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Kelley CM, Maloney B, Beck JS, Ginsberg SD, Liang W, Lahiri DK, Mufson EJ, Counts SE. Micro-RNA profiles of pathology and resilience in posterior cingulate cortex of cognitively intact elders. Brain Commun 2024; 6:fcae082. [PMID: 38572270 PMCID: PMC10988646 DOI: 10.1093/braincomms/fcae082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) is a key hub of the default mode network underlying autobiographical memory retrieval, which falters early in the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD). We recently performed RNA sequencing of post-mortem PCC tissue samples from 26 elderly Rush Religious Orders Study participants who came to autopsy with an ante-mortem diagnosis of no cognitive impairment but who collectively displayed a range of Braak I-IV neurofibrillary tangle stages. Notably, cognitively unimpaired subjects displaying high Braak stages may represent cognitive resilience to AD pathology. Transcriptomic data revealed elevated synaptic and ATP-related gene expression in Braak Stages III/IV compared with Stages I/II, suggesting these pathways may be related to PCC resilience. We also mined expression profiles for small non-coding micro-RNAs (miRNAs), which regulate mRNA stability and may represent an underexplored potential mechanism of resilience through the fine-tuning of gene expression within complex cellular networks. Twelve miRNAs were identified as differentially expressed between Braak Stages I/II and III/IV. However, the extent to which the levels of all identified miRNAs were associated with subject demographics, neuropsychological test performance and/or neuropathological diagnostic criteria within this cohort was not explored. Here, we report that a total of 667 miRNAs are significantly associated (rho > 0.38, P < 0.05) with subject variables. There were significant positive correlations between miRNA expression levels and age, perceptual orientation and perceptual speed. By contrast, higher miRNA levels correlated negatively with semantic and episodic memory. Higher expression of 15 miRNAs associated with lower Braak Stages I-II and 47 miRNAs were associated with higher Braak Stages III-IV, suggesting additional mechanistic influences of PCC miRNA expression with resilience. Pathway analysis showed enrichment for miRNAs operating in pathways related to lysine degradation and fatty acid synthesis and metabolism. Finally, we demonstrated that the 12 resilience-related miRNAs differentially expressed in Braak Stages I/II versus Braak Stages III/IV were predicted to regulate mRNAs related to amyloid processing, tau and inflammation. In summary, we demonstrate a dynamic state wherein differential PCC miRNA levels are associated with cognitive performance and post-mortem neuropathological AD diagnostic criteria in cognitively intact elders. We posit these relationships may inform miRNA transcriptional alterations within the PCC relevant to potential early protective (resilience) or pathogenic (pre-clinical or prodromal) responses to disease pathogenesis and thus may be therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christy M Kelley
- Department of Translational Neuroscience and Neurology, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ 85013, USA
| | - Bryan Maloney
- Departments of Psychiatry and Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - John S Beck
- Departments of Translational Neuroscience and Family Medicine, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Stephen D Ginsberg
- Center for Dementia Research, Nathan Kline Institute, Orangeburg, NY 10962, USA
- Departments of Psychiatry, Neuroscience & Physiology, and the NYU Neuroscience Institute, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Winnie Liang
- Translational Genomics Research Institute, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA
| | - Debomoy K Lahiri
- Departments of Psychiatry and Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Elliott J Mufson
- Department of Translational Neuroscience and Neurology, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ 85013, USA
| | - Scott E Counts
- Departments of Translational Neuroscience and Family Medicine, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
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Zhou M, Li S, Huang C. Physiological and pathological functions of circular RNAs in the nervous system. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:342-349. [PMID: 37488888 PMCID: PMC10503630 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.379017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of covalently closed single-stranded RNAs that are expressed during the development of specific cells and tissues. CircRNAs play crucial roles in physiological and pathological processes by sponging microRNAs, modulating gene transcription, controlling the activity of certain RNA-binding proteins, and producing functional peptides. A key focus of research at present is the functionality of circRNAs in the nervous system and several advances have emerged over the last 2 years. However, the precise role of circRNAs in the nervous system has yet to be comprehensively reviewed. In this review, we first summarize the recently described roles of circRNAs in brain development, maturity, and aging. Then, we focus on the involvement of circRNAs in various diseases of the central nervous system, such as brain cancer, chronic neurodegenerative diseases, acute injuries of the nervous system, and neuropathic pain. A better understanding of the functionality of circRNAs will help us to develop potential diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic strategies to treat diseases of the nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Zhou
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shi Li
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chuan Huang
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
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3
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Li S, Qiu N, Ni A, Hamblin MH, Yin KJ. Role of regulatory non-coding RNAs in traumatic brain injury. Neurochem Int 2024; 172:105643. [PMID: 38007071 PMCID: PMC10872636 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2023.105643] [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: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a potentially fatal health event that cannot be predicted in advance. After TBI occurs, it can have enduring consequences within both familial and social spheres. Yet, despite extensive efforts to improve medical interventions and tailor healthcare services, TBI still remains a major contributor to global disability and mortality rates. The prompt and accurate diagnosis of TBI in clinical contexts, coupled with the implementation of effective therapeutic strategies, remains an arduous challenge. However, a deeper understanding of changes in gene expression and the underlying molecular regulatory processes may alleviate this pressing issue. In recent years, the study of regulatory non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), a diverse class of RNA molecules with regulatory functions, has been a potential game changer in TBI research. Notably, the identification of microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), circular RNAs (circRNAs), and other ncRNAs has revealed their potential as novel diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for TBI, owing to their ability to regulate the expression of numerous genes. In this review, we seek to provide a comprehensive overview of the functions of regulatory ncRNAs in TBI. We also summarize regulatory ncRNAs used for treatment in animal models, as well as miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs that served as biomarkers for TBI diagnosis and prognosis. Finally, we discuss future challenges and prospects in diagnosing and treating TBI patients in the clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shun Li
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, S514 BST, 200 Lothrop Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA; Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Na Qiu
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, S514 BST, 200 Lothrop Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA; Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Andrew Ni
- Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, 222 Richmond Street, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
| | - Milton H Hamblin
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California Riverside, 1212 Webber Hall, 900 University Avenue, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Ke-Jie Yin
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, S514 BST, 200 Lothrop Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA; Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA.
