1
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Zhu Z, Huang Y, Song Y, Lu J, Hu L, Chen X. LncRNA MALAT1 Knockdown Alleviates Fibrogenic Response in Human Endometrial Stromal Cells Via the miR-22-3p/TGFβR1/Smad2/3 Pathway. Cell Biochem Biophys 2024:10.1007/s12013-024-01445-z. [PMID: 39154131 DOI: 10.1007/s12013-024-01445-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) resulting from irreversible fibrotic repair of endometrium is the main cause of secondary infertility in women, and current therapeutic approaches to IUA are limited. Increasing evidence has suggested the important role of competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) in IUA pathologies. This study aimed to investigate the long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) metastasis associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1)-associated ceRNA in IUA development. We harvested endometrial tissues from patients with or without IUA and extracted endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) from normal endometrial tissues. Transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) was used to induce fibrosis in ESCs. The expression of transforming growth factor β receptor 1 (TGFβR1), α-smooth muscle actin, phosphorylated suppressor of mother against decapentaplegic (p-Smad)2/3, collagen type I alpha 1, MALAT1, and microRNA (miR)-22-3p in endometrial tissues and ESCs was measured by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) or western blotting. Pearson's correlation analysis was conducted to assess the correlation between miR-22-3p expression or TGFβR1 and MALAT1 expression in endometrial tissues. The expression of TGFβR1 in ESCs was also evaluated by immunofluorescence staining. The location of MALAT1 was examined by fluorescence in situ hybridization. Luciferase reporter assays were performed to verify the binding relationship between MALAT1 or TGFβR1 and miR-22-3p. Cell viability was assessed via cell counting kit-8 assays. Our findings revealed that lncRNA MALAT1 and TGFβR1 were upregulated while miR-22-3p was downregulated in IUA endometrial tissues or TGF-β1-stimulated ESCs, and lncRNA MALAT1 expression was negatively correlated with miR-22-3p expression while being positively correlated with TGFβR1 expression in IUA endometrial tissues. Additionally, lncRNA MALAT1 was mainly located in the cytoplasm of ESCs and directly targeted miR-22-3p to regulate TGFβR1 expression. Moreover, knockdown of lncRNA MALAT1 exerted anti-fibrotic effects on ESCs by targeting miR-22-3p, and miR-22-3p overexpression inhibited the fibrosis of ESCs by binding to TGFβR1 3'untranslated region. Collectively, lncRNA MALAT1 promotes endometrial fibrosis by sponging miR-22-3p to regulate TGFβR1 and Smad2/3, and inhibition of MALAT1 may represent a promising therapeutic option for suppressing endometrial fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengyan Zhu
- Department of Gynecology, Wuhan Third Hospital (Guanggu Campus), Wuhan, 430000, Hubei, China
| | - Yu Huang
- Department of Gynecology, Wuhan Third Hospital (Guanggu Campus), Wuhan, 430000, Hubei, China
| | - Yu Song
- Department of Gynecology, Wuhan Third Hospital (Guanggu Campus), Wuhan, 430000, Hubei, China
| | - Jingquan Lu
- Department of Gynecology, Wuhan Third Hospital (Guanggu Campus), Wuhan, 430000, Hubei, China
| | - Lina Hu
- Department of Gynecology, Wuhan Third Hospital (Guanggu Campus), Wuhan, 430000, Hubei, China
| | - Xuemei Chen
- Department of Gynecology, Wuhan Third Hospital (Guanggu Campus), Wuhan, 430000, Hubei, China.
