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Sandhanam K, Tamilanban T, Bhattacharjee B, Manasa K. Exploring miRNA therapies and gut microbiome-enhanced CAR-T cells: advancing frontiers in glioblastoma stem cell targeting. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024:10.1007/s00210-024-03479-9. [PMID: 39382681 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03479-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 09/20/2024] [Indexed: 10/10/2024]
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) presents a formidable challenge in oncology due to its aggressive nature and resistance to conventional treatments. Recent advancements propose a novel therapeutic strategy combining microRNA-based therapies, chimeric antigen receptor-T (CAR-T) cells, and gut microbiome modulation to target GBM stem cells and transform cancer treatment. MicroRNA therapies show promise in regulating key signalling pathways implicated in GBM progression, offering the potential to disrupt GBM stem cell renewal. CAR-T cell therapy, initially successful in blood cancers, is being adapted to target GBM by genetically engineering T cells to recognise and eliminate GBM stem cell-specific antigens. Despite early successes, challenges like the immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment persist. Additionally, recent research has uncovered a link between the gut microbiome and GBM, suggesting that gut dysbiosis can influence systemic inflammation and immune responses. Novel strategies to modulate the gut microbiome are emerging, enhancing the efficacy of microRNA therapies and CAR-T cell treatments. This combined approach highlights the synergistic potential of these innovative therapies in GBM treatment, aiming to eradicate primary tumours and prevent recurrence, thereby improving patient prognosis and quality of life. Ongoing research and clinical trials are crucial to fully exploit this promising frontier in GBM therapy, offering hope to patients grappling with this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Sandhanam
- Department of Pharmacology, SRM College of Pharmacy, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chengalpattu, 603203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - T Tamilanban
- Department of Pharmacology, SRM College of Pharmacy, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chengalpattu, 603203, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Bedanta Bhattacharjee
- Department of Pharmacology, Girijananda Chowdhury University-Tezpur Campus, 784501, Assam, India
| | - K Manasa
- Department of Pharmacology, MNR College of Pharmacy, Sangareddy, 502294, Telangana, India
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Yadav R, Khatkar R, Yap KCH, Kang CYH, Lyu J, Singh RK, Mandal S, Mohanta A, Lam HY, Okina E, Kumar RR, Uttam V, Sharma U, Jain M, Prakash H, Tuli HS, Kumar AP, Jain A. The miRNA and PD-1/PD-L1 signaling axis: an arsenal of immunotherapeutic targets against lung cancer. Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:414. [PMID: 39343796 PMCID: PMC11439964 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-02182-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2024] [Revised: 08/21/2024] [Accepted: 09/18/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is a severe challenge to the health care system with intrinsic resistance to first and second-line chemo/radiotherapies. In view of the sterile environment of lung cancer, several immunotherapeutic drugs including nivolumab, pembrolizumab, atezolizumab, and durvalumab are currently being used in clinics globally with the intention of releasing exhausted T-cells back against refractory tumor cells. Immunotherapies have a limited response rate and may cause immune-related adverse events (irAEs) in some patients. Hence, a deeper understanding of regulating immune checkpoint interactions could significantly enhance lung cancer treatments. In this review, we explore the role of miRNAs in modulating immunogenic responses against tumors. We discuss various aspects of how manipulating these checkpoints can bias the immune system's response against lung cancer. Specifically, we examine how altering the miRNA profile can impact the activity of various immune checkpoint inhibitors, focusing on the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway within the complex landscape of lung cancer. We believe that a clear understanding of the host's miRNA profile can influence the efficacy of checkpoint inhibitors and significantly contribute to existing immunotherapies for lung cancer patients. Additionally, we discuss ongoing clinical trials involving immunotherapeutic drugs, both as standalone treatments and in combination with other therapies, intending to advance the development of immunotherapy for lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ritu Yadav
- Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Rinku Khatkar
- Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Kenneth C-H Yap
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chloe Yun-Hui Kang
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Juncheng Lyu
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Rahul Kumar Singh
- Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Surojit Mandal
- Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Adrija Mohanta
- Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Hiu Yan Lam
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Elena Okina
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Rajiv Ranjan Kumar
- Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Vivek Uttam
- Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Uttam Sharma
- Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Manju Jain
- Department of Biochemistry, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | | | | | - Alan Prem Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
- NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Aklank Jain
- Non-Coding RNA and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India.
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Vaxevanis C, Bachmann M, Seliger B. Immune modulatory microRNAs in tumors, their clinical relevance in diagnosis and therapy. J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e009774. [PMID: 39209767 PMCID: PMC11367391 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2024-009774] [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] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The importance of the immune system in regulating tumor growth by inducing immune cell-mediated cytotoxicity associated with patients' outcomes has been highlighted in the past years by an increasing life expectancy in patients with cancer on treatment with different immunotherapeutics. However, tumors often escape immune surveillance, which is accomplished by different mechanisms. Recent studies demonstrated an essential role of small non-coding RNAs, such as microRNAs (miRNAs), in the post-transcriptional control of immune modulatory molecules. Multiple methods have been used to identify miRNAs targeting genes involved in escaping immune recognition including miRNAs targeting CTLA-4, PD-L1, HLA-G, components of the major histocompatibility class I antigen processing machinery (APM) as well as other immune response-relevant genes in tumors. Due to their function, these immune modulatory miRNAs can be used as (1) diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers allowing to discriminate between tumor stages and to predict the patients' outcome as well as response and resistance to (immuno) therapies and as (2) therapeutic targets for the treatment of tumor patients. This review summarizes the role of miRNAs in tumor-mediated immune escape, discuss their potential as diagnostic, prognostic and predictive tools as well as their use as therapeutics including alternative application methods, such as chimeric antigen receptor T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoforos Vaxevanis
- Institute for Medical Immunology, Martin Luther University Halle Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Michael Bachmann
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Dresden, Germany
| | - Barbara Seliger
- Institute for Medical Immunology, Martin Luther University Halle Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
- Institute for Translational Immunology, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Brandenburg, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology IZI, Leipzig, Germany
- Institute of Translational Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Brandenburg, Germany
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4
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Gupta I, Gaykalova DA. Unveiling the role of PIK3R1 in cancer: A comprehensive review of regulatory signaling and therapeutic implications. Semin Cancer Biol 2024; 106-107:58-86. [PMID: 39197810 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2024.08.004] [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: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024]
Abstract
Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) is responsible for phosphorylating phosphoinositides to generate secondary signaling molecules crucial for regulating various cellular processes, including cell growth, survival, and metabolism. The PI3K is a heterodimeric enzyme complex comprising of a catalytic subunit (p110α, p110β, or p110δ) and a regulatory subunit (p85). The binding of the regulatory subunit, p85, with the catalytic subunit, p110, forms an integral component of the PI3K enzyme. PIK3R1 (phosphoinositide-3-kinase regulatory subunit 1) belongs to class IA of the PI3K family. PIK3R1 exhibits structural complexity due to alternative splicing, giving rise to distinct isoforms, prominently p85α and p55α. While the primary p85α isoform comprises multiple domains, including Src homology 3 (SH3) domains, a Breakpoint Cluster Region Homology (BH) domain, and Src homology 2 (SH2) domains (iSH2 and nSH2), the shorter isoform, p55α, lacks certain domains present in p85α. In this review, we will highlight the intricate regulatory mechanisms governing PI3K signaling along with the impact of PIK3R1 alterations on cellular processes. We will further delve into the clinical significance of PIK3R1 mutations in various cancer types and their implications for prognosis and treatment outcomes. Additionally, we will discuss the evolving landscape of targeted therapies aimed at modulating PI3K-associated pathways. Overall, this review will provide insights into the dynamic interplay of PIK3R1 in cancer, fostering advancements in precision medicine and the development of targeted interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishita Gupta
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Marlene & Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Daria A Gaykalova
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Marlene & Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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5
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Rac M. Synthesis and Regulation of miRNA, Its Role in Oncogenesis, and Its Association with Colorectal Cancer Progression, Diagnosis, and Prognosis. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:1450. [PMID: 39001340 PMCID: PMC11241650 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14131450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The dysfunction of several types of regulators, including miRNAs, has recently attracted scientific attention for their role in cancer-associated changes in gene expression. MiRNAs are small RNAs of ~22 nt in length that do not encode protein information but play an important role in post-transcriptional mRNA regulation. Studies have shown that miRNAs are involved in tumour progression, including cell proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis, and tumour angiogenesis and invasion, and play a complex and important role in the regulation of tumourigenesis. The detection of selected miRNAs may help in the early detection of cancer cells, and monitoring changes in their expression profile may serve as a prognostic factor in the course of the disease or its treatment. MiRNAs may serve as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, as well as potential therapeutic targets for colorectal cancer. In recent years, there has been increasing evidence for an epigenetic interaction between DNA methylation and miRNA expression in tumours. This article provides an overview of selected miRNAs, which are more frequently expressed in colorectal cancer cells, suggesting an oncogenic nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Rac
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University, Al. Powstańców Wielkopolskich 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
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6
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Kouchaki H, Kamyab P, Darbeheshti F, Gharezade A, Fouladseresht H, Tabrizi R. miR-939, as an important regulator in various cancers pathogenesis, has diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic values: a review. J Egypt Natl Canc Inst 2024; 36:16. [PMID: 38679648 DOI: 10.1186/s43046-024-00220-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND MicroRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) are highly conserved non-coding RNAs with a short length (18-24 nucleotides) that directly bind to a complementary sequence within 3'-untranslated regions of their target mRNAs and regulate gene expression, post-transcriptionally. They play crucial roles in diverse biological processes, including cell proliferation, apoptosis, and differentiation. In the context of cancer, miRNAs are key regulators of growth, angiogenesis, metastasis, and drug resistance. MAIN BODY This review primarily focuses on miR-939 and its expanding roles and target genes in cancer pathogenesis. It compiles findings from various investigations. MiRNAs, due to their dysregulated expression in tumor environments, hold potential as cancer biomarkers. Several studies have highlighted the dysregulation of miR-939 expression in human cancers. CONCLUSION Our study highlights the potential of miR-939 as a valuable target in cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. The aberrant expression of miR-939, along with other miRNAs, underscores their significance in advancing our understanding of cancer biology and their promise in personalized cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hosein Kouchaki
- Shiraz Institute for Cancer Research, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Parnia Kamyab
- USERN Office, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Darbeheshti
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Arezou Gharezade
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Hamed Fouladseresht
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
| | - Reza Tabrizi
- Clinical Research Development Unit, Valiasr Hospital, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran.
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Science, Fasa, Iran.
