Molecular mechanism of miR-204 regulates proliferation, apoptosis and autophagy of cervical cancer cells by targeting ATF2

ATF family members as therapeutic targets in cancer: From mechanisms to pharmacological interventions

The activating transcription factor (ATF)/ cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB) family represents a large group of basic zone leucine zip (bZIP) transcription factors (TFs) with a variety of physiological functions, such as endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, amino acid stress, heat stress, oxidative stress, integrated stress response (ISR) and thus inducing cell survival or apoptosis. Interestingly, ATF family has been increasingly implicated in autophagy and ferroptosis in recent years. Thus, the ATF family is important for homeostasis and its dysregulation may promote disease progression including cancer. Current therapeutic approaches to modulate the ATF family include direct modulators, upstream modulators, post-translational modifications (PTMs) modulators. This review summarizes the structural domain and the PTMs feature of the ATF/CREB family and comprehensively explores the molecular regulatory mechanisms. On this basis, their pathways affecting proliferation, metastasis, and drug resistance in various types of cancer cells are sorted out and discussed. We then systematically summarize the status of the therapeutic applications of existing ATF family modulators and finally look forward to the future prospect of clinical applications in the treatment of tumors by modulating the ATF family.

Transcriptome sequencing reveals non-coding RNAs respond to porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus and Haemophilus parasuis co-infection in Kele piglets

Co-infection with porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) and Haemophilus parasuis (HPS) has severely restricted the healthy development of pig breeding. Exploring disease resistance of non-coding RNAs in pigs co-infected with PRRSV and HPS is therefore critical to complement and elucidate the molecular mechanisms of disease resistance in Kele piglets and to innovate the use of local pig germplasm resources in China. RNA-seq of lungs from Kele piglets with single-infection of PRRSV or HPS and co-infection of both pathogens was performed. Two hundred and twenty-five differentially expressed long non-coding RNAs (DElncRNAs) and 30 DEmicroRNAs (DEmiRNAs) were identified and characterized in the PRRSV and HPS co-infection (PRRSV-HPS) group. Compared with the single-infection groups, 146 unique DElncRNAs, 17 unique DEmiRNAs, and 206 target differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in the PRRSV-HPS group. The expression patterns of 20 DEmiRNAs and DElncRNAs confirmed by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) were consistent with those determined by high-throughput sequencing. In the PRRSV-HPS group, the target DEGs were enriched in eight immune Gene Ontology terms relating to two unique DEmiRNAs and 16 DElncRNAs, and the unique target DEGs participated the host immune response to pathogens infection by affecting 15 immune-related Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment pathways. Notably, competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks of different groups were constructed, and the ssc-miR-671-5p miRNA was validated as a potential regulatory factor to regulate DTX4 and AEBP1 genes to achieve innate antiviral effects and inhibit pulmonary fibrosis by dual-luciferase reporter assays. These results provided insight into further study on the molecular mechanisms of resistance to PRRSV and HPS co-infection in Kele piglets.

Sirtuin1-p53: a potential axis for cancer therapy

Sirtuin1 (SIRT1) is a conserved nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD⁺)-dependent histone deacetylase that plays key roles in a range of cellular events, including the maintenance of genome stability, gene regulation, cell proliferation, and apoptosis. P53 is one of the most studied tumor suppressors and the first identified non-histone target of SIRT1. SIRT1 deacetylates p53 in a NAD⁺-dependent manner and inhibits its transcriptional activity, thus exerting action on a series of pathways related to tissue homeostasis and various pathological states. The SIRT1-p53 axis is thought to play a central role in tumorigenesis. Although SIRT1 was initially identified as a tumor promoter, evidence now indicates that SIRT1 may also act as a tumor suppressor. This seemingly contradictory evidence indicates that the functionality of SIRT1 may be dictated by different cell types and intracellular localization patterns. In this review, we summarize recent evidence relating to the interactions between SIRT1 and p53 and discuss the relative roles of these two molecules with regards to cancer-associated cellular events. We also provide an overview of current knowledge of SIRT1-p53 signaling in tumorigenesis. Given the vital role of the SIRT1-p53 pathway, targeting this axis may provide promising strategies for the treatment of cancer.

NEDD4L represses prostate cancer cell proliferation via modulating PHF8 through the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway

PURPOSE

Prostate cancer (PC) is a heterogeneous malignancy that greatly threatens man's health. E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase neural precursor cell expressed developmentally downregulated 4-like (NEDD4L) imparts an regulatory role in various malignancies. This study focused on the modulatory mechanism of NEDD4L in proliferation of prostate cancer cells (PCCs) via regulating histone demethylase plant homeodomain finger protein 8 (PHF8/KDM7B) through the ubiquitin-proteasome system.