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2
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Gao R, Mao J. Noncoding RNA-Mediated Epigenetic Regulation in Hepatic Stellate Cells of Liver Fibrosis. Noncoding RNA 2024; 10:44. [PMID: 39195573 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna10040044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2024] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a significant contributor to liver-related disease mortality on a global scale. Despite this, there remains a dearth of effective therapeutic interventions capable of reversing this condition. Consequently, it is imperative that we gain a comprehensive understanding of the underlying mechanisms driving liver fibrosis. In this regard, the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is recognized as a pivotal factor in the development and progression of liver fibrosis. The role of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) in epigenetic regulation of HSCs transdifferentiation into myofibroblasts has been established, providing new insights into gene expression changes during HSCs activation. NcRNAs play a crucial role in mediating the epigenetics of HSCs, serving as novel regulators in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. As research on epigenetics expands, the connection between ncRNAs involved in HSCs activation and epigenetic mechanisms becomes more evident. These changes in gene regulation have attracted considerable attention from researchers in the field. Furthermore, epigenetics has contributed valuable insights to drug discovery and the identification of therapeutic targets for individuals suffering from liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. As such, this review offers a thorough discussion on the role of ncRNAs in the HSCs activation of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruoyu Gao
- Department of Gastroenterology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Jingwei Mao
- Department of Gastroenterology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
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3
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Zhou P, Ding X, Du X, Wang L, Zhang Y. Targeting Reprogrammed Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts with Engineered Mesenchymal Stem Cell Extracellular Vesicles for Pancreatic Cancer Treatment. Biomater Res 2024; 28:0050. [PMID: 39099892 PMCID: PMC11293949 DOI: 10.34133/bmr.0050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: As one of the most aggressive and lethal cancers, pancreatic cancer is highly associated with cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) that influence the development and progression of cancer. Targeted reprogramming of CAFs may be a promising strategy for pancreatic cancer. This study aims to construct engineered extracellular vesicles (EVs) with surface modification of integrin α5 (ITGA5)-targeting peptide and high internal expression of miR-148a-3p by endogenous modification for targeted reprogramming of pancreatic CAFs. Methods: Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and pancreatic CAFs were cocultured to examine the effect of BMSC-derived EVs on the expression levels of CAF markers. miR-148a-3p was identified as a functional molecule. The mechanism of miR-148a-3p was elucidated using the dual-luciferase reporter assay. BMSCs were infected with TERT-encoding and miR-148a-3p-encoding lentiviruses. Subsequently, BMSCs were modified with ITGA5-specific targeting peptide. The supernatant was ultracentrifuged to obtain the engineered EVs (ITGA5-EVs-148a), which were used to reprogram CAFs. Results: BMSCs modulated CAF marker expressions through EVs. miR-148a-3p was up-regulated in BMSCs. The expression of miR-148a-3p in pancreatic CAFs was down-regulated when compared with that in normal fibroblasts (NFs). Mechanistically, ITGA5-EVs-148a effectively suppressed the proliferation and migration of pancreatic CAFs by targeting ITGA5 through the TGF-β/SMAD pathway. ITGA5-EVs-148a was associated with enhanced cellular uptake and exhibited enhanced in vitro and in vivo targeting ability. Moreover, ITGA5-EVs-148a exerted strong reconfiguration effects in inactivating CAFs and reversing tumor-promoting effects in 3D heterospheroid and xenograft pancreatic cancer models. Conclusions: This targeted CAF reprogramming strategy with genetically engineered ITGA5-EVs-148a holds great promise as a precision therapeutics in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengcheng Zhou
- School of Medicine,
Southeast University, Nanjing 210000, China
- Department of General Surgery,
Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Xian’guang Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Electronics and Information Displays & Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biosensors, Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM),
Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Xuanlong Du
- School of Medicine,
Southeast University, Nanjing 210000, China
| | - Lianhui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Electronics and Information Displays & Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biosensors, Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM),
Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yewei Zhang
- Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Center,
The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210011, China
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4
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Jiang J, Gareev I, Ilyasova T, Shumadalova A, Du W, Yang B. The role of lncRNA-mediated ceRNA regulatory networks in liver fibrosis. Noncoding RNA Res 2024; 9:463-470. [PMID: 38511056 PMCID: PMC10950566 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2024.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