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7
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Soleimani M, Thi M, Janfaza S, Ozcan G, Mazurek S, Ozgun G, Maurice-Dror C, Eigl B, Chi K, Kollmannsberger C, Nappi L. Circulating microRNA-155-3p levels predicts response to first line immunotherapy in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma. Sci Rep 2024; 14:8603. [PMID: 38615118 PMCID: PMC11016103 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-59337-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Predictive biomarkers of response to immune checkpoint-based therapies (ICI) remain a critically unmet need in the management of advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC). The complex interplay of the tumour microenvironment (TME) and the circulating immune response has proven to be challenging to decipher. MicroRNAs have gained increasing attention for their role in post-transcriptional gene expression regulation, particularly because they can have immunomodulatory properties. We evaluated the presence of immune-specific extracellular vesicle (EV) microRNAs in the plasma of patients with metastatic RCC (mRCC) prior to initiation of ICI. We found significantly lower levels of microRNA155-3p (miR155) in responders to ICI, when compared to non-responders. This microRNA has unique immunomodulatory properties, thus providing potential biological rationale for our findings. Our results support further work in exploring microRNAs as potential biomarkers of response to immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Soleimani
- Division of Medical Oncology, British Columbia Cancer-Vancouver Cancer Centre, 600 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4E6, Canada
| | - Marisa Thi
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Sajjad Janfaza
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Gizem Ozcan
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Sylwia Mazurek
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Guliz Ozgun
- Division of Medical Oncology, British Columbia Cancer-Vancouver Cancer Centre, 600 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4E6, Canada
| | - Corinne Maurice-Dror
- Division of Medical Oncology, British Columbia Cancer-Vancouver Cancer Centre, 600 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4E6, Canada
| | - Bernhard Eigl
- Division of Medical Oncology, British Columbia Cancer-Vancouver Cancer Centre, 600 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4E6, Canada
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kim Chi
- Division of Medical Oncology, British Columbia Cancer-Vancouver Cancer Centre, 600 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4E6, Canada
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Christian Kollmannsberger
- Division of Medical Oncology, British Columbia Cancer-Vancouver Cancer Centre, 600 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4E6, Canada
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Lucia Nappi
- Division of Medical Oncology, British Columbia Cancer-Vancouver Cancer Centre, 600 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4E6, Canada.
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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Liu JF, Zou B, Xiang C, Yan HC. Comprehensive bioinformatics analysis unveils THEMIS2 as a carcinogenic indicator related to immune infiltration and prognosis of thyroid cancer. Sci Rep 2024; 14:8156. [PMID: 38589421 PMCID: PMC11001958 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-58943-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to identify biomarkers associated with the initiation and prognosis of thyroid cancer and elucidate the underlying pathogenic mechanisms. We obtained expression profiles and clinical information from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA)-THCA and three datasets (GSE53157, GSE82208, and GSE76039). The three microarray datasets were combined using Perl and the sva package in R and termed 'merged dataset'. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) identified 15 gene co-expression modules in the merged dataset and 235 hub genes. Venn diagram analysis revealed 232 overlapping genes between the merged and THCA datasets. Overlapping genes were subjected to gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression identified THEMIS2 as a candidate hub gene. Cox, Kaplan-Meier (K-M) survival and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) confirmed the correlation of THEMIS2 with overall survival, its enrichment in immunologic processes, and its association with the p53 and JAK-STAT signaling pathways. Its expression was positively correlated with those of immune checkpoints and the infiltration level of immune cells. Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis confirmed that THEMIS2, a diagnostic biomarker, could distinguish between tumor and normal specimens. The nomogram (ROC or DCA) model containing THEMIS2, age, and stage predicted favourable prognoses. Thus, THEMIS2 was a biomarker of immune infiltration and prognosis in thyroid cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Feng Liu
- Head and Neck Breast Department, Xinxiang Central Hospital, The Fourth Clinical College of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453000, Henan, China
| | - Bing Zou
- Breast and Nail Surgery, Feicheng City People's Hospital, Feicheng, 271600, Shandong, China
| | - Cheng Xiang
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 88, Jiefang Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Hai-Chao Yan
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 88, Jiefang Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China.
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Liu K, Chen H, Li Y, Wang B, Li Q, Zhang L, Liu X, Wang C, Ertas YN, Shi H. Autophagy flux in bladder cancer: Cell death crosstalk, drug and nanotherapeutics. Cancer Lett 2024; 591:216867. [PMID: 38593919 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216867] [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: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Autophagy, a self-digestion mechanism, has emerged as a promising target in the realm of cancer therapy, particularly in bladder cancer (BCa), a urological malignancy characterized by dysregulated biological processes contributing to its progression. This highly conserved catabolic mechanism exhibits aberrant activation in pathological events, prominently featured in human cancers. The nuanced role of autophagy in cancer has been unveiled as a double-edged sword, capable of functioning as both a pro-survival and pro-death mechanism in a context-dependent manner. In BCa, dysregulation of autophagy intertwines with cell death mechanisms, wherein pro-survival autophagy impedes apoptosis and ferroptosis, while pro-death autophagy diminishes tumor cell survival. The impact of autophagy on BCa progression is multifaceted, influencing metastasis rates and engaging with the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) mechanism. Pharmacological modulation of autophagy emerges as a viable strategy to impede BCa progression and augment cell death. Notably, the introduction of nanoparticles for targeted autophagy regulation holds promise as an innovative approach in BCa suppression. This review underscores the intricate interplay of autophagy with cell death pathways and its therapeutic implications in the nuanced landscape of bladder cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuan Liu
- Department of Radiotherapy, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei, 071000, PR China
| | - Huijing Chen
- Department of Radiotherapy, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei, 071000, PR China
| | - Yanhong Li
- Department of Radiotherapy, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei, 071000, PR China
| | - Bei Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei, 071000, PR China
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Radiotherapy, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei, 071000, PR China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Department of Radiotherapy, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei, 071000, PR China
| | - Xiaohui Liu
- Department of Radiotherapy, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei, 071000, PR China.
| | - Ce Wang
- Department of Radiotherapy, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei, 071000, PR China.
| | - Yavuz Nuri Ertas
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Erciyes University, Kayseri, 38039, Turkey; ERNAM-Nanotechnology Research and Application Center, Erciyes University, Kayseri, 38039, Turkey; UNAM-National Nanotechnology Research Center, Bilkent University, Ankara, 06800, Turkey.
| | - Hongyun Shi
- Department of Radiotherapy, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei, 071000, PR China.
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Shahin H, Belcastro L, Das J, Perdiki Grigoriadi M, Saager RB, Steinvall I, Sjöberg F, Olofsson P, Elmasry M, El-Serafi AT. MicroRNA-155 mediates multiple gene regulations pertinent to the role of human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells in skin regeneration. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 12:1328504. [PMID: 38562669 PMCID: PMC10982420 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1328504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The role of Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs) in skin wound healing remains to be fully characterized. This study aims to evaluate the regenerative potential of autologous AD-MSCs in a non-healing porcine wound model, in addition to elucidate key miRNA-mediated epigenetic regulations that underlie the regenerative potential of AD-MSCs in wounds. Methods: The regenerative potential of autologous AD-MSCs was evaluated in porcine model using histopathology and spatial frequency domain imaging. Then, the correlations between miRNAs and proteins of AD-MSCs were evaluated using an integration analysis in primary human AD-MSCs in comparison to primary human keratinocytes. Transfection study of AD-MSCs was conducted to validate the bioinformatics data. Results: Autologous porcine AD-MSCs improved wound epithelialization and skin properties in comparison to control wounds. We identified 26 proteins upregulated in human AD-MSCs, including growth and angiogenic factors, chemokines and inflammatory cytokines. Pathway enrichment analysis highlighted cell signalling-associated pathways and immunomodulatory pathways. miRNA-target modelling revealed regulations related to genes encoding for 16 upregulated proteins. miR-155-5p was predicted to regulate Fibroblast growth factor 2 and 7, C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 and Vascular cell adhesion molecule 1. Transfecting human AD-MSCs cell line with anti-miR-155 showed transient gene silencing of the four proteins at 24 h post-transfection. Discussion: This study proposes a positive miR-155-mediated gene regulation of key factors involved in wound healing. The study represents a promising approach for miRNA-based and cell-free regenerative treatment for difficult-to-heal wounds. The therapeutic potential of miR-155 and its identified targets should be further explored in-vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hady Shahin
- Department of Hand Surgery, Plastic Surgery, and Burns, Linkoping University Hospital, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linkoping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Modern Sciences and Arts University, October City, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Luigi Belcastro
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Linkoping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Jyotirmoy Das
- Bioinformatics Unit, Core Facility (KEF), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (BKV), Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Clinical Genomics Linköping, SciLife Laboratory, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | | | - Rolf B. Saager
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Linkoping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Ingrid Steinvall
- Department of Hand Surgery, Plastic Surgery, and Burns, Linkoping University Hospital, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Folke Sjöberg
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linkoping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Pia Olofsson
- Department of Hand Surgery, Plastic Surgery, and Burns, Linkoping University Hospital, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Moustafa Elmasry
- Department of Hand Surgery, Plastic Surgery, and Burns, Linkoping University Hospital, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Ahmed T. El-Serafi
- Department of Hand Surgery, Plastic Surgery, and Burns, Linkoping University Hospital, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linkoping University, Linköping, Sweden
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Alshahrani SH, Al-Hadeithi ZSM, Almalki SG, Malviya J, Hjazi A, Mustafa YF, Alawady AHR, Alsaalamy AH, Joshi SK, Alkhafaji AT. LncRNA-miRNA interaction is involved in colorectal cancer pathogenesis by modulating diverse signaling pathways. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 251:154898. [PMID: 37924797 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
LncRNAs function as molecular sponges for miRNAs to control their availability for targeting mRNA molecules. This procedure indirectly regulates the expression of cancer-related genes. Some lncRNAs also directly interact with miRNAs, leading to their degradation or sequestration, which can negatively impact gene expression. miRNAs, on the other hand, play a critical role in controlling the expression of genes, including oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. Multiple types of cancer have been linked to the onset and progression of miRNA dysregulation. Even though there is a lot of potential for treating CRC by targeting the LncRNA-miRNA axis, several challenges remain to be overcome. The specificity of the targeting approach, delivery methods, resistance, safety, and cost-effectiveness are critical research areas that must be addressed to advance this field and improve treatment outcomes for people with CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sami G Almalki
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Majmaah 11952, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Jitendra Malviya
- Department of Life Sciences and Biological Sciences, IES University Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Ahmed Hjazi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yasser Fakri Mustafa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Mosul, Mosul 41001, Iraq
| | - Ahmed Hussien Radie Alawady
- College of Technical Engineering, the Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq; College of Technical Engineering, the Islamic University of Al Diwaniyah, Al Diwaniyah, Iraq; College of Technical Engineering, the Islamic University of Babylon, Babylon, Iraq
| | - Ali Hashiem Alsaalamy
- College of Technical Engineering, Imam Ja'afar Al-Sadiq University, Al-Muthanna 66002, Iraq
| | - S K Joshi
- Mechanical Engineering Department, Uttaranchal Institute of Technology, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun 248007, India
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12
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Waryah C, Alves E, Mazzieri R, Dolcetti R, Thompson EW, Redfern A, Blancafort P. Unpacking the Complexity of Epithelial Plasticity: From Master Regulator Transcription Factors to Non-Coding RNAs. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3152. [PMID: 37370762 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15123152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cellular plasticity in cancer enables adaptation to selective pressures and stress imposed by the tumor microenvironment. This plasticity facilitates the remodeling of cancer cell phenotype and function (such as tumor stemness, metastasis, chemo/radio resistance), and the reprogramming of the surrounding tumor microenvironment to enable immune evasion. Epithelial plasticity is one form of cellular plasticity, which is intrinsically linked with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Traditionally, EMT has been regarded as a binary state. Yet, increasing evidence suggests that EMT involves a spectrum of quasi-epithelial and quasi-mesenchymal phenotypes governed by complex interactions between cellular metabolism, transcriptome regulation, and epigenetic mechanisms. Herein, we review the complex cross-talk between the different layers of epithelial plasticity in cancer, encompassing the core layer of transcription factors, their interacting epigenetic modifiers and non-coding RNAs, and the manipulation of cancer immunogenicity in transitioning between epithelial and mesenchymal states. In examining these factors, we provide insights into promising therapeutic avenues and potential anti-cancer targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlene Waryah
- Cancer Epigenetics Group, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- School of Human Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Eric Alves
- Cancer Epigenetics Group, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- School of Human Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Roberta Mazzieri
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Riccardo Dolcetti
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Erik W Thompson
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia
- Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Andrew Redfern
- School of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Pilar Blancafort
- Cancer Epigenetics Group, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- School of Human Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
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13
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El-Mahdy HA, Mohamadin AM, Abulsoud AI, Khidr EG, El-Husseiny AA, Ismail A, Elsakka EGE, Mokhlis HA, El-Husseiny HM, Doghish AS. miRNAs as potential game-changers in head and neck cancer: Future clinical and medicinal uses. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 245:154457. [PMID: 37058745 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
Head and neck cancers (HNCs) are a group of heterogeneous tumors formed most frequently from epithelial cells of the larynx, lips, oropharynx, nasopharynx, and mouth. Numerous epigenetic components, including miRNAs, have been demonstrated to have an impact on HNCs characteristics like progression, angiogenesis, initiation, and resistance to therapeutic interventions. The miRNAs may control the production of numerous genes linked to HNCs pathogenesis. The roles that miRNAs play in angiogenesis, invasion, metastasis, cell cycle, proliferation, and apoptosis are responsible for this impact. The miRNAs also have an impact on crucial HNCs-related mechanistic networks like the WNT/β-catenin signaling, PTEN/Akt/mTOR pathway, TGFβ, and KRAS mutations. miRNAs may affect how the HNCs respond to treatments like radiation and chemotherapy in addition to pathophysiology. This review aims to demonstrate the relationship between miRNAs and HNCs with a particular emphasis on how miRNAs impact HNCs signaling networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hesham A El-Mahdy
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr, Cairo 11231, Egypt.
