metabolic, proliferative, migrative, and invasive states of trophoblast cells are under tight regulatory control. In this review, we provide an overview of similarities and dissimilarities in regulatory processes that drive trophoblast and tumor cell fate, particularly focusing on the role of the abetting microenvironments.

Epigenetic regulation of epithelial to mesenchymal transition: a trophoblast perspective

Epigenetic changes alter expression of genes at both pre- and post-transcriptional levels without changing their DNA sequence. Accumulating evidence suggests that such changes can modify cellular behaviour and characteristics required during development and in response to various extracellular stimuli. Trophoblast cells develop from the outermost trophectoderm layer of the blastocyst and undergo many phenotypic changes as the placenta develops. One such phenotypic change is differentiation of the epithelial natured cytotrophoblasts into the mesenchymal natured extravillous trophoblasts. The extravillous trophoblasts are primarily responsible for invading into the maternal decidua and thus establishing connection with the maternal spiral arteries. Any dysregulation of this process can have adverse effects on the pregnancy outcome. Hence, tight regulation of this epithelial-mesenchymal transition is critical for successful pregnancy. This review summarizes the recent research on the epigenetic regulation of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition occurring in the trophoblast cells during placental development. The functional significance of chemical modifications of DNA and histone, which regulate transcription, as well as non-coding RNAs, which control gene expression post-transcriptionally, is discussed in relation to trophoblast biology.

Long non-coding RNA PAXIP-AS1 promotes viability, invasion, and migration of HTR-8/SVneo cells through miR-210-3p/BDNF axis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this research was to explore the role and potential mechanism of long non-coding RNA PAXIP-AS1 in preeclampsia.

METHODS

To investigate the effects of PAXIP-AS1 on cell viability, migration, and invasion. The miR-210-3p-targeted relationship with lncRNA PAXIP-AS1 or BDNF was verified.

RESULTS

PAXIP-AS1 was inversely correlated with miR-210-3p and BDNF was targeted by miR-210-3p. BDNF was positively correlated with PAXIP-AS1 in the serum of preeclampsia patients. The promotion effects of PAXIP-AS1 on cell viability, migration, and invasion were reversed by miR-210-3p up-regulation or BDNF knockdown in trophoblast cells.

CONCLUSION

PAXIP-AS1 promoted the viability, migration, and invasion of trophoblast cells by regulating the miR-210-3p/BDNF axis.

ceRNA Network and Functional Enrichment Analysis of Preeclampsia by Weighted Gene Coexpression Network Analysis

BACKGROUND

Preeclampsia (PE) is a multisystemic syndrome which has short- and long-term risk to mothers and children and has pluralistic etiology.

OBJECTIVE

This study is aimed at constructing a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network for pathways most related to PE using a data mining strategy based on weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA).

METHODS

We focused on pathways involving hypoxia, angiogenesis, and epithelial mesenchymal transition according to the gene set variation analysis (GSVA) scores. The gene sets of these three pathways were enriched by gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). WGCNA was used to study the underlying molecular mechanisms of the three pathways in the pathogenesis of PE by analyzing the relationship among pathways and genes. The soft threshold power (β) and topological overlap matrix allowed us to obtain 15 modules, among which the red module was chosen for the downstream analysis. We chose 10 hub genes that satisfied ∣log2Fold Change | >2 and had a higher degree of connectivity within the module. These candidate genes were subsequently confirmed to have higher gene significance and module membership in the red module. Coexpression networks were established for the hub genes to unfold the connection between the genes in the red module and PE. Finally, ceRNA networks were constructed to further clarify the underlying molecular mechanism involved in the occurrence of PE. 56 circRNAs, 17 lncRNAs, and 20 miRNAs participated in the regulation of the hub genes. Coagulation factor II thrombin receptor (F2R) and lumican (LUM) were considered the most relevant genes, and ceRNA networks of them were constructed.

CONCLUSION

The microarray data mining process based on bioinformatics methods constructed lncRNA and miRNA networks for ten hub genes that were closely related to PE and focused on ceRNAs of F2R and LUM finally. The results of our study may provide insight into the mechanisms underlying PE occurrence.