In the dynamic realm of molecular biology and biomedical research, the significance of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) acting as competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) continues to grow, encompassing a broad spectrum of both physiological and pathological conditions. Particularly noteworthy is their pivotal role in the intricate series of events leading to the development of hepatic fibrosis, where hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play a central role. Recent strides in scientific exploration have unveiled the intricate involvement of lncRNAs as ceRNAs in orchestrating the activation of HSCs. This not only deepens our comprehension of the functioning of proteins, DNA, and the extensive array of coding and noncoding RNAs but also sheds light on the intricate molecular interactions among these molecules. Furthermore, the well-established ceRNA networks, involving classical interactions between lncRNAs, microRNAs (miRNAs), and messenger RNAs (mRNAs), are not mere bystanders; they actively participate in instigating and advancing liver fibrosis. This underscores the pressing need for additional thorough research to fully grasp the potential of ceRNA. The unyielding pursuit of knowledge in this field remains a potent driving force with the capacity to enhance the quality of life for numerous individuals grappling with such diseases. It holds the promise of ushering in a new era of precision medicine, signifying a relentless dedication to unraveling the intricacies of molecular interactions that could pave the way for transformative advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianhao Jiang
- Department of Pharmacology (The State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, 150067, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Translational Medicine Research and Cooperation Center of Northern China, Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Ilgiz Gareev
- Central Research Laboratory, Bashkir State Medical University, Ufa, Republic of Bashkortostan, 3 Lenin Street, 450008, Russia
| | - Tatiana Ilyasova
- Department of Internal Diseases, Bashkir State Medical University, Ufa, Republic of Bashkortostan, 3 Lenin Street, 450008, Russia
| | - Alina Shumadalova
- Department of General Chemistry, Bashkir State Medical University, Ufa, Republic of Bashkortostan, 3 Lenin Street, 450008, Russia
| | - Weijie Du
- Department of Pharmacology (The State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, 150067, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Translational Medicine Research and Cooperation Center of Northern China, Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Baofeng Yang
- Department of Pharmacology (The State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, 150067, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Translational Medicine Research and Cooperation Center of Northern China, Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Harbin 150081, China
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5
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Saleh RO, Alkhafaji AT, Mohammed JS, Bansal P, Kaur H, Ahmad I, Hjazi A, Mohammed IH, Jawad MA, Zwamel AH. LncRNA NEAT1 in the pathogenesis of liver-related diseases. Cell Biochem Funct 2024; 42:e4006. [PMID: 38622913 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.4006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1) is a long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) that is widely expressed in a variety of mammalian cell types. Altered expression levels of the lncRNA NEAT1 have been reported in liver-related disorders including cancer, fatty liver disease, liver fibrosis, viral hepatitis, and hepatic ischemia. lncRNA NEAT1 mostly acts as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to sponge various miRNAs (miRs) to regulate different functions. In regard to hepatic cancers, the elevated expression of NEAT1 has been reported to have a relation with the proliferation, migration, angiogenesis, apoptosis, as well as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of cancer cells. Furthermore, NEAT1 upregulation has contributed to the pathogenesis of other liver diseases such as fibrosis. In this review, we summarize and discuss the molecular mechanisms by which NEAT1 contributes to liver-related disorders including acute liver failure, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), liver fibrosis, and liver carcinoma, providing novel insights and introducing NEAT1 as a potential therapeutic target in these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raed Obaid Saleh
- Department of Medical Laboratory Techniques, Al-Maarif University College, Al-Anbar, Iraq
| | | | | | - Pooja Bansal
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetics, Jain (Deemed-to-be) University, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
- Department of Allied Healthcare and Sciences, Vivekananda Global University, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Harpreet Kaur
- School of Basic & Applied Sciences, Shobhit University, Gangoh, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Department of Health & Allied Sciences, Arka Jain University, Jamshedpur, Jharkhand, India
| | - Irfan Ahmad
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Hjazi
- Department of Medical Laboratory, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Mohammed Abed Jawad
- Department of Medical Laboratories Technology, Al-Nisour University College, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Ahmed Hussein Zwamel
- Medical laboratory technique college, the Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq
- Medical laboratory technique college, the Islamic University of Al Diwaniyah, Al Diwaniyah, Iraq
- Medical laboratory technique college, the Islamic University of Babylon, Babylon, Iraq
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6