| | - Ahmed M Mohamadin
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr, Cairo 11231, Egypt
| | - Ahmed I Abulsoud
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr, Cairo 11231, Egypt; Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Heliopolis University, Cairo 11785, Egypt
| | - Emad Gamil Khidr
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr, Cairo 11231, Egypt
| | - Ahmed A El-Husseiny
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr, Cairo 11231, Egypt; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Egyptian Russian University, Badr, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Ismail
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr, Cairo 11231, Egypt
| | - Elsayed G E Elsakka
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr, Cairo 11231, Egypt
| | - Hamada Ahmed Mokhlis
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Nasr, Cairo 11231, Egypt
| | - Hussein M El-Husseiny
- Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 3-5-8 Saiwai Cho, Fuchu-shi, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan; Department of Surgery, Anesthesiology, and Radiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Moshtohor, Toukh, Al Qalyubia 13736, Egypt
| | - Ahmed S Doghish
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr, Cairo 11829, Egypt; Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr, Cairo 11231, Egypt.
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14
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Mekky RY, Ragab MF, Manie T, Attia AA, Youness RA. MALAT-1: Immunomodulatory lncRNA hampering the innate and the adaptive immune arms in triple negative breast cancer. Transl Oncol 2023; 31:101653. [PMID: 36907052 PMCID: PMC10025146 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2023.101653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is known as hot immunogenic tumor. Yet, it is one of the most aggressive BC subtypes. TNBC evolve several tactics to evade the immune surveillance phenomena, one of which is shedding of natural killer (NK) cells activating immune ligands such as MICA/B and/or by inducing the expression of the immune checkpoints such as PD-L1 and B7-H4. MALAT-1 is an oncogenic lncRNA. MALAT-1 immunogenic profile is not well investigated. AIM The study aims at exploring the immunogenic role of MALAT-1 in TNBC patients and cell lines and to identify its molecular mechanism in altering both innate and adaptive immune cells present at the tumor microenvironment of TNBC METHODS: BC patients (n = 35) were recruited. Primary NK cells and cytotoxic T lymphocytes were isolated from normal individuals using the negative selection method. MDA-MB-231 cells were cultured and transfected by several oligonucleotides by lipofection technique. Screening of ncRNAs was performed using q-RT-PCR. Immunological functional analysis experiments were performed upon co-culturing primary natural killer cells and cytotoxic T lymphocytes using LDH assay. Bioinformatics analysis was performed to identify potential microRNAs targeted by MALAT-1. RESULTS MALAT-1 expression was significantly upregulated in BC patinets with a profound expression in TNBC patients compared to their normal counterparts. Correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between MALAT-1, tumor size and lymph node metastasis. Knocking down of MALAT-1 in MDA-MB-231 cells resulted in a significant induction of MICA/B, repression of PD-L1 and B7-H4 expression levels. Enhancement of cytotoxic activity of co-cultured NK and CD8+ cells with MALAT-1 siRNAs transfected MDA-MB-231 cells. In silico analysis revealed that miR-34a and miR-17-5p are potential targets to MALAT-1; accordingly, they were found to be downregulated in BC patients. Forcing the expression of miR-34a in MDA-MB-231 cells resulted in a significant induction in MICA/B levels. Ectopic expression of miR-17-5p in MDA-MB-231 cells significantly repressed the expression of PD-L1 and B7-H4 checkpoints. Validations of MALAT-1/miR-34a" and "MALAT-1/miR-17-5p axes were performed by a series of co-transfections and functional assessment of cytotoxic profile of primary immune cells. CONCLUSION This study proposes a novel epigenetic alteration exerted by TNBC cells mainly by inducing the expression of MALAT-1 lncRNA. MALAT-1 mediates innate and adaptive immune suppression events partially via targeting miR-34a/MICA/B and miR-175p/PD-L1/B7-H4 axes in TNBC patients and cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radwa Y Mekky
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, October University for Modern Sciences and Arts (MSA University), Cairo 12622, Egypt
| | - Mai F Ragab
- Pharmacology Department, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire Hosted by Global Academic Foundation, Cairo 11835, Egypt
| | - Tamer Manie
- Department of Breast Surgery, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Abdelrahman A Attia
- General Surgery Department, Ain Shams University, Demerdash Hospital, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rana A Youness
- Biology and Biochemistry Department, Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire Hosted by Global Academic Foundation, Cairo 11835, Egypt.
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15
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Galindo Torres BP, García Girón C, Alcaraz Ortega R, Saiz López P, Adiego Leza MI, Grijalba Uche MV. Knowledge and expectations about miRNAs as biomarkers in head and neck squamous cell cancers. Am J Otolaryngol 2023; 44:103771. [PMID: 36603378 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjoto.2022.103771] [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: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell cancer patients suffer from a high postoperative recurrence rate and poor prognosis. Thus, it is essential to better understand the underlying molecular mechanisms and identify the role of new biomarkers. Recent research has shown that the dysregulation of microRNAs is a potential biomarker as a screening or prognostic tool. Moreover, the literature reveals its promising usefulness to select the best treatment strategy and monitor tumour response. The purpose of this review is to identify and synthesize the available literature on microRNAs as biomarkers that could help manage patients with head and neck squamous cell cancer. A search in scientific databases was completed, including all relevant articles related to circulating microRNAs in head and neck squamous cell cancer published in English or Spanish. We focused on articles whose main findings were related to their usefulness in diagnosis and prognosis. Conclusion: Knowledge of microRNAs opens the possibilities that these molecules offer in terms of monitoring cancer disease in a less-invasive, simple manner, allowing for serial sampling to assess the response to treatment and minimal residual disease. It is yet to be determined whether liquid biopsy will replace the traditional biopsy in the future but it represents a change in the paradigm of management of head and neck squamous cell cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Patricia Saiz López
- Pathological Anatomy Department, Universitary Hospital of Burgos, Burgos, Spain
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16
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MicroRNAs in T Cell-Immunotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010250. [PMID: 36613706 PMCID: PMC9820302 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010250] [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: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) act as master regulators of gene expression in homeostasis and disease. Despite the rapidly growing body of evidence on the theranostic potential of restoring miRNA levels in pre-clinical models, the translation into clinics remains limited. Here, we review the current knowledge of miRNAs as T-cell targeting immunotherapeutic tools, and we offer an overview of the recent advances in miRNA delivery strategies, clinical trials and future perspectives in RNA interference technologies.