The MEG3 lncRNA promotes trophoblastic cell growth and invasiveness in preeclampsia by acting as a sponge for miR-21, which regulates BMPR2 levels

Preeclampsia (PE) is one of the leading causes of maternal morbidity and mortality in pregnant women. This study aimed to investigate the potential impact and regulatory mechanisms of bone morphogenetic protein receptor 2 (BMPR2) on the progression of PE. We obtained placental tissues from pregnant women with PE and normal pregnant women, and the results showed that BMPR2 was expressed at low levels in the tissue from PE women. Genetic knockdown of BMPR2 increased the proliferation and invasion of cultured trophoblast cells, whereas its overexpression reduced these characteristics. Bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter gene assays confirmed that BMPR2 is a direct target of miR-21. Overexpression of a miR-21 inhibitor promoted the growth and invasiveness of trophoblast cells, whereas the opposite results were observed for the miR-21 mimic. Furthermore, miR-21 was sponged by the lncRNA MEG3, and shRNA inhibition of MEG3 reduced trophoblast cell growth and invasiveness. miR-21 was upregulated in the tissues from PE women, whereas MEG3 was downregulated, and the two were negatively correlated. Collectively, this study demonstrates that the lncRNA MEG3 acts as a sponge for miR-21, which regulates BMPR2 expression and promotes trophoblast cell proliferation and invasiveness, thereby preventing the development of PE. These findings provide novel insight into a targeted therapy that could be used to treat or prevent the development of PE.

Effects of Aerobic Exercise Training on MyomiRs Expression in Cachectic and Non-Cachectic Cancer Mice

Simple Summary

Muscle wasting is a symptom of the cancer cachexia closely related to the imbalance between protein synthesis and degradation. MyomiRs are small RNA molecules that do not encode proteins and have the function of regulating protein-coding genes, and in this way, myomiRs can regulate the homeostasis of skeletal muscle cells submitted to physiological or pathological stimulus. Aerobic exercise training (AET) is a nonpharmacological adjuvant treatment to prevent cancer cachexia, improving the patient’s quality of life. MyomiRs are modulated by cancer and AET, as well. Thus, we propose to investigate the effects promoted by AET on circulating and skeletal muscle myomiRs in cachectic and non-cachectic cancer mice. Exercise is a promising therapy for cancer-associated muscle wasting, revealing the importance to understand the molecular mechanisms involved to preserve muscle mass.

Abstract

We investigated the effects of AET on myomiRs expression in the skeletal muscle and serum of colon cachectic (CT26) and breast non-cachectic (MMTV-PyMT) cancer mice models. Colon cancer decreased microRNA-486 expression, increasing PTEN in tibialis anterior muscle (TA), decreasing the PI3K/mTOR protein pathway, body and muscle wasting, fibers’ cross-sectional area and muscle dysfunction, that were not preserved by AET. In contrast, breast cancer decreased those muscle functions, but were preserved by AET. In circulation, the downregulation of microRNA-486 and -206 in colon cancer, and the downregulation of microRNA-486 and upregulation of microRNA-206 expression in breast cancer might be good cancer serum biomarkers. Since the microRNA-206 is skeletal muscle specific, their expression was increased in the TA, serum and tumor in MMTV, suggesting a communication among these three compartments. The AET prevents these effects on microRNA-206, but not on microRNA-486 in MMTV. In conclusion, cancer induced a downregulation of microRNA-486 expression in TA and serum of CT26 and MMTV mice and these effects were not prevented by AET; however, to MMTV, the trained muscle function was preserved, probably sustained by the downregulation of microRNA-206 expression. Serum microRNA-206 is a potential biomarker for colon (decreased) and breast (increased) cancer to monitor the disease evolution and the effects promoted by the AET.

Long Non-Coding RNA Small Nucleolar RNA Host Gene 14 Enhances Pancreatic-β-Cell Function by Sponging MicroRNA-206 and Thereby Upregulating Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1