METHODS

The expression levels of NEDD4L, PHF8, H3 lysine 9 dimethylation (H3K9me2) and activating transcription factor 2 (ATF2) in PC tissues and cell lines were detected via real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting. After transfection of pcDNA3.1-NEDD4L, pcDNA3.1-PHF8, and pcDNA3.1-ATF2 into PCCs, cell proliferation was assessed via the cell counting kit-8 and 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine assays. Interaction between NEDD4L and PHF8 was identified via the protein immunoprecipitation. The ubiquitination level of PHF8 was determined via the ubiquitination detection. The enrichments of H3K9me2 and PHF8 in the ATF2 promotor region were detected via the chromatin-immunoprecipitation assay.

RESULTS

PHF8 and ATF2 were highly expressed while NEDD4L was poorly expressed in PC tissues and cells. NEDD4L overexpression reduced proliferation of PCCs. NEDD4Linduced degradation of PHF8 via ubiquitination. PHF8 limited the enrichment of H3K9me2 in the ATF2 promotor region and enhanced ATF2 transcription. Upregulation of PHF8 or ATF2 abolished the inhibitory role of NEDD4L in proliferation of PCCs.

CONCLUSION

NEDD4L facilitated degradation of PHF8 to limit ATF2 transcription, thereby suppressing proliferation of PCCs.

Vitamin D Receptor Gene Polymorphisms and the Risk of CIN2+ in Shanxi Population

Cervical cancer is one of the most common malignancies in women with high morbidity and mortality. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the primary cause of cervical cancer, of which HPV 16 is the predominant. Early detection and effective treatment of cervical precancerous lesions are the key to preventing cervical cancer. Vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene polymorphism is considered to be an important cause of cancer development. Here, we studied the association of VDR polymorphisms (FOKI, BsmI, ApaI, and TaqI) in HPV16-positive cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN)2+ patients. HPV16-positive patients who visited the Colposcopy Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University for biopsy due to abnormal HPV and/or Thinprep cytologic test (TCT) from September 1, 2020 to October 1, 2021 were grouped by pathological results. The fasting blood samples were collected and VDR polymorphisms were detected using TaqMan fluorescent probes, and the three sites of BsmI-ApaI-TaqI were subjected to haplotype analysis. FOKI ff genotype (OR = 2.01; 95% CI = 1.12 - 3.59; p = 0.019) and f allele (OR = 1.48; 95% CI = 1.10 - 1.98; p = 0.009) were found to be associated with the risk of CIN2+. TaqI Tt genotype (OR = 2.03; 95% CI = 1.20 - 3.43; p = 0.008), tt genotype (OR = 2.09; 95% CI = 1.09 - 4.02; p = 0.028), and t allele (OR = 1.35; 95% CI = 1.01 - 1.80; p = 0.041) were associated with the risk of CIN2+. No haplotype was associated with CIN2+ risk. According to the results, FOKI and TaqI polymorphisms are associated with CIN2+ risk.

MicroRNA-204-5p: A pivotal tumor suppressor

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of non-coding single-stranded RNA molecules with a length of approximately 18-25 nt nucleotides that regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally. MiR-204-5p originates from the sixth intron of the transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily M member 3 (TRPM3) gene. MiR-204-5p is frequently downregulated in various cancer types and is related to the clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of cancer patients. So far, many studies have determined that miR-204-5p functions as a tumor suppressor for its extensive and powerful capacity to inhibit tumor proliferation, metastasis, autophagy, and chemoresistance in multiple cancer types. MiR-204-5p appears to be a promising prognostic biomarker and a therapeutic target for human cancers. This review summarized the latest advances on the role of miR-204-5p in human cancers.

Emerging roles of activating transcription factor (ATF) family members in tumourigenesis and immunity: Implications in cancer immunotherapy

Activating transcription factors, ATFs, are a group of bZIP transcription factors that act as homodimers or heterodimers with a range of other bZIP factors. In general, ATFs respond to extracellular signals, indicating their important roles in maintaining homeostasis. The ATF family includes ATF1, ATF2, ATF3, ATF4, ATF5, ATF6, and ATF7. Consistent with the diversity of cellular processes reported to be regulated by ATFs, the functions of ATFs are also diverse. ATFs play an important role in cell proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation and inflammation-related pathological processes. The expression and phosphorylation status of ATFs are also related to neurodegenerative diseases and polycystic kidney disease. Various miRNAs target ATFs to regulate cancer proliferation, apoptosis, autophagy, sensitivity and resistance to radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Moreover, ATFs are necessary to maintain cell redox homeostasis. Therefore, deepening our understanding of the regulation and function of ATFs will provide insights into the basic regulatory mechanisms that influence how cells integrate extracellular and intracellular signals into genomic responses through transcription factors. Under pathological conditions, especially in cancer biology and response to treatment, the characterization of ATF dysfunction is important for understanding how to therapeutically utilize ATF2 or other pathways controlled by transcription factors. In this review, we will demonstrate how ATF1, ATF2, ATF3, ATF4, ATF5, ATF6, and ATF7 function in promoting or suppressing cancer development and identify their roles in tumour immunotherapy.

