miR-429 suppresses cell growth and induces apoptosis of human thyroid cancer cell by targeting ZEB1

Correlation of PTEN signaling pathway and miRNA in breast cancer

Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most common cancers among women and can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated on time. Various genetic and environmental factors play a significant role in the development and progression of BC. Within the body, different signaling pathways have been identified that contribute to cancer progression, or conversely, cancer prevention. Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) is one of the proteins that prevent cancer by inhibiting the oncogenic PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are molecules with about 18 to 28 base pairs, which regulate about 30% of human genes after transcription. miRNAs play a key role in the progression or prevention of cancer through different signaling pathway and mechanisms, e.g., apoptosis, angiogenesis, and proliferation. miRNAs, which are upstream mediators of PTEN, can reinforce or suppress the effect of PTEN signaling on BC cells, and suppressing the PTEN signaling, linked to weakness of the cancer cells to chemotherapeutic drugs. However, the precise mechanism and function of miRNAs on PTEN in BC are not yet fully understood. Therefore, in the present study, has been focused on miRNAs regulating PTEN function in BC.

Hsa_circ_0084912 Drives the Progression of Cervical Cancer Via Regulating miR-429/SOX2 Pathway

We focus on hsa_circ_0084912's role in Cervical cancer (CC) and its molecular pathways. In order to determine the expression of Hsa_circ_0084912, miR-429, and SOX2 in CC tissues and cells, Western blotting and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) were utilized. Cell counting kit 8 (CCK-8), colony formation and Transwell assays were respectively to analyze CC cell proliferation viability, clone formation ability and migration. RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay and dual-luciferase assay were used to assure the targeting correlation among hsa_circ_0084912/SOX2 and miR-429. By using a xenograft tumor model, the hsa_circ_0084912 impact on CC cell proliferation in vivo was confirmed. Hsa_circ_0084912 and SOX2 expressions were aggrandized, however, miR-429 expression was descended in CC tissues and cells. Silencing hsa_circ_0084912 inhibited cell proliferation, colony formation and migration in vitro of CC, meanwhile reducing growth of tumor in vivo. MiR-429 might be sponged by Hsa_circ_0084912 to control SOX2 expression. Hsa_circ_0084912 knockdown impact on the malignant phenotypes of CC cells was restored by miR-429 inhibitor. Moreover, SOX2 silencing eliminated the promotive effects of miR-429 inhibitors on CC cell malignancies. By raising SOX2 expression by targeting miR-429, hsa_circ_0084912 accelerated the development of CC, offering fresh proof that it is a viable target for CC treatment.

Unleashing the pathological imprinting of cancer in autoimmunity: Is ZEB1 the answer?

The intriguing scientific relationship between autoimmunity and cancer immunology have been traditionally indulged to throw spotlight on novel pathological targets. Understandably, these "slowly killing" diseases are on the opposite ends of the immune spectrum. However, the immune regulatory mechanisms between autoimmunity and cancer are not always contradictory and sometimes mirror each other based on disease stage, location, and timepoint. Moreover, the blockade of immune checkpoint molecules or signalling pathways that unleashes the immune response against cancer is being leveraged to preserve self-tolerance and treat many autoimmune disorders. Therefore, understanding the common crucial factors involved in cancer is of paramount importance to paint the autoimmune disease spectrum and validate novel drug candidates. In the current review, we will broadly describe how ZEB1, or Zinc-finger E-box Binding Homeobox 1, reinforces immune exhaustion in cancer or contributes to loss of self-tolerance in auto-immune conditions. We made an effort to exchange information about the molecular pathways and pathological responses (immune regulation, cell proliferation, senescence, autophagy, hypoxia, and circadian rhythm) that can be regulated by ZEB1 in the context of autoimmunity. This will help untwine the intricate and closely postured pathogenesis of ZEB1, that is less explored from the perspective of autoimmunity than its counterpart, cancer. This review will further consider several approaches for targeting ZEB1 in autoimmunity.

Circulating microRNAs for Early Diagnosis of Ovarian Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

In this study, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to summarize and evaluate the global research potential of different circulating miRNAs as an early diagnostic biomarker for OC. A systematic literature search for relevant studies was conducted in June 2020 and followed up in November 2021. The search was conducted in English databases (PubMed, ScienceDirect). The primary search resulted in a total of 1887 articles, which were screened according to the prior established inclusion and exclusion criteria. We identified 44 relevant studies, of which 22 were eligible for the quantitative meta-analysis. Statistical analysis was performed using the Meta-package in Rstudio. Standardized mean differences (SMD) of relative levels between control subjects and OC patients were used to evaluate the differential expression. All studies were quality evaluated using a Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Based on the meta-analysis, nine miRNAs were identified as dysregulated in OC patients compared to controls. Nine were upregulated in OC patients compared to controls (miR-21, -125, -141, -145, -205, -328, -200a, -200b, -200c). Furthermore, miR-26, -93, -106 and -200a were analyzed, but did not present an overall significant difference between OC patients and controls. These observations should be considered when performing future studies of circulating miRNAs in relation to OC: sufficient size of clinical cohorts, development of consensus guidelines for circulating miRNA measurements, and coverage of previously reported miRNAs.