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4
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Beylerli O, Tamrazov R, Gareev I, Ilyasova T, Shumadalova A, Bai Y, Yang B. Role of exosomal ncRNAs in traumatic brain injury. Noncoding RNA Res 2023; 8:686-692. [PMID: 37860267 PMCID: PMC10582766 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2023.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a complex neurological disorder that often results in long-term disabilities, cognitive impairments, and emotional disturbances. Despite significant advancements in understanding the pathophysiology of TBI, effective treatments remain limited. In recent years, exosomal non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have emerged as potential players in TBI pathogenesis and as novel diagnostic and therapeutic targets. Exosomal ncRNAs are small RNA molecules that are secreted by cells and transported to distant sites, where they can modulate gene expression and cell signaling pathways. They have been shown to play important roles in various aspects of TBI, such as neuroinflammation, blood-brain barrier dysfunction, and neuronal apoptosis. The ability of exosomal ncRNAs to cross the blood-brain barrier and reach the brain parenchyma makes them attractive candidates for non-invasive biomarkers and drug delivery systems. However, significant challenges still need to be addressed before exosomal ncRNAs can be translated into clinical practice, including standardization of isolation and quantification methods, validation of their diagnostic and prognostic value, and optimization of their therapeutic efficacy and safety. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge regarding the role of exosomal ncRNAs in TBI, including their biogenesis, function, and potential applications in diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. We also discuss the challenges and future perspectives of using exosomal ncRNAs as clinical tools for TBI management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozal Beylerli
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China
- Translational Medicine Research and Cooperation Center of Northern China, Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China
| | - Rasim Tamrazov
- Department of Oncology, Radiology and Radiotherapy, Tyumen State Medical University, 54 Odesskaya Street, 625023, Tyumen, Russia
| | - 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, 450008, Russia
| | - Alina Shumadalova
- Department of General Chemistry, Bashkir State Medical University, Ufa, Republic of Bashkortostan, 3 Lenin Street, 450008, Russia
| | - Yunlong Bai
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China
| | - Baofeng Yang
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China
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Anchesi I, Schepici G, Mazzon E. LncRNAs and CircRNAs as Strategies against Pathological Conditions Caused by a Hypoxic/Anoxic State. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1622. [PMID: 38002304 PMCID: PMC10669691 DOI: 10.3390/biom13111622] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain damage can be induced by oxygen deprivation. It is known that hypoxic or anoxic conditions can lead to changes in the expression levels of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), which, in turn, can be related to Central Nervous System (CNS) injuries. Therefore, it could be useful to investigate the involvement of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), as well as the underlying mechanisms which are able to modulate them in brain damage induced by hypoxic or anoxic conditions. In this review, we focused on recent research that associates these conditions with long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs). The results of this review demonstrate that the expression of both lncRNAs and circRNAs can be influenced by oxygen deprivation conditions and so they can contribute to inducing damage or providing neuroprotection by affecting specific molecular pathways. Furthermore, several experimental studies have shown that ncRNA activity can be regulated by compounds, thus also modifying their transcriptomic profile and their effects on CNS damages induced by hypoxic/anoxic events.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Emanuela Mazzon
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi “Bonino-Pulejo”, Via Provinciale Palermo, Strada Statale 113, Contrada Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy
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Mohamadzadeh O, Hajinouri M, Moammer F, Tamehri Zadeh SS, Omid Shafiei G, Jafari A, Ostadian A, Talaei Zavareh SA, Hamblin MR, Yazdi AJ, Sheida A, Mirzaei H. Non-coding RNAs and Exosomal Non-coding RNAs in Traumatic Brain Injury: the Small Player with Big Actions. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:4064-4083. [PMID: 37020123 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03321-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays, there is an increasing concern regarding traumatic brain injury (TBI) worldwide since substantial morbidity is observed after it, and the long-term consequences that are not yet fully recognized. A number of cellular pathways related to the secondary injury in brain have been identified, including free radical production (owing to mitochondrial dysfunction), excitotoxicity (regulated by excitatory neurotransmitters), apoptosis, and neuroinflammatory responses (as a result of activation of the immune system and central nervous system). In this context, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) maintain a fundamental contribution to post-transcriptional regulation. It has been shown that mammalian brains express high levels of ncRNAs that are involved in several brain physiological processes. Furthermore, altered levels of ncRNA expression have been found in those with traumatic as well non-traumatic brain injuries. The current review highlights the primary molecular mechanisms participated in TBI that describes the latest and novel results about changes and role of ncRNAs in TBI in both clinical and experimental research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omid Mohamadzadeh
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsasadat Hajinouri
- Department of Psychiatry, Roozbeh Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Moammer
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | | | | | - Ameneh Jafari
- Advanced Therapy Medicinal Product (ATMP) Department, Breast Cancer Research Center, Motamed Cancer Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Proteomics Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirreza Ostadian
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | | | - Michael R Hamblin
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Science, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein, 2028, South Africa
| | | | - Amirhossein Sheida
- School of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.
- Student Research Committee, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.
| | - Hamed Mirzaei
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Islamic Republic of Iran.