Diabetes mellitus (DM) characterised by pancreatic β-cell dysfunction and insulin resistance is already prevalent worldwide, and the complications of DM increased the mortality of diabetic patients. More and more reports showed that long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) plays key roles in DM, and in this study we explored the effect of long non-coding RNA SNHG14 (SNHG14) in DM. Quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to analyze the expression of SNHG14 and microRNA (miR)-206 in peripheral blood from 60 pairs of healthy and DM samples. Then the effect of SNHG14 on the insulin secretion of pancreatic β-cells was investigated. Moreover, the effects of SNHG14 on the viability and apoptosis of pancreatic β-cells were determined by 3-(4, 5)-dimethylthiahiazo (-z-y1)-3, 5-di- phenytetrazoliumromide (MTT) assay and flow cytometry (FCM) respectively using INS-1 cells transfected with SNHG14-plasmid and/or miR-206 mimic. Bioinformatics and Daul luciferase reporter assay were used to confirm the direct target of miR-206. Our data showed that SNHG14 level was decreased but miR-206 was increased significantly in the peripheral blood of DM patients. Furthermore, over-expression of SNHG14 enhanced insulin secretion and cell viability but inhibited apoptosis of pancreatic β-cells, whereas, miR-206 over-expression reversed these effects. In addition, insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF1) was proved to be regulated by miR-206 negatively and over-expression of SNHG14 increased the expression of IGF1 and IGF1R in pancreatic β-cells. In conclusion, we found that SNHG14 was significantly down-regulated in DM patients, and SNHG14/miR-206/IGF1 may serve as a potential candidate for the clinical target of DM.

Circular RNA hsa_circ_0026552 inhibits the proliferation, migration and invasion of trophoblast cells via the miR‑331‑3p/TGF‑βR1 axis in pre‑eclampsia

Globally, pre-eclampsia (PE) is a gestational disorder that causes increased morbidity of the fetus and mortality induced by pregnancy. Despite various studies, the understanding of the causes or mechanism of the development of PE remains elusive. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the role of circular (circ)RNA hsa_circ_0026552 (hsa_circ_0026552) in the development of PE and its mechanism of regulation. hsa_circ_0026552 differential expression in PE tissue data and clinical samples were analyzed and it was observed that hsa_circ_0026552 is highly upregulated in PE samples. Furthermore, miR-331-3p was detected as an hsa_circ_0026552 target miRNA and TGF-βR1 gene as a target of miR-331-3p. These results were confirmed using various assays, including dual-luciferase reporter, reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and RNA pull-down assay. It was observed that miR-331-3p expression was negatively correlated to hsa_circ_0026552 relative expression, while TGF-βR1 expression was positively correlated to hsa_circ_0026552 expression evaluated by Pearson's correlation test. The functional experiments, including Cell Counting Kit-8, colony formation and Transwell assay, showed that silencing hsa_circ_0026552 could significantly strengthen the proliferation, migration and invasion of the trophoblastic HTR-8/SVneo cells, but the subsequent overexpression of hsa_circ_0026552 reversed this. Mechanistically, it was concluded that hsa_circ_0026552 acts as a miR-331-3p sponge to upregulate TGF-βR1 expression in trophoblasts and is involved significantly in PE development and progression in pregnant women. The circRNA hsa_circ_0026552 could be a novel therapeutic target and prognostic biomarker for PE.

Role of lncRNA BCYRN1 in trophoblast cell physiology and pathogenesis of preeclampsia

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) may play a key role in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia (PE). The present study investigated the role of the lncRNA brain cytoplasmic RNA 1 (BCYRN1) in PE. A total of 30 patients with severe PE (SPE) and 30 patients with mild PE (MPE) were recruited, whilst 30 healthy pregnant individuals were enrolled as controls. Placental tissues of enrolled subjects were collected after delivery. The clinical data of pregnant women and newborns were recorded before the correlation between BCYRN1 expression and clinical characteristics was analyzed. Furthermore, HTR-8/SVneo cells were transfected with BCYRN1 overexpression plasmids and BCYRN1 small interfering (si)RNA. Cell Counting Kit-8, Transwell, flow cytometry and tube formation assays were used to detect the function of BCYRN1 in HTR-8/SVneo cells. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR was used to detect BCYRN1 expression in placental tissues and HTR-8/SVneo cells. Western blotting was used to detect the protein expression levels of Wnt1 and β-catenin. BCYRN1 expression was lower in placenta with mild PE compared with in normal placenta, and was in turn lower in placenta with severe PE. BCYRN1 was negatively correlated with systolic blood pressure and 24-h urinary protein in patients with PE. BCYRN1 siRNA inhibited cell viability, migration, invasion and tube forming abilities whilst increasing apoptosis. By contrast, BCYRN1 overexpression conferred opposite effects. The levels of Wnt1 and β-catenin expression in the cells and placental tissues were next measured. Cells overexpressing BCYRN1 were further treated with the Wnt pathway inhibitor XAV939. Wnt1 and β-catenin expression were elevated when BCYRN1 was overexpressed, but were decreased after BCYRN1 knockdown. XAV939 attenuated the effect of BCYRN1 overexpression on HTR-8/SVneo cells. Overall, the resulted indicated that upregulation of BCYRN1 increased trophoblast viability and prevented apoptosis by activating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway to delay PE onset.