The Autophagy Process in Cervical Carcinogenesis: Role of Non-Coding-RNAs, Molecular Mechanisms, and Therapeutic Targets

Autophagy is a highly conserved multistep lysosomal degradation process in which cellular components are localized to autophagosomes, which subsequently fuse with lysosomes to degrade the sequestered contents. Autophagy serves to maintain cellular homeostasis. There is a close relationship between autophagy and tumor progression, which provides opportunities for the development of anticancer therapeutics that target the autophagy pathway. In this review, we analyze the effects of human papillomavirus (HPV) E5, E6, and E7 oncoproteins on autophagy processes in cervical cancer development. Inhibition of the expression or the activity of E5, E6, and E7 can induce autophagy in cells expressing HPV oncogenes. Thus, E5, E6, and E7 oncoproteins target autophagy during HPV-associated carcinogenesis. Furthermore, noncoding RNA (ncRNA) expression profiling in cervical cancer has allowed the identification of autophagy-related ncRNAs associated with HPV. Autophagy-related genes are essential drivers of autophagy and are regulated by ncRNAs. We review the existing evidence regarding the role of autophagy-related proteins, the function of HPV E5, E6, and E7 oncoproteins, and the effects of noncoding RNA on autophagy regulation in the setting of cervical carcinogenesis. By characterizing the mechanisms behind the dysregulation of these critical factors and their impact on host cell autophagy, we advance understanding of the relationship between autophagy and progression from HPV infection to cervical cancer, and highlight pathways that can be targeted in preventive and therapeutic strategies against cervical cancer.

Unraveling diverse roles of noncoding RNAs in various human papillomavirus negative cancers

Human papillomavirus (HPV)-negative tumors distinguish from cancers associated with HPV infection. Due to its high rate of lymph node metastasis and difficulty in inchoate discover and diagnosis, the treatment efficacy of HPV-negative cancers is unsatisfactory. Epidemiological evidence suggests that HPV-negative tumor patients have a poor prognosis, and the mortality is higher than that of cancer patients caused by HPV infection. Evidence has demonstrated that noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) play a crucial role in regulation of physiological and developmental processes. Therefore, dysregulated ncRNAs are involved in the occurrence of diversified diseases, including cancer. In cumulative studies, ncRNAs are concerned with pathogenetic mechanisms of HPV-negative tumors via regulating gene expression and signal transduction. It is important to decipher the functions of ncRNAs in HPV-negative cancers and identify the potential biomarkers, which will bring new treatment strategies for improving outcome of cancer therapy. In this review, we demonstrated the effects of ncRNAs via regulating the development and progression of HPV- negative tumors by directly or indirectly acting on target molecules, which provide a basis for future tumor targeted therapy by targeting ncRNAs for HPV-negative cancers.

Activating transcription factor 2 promotes the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma by inducing the activation of the WHSC1-mediated TOP2A/PI3K/AKT axis

Activating transcription factor 2 (ATF2) is a tumor driver gene implicated in several human malignancies. This study aimed to determine the roles of ATF2 and its related molecules in the tumorigenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). According to the Pan-cancer bioinformatics system, ATF2 is highly expressed in HCC. An increase in the expression of ATF2 was identified in clinically collected tumor tissues and procured HCC cells. The silencing of ATF2 reduced the viability, colony formation, invasion, and death resistance of HepG2 and SNU-398 cells in vitro. ATF2 promoted the transcription of Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome candidate 1 (WHSC1) by binding to its promoter. WHSC1 further increased the expression of DNA topoisomerase II alpha (TOP2A) in HCC by inducing the dimethylation of histone H3 lysine 36 (H3K36me2) in the TOP2A promoter region. TOP2A activated the oncogenic PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Further overexpression of WHSC1 activated the TOP2A/PI3K/AKT axis and restored the malignant behaviors of HCC cells suppressed by ATF2 silencing in vitro. In summary, this study demonstrated that, depending on WHSC1, ATF2 can activate the TOP2A/PI3K/AKT signaling cascade to promote the tumorigenesis of HCC. ATF2, WHSC1, and TOP2A may serve as potential targets in managing HCC.