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Zhang X, Ma Y, Zhou F, Zhang M, Zhao D, Wang X, Yang T, Ma J. Identification of miRNA-mRNA regulatory network associated with the glutamatergic system in post-traumatic epilepsy rats. Front Neurol 2022; 13:1102672. [PMID: 36619916 PMCID: PMC9822725 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.1102672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Glutamate is one of the most important excitatory neurotransmitters in the mammalian brain and is involved in a variety of neurological disorders. Increasing evidence also shows that microRNA (miRNA) and mRNA pairs are engaged in a variety of pathophysiological processes. However, the miRNA and mRNA pairs that affect the glutamatergic system in post-traumatic epilepsy (PTE) remain unknown. Methods PTE rats were induced by injecting 0.1 mol/L, 1 μL/min FeCl2 solution. Behavioral scores and EEG monitoring were used to evaluate whether PTE was successfully induced. RNA-seq was used to obtain mRNA and miRNA expression profiles. Bioinformatics analysis was performed to screen differentially expressed mRNAs and miRNAs associated with the glutamatergic system and then predict miRNA-mRNA interaction pairs. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription PCR was used to further validate the expression of the differential miRNAs and mRNAs. The microRNA-mRNA was subject to the Pearson correlation analysis. Results Eight of the 91 differentially expressed mRNAs were associated with the glutamatergic system, of which six were upregulated and two were downregulated. Forty miRNAs were significantly differentially expressed, with 14 upregulated and 26 downregulated genes. The predicted miRNA-mRNA interaction network shows that five of the eight differentially expressed mRNAs associated with the glutamatergic system were targeted by multiple miRNAs, including Slc17a6, Mef2c, Fyn, Slc25a22, and Shank2, while the remaining three mRNAs were not targeted by any miRNAs. Of the 40 differentially expressed miRNAs, seven miRNAs were found to have multiple target mRNAs associated with the glutamatergic system. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription PCR validation and Pearson correlation analysis were performed on these seven targeted miRNAs-Slc17a6, Mef2c, Fyn, Slc25a22, and Shank2-and six additional miRNAs selected from the literature. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription PCR showed that the expression levels of the mRNAs and miRNAs agreed with the predictions in the study. Among them, the miR-98-5p-Slc17a6, miR-335-5p-Slc17a6, miR-30e-5p-Slc17a6, miR-1224-Slc25a22, and miR-211-5p-Slc25a22 pairs were verified to have negative correlations. Conclusions Our results indicate that miRNA-mRNA interaction pairs associated with the glutamatergic system are involved in the development of PTE and have potential as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for PTE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyuan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Evidence Science, Institute of Evidence Law and Forensic Science, China University of Political Science and Law, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China,Collaborative Innovation Center of Judicial Civilization, Beijing, China
| | - Yixun Ma
- College of Biological Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China,Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing, China
| | - Fengjuan Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Evidence Science, Institute of Evidence Law and Forensic Science, China University of Political Science and Law, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China,Collaborative Innovation Center of Judicial Civilization, Beijing, China
| | - Mengzhou Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Evidence Science, Institute of Evidence Law and Forensic Science, China University of Political Science and Law, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China,Collaborative Innovation Center of Judicial Civilization, Beijing, China
| | - Dong Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Evidence Science, Institute of Evidence Law and Forensic Science, China University of Political Science and Law, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China,Collaborative Innovation Center of Judicial Civilization, Beijing, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Evidence Science, Institute of Evidence Law and Forensic Science, China University of Political Science and Law, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China,Collaborative Innovation Center of Judicial Civilization, Beijing, China
| | - Tiantong Yang
- Key Laboratory of Evidence Science, Institute of Evidence Law and Forensic Science, China University of Political Science and Law, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China,Collaborative Innovation Center of Judicial Civilization, Beijing, China,Tiantong Yang ✉
| | - Jun Ma
- Key Laboratory of Evidence Science, Institute of Evidence Law and Forensic Science, China University of Political Science and Law, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China,Department of Radiology, Chui Yang Liu Hospital Affiliated to Tsinghua University, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Jun Ma ✉
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8
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Fu J, Zhou Q, Wu B, Huang X, Tang Z, Tan W, Zhu Z, Du M, Wu C, Ma J, Balawi E, Liao ZB. Protective effects and regulatory pathways of melatonin in traumatic brain injury mice model: Transcriptomics and bioinformatics analysis. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:974060. [PMID: 36157079 PMCID: PMC9500234 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.974060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the leading cause of disability and mortality globally. Melatonin (Mel) is a neuroendocrine hormone synthesized from the pineal gland that protects against TBI. Yet, the precise mechanism of action is not fully understood. In this study, we examined the protective effect and regulatory pathways of melatonin in the TBI mice model using transcriptomics and bioinformatics analysis. The expression profiles of mRNA, long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), microRNA (miRNA), and circular RNA (circRNA) were constructed using the whole transcriptomes sequencing technique. In total, 93 differentially expressed (DE) mRNAs (DEmRNAs), 48 lncRNAs (DElncRNAs), 59 miRNAs (DEmiRNAs), and 59 circRNAs (DEcircRNAs) were identified by the TBI mice with Mel treatment compared to the group without drug intervention. The randomly selected coding RNAs and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) were identified by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). To further detect the biological functions and potential pathways of those differentially expressed RNAs, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Gene Ontology (GO) analyses were executed. In our research, the regulatory network was constructed to show the relationship of lncRNA-RBPs. The lncRNA-mRNA co-expression network was established based on the Pearson coefficient to indicate the expression correlations. Moreover, the DEcircRNA–DEmiRNA–DEmRNA and DElncRNA–DEmiRNA–DEmRNA regulatory networks were constructed to demonstrate the regulatory relationship between ncRNAs and mRNA. Finally, to further verify our predicted results, cytoHubba was used to find the hub gene in the synaptic vesicle cycle pathway, and the expression level of SNAP-25 and VAMP-2 after melatonin treatment were detected by Western blotting and immunofluorescence. To sum up, these data offer a new insight regarding the molecular effect of melatonin treatment after TBI and suggest that the high-throughput sequencing and analysis of transcriptomes are useful for studying the drug mechanisms in treatment after TBI.