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17
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Wróblewska JP, Lach MS, Rucinski M, Piotrowski I, Galus L, Suchorska WM, Kreis S, Marszałek A. MiRNAs from serum-derived extracellular vesicles as biomarkers for uveal melanoma progression. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1008901. [PMID: 36619870 PMCID: PMC9814164 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1008901] [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: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Uveal melanoma (UM) is a rare type of malignancy that originates from melanocytes in the choroid, iris and the eye's ciliary body. Biomarkers for early detection and progression of UM, especially the molecular traits governing the development of metastasis, are still not available in clinical practice. One extensively studied components of liquid biopsies are extracellular vesicles. Due to their unique molecular cargo, they can contribute to early cancer development and at the same time carry markers for disease onset and progression. For characterisation of the miRNA profiles present in circulating serum-derived exosomes of patients with diagnosed primary and metastatic UM, we have analyzed the miRNA cargos using next-generation sequencing followed by RT-qPCR validation in a cohort of patients (control n = 20; primary n = 9; metastatic n = 11). Nine miRNAs differentiating these patient groups have been established. We show that hsa-miR-144-5p and hsa-miR-191-5p are the most promising biomarker candidates, allowing the categorization of patients into local and advanced UM. Additionally, the comparison of miRNA expression levels in exosomes derived from UM patients with those derived from healthy donors revealed that hsa-miR-191-5p, -223-3p, -483-5p, -203a has the potential to be used as an early marker for the presence of UM. This pilot study reveals that miRNAs extracted from circulating exosomes could be exploited as potential biomarkers in UM diagnosis and, more importantly, for indicating metastatic spread.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Patrycja Wróblewska
- Department of Oncologic Pathology and Prophylaxis, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland,Department of Tumor Pathology, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland,Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, Belval, Luxembourg,*Correspondence: Joanna Patrycja Wróblewska,
| | - Michał Stefan Lach
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland,Radiobiology Lab, Department of Medical Physics, Greater Poland Cancer, Poznan, Poland,Department of Electroradiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Marcin Rucinski
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Igor Piotrowski
- Radiobiology Lab, Department of Medical Physics, Greater Poland Cancer, Poznan, Poland,Department of Electroradiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Lukasz Galus
- Department of Medical and Experimental Oncology, Heliodor Swiecicki University Hospital, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Wiktoria Maria Suchorska
- Radiobiology Lab, Department of Medical Physics, Greater Poland Cancer, Poznan, Poland,Department of Electroradiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Stephanie Kreis
- Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, Belval, Luxembourg
| | - Andrzej Marszałek
- Department of Oncologic Pathology and Prophylaxis, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland,Department of Tumor Pathology, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
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18
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Al-Awsi GRL, Jasim SA, Fakri Mustafa Y, Alhachami FR, Ziyadullaev S, Kandeel M, Abulkassim R, Sivaraman R, M Hameed N, Mireya Romero Parra R, Karampoor S, Mirzaei R. The role of miRNA-128 in the development and progression of gastrointestinal and urogenital cancer. Future Oncol 2022; 18:4209-4231. [PMID: 36519554 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2022-0574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing data have shown the significance of various miRNAs in malignancy. In this regard, parallel to its biological role in normal tissues, miRNA-128 (miR-128) has been found to play an essential immunomodulatory function in the process of cancer initiation and development. The occurrence of the aberrant expression of miR-128 in tumors and the unique properties of miRNAs raise the prospect of their use as biomarkers and the next generation of molecular anticancer therapies. The function of miR-128 in malignancies such as breast, prostate, colorectal, gastric, pancreatic, esophageal, cervical, ovarian and bladder cancers and hepatocellular carcinoma is discussed in this review. Finally, the effect of exosomal miR-128 on cancer resistance to therapeutics and cancer immunotherapy in certain malignancies is highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Saade Abdalkareem Jasim
- Department of Medical Laboratory Techniques, Al-maarif University College, Al-Anbar-Ramadi, Iraq
| | - Yasser Fakri Mustafa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Mosul, Mosul, 41001, Iraq
| | - Firas Rahi Alhachami
- Department of Radiology, College of Health & Medical Technololgy, Al-Ayen University, Thi-Qar, Iraq
| | - Shukhrat Ziyadullaev
- No. 1 Department of Internal Diseases, Vice-rector for Scientific Affairs & Innovations, Samarkand State Medical University, Amir Temur Street 18, Samarkand, Uzbekistan
| | - Mahmoud Kandeel
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Hofuf, Al-Ahsa, 31982, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelshikh University, Kafrelshikh, 33516, Egypt
| | | | - R Sivaraman
- Department of Mathematics, Dwaraka Doss Goverdhan Doss Vaishnav College, Arumbakkam, University of Madras, Chennai, India
| | - Noora M Hameed
- Anesthesia Techniques, Al-Nisour University College, Iraq
| | | | - Sajad Karampoor
- Gastrointestinal & Liver Diseases Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rasoul Mirzaei
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Venom & Biotherapeutics Molecules Lab, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
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19
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Cittadini E, Brucculeri AM, Quartararo F, Vaglica R, Miceli V, Conaldi PG. Stem cell therapy in the treatment of organic and dysfunctional endometrial pathology. Minerva Obstet Gynecol 2022; 74:504-515. [PMID: 34851073 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-606x.21.04919-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intrauterine adhesions caused by postpartum curettage, spontaneous abortions, interrupted pregnancies, endometrial ablations, infections and inflammations, can lead to a loss of endometrial function, with consequent hypomenorrhea and infertility in women of reproductive age. In a non-negligible percentage of cases, the available surgical methods and hormone therapy, with sequential administration of estrogen and progesterone, are ineffective. In fact, severe damage to the basal layer of the endometrium causes the loss of endometrial cell precursors and leads to the failure of regeneration of the functional layer to which the endometrium is cyclically exposed. Today, many researchers are evaluating the use of stem cells of different origins as a potential therapy to restore endometrial function. METHODS Our interest has been focused on adipose-derived stromal/stem cells (ADSCs) obtained by collecting subcutaneous adipose tissue and subsequently treating it with the MilliGraft® method. This procedure produces a cell suspension, the stromal vascular fraction (SVF), which includes ADSCs and soluble factors such as proteins and extracellular vesicles (exosomes). The SVF thus obtained was characterized in its cellular composition and its functional factors. Our clinical protocol for the future use of adipose tissue in endometrial regeneration in its different phases is presented. RESULTS The data obtained, even though they still require further support and implementation, show the regenerative properties of SVF obtained from adipose tissue using a mechanical method. CONCLUSIONS These findings can contribute to the development of cell therapies using stem cells of different derivations which are increasingly being utilized in the treatment of endometrial lesions from adherent or dysfunctional pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ettore Cittadini
- Fondazione per gli Studi sulla Riproduzione Umana, Clinica Candela, Palermo, Italy -
| | - Anna M Brucculeri
- Fondazione per gli Studi sulla Riproduzione Umana, Clinica Candela, Palermo, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Quartararo
- Fondazione per gli Studi sulla Riproduzione Umana, Clinica Candela, Palermo, Italy
| | - Roberto Vaglica
- Fondazione per gli Studi sulla Riproduzione Umana, Clinica Candela, Palermo, Italy
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20
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The Features of Immune Checkpoint Gene Regulation by microRNA in Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169324. [PMID: 36012588 PMCID: PMC9409052 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, the search for new promising tools of immunotherapy continues. In this regard, microRNAs (miRNAs) that influence immune checkpoint (IC) gene expression in tumor and T-cells and may be important regulators of immune cells are considered. MiRNAs regulate gene expression by blocking mRNA translation. An important feature of miRNA is its ability to affect the expression of several genes simultaneously, which corresponds to the trend toward the use of combination therapy. The article provides a list of miRNAs acting simultaneously on several ICs and miRNAs that, in addition to IC, can regulate the expression of targeted therapy genes. There is dependence of miRNA interactions with IC genes on the type of cancer. The analysis of the accumulated data demonstrates that only about 14% (95% CI: 9.8–20.1%) of the studied miRNAs regulate the expression of specific IC in more than one type of cancer. That is, there is tumor specificity in the miRNA action on ICs. A number of miRNAs demonstrated high efficiency in vitro and in vivo. This indicates the potential of miRNAs as promising agents for cancer immunotherapy. Additional studies of the miRNA–gene interaction features and the search for an optimal miRNA mimic structure are necessary.
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21
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Vaxevanis CK, Friedrich M, Tretbar SU, Handke D, Wang Y, Blümke J, Dummer R, Massa C, Seliger B. Identification and characterization of novel CD274 (PD-L1) regulating microRNAs and their functional relevance in melanoma. Clin Transl Med 2022; 12:e934. [PMID: 35802807 PMCID: PMC9270002 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune checkpoint inhibitors directed against programmed cell death 1 (PDCD1/PD1) receptor and programmed cell death-ligand 1 (CD274/PD-L1) have been recently successfully implemented for the treatment of many cancers, but the response rate of tumour patients is still limited due to intrinsic and acquired resistances. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of this limited response have still to be defined in detail. The aim of this study is to uncover processes inhibiting PDCD1/CD274 expression thereby enhancing anti-tumour immune responses. The identification and characterization of microRNAs (miRNAs) targeting the 3'-untranslated region (3'-UTR) as well as the coding sequence (CDS) of CD274 will provide the basis for a new drug development. METHODS Human melanoma cell lines and tissue samples were subjected to mRNA and/or protein expression analysis using qPCR, Western blot, flow cytometry, and/or immunohistochemistry. The data were correlated to clinical parameters. MiRNA trapping by RNA in vitro affinity purification (miTRAP) technology in combination with small RNA sequencing and different bioinformatics tools were employed to identify CD274-regulating miRNAs. RESULTS Screening based on miTRAP in combination with RNAseq identified a large number of novel CD274-regulating candidate miRNAs, from which eight selected miRNAs were functionally validated. Five out of eight miRNAs were able to significantly reduce CD274 surface expression indicating that these miRNAs directly bind to the 3'-UTR or CDS of the CD274 gene. The miRNA-mediated inhibition of CD274 expression was accompanied by an increased T cell recognition. Furthermore, an inverse expression of three CD274-regulating miRNAs and CD274 was demonstrated in melanoma lesions. A CD274 miRNA score was generated, which was associated with disease progression and reduced survival of melanoma patients. CONCLUSIONS These data revealed a novel mechanism that miRNAs targeting the CDS of immune checkpoint genes are functional, have prognostic relevance, and also the potential for the development of novel miRNA-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael Friedrich
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Sandy Uta Tretbar
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Diana Handke
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Yuan Wang
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Juliane Blümke
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Reinhard Dummer
- Clinic of Dermatology, Universitäts-Spital Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Chiara Massa
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Barbara Seliger
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
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Almeida RS, Gomes TT, Araújo FS, de Oliveira SAV, Santos JF, Donadi EA, Lucena-Silva N. Differentially Expressed Bone Marrow microRNAs Are Associated With Soluble HLA-G Bone Marrow Levels in Childhood Leukemia. Front Genet 2022; 13:871972. [PMID: 35774498 PMCID: PMC9237524 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.871972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
HLA-G is a nonclassical histocompatibility class I molecule that plays a role in immune vigilance in cancer and infectious diseases. We previously reported that highly soluble HLA-G (sHLA-G) levels in the bone marrow were associated with a high blood cell count in T-acute lymphoblastic leukemia, a marker associated with a poor prognosis. To understand the posttranscriptional HLA-G gene regulation in leukemia, we evaluated the bone marrow microRNA profile associated with the HLA-G bone marrow mRNA expression and sHLA-G bone marrow levels in children exhibiting acute leukemia (B-ALL, T-ALL, and AML) using massively parallel sequencing. Ten differentially expressed miRNAs were associated with high sHLA-G bone marrow levels, and four of them (hsa-miR-4516, hsa-miR-486-5p, hsa-miR-4488, and hsa-miR-5096) targeted HLA-G, acting at distinct HLA-G gene segments. For qPCR validation, these miRNA expression levels (ΔCt) were correlated with HLA-G5 and RREB1 mRNA expressions and sHLA-G bone marrow levels according to the leukemia subtype. The hsa-miR-4488 and hsa-miR-5096 expression levels were lower in B-ALL than in AML, while that of hsa-miR-486-5p was lower in T-ALL than in AML. In T-ALL, hsa-miR-5096 correlated positively with HLA-G5 and negatively with sHLA-G. In addition, hsa-miR-4516 correlated negatively with sHLA-G levels. In AML, hsa-miR-4516 and hsa-miR-4488 correlated positively with HLA-G5 mRNA, but the HLA-G5 negatively correlated with sHLA-G. Our findings highlight the need to validate the findings of massively parallel sequencing since the experiment generally uses few individuals, and the same type of leukemia can be molecularly quite variable. We showed that miRNA's milieu in leukemia's bone marrow environment varies according to the type of leukemia and that the regulation of sHLA-G expression exerted by the same miRNA may act by a distinct mechanism in different types of leukemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Santos Almeida
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department of Immunology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Recife, Brazil
| | - Thailany Thays Gomes
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department of Immunology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Recife, Brazil
| | - Felipe Souza Araújo
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department of Immunology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Recife, Brazil
| | - Sávio Augusto Vieira de Oliveira
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department of Immunology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Recife, Brazil
| | - Jair Figueredo Santos
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department of Immunology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Recife, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Antônio Donadi
- Clinical Immunology Division, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo (USP), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Norma Lucena-Silva
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department of Immunology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Recife, Brazil
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Pediatric Oncology Service, IMIP Hospital, Recife, Brazil
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Micro-RNA in Cholangiocarcinoma: Implications for Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Therapy. JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR PATHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/jmp3020009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Bile-duct cancers (BDC) are a group of solid tumors arising from the biliary tree. Despite their classification as rare cancers, the incidence of BDC is increasing worldwide. Poor prognosis is a common feature of this type of cancer and is mainly determined by the following factors: late diagnosis, lack of effective therapeutic approaches, and resistance to conventional treatments. In the past few years, next-generation sequencing technologies has allowed us to study the genome, exome, and transcriptome of BDC deeper, revealing a previously underestimated class of RNA: the noncoding RNA (ncRNA). MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small ncRNAs that play an important regulatory role in gene expression. The aberrant expression of miRNAs and their pivotal role as oncogenes or tumor suppressors in biliary carcinogenesis has been widely described in BDC. Due to their ability to regulate multiple gene networks, miRNAs are involved in all cancer hallmarks, including sustaining proliferative signaling, evading growth suppressors, resisting cell death, enabling replicative immortality, inducing/accessing vasculature, activating invasion and metastasis, reprogramming cellular metabolism, and avoiding immune destruction. Their use as diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive biomarkers has been widely explored in several human cancers, including BDC. Furthermore, miRNA-based therapeutic strategies are currently the subject of numerous clinical trials that are providing evidence of their efficacy as potent anticancer agents. In this review, we will provide a detailed update of miRNAs affecting BDC, discussing their regulatory function in processes underlying the molecular pathology of BDC. Finally, an overview of their potential use as biomarkers or therapeutic tools in BDC will be further addressed.