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Fu X, Song X, Niu S, Shi S, Chang H, Qi J, Wang P, Bai W. LncRNA-mediated ceRNA network reveals the mechanism of action of Saorilao-4 decoction against pulmonary fibrosis. Front Genet 2024; 15:1339064. [PMID: 38533208 PMCID: PMC10963618 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2024.1339064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Pulmonary fibrosis (PF), a type of interstitial pneumonia with complex etiology and high mortality, is characterized by progressive scarring of the alveolar interstitium and myofibroblastic lesions. In this study, we screened for potential biomarkers in PF and clarified the role of the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA ceRNA network in the inhibitory effect of SRL-4 on PF. Methods: Healthy male SPF SD rats were randomly divided into three groups, namely, CON, MOD, and SRL-4. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses were performed to determine the biological functions of the target genes. A visualized lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA ceRNA network was constructed using Cytoscape, while key genes in the network were identified using the cytoNCA plugin. Results: Seventy-four differentially expressed lncRNAs and 118 differentially expressed mRNAs were identified. Gene Ontology analysis revealed that the target genes were mainly enriched in the cell membrane and in response to organic substances, while Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis showed that the target genes were mainly enriched in the AMPK, PPAR, and cAMP signaling pathways. We elucidated a ceRNA axis, namely, Plcd3-OT1/rno-miR-150-3p/Fkbp5, with potential implications in PF. Key genes, such as AABR07051308.1-201, F2rl2-OT1, and LINC3337, may be important targets for the treatment of PF, while the AMPK, PPAR, and cAMP signaling pathways are potential key targets and important pathways through which SRL-4 mitigates PF. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that SRL-4 improves PF by regulating the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyue Fu
- Department of Pharmacy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, China
| | - Xinni Song
- Department of Pharmacy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, China
| | - Shufang Niu
- Department of Pharmacy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, China
| | - Songli Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, China
| | - Hong Chang
- Department of Pharmacy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, China
| | - Jun Qi
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Baotou Medical College, Baotou, China
| | - Peng Wang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Baotou Medical College, Baotou, China
| | - Wanfu Bai
- Department of Pharmacy, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, China
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7
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Liu B, Xie X, Yang X, Dou C, Tang H, Liu J. The miR-3074/BMP7 axis regulates TGF-β-caused activation of hepatic stellate cells in vitro and CCl 4-caused murine liver fibrosis in vivo. Hum Cell 2024; 37:435-450. [PMID: 38218754 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-023-01017-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Continuously progressive hepatic fibrosis might cause chronic liver diseases, resulting in hepatic failure. The activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) residing in the liver might induce and influence hepatic fibrosis. In the present study, microRNA 3074 (miR-3074) was found increased within transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)-activated HSCs and enriched within the TGF-β signaling. In activated HSCs by TGF-β, miR-3074 overexpression aggravated TGF-β-induced fibrotic changes, whereas miR-3074 inhibition exerted opposite effects. miR-3074 directly targeted bone morphogenetic protein 7 (BMP7) and inhibited BMP7 expression. Under TGF-β induction, overexpressed BMP7 notably attenuated the promotive roles of miR-3074 overexpression in TGF-β-activated HSCs. Within carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-caused liver fibrosis murine model, miR-3074 agomir administration promoted, while LV-BMP7 administration alleviated CCl4-induced fibrotic changes; LV-BMP7 significantly attenuated the effects of miR-3074 agomir. Lastly, mmu-miR-3074 also targeted mouse BMP7 and inhibited mouse BMP7 expression. In conclusion, the miR-3074/BMP7 axis regulates TGF-β-caused activation of HSCs in vitro and CCl4-caused murine liver fibrosis in vivo. BMP7-mediated Smad1/5/8 activation might be involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingjie Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Xia Xie
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Xin Yang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Chengyun Dou
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Haibo Tang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China.
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8
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Chen D, Lu P, Sun T, Ding A. Long non-coding RNA HOX transcript antisense intergenic RNA depletion protects against alcoholic hepatitis through the microRNA-148a-3p/sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor 1 axis. Cell Tissue Res 2023; 394:471-485. [PMID: 37851113 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-023-03835-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
The aggravating role of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) HOTAIR has been indicated in liver injury caused by hepatic ischemia/reperfusion. However, under the condition of alcoholic hepatitis (AH), its effects remain unclear. The present study aimed to examine the effect of lncRNA HOTAIR on hepatic stellate cell viability and apoptosis during liver injury caused by AH. In the liver tissues of AH rats, HOTAIR and S1PR1 were overexpressed, and microRNA (miR)-148a-3p was poorly expressed. Loss-of-function assays revealed that silencing of HOTAIR alleviated liver injury in AH by inhibiting the activated phenotype of hepatic stellate cells, inflammation, and fibrosis. Using the bioinformatics databases, dual-luciferase, RIP, and FISH assays, we observed that HOTAIR was mainly localized in the cytoplasm of hepatic stellate cells, and HOTAIR could bind specifically to miR-148a-3p. In addition, miR-148a-3p could target S1PR1 expression. Rescue experiments showed that silencing of miR-148a-3p or overexpression of S1PR1 reversed the alleviating effects of HOTAIR silencing on liver injury. Taken together, our findings revealed that HOTAIR regulates hepatic stellate cell proliferation via the miR-148a-3p/S1PR1 axis in liver injury, which may serve as the basis for developing novel therapeutic strategies to treat AH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Chen
- Department of Integrated TCM & Western Medicine, Suzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215101, People's Republic of China
| | - Ping Lu
- Department of Hepatology, Suzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, No. 39, Xiashatang, Mudu Town, Wuzhong District, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215101, People's Republic of China.