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Kelley CM, Ginsberg SD, Liang WS, Counts SE, Mufson EJ. Posterior cingulate cortex reveals an expression profile of resilience in cognitively intact elders. Brain Commun 2022; 4:fcac162. [PMID: 35813880 PMCID: PMC9263888 DOI: 10.1093/braincomms/fcac162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The posterior cingulate cortex, a key hub of the default mode network, underlies autobiographical memory retrieval and displays hypometabolic changes early in Alzheimer disease. To obtain an unbiased understanding of the molecular pathobiology of the aged posterior cingulate cortex, we performed RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) on tissue obtained from 26 participants of the Rush Religious Orders Study (11 males/15 females; aged 76-96 years) with a pre-mortem clinical diagnosis of no cognitive impairment and post-mortem neurofibrillary tangle Braak Stages I/II, III, and IV. Transcriptomic data were gathered using next-generation sequencing of RNA extracted from posterior cingulate cortex generating an average of 60 million paired reads per subject. Normalized expression of RNA-seq data was calculated using a global gene annotation and a microRNA profile. Differential expression (DESeq2, edgeR) using Braak staging as the comparison structure isolated genes for dimensional scaling, associative network building and functional clustering. Curated genes were correlated with the Mini-Mental State Examination and semantic, working and episodic memory, visuospatial ability, and a composite Global Cognitive Score. Regulatory mechanisms were determined by co-expression networks with microRNAs and an overlap of transcription factor binding sites. Analysis revealed 750 genes and 12 microRNAs significantly differentially expressed between Braak Stages I/II and III/IV and an associated six groups of transcription factor binding sites. Inputting significantly different gene/network data into a functional annotation clustering model revealed elevated presynaptic, postsynaptic and ATP-related expression in Braak Stages III and IV compared with Stages I/II, suggesting these pathways are integral for cognitive resilience seen in unimpaired elderly subjects. Principal component analysis and Kruskal-Wallis testing did not associate Braak stage with cognitive function. However, Spearman correlations between genes and cognitive test scores followed by network analysis revealed upregulation of classes of synaptic genes positively associated with performance on the visuospatial perceptual orientation domain. Upregulation of key synaptic genes suggests a role for these transcripts and associated synaptic pathways in cognitive resilience seen in elders despite Alzheimer disease pathology and dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christy M Kelley
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ 85013, USA
- Department of Neurology, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ 85013, USA
| | - Stephen D Ginsberg
- Center for Dementia Research, Nathan Kline Institute, Orangeburg, NY 10962, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
- Department of Neuroscience & Physiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
- NYU Neuroscience Institute, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Winnie S Liang
- Translational Genomics Research Institute, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA
| | - Scott E Counts
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
- Department of Family Medicine, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Elliott J Mufson
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ 85013, USA
- Department of Neurology, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ 85013, USA
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Zheng P, Ren D, Yu C, Zhang X, Zhang Y. DNA Methylation-Related circRNA_0116449 Is Involved in Lipid Peroxidation in Traumatic Brain Injury. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:904913. [PMID: 35721315 PMCID: PMC9201693 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.904913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Circular ribonucleic acid (circRNA) has a critical effect in central nervous diseases; however, the exact role of circRNAs in human traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains elusive. Epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation, can modify the mRNA level of genes without changing their related DNA sequence in response to brain insults. We hypothesized that DNA methylation-related circRNAs may be implicated in the mechanisms of TBI. The methylation-related circ_0116449 was identified from differential methylation positions and shown to reduce the neuronal loss and lipid markers. Mechanical study indicated that circ_0116449 functions as a miR-142-3p sponge and increases the expression of its target gene: NR1D2, together with NR1D1 and RORA to suppress lipid peroxidation both in vitro and in vivo. Our study suggests that DNA methylation-related circ_0116449 may be a novel target for regulating lipid metabolism in TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shanghai Pudong New Area People’s Hospital, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Ping Zheng,
| | - Dabin Ren
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shanghai Pudong New Area People’s Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Cong Yu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shanghai Pudong New Area People’s Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoxue Zhang
- Department of Key Laboratory, Shanghai Pudong New Area People’s Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Yisong Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shanghai Pudong New Area People’s Hospital, Shanghai, China
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11
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Arruri V, Vemuganti R. Role of autophagy and transcriptome regulation in acute brain injury. Exp Neurol 2022; 352:114032. [PMID: 35259350 PMCID: PMC9187300 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2022.114032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved intracellular system that routes distinct cytoplasmic cargo to lysosomes for degradation and recycling. Accumulating evidence highlight the mechanisms of autophagy, such as clearance of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids and damaged organelles. The critical role of autophagy in selective degradation of the transcriptome is still emerging and could shape the total proteome of the cell, and thus can regulate the homeostasis under stressful conditions. Unregulated autophagy that potentiates secondary brain damage is a key pathological features of acute CNS injuries such as stroke and traumatic brain injury. This review discussed the mutual modulation of autophagy and RNA and its significance in mediating the functional consequences of acute CNS injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijay Arruri
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Raghu Vemuganti
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA; William S. Middleton Memorial Veteran Administration Hospital, Madison, WI, USA.