Roles of the Immune/Methylation/Autophagy Landscape on Single-Cell Genotypes and Stroke Risk in Breast Cancer Microenvironment

This study sought to perform integrative analysis of the immune/methylation/autophagy landscape on breast cancer prognosis and single-cell genotypes. Breast Cancer Recurrence Risk Score (BCRRS) and Breast Cancer Prognostic Risk Score (BCPRS) were determined based on 6 prognostic IMAAGs obtained from the TCGA-BRCA cohort. BCRRS and BCPRS, respectively, were used to construct a risk prediction model of overall survival and progression-free survival. Predictive capacity of the model was evaluated using clinical data. Analysis showed that BCRRS is associated with a high risk of stroke. In addition, PPI and drug-ceRNA networks based on differences in BCPRS were constructed. Single cells were genotyped through integrated scRNA-seq of the TNBC samples based on clustering results of BCPRS-related genes. The findings of this study show the potential regulatory effects of IMAAGs on breast cancer tumor microenvironment. High AUCs of 0.856 and 0.842 were obtained for the OS and PFS prognostic models, respectively. scRNA-seq analysis showed high expression levels of adipocytes and adipose tissue macrophages (ATMs) in high BCPRS clusters. Moreover, analysis of ligand-receptor interactions and potential regulatory mechanisms were performed. The LINC00276&MALAT1/miR-206/FZD4-Wnt7b pathway was also identified which may be useful in future research on targets against breast cancer metastasis and recurrence. Neural network-based deep learning models using BCPRS-related genes showed that these genes can be used to map the tumor microenvironment. In summary, analysis of IMAAGs, BCPRS, and BCRRS provides information on the breast cancer microenvironment at both the macro- and microlevels and provides a basis for development of personalized treatment therapy.

Roles of noncoding RNAs in preeclampsia

Preeclampsia (PE) is an idiopathic disease that occurs during pregnancy. It comprises multiple organ and system damage, and can seriously threaten the safety of the mother and infant throughout the perinatal period. As the pathogenesis of PE is unclear, there are few specific remedies. Currently, the only way to eliminate the clinical symptoms is to terminate the pregnancy. Although noncoding RNA (ncRNA) was once thought to be the "junk" of gene transcription, it is now known to be widely involved in pathological and physiological processes, including pregnancy-related disorders. Moreover, there is growing evidence that the unbalanced expression of specific ncRNA is involved in the pathogenesis of PE. In the present review, we summarize the expression patterns of ncRNAs, i.e., microRNAs (miRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), and the functional mechanisms by which they affect the development of PE, and examine the clinical significance of ncRNAs as biomarkers for the diagnosis of PE. We also discuss the contributions made by genetic polymorphisms and epigenetic ncRNA regulation to PE. In the present review, we wish to explore and reinforce the clinical value of ncRNAs as noninvasive biomarkers of PE.

The Role of Long Non-Coding RNAs in Trophoblast Regulation in Preeclampsia and Intrauterine Growth Restriction

Preeclampsia (PE) and Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR) are two pregnancy-specific placental disorders with high maternal, fetal, and neonatal morbidity and mortality rates worldwide. The identification biomarkers involved in the dysregulation of PE and IUGR are fundamental for developing new strategies for early detection and management of these pregnancy pathologies. Several studies have demonstrated the importance of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) as essential regulators of many biological processes in cells and tissues, and the placenta is not an exception. In this review, we summarize the importance of lncRNAs in the regulation of trophoblasts during the development of PE and IUGR, and other placental disorders.

Effect of lncRNA-ATB/miR-651-3p/Yin Yang 1 pathway on trophoblast-endothelial cell interaction networks