| | - Tianfeng Sun
- Department of Liver Disease Infection, Suzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215101, People's Republic of China
| | - Aliang Ding
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Suzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215101, People's Republic of China
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9
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Jiang X. The mechanisms and therapeutic potential of long noncoding RNA NEAT1 in fibrosis. Clin Exp Med 2023; 23:3339-3347. [PMID: 37740135 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-023-01191-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis is the excess deposition of extracellular matrix involved in the pathogenesis of chronic diseases and finally leads to the disruption of tissue architecture and failure of organ function. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a class of RNAs with lengths greater than 200 nucleotides and do not code proteins, which regulate gene expression at multiple levels. Nuclear-enriched abundant transcript 1 (NEAT1) is a long noncoding RNA that is widely expressed in mammalian cells and known as essential architectural scaffold for the formation of paraspeckles. Recently, the accumulating studies demonstrated that lncRNA NEAT1 was remarkable upregulated in the development of fibrosis in different organs, such as liver fibrosis, renal fibrosis, cardiac fibrosis, and lung fibrosis. More importantly, knockdown of NEAT1 remarkably alleviated fibrosis in vitro and in vivo. In this review, we summarized current studies of NEAT1 in fibrosis and hopefully aid in a better understanding of the mechanisms of fibrosis and the potential of NEAT1 as novel therapeutic target for fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoying Jiang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, 76 Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China.
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10
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Jiang Q, Zhao J, Jia Q, Wang H, Xue W, Ning F, Wang J, Wang Y, Zhu Z, Tian L. MiR-148a-3p within HucMSC-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Suppresses Hsp90b1 to Prevent Fibroblast Collagen Synthesis and Secretion in Silica-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14477. [PMID: 37833927 PMCID: PMC10572270 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Silicosis is a fatal occupational respiratory disease caused by the prolonged inhalation of respirable silica. The core event of silicosis is the heightened activity of fibroblasts, which excessively synthesize extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Our previous studies have highlighted that human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (hucMSC-EVs) hold promise in mitigating silicosis and the significant role played by microRNAs (miRNAs) in this process. Delving deeper into this mechanism, we found that miR-148a-3p was the most abundant miRNA of the differential miRNAs in hucMSC-EVs, with the gene heat shock protein 90 beta family member 1 (Hsp90b1) as a potential target. Notably, miR-148a-3p's expression was downregulated during the progression of silica-induced pulmonary fibrosis both in vitro and in vivo, but was restored after hucMSC-EVs treatment (p < 0.05). Introducing miR-148a-3p mimics effectively hindered the collagen synthesis and secretion of fibroblasts induced by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) (p < 0.05). Confirming our hypothesis, Hsp90b1 was indeed targeted by miR-148a-3p, with significantly reduced collagen activity in TGF-β1-treated fibroblasts upon Hsp90b1 inhibition (p < 0.05). Collectively, our findings provide compelling evidence that links miR-148a-3p present in hucMSC-EVs with the amelioration of silicosis, suggesting its therapeutic potential by specifically targeting Hsp90b1, thereby inhibiting fibroblast collagen activities. This study sheds light on the role of miR-148a-3p in hucMSC-EVs, opening avenues for innovative therapeutic interventions targeting molecular pathways in pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiyue Jiang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Jing Zhao
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Qiyue Jia
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Hongwei Wang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Wenming Xue
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Fuao Ning
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Jiaxin Wang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Zhonghui Zhu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Lin Tian
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
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Li QY, Gong T, Huang YK, Kang L, Warner CA, Xie H, Chen LM, Duan XQ. Role of noncoding RNAs in liver fibrosis. World J Gastroenterol 2023; 29:1446-1459. [PMID: 36998425 PMCID: PMC10044853 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i9.1446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a wound-healing response following chronic liver injury caused by hepatitis virus infection, obesity, or excessive alcohol. It is a dynamic and reversible process characterized by the activation of hepatic stellate cells and excess accumulation of extracellular matrix. Advanced fibrosis could lead to cirrhosis and even liver cancer, which has become a significant health burden worldwide. Many studies have revealed that noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs, long noncoding RNAs and circular RNAs, are involved in the pathogenesis and development of liver fibrosis by regulating signaling pathways including transforming growth factor-β pathway, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B pathway, and Wnt/β-catenin pathway. NcRNAs in serum or exosomes have been reported to tentatively applied in the diagnosis and staging of liver fibrosis and combined with elastography to improve the accuracy of diagnosis. NcRNAs mimics, ncRNAs in mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes, and lipid nanoparticles-encapsulated ncRNAs have become promising therapeutic approaches for the treatment of liver fibrosis. In this review, we update the latest knowledge on ncRNAs in the pathogenesis and progression of liver fibrosis, and discuss the potentials and challenges to use these ncRNAs for diagnosis, staging and treatment of liver fibrosis. All these will help us to develop a comprehensive understanding of the role of ncRNAs in liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing-Yuan Li