A cerebrospinal fluid microRNA analysis: Progressive supranuclear palsy

Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a neurodegenerative tauopathy described as a syndrome of postural instability, supranuclear vertical gaze palsy, dysarthria, dystonic rigidity of the neck and trunk, dementia, and pseudobulbar palsy. The clinical diagnosis of PSP is often difficult because there are no established biomarkers, and diagnosis is currently based on clinical and imaging findings. Furthermore, the etiology and pathogenesis of PSP remain unknown. Dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) has been reported to serve an important role in neurodegenerative diseases. However, the miRNA profiles of patients with PSP are rarely reported. The present study aimed to examine cerebrospinal fluid miRNAs, which are considered to be more sensitive indicators of changes in the brain, to elucidate the pathophysiology of PSP and to establish specific biomarkers for diagnosis. The present study used a microarray chip containing 2,632 miRNAs to examine cerebrospinal fluid miRNA expression levels in 11 patients with PSP aged 68–82 years. A total of 8 age- and sex-matched controls were also included. A total of 38 miRNAs were significantly upregulated and one miRNA was significantly downregulated in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with PSP. The patients were divided into two groups based on disease stage (early onset and advanced), and changes in miRNA expression were examined. The miRNAs that were most significantly upregulated or downregulated in the early onset group were miR-204-3p, miR-873-3p and miR-6840-5p. The target genes of these miRNAs were associated with molecules related to the ubiquitin-proteasome system and autophagy pathway. Furthermore, these miRNAs were found to target genes that have been reported to have epigenetic changes following an epigenome-wide association study of brain tissues of patients with PSP. This suggested that these miRNAs and genes may have some involvement in the pathogenesis of PSP. However, the sample size of the present study was small; therefore, a greater number of patients with PSP should be examined in future studies.

CircRNF121 knockdown suppresses the progression of cervical cancer by regulating miR-153-3p/ATF2 axis and wnt/β-catenin pathway

Cervical cancer (CC) is a common malignancy in gynecology. Emerging evidence has demonstrated that circular RNAs (circRNAs) act as vital mediators in CC. However, the roles of circRNA ring finger protein 121 (circRNF121) in CC are largely unknown. Herein, we focused on the exact function and underlying mechanism of circRNF121 in CC development. Our results showed that circRNF121 was highly expressed in CC tissues and cells. Knockdown of circRNF121 suppressed cell growth, metastasis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), autophagy, and wnt/β-catenin pathway in CC cells in vitro and blocked tumor formation in vivo. For mechanism investigation, circRNF121 could affect activating transcription factor 2 (ATF2) expression by decoying miR-153-3p, thereby accelerating CC cell development. In conclusion, circRNF121 exerted the tumor-suppressive role in CC progression by altering miR-153-3p/ATF2 axis. These results suggested that circRNF121 might be a possible circ-targeted therapy for patients with CC.

Cervical Cancer, Papillomavirus, and miRNA Dysfunction

Cervical cancer is the leading cause of death by cancer in women from developing countries. Persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) types 16 and 18 is a major risk factor for cervical carcinogenesis. Nevertheless, only a few women with morphologic expression of HPV infection progress into invasive disease suggesting the involvement of other factors in cervical carcinogenesis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are conserved small non-coding RNAs that negatively regulate gene expression including genes involved in fundamental biological processes and human cancer. Dysregulation of miRNAs has been widely reported in cervical cancer. This work focuses on reviewing the miRNAs affected during the HPV infection process, as well relevant miRNAs that contribute to the development and maintenance of malignant cervical tumor cells. Finally, we recapitulate on miRNAs that may be used to distinguish between healthy individuals from patients with precancerous lesions or cervical tumors.

Antagonist targeting miR‑106b‑5p attenuates acute renal injury by regulating renal function, apoptosis and autophagy via the upregulation of TCF4

Acute renal injury (ARI) is a life‑threatening condition and a main contributor to end‑stage renal disease, which is mainly caused by ischemia‑reperfusion (I/R). miR‑106b‑5p is a kidney function‑related miRNA; however, whether miR‑106b‑5p regulates the progression of ARI remains unclear. The present study thus aimed to examine the effects of miR‑106b‑5p antagonist on the regulation of ARI progression. It was found that miR‑106b‑5p expression was upregulated in the renal tissue of rats with I/R‑induced ARI and in NRK‑52E rat renal proximal tubular epithelial cells subjected to hypoxia‑reoxygenation (H/R). In vitro, H/R induction suppressed the proliferation, and promoted the apoptosis and autophagy of NRK‑52E cells, whereas miR‑106b‑5p antagonist (inhibition of miR‑106b‑5p) promoted the proliferation, and attenuated the apoptosis and autophagy of NRK‑52E cells under the H/R condition. Dual luciferase reporter gene assay validated that transcription factor 4 (TCF4) was a target of miR‑106b‑5p. It was further found that TCF4 overexpression promoted the proliferation, and inhibited the apoptosis and autophagy of NRK‑52E cells subjected to H/R. Moreover, the effects of miR‑106b‑5p antagonist on NRK‑52E cell proliferation, apoptosis and autophagy were mediated through the regulation of TCF4. In vivo, miR‑106b‑5p antagonist reduced the severity of renal injury, decreased cell proliferation in renal tissues and lowered the serum creatinine (Scr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels in the blood samples from rats with I/R‑induced ARI. On the whole, the findings presented herein demonstrate that miR‑106b‑5p antagonist attenuates ARI by promoting the proliferation, and suppressing the apoptosis and autophagy of renal cells via upregulating TCF4.