NGS-based profiling identifies miRNAs and pathways dysregulated in cisplatin-resistant esophageal cancer cells

Esophageal cancer (EC) incidence remains to be on a global rise supported by an unchanged recurrence and 5-year survival rate owing to the development of chemoresistance. Resistance to cisplatin, one of the majorly used chemotherapeutic drugs in EC, is a major nuisance. This study sheds light on miRNA dysregulation and its inverse relation with dysregulated mRNAs to guide pathways into the manifestation of cisplatin resistance in EC. A cisplatin-resistant version of an EC cell line was established and comparative profiling by NGS with the parental cell line was employed to identify dysregulation in miRNA and mRNA levels. Protein-protein interaction network analysis was done using Cytoscape, followed by Funrich pathway analysis. Furthermore, selective significant miRNAs were validated using qRT-PCR. miRNA-mRNA integrated analysis was carried out using the Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) tool. Expression of various established resistance markers supported the successful establishment of cisplatin-resistant cell line. Whole-cell small RNA sequencing and transcriptome sequencing identified 261 miRNAs and 1892 genes to be significantly differentially expressed (DE), respectively. Pathway analysis indicated enrichment of EMT signaling, supported by NOTCH, mTOR, TNF receptor, and PI3K-mediated AKT signaling pathways, in chemoresistant cells. Validation by qRT-PCR confirmed upregulation of miR-10a-5p, miR-618, miR-99a-5p, and miR-935 and downregulation of miR-335-3p, miR-205-5p, miR-944, miR-130a-3p, and miR-429 in resistant cells. Pathway analysis that followed IPA analysis indicated that the dysregulation of these miRNAs and their target genes may be instrumental in the development and regulation of chemoresistance via p53 signaling, xenobiotic metabolism, and NRF2-mediated oxidative stress. This study concludes the interplay between miRNA and mRNA as an important aspect and occurrence in guiding the regulation, acquisition, and maintenance of chemoresistance in esophageal cancer in vitro.

The role of miR-200 family in the regulation of hallmarks of cancer

MiRNAs are short non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally contributing to the development of different diseases including cancer. The miR-200 family consists of five members, miR-200a, miR-200b, miR-200c, miR-141, and miR-429. Their expression is dysregulated in cancer tissue and their level is altered in the body fluids of cancer patients. Moreover, the levels of miR-200 family members correlate with clinical parameters such as cancer patients' survival which makes them potentially useful as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. MiRNAs can act as either oncomiRs or tumor suppressor miRNAs depending on the target genes and their role in the regulation of key oncogenic signaling pathways. In most types of cancer, the miR-200 family acts as tumor suppressor miRNA and regulates all features of cancer. In this review, we summarized the expression pattern of the miR-200 family in different types of cancer and their potential utility as biomarkers. Moreover, we comprehensively described the role of miR-200 family members in the regulation of all hallmarks of cancer proposed by Hanahan and Weinberg with the focus on the epithelial-mesenchymal transition, invasiveness, and metastasis of tumor cells.

LINC00365 inhibited lung adenocarcinoma progression and glycolysis via sponging miR-429/KCTD12 axis

This study researched the function of long non-coding RNA LINC00365 in lung adenocarcinoma (LAD) progression. LINC00365, miR-429, and KCTD12 expression in the LAD clinical tissues and cells were detcetd by qRT-PCR and Western blot. LINC00365, miR-429, and KCTD12 effects on H1975 cells malignant phenotype were detected by cell counting kit-8 assay, clone formation experiment, Transwell experiment, and glycolysis. Dual luciferase reporter gene assay and RNA pull-down assay were implemented. LINC00365 effect on H1975 cells in vivo growth was detected. LINC00365 was low expressed in the LAD patients and cells, associating with poor outcome. LINC00365 up-regulation attenuated H1975 cells proliferation, migration, invasion, glycolysis and in vivo growth. LINC00365 inhibited KCTD12 expression by sponging miR-429. miR-429 up-regulation and KCTD12 down-regulation partial reversed LINC00365 inhibition on H1975 cells malignant phenotype. Thus, LINC00365 inhibited LAD progression and glycolysis via targeting miR-429/KCTD12 axis. LINC00365 might be a potential candidate for LAD target treatment clinically.