- Department of Clinical Medicine, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong 637000, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Tao Gong
- Department of Clinical Medicine, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong 637000, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yi-Ke Huang
- Center for Transfusion-transmitted Infectious Diseases, Institute of Blood Transfusion, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Chengdu 610052, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Lan Kang
- Center for Transfusion-transmitted Infectious Diseases, Institute of Blood Transfusion, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Chengdu 610052, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Charlotte A Warner
- Liver Center and Gastrointestinal Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, United States
| | - He Xie
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Hospital of Xidian Group, Xi’an 710077, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Li-Min Chen
- Center for Transfusion-transmitted Infectious Diseases, Institute of Blood Transfusion, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Chengdu 610052, Sichuan Province, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Hospital of Xidian Group, Xi’an 710077, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Xiao-Qiong Duan
- Center for Transfusion-transmitted Infectious Diseases, Institute of Blood Transfusion, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Chengdu 610052, Sichuan Province, China
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12
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Cui S, Chen Y, Guo Y, Wang X, Chen D. Hsa-miR-22-3p inhibits liver cancer cell EMT and cell migration/ invasion by indirectly regulating SPRY2. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0281536. [PMID: 36749775 PMCID: PMC9904474 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0281536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The general mechanism for microRNAs to play biological function is through their inhibition on the expression of their target genes. In cancer, microRNAs may accelerate cell senescence, block angiogenesis, decrease energy supplies, repress tumor cell cycle and promote apoptosis to function as the tumor repressors. On the other hand, microRNAs can modulate tumor suppressor molecules to activate oncogene relevant signaling pathway to initiate tumorigenesis and promote tumor progression. By targeting different genes, miR-22 can function as either a tumor suppressor or a tumor promoter in different types of cancer. In liver cancer, miR-22 mainly functions as a tumor suppressor via its regulation on different genes. In this study, we demonstrated that miR-22 indirectly regulates SPRY2 by inhibiting CBL, an E3 ligase for SPRY2 that has been confirmed. As one of the modulators of the MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase)/ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase) signaling pathway, SPRY2 plays important roles in many developmental and physiological processes, and its deregulation has been reported in different types of cancer and shown to affect cancer development, progression, and metastasis. By inhibiting the expression of CBL, which stabilizes SPRY2, miR-22 indirectly upregulates SPRY2, thereby suppressing the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), cell migration, and invasion and decreasing the expression of liver cancer stem cell (CSC) marker genes. The inhibitory effects of miR-22 on EMT, cell migration, and invasion can be blocked by the knockdown of SPRY2 expression in miR-22 overexpressing cells. Additionally, we demonstrated that miR-22 expression inhibits the ERK signaling pathway and that this effect is due to its upregulation of SPRY2. Overall, our study revealed a novel miR-22-3p/CBL/SPRY2/ERK axis that plays an important role in EMT, cell migration, and invasion of liver cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuaishuai Cui
- School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, China
| | - Yuanyuan Chen
- School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, China
| | - Yunfei Guo
- School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, China
| | - Xing Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Dahu Chen
- School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, China
- * E-mail:
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13
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Mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes and non-coding RNAs: Regulatory and therapeutic role in liver diseases. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 157:114040. [PMID: 36423545 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.114040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver disease has become a major health problem worldwide due to its high morbidity and mortality. In recent years, a large body of literature has shown that mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (MSC-Exo) are able to play similar physiological roles as mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). More importantly, there is no immune rejection caused by transplanted cells and the risk of tumor formation, which has become a new strategy for the treatment of various liver diseases. Moreover, accumulating evidence suggests that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are the main effectors by which they exert hepatoprotective effects. Therefore, by searching the databases of Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar and CNKI, this review comprehensively reviewed the therapeutic effects of MSC-Exo and ncRNAs in liver diseases, including liver injury, liver fibrosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. According to the data, the therapeutic effects of MSC-Exo and ncRNAs on liver diseases are closely related to a variety of molecular mechanisms, including inhibition of inflammatory response, alleviation of liver oxidative stress, inhibition of apoptosis of hepatocytes and endothelial cells, promotion of angiogenesis, blocking the cell cycle of hepatocellular carcinoma, and inhibition of activation and proliferation of hepatic stellate cells. These important findings will provide a direction and basis for us to explore the potential of MSC-Exo and ncRNAs in the clinical treatment of liver diseases in the future.