Cervical cancer development, chemoresistance, and therapy: a snapshot of involvement of microRNA

Cervical cancer (CC) is one of the leading causes of death in women due to cancer and a major concern in the developing world. Persistent human papilloma virus (HPV) infection is the major causative agent for CC. Besides HPV infection, genetic and epigenetic factors including microRNA (miRNA) also contribute to the malignant transformation. Earlier studies have revealed that miRNAs participate in cell proliferation, invasion and metastasis, angiogenesis, and chemoresistance processes by binding and inversely regulating the target oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes. Based on functions and mechanistic insights, miRNAs have been identified as cellular modulators that have an enormous role in diagnosis, prognosis, and cancer therapy. Signatures of miRNA could be used as diagnostic markers which are necessary for early diagnosis and management of CC. The therapeutic potential of miRNAs has been shown in CC; however, more comprehensive clinical trials are required for the clinical translation of miRNA-based diagnostics and therapeutics. Understanding the molecular mechanism of miRNAs and their target genes has been useful to develop miRNA-based therapeutic strategies for CC and overcome chemoresistance. In this review, we summarize the role of miRNAs in the development, progression, and metastasis of CC as well as chemoresistance. Further, we discuss the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of miRNAs to overcome chemoresistance and treatment of CC.

Tanshinone I inhibited growth of human chronic myeloid leukemia cells via JNK/ERK mediated apoptotic pathways

Tanshinone I (Tan I) is one of the main bioactive ingredients derived from Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge, which has exhibited antitumor activities toward various human cancer cells. However, its effects and underlying mechanisms on human chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) cells still require further investigation. This study determined the effects and mechanisms of anti-proliferative and apoptosis induction activity induced by Tan I against K562 cells. The cytotoxic effect of Tan I at varying concentrations on K562 cells was evaluated via MTT assay. Cell apoptosis was further investigated through DAPI staining and flow cytometry analysis. The expression levels of apoptosis-related proteins and activities of JNK/ATF2 and ERK signaling pathways were analyzed by western blot. Quantitative PCR was performed to further determine mRNA expression levels of JNK1/2 and ERK1/2 after Tan I treatment. The results indicated that Tan I significantly inhibited K562 cell growth and induced apoptosis in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. It induced significant cellular morphological changes and increased apoptosis rates in CML cells. Tan I promoted the cleavages of caspase-related proteins, as well as increased the expression levels of PUMA. Furthermore, Tan I significantly activated JNK and inhibited ATF-2 and ERK signaling pathways. The mRNA expression levels of JNK1/2 and ERK1/2 were up-regulated by Tan I, further confirming its regulatory effects on JNK/ERK signaling pathways. Overall, our results indicated that Tan I suppressed cell viability via JNK- and ERK-mediated apoptotic pathways in K562 cells, suggesting that it might be a promising candidate as a novel anti-leukemia drug.

The role of HPV-induced epigenetic changes in cervical carcinogenesis (Review)

Cervical cancer is associated with infection by certain types of human papillomaviruses (HPVs), and this affects women worldwide. Despite the improvements in prevention and cure of HPV-induced cervical cancer, it remains the second most common type of cancer in women in the least developed regions of the world. Epigenetic modifications are stable long-term changes that occur in the DNA, and are part of a natural evolutionary process of necessary adaptations to the environment. They do not result in changes in the DNA sequence, but do affect gene expression and genomic stability. Epigenetic changes are important in several biological processes. The effects of the environment on gene expression can contribute to the development of numerous diseases. Epigenetic modifications may serve a critical role in cancer cells, by silencing tumor suppressor genes, activating oncogenes, and exacerbating defects in DNA repair mechanisms. Although cervical cancer is directly related to a persistent high-risk HPV infection, several epigenetic changes have been identified in both the viral DNA and the genome of the infected cells: DNA methylation, histone modification and gene silencing by non-coding RNAs, which initiate and sustain epigenetic changes. In the present review, recent advances in the role of epigenetic changes in cervical cancer are summarized.

Identification of genes involved in neuronal cell death and recovery over time in rat axotomy and neurorrhaphy models through RNA sequencing

Facial nerves are frequently injured during cosmetic or other types of facial surgery. However, information on the genes involved in the damage and recovery of the facial nerves is limited. Here, we aimed to identify the genes affected by facial nerve injury and repair using next-generation sequencing. We established a rat axotomy model and a parallel epineurial neurorrhaphy model, in which gene expression was analyzed from 3 days to 8 weeks after surgery. We discovered that ARRB1, SGK1, and GSK3B genes associated with neuronal cell death were upregulated in the axotomy model. In contrast, MFRP, MDK, and ACE genes involved in neural recovery and regeneration exhibited higher expression in the neurorrhaphy model. In the present study, the analysis of the big data obtained from the next-generation sequencing (RNA-seq) technology reveals that the expression of genes involved in neuronal cell death is induced during nerve damage, and those associated with neural recovery are more abundantly expressed during repair processes. These results are considered to be useful for the establishment of the treatment of related diseases and basic research in various neuroscience fields by utilizing damage and recovery mechanism of facial nerves.