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24
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Targeting non-coding RNAs to overcome cancer therapy resistance. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:121. [PMID: 35418578 PMCID: PMC9008121 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-00975-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 160] [Impact Index Per Article: 80.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
It is now well known that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), rather than protein-coding transcripts, are the preponderant RNA transcripts. NcRNAs, particularly microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), are widely appreciated as pervasive regulators of multiple cancer hallmarks such as proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, metastasis, and genomic instability. Despite recent discoveries in cancer therapy, resistance to chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy continue to be a major setback. Recent studies have shown that ncRNAs also play a major role in resistance to different cancer therapies by rewiring essential signaling pathways. In this review, we present the intricate mechanisms through which dysregulated ncRNAs control resistance to the four major types of cancer therapies. We will focus on the current clinical implications of ncRNAs as biomarkers to predict treatment response (intrinsic resistance) and to detect resistance to therapy after the start of treatment (acquired resistance). Furthermore, we will present the potential of targeting ncRNA to overcome cancer treatment resistance, and we will discuss the challenges of ncRNA-targeted therapy—especially the development of delivery systems.
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25
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Hsa-miR-30a-3p overcomes the acquired protective autophagy of bladder cancer in chemotherapy and suppresses tumor growth and muscle invasion. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:390. [PMID: 35449123 PMCID: PMC9023440 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04791-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Bladder cancer (BC) is the second most common urologic cancer in western countries. New strategies for managing high-grade muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) are urgently required because MIBC has a high risk of recurrence and poor survival. A growing body of evidence indicates that microRNA has potent antitumorigenic properties in various cancers, and thus, therapeutic strategies based on microRNA may show promising results in cancer therapy. Analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database indicated that hsa-miR-30a-3p is downregulated in human BC. Our in vitro investigation demonstrated that hsa-miR-30a-3p suppresses the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and MMP-9 and reduces the cell invasive potential of BC cells. Furthermore, hsa-miR-30a-3p directly targets ATG5, ATG12, and Beclin 1; this in turn improves the chemosensitivity of BC cells to cisplatin through the repression of protective autophagy. In a tumor-xenograft mice model, hsa-miR-30a-3p suppressed muscle invasion. Cotreatment with hsa-miR-30a-3p enhanced the antitumor effect of cisplatin in reducing tumor growth in BC. The current study provides a novel strategy of using hsa-miR-30a-3p as an adjuvant or replacement therapy in future BC treatment.
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26
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Han Z, Estephan RJ, Wu X, Su C, Yuan YC, Qin H, Kil SH, Morales C, Schmolze D, Sanchez JF, Tian L, Yu J, Kortylewski M, Rosen ST, Querfeld C. MicroRNA Regulation of T-Cell Exhaustion in Cutaneous T Cell Lymphoma. J Invest Dermatol 2022; 142:603-612.e7. [PMID: 34774537 PMCID: PMC8860868 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2021.08.447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Cutaneous T cell lymphoma (CTCL) is characterized by a background of chronic inflammation, where malignant CTCL cells escape immune surveillance. To study how microRNAs (miRs) regulate T-cell exhaustion, we performed miR sequencing analysis, qRT-PCR, and in situ hybridization on 45 primary CTCL samples, three healthy skin samples, and CTCL cell lines, identifying miR-155-5p, miR-130b-3p, and miR-21-3p. Moreover, miR-155-5p, miR-130b-3p, and miR-21-3p positively correlated with immune checkpoint gene expression in lesional skin samples and were enriched in the IL-6/Jak/signal transducer and activator of transcription signaling pathway by gene set enrichment analysis. Further gene sequencing analysis showed decreased mRNA expression of the major negative regulators of Jak/signal transducer and activator of transcription signaling: SOCS, PIAS, and PTPN. Transfection of MyLa and HuT78 cells with anti-miR-155-5p, anti‒miR-21-3p, and anti‒miR-130b revealed a considerable increase in SOCS proteins along with a significant decrease in the levels of activated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 and immune checkpoint surface protein expression as well as decreased cell proliferation. Downregulation of miR-155, miR-130, and miR-21 in CTCL cell lines decreased CTCL cell growth and facilitated CD8+ T-cell-mediated cytotoxic activity, with concordant production of IFN-γ and CD107a expression. Our results describe the mechanisms of miR-induced T-cell exhaustion, which provide a foundation for developing synthetic anti-miRs to therapeutically target the tumor microenvironment in CTCL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Han
- Division of Dermatology, Duarte, CA, USA,Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Renee J. Estephan
- Irell and Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Xiwei Wu
- Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA, USA,Department of Integrative Genomics, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Chingyu Su
- Division of Dermatology, Duarte, CA, USA,Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Yate-Ching Yuan
- Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA, USA,Division of Translational Bioinformatics, Center for Informatics, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Hanjun Qin
- Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA, USA,Department of Integrative Genomics, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Sung Hee Kil
- Division of Dermatology, Duarte, CA, USA,Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Corey Morales
- Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA, USA,Department of Hematology/ Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, Duarte, CA, USA
| | | | - James F. Sanchez
- Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA, USA,Department of Hematology/ Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Lei Tian
- Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA, USA,Department of Hematology/ Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Jianhua Yu
- Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA, USA,Department of Hematology/ Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Marcin Kortylewski
- Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA, USA,Department of Immuno-Oncology, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Steven T. Rosen
- Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA, USA,Department of Hematology/ Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Christiane Querfeld
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA; Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA; Department of Hematology & Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA; Department of Pathology, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA.
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27
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Pandey PR, Young KH, Kumar D, Jain N. RNA-mediated immunotherapy regulating tumor immune microenvironment: next wave of cancer therapeutics. Mol Cancer 2022; 21:58. [PMID: 35189921 PMCID: PMC8860277 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-022-01528-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractAccumulating research suggests that the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) plays an essential role in regulation of tumor growth and metastasis. The cellular and molecular nature of the TIME influences cancer progression and metastasis by altering the ratio of immune- suppressive versus cytotoxic responses in the vicinity of the tumor. Targeting or activating the TIME components show a promising therapeutic avenue to combat cancer. The success of immunotherapy is both astounding and unsatisfactory in the clinic. Advancements in RNA-based technology have improved understanding of the complexity and diversity of the TIME and its effects on therapy. TIME-related RNA or RNA regulators could be promising targets for anticancer immunotherapy. In this review, we discuss the available RNA-based cancer immunotherapies targeting the TIME. More importantly, we summarize the potential of various RNA-based therapeutics clinically available for cancer treatment. RNA-dependent targeting of the TIME, as monotherapy or combined with other evolving therapeutics, might be beneficial for cancer patients’ treatment in the near future.
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28
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Regulation of Immune Cells by microRNAs and microRNA-Based Cancer Immunotherapy. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1385:75-108. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-08356-3_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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29
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Nguyen MHT, Luo YH, Li AL, Tsai JC, Wu KL, Chung PJ, Ma N. miRNA as a Modulator of Immunotherapy and Immune Response in Melanoma. Biomolecules 2021; 11:1648. [PMID: 34827646 PMCID: PMC8615556 DOI: 10.3390/biom11111648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors are a promising therapy for the treatment of cancers, including melanoma, that improved benefit clinical outcomes. However, a subset of melanoma patients do not respond or acquire resistance to immunotherapy, which limits their clinical applicability. Recent studies have explored the reasons related to the resistance of melanoma to immune checkpoint inhibitors. Of note, miRNAs are the regulators of not only cancer progression but also of the response between cancer cells and immune cells. Investigation of miRNA functions within the tumor microenvironment have suggested that miRNAs could be considered as key partners in immunotherapy. Here, we reviewed the known mechanism by which melanoma induces resistance to immunotherapy and the role of miRNAs in immune responses and the microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mai-Huong Thi Nguyen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, National Central University, Taoyuan 320317, Taiwan; (M.-H.T.N.); (A.-L.L.); (K.-L.W.); (P.-J.C.)
| | - Yueh-Hsia Luo
- Department of Life Sciences, National Central University, Taoyuan 320317, Taiwan;
| | - An-Lun Li
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, National Central University, Taoyuan 320317, Taiwan; (M.-H.T.N.); (A.-L.L.); (K.-L.W.); (P.-J.C.)
| | - Jen-Chieh Tsai
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300044, Taiwan;
- Institute of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Research, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli 350401, Taiwan
| | - Kun-Lin Wu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, National Central University, Taoyuan 320317, Taiwan; (M.-H.T.N.); (A.-L.L.); (K.-L.W.); (P.-J.C.)
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taoyuan Armed Forces General Hospital, Taoyuan 325208, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Jung Chung
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, National Central University, Taoyuan 320317, Taiwan; (M.-H.T.N.); (A.-L.L.); (K.-L.W.); (P.-J.C.)
| | - Nianhan Ma
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, National Central University, Taoyuan 320317, Taiwan; (M.-H.T.N.); (A.-L.L.); (K.-L.W.); (P.-J.C.)
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30
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Host miRNA and immune cell interactions: relevance in nano-therapeutics for human health. Immunol Res 2021; 70:1-18. [PMID: 34716546 DOI: 10.1007/s12026-021-09247-8] [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: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Around 2200 miRNA (microRNA) genes were found in the human genome. miRNAs are arranged in clusters within the genome and share the same transcriptional regulatory units. It has been revealed that approximately 50% of miRNAs elucidated in the genome are transcribed from non-protein-coding genes, and the leftover miRNAs are present in the introns of coding sequences. We are now approaching a stage in which miRNA diagnostics and therapies can be established confidently, and several commercial efforts are underway to carry these innovations from the bench to the clinic. MiRNAs control many of the significant cellular activities such as production, differentiation, growth, and metabolism. Particularly in the immune system, miRNAs have emerged as a crucial biological component during diseased state and homeostasis. miRNAs have been found to regulate inflammatory responses and autoimmune disorders. Moreover, each miRNA targets multiple genes simultaneously, making miRNAs promising tools as diagnostic biomarkers and as remedial targets. Still, one of the major obstacles in miRNA-based approaches is the achievement of specific and efficient systemic delivery of miRNAs. To overcome these challenges, nanoformulations have been synthesized to protect miRNAs from degradation and enhance cellular uptake. The current review deals with the miRNA-mediated regulation of the recruitment and activation of immune cells, especially in the tumor microenvironment, viral infection, inflammation, and autoimmunity. The nano-based miRNA delivery modes are also discussed here, especially in the context of immune modulation.