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14
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Testosterone attenuates senile cavernous fibrosis by regulating TGFβR1 and galectin-1 signaling pathways through miR-22-3p. Mol Cell Biochem 2022:10.1007/s11010-022-04641-8. [PMID: 36571651 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-022-04641-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a major health problem affecting a large proportion of the general population. Testosterone also plays a key role in sexual dysfunction. In this study, we found that testosterone can inhibit cavernous fibrosis by affecting the expression of miR-22-3p, providing a new basis for research and treatment of ED. Old and young rats were used to study the effects of testosterone on cavernous fibrosis. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and Masson's staining were used to observe the cavernous tissue. A luciferase assay was used to analyze the relationship between the miR-22-3p, TGFβR1, and Galectin-1 signaling pathways. CCK-8 and flow cytometry were used to detect the proliferation and apoptosis rates of cavernosum smooth muscle cells (CSMCs) following testosterone intervention. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed to examine the positive rate of caspase 3 and Ki67. IF was used to analyze the expression of collagen IV, MMP2, and α-SMA. The levels of GnRH, tT, LH, and F-TESTO in old rats increased after testosterone intervention. miR-22-3p inhibits the expression of TGFβR1 and Galectin-1. The protein expression of TGFβR1, Galectin-1, SMAD2, and p-SMAD2 was reduced by testosterone. The expression levels of α-SMA, collagen I, collagen IV, FN, and MMP2 in the cavernous tissues of old rats treated with testosterone were significantly reduced. The levels of caspase 3 and collagen IV decreased, and the levels of MMP2, Ki67, and α-SMA increased. Testosterone and miR-22-3p inhibit CSMC apoptosis and promote cell proliferation. Testosterone promoted the expression of miR-22-3p to interfere with the expression of the cavernous TGFβR1 and Galectin-1 signaling pathways. Testosterone can reduce cavernous fibrosis during the treatment of functional ED.
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15
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Interplays of liver fibrosis-associated microRNAs: Molecular mechanisms and implications in diagnosis and therapy. Genes Dis 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2022.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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16
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Yang Y, Huang H, Li Y. Roles of exosomes and exosome-derived miRNAs in pulmonary fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:928933. [PMID: 36034858 PMCID: PMC9403513 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.928933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic, progressive fibrosing interstitial lung disease of unknown etiology that leads rapidly to death. It is characterized by the replacement of healthy tissue through an altered extracellular matrix and damage to the alveolar structure. New pharmacological treatments and biomarkers are needed for pulmonary fibrosis to ensure better outcomes and earlier diagnosis of patients. Exosomes are nanoscale vesicles released by nearly all cell types that play a central role as mediators of cell-to-cell communication. Moreover, exosomes are emerging as a crucial factor in antigen presentation, immune response, immunomodulation, inflammation, and cellular phenotypic transformation and have also shown promising therapeutic potential in pulmonary fibrosis. This review summarizes current knowledge of exosomes that may promote pulmonary fibrosis and be utilized for diagnostics and prognostics. In addition, the utilization of exosomes and their cargo miRNAs as novel therapeutics and their potential mechanisms are also discussed. This review aims to elucidate the role of exosomes in the pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis and paves the way for developing novel therapeutics for pulmonary fibrosis. Further in-depth research and clinical trials on this topic are encouraged in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongfeng Yang
- Precision Medicine Key Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hong Huang
- Precision Medicine Key Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Key Laboratory of Transplantation Engineering and Immunology, Institute of Clinical Pathology, Ministry of Health, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yi Li
- Precision Medicine Key Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- *Correspondence: Yi Li,
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Ge Z, Yin C, Li Y, Tian D, Xiang Y, Li Q, Tang Y, Zhang Y. Long noncoding RNA NEAT1 promotes cardiac fibrosis in heart failure through increased recruitment of EZH2 to the Smad7 promoter region. J Transl Med 2022; 20:7. [PMID: 34980170 PMCID: PMC8722118 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-021-03211-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis, a well-known major pathological process that ultimately leads to heart failure, has attracted increasing attention and focus in recent years. A large amount of research indicates that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play an important role in cardiac fibrosis, but little is known about the specific function and mechanism of the lncRNA NEAT1 in the progression of cardiac fibrosis to heart failure. In the present study, we have demonstrated that the lncRNA NEAT1 is upregulated in patients with heart failure. Similarly, the expression of Neat1 was also increased in the left ventricular tissue of transverse