Down-regulated lncRNA HOTAIR alleviates polycystic ovaries syndrome in rats by reducing expression of insulin-like growth factor 1 via microRNA-130a

Whispers of the polycystic ovary syndrome theater: Directing role of long noncoding RNAs

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a multifaceted endocrine disorder that implicates a spectrum of clinical manifestations, including hormonal imbalance, metabolic dysfunction, and even compromised ovarian granulosa cell (GC) activity. The underlying molecular mechanisms of PCOS remain elusive, presenting a significant barrier to effective diagnosis and treatment. This review delves into the emerging role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the pathophysiology of PCOS, articulating their intricate interactions with mRNAs, microRNAs, and other epigenetic regulators that collectively influence the hormonal and metabolic milieu of PCOS. We examine the dynamic regulatory networks orchestrated by lncRNAs that impact GC function, steroidogenesis, insulin resistance, and inflammatory pathways. By integrating findings from recent studies, we illuminate the potential of lncRNAs as biomarkers for PCOS and highlight their contribution to the disorder, offering a detailed perspective on the lncRNA-mediated modulation of gene expression and pathogenic pathways. Understanding targeted lncRNA interactions with PCOS proposes novel avenues for therapeutic intervention to ameliorate the reproductive and metabolic disturbances characteristic of the syndrome.

Genetic and Epigenetic Landscape for Drug Development in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

The treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) faces challenges as all known treatments are merely symptomatic. The US Food and Drug Administration has not approved any drug specifically for treating PCOS. As the significance of genetics and epigenetics rises in drug development, their pivotal insights have greatly enhanced the efficacy and success of drug target discovery and validation, offering promise for guiding the advancement of PCOS treatments. In this context, we outline the genetic and epigenetic advancement in PCOS, which provide novel insights into the pathogenesis of this complex disease. We also delve into the prospective method for harnessing genetic and epigenetic strategies to identify potential drug targets and ensure target safety. Additionally, we shed light on the preliminary evidence and distinctive challenges associated with gene and epigenetic therapies in the context of PCOS.

Biomarker potential of competing endogenous RNA networks in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common condition affecting women of reproductive age globally. PCOS continues to be the largest contributing factor to female infertility despite significant progress in our knowledge of the molecular underpinnings and treatment of the condition. The fact that PCOS is a very diverse condition makes it one of the key reasons why we haven't been able to overcome it. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are implicated in the development of PCOS, according to growing evidence. However, it is unclear how the complex regulatory relationships between the many ncRNA types contribute to the growth of this malignancy. Competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA), a recently identified mechanism in the RNA world, suggests regulatory interactions between various RNAs, including long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), transcribed pseudogenes, and circular RNAs (circRNAs). Recent studies on PCOS have shown that dysregulation of multiple ceRNA networks (ceRNETs) between these ncRNAs plays crucial roles in developing the defining characteristics of PCOS development. And it is believed that such a finding may open a new door for a deeper comprehension of PCOS's unexplored facets. In addition, it may be able to provide fresh biomarkers and effective therapy targets for PCOS. This review will go over the body of information that exists about the primary roles of ceRNETs before highlighting the developing involvement of several newly found ceRNETs in a number of PCOS characteristics.

Granulosa Cells-Related MicroRNAs in Ovarian Diseases: Mechanism, Facts and Perspectives

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of short single-stranded, noncoding RNAs that affect the translation of mRNAs by imperfectly binding to homologous 3'UTRs. Research on miRNAs in ovarian diseases is constantly expanding because miRNAs are powerful regulators of gene expression and cellular processes and are promising biomarkers. miRNA mimics, miRNA inhibitors and molecules targeting miRNAs (antimiRs) have shown promise as novel therapeutic agents in preclinical development. Granulosa cells (GCs) are supporting cells for developing oocytes in the ovary. GCs regulate female reproductive health by producing sex hormones and LH receptors. Increasing research has reported the relevance of miRNAs in GC pathophysiology. With in-depth studies of disease mechanisms, there are an increasing number of studies on the biomolecular pathways of miRNAs in gynecology and endocrinology. In the present review, we summarize the different functions of GC-related microRNAs in various ovarian disorders, such as polycystic ovary syndrome, premature ovarian insufficiency, premature ovarian failure and ovarian granulosa cell tumors.

Unraveling the complexity of polycystic ovary syndrome with animal models

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a highly familial and heritable endocrine disorder. Over half of the daughters born to women with PCOS may eventually develop their own PCOS-related symptoms. Progress in the treatment of PCOS is currently hindered by the complexity of its clinical manifestations and incomplete knowledge of its etiopathogenesis. Various animal models, including experimentally induced, naturally occurring, and spontaneously arising ones, have been established to emulate a wide range of phenotypical and pathological traits of human PCOS. These studies have led to a paradigm shift in understanding the genetic, developmental, and evolutionary origins of this disorder. Furthermore, emerging evidence suggests that animal models are useful in evaluating state-of-the-art drugs and treatments for PCOS. This review aims to provide a comprehensive summary of recent studies of PCOS in animal models, highlighting the power of these disease models in understanding the biology of PCOS and aiding high-throughput approaches.

LncRNA HOTAIR regulates autophagy and proliferation mechanisms in premature ovarian insufficiency through the miR-148b-3p/ATG14 axis

Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a serious disease significantly affecting the physical and mental health of women of reproductive age, not just impacting fertility outcomes. Ovarian damage due to chemotherapy remains a major cause of this condition. Recent studies have indicated the involvement of the long non-coding RNA HOTAIR in the progression of various diseases, showcasing important biological functions, yet its role in POI remains unclear. We conducted microarray dataset analysis and qRT-PCR experiments, demonstrating downregulation of HOTAIR expression in ovarian tissue and granulosa cells. Various functional experiments using plasmids overexpressing HOTAIR confirmed its promotion of cisplatin-induced granulosa cell autophagy and proliferation. Mechanistically, dual-luciferase assays showed that HOTAIR modulates ATG14 levels in POI by binding miR-148b-3p, thereby enhancing levels of autophagy and proliferation. In this study, we first explored the impact of miR-148b-3p on POI and found that overexpression of miR-148b-3p reversed the promotion of autophagy and proliferation induced by HOTAIR overexpression. The inhibitory effect of miR-148b-3p inhibitor on KGN cell autophagy and proliferation improvement could also be reversed by silencing ATG14. Overall, our findings indicate the promoting role of HOTAIR in POI and its potential as a biomarker for POI by modulating the miR-148b-3p/ATG14 axis to improve mechanisms of autophagy and proliferation in POI.