MicroRNAs as the critical regulators of cell migration and invasion in thyroid cancer

Thyroid cancer (TC) is one of the most frequent endocrine malignancies that is more common among females. Tumor recurrence is one of the most important clinical manifestations in differentiated TC which is associated with different factors including age, tumor size, and histological features. Various molecular processes such as genetic or epigenetic modifications and non-coding RNAs are also involved in TC progression and metastasis. The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an important biological process during tumor invasion and migration that affects the initiation and transformation of early-stage tumors into invasive malignancies. A combination of transcription factors, growth factors, signaling pathways, and epigenetic regulations affect the thyroid cell migration and EMT process. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are important molecular factors involved in tumor metastasis by regulation of EMT-activating signaling pathways. Various miRNAs are involved in the signaling pathways associated with TC metastasis which can be used as diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers. Since, the miRNAs are sensitive, specific, and non-invasive, they can be suggested as efficient and optimal biomarkers of tumor invasion and metastasis. In the present review, we have summarized all of the miRNAs which have been significantly involved in thyroid tumor cells migration and invasion. We also categorized all of the reported miRNAs based on their cellular processes to clarify the molecular role of miRNAs during thyroid tumor cell migration and invasion. This review paves the way of introducing a non-invasive diagnostic and prognostic panel of miRNAs in aggressive and metastatic TC patients.

Immunomodulatory Properties of Human Breast Milk: MicroRNA Contents and Potential Epigenetic Effects

Infants who are exclusively breastfed in the first six months of age receive adequate nutrients, achieving optimal immune protection and growth. In addition to the known nutritional components of human breast milk (HBM), i.e., water, carbohydrates, fats and proteins, it is also a rich source of microRNAs, which impact epigenetic mechanisms. This comprehensive work presents an up-to-date overview of the immunomodulatory constituents of HBM, highlighting its content of circulating microRNAs. The epigenetic effects of HBM are discussed, especially those regulated by miRNAs. HBM contains more than 1400 microRNAs. The majority of these microRNAs originate from the lactating gland and are based on the remodeling of cells in the gland during breastfeeding. These miRNAs can affect epigenetic patterns by several mechanisms, including DNA methylation, histone modifications and RNA regulation, which could ultimately result in alterations in gene expressions. Therefore, the unique microRNA profile of HBM, including exosomal microRNAs, is implicated in the regulation of the genes responsible for a variety of immunological and physiological functions, such as FTO, INS, IGF1, NRF2, GLUT1 and FOXP3 genes. Hence, studying the HBM miRNA composition is important for improving the nutritional approaches for pregnancy and infant's early life and preventing diseases that could occur in the future. Interestingly, the composition of miRNAs in HBM is affected by multiple factors, including diet, environmental and genetic factors.

MAPKAPK5-AS1 drives the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma via regulating miR-429/ZEB1 axis

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common malignancy. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) partake in the progression of HCC. However, the role of lncRNA MAPKAPK5-AS1 in the development of HCC has not been fully clarified.

Methods

RNA sequencing data and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) were adopted to analyze MAPKAPK5-AS1, miR-429 and ZEB1 mRNA expressions in HCC tissues and cell lines. Western blot was used to detect ZEB1, E-cadherin and N-cadherin protein expressions. 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT), Transwell and flow cytometry assays were adopted to analyze the effects of MAPKAPK5-AS1 on cell proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis. Besides, luciferase reporter assay was used to detect the targeting relationship between miR-429 and MAPKAPK5-AS1 or ZEB1 3’UTR. The xenograft tumor mouse models were used to explore the effect of MAPKAPK5-AS1 on lung metastasis of HCC cells.

Results

MAPKAPK5-AS1 and ZEB1 expressions were up-regulated in HCC tissues, and miR-429 expression is down-regulated in HCC tissues. MAPKAPK5-AS1 knockdown could significantly impede HCC cell proliferation, migration, invasion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), as well as promote cell apoptosis. MAPKAPK5-AS1 overexpression could enhance L02 cell proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT, and inhibit cell apoptosis. MiR-429 was validated to be the target of MAPKAPK5-AS1, and miR-429 inhibitors could partially offset the effects of knocking down MAPKAPK5-AS1 on HCC cells. MAPKAPK5-AS1 could positively regulate ZEB1 expression through repressing miR-429. Moreover, fewer lung metastatic nodules were observed in the lung tissues of nude mice when the MAPKAPK5-AS1 was knocked down in HCC cells.

Conclusion

MAPKAPK5-AS1 can adsorb miR-429 to promote ZEB1 expression to participate in the development of HCC.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12860-022-00420-x.

MiR-429 Inhibits the Angiogenesis of Human Brain Microvascular Endothelial Cells through SNAI2-Mediated GSK-3β/β-Catenin Pathway

MicroRNA (miRNA) dysfunction has been confirmed as a key event of ischemic stroke appearance. This study is aimed at revealing the role of miR-429 in the angiogenesis of HBMECs. The HBMECs were treated with oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD) to establish the ischemic cell model. The qRT-PCR was used to measure the expression levels of the miR-429 in the serums of the patients or cells, and CCK-8, wound healing assay, and tube formation assay were used to observe the effects of miR-429 on the phenotype of HBMECs. Moreover, the Targetscan, dual-luciferase reporter assay, and Western blot were used to reveal the downstream target and regulation mechanism of miR-429 in OGD-induced HBMECs. The results showed that miR-429 was significantly upregulated in the serums of the patients, and overexpressed miR-429 could extremely inhibit the viability, migration, and tube formation of OGD-induced HBMECs. Furthermore, it was found that SNAI2 was a downstream factor of miR-429, and SNAI2 could rescue the effects of miR-429 on OGD-induced HBMECs. Besides, the Western blot showed that miR-429 could affect the activity of GSK-3β/β-catenin pathway via inhibiting the expression of SNAI2. In conclusion, this study suggests that miR-429 inhibits the angiogenesis of HBMECs through SNAI2-mediated GSK-3β/β-catenin pathway.