aortic constriction (TAC) surgery mice and cardiac fibroblasts treated with TGF-β1. Further, gain-of-function and loss-of-function experiments showed that silencing of Neat1 attenuated cardiac fibrosis, while overexpression of Neat1 with adenovirus significantly aggravated the in vitro progression of fibrosis. With regard to the underlying mechanism, our experiments showed that Neat1 recruited EZH2 to the promoter region of Smad7 through physical binding of EZH2 to the promoter region, as a result of which Smad7 expression was inhibited and the progression of cardiac fibrosis was ultimately exacerbated. We found that the introduction of shNeat1 carried by adeno-associated virus-9 significantly ameliorated cardiac fibrosis and dysfunction caused by TAC surgery in mice. Overall, our study findings demonstrate that the lncRNA Neat1 accelerates the progression of cardiac fibrosis and dysfunction by recruiting EZH2 to suppress Smad7 expression. Thus, NEAT1 may serve as a target for the treatment of cardiac fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuowang Ge
- Department of Cardiology, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1665 Kongjiang Road, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Chengye Yin
- Department of Cardiology, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1665 Kongjiang Road, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Yingze Li
- Department of Cardiology, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1665 Kongjiang Road, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Ding Tian
- Department of Cardiology, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1665 Kongjiang Road, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Yin Xiang
- Department of Cardiology, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1665 Kongjiang Road, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Qianhui Li
- Department of Geriatrics, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yong Tang
- Department of Cardiology, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1665 Kongjiang Road, Shanghai, 200092, China.
| | - Yachen Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1665 Kongjiang Road, Shanghai, 200092, China.
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Wang Z, Yang X, Gui S, Yang F, Cao Z, Cheng R, Xia X, Li C. The Roles and Mechanisms of lncRNAs in Liver Fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:779606. [PMID: 34899344 PMCID: PMC8652206 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.779606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) can potentially regulate all aspects of cellular activity including differentiation and development, metabolism, proliferation, apoptosis, and activation, and benefited from advances in transcriptomic and genomic research techniques and database management technologies, its functions and mechanisms in physiological and pathological states have been widely reported. Liver fibrosis is typically characterized by a reversible wound healing response, often accompanied by an excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix. In recent years, a range of lncRNAs have been investigated and found to be involved in several cellular-level regulatory processes as competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) that play an important role in the development of liver fibrosis. A variety of lncRNAs have also been shown to contribute to the altered cell cycle, proliferation profile associated with the accelerated development of liver fibrosis. This review aims to discuss the functions and mechanisms of lncRNAs in the development and regression of liver fibrosis, to explore the major lncRNAs involved in the signaling pathways regulating liver fibrosis, to elucidate the mechanisms mediated by lncRNA dysregulation and to provide new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhifa Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Chaohu Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei Anhui, China
| | - Xiaoke Yang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Siyu Gui
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Fan Yang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Zhuo Cao
- The First Clinical Medical College, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Rong Cheng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Anhui Provincial Children's Hospital, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaowei Xia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Anhui Provincial Children's Hospital, Hefei, China
| | - Chuanying Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Anhui Provincial Children's Hospital, Hefei, China
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Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is a reversible wound healing process following liver injury. Although this process is necessary for maintaining liver integrity, severe excessive extracellular matrix accumulation (ECM) could lead to permanent scar formation and destroy the liver structure. The activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is a key event in hepatic fibrosis. Previous studies show that most antifibrotic therapies focus on the apoptosis of HSCs and the prevention of HSC activation. Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) play a substantial role in HSC activation and are likely to be biomarkers or therapeutic targets for the treatment of hepatic fibrosis. This review summarizes and discusses the previously reported ncRNAs, including the microRNAs, long noncoding RNAs, and circular RNAs, highlighting their regulatory roles and interactions in the signaling pathways that regulate HSC activation in hepatic fibrosis.
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