The Role of MicroRNA, Long Non-Coding RNA and Circular RNA in the Pathogenesis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Literature Review

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine-metabolic disease in females of reproductive age, affecting 4-20% of pre-menopausal women worldwide. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenous, single-stranded, non-coding, regulatory ribonucleic acid molecules found in eukaryotic cells. Abnormal miRNA expression has been associated with several diseases and could possibly explain their underlying pathophysiology. MiRNAs have been extensively studied for their potential diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic uses in many diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, PCOS, and endometriosis. In women with PCOS, miRNAs were found to be abnormally expressed in theca cells, follicular fluid, granulosa cells, peripheral blood leukocytes, serum, and adipose tissue when compared to those without PCOS, making miRNAs a useful potential biomarker for the disease. Key pathways involved in PCOS, such as folliculogenesis, steroidogenesis, and cellular adhesion, are regulated by miRNA. This also highlights their importance as potential prognostic markers. In addition, recent evidence suggests a role for miRNAs in regulating the circadian rhythm (CR). CR is crucial for regulating reproduction through the various functions of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis and the ovaries. A disordered CR affects reproductive outcomes by inducing insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and systemic inflammation. Moreover, miRNAs were demonstrated to interact with lncRNA and circRNAs, which are thought to play a role in the pathogenesis of PCOS. This review discusses what is currently understood about miRNAs in PCOS, the cellular pathways involved, and their potential role as biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Long non-coding RNAs and female infertility: What do we know?

Ten percent of people who are of reproductive age experience infertility. Sometimes the most effective therapies, including technology for assisted reproduction, may lead to unsuccessful implantation. Because of the anticipated epigenetic alterations of in vitro as well as in vitro fertilization growth of embryos, these fertility techniques have also been linked to unfavorable pregnancy outcomes linked to infertility. In this regard, a variety of non-coding RNAs such as long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) act as epigenetic regulators in the various physiological and pathophysiological events such as infertility. LncRNAs have been made up of cytoplasmic and nuclear nucleotides; RNA polymerase II transcribes these, which are lengthier than 200 nt. LncRNAs perform critical roles in a number of biological procedures like nuclear transport, X chromosome inactivation, apoptosis, stem cell pluripotency, as well as genomic imprinting. A significant amount of lncRNAs were linked into a variety of biological procedures as high throughput sequencing technology advances, including the development of the testes, preserving spermatogonial stem cells' capacity for differentiation along with self-renewal, and controlling spermatocyte meiosis. All of them point to possible utility of lncRNAs to be biomarkers and treatment aims for female infertility. Herein, we summarize various lncRNAs that are involved in female infertility.

Downregulated lncRNA HOTAIR ameliorates polycystic ovaries syndrome via IGF-1 mediated PI3K/Akt pathway

OBJECTIVE

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common disorder that leads to infertility in reproductive-aged females. HOTAIR is highly expressed in various gynecological diseases and is associated with a poor prognosis. We aimed to explore the role of HOTAIR in PCOS.

METHODS

First, PCOS rats were induced using dehydroepiandrosterone and then treated with si-HOTAIR. Next, HOTAIR mRNA expression and serum hormone levels were detected. HE staining was applied to observe estrus cycle, ovarian morphology and count the number of follicles. Apoptosis in the ovary was detected by TUNEL. Thereafter, ovarian granulosa cells (GCs) were isolated from PCOS rats, transfected with si-HOTAIR and treated with LY294002 (Akt inhibitor) or IGF-1. CCK-8 and flow cytometry assays were used to evaluate cell viability and apoptosis. IGF-1, apoptosis- and PI3K/Akt pathway-associated protein expressions in ovary and GCs were also detected.

RESULTS

In in vivo experiments, si-HOTAIR decreased serum T, E₂ and LH levels but increased FSH level, restored estrus cycle, ovarian morphology and inhibited apoptosis of ovary in PCOS rats. Meanwhile, in vitro assays showed that si-HOTAIR upregulated the viability but inhibited the apoptosis of PCOS GCs. Furthermore, both in vivo and in vitro assays revealed that si-HOTAIR increased Bcl-2 expression but suppressed Bax, Bad, IGF-1 expressions and PI3K, AKT phosphorylation. However, the aforementioned effects of si-HOTAIR in vitro were further enhanced by LY294002 and partially reversed by IGF-1.

CONCLUSIONS

HOTAIR knockdown improved PCOS, and the mechanism may relate to IGF-1-mediated PI3K/Akt pathway, indicating HOTAIR may be a novel therapeutic target for PCOS.

Tempol modulates lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA ceRNA networks in ovaries of DHEA induced PCOS rats

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine and metabolic disorders in reproductive age women. Our previous results demonstrated that tempol was able to ameliorate PCOS phenotype in rats. However, the exact pathophysiological effect of tempol on PCOS remains largely unknown. To extend this research, deep RNA-sequencing was performed to investigate the long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) associated ceRNA mechanisms in the ovarian tissues of control rats, dehydropiandrosterone (DHEA) induced PCOS rats and tempol treated PCOS rats. Our results identified total 164, 79, and 914 significantly dysregulated lncRNAs, miRNAs, and mRNAs in three groups, respectively. The total of 7 lncRNAs, 8 mRNAs and 5 miRNAs were involved in lncRNA-associated ceRNA networks were constructed. Among them, mRNAs including C1qtnf1, Dipk2a, IL4r and lncRNAs including MSTRG.16751.2, MSTRG.8065.2 had high RNA connectivity in the ceRNA network, which also showed significant alterations in these three groups by using qPCR validation. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses revealed that the involvement of the identified ceRNA networks in regulating the development of PCOS from distinct origins, such as metabolic pathway, immune cell differentiation. The study presents the first systematic dissection of lncRNA-associated ceRNA profiles in tempol treated PCOS rats. The identified ceRNA networks could provide insights that help facilitate PCOS diagnosis and treatment.