LncRNA LINC01303 Promotes the Progression of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinomas via the miR-429/ZEB1/EMT Axis

Objectives

The aim of this research was to uncover the biological role and mechanisms of LINC01303 in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Materials and Methods

Real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to determine LINC01303 expression in OSCC tissues. Subcellular distribution of LINC01303 was examined by nuclear/cytoplasmic RNA fractionation and FISH experiments. The role of LINC01303 in the growth of TSCCA and SCC-25 was examined by CCK-8 assay, colony formation, transwell invasion assay in vitro, and xenograft tumor experiment in vivo. Dual-luciferase reporter assay was used to verify the interaction between LINC01303 and miR-429. RNA pull‐down assay was used to discover miR-429‐interacted protein, which was further examined by qRT-PCR, western blot, and rescue experiments.

Results

LINC01303 expression was higher in OSCC tissues compared with adjacent nontumor tissues. LINC01303 was found to be localized in the cytoplasm of OSCC cells. Knockdown of LINC01303 inhibited OSCC cell proliferation and invasion, whereas increasing the expression of LINC01303 showed the opposite effects. Furthermore, LINC01303 served as a miR-429 “sponge” and positively regulated ZEB1 expression. Moreover, LINC01303 promoted OSCC through miR-429/ZEB1 axis both in vivo and in vitro.

Conclusions

LINC01303 plays an oncogenic role in OSCC and is a promising biomarker for OSCC patients.

Changes in Exosomal miRNA Composition in Thyroid Cancer Cells after Prolonged Exposure to Real Microgravity in Space

As much as space travel and exploration have been a goal since humankind looked up to the stars, the challenges coming with it are manifold and difficult to overcome. Therefore, researching the changes the human organism undergoes following exposure to weightlessness, on a cellular or a physiological level, is imperative to reach the goal of exploring space and new planets. Building on the results of our CellBox-1 experiment, where thyroid cancer cells were flown to the International Space Station, we are now taking advantage of the newest technological opportunities to gain more insight into the changes in cell–cell communication of these cells. Analyzing the exosomal microRNA composition after several days of microgravity might elucidate some of the proteomic changes we have reported earlier. An array scan of a total of 754 miRNA targets revealed more than 100 differentially expressed miRNAs in our samples, many of which have been implicated in thyroid disease in other studies.

Hsa-miR-330-5p Aggravates Thyroid Carcinoma via Targeting FOXE1

Background

Thyroid carcinoma (TC) is one of the frequent endocrine malignancies, and growing evidence suggests that aberrant microRNA (miRNA) expression contributes to TC development and progression. Nevertheless, the function of miR-330-5p in the progression of TC remains unknown.

Methods

The expression levels of miR-330-5 in patients with thyroid carcinoma and healthy controls were detected, and their potential diagnostic and prognostic values were analyzed.

Results

In this study, we firstly found that miR-330-5p expression was markedly upregulated in TC tissue and cell lines. Functionally, the downregulation of miR-330-5p suppressed TC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Further studies revealed that miR-330-5p negatively regulated the expression of forkhead box E1 (FOXE1). More importantly, the results of rescue experiments suggested that FOXE1 overexpression reduced the positive effects of miR-330-5p overexpression in TPC-1 and K-1 cells.

Conclusions

This work revealed that miR-330-5p facilitated the TC progression through targeting FOXE1, which may offer novel therapeutic options for TC.

miR-196a-2 Promotes Malignant Progression of Thyroid Carcinoma by Targeting NRXN1

Thyroid cancer (TC) is the most common endocrine malignant disease with a rising morbidity year by year. Accumulating studies have shown that microRNAs (miRNAs) play a regulatory role in the progression of various tumors, but the molecular regulatory mechanism of miR-196a-2 in TC is still unknown. qRT-PCR was employed to measure the expression of miR-196a-2 and NRXN1 mRNA in TC cells, while western blot was used to detect the protein expression of NRXN1. CCK-8, colony formation and flow cytometry assays were used to measure cell proliferation and apoptosis of TC cells. Dual-luciferase reporter gene assay was used to predict and verify the targeted binding relationship between miR-196a-2 and NRXN1. Our study results manifested that miR-196a-2 was dramatically overexpressed in cells of TC, while NRXN1 was lowly expressed. miR-196a-2 could promote cell proliferation and inhibit cell apoptosis of TC. Additionally, miR-196a-2 could also target and inhibit the expression of NRXN1. Silencing NRXN1 could reverse the inhibitory effect of miR-196a-2 downregulation on cell proliferation of TC, as well as the promoting effect on cell apoptosis. In a conclusion, we found that miR-196a-2 could promote cell proliferation and inhibit cell apoptosis of TC by targeting NRXN1. Therefore, miR-196a-2/NRXN1 is potential to be a molecular therapeutic target for TC.