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31
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De Silva S, Tennekoon KH, Karunanayake EH. Interaction of Gut Microbiome and Host microRNAs with the Occurrence of Colorectal and Breast Cancer and Their Impact on Patient Immunity. Onco Targets Ther 2021; 14:5115-5129. [PMID: 34712050 PMCID: PMC8548058 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s329383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast and colorectal cancers are two primary malignancies on which most of the research done worldwide investigates the potential genetic and environmental risk factors and thereby tries to develop therapeutic methods to improve prognosis. Breast cancer is the most diagnosed cancer type in women, while colorectal cancer is diagnosed in males as the third most and females as the second most cancer type. Though these two cancer types are predominantly seen in adult patients worldwide, in the current context, these malignancies are diagnosed at a younger age with a significant rate of incidents than previous. Such early-onset cancers are generally present at an advanced stage of the most aggressive type with a poor prognosis. In the past, the focus of the research was mainly on studying possible candidate genes to understand the onset. However, it is now recognized that genetics, epigenetics, and other environmental factors play a pivotal role in cancer susceptibility. Thus, most studies were diversified to study the behavior of host microRNAs, and the involvement of gut microbiota and good communication between them surfaced in the occurrence and state of the disease. It is understood that the impact of these factors affects the outcome of the disease. Out of the adverse outcomes identified relating to the disease, immunosuppression is one of the most concerning outcomes in the current world, where such individuals remain vulnerable to infections. Recent studies revealed that microbiome and microRNA could create a considerable impact on immunosuppression. This review focused on the behavior of host microRNAs and gut microbiome for the onset of the disease and progression, thereby influencing an individual's immunosuppression. Understanding the interactions among microRNA, microbiome, presentation of the disease, and impact on the immune system will be immensely useful for developing future therapeutic strategies based on targeting host microRNA and the patient's gut microbiome. Therapies such as inhibitory-miRNA therapies, miRNA mimic-based therapeutics, immune checkpoint blockade therapies, and bacteria-assisted tumor-targeted therapies help modulate cancer. At the same time, it paid equal attention to potential noninvasive biomarkers in diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutics in both cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumadee De Silva
- Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Colombo, Colombo, 03, Sri Lanka
| | - Kamani Hemamala Tennekoon
- Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Colombo, Colombo, 03, Sri Lanka
| | - Eric Hamilton Karunanayake
- Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Colombo, Colombo, 03, Sri Lanka
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32
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Footprints of microRNAs in Cancer Biology. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9101494. [PMID: 34680611 PMCID: PMC8533183 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9101494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short non-coding RNAs involved in post-transcriptional gene regulation. Over the past years, various studies have demonstrated the role of aberrant miRNA expression in the onset of cancer. The mechanisms by which miRNA exerts its cancer-promoting or inhibitory effects are apparent through the various cancer hallmarks, which include selective proliferative advantage, altered stress response, vascularization, invasion and metastasis, metabolic rewiring, the tumor microenvironment and immune modulation; therefore, this review aims to highlight the association between miRNAs and the various cancer hallmarks by dissecting the mechanisms of miRNA regulation in each hallmark separately. It is hoped that the information presented herein will provide further insights regarding the role of cancer and serve as a guideline to evaluate the potential of microRNAs to be utilized as biomarkers and therapeutic targets on a larger scale in cancer research.
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Wu Z, Zhang C, Najafi M. Targeting of the tumor immune microenvironment by metformin. J Cell Commun Signal 2021; 16:333-348. [PMID: 34611852 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-021-00648-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Stimulating antitumor immunity is an attractive idea for suppressing tumors. CD4 + and CD8 + T cells as well as natural killer cells (NK) are the primary antitumor immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME). In contrast to these cells, regulatory T cells (Tregs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) release several molecules to suppress antitumor immunity and stimulate cancer cell invasion and proliferation. Adjuvant treatment with certain nontoxic agents is interesting to boost antitumor immunity. Metformin, which is known as an antidiabetes drug, can modulate both antitumor and protumor immune cells within TME. It has the ability to induce the proliferation of CD8 + T lymphocytes and NK cells. On the other hand, metformin attenuates polarization toward TAMs, CAFs, and Tregs. Metformin also may stimulate the antitumor activity of immune system cells, while it interrupts the positive cross-talk and interactions between immunosuppressive cells and cancer cells. The purpose of this review is to explain the basic mechanisms for the interactions and communications between immunosuppressive, anti-tumoral, and cancer cells within TME. Next, we discuss the modulating effects of metformin on various cells and secretions in TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihong Wu
- Department of Oncology, The NO.3 People's Hospital of Hubei Province, Jianghan University, Wuhan, 430033, Hubei, China
| | - Caidie Zhang
- Emergency Department, Wuhan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430014, Hubei, China.
| | - Masoud Najafi
- Medical Technology Research Center, Institute of Health Technology, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
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34
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The Role of Oncogenes and Redox Signaling in the Regulation of PD-L1 in Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13174426. [PMID: 34503236 PMCID: PMC8431622 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13174426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor cells can evade the immune system via multiple mechanisms, including the dysregulation of the immune checkpoint signaling. These signaling molecules are important factors that can either stimulate or inhibit tumor immune response. Under normal physiological conditions, the interaction between programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) and its receptor, programmed cell death 1 (PD-1), negatively regulates T cell function. In cancer cells, high expression of PD-L1 plays a key role in cancer evasion of the immune surveillance and seems to be correlated with clinical response to immunotherapy. As such, it is important to understand various mechanisms by which PD-L1 is regulated. In this review article, we provide an up-to-date review of the different mechanisms that regulate PD-L1 expression in cancer. We will focus on the roles of oncogenic signals (c-Myc, EML4-ALK, K-ras and p53 mutants), growth factor receptors (EGFR and FGFR), and redox signaling in the regulation of PD-L1 expression and discuss their clinical relevance and therapeutic implications. These oncogenic signalings have common and distinct regulatory mechanisms and can also cooperatively control tumor PD-L1 expression. Finally, strategies to target PD-L1 expression in tumor microenvironment including combination therapies will be also discussed.
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35
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Arraiano CM. Regulatory noncoding RNAs: functions and applications in health and disease. FEBS J 2021; 288:6308-6309. [PMID: 34153158 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Science is facing a new RNA world that is shaping our knowledge, and we are discovering a new horizon in molecular biology. New technologies revealed thousands and thousands of new RNAs, most of them located in what was once known as the "dark matter of DNA". They are functional regulatory RNAs and do not code for proteins, and they orchestrate the cellular function according to the changes needed. These noncoding RNAs are ubiquitous, and they are present from viruses to humans. In this Virtual Issue, The FEBS Journal features a collection of recent articles on long noncoding RNAs, microRNAs, and circular RNAs. It gives a broad perspective regarding their role in vascular diseases, ocular diseases, immune cell development and homeostasis, inflammation, production of extracellular matrix, and cancer. Furthermore, review-type articles highlight the potential use of noncoding RNAs in a wide range of applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecília Maria Arraiano
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
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36
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MicroRNA-326 attenuates immune escape and prevents metastasis in lung adenocarcinoma by targeting PD-L1 and B7-H3. Cell Death Discov 2021; 7:145. [PMID: 34131111 PMCID: PMC8206349 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-021-00527-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor-infiltrating T cells are highly expressive of inhibitory receptor/immune checkpoint molecules that bind to ligand expressed by tumor cells and antigen-presenting cells, and eventually lead to T cell dysfunction. It is a hot topic to restore T cell function by targeting immune checkpoint. In recent years, immunotherapy of blocking immune checkpoint and its receptor, such as PD-L1/PD-1 targeted therapy, has made effective progress, which brings hope for patients with advanced malignant tumor. However, only a few patients benefit from directly targeting these checkpoints or their receptors by small compounds or antibodies. Since the complexity of the regulation of immune checkpoints in tumor cells, further research is needed to identify the novel endogenous regulators of immune checkpoints which can help for developing effective drug target to improve the effect of immunotherapy. Here, we verified that microRNA-326 (miR-326) repressed the gene expression of immune checkpoint molecules PD-L1 and B7-H3 in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). We detected that the expression of miR-326 in LUAD tissue was negatively correlated with PD-L1/B7-H3. The repression of PD-L1 and B7-H3 expression through miR-326 overexpression leads to the modification the cytokine profile of CD8+ T cells and decreased migration capability of tumor cells. Meanwhile, the downregulation of miR-326 promoted tumor cell migration. Moreover, blocking PD-L1 and B7-H3 attenuated the tumor-promoting effect induced by miR-326 inhibitor. In tumor-bearing mice, the infiltration of CD8+ T cells was significantly increased and the expression of TNF-α, and IFN-γ was significantly enhanced which contributed to tumor progression after miR-326 overexpression. Collectively, miR-326 restrained tumor progression by downregulating PD-L1 and B7-H3 expression and increasing T cell cytotoxic function in LUAD. Our findings revealed a novel perspective on the complex regulation of immune checkpoint molecules. A new strategy of using miR-326 in tumor immunotherapy is proposed.