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12
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circHtra1/miR-3960/GRB10 Axis Promotes Neuronal Loss and Immune Deficiency in Traumatic Brain Injury. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:3522492. [PMID: 35571247 PMCID: PMC9106453 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3522492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are abundant in the brain and contribute to central nervous system diseases; however, the exact roles of circRNAs in human traumatic brain injury (TBI) have not been established. In this study, we used a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) chipset as well as in vitro and in vivo assays to characterize differentially expressed circRNAs in TBI. We detected 3035 differentially expressed circRNAs in the severe TBI group, 2362 in the moderate group, and 433 in the mild group. A ceRNA network was constructed. The circRNA has_circ_0020269 (circHtra1) was significantly upregulated after brain insults and was correlated with the severity of injury. circHtra1 inhibited cell proliferation and promoted apoptosis, and its knockdown reversed these effects. Further analyses revealed that circHtra1 functions as a miR-3960 sponge and increases the expression of GRB10, which is involved in NK cell infiltration after TBI. circHtra1 was identified as a target of the IGF-1/ADAR1 axis. Reduced expression of ADAR1 (involved in A-to-I editing) after brain insults upregulated circHtra1. Our results show that circHtra1 promotes neuronal loss by sponging miR-3960 and regulating GRB10 and apoptosis during brain insults. In addition, A-to-I editing could regulate circRNA expression profiles after TBI, and circHtra1 is a potential therapeutic target.
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13
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Wang C, Luo Y, Tang H, Yan Y, Chang X, Zhao R, Li Q, Yang P, Hong B, Xu Y, Huang Q, Liu J. Hsa_circ_0031608: A Potential Modulator of VSMC Phenotype in the Rupture of Intracranial Aneurysms. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:842865. [PMID: 35359572 PMCID: PMC8963354 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.842865] [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: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose Phenotypic modulation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) plays an important role in the development of intracranial aneurysms (IAs). Growing evidence has demonstrated that circular RNAs (circRNAs) may serve as a potential modulator of VSMC phenotype in various vascular diseases. This study aimed to assess the potential function of circRNAs in the rupture of IAs and VSMC phenotypic modulation. Methods Using surgically dissected human ruptured (n = 8) and unruptured (n = 8) IA lesions, differentially expressed circRNAs were screened by transcriptomic sequencing and verified using qRT-PCR. Based on the screened circRNA, we predicted and screened the combined miRNA and downstream mRNAs to construct circRNA-miRNA-mRNA networks. Further in vitro experiments were performed to investigate the relationship between the validated circRNA and the phenotypic switching of VSMCs. Results We found 1,373 differentially expressed genes in ruptured versus unruptured aneurysms. The top five dysregulated circRNAs were selected for qRT-PCR validation. We found hsa_circ_0031608 was both highly expressed in ruptured IAs and pro-inflammatory transformation of VSMCs. Then, a regulatory circRNA-miRNA-mRNA with one circRNA node, six miRNA nodes, and 84 mRNA nodes was constructed. GO analysis and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis were performed on mRNAs in the network. Then, a PPI network was built based on these mRNAs and five hub genes were identified (FOXO3, DICER1, CCND2, IGF1R, and TNRC6B) by the cytoHubba plugin in Cytoscape software. In vitro, overexpression of hsa_circ_0031608 influenced the expression of VSMC phenotypic markers validated by qPCR and Western blotting. Furthermore, hsa_circ_0031608 promoted the migration and proliferation capacity of VSMCs. Conclusion hsa_circ_0031608 regulated the phenotypic modulation of VSMCs and played an important role in the rupture of IAs. The specific mechanism should be further studied and confirmed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanchuan Wang
- Neurovascular Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yin Luo
- Neurovascular Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Haishuang Tang
- Neurovascular Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Naval Medical Center of PLA, Shanghai, China
| | - Yazhou Yan
- Neurovascular Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, 971 Hospital of PLA, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiaozan Chang
- Neurovascular Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Rui Zhao
- Neurovascular Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiang Li
- Neurovascular Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Pengfei Yang
- Neurovascular Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bo Hong
- Neurovascular Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Xu
- Neurovascular Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qinghai Huang
- Neurovascular Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianmin Liu
- Neurovascular Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
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14
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Insights into the multifaceted role of circular RNAs: implications for Parkinson's disease pathogenesis and diagnosis. NPJ Parkinsons Dis 2022; 8:7. [PMID: 35013342 PMCID: PMC8748951 DOI: 10.1038/s41531-021-00265-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a complex, age-related, neurodegenerative disease whose etiology, pathology, and clinical manifestations remain incompletely understood. As a result, care focuses primarily on symptoms relief. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a large class of mostly noncoding RNAs that accumulate with aging in the brain and are increasingly shown to regulate all aspects of neuronal and glial development and function. They are generated by the spliceosome through the backsplicing of linear RNA. Although their biological role remains largely unknown, they have been shown to regulate transcription and splicing, act as decoys for microRNAs and RNA binding proteins, used as templates for translation, and serve as scaffolding platforms for signaling components. Considering that they are stable, diverse, and detectable in easily accessible biofluids, they are deemed promising biomarkers for diagnosing diseases. CircRNAs are differentially expressed in the brain of patients with PD, and growing evidence suggests that they regulate PD pathogenetic processes. Here, the biogenesis, expression, degradation, and detection of circRNAs, as well as their proposed functions, are reviewed. Thereafter, research linking circRNAs to PD-related processes, including aging, alpha-synuclein dysregulation, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress is highlighted, followed by recent evidence for their use as prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers for PD.