MiR-429 prohibited NF-κB signalling to alleviate contrast-induced acute kidney injury via targeting PDCD4

MiR-429 was reported to be downregulated in contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI). However, whether miR-429 is functionally relevant with CI-AKI needs further investigation. Human renal tubular epithelial cell (HK-2) cells were stimulated with contrast media iodixanol to establish in vitro CI-AKI model. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) was applied to access cell viability. Flow cytometry was performed to determine apoptosis. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was applied to evaluate level of programmed cell death 4 (PDCD4) mRNA and miR-429 while western blot was applied to evaluate level of proteins including PDCD4, B-cell leukaemia/lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), BCL2-associated X protein (Bax), cleaved caspase 3, cleaved caspase 9, p65, phosphorylated p65. Dual luciferase assay was used to validate miR-429 targeting PDCD4. MiR-429 was downregulated whereas PDCD4 was upregulated in contrast media iodixanol-stimulated HK-2 cells. MiR-429 overexpression elevated cell viability and attenuated cell apoptosis. Moreover, the activation of nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) signalling was suppressed after miR-429 overexpression, while PDCD4 overexpression reversed these effects. MiR-429 directly targeted PDCD4 and negatively regulated its expression. CI-AKI induced NF-κB signalling activation and PDCD4 overexpression further promoted NF-κB signalling activation. However, the treatment of BAY11-7082 reversed above results. Overexpression of miR-429 attenuated apoptosis and elevated cell viability in a CI-AKI cell model via targeting PDCD4 and thus restraining NF-κB signalling.

Berberine inhibits the proliferation, invasion and migration of endometrial stromal cells by downregulating miR‑429

Endometriosis (EM) is a common gynecological disease, and its pathological process is accompanied by the migration and proliferation of uterine cells. Berberine (BBR) has been shown to exhibit antitumor activity; however, the effects of BBR on EM have seldom been reported to date. The expression of microRNA (miR)-429 is upregulated in EM and miR-429 can be used as a target for drug regulation of cancer cells. Whether BBR plays a regulatory role in EM by targeting miR-429 has not been reported. Thus, the aim of the present study was to determine the effects of BBR on EM cells. The survival rate of immortalized human endometrial stromal cells (HESCs) was determined using a Cell Counting Kit-8 assay. A colony formation assay was used to detect the rate of cell proliferation. The expression levels of proliferation-related proteins, including proliferation marker protein Ki-67 (Ki-67) and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), were detected by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) and western blotting. Wound healing and Transwell assays were performed to detect cell migration and invasion, and western blotting was used to detect the expression of the migration- and invasion-related proteins, including matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)2, MMP4 and MMP9. The expression of miR-429 was detected by RT-qPCR following its overexpression via cell transfection. The results revealed that treatment with 80 µM BBR significantly inhibited cell proliferation and colony formation, and inhibited the expression of Ki-67 and PCNA proteins in HESCs. BBR inhibited cell invasion and migration, as well as the expression of MMP2, MMP4 and MMP9. In this process, it was found that the expression of miR-429 decreased following treatment of the cells with BBR, whereas the inhibitory effects of BBR on cell proliferation, invasion and migration were suppressed following the overexpression of miR-429. Overall, the findings of the present study indicated that BBR inhibited the proliferation, invasion and migration of HESCs by downregulating the expression of miR-429.

Eupafolin inhibits breast cancer cell proliferation and induces apoptosis by inhibiting the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway

Eupafolin is a flavonoid extracted from common sage. Previous studies have reported that Eupafolin has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor effects. However, its role in breast cancer remains unclear. The present study investigated the effects and underlying mechanism of action of Eupafolin using breast cancer cell lines. The effects of Eupafolin on breast cancer cell proliferation, migration, apoptosis and the cell cycle were determined. Cell viability and Transwell assays, reverse transcription-quantitative PCR, flow cytometry and western blot analysis were used in this study. The data showed that the proliferation, migration and invasion ability of EO771 cells treated with Eupafolin was significantly decreased, and the apoptosis rate was increased compared with that of the control. The protein levels of Bax and cleaved caspase 3 increased, whereas that of Bcl-2 decreased. In addition, Eupafolin treatment also caused the proliferation of breast cancer cells to be arrested at the G₀/G₁ phase. Furthermore, results from western blotting indicated that Eupafolin treatment decreased the protein levels of p-PI3K, p-Akt and p-mTOR. Taken together, the present findings demonstrate that Eupafolin has a significant inhibitory effect on the proliferation of EO771 cells, inhibits cell migration and invasion, and promotes cell apoptosis, thereby causing G₀/G₁ phase arrest, at least partially through the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. Therefore, the findings provide novel insights regarding the use of Eupafolin for the treatment of breast cancer.