Interplay between SOX9 transcription factor and microRNAs in cancer

SOX transcription factors are critical regulators of development, homeostasis and disease progression and their dysregulation is a common finding in various cancers. SOX9 belongs to SOXE family located on chromosome 17. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) possess the capacity of regulating different transcription factors in cancer cells by binding to 3'-UTR. Since miRNAs can affect differentiation, migration, proliferation and other physiological mechanisms, disturbances in their expression have been associated with cancer development. In this review, we evaluate the relationship between miRNAs and SOX9 in different cancers to reveal how this interaction can affect proliferation, metastasis and therapy response of cancer cells. The tumor-suppressor miRNAs can decrease the expression of SOX9 by binding to the 3'-UTR of mRNAs. Furthermore, the expression of downstream targets of SOX9, such as c-Myc, Wnt, PI3K/Akt can be affected by miRNAs. It is noteworthy that other non-coding RNAs including lncRNAs and circRNAs regulate miRNA/SOX9 expression to promote/inhibit cancer progression and malignancy. The pre-clinical findings can be applied as biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis of cancer patients.

MicroRNAs in the regulation of autophagy and their possible use in age-related macular degeneration therapy

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive sight-impairing disease of the elderly. The pathogenic mechanisms of AMD are not well understood although both genetic and many environmental factors have been associated with the development of AMD. One clinical hallmark of AMD is the detrimental aggregation of damaged proteins. Recently, it has been suggested that the weakening of autophagy clearance is an important mechanism in the pathogenesis of AMD. Autophagy is important in the removal of damaged or no longer needed cellular material and its recycling. A considerable number of autophagy-targeting microRNAs (miRNAs), small RNA molecules and epigenetic regulators have been found to be either up- or down-regulated in AMD patients and experimental models. The important role of autophagy-targeting miRNAs is supported by several studies and can open the prospect of the use of these miRNAs in the therapy for AMD.

MicroRNA-204 plays a role as a tumor suppressor in Newcastle disease virus-induced oncolysis in lung cancer A549 cells

Tumor development and progression are closely associated with various microRNAs (miRNAs/miRs). We have previously shown that Newcastle disease virus (NDV) strain 7793 induces oncolysis in lung cancer. However, how NDV exerts its oncolytic effect on lung cancer remains to be investigated. The present study assessed the role of miR-204 in the NDV-induced oncolysis of lung cancer A549 cells by oncolysis induction in vitro. miR-204 was significantly upregulated in NDV-treated A549 cells. Overexpression or inhibition of miR-204 was significantly associated with NDV-induced oncolysis in A549 cells. Caspase-3 and Bax, major regulators of the apoptosis pathway, were regulated by miR-204, and the association between caspase-3-related apoptosis and miR-204 was identified in NDV-mediated oncolysis. These data demonstrated that miR-204 as a tumor suppressor played a role in NDV-induced oncolysis in lung cancer cells. The present study demonstrates the potential of strategies using miRs to improve oncolytic NDV potency, and highlights miR-204 as a tumor suppressor in NDV-induced oncolysis of lung cancer cells.

MiR-205 Promotes the Viability, Migration, and Tube Formation of Cervical Cancer Cells In Vitro by Targeting GATA3

Background: Both microRNA (miR)-205 and GATA Binding Protein 3 (GATA3) were involved in cervical cancer (CC), yet their correlation remained poorly understood. The authors' study aimed to unveil their correlation in CC. Materials and Methods: Clinical cervical tissue samples were collected. Survival rates of CC patients with high or low miR-205 and GATA3 expressions were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier curve. CC cell viability, migration, and tube formation were measured by cell counting kit-8 assay, scratch assay, and tube formation assay, respectively. The potential binding sites between miR-205 and GATA3 were predicted by TargetScan, and confirmed with dual-luciferase reporter assay. Relative expressions of miR-205, GATA3, vascular endothelial growth factor, E-cadherin, N-cadherin, and vimentin were quantified with quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blot as needed. Results: MiR-205 was increased, yet GATA3 was decreased in CC, indicating that they were negatively correlated. Upregulating miR-205 increased miR-205 expression and CC cell viability and promoted migration and tube formation, yet decreased GATA3 expression, while downregulating miR-205 exerted the opposite effects. GATA3 was the target gene of miR-205, and reversed the effect of miR-205 on GATA3 expression and cell viability, migration, and tube formation in CC cells by reversing the effects of miR-205 on migration- and tube formation-related protein expressions. Conclusion: MiR-205 promotes CC cell viability, migration, and tube formation in vitro by targeting GATA3, providing new evidence for the implication of miR-205 in CC and a possible therapeutic method for CC. Clinical Trial Registration number: ZLK-20181103-01.