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Catta-Preta R, Zdilar I, Jenner B, Doisy ET, Tercovich K, Nord AS, Gurkoff GG. Transcriptional Pathology Evolves over Time in Rat Hippocampus after Lateral Fluid Percussion Traumatic Brain Injury. Neurotrauma Rep 2021; 2:512-525. [PMID: 34909768 PMCID: PMC8667199 DOI: 10.1089/neur.2021.0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) causes acute and lasting impacts on the brain, driving pathology along anatomical, cellular, and behavioral dimensions. Rodent models offer an opportunity to study the temporal progression of disease from injury to recovery. Transcriptomic and epigenomic analysis were applied to evaluate gene expression in ipsilateral hippocampus at 1 and 14 days after sham (n = 2 and 4, respectively per time point) and moderate lateral fluid percussion injury (n = 4 per time point). This enabled the identification of dynamic changes and differential gene expression (differentially expressed genes; DEGs) modules linked to underlying epigenetic response. We observed acute signatures associated with cell death, astrocytosis, and neurotransmission that largely recovered by 2 weeks. Inflammation and immune signatures segregated into upregulated modules with distinct expression trajectories and functions. Whereas most down-regulated genes recovered by 14 days, two modules with delayed and persistent changes were associated with cholesterol metabolism, amyloid beta clearance, and neurodegeneration. Differential expression was paralleled by changes in histone H3 lysine residue 4 trimethylation at the promoters of DEGs at 1 day post-TBI, with the strongest changes observed for inflammation and immune response genes. These results demonstrate how integrated genomics analysis in the pre-clinical setting has the potential to identify stage-specific biomarkers for injury and/or recovery. Though limited in scope here, our general strategy has the potential to capture pathological signatures over time and evaluate treatment efficacy at the systems level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rinaldo Catta-Preta
- Department of Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
- Center for Neuroscience, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Iva Zdilar
- Department of Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
- Center for Neuroscience, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Bradley Jenner
- Department of Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
- Center for Neuroscience, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Emily T. Doisy
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Kayleen Tercovich
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
- Center for Neuroscience, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Alex S. Nord
- Department of Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
- Center for Neuroscience, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Gene G. Gurkoff
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
- Center for Neuroscience, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
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16
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Mehta SL, Chokkalla AK, Vemuganti R. Noncoding RNA crosstalk in brain health and diseases. Neurochem Int 2021; 149:105139. [PMID: 34280469 PMCID: PMC8387393 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2021.105139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian brain expresses several classes of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), including long ncRNAs (lncRNAs), circular RNAs (circRNAs), and microRNAs (miRNAs). These ncRNAs play vital roles in regulating cellular processes by RNA/protein scaffolding, sponging and epigenetic modifications during the pathophysiological conditions, thereby controlling transcription and translation. Some of these functions are the result of crosstalk between ncRNAs to form a competitive endogenous RNA network. These intricately organized networks comprise lncRNA/miRNA, circRNA/miRNA, or lncRNA/miRNA/circRNA, leading to crosstalk between coding and ncRNAs through miRNAs. The miRNA response elements predominantly mediate the ncRNA crosstalk to buffer the miRNAs and thereby fine-tune and counterbalance the genomic changes and regulate neuronal plasticity, synaptogenesis and neuronal differentiation. The perturbed levels and interactions of the ncRNAs could lead to pathologic events like apoptosis and inflammation. Although the regulatory landscape of the ncRNA crosstalk is still evolving, some well-known examples such as lncRNA Malat1 sponging miR-145, circRNA CDR1as sponging miR-7, and lncRNA Cyrano and the circRNA CDR1as regulating miR-7, has been shown to affect brain function. The ability to manipulate these networks is crucial in determining the functional outcome of central nervous system (CNS) pathologies. The focus of this review is to highlights the interactions and crosstalk of these networks in regulating pathophysiologic CNS function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suresh L Mehta
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Anil K Chokkalla
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA; Cellular and Molecular Pathology Graduate Program, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Raghu Vemuganti
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA; Cellular and Molecular Pathology Graduate Program, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA; William S. Middleton Memorial Veteran Administration Hospital, Madison, WI, USA.
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17
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Ye X, Chen Y, Wang J, Chen J, Yao Y, Wang LL, Zhao F. Identification of Circular RNAs Related to Vascular Endothelial Proliferation, Migration, and Angiogenesis After Spinal Cord Injury Using Microarray Analysis in Female Mice. Front Neurol 2021; 12:666750. [PMID: 34539543 PMCID: PMC8447959 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.666750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) can result in severe disability and causes a considerable socio-economic burden worldwide. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are important regulators of gene expression and pathological processes, and may represent therapeutic targets for SCI. To further evaluate the role of circRNAs in SCI, we elucidated circRNA expression profiles related to vascular endothelial proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis during the early stages of secondary injury in a mouse model of SCI. Methods: Microarray analysis was performed to investigate the circRNA expression patterns in the spinal cord 3 days after SCI in female mice. Bioinformatic analyses, including GO enrichment analysis, KEGG pathway analysis, and circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network construction, were conducted to explore the role of circRNA dysregulation in vascular endothelial proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis following SCI. Results: The expression of 1,288 circRNAs was altered (>2-fold change, p < 0.05) in the spinal cord after SCI, consisting of 991 upregulated and 297 downregulated circRNAs. We constructed a circRNA-mRNA network to predict whether these circRNAs could act as “miRNA sponges.” We next assessed the association of altered circRNAs with vascular endothelial proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis using GO and KEGG analyses. Using this analysis, we found that a total of 121 circRNAs were correlated with vascular endothelial proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis in the spinal cord after SCI. Conclusions: Our study provides circRNA expression profiles during the early stages of SCI. circRNA.7079, circRNA.7078, and circRNA.6777 were found to play key roles in the vascular endothelial proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis, and may represent therapeutic targets for SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Ye
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yilei Chen
- Department of Orthopaedics, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiasheng Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jian Chen
- Department of Orthopaedics, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ying Yao
- Department of Neurointensive Care Unit, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lin-Lin Wang
- Department of Basic Medicine Sciences, Department of Orthopaedics of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fengdong Zhao
- Department of Orthopaedics, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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18