Small in Size, but Large in Action: microRNAs as Potential Modulators of PTEN in Breast and Lung Cancers

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are well-known regulators of biological mechanisms with a small size of 19–24 nucleotides and a single-stranded structure. miRNA dysregulation occurs in cancer progression. miRNAs can function as tumor-suppressing or tumor-promoting factors in cancer via regulating molecular pathways. Breast and lung cancers are two malignant thoracic tumors in which the abnormal expression of miRNAs plays a significant role in their development. Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) is a tumor-suppressor factor that is capable of suppressing the growth, viability, and metastasis of cancer cells via downregulating phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) signaling. PTEN downregulation occurs in lung and breast cancers to promote PI3K/Akt expression, leading to uncontrolled proliferation, metastasis, and their resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. miRNAs as upstream mediators of PTEN can dually induce/inhibit PTEN signaling in affecting the malignant behavior of lung and breast cancer cells. Furthermore, long non-coding RNAs and circular RNAs can regulate the miRNA/PTEN axis in lung and breast cancer cells. It seems that anti-tumor compounds such as baicalein, propofol, and curcumin can induce PTEN upregulation by affecting miRNAs in suppressing breast and lung cancer progression. These topics are discussed in the current review with a focus on molecular pathways.

miR-429-3p/LPIN1 Axis Promotes Chicken Abdominal Fat Deposition via PPARγ Pathway

To explore the regulatory mechanism of abdominal fat deposition in broilers, 100-day-old Sanhuang chickens (n = 12) were divided into high-fat and low-fat groups, according to the abdominal fat ratio size. Total RNA isolated from the 12 abdominal fat tissues was used for miRNA and mRNA sequencing. Results of miRNA and mRNA sequencing revealed that miR-429-3p was highly expressed in high-fat chicken whereas LPIN1 expression was downregulated. Further, we determined that miR-429-3p promoted preadipocyte proliferation and differentiation, whereas LPIN1 exerted an opposite effect. Notably, we found that the miR-429-3p/LPIN1 axis facilitated PPARγ pathway activation, which is closely associated with the progression of adipogenesis. In conclusion, our results provide evidence that a novel miR-429-3p/LPIN1 axis is involved in the regulation of adipogenesis, which may have a guiding role in the improvement of breeding for abdominal fat traits in broiler chickens.

Downregulation of miR-140 is Correlated with Poor Prognosis and Progression of Thyroid Cancer

BACKGROUND

The incidence of thyroid cancer is increasing rapidly and there is an urgent need to explore novel therapeutic targets for thyroid cancer. MiR-140 has been reported to affect the progression of various cancers, which makes it possible to play a role in thyroid cancer. This study aimed to investigate the expression and role of miR-140 in thyroid cancer.

METHODS

The expression of miR-140 was investigated by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) in thyroid cancer tissues and cell lines. The prognostic value of miR- 140 in thyroid cancer was evaluated by Kaplan-Meier survival and Cox regression. Moreover, the effects of miR-140 on cell proliferation, migration, and invasion of thyroid cancer were investigated by CCK-8 and Transwell assay.

RESULTS

MiR-140 was downregulated in thyroid cancer tissues and cells, which correlated with TNM stage and lymph node metastasis of patients. Patients with low miR-140 expression had a shorter survival time compared with that in patients with high miR-140 expression. Furthermore, miR-140 acts as an independent factor for the prognosis of thyroid cancer. Overexpression of miR-140 inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion of thyroid cancer.

CONCLUSION

MiR-140 can serve as a potential prognostic factor for patients with thyroid cancer and suppress the progression of thyroid cancer, which provides new insight for the therapeutic target for thyroid cancer.

MiR-663a, regulated by lncRNA GAS5, contributes to osteosarcoma development through targeting MYL9

Osteosarcoma is characterized by high malignancy and high metastasis rate, resulting in high mortality and disability. MiR-663a has been reported in a variety of tumors to promote tumorigenesis. However, miR-663a has not been reported in the pathogenesis of osteosarcoma. Bioinformatics analysis and experiments including real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), luciferase reporter, 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, Western blot, RNA immunoprecipitation, and flow cytometry assay were applied to explore the function and mechanism of miR-663a in MG63, U2OS, Saos-2, SF-86, and hFOB1.19 cells. In this study, we found that miR-663a is highly expressed in osteosarcoma. At the same time, we discovered that miR-663a facilitates cell proliferation and migration, whereas suppresses cell apoptosis in osteosarcoma. Through a series of biological experiments, it was found that miR-663a regulates the cellular process in osteosarcoma by modulating the expression of MYL9. In addition, we also found that long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) GAS5 serves as a molecular sponge for miR-663a and regulates the progression of osteosarcoma via the ceRNA mechanism. We uncover that miR-663a promotes osteosarcoma development through targeting MYL9, which was regulated by lncRNA GAS5.