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Vahabi M, Blandino G, Di Agostino S. MicroRNAs in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: a possible challenge as biomarkers, determinants for the choice of therapy and targets for personalized molecular therapies. Transl Cancer Res 2021; 10:3090-3110. [PMID: 35116619 PMCID: PMC8797920 DOI: 10.21037/tcr-20-2530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) are referred to a group of heterogeneous cancers that include structures of aerodigestive tract such as oral and nasal cavity, salivary glands, oropharynx, pharynx, larynx, paranasal sinuses, and local lymph nodes. HNSCC is characterized by frequent alterations of several genes such as TP53, PIK3CA, CDKN2A, NOTCH1, and MET as well as copy number increase in EGFR, CCND1, and PIK3CA. These genomic alterations play a role in terms of resistance to chemotherapy, molecular targeted therapy, and prediction of patient outcome. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small single-stranded noncoding RNAs which are about 19-25 nucleotides. They are involved in the tumorigenesis of HNSCC including dysregulation of cell survival, proliferation, cellular differentiation, adhesion, and invasion. The discovery of the stable presence of the miRNAs in all human body made them attractive biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis or as targets for novel therapeutic ways, enabling personalized treatment for HNSCC. In recent times the number of papers concerning the characterization of miRNAs in the HNSCC tumorigenesis has grown a lot. In this review, we discuss the very recent studies on different aspects of miRNA dysregulation with their clinical significance and we apologize for the many past and most recent works that have not been mentioned. We also discuss miRNA-based therapy that are being tested on patients by clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahrou Vahabi
- IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Oncogenomic and Epigenetic Laboratory, via Elio Chianesi, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Blandino
- IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Oncogenomic and Epigenetic Laboratory, via Elio Chianesi, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Di Agostino
- Department of Health Sciences, University “Magna Graecia” of Catanzaro, viale Europa, Catanzaro, Italy
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Minari R, Bonatti F, Mazzaschi G, Dodi A, Facchinetti F, Gelsomino F, Cinquegrani G, Squadrilli A, Bordi P, Buti S, Bersanelli M, Leonetti A, Cosenza A, Ferri L, Rapacchi E, Quaini F, Ardizzoni A, Tiseo M. PD-L1 SNPs as biomarkers to define benefit in patients with advanced NSCLC treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors. TUMORI JOURNAL 2021; 108:47-55. [PMID: 34002648 DOI: 10.1177/03008916211014954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the role of CTLA-4, PD-1 (programmed death-1), and PD-L1 (programmed death-ligand 1) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in predicting clinical outcome of patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). METHODS A total of 166 consecutive patients were included. We correlated SNPs with clinical benefit, progression-free survival, time to treatment failure, and overall survival and evaluated the incidence of SNPs in nonresponder and long clinical benefit groups. RESULTS Considering the entire cohort, no correlation was found between SNPs and clinical outcome; however, PD-L1 rs4143815 SNP and the long clinical benefit group showed a statistically significant association (p = 0.02). The nonresponder cohort displayed distinctive PD-L1 haplotype (p = 0.05). CONCLUSION PD-L1 SNPs seem to be marginally involved in predicting clinical outcome of NSCLC treated with ICI, but further investigations are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Minari
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | | | - Giulia Mazzaschi
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy.,Department of Medicine & Surgery, University of Parma
| | | | - Francesco Facchinetti
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy.,Université Paris-Saclay, Institut Gustave Roussy, Inserm, Biomarqueurs Prédictifs et Nouvelles Stratégies Thérapeutiques en Oncologie, Villejuif, France
| | | | | | - Anna Squadrilli
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Paola Bordi
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Buti
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | | | | | - Agnese Cosenza
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Leonarda Ferri
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Elena Rapacchi
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Ardizzoni
- Medical Oncology, AOU Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marcello Tiseo
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy.,Department of Medicine & Surgery, University of Parma
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Gramantieri L, Giovannini C, Piscaglia F, Fornari F. MicroRNAs as Modulators of Tumor Metabolism, Microenvironment, and Immune Response in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2021; 8:369-385. [PMID: 34012928 PMCID: PMC8126872 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s268292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Molecular heterogeneity and absence of biomarkers helping patient allocation to the best therapeutic option contribute to poor prognosis in advanced stages. MicroRNAs’ (miRNAs) deregulated expression contributes to tumor development and progression and influences drug resistance in HCC. Accordingly, miRNAs have been extensively investigated as both biomarkers and therapeutic targets. The diagnostic and prognostic roles of circulating miRNAs have been ascertained, though with some inconsistencies across studies. From a therapeutic perspective, miRNA-based approaches demonstrated safety profiles and antitumor efficacy in HCC animal models. Nevertheless, caution should be used when transferring preclinical findings to the clinic, due to possible molecular inconsistency between animal models and the heterogeneous patterns of human diseases. A wealth of information is offered by preclinical studies exploring the mechanisms driving miRNAs’ aberrant expression, the molecular cascades triggered by miRNAs and the corresponding phenotypic changes. Ex-vivo analyses confirmed these results, further shedding light on the intricacy of the human disease often overcoming pre-clinical models. This complexity seems to be ascribed to the intrinsic heterogeneity of HCC, to different risk factors driving its development, as well as to changes across stages and previous treatments. Preliminary findings suggest that miRNAs associated with specific risk factors might be more informative in defined patients’ subgroups. The first issue to be considered when trying to envisage a possible translational perspective is the molecular context that often drives different miRNA functions, as clearly evidenced by “dual” miRNAs. Concerning the possible roles of miRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets, we will focus on miRNAs’ involvement in metabolic pathways and in the modulation of tumor microenvironment, to support their exploitation in defined contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Gramantieri
- Division of Internal Medicine, Hepatobiliary and Immunoallergic Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Catia Giovannini
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Centre for Applied Biomedical Research - CRBA, University of Bologna, St. Orsola Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Fabio Piscaglia
- Division of Internal Medicine, Hepatobiliary and Immunoallergic Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Fornari
- Centre for Applied Biomedical Research - CRBA, University of Bologna, St. Orsola Hospital, Bologna, Italy.,Department for Life Quality Studies (QuVi), University of Bologna, Rimini, Italy
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Role of p53-miRNAs circuitry in immune surveillance and cancer development: A potential avenue for therapeutic intervention. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2021; 124:15-25. [PMID: 33875349 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 03/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The genome's guardian, p53, is a master regulatory transcription factor that occupies sequence-specific response elements in many genes and modulates their expression. The target genes transcribe both coding RNA and non-coding RNA involved in regulating several biological processes such as cell division, differentiation, and cell death. Besides, p53 also regulates tumor immunology via regulating the molecules related to the immune response either directly or via regulating other molecules, including microRNAs (miRNAs). At the post-transcriptional level, the regulations of genes by miRNAs have been an emerging mechanism. Interestingly, p53 and various miRNAs cross-talk at different regulation levels. The cross-talk between p53 and miRNAs creates loops, turns, and networks that can influence cell metabolism, cell fate, cellular homeostasis, and tumor formation. Further, p53-miRNAs circuit has also been insinuated in the regulation of immune surveillance machinery. There are several examples of p53-miRNAs circuitry where p53 regulates immunomodulatory miRNA expression, such as miR-34a and miR-17-92. Similarly, a reverse process occurs in which miRNAs such as miR-125b and miR-let-7 regulate the expression of p53. Thus, the p53-miRNAs circuitry connects the immunomodulatory pathways and may shift the pro-inflammatory balance towards the pro-tumorigenic condition. In this review, we discuss the influence of p53-miRNAs circuitry in modulating the immune response in cancer development. We assume that thorough studies on the p53-miRNAs circuitry in various cancers may prove useful in developing effective new cancer therapeutics for successfully combating this disease.
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The Anticancer Effects of Flavonoids through miRNAs Modulations in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13041212. [PMID: 33916931 PMCID: PMC8067583 DOI: 10.3390/nu13041212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple- negative breast cancer (TNBC) incidence rate has regularly risen over the last decades and is expected to increase in the future. Finding novel treatment options with minimum or no toxicity is of great importance in treating or preventing TNBC. Flavonoids are new attractive molecules that might fulfill this promising therapeutic option. Flavonoids have shown many biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. In addition to their anticancer effects by arresting the cell cycle, inducing apoptosis, and suppressing cancer cell proliferation, flavonoids can modulate non-coding microRNAs (miRNAs) function. Several preclinical and epidemiological studies indicate the possible therapeutic potential of these compounds. Flavonoids display a unique ability to change miRNAs' levels via different mechanisms, either by suppressing oncogenic miRNAs or activating oncosuppressor miRNAs or affecting transcriptional, epigenetic miRNA processing in TNBC. Flavonoids are not only involved in the regulation of miRNA-mediated cancer initiation, growth, proliferation, differentiation, invasion, metastasis, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), but also control miRNAs-mediated biological processes that significantly impact TNBC, such as cell cycle, immune system, mitochondrial dysregulation, modulating signaling pathways, inflammation, and angiogenesis. In this review, we highlighted the role of miRNAs in TNBC cancer progression and the effect of flavonoids on miRNA regulation, emphasizing their anticipated role in the prevention and treatment of TNBC.
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Cancer Stem Cells Are Possible Key Players in Regulating Anti-Tumor Immune Responses: The Role of Immunomodulating Molecules and MicroRNAs. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13071674. [PMID: 33918136 PMCID: PMC8037840 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13071674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary This review provides a critical overview of the state of the art of the characterization of the immunological profile of a rare component of the tumors, denominated cancer stem cells (CSCs) or cancer initiating cells (CICs). These cells are endowed with the ability to form and propagate tumors and resistance to therapies, including the most innovative approaches. These investigations contribute to understanding the mechanisms regulating the interaction of CSCs/CICs with the immune system and identifying novel therapeutic approaches to render these cells visible and susceptible to immune responses. Abstract Cancer cells endowed with stemness properties and representing a rare population of cells within malignant lesions have been isolated from tumors with different histological origins. These cells, denominated as cancer stem cells (CSCs) or cancer initiating cells (CICs), are responsible for tumor initiation, progression and resistance to therapies, including immunotherapy. The dynamic crosstalk of CSCs/CICs with the tumor microenvironment orchestrates their fate and plasticity as well as their immunogenicity. CSCs/CICs, as observed in multiple studies, display either the aberrant expression of immunomodulatory molecules or suboptimal levels of molecules involved in antigen processing and presentation, leading to immune evasion. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) that can regulate either stemness properties or their immunological profile, with in some cases dual functions, can provide insights into these mechanisms and possible interventions to develop novel therapeutic strategies targeting CSCs/CICs and reverting their immunogenicity. In this review, we provide an overview of the immunoregulatory features of CSCs/CICs including miRNA profiles involved in the regulation of the interplay between stemness and immunological properties.
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Zhou J, Wang W, Li Q. Potential therapeutic targets in the tumor microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma: reversing the protumor effect of tumor-associated macrophages. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2021; 40:73. [PMID: 33596985 PMCID: PMC7890827 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-01873-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In hepatocellular carcinoma patients, due to the microenvironmental specificity of liver, the tumor microenvironment exhibits high immunosuppression and drug resistance, resulting in excessive or insufficient responses to immunotherapy. The dynamic interactions between tumor cells and immune modulators in the TME significantly impact the occurrence and development of tumors, efficacy, and drug resistance, which can create a much more positive response to immunotherapy. Moreover, with the wide application of single-cell sequencing technology in the TME, increasing evidence shows an interaction network among cells. Sequencing results suggest that specific tumor-associated macrophages are a hub node, connecting different cell populations in the cell interaction network, and can could regulate tumor generation and antitumor immunity. This review focused on therapeutic targets that could be targeted to remodel the tumor microenvironment and reprogram the tumor-associated macrophage phenotype in hepatocellular carcinoma patients, thereby improving immunotherapeutic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyi Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Weiyu Wang
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Qi Li
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai, 200080, People's Republic of China.