Our previous studies have confirmed that lncRNA‐ATB may be involved in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia, however, it is uncertain whether lncRNA‐ATB influence the interaction between trophoblast and endothelial cells, which is crucial to the uterine spiral artery remodelling. Scratch wound healing and transwell invasion assay were conducted to test the migration and invasion of trophoblast cells. Co‐culture model was used to simulate the physiological environment in vivo. The expression levels of lncRNA‐ATB were analyzed in placenta tissues from healthy pregnant women and preeclampsia patients. Subsequently, the binding site of lncRNA‐ATB and miR‐651‐3p was verified using dual‐luciferase reporter assay, and the rescue experiment was used to study the effects of these two on the biological function. The direct effects of miR‐651‐3p and Yin Yang 1 (YY1) were verified using similar methods. LncRNA‐ATB was found to be down‐regulated in the placenta of preeclampsia patients. LncRNA‐ATB knockdown decreased trophoblast migration, invasion and colocalisation with human umbilical vein endothelial cells. MiR‐651‐3p was a direct target of lncRNA‐ATB and they had opposite effects. Moreover, the expression of lncRNA‐ATB and miR‐651‐3p in placental tissues was negatively correlated. MiR‐651‐3p has been confirmed to directly target the 3′ untranslated region of YY1. The inhibitory effects of YY1 low expression on biological function was rescued by miR‐651‐3p depletion. Western blot analysis showed that lncRNA‐ATB could regulate YY1 expression by sponging miR‐651‐3p. LncRNA‐ATB functioned as a competitive endogenous RNA of miR‐651‐3p to regulate YY1 on progress of spiral artery remodelling.

Recent Advances of MicroRNAs, Long Non-coding RNAs, and Circular RNAs in Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a clinical syndrome characterized by multiple-organ dysfunction, such as maternal hypertension and proteinuria, after 20 weeks of gestation. It is a common cause of fetal growth restriction, fetal malformation, and maternal death. At present, termination of pregnancy is the only way to prevent the development of the disease. Non-coding RNAs, including microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs, are involved in important pathological and physiological functions in life cycle activities including ontogeny, reproduction, apoptosis, and cell reprogramming, and are closely associated with human diseases. Accumulating evidence suggests that non-coding RNAs are involved in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia through regulation of various physiological functions. In this review, we discuss the current evidence of the pathogenesis of preeclampsia, introduce the types and biological functions of non-coding RNA, and summarize the roles of non-coding RNA in the pathophysiological development of preeclampsia from the perspectives of oxidative stress, hypoxia, angiogenesis, decidualization, trophoblast invasion and proliferation, immune regulation, and inflammation. Finally, we briefly discuss the potential clinical application and future prospects of non-coding RNA as a biomarker for the diagnosis of preeclampsia.

Malat-1 expression in bladder carcinoma tissues and its clinical significance

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the expression of metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (Malat-1) in bladder carcinoma and its relationship with clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis.

METHODS

Specimens were collected from 90 patients with bladder carcinoma who underwent urological surgery in our hospital. Twenty patients diagnosed with benign prostatic hyperplasia were selected as the negative control. The expression of Malat-1 was detected by real-time reverse transcription PCR, and its relationship with clinicopathological factors and prognosis was analyzed.

RESULTS

The expression of Malat-1 in bladder carcinoma tissues (2.55±0.31) was higher than that in adjacent tissues (1.62±0.42) and normal bladder mucosa tissues (0.84±0.06); the differences were statistically significant (t=13.647 and 27.302, both P<0.001). The high expression rate of Malat-1 in bladder carcinoma tissues (86.67%) was significantly higher than that in adjacent tissues (22.22%) and normal bladder mucosa tissues (5.00%; P=0.000 and 0.000). The high expression rate of Malat-1 was correlated with age, tumor staging, degree of differentiation and lymph node metastasis (P=0.018, 0.000, 0.000, and 0.000). The median survival time and the 1-year, 3-year and 5-year survival rates of patients with high Malat-1 expression were lower than those with low expression of Malat-1 (P=0.006, 0.011, 0.000 and 0.002). High expression of Malat-1 is an independent risk factor for poor overall survival (OS) in bladder cancer patients.

CONCLUSION

Overexpression of Malat-1 in bladder carcinoma tissues is associated with malignant biological characteristics and poor prognosis of patients.

The Interplay Between Non-coding RNAs and Insulin-Like Growth Factor Signaling in the Pathogenesis of Neoplasia

The insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) are polypeptides with similar sequences with insulin. These factors regulate cell growth, development, maturation, and aging via different processes including the interplay with MAPK, Akt, and PI3K. IGF signaling participates in the pathogenesis of neoplasia, insulin resistance, diabetes mellitus, polycystic ovarian syndrome, cerebral ischemic injury, fatty liver disease, and several other conditions. Recent investigations have demonstrated the interplay between non-coding RNAs and IGF signaling. This interplay has fundamental roles in the development of the mentioned disorders. We designed the current study to search the available data about the role of IGF-associated non-coding RNAs in the evolution of neoplasia and other conditions. As novel therapeutic strategies have been designed for modification of IGF signaling, identification of the impact of non-coding RNAs in this pathway is necessary for the prediction of response to these modalities.