miR-429 inhibits osteosarcoma progression by targeting HOXA9 through suppressing Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most commonly diagnosed malignant cancer of bone that occurs in adolescents and children. Mounting number of studies have indicated that miRNAs are increasingly playing fundamental roles in OS development. Thus, the biological function of miR-429 in OS progression was explored. The results of RT-qPCR revealed that miR-429 was downregulated in OS tissues and OS cell lines (MG-63, U2OS, Saos-2) while homeobox A9 (HOXA9) was markedly increased. Moreover, HOXA9 was confirmed as a direct target of miR-429 by using luciferase reporter assay. It was identified that miR-429 exhibited a suppressive effect on OS progression while HOXA9 showed the oncogenic function in OS progression by using MTT and Transwell assays. More importantly, rescue assays manifested that HOXA9 can partially overturn the suppressive effect of miR-429 on OS. Overexpression of miR-429 inhibited the activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. In conclusion, miR-429 suppressed OS progression by targeting HOXA9 through Wnt/β-catenin pathway.

The role of microRNAs in the pathogenesis of thyroid cancer

Thyroid cancer is the most frequent type of cancers originating from the endocrine system. Early diagnosis leads to good clinical outcome in differentiated types of thyroid cancer. Yet, there are few treatment options for patients with medullary or anaplastic thyroid cancer. Thus, identification of molecular markers that explain the pathologic process during evolution of this cancer has practical significance. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been shown to influence the activity of thyroid cancer-related signaling pathways such as MAPK pathway and RET gene. These small transcripts not only can differentiate malignant tissues from non-malignant tissues, but also have differential expression in different stages of thyroid cancer. Assessment of serum levels of miRNAs is a practical noninvasive method for follow-up of patients after thyroidectomy. Moreover, the therapeutic effects of a number of miRNAs have been verified in xenograft models of thyroid cancer. In the current review, we summarize the data regarding the role of miRNAs in thyroid cancer.

Long noncoding RNA SNHG22 increases ZEB1 expression via competitive binding with microRNA-429 to promote the malignant development of papillary thyroid cancer

Long noncoding RNA termed small nucleolar RNA host gene 22 (SNHG22) is a crucial regulator in epithelial ovarian carcinoma. Nevertheless, the regulatory functions of SNHG22 in papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) progression and its mechanisms of action remain poorly defined. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the role of SNHG22 in the malignant phenotype of PTC and determine whether SNHG22 regulates PTC progression via a ceRNA mechanism. SNHG22 expression in PTC was detected using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis. The biological actions of SNHG22 silencing in PTC cells were evaluated both in vitro (using Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, flow cytometry analysis, and cell migration and invasion assays) and in vivo (using tumorigenicity assay). Herein, high SNHG22 expression was observed in PTC tissues and cell lines. This high SNHG22 level was closely associated with unfavorable clinicopathological characteristics and worse overall survival in patients with PTC. SNHG22 knockdown effectively suppressed PTC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro; accelerated cell apoptosis; and hindered tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistic experiments revealed that SNHG22 directly interacts with microRNA-429 (miR-429) as an miRNA sponge and positively modulates ZEB1 expression. Rescue assays found that miR-429 inhibition or ZEB1 upregulation can offset the actions of SNHG22 knockdown in PTC cells. In sum, SNHG22, miR-429, and ZEB1 form an interactive regulatory network with cancer-promoting roles in PTC cells, suggesting that the SNHG22/miR-429/ZEB1 pathway is a novel diagnostic and therapeutic target.

MicroRNA-429/Cxcl1 Axis Protective Against Oxygen Glucose Deprivation/Reoxygenation-Induced Injury in Brain Microvascular Endothelial Cells

Objective:

The objective of the present work was to study the role of Cxcl1 in cerebral ischemia–reperfusion (I/R) injury and to in-depth explore its pathogenesis.

Methods:

The expression of Cxcl1 based on the public data was analyzed. Then, we constructed an oxygen glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) model in vitro using mice brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) to simulate cerebral I/R in vivo.

Results:

The results of quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction assay uncovered that Cxcl1 showed higher expression while miR-429 showed lower expression in BMECs damaged by OGD/R, whereas overexpression of Cxcl1 or inhibition of miR-429 expression can strengthen this effect. Hereafter, through dual luciferase reporter assay, we verified that miR-429 directly targets Cxcl1 and negatively regulates Cxcl1 expression. Furthermore, the results also revealed that overexpression of Cxcl1 can reverse the miR-429-mediated effects.

Conclusion:

We concluded that miR-429 exerts protective effects against OGD/R-induce injury in vitro through modulation of Cxcl1 and nuclear factor kinase B pathway, hoping provide a new view on the pathogenesis of cerebral I/R injury and a feasible potential therapeutic target.