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Xu L, Ye X, Zhong J, Chen YY, Wang LL. New Insight of Circular RNAs' Roles in Central Nervous System Post-Traumatic Injury. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:644239. [PMID: 33841083 PMCID: PMC8029650 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.644239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The central nervous system (CNS) post-traumatic injury can cause severe nerve damage with devastating consequences. However, its pathophysiological mechanisms remain vague. There is still an urgent need for more effective treatments. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are non-coding RNAs that can form covalently closed RNA circles. Through second-generation sequencing technology, microarray analysis, bioinformatics, and other technologies, recent studies have shown that a number of circRNAs are differentially expressed after traumatic brain injury (TBI) or spinal cord injury (SCI). These circRNAs play important roles in the proliferation, inflammation, and apoptosis in CNS post-traumatic injury. In this review, we summarize the expression and functions of circRNAs in CNS in recent studies, as well as the circRNA–miRNA–mRNA interaction networks. The potential clinical value of circRNAs as a therapeutic target is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lvwan Xu
- Department of Basic Medicine Sciences, and Department of Orthopaedics of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xin Ye
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jinjie Zhong
- Department of Basic Medicine Sciences, and Department of Obstetrics of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ying-Ying Chen
- Department of Basic Medicine Sciences, and Department of Obstetrics of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lin-Lin Wang
- Department of Basic Medicine Sciences, and Department of Orthopaedics of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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19
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Disease-Associated Circular RNAs: From Biology to Computational Identification. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:6798590. [PMID: 32908906 PMCID: PMC7450300 DOI: 10.1155/2020/6798590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are endogenous RNAs with a covalently closed continuous loop, generated through various backsplicing events of pre-mRNA. An accumulating number of studies have shown that circRNAs are potential biomarkers for major human diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer's disease. Thus, identification and prediction of human disease-associated circRNAs are of significant importance. To this end, a computational analysis-assisted strategy is indispensable to detect, verify, and quantify circRNAs for downstream applications. In this review, we briefly introduce the biology of circRNAs, including the biogenesis, characteristics, and biological functions. In addition, we outline about 30 recent bioinformatic analysis tools that are publicly available for circRNA study. Principles for applying these computational strategies and considerations will be briefly discussed. Lastly, we give a complete survey on more than 20 key computational databases that are frequently used. To our knowledge, this is the most complete and updated summary on publicly available circRNA resources. In conclusion, this review summarizes key aspects of circRNA biology and outlines key computational strategies that will facilitate the genome-wide identification and prediction of circRNAs.
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20
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Role of Circular Ribonucleic Acids in the Treatment of Traumatic Brain and Spinal Cord Injury. Mol Neurobiol 2020; 57:4296-4304. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-020-02027-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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21
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Nie MW, Han YC, Shen ZJ, Xie HZ. Identification of circRNA and mRNA expression profiles and functional networks of vascular tissue in lipopolysaccharide-induced sepsis. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 24:7915-7927. [PMID: 32452125 PMCID: PMC7348180 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.15424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Sepsis is the most common cause of death in intensive care units. This study investigated the circular RNA (circRNA) and mRNA expression profiles and functional networks of the aortic tissue in sepsis. We established a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced rat sepsis model. High‐throughput sequencing was performed on the aorta tissue to identify differentially expressed (DE) circRNAs and mRNAs, which were validated by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR). Bioinformatic analysis was carried out and coding and non‐coding co‐expression (CNC) and competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) regulatory networks were constructed to investigate the mechanisms. In total, 373 up‐regulated and 428 down‐regulated circRNAs and 2063 up‐regulated and 2903 down‐regulated mRNAs were identified. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses of mRNAs showed that the down‐regulated genes were mainly enriched in the process of energy generation. CNC and ceRNA regulatory networks were constructed with seven DE circRNAs. The results of functional enrichment analysis of CNC target genes revealed the important role of circRNAs in inflammatory response. The ceRNA network also highlighted the significant enrichment in calcium signalling pathway. Significant alterations in circRNAs and mRNAs were observed in the aortic tissue of septic rats. In addition, CNC and ceRNA networks were established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mu-Wen Nie
- Department of Cardiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ye-Chen Han
- Department of Cardiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhu-Jun Shen
- Department of Cardiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hong-Zhi Xie
- Department of Cardiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
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22
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Vuokila N, Aronica E, Korotkov A, van Vliet EA, Nuzhat S, Puhakka N, Pitkänen A. Chronic Regulation of miR-124-3p in the Perilesional Cortex after Experimental and Human TBI. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21072418. [PMID: 32244461 PMCID: PMC7177327 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21072418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Revised: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) dysregulates microRNAs, which are the master regulators of gene expression. Here we investigated the changes in a brain-enriched miR-124-3p, which is known to associate with major post-injury pathologies, such as neuroinflammation. RT-qPCR of the rat tissue sampled at 7 d and 3 months in the perilesional cortex adjacent to the necrotic lesion core (aPeCx) revealed downregulation of miR-124-3p at 7 d (fold-change (FC) 0.13, p < 0.05 compared with control) and 3 months (FC 0.40, p < 0.05) post-TBI. In situ hybridization confirmed the downregulation of miR-124-3p at 7 d and 3 months post-TBI in the aPeCx (both p < 0.01). RT-qPCR confirmed the upregulation of the miR-124-3p target Stat3 in the aPeCx at 7 d post-TBI (7-fold, p < 0.05). mRNA-Seq revealed 312 downregulated and 311 upregulated miR-124 targets (p < 0.05). To investigate whether experimental findings translated to humans, we performed in situ hybridization of miR-124-3p in temporal lobe autopsy samples of TBI patients. Our data revealed downregulation of miR-124-3p in individual neurons of cortical layer III. These findings indicate a persistent downregulation of miR-124-3p in the perilesional cortex that might contribute to post-injury neurodegeneration and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niina Vuokila
- A. I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland; (N.V.); (S.N.); (A.P.)
| | - Eleonora Aronica
- Department of (Neuro)pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (E.A.); (A.K.); (E.A.v.V.)
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), 0397 Heemstede, The Netherlands
| | - Anatoly Korotkov
- Department of (Neuro)pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (E.A.); (A.K.); (E.A.v.V.)
| | - Erwin Alexander van Vliet
- Department of (Neuro)pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (E.A.); (A.K.); (E.A.v.V.)