MALAT1 sponges miR-26a and miR-26b to regulate endothelial cell angiogenesis via PFKFB3-driven glycolysis in early-onset preeclampsia

6-phosphofructo-2-kinase (PFKFB3) is a crucial regulator of glycolysis that has been implicated in angiogenesis and the development of diverse diseases. However, the functional role and regulatory mechanism of PFKFB3 in early-onset preeclampsia (EOPE) remain to be elucidated. According to previous studies, noncoding RNAs play crucial roles in EOPE pathogenesis. The goal of this study was to investigate the functional roles and co-regulatory mechanisms of the metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript-1 (MALAT1)/microRNA (miR)-26/PFKFB3 axis in EOPE. In our study, decreased MALAT1 and PFKFB3 expression in EOPE tissues correlates with endothelial cell (EC) dysfunction. The results of in vitro assays revealed that PFKFB3 regulates the proliferation, migration, and tube formation of ECs by modulating glycolysis. Furthermore, MALAT1 regulates PFKFB3 expression by sponging miR-26a/26b. Finally, MALAT1 knockout reduces EC angiogenesis by inhibiting PFKFB3-mediated glycolysis flux, which is ameliorated by PFKFB3 overexpression. In conclusion, decreased MALAT1 expression in EOPE tissues reduces the glycolysis of ECs in a PFKFB3-dependent manner by sponging miR-26a/26b and inhibits EC proliferation, migration, and tube formation, which may contribute to abnormal angiogenesis in EOPE. Thus, strategies targeting PFKFB3-driven glycolysis may be a promising approach for the treatment of EOPE.

Reflections on the Role of Malat1 in Gynecological Cancer

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have received significant attention over the last few years. Malat1, as one of the most extensively studied ncRNAs, is believed to be not only a potential biomarker for disease diagnosis and prognosis, but also a candidate drug target for gynecological cancers. This potential is supported by a growing body of experimental evidence demonstrating that Malat1 participates in the occurrence, progression, and metastasis of tumors. Research has also shown that Malat1 can influence patient survival by regulating a range of target genes and signaling pathways. However, previous review articles have generally failed to consider the role of Malat1 in gynecological cancer in detail. In the present review, we summarize recent progress in research relating to the clinical relevance of Malat1 and the molecular mechanisms underlying the action of this ncRNA. Besides, we put forward some action points for further research after taking into consideration the sub-location and other essential properties of Malat1, which might enable us to have a better understanding of the potential of this molecule regarding clinical diagnosis and treatment.

Long non-coding RNA HOTAIR modulates the progression of preeclampsia through inhibiting miR-106 in an EZH2-dependent manner

AIMS

Preeclampsia (PE) accounts for the foremost cause of maternal and fetal mortality worldwide, whereas, there are no effective treatments for the disease yet. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play critical roles in various human disorders, including PE. Here, we identified an up-regulated lncRNA HOTAIR, and explored its underlying mechanisms in PE.

MAIN METHODS

qRT-PCR analysis was used to examine HOTAIR expression in PE tissues and cell lines. Trophoblast proliferation was examined by colony formation and 5-Ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) incorporation assays. Trophoblast migration and invasion was determined by transwell and wound healing assays. Bioinformatics analysis was performed to verify the regulation HOTAIR on miRNAs. The interaction between HOTAIR and EZH2 was detected using RNA immunoprecipitation assay (RIP). Chromatin immunoprecipitation (CHIP) assay was also performed to verify that the negative regulation of HOTAIR on miR-106a was dependent on the epigenetic repressor EZH2.

KEY FINDINGS

HOTAIR was up-regulated in PE placenta tissues, which repressed the proliferation, migration and invasion of trophoblast cells. HOTAIR significantly repressed miR-106a expression and the reduced miR-106a level was also observed in placentas from PE patients. Additionally, miR-106a mimic enhanced the migration and invasion of trophoblast cells. Further mechanistic analyses implied that the action of HOTAIR is moderately attributable to its repression of miR-106a via association with EZH2.

SIGNIFICANCE

High level of HOTAIR repressed the proliferation, migration and invasion of trophoblast cells through targeting miR-106 in an EZH2-dependent manner, which may provide new insights into the roles of HOTAIR and miR-106a as potential regulators in PE.