Downregulation of miR-216a-5p by long noncoding RNA PVT1 suppresses colorectal cancer progression via modulation of YBX1 expression

Purpose

Increasing evidence has demonstrated that microRNAs (miRNAs) are closely related to the occurrence and development of tumors. MiR-216a-5p, located at 2p16.1, has been shown to suppress proliferation of cancerous cells. However, its expression and function in colorectal cancer (CRC) remain unclear.

Materials and methods

The significance of miR-216a-5p in CRC was studied by analyzing miR-216a-5p expression in CRC tissues and its association with clinicopathological parameters. CRC cells, stably overexpressing miR-216a-5p, were evaluated for cell proliferation and metastasis using cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) and transwell assay methods. Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) pathway was analyzed by Western blotting. Bioinformatics, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), and luciferase reporter assay were performed to define the regulation of PVT1/miR-216a-5p/Y Box Binding Protein 1 (YBX1) axis in CRC.

Results

The expression of miR-216a-5p was found to be significantly downregulated in CRC and was correlated with the various stages and differentiation degree of the tumors. Moreover, the overexpression of miR-216a-5p could significantly inhibit the tumor growth, metastasis, and EMT progression in CRC. Furthermore, the expression of miR-216a-5p was negatively correlated with the expression of PVT1, and PVT1 could reverse tumor suppressive effect of miR-216a-5p in CRC cells. Finally, YBX1 might be the key target of PVT1/miR-216a-5p axis in CRC.

Conclusion

Downregulation of miR-216a-5p by PVT1 could suppress CRC progression via modulating YBX1 expression.

Expression and Role of MicroRNAs from the miR-200 Family in the Tumor Formation and Metastatic Propensity of Pancreatic Cancer

MicroRNAs from the miR-200 family are commonly associated with the inhibition of the metastatic potential of cancer cells, following inhibition of ZEB transcription factors expression and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. However, previous studies performed in pancreatic adenocarcinoma revealed a more complex picture challenging this canonical model. To gain better insights into the role of miR-200 family members in this disease, we analyzed the expression of miR-200a, miR-200b, miR-200c, miR-141, miR-429, and miR-205, and ZEB1, ZEB2, and CDH1 in pancreatic tumors and matching normal adjacent parenchyma and patient-derived xenografts. We found that miR-200a, miR-429, and miR-205 are frequently overexpressed in pancreatic tumors, whereas CDH1 is downregulated, and ZEB1 and ZEB2 levels remain unchanged. Furthermore, we measured a positive correlation between miR-200 family members and CDH1 expression, and a negative correlation between ZEB1 and miR-200c, miR-141, and miR-205 expression, respectively. Interestingly, we identified significant changes in expression of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition regulators and miR-200 members in patient-derived xenografts. Lastly, functional studies revealed that miR-141 and miR-429 inhibit the tumorigenic potential of pancreatic cancer cells. Taken together, this comprehensive analysis strongly suggests that miRNAs from the miR-200 family, and in particular miR-429, may act as a tumor suppressor gene in pancreatic cancer.

Benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP) triggers the migration and invasion of hemangioma cells via upregulation of Zeb1

Hemangioma (HA) are tumors formed by hyper-proliferation of vascular endothelial cells. As a potential endocrine disrupting chemical (EDC), benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP) can mimic estrogen to disturb the estrogenic signals. Our present study investigated the potential roles of phthalates on the progression of HA and found that 100 nM BBP can significantly trigger the migration and invasion of HA cells, which was evidenced by the results that BBP can induce the expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs) and vimentin. Further, BBP can increase the expression of Zeb1, one powerful transcription factor for cell migration and invasion. Targeted inhibition of Zeb1 blocked BBP induced cell migration. Mechanistically, BBP can increase the mRNA stability of Zeb1 via suppression of miR-655. Further, BBP can enhance the protein stability of Zeb1 via upregulation of ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM). Collectively, our present study revealed that BBP can trigger the migration and invasion of HA cells via upregulation of Zeb1.

CircHMGCS1 is upregulated in colorectal cancer and promotes proliferation of colorectal cancer cells by targeting microRNA-503-5p

This study aims to explore the regulatory mechanism of circHMGCS1/microRNA-503-5p (miR-503-5p) axis during colorectal cancer (CRC) development and progression. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was applied to evaluate the expression of circHMGCS1 and miR-503-5p in CRC samples and their adjacent non-tumor specimen. Then, cell proliferation and cell apoptosis and migration and invasion of circHMGCS1-knocked down cells were further detected, using cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), flow cytometry, Transwell assay, and western blotting assays. CircHMGCS1 was found to be significantly upregulated in CRC, and its high expression was closely correlated with the poor clinical parameter. In addition, the knockdown of circHMGCS1 could significantly inhibit CRC cells’ growth promoting apoptosis, as suggested by the expression of apoptosis pathway-related proteins, which changed consistently. Furthermore, miR-503-5p inhibitors were able to reverse the suppression of cell proliferation induced by silencing circHMGCS1. Therefore, circHMGCS1 might serve as a promising bio-marker and treatment target for CRC.