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Grenda A, Krawczyk P, Błach J, Chmielewska I, Kubiatowski T, Kieszko S, Wojas-Krawczyk K, Kucharczyk T, Jarosz B, Paśnik I, Borowiec-Bar M, Frąk M, Kieszko R, Szczyrek M, Reszka K, Krukowska K, Kolak A, Mańdziuk S, Kowalski D, Sawicki M, Świniuch D, Starosławska E, Ramlau R, Szumiło J, Krzakowski M, Milanowski J. Tissue MicroRNA Expression as a Predictor of Response to Immunotherapy in NSCLC Patients. Front Oncol 2021; 10:563613. [PMID: 33628725 PMCID: PMC7897665 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.563613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Expression of PD-L1 protein on tumor cells, which is so far the only validated predictive factor for immunotherapy, is regulated by epigenetic and genetic factors. Among the most important ones that regulate gene expression are microRNAs. Materials and Methods The study included 60 patients with NSCLC who underwent first or second line immunotherapy with pembrolizumab or nivolumab. FFPE materials were collected before the start of immunotherapy. We examined relative expression of microRNAs (miR-141, miR-200a, miR-200b, miR-200c, miR-429, miR-508-3p, miR-1184, miR-1255a) and PD-L1 mRNA expression. Copy number variation (CNV) of PD-L1 gene by qPCR and FISH methods were assessed. Two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in promoter region of PD-L1 gene (rs822335 and rs822336) were examined. Expression of PD-L1 protein on tumor cells was assessed by immunohistochemistry (IHC). The response rate to immunotherapy and progression free survival (PFS) measured in weeks and overall survival (OS) measured in months from the start of immunotherapy were evaluated. Results Response to immunotherapy was observed in nine patients (15%, including one complete response), disease stabilization in 22 patients (36.7%), and progression in 29 patients (48.3%). Significantly higher (p=0.015) expression of miR-200b and significantly lower (p=0.043) expression of miR-429 were observed in responders compared to patients who did not respond to immunotherapy. The median PFS in the whole group of patients was 16 weeks, and the median OS was 10.5 month. In univariate analysis, the median PFS was significantly higher in patients with high miR-200b expression (HR=0.4253, 95%CI: 0.1737–1.0417, p=0.05) and high miR-508 expression (HR=0.4401, 95%CI: 0.1903–1.0178, p=0.05) and with low expression of miR-429 (HR=0.1288, 95%CI: 0.01727–0.9606, p=0.0456) compared to patients with low and high expression of these molecules, respectively. The median OS was higher in patients with low expression of miR-429 (HR=0,6288, 95%CI: 0,3053–1,2949, p=0.06) compared with patients with high expression of this microRNA. In multivariate analysis, we found that patients with PD-L1 expression on ≥1% of tumor cells compared to patients without PD-L1 expression on cancer cells had a significantly lower risk of progression (HR=0.3857, 95%CI: 0.1612–0.9226, p=0.0323) and death (HR=0.377, 95%CI: 0.1636–0.8688, p=0.022). Conclusion The miR-200b and miR-429 molecules in tumor cells seem to have greatest impact on the effectiveness of immunotherapy in NSCLC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Grenda
- Department of Pneumonology, Oncology and Allergology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Paweł Krawczyk
- Department of Pneumonology, Oncology and Allergology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Justyna Błach
- Department of Pneumonology, Oncology and Allergology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Izabela Chmielewska
- Department of Pneumonology, Oncology and Allergology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Tomasz Kubiatowski
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Saint John of Dukla Oncology Centre of the Lublin Region, Lublin, Poland
| | - Stanisław Kieszko
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Saint John of Dukla Oncology Centre of the Lublin Region, Lublin, Poland
| | - Kamila Wojas-Krawczyk
- Department of Pneumonology, Oncology and Allergology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Tomasz Kucharczyk
- Department of Pneumonology, Oncology and Allergology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Bożena Jarosz
- Department of Neurosurgery and Paediatric Neurosurgery, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Iwona Paśnik
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Borowiec-Bar
- Department of Pneumonology, Oncology and Allergology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Frąk
- Department of Pneumonology, Oncology and Allergology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Robert Kieszko
- Department of Pneumonology, Oncology and Allergology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Michał Szczyrek
- Department of Pneumonology, Oncology and Allergology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Reszka
- Genetics and Immunology Institute of Lublin, Genim LLC, Lublin, Poland
| | - Kinga Krukowska
- Genetics and Immunology Institute of Lublin, Genim LLC, Lublin, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Kolak
- Department of Clinical Oncology and Chemotherapy, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Sławomir Mańdziuk
- Department of Clinical Oncology and Chemotherapy, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Dariusz Kowalski
- Department of Lung and Chest Cancer, The Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marek Sawicki
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Daria Świniuch
- Department of Oncology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Starosławska
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Saint John of Dukla Oncology Centre of the Lublin Region, Lublin, Poland
| | - Rodryg Ramlau
- Department of Oncology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Justyna Szumiło
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Maciej Krzakowski
- Department of Lung and Chest Cancer, The Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Janusz Milanowski
- Department of Pneumonology, Oncology and Allergology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
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Hashemzadeh N, Dolatkhah M, Adibkia K, Aghanejad A, Barzegar-Jalali M, Omidi Y, Barar J. Recent advances in breast cancer immunotherapy: The promising impact of nanomedicines. Life Sci 2021; 271:119110. [PMID: 33513401 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is one of the prevalent cancers among women. Generally, the treatment of BC is mostly based on several prominent strategies, including chemotherapy, surgery, endocrine therapy, molecular targeted therapy, and radiation. Owing to the growing knowledge about the complexity of BC pathobiology, immunotherapy as a promising treatment modality has substantially improved the patients' care in the clinic. Immunotherapy is used to harness the patient's immune system to recognize and battle devious cancer cells. As a novel therapy approach, this emerging strategy targets the key molecular entities of tumor tissue. To achieve maximal therapeutic impacts, the dynamic interplay between cancer and immune cells needs to be fully comprehended. The key molecular machinery of solid tumors can be targeted by nanoscale immunomedicines. While discussing the potential biomarkers involved in the initiation and progression of BC, we aimed to provide comprehensive insights into the immunotherapy and articulate the recent advances in terms of the therapeutic strategies used to control this disease, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, vaccines, chimeric antigen receptor T cells therapy, and nanomedicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nastaran Hashemzadeh
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Student Research Committee, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mitra Dolatkhah
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Student Research Committee, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Khosro Adibkia
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ayuob Aghanejad
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Barzegar-Jalali
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Yadollah Omidi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Jaleh Barar
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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Wagner M, Jasek M, Karabon L. Immune Checkpoint Molecules-Inherited Variations as Markers for Cancer Risk. Front Immunol 2021; 11:606721. [PMID: 33519815 PMCID: PMC7840570 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.606721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, immunotherapy has been revolutionized by a new approach that works by blocking receptors called immune checkpoints (IC). These molecules play a key role in maintaining immune homeostasis, mainly by suppressing the immune response and by preventing its overactivation. Since inhibition of the immune response by IC can be used by cancer to avoid recognition and destruction by immune system, blocking them enhances the anti-tumor response. This therapeutic approach has brought spectacular clinical effects. The ICs present heterogeneous expression patterns on immune cells, which may affect the effectiveness of immunotherapy. The inherited genetic variants in regulatory regions of ICs genes can be considered as potential factors responsible for observed inter-individual differences in ICs expression levels on immune cells. Additionally, polymorphism located in exons may introduce changes to ICs amino acid sequences with potential impact on functional properties of these molecules. Since genetic variants may affect both expression and structure of ICs, they are considered as risk factors of cancer development. Inherited genetic markers such as SNPs may also be useful in stratification patients into groups which will benefit from particular immunotherapy. In this review, we have comprehensively summarized the current understanding of the relationship between inherited variations of CTLA-4, PDCD1, PD-L1, BTLA, TIM-3, and LAG-3 genes in order to select SNPs which can be used as predictive biomarkers in personalized evaluation of cancer risk development and outcomes as well as possible response to immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Monika Jasek
- Laboratory of Genetics and Epigenetics of Human Diseases, Department of Experimental Therapy, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
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Patil N, Allgayer H, Leupold JH. MicroRNAs in the Tumor Microenvironment. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1277:1-31. [PMID: 33119862 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-50224-9_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is decisive for the eradication or survival of any tumor mass. Moreover, it plays a pivotal role for metastasis and for providing the metastatic niche. The TME offers special physiological conditions and is composed of, for example, surrounding blood vessels, the extracellular matrix (ECM), diverse signaling molecules, exosomes and several cell types including, but not being limited to, infiltrated immune cells, cancer-associated endothelial cells (CAEs), and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). These cells can additionally and significantly contribute to tumor and metastasis progression, especially also by acting via their own deregulated micro (mi) RNA expression or activity. Thus, miRNAs are essential players in the crosstalk between cancer cells and the TME. MiRNAs are small non-coding (nc) RNAs that typically inhibit translation and stability of messenger (m) RNAs, thus being able to regulate several cell functions including proliferation, migration, differentiation, survival, invasion, and several steps of the metastatic cascade. The dynamic interplay between miRNAs in different cell types or organelles such as exosomes, ECM macromolecules, and the TME plays critical roles in many aspects of cancer development. This chapter aims to give an overview on the multiple contributions of miRNAs as players within the TME, to summarize the role of miRNAs in the crosstalk between different cell populations found within the TME, and to illustrate how they act on tumorigenesis and the behavior of cells in the TME context. Lastly, the potential clinical utility of miRNAs for cancer therapy is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nitin Patil
- Department of Experimental Surgery - Cancer Metastasis, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht Karls University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
- Centre for Biomedicine and Medical Technology Mannheim (CBTM), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht Karls University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Heike Allgayer
- Department of Experimental Surgery - Cancer Metastasis, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht Karls University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
- Centre for Biomedicine and Medical Technology Mannheim (CBTM), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht Karls University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Jörg H Leupold
- Department of Experimental Surgery - Cancer Metastasis, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht Karls University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.
- Centre for Biomedicine and Medical Technology Mannheim (CBTM), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht Karls University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.
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Kushlinskii NE, Loginov VI, Utkin DO, Filippova EA, Burdennyy AM, Korotkova EA, Pronina IV, Lukina SS, Smirnova AV, Gershtein ES, Braga EA. Novel miRNAs as Potential Regulators of PD-1/PD-L1 Immune Checkpoint, and Prognostic Value of MIR9-1 and MIR124-2 Methylation in Ovarian Cancer. Mol Biol 2021. [DOI: 10.1134/s0026893320060072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Marisetty A, Wei J, Kong LY, Ott M, Fang D, Sabbagh A, Heimberger AB. MiR-181 Family Modulates Osteopontin in Glioblastoma Multiforme. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12123813. [PMID: 33348707 PMCID: PMC7765845 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12123813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary MicroRNAs can silence a broad set of target genes that may benefit heterogeneous tumors like glioblastoma. We have previously shown that osteopontin has an oncogenic role and may have immune modulatory effects on macrophages. In the current study, we used miRNAs to target osteopontin in tumor cells and modulate immune cells to elicit an antitumor effect. Intravenous delivery of miR-181a to immune competent mice bearing intracranial glioblastoma demonstrated a 22% increase in median survival duration relative to that of control mice. The overexpression of miR-181a in tumor cells led to decreased OPN production and proliferation and increased apoptosis in vitro, and increased survival duration of the mice when compared to its controls. miR-181a controls osteopontin expression in tumor cells by regulating their proliferation and apoptosis. Abstract MiRNAs can silence a wide range of genes, which may be an advantage for targeting heterogenous tumors like glioblastoma. Osteopontin (OPN) plays both an oncogenic role in a variety of cancers and can immune modulate macrophages. We conducted a genome wide profiling and bioinformatic analysis to identify miR-181a/b/c/d as potential miRNAs that target OPN. Luciferase assays confirmed the binding potential of miRNAs to OPN. Expression levels of miR-181a/b/c/d and OPN were evaluated by using quantitative real-time PCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in mouse and human glioblastomas and macrophages that showed these miRNAs were downregulated in Glioblastoma associated CD11b+ cells compared to their matched blood CD14b+ cells. miRNA mimicking and overexpression using lentiviruses showed that MiR-181a overexpression in glioblastoma cells led to decreased OPN production and proliferation and increased apoptosis in vitro. MiR-181a treatment of immune competent mice bearing intracranial glioblastoma demonstrated a 22% increase in median survival duration relative to that of control mice.
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Grzywa TM, Klicka K, Włodarski PK. Regulators at Every Step-How microRNAs Drive Tumor Cell Invasiveness and Metastasis. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E3709. [PMID: 33321819 PMCID: PMC7763175 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12123709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor cell invasiveness and metastasis are the main causes of mortality in cancer. Tumor progression is composed of many steps, including primary tumor growth, local invasion, intravasation, survival in the circulation, pre-metastatic niche formation, and metastasis. All these steps are strictly controlled by microRNAs (miRNAs), small non-coding RNA that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. miRNAs can act as oncomiRs that promote tumor cell invasion and metastasis or as tumor suppressor miRNAs that inhibit tumor progression. These miRNAs regulate the actin cytoskeleton, the expression of extracellular matrix (ECM) receptors including integrins and ECM-remodeling enzymes comprising matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and regulate epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), hence modulating cell migration and invasiveness. Moreover, miRNAs regulate angiogenesis, the formation of a pre-metastatic niche, and metastasis. Thus, miRNAs are biomarkers of metastases as well as promising targets of therapy. In this review, we comprehensively describe the role of various miRNAs in tumor cell migration, invasion, and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz M. Grzywa
- Department of Methodology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland; (T.M.G.); (K.K.)
- Doctoral School, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Immunology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Klaudia Klicka
- Department of Methodology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland; (T.M.G.); (K.K.)
- Doctoral School, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Paweł K. Włodarski
- Department of Methodology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland; (T.M.G.); (K.K.)
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