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, P.O. Box 94246, 1090 GE Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Salma Nuzhat
- A. I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland; (N.V.); (S.N.); (A.P.)
| | - Noora Puhakka
- A. I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland; (N.V.); (S.N.); (A.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +358-40-861-4939
| | - Asla Pitkänen
- A. I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland; (N.V.); (S.N.); (A.P.)
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Mehta SL, Dempsey RJ, Vemuganti R. Role of circular RNAs in brain development and CNS diseases. Prog Neurobiol 2020; 186:101746. [PMID: 31931031 PMCID: PMC7024016 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2020.101746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 174] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In mammals, many classes of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are expressed at a much higher level in the brain than in other organs. Recent studies have identified a new class of ncRNAs called circular RNAs (circRNAs), which are produced by back-splicing and fusion of either exons, introns, or both exon-intron into covalently closed loops. The circRNAs are also highly enriched in the brain and increase continuously from the embryonic to the adult stage. Although the functional significance and mechanism of action of circRNAs are still being actively explored, they are thought to regulate the transcription of their host genes and sequestration of miRNAs and RNA binding proteins. Some circRNAs are also shown to have translation potential to form peptides. The expression and abundance of circRNAs seem to be spatiotemporally maintained in a normal brain. Altered expression of circRNAs is also thought to mediate several disorders, including brain-tumor growth, and acute and chronic neurodegenerative disorders by affecting mechanisms such as angiogenesis, neuronal plasticity, autophagy, apoptosis, and inflammation. This review discusses the involvement of various circRNAs in brain development and CNS diseases. A better understanding of the circRNA function will help to develop novel therapeutic strategies to treat CNS complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suresh L Mehta
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Robert J Dempsey
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Raghu Vemuganti
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States; William S. Middleton Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI, United States.
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24
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Qu X, Li Z, Chen J, Hou L. The emerging roles of circular RNAs in CNS injuries. J Neurosci Res 2020; 98:1485-1497. [PMID: 32052488 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2019] [Revised: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolin Qu
- Department of Neurosurgery Changzheng Hospital Second Military Medical University Shanghai China
| | - Zhenxing Li
- Department of Neurosurgery Changzheng Hospital Second Military Medical University Shanghai China
| | - Jigang Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery Changzheng Hospital Second Military Medical University Shanghai China
| | - Lijun Hou
- Department of Neurosurgery Changzheng Hospital Second Military Medical University Shanghai China
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25
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The Role of Circular RNAs in Brain Injury. Neuroscience 2020; 428:50-59. [PMID: 31917349 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2019.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2019] [Revised: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Circular RNAs are an increasingly important topic in non-coding RNA biology, drawing considerable attention in recent years. Accumulating evidence suggests a critical role for circular RNAs in both early and latent stages of disease pathogenesis. Circular RNAs are abundantly expressed in brain tissue, with significant implications for neural development and disease progression. Disruption of these processes, including those seen in response to brain injury, can have serious consequences such as hemiplegia, aphasia, coma, and death. In this review, we describe the role of circular RNAs in the context of brain injury and explore the potential connection between circular RNAs, brain hypoxic ischemic injury, ischemia-reperfusion injury, and traumatic injury.
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26
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Lv Y, Li S, Li Z, Tao R, Shao Y, Chen Y. Quantitative analysis of noncoding RNA from paired fresh and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded brain tissues. Int J Legal Med 2019; 134:873-884. [PMID: 31788707 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-019-02210-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues are commonly used both clinically and in forensic pathology. Recently, noncoding RNA (ncRNA) has attracted interest among molecular medical researchers. However, it remains unclear whether newly identified ncRNAs, such as long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) and circular RNA (circRNA), remain stable for downstream molecular analysis in FFPE tissues. Here, we assessed the feasibility of using autoptic FFPE brain tissues from eight individuals to perform quantitative molecular analyses. Selected RNA targets (9 mRNAs and 15 ncRNAs) with different amplicon lengths were studied by RT-qPCR in paired fresh and FFPE specimens. For RNA quality assessment, RNA purity and yield were comparable between the two sample cohorts; however, the RNA integrity number decreased significantly during FFPE sampling. Amplification efficiency also displayed certain variability related with amplicon length and RNA species. We found molecular evidence that short amplicons of mRNA, lncRNA, and circRNA were amplified more efficiently than long amplicons. With the assistance of RefFinder, 5S, SNORD48, miR-103a, and miR-125b were selected as reference genes given their high stability. After normalization, we found that short amplicon markers (e.g., ACTB mRNA and MALAT1 lncRNA) exhibited high consistency of quantification in paired fresh/FFPE samples. In particular, circRNAs (XPO1, HIPK3, and TMEM56) presented relatively consistent and stable expression profiles in FFPE tissues compared with their corresponding linear transcripts. Additionally, we evaluated the influence of prolonged storage time on the amplification of gene transcripts and found that short amplicons still work effectively in archived FFPE biospecimens. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate the possibility of performing accurate quantitative analysis of ncRNAs using short amplicons and standardized RT-qPCR assays in autopsy-derived FFPE samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yehui Lv
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Academy of Forensic Science, Shanghai, 200063, China. .,School of basic medical sciences, Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Science, Shanghai, 201318, China.
| | - Shiying Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Academy of Forensic Science, Shanghai, 200063, China
| | - Zhihong Li
- School of basic medical sciences, Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Science, Shanghai, 201318, China
| | - Ruiyang Tao
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Academy of Forensic Science, Shanghai, 200063, China
| | - Yu Shao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Academy of Forensic Science, Shanghai, 200063, China
| | - Yijiu Chen
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Academy of Forensic Science, Shanghai, 200063, China.
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