ATF2 inhibits ani-tumor effects of BET inhibitor in a negative feedback manner by attenuating ferroptosis

BET inhibitor (BETi) has potential therapeutic effects on human cancer especially in breast cancer. However, the detailed mechanisms remain unclear. Herein, we found that BETi JQ1 and I-BET-151 (I-BET) activated ATF2 through JNK1/2 pathway in breast cancer cells MDA-MB-231 (MB-231). In addition, overexpression of ATF2 blocked the reduction of cell viability induced by JQ1 or I-BET in breast cancer MB-231 and BT-549 cells, cervical cancer HeLa cells and lung cancer A549 cells. The induction of cell death by BETi was also attenuated by ATF2 in MB-231 and BT-549 cells. By contrast, depletion of ATF2 increased cancer cell sensitivity to BETi. In MB-231 cells xenograft model, ATF2 significantly inhibited the anti-tumor effects of JQ1. By detection of the oxidized form gluthione, malondialdehyde and lipid ROS, we showed that overexpression of ATF2 inhibited ferroptosis induced by BETi, whereas depletion of ATF2 promoted ferroptosis by BETi. Furthermore, the underlying mechanisms of ATF2-reduced ferroptosis were investigated. Overexpressed and depleted ATF2 were found to significantly upregulate and downregulate NRF2 protein and mRNA expression, respectively. The significantly positive correlations between NRF2 and ATF2 gene expression were found in breast, lung and cervical cancer tissues from TCGA database. In NRF2-depleted MB-231 cells, ATF2 failed to attenuate JQ1-stimulated ferroptosis. All these results suggested that ATF2 inhibited BETi-induced ferroptosis by increasing NRF2 expression. Altogether, our findings illustrated ATF2 suppressed ani-tumor effects of BETi in a negative feedback manner by attenuating ferroptosis. BETi combined with ATF2 or NRF2 inhibitor might be a novel strategy for treatment of human cancer.

Regulation of autophagy by high- and low-risk human papillomaviruses

While high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) infection is related to the development of cervical, vulvar, anal, penile and oropharyngeal cancer, low-risk human papillomavirus (LR-HPV) infection is implicated in about 90% of genital warts, which rarely progress to cancer. The carcinogenic role of HR-HPV is due to the overexpression of HPV E5, E6 and E7 oncoproteins which target and modify cellular proteins implicated in cell proliferation, apoptosis and immortalization. LR-HPV proteins also target and modify some of these processes; however, their oncogenic potential is lower than that of HR-HPV. HR-HPVs have substantial differences with LR-HPVs such as viral integration into the cell genome, induction of p53 and retinoblastoma protein degradation, alternative splicing in HR-HPV E6-E7 open reading frames, among others. In addition, LR-HPV can activate the autophagy process in infected cells while HR-HPV infection deactivates it. However, in cancer HR-HPV might reactivate autophagy in advance stages. Autophagy is a catabolic process that maintains cell homoeostasis by lysosomal degradation and recycling of damaged macromolecules and organelles; nevertheless, depending upon cellular context autophagy may also induce cell death. Therefore, autophagy can contribute either as a promotor or as a suppressor of tumours. In this review, we focus on the role of HR-HPV and LR-HPV in autophagy during viral infection and cancer development. Additionally, we review key regulatory molecules such as microRNAs in HPV present during autophagy, and we emphasize the potential use of cancer treatments associated with autophagy in HPV-related cancers.

Integrated analysis of lncRNA, miRNA and mRNA reveals novel insights into the fertility regulation of large white sows

Background

Improving sow fertility is extremely important as it can lead to increased reproductive efficiency and thus profitability for swine producers. There are considerable differences in fertility rates among individual animals, but the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, by using different types of RNA libraries, we investigated the complete transcriptome of ovarian tissue during the luteal (L) and follicular (F) phases of the estrous cycle in Large White pigs with high (H) and low (L) fecundity, and performed a comprehensive analysis of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), mRNAs and micro RNAs (miRNAs) from 16 samples by combining RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) with bioinformatics.

Results

In total, 24,447 lncRNAs, 27,370 mRNAs, and 216 known miRNAs were identified in ovarian tissues. The genomic features of lncRNAs, such as length distribution and number of exons, were further analyzed. We selected a threshold of P < 0.05 and |log₂ (fold change)| ≥ 1 to obtain the differentially expressed lncRNAs, miRNAs and mRNAs by pairwise comparison (LH vs. LL, FH vs. FL). Bioinformatics analysis of these differentially expressed RNAs revealed multiple significantly enriched pathways (P < 0.05) that were closely involved in the reproductive process, such as ovarian steroidogenesis, lysosome, steroid biosynthesis, and the estrogen and GnRH signaling pathways. Moreover, bioinformatics screening of differentially expressed miRNAs that share common miRNA response elements (MREs) with lncRNAs and their downstream mRNA targets were performed. Finally, we constructed lncRNA–miRNA–mRNA regulation networks. The key genes in these networks were verified by Reverse Transcription Real-time Quantitative PCR (RT-qRCR), which were consistent with the results from RNA-Seq data.

Conclusions

These results provide further insights into the fertility of pigs andcan contribute to further experimental investigation of the functions of these genes.

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-204 inhibits invasion and metastasis of breast cancer cells by targeted regulation of HNRNPA2B1]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of miR-204 on the invasion and metastasis of breast cancer by targeted regulation of HNRNPA2B1.

METHODS

The bioinformatics database was used to obtain data of the expressions of miR-204 in breast cancer patients and the survival rate of the patients. RT-qPCR was used to detect the expression of miR-204 in breast cancer cell lines. The expression vector GV369-miR-204 was used to overexpress miR-204 in MDA-MB-231 cells. Transwell assay was performed to detect the effect of miR-204 on the migration and invasion ability of the breast cancer cells. The key genes (hub genes) of miR-204 were determined by bioinformatics method. A dual luciferase assay was used to analyze the targeting relationship between miR-204 and HNRNPA2B1. The expression of HNRNPA2B1 in MDA-MB-231 cells after miR-204 overexpression was detected by Western blotting, and Transwell assay was used to examine the changes in the cell invasion ability.

RESULTS

The expression of miR-204 was decreased in both breast cancer tissues, and was significantly lower in breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells than in MCF-10A cells (P < 0.05). The decreased expression of miR-204 was associated with poorer prognosis of breast cancer patients (P < 0.05). Upregulation of miR-204 in MDA-MB-231 cells significantly inhibited the invasion and migration of the cells (P < 0.05). Analysis of the data from the Starbase revealed that the expression of miR-204-5p was negatively correlated with the expression of HNRNPA2B1, and the expression of HNRNPA2B1 was increased in breast cancer patients (P < 0.05) in association with a poorer prognosis of the patients (P < 0.05). Dual luciferase assay demonstrated that miR-204 could bind to HNRNPA2B1 in a target-specific manner. Western blotting and Transwell assay showed that miR-204 significant inhibited the migration and invasion ability of breast cancer cells by targeting HNRNPA2B1 (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

miR-204 expression is decreased in breast cancer tissues and cells, and its overexpression can inhibit the invasion and metastasis of breast cancer cells by targeted regulation of HNRNPA2B1.

ADH7, miR-3065 and LINC01133 are associated with cervical cancer progression in different age groups

The aim of the present study was to identify potential therapeutic targets that serve crucial roles in the progression of cervical cancer. Clinical data, RNA sequencing (RNAseq)-counts and micro (mi)RNA data regarding cervical squamous cell carcinoma were retrieved from The Cancer Genome Atlas, and analyses were performed using the University of California Santa Cruz database. RNAseq and miRNA data were stratified into 3 groups (according to the patients' age), and genes were re-annotated and preprocessed prior to Mfuzz time clustering analysis. Subsequently, enrichment analyses were performed in order to identify differentially expressed mRNAs (DEmRNAs) and a protein-protein interaction analysis network was constructed. miRNA-gene, miRNA-lncRNA, and long non-coding (lnc)RNA-mRNA pairs were collected and the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA competing endogenous (ce)RNA network was established. Further enrichment analyses were performed in order to identify crucial mRNAs in the ceRNA network. Finally, survival and drug association analyses were implemented. A total of 269 DEmRNAs [including alcohol dehydrogenase 7 (ADH7), vestigial-like family member 3 (VGLL3) and cytochrome P450, family 26, subfamily B, polypeptide 1 (CYP26B1)], 274 DElncRNAs (including LINC01133) and 16 DEmiRNAs (including miR-3065 and miR-330) were identified. There were 102 lncRNAs, 15 miRNAs, 15 mRNAs and 522 interaction pairs in the ceRNA network. In particular, ADH7 was regulated by miR-3065, and miR-3065 interacted with LINC01133 in the ceRNA network. Furthermore, ADH7 and CYP26B1 were enriched in the retinoic acid metabolic process and the retinol metabolism pathway. ADH7 and VGLL3 were significantly associated with the cervical cancer survival rate. ADH7, VGLL3, CYP26B1, miR-3065, miR-330, miR-499a and LINC01133 play pivotal roles in the progression of cervical cancer in different age groups.