Advances in the research of the mechanism of secondary resistance to imatinib in gastrointestinal stromal tumors

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most common mesenchymal tumors of the gastrointestinal tract. At present, surgery is the first-line treatment for primary resectable GISTs; however, the recurrence rate is high. Imatinib mesylate (IM) is an effective first-line drug used for the treatment of unresectable or metastatic recurrent GISTs. More than 80% of patients with GISTs show significantly improved 5-year survival after treatment; however, approximately 50% of patients develop drug resistance after 2 years of IM treatment. Therefore, an in-depth research is urgently needed to reveal the mechanisms of secondary resistance to IM in patients with GISTs and to develop new therapeutic targets and regimens to improve their long-term prognoses. In this review, research on the mechanisms of secondary resistance to IM conducted in the last 5 years is discussed and summarized from the aspects of abnormal energy metabolism, gene mutations, non-coding RNA, and key proteins. Studies have shown that different drug-resistance mechanism networks are closely linked and interconnected. However, the influence of these drug-resistance mechanisms has not been compared. The combined inhibition of drug-resistance mechanisms with IM therapy and the combined inhibition of multiple drug-resistance mechanisms are expected to become new therapeutic options in the treatment of GISTs. In addition, implementing individualized therapies based on the identification of resistance mechanisms will provide new adjuvant treatment options for patients with IM-resistant GISTs, thereby delaying the progression of GISTs. Previous studies provide theoretical support for solving the problems of drug-resistance mechanisms. However, most studies on drug-resistance mechanisms are still in the research stage. Further clinical studies are needed to confirm the safety and efficacy of the inhibition of drug-resistance mechanisms as a potential therapeutic target.

Long noncoding RNA NEAT1 decreases polycystic ovary syndrome progression via the modulation of the microRNA-324-3p and BRD3 axis

Long noncoding RNA nuclear-enriched abundant transcript 1 (NEAT1) is believed to be involved in many gynecological and obstetrics disorders. Nevertheless, the role of NEAT1 in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is scarcely investigated. Our study aimed to investigate the role of NEAT1, microRNA (miR)-324-3p, and bromodomain containing 3 (BRD3) in PCOS. First, 80 women with PCOS and 80 healthy (non-PCOS) women were included, and their serum hormone levels were tested. Next, the PCOS mouse model was established by dehydroepiandrosterone injection, and then NEAT1, miR-324-3p, and BRD3 expression levels were detected in the PCOS mice. Lentivirus carrying short hairpin-NEAT1 or miR-324-3p agomir was injected into the PCOS mice to determine the change in biochemical indices and pathology. Moreover, a rescue experiment was conducted, after which, the binding relationships among NEAT1, miR-324-3p, and BRD3 were analyzed. NEAT1 and BRD3 were expressed at a high level while miR-324-3p was expressed at a low level in women with PCOS and PCOS mice. Reduced levels of NEAT1 or elevated levels of miR-324-3p mitigated metabolic disorders and alleviated ovarian pathological changes in PCOS mice. Mechanistically, NEAT1 sponged miR-324-3p and miR-324-3p targeted BRD3. In the rescue experiment, elevated miR-324-3p or reduced BRD3 level reversed the effects of the enhanced NEAT1 on metabolic disorders and ovarian pathological changes in PCOS mice. NEAT1 exacerbates metabolic disorders and ovarian pathological changes in PCOS mice by downregulating miR-324-3p and upregulating BRD3. This study gives a novel direction in PCOS treatment.

Long non-coding RNA-X-inactive specific transcript inhibits cell viability, and induces apoptosis through the microRNA-30c-5p/Bcl2-like protein 11 signaling axis in human granulosa-like tumor cells

The role of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) is being actively explored in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Recent research has shown that long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) X–inactive Specific Transcript (XIST) is overexpressed in patients with PCOS and is associated with poor pregnancy outcomes. However, the precise function and mechanism of action of lncRNA XIST in PCOS are unknown. We aimed to determine whether lncRNA XIST contributes to PCOS by modulating ovarian granulosa cell physiology. We also investigated any potential molecular regulatory mechanisms. In this study, we discovered that the lncRNA XIST was significantly downregulated in human ovarian granulosa-like tumor (KGN) cells. Notably, overexpression of lncRNA XIST decreased miR-30c-5p expression in KGN cells, inhibited proliferation, and induced apoptosis in KGN cells. However, cotransfection with amiR-30c-5p mimic significantly reduced these effects. Additionally, we discovered that the miR-30c-5p mimic effectively inhibited Bcl2-like protein 11 (BCL2L11) expression, a critical apoptotic promoter, whereas silencing of miR-30c-5p increased BCL2L11 expression, inhibited KGN cell proliferation, and induced apoptosis. In contrast, cotransfection of BCL2L11 with siRNA significantly reversed these effects. In conclusion, this study established that lncRNA XIST plays a critical role in PCOS by modulating the miR-30c-5p/BCL2L11 signaling axis and regulating ovarian granulosa cell physiology.

Granulosa cell transcriptomic study reveals the differential regulation of lncRNAs and mRNAs related to follicle development in goat

Mammalian follicle development is a complex biological process regulated by several factors. More than 99% of the follicles in goat ovaries will be atresia and only a few will eventually mature and ovulate. To investigate the potential long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) that regulate the expression of genes associated with follicular dominance or atresia, RNA-seq was performed on dominant follicles (DFs) and subordinate follicles (SFs) of granulosa cells from goats at the first follicular wave. A total of 92 differentially expressed lncRNAs and 676 differentially expressed mRNAs were detected in both types of follicles. The qRT-PCR results were consistent with the transcriptome sequencing data. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis of the differentially expressed mRNAs revealed that LHR and LDLR are associated with follicle dominance and are involved in the ovarian steroidogenesis pathway. The co-located mRNAs CALM2 and PPP1CA were significantly enriched during oocyte meiosis and in the cAMP and oxytocin signaling pathways. The co-expressed mRNAs were significantly enriched in the estrogen signaling pathway and in ovarian steroidogenesis and progesterone-mediated oocyte maturation. A co-expression network of lncRNAs, target genes, and differentially expressed genes was constructed. Follicle development-related genes, such as LDLR, NOTCH1, and FGF12, were included. These findings expand the lncRNA catalog and provide a basis for further studies on the mechanism of regulating follicular development in goats.

LINC00173 regulates polycystic ovarian syndrome progression by promoting apoptosis and repressing proliferation in ovarian granulosa cells via the microRNA-124-3p (miR-124-3p)/jagged canonical Notch ligand 1 (JAG1) pathway

As an endocrine and metabolic disorder, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is common in females at childbearing age. Our work was intended to uncover the underlying role of LINC00173 and its potential regulatory mechanism in PCOS based on two cell lines (PCOS granulosa cells and KGN cells) and an in vivo model established from Sprague Dawley rats. It was revealed that LINC00173 and JAG1 expressions were upregulated, while miR-124-3p was poorly expressed in PCOS patients and PCOS rats. Functional assays showed that LINC00173 overexpression repressed proliferation and stimulated apoptosis in granulosa cells and KGN cells, while LINC00173 downregulation exhibited the opposite effects. Besides, it was verified that LINC00173 upregulated JAG1 expression in KGN cells via competitively binding to miR-124-3p. Similarly, miR-124-3p abundance was inversely related to LINC00173 and JAG1 level in PCOS. Subsequently, rescue assays elucidated that miR-124-3p upregulation or downregulation eliminated the effects on KGN cell proliferation and apoptosis mediated by LINC00173 overexpression or knockdown. In addition, it was found that the JAG1 level in KGN cells was adversely modulated by miR-124-3p and positively modulated by LINC00173. Moreover, it was further demonstrated that the reduced cell vitality and increased apoptosis of KGN cells induced by overexpressing LINC00173 could be relieved by JAG1 deletion. These findings suggested that LINC00173 could be a latent regulating factor for PCOS progression via modulating the miR-124-3p/JAG1 cascade.

Association of Polymorphisms within HOX Transcript Antisense RNA (HOTAIR) with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Laboratory Characteristics: A Preliminary Case-Control Study

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a complex heterogeneous disease resulting from the environment and genetic interactions. Lately, genetic association studies have shown that polymorphisms in long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are associated with T2DM susceptibility. This preliminary study is aimed at investigating if HOX transcript antisense RNA (HOTAIR) polymorphisms contribute to T2DM development. Five hundred clinically diagnosed T2DM cases and 500 healthy controls were recruited from the southeast Iranian population. Genomic DNA was isolated from nucleated blood cells and genotyped for MspI (C/T) (rs920778) and AluI (A/G) (rs4759314) polymorphisms using the PCR-RFLP technique. For genotyping rs12826786 C/T and rs1899663 G/T variants, ARMS-PCR method was applied. Our findings indicated that HOTAIR rs920778 C/T, rs12826786 C/T, and rs4759314 A/G polymorphisms have a significant positive association with T2DM, while a negative association was observed between rs1899663 G/T T2DM susceptibility. Significant associations were also observed between rs920778 C/T and HDL-C as well as s4759314 A/G and both FBS and LDL-C in T2DM patients. Haplotype analysis indicated that the CGCG, CTTG, TGTA, and TTTG haplotypes of rs920778/rs1899663/rs12826786/rs4759314 significantly enhanced T2DM risk by 1.47, 1.96, 2.81, and 4.80 folds, respectively. No strong linkage disequilibrium was found between the four HOTAIR SNPs. We firstly reported that HOTAIR rs1899663 G/T, rs12826786 C/T, rs4759314 A/G, and rs920778 C/T polymorphisms might influence T2DM susceptibility by modulating different signaling pathways and could be regarded as potential prognostic markers in T2DM patients.

microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs as biomarkers for polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is known as the most common metabolic/endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age. Its complicated causality assessment and diagnostic emphasized the role of non‐coding regulatory RNAs as molecular biomarkers in studying, diagnosing and even as therapeutics of PCOS. This review discusses a comparative summary of research into microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) that are molecularly or statistically related to PCOS. We categorize the literature in terms of centering on either miRNAs or lncRNAs and discuss the combinatory studies and promising ideas as well. Additionally, we compare the pros and cons of the prominent research methodologies used for each of the abovementioned research themes and discuss how errors can be stopped from propagation by selecting correct methodologies for future research. Finally, it can be concluded that research into miRNAs and lncRNAs has the potential for identifying functional networks of regulation with multiple mRNAs (and hence, functional proteins). This new understanding may eventually afford clinicians to control the molecular course of the pathogenesis better. With further research, RNA (with statistical significance and present in the blood) may be used as biomarkers for the disease, and more possibilities for RNA therapy agents can be identified.

High-Throughput Sequencing Profiles About lncRNAs and mRNAs of Ovarian Granulosa Cells in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders in women of reproductive age, which is characterized by ovulatory dysfunction, clinical and/or biochemical androgen excess, polycystic ovaries on ultrasound and genetic heterogeneity. It was well-accepted that many lncRNAs and mRNAs were associated with PCOS, however, remain unclear. Therefore, the purpose of our study was to examine different expression profiles of lncRNAs and mRNAs in ovarian granulosa cells (GCs) in PCOS and Controls, and identify the correlation between lncRNAs, mRNAs and clinical parameters. Sixty five PCOS patients and 65 Controls were enrolled in this study and adopted standard long agonist protocols or GnRH antagonist protocols. Then 6 GCs samples in each group were subjected to high-thoughput sequencing and the remaining samples were used for the further verification by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Gene Oncology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis were performed. We predicted the relationship between lncRNAs and mRNAs by Cytoscape software. According to the expression level of lncRNAs, mRNAs and the clinical parameters, we also explored their relationship and evaluate their predictive values for embryos quality and PCOS. We identified 1,049 differential expressed lncRNAs and 3,246 mRNAs (fold-change ≥2, p-value < 0.05). Seven lncRNAs (NONHSAT101926.2, NONHSAT136825.2, NONHSAT227177.1, NONHSAT010538.2, NONHSAT191377.1, NONHSAT230904.1, ENST00000607307) and 3 mRNAs (EREG, ENTPD6, YAP1) were validated consistent with sequence profile. Seven lncRNAs were related to hormone level and follicle counts, 3 mRNAs had connections with lipid metabolism. The area under curve (AUC) of 7 lncRNAs were valuable in distinguishing patients with PCOS from Controls. The AUC of NONHSAT230904.1 and NONHSAT227177.1 were 0.6807 and 0.6410, respectively, for distinguishing whether the rate of high-quality embryos exceeds 50%. Our study showed that the GCs lncRNAs and mRNAs were involved in the occurrence and development of PCOS, which contribute to clarify the pathogenesis mechanism of PCOS.

Is there a Relationship between Serum IGF-1 and Thyroid Nodule, Thyroid or Ovarian Volume in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome?

Context

Studies investigating the association between serum IGF-1, and thyroid nodule, ovarian or thyroid volume in polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) are limited.

Objective

We aimed to analyze the association between serum IGF-1 level, and ovarian or thyroid volume, or thyroid nodule in PCOS.

Design

The study was performed between June 2017 and August 2019 as prospective design.

Subjects and Methods

Adult females with new-onset PCOS were included. The patients having comorbid illness, or using medication were excluded. Basic tests, thyroid and ovarian sonography were performed. The patients were grouped according to thyroid nodule(absent/present) and ovarian volume (<10mL/≥10mL). We planned to find a positive association between IGF-1, and thyroid nodule, thyroid or ovarian volume in PCOS.

Results

Of total 118 patients, 11(9%) had thyroid nodule. The patients with thyroid nodule had a higher ovarian volume (p=0.006). No correlation was found between GH or IGF-1, and thyroid or ovarian volume. IGF-1 was not a predictor for thyroid nodule or higher ovarian volume. Thyroid nodule was a significant predictor for higher ovarian volume.

Conclusion

Our study is the first to analyze the association between IGF-1 and thyroid nodule in PCOS. We found that thyroid nodule was associated with thyroid and ovarian volume, but IGF-1 was not associated with thyroid nodule, thyroid or ovarian volume.

The lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA ceRNA network in mural granulosa cells of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: an analysis of Gene Expression Omnibus data

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine abnormalities in women of reproductive age. In this study, we set out to construct a molecular long non-coding RNA (lncRNA)-microRNA (miRNA)-messenger RNA (mRNA) network according to the competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) theory and obtain insights into the related biological characteristics and pathways.

Methods

We downloaded two gene expression profile datasets of mural granulosa cells (MGCs) of women with PCOS and healthy women without PCOS (GSE84376 and GSE106724) from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) DataSets. Using GEO2R, we identified the mRNAs and non-coding RNAs with differential expression. The DIANA-microT-CDS algorithm was applied to predict the genes targeted by the differentially expressed miRNAs. The lncRNA-miRNA interactions were predicted using DIANA-LncBase v2. Then, we constructed the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network. The Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) was employed to identify the functions and enriched pathways of the genes. Subsequently, STRING was used to construct the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. cytoHubba in Cytoscape was used to rank the hub genes, and finally, PPI modules were screened with Cytoscape MCODE.

Results

There were 462 mRNAs, 2,464 lncRNAs, and 55 miRNAs which showed differential expression between the MGCs of patients with PCOS and those of healthy controls. Based on the PPI analysis, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were significantly enriched in retinol metabolism, drug metabolism—cytochrome P450, malaria, the Hippo signaling pathway, and glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism. The ceRNA network contained 71 lncRNA nodes, 14 miRNA nodes, and 69 mRNA nodes, as well as 167 edges. We identified some novel genes and non-coding RNAs that might be involved in PCOS, including CD163, MRC1, VSIG4, CCL2, CCR2, SPP1, hsa-miR-3135b, hsa-miR-4649-3p, hsa-miR-1231, hsa-miR-3609, and hsa-miR-4433b-3p.

Conclusions

This study identified a novel lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network based on the ceRNA mechanism in PCOS. Some novel genes and non-coding RNAs that may be involved in the occurrence and development of PCOS were excavated, including CD163, MRC1, VSIG4, CCL2, CCR2, SPP1, hsa-miR-3135b, hsa-miR-4649-3p, hsa-miR-1231, hsa-miR-3609, and hsa-miR-4433b-3p. However, our findings need to be validated by in vivo and in vitro experiments.

Genetic variants of HOTAIR are associated with susceptibility to recurrent spontaneous abortion: A preliminary case-control study

AIM

To investigate the association between Hox transcript antisenses RNA (HOTAIR) polymorphisms, rs12826786 C/T, rs920778 T/C, rs4759314 A/G, and rs1899663 G/T, with recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) susceptibility in the Iranian women.

METHODS

We enrolled 161 patients diagnosed with RSA and 177 healthy women with at least one live birth without a history of abortion. Genotyping of HOTAIR polymorphisms was carried out using both restriction fragment length polymorphism-polymerase chain reaction and amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction methods. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were assessed to estimate the strength of association.

RESULTS

Different inheritance models of rs12826786 C/T, rs920778 T/C, and rs1899663 G/T polymorphisms significantly enhanced the risk of RSA (p < 0.05), whereas the rs4759314 A/G polymorphism was correlated with diminished risk of developing RSA under recessive AA versus GA + GG (OR 0.42 [95% CI = 0.19-0.91]), log-additive GG versus GA vs. GG (OR 0.67 [95% CI = 0.48-0.93]), and allelic A versus G (OR 0.65 [95% CI = 0.47-0.92]) models. Moreover, the TGTC, TTCT, TTTC, CGTC, CGTT, CTCC, CTCT, CTTC, and CTTT haplotypes of rs920778/rs1899663/rs12826786/ significantly increased the risk of RSA. The studied variants were not in strong linkage disequilibrium.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicated that variations in the HOTAIR gene might serve as beneficial biomarkers for determining susceptibility to RSA. To confirm these findings, replication studies with a larger population and different races are needed.

Oxidized high-density lipoprotein enhances endocrine disorders and ovarian damage in rats

Previous findings have highlighted the association between oxidized high‐density lipoprotein (ox‐HDL) and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) development; however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Under such context, the present study aimed to investigate the mechanism underlying the involvement of ox‐HDL in PCOS in relation to the p65/micro‐RNA‐34a (miR‐34a)/FOS axis. PCOS rat models were established with the injection of dehydroepiandrosterone (6 mg/100 g body weight). Both PCOS‐modelled rats and granulosa cells (GCs) were received treatment with ox‐HDL in order to identify its role in PCOS. Next, apoptosis and viability of GCs were detected with the application of TdT‐mediated dUTP Nick‐End Labeling and flow cytometry and Cell counting kit‐8, respectively. A series of assays were performed to determine the interaction among ox‐HDL, p65, miR‐34a, FOS and nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB). The results revealed high expression of ox‐HDL in PCOS, and enhanced endocrine disorders and ovarian damage in rats. ox‐HDL promoted apoptosis of GCs and decreased its viability. ox‐HDL activated NF‐κB pathway and induced p65 phosphorylation to promote miR‐34a expression. miR‐34a targeted and inhibited FOS expression. In conclusion, our findings suggested that ox‐HDL promoted the activation of p65 and transcription of miR‐34a, which stimulated apoptosis of GCs and inhibited expression of FOS, resulting in the overall acceleration of PCOS development.

Research progress in lncRNA and its action as ceRNA in ovarian function as well as the relevant diseases

Long chain non-encoding RNA (lncRNA) can affect gene expression through transcription, post transcriptional regulation and epigenetic modification, and it is involved in regulating ovarian physiological function. LncRNA, as a competitive endogenous RNA, can affect the expression of target gene mRNA by competitively binding microRNA (miRNA), which are called lncRNA/miRNA/mRNA regulatory network. It plays an important role in the regulation of ovarian physiological function and the occurrence and development of ovarian reproductive disorders, expecting to become a new target and diagnostic index for the treatment of reproductive disorders.

Downregulating lncRNA NEAT1 induces proliferation and represses apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells in polycystic ovary syndrome via microRNA-381/IGF1 axis

OBJECTIVE

Researchers have revealed the combined functions of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNA (miRNAs) in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This study aimed to understand the role of nuclear-enriched abundant transcript 1 (NEAT1) and miR-381 involving insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) in PCOS.

METHODS

PCOS rat model was established by dehydroepiandrosterone induction. NEAT1, miR-381 and IGF1 expression in ovarian granulosa cells of PCOS patients and ovarian tissues of PCOS rats were tested. Bioinformatics website and dual luciferase reporter gene assay were utilized to verify the relationship between NEAT1 and miR-381 and that between miR-381 and IGF1. Levels of sex hormone, pathological changes and ovarian granulosa cell apoptosis in ovarian tissues of PCOS rats were detected. Ovarian granulosa cell proliferation and apoptosis were analyzed in vitro.

RESULTS

NEAT1 and IGF1 expression increased while miR-381 expression decreased in the ovarian granulosa cells of patients with PCOS and the ovarian tissues of PCOS rats. In in vivo experiments, interference with NEAT1 improved the levels of sex hormones, alleviated pathological changes and suppressed ovarian granulosa cell apoptosis in the ovarian tissues of PCOS rats. In in vitro cell experiments, interference with NEAT1 suppressed apoptosis and enhanced cell proliferation of ovarian granulosa cells. NEAT1 interference-mediated effect would be reversed by up-regulating miR-381. NEAT1 acted as a ceRNA to adsorb miR-381 to target IGF1. Overexpression of IGF1 reversed the inhibitory effect of miR-381 on ovarian granulosa cell apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

Interference with NEAT1 increases miR-381 and reduces IGF1 levels, effectively improving the levels of sex hormones and reducing the pathological damage of ovarian tissue in rats with PCOS.

Role of Long Non-Coding RNA Polymorphisms in Cancer Chemotherapeutic Response

Genetic polymorphisms are defined as the presence of two or more different alleles in the same locus, with a frequency higher than 1% in the population. Since the discovery of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), which refer to a non-coding RNA with a length of more than 200 nucleotides, their biological roles have been increasingly revealed in recent years. They regulate many cellular processes, from pluripotency to cancer. Interestingly, abnormal expression or dysfunction of lncRNAs is closely related to the occurrence of human diseases, including cancer and degenerative neurological diseases. Particularly, their polymorphisms have been found to be associated with altered drug response and/or drug toxicity in cancer treatment. However, molecular mechanisms are not yet fully elucidated, which are expected to be discovered by detailed studies of RNA–protein, RNA–DNA, and RNA–lipid interactions. In conclusion, lncRNAs polymorphisms may become biomarkers for predicting the response to chemotherapy in cancer patients. Here we review and discuss how gene polymorphisms of lncRNAs affect cancer chemotherapeutic response. This knowledge may pave the way to personalized oncology treatments.

Long noncoding RNAs as a piece of polycystic ovary syndrome puzzle

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder and affects 5-10% of reproductive-age women. Chronic anovulation, polycystic ovaries, and hyperandrogenism are the important features of this syndrome. Furthermore, hyperinsulinemia and central obesity are frequent in PCOS women. In recent years, noncoding RNAs detection provided new ideas to explain the etiology of female reproductive disorders. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) as a subset of noncoding RNAs are associated with the pathogenesis of manifold reproductive-related disorders. Various investigations emphasized the potential involvement of lncRNAs in PCOS development. Therefore, in this paper, we will summarize the function of numerous lncRNAs in the apoptosis and proliferation of granulosa cells (GCs), insulin resistance (IR), and steroidogenesis in PCOS.

LncRNA-HOTAIR activates autophagy and promotes the imatinib resistance of gastrointestinal stromal tumor cells through a mechanism involving the miR-130a/ATG2B pathway

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are common neoplasms of the gastrointestinal tract that can be treated successfully using C-kit target therapy and surgery; however, imatinib chemoresistance is a major barrier to success in therapy. The present study aimed to discover alternative pathways in imatinib-resistant GISTs. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are newly discovered regulators of chemoresistance. Previously, we showed that the lncRNA HOTAIR was upregulated in recurrent GISTs. In this study, we analyzed differentially expressed lncRNAs after imatinib treatment and found that HOTAIR displayed the largest increase. The distribution of HOTAIR in GISTs was shifted from nucleus to cytoplasm after imatinib treatments. The expression of HOTAIR was validated as related to drug sensitivity through Cell Counting Kit-8 assays. Moreover, HOTAIR was associated strongly with cell autophagy and regulated drug sensitivity via autophagy. Mechanistically, HOTAIR correlated negatively with miRNA-130a in GISTs. The downregulation of miRNA-130a reversed HOTAIR-small interfering RNA-induced suppression of autophagy and imatinib sensitivity. We identified autophagy-related protein 2 homolog B (ATG2B) as a downstream target of miR-130a and HOTAIR. ATG2B downregulation reversed the effect of pEX-3-HOTAIR/miR-130a inhibitor on imatinib sensitivity. Finally, HOTAIR was shown to influence the autophagy and imatinib sensitivity of GIST cells in mouse tumor models. Our results suggested that HOTAIR targets the ATG2B inhibitor miR-130a to upregulate the level of cell autophagy so that promotes the imatinib resistance in GISTs.

microRNA-21-5p from M2 macrophage-derived extracellular vesicles promotes the differentiation and activity of pancreatic cancer stem cells by mediating KLF3

Aim

Given the fact that tumor-associated macrophage-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) are attributable to tumor aggressiveness, this research intends to decode the mechanism of M2 macrophage-derived EVs in the differentiation and activities of pancreatic cancer (PaCa) stem cells via delivering microRNA (miR)-21-5p.

Methods

Polarized M2 macrophages were induced, from which EVs were collected and identified. miR-21-5p expression in M2 macrophage-derived EVs was tested. After cell sorting, CD24⁺CD44⁺EpCAM⁺ stem cells were co-cultured with M2 macrophages, in which miR-21-5p was upregulated or downregulated. The effects of M2 macrophage-derived EVs and miR-21-5p on Nanog/octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (Oct4) expression, sphere formation, colony formation, invasion and migration capacities, apoptosis, and in vivo tumorigenic ability were examined. Krüppel-like factor 3 (KLF3) expression and its interaction with miR-21-5p were determined.

Results

M2 macrophage-derived EVs promoted PaCa stem cell differentiation and activities. miR-21a-5p was upregulated in M2 macrophage-derived EVs. miR-21a-5p downregulation in M2 macrophage-derived EVs inhibited Nanog/Oct4 expression and impaired sphere-forming, colony-forming, invasion, migration, and anti-apoptosis abilities of PaCa stem cells in vitro and tumorigenic ability in vivo. miR-21-5p targeted KLF3 to mediate the differentiation and activities of PaCa stem cells, and KLF3 was downregulated in PaCa stem cells.

Conclusion

This work explains that M2 macrophage-derived exosomal miR-21a-5p stimulates differentiation and activity of PaCa stem cells via targeting KLF3, paving a novel way for attenuating PaCa stemness.

Graphical abstract

The Interplay Between Non-coding RNAs and Insulin-Like Growth Factor Signaling in the Pathogenesis of Neoplasia

The insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) are polypeptides with similar sequences with insulin. These factors regulate cell growth, development, maturation, and aging via different processes including the interplay with MAPK, Akt, and PI3K. IGF signaling participates in the pathogenesis of neoplasia, insulin resistance, diabetes mellitus, polycystic ovarian syndrome, cerebral ischemic injury, fatty liver disease, and several other conditions. Recent investigations have demonstrated the interplay between non-coding RNAs and IGF signaling. This interplay has fundamental roles in the development of the mentioned disorders. We designed the current study to search the available data about the role of IGF-associated non-coding RNAs in the evolution of neoplasia and other conditions. As novel therapeutic strategies have been designed for modification of IGF signaling, identification of the impact of non-coding RNAs in this pathway is necessary for the prediction of response to these modalities.

lncRNA FDNCR promotes apoptosis of granulosa cells by targeting the miR-543-3p/DCN/TGF-β signaling pathway in Hu sheep

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) regulate the development of follicles and reproductive diseases, but the mechanisms by which lncRNAs regulate ovarian functions and fertility remain elusive. We profiled the expression of lncRNAs in ovarian tissues of Hu sheep with different prolificacy and identified 21,327 lncRNAs. Many of the lncRNAs were differentially expressed in different groups. We further characterized an lncRNA that was predominantly expressed in the ovaries of the low prolificacy Fec^B+ (LPB+) group and mainly present in granulosa cells (GCs), and the expression of this lncRNA decreased during follicular development, which we named follicular development-associated lncRNA (FDNCR). Next, we found that FDNCR directly binds miR-543-3p, and decorin (DCN) was identified as a target of miR-543-3p. FDNCR overexpression promoted GC apoptosis through increased expression of DCN, which could be attenuated by miR-543-3p. Furthermore, miR-543-3p increased and FDNCR reduced the expression of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) pathway-related genes, including TGF-β1 and inhibin beta A (INHBA), which were upregulated upon DCN silencing. Our results demonstrated that FDNCR sponges miR-543-3p in GCs and prevents miR-543-3p from binding to the DCN 3′ UTR, resulting in DCN transactivation and TGF-β pathway inhibition and promotion of GC apoptosis in Hu sheep. These findings provide insights into the mechanisms underlying prolificacy in sheep.

miR-130a-3p regulates steroid hormone synthesis in goat ovarian granulosa cells by targeting the PMEPA1 gene

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key epigenomic regulators of proliferation, differentiation, and secretion in cells involved in follicular development. We here studied the functional role of one such molecule, miR-130a-3p, in goat ovarian granulosa cells (GCs). High expression of this miRNA was evident in goat GCs by fluorescence in situ hybridization and suppressed estradiol and progesterone secretion from these cells, as determined by ELISA. miR-130a-3p was predicted to have a binding site for the 3' UTR of the prostate transmembrane protein androgen induced 1 gene (PMEPA1), and this was verified by a dual-luciferase reporter assay. PMEPA1 mRNA and protein expression were both found to be regulated by miR-130a-3p in GCs. Moreover, the overexpression or knockdown of PMEPA1 enhanced or suppressed estradiol and progesterone secretion from these cells, respectively. Furthermore, the secretion of estradiol and progesterone did not change significantly after the offsetting of PMEPA1 overexpression in GCs by miR-130a-3p. In summary, our present data indicate that miR-130a-3p inhibits the secretion of estradiol and progesterone in GCs by targeting PMEPA1. Our study thus provides seminal data and important new insights into the regulation of reproductive mechanisms in the nanny goat and other female mammals.

lncRNA MALAT1 Regulates Mouse Granulosa Cell Apoptosis and 17β-Estradiol Synthesis via Regulating miR-205/CREB1 Axis

Metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1), a known long noncoding RNA, was reported to play a crucial role in follicular growth and ovarian disease. However, the physiological function of MALAT1 in mouse granulosa cells (mGCs) remains largely unclear. The aims of this study were to determine the biological function and molecular mechanism of MALAT1 in mGCs. We knocked down MALAT1 in mGCs by using siRNA against MALAT1. We found that knockdown of MALAT1 promoted apoptosis and caspase-3/9 activities in mGCs. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay demonstrated that knockdown of MALAT1 significantly decreased the production of estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) in mGCs. Mechanistically, MALAT1 serves as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to sponge microRNA-205 (miR-205), thereby facilitating its downstream target of cyclic AMP response element- (CRE-) binding protein 1 (CREB1). Furthermore, CREB1 overexpression or miR-205 downregulation partially recovered the effect of MALAT1 depletion in mGCs. In summary, these findings suggested that MALAT1 regulated apoptosis and estradiol synthesis of mGCs through the miR-205/CREB1 axis.

Long non-coding RNAs: novel players in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a class of transcripts (>200 nucleotides) lacking protein-coding capacity. Based on the complex three-dimensional structure, lncRNAs are involved in many biological processes and can regulate the expression of target genes at chromatin modification, transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. LncRNAs have been studied in multiple diseases but little is known about their role(s) in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the most common endocrinological disorder in reproductive-aged women around the world. In this review, we characterized and explored the potential mechanisms of lncRNAs in the pathogenesis of PCOS. We found that lncRNAs play a molecular role in PCOS mainly by functioning as the competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) and are significantly correlated with some clinical phenotypes. We summarized in detail regarding aberrant lncRNAs in different specimens of women with PCOS [i.e., granulosa cells (GCs), cumulus cells (CCs), follicular fluid (FF), peripheral blood] and various PCOS rodent models [i.e., dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and letrozole induced models]. In clinical practice, detection of lncRNAs in serum might enable early diagnosis. Furthermore, new lncRNA-based classifications might be emerging as potent predictors of a particular phenotype in PCOS. Overall, we proposed new insights for the application of precision medicine approaches to the management of PCOS.

Identification of mRNAs and lncRNAs Involved in the Regulation of Follicle Development in Goat

Follicular development and maturation has a significant impact on goat reproductive performance, and it is therefore important to understand the molecular basis of this process. The importance of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in mammalian reproduction has been established, but little is known about the roles of lncRNAs in different follicular stages, especially in goats. In this study, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) of large follicles (>10 mm) and small follicles (<3 mm) of Chuanzhong black goats was performed to investigate the regulatory mechanisms of lncRNAs and mRNAs in follicular development and maturation. A total of 8 differentially expressed lncRNAs (DElncRNAs) and 1,799 DEmRNAs were identified, and the majority of these were upregulated in small follicles. MRO, TC2N, CDO1, and NTRK1 were potentially associated with follicular maturation. KEGG pathway analysis showed that the DEmRNAs involved in ovarian steroidogenesis (BMP6, CYP11A1, CYP19A1, 3BHSD, STAR, LHCGR, and CYP51A1) and cAMP signaling play roles in regulating follicular maturation and developmental inhibition respectively. Five target pairs of DElncRNA-DEmRNA, namely, ENSCHIT00000001255-OTX2, ENSCHIT00000006005-PEG3, ENSCHIT00000009455-PIWIL3, ENSCHIT00000007977-POMP, and ENSCHIT00000000834-ACTR3 in co-expression analysis provide a clue in follicular development and maturation of lncRNA-mRNA interaction. Our findings provide a valuable resource for lncRNA studies, and could potentially provide a deeper understanding of the genetic basis and molecular mechanisms of goat follicular development and maturation.

Long non-coding RNA TUG1 and its molecular mechanisms in polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) causes anovulatory infertility in women of reproductive age, but etiopathogenesis of PCOS remains undetermined. Taurine up-regulated 1 (TUG1), an evolutionarily conserved long non-coding RNA, performs various biological functions; however, the role of TUG1 in PCOS remains unclear. Herein, TUG1 expression was assayed in granulosa cells (GCs) of 100 patients with PCOS and 100 control participants. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was conducted to determine the diagnostic value of TUG1 in PCOS. TUG1 expression was also silenced in KGN cells to explore the role of TUG1 in cellular proliferation, apoptosis, cell-cycle progression, autophagy, and steroidogenesis. We found that TUG1 levels were dramatically increased in the PCOS group compared with those of the control group; this increased expression was related to a rising antral follicle count (R = 0.209, P < 0.001 versus control). The ROC curve indicated a significant separation between PCOS group and the control group (AUC: 0.702; 95% CI: 0.630-0.773; P < 0.001). TUG1 showed a predominantly nuclear localization in human GCs. TUG1 knockdown reduced cellular proliferation, and promoted MAPKs pathway-dependent apoptosis and P21-dependent autophagy, but may not affect cell-cycle progression. TUG1 knockdown increased aromatase expression and oestradiol biosynthesis. Our results indicate that increased TUG1 expression in PCOS GCs may contribute to excessive follicular activation and growth, and may disrupt the selection of dominant follicle. Our study shows that TUG1 can be used as a diagnostic biomarker for PCOS.

Identification of Potential Biomarkers of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome via Integrated Bioinformatics Analysis

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a life-long reproductive, endocrine, and metabolic disorder that affects up to 17% of women of reproductive age. However, the effect of granulosa cells (GCs) transcriptome changes on oocyte capacity and follicular development in patients with PCOS has not been elucidated. This study aims to analyze transcriptome changes in GCs of PCOS from different perspectives and explore potential biomarkers for the diagnosis and treatment of PCOS. The gene expression profiles of GSE34526 and GSE107746 were obtained from the GEO database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and key signaling pathways were identified. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) revealed that Toll-like receptors, NOD-like receptors, and NOTCH signaling pathways were obviously enriched in GCs of PCOS. We further analyzed DEGs from three aspects: transcription factors (TFs), secreted proteins, and follicular development. Compared with normal GCs, the DEGs encoding TFs and secretory proteins in GCs of PCOS remarkably changed. Besides, HAS2 and CBLN1, which are highly expressed in preovulatory follicular GCs and may trigger ovulation, were significantly decreased in GCs of PCOS. This study found candidate genes and signaling pathways in PCOS, providing new insights and foundations for the etiology of PCOS. Besides, HSA2 and CBLN1 may be potential therapeutic biomarkers for ovulation disorders in PCOS.

LncRNA TUG1 promotes the progression of colorectal cancer via the miR-138-5p/ZEB2 axis

To explore the role of long-chain non-coding RNA (lncRNA) taurine up-regulated gene 1 (TUG1) in the development of colorectal cancer (CRC) via the miR-138-5p/zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox 2 (ZEB2) axis. Eighty-four CRC tissue specimens and 84 corresponding paracancerous tissue specimens were sampled from 84 patients with CRC admitted to the First Hospital of Jilin University from January 2018 to September 2019. The TUG1 expression in the specimens was determined, and its value in diagnosis and prognosis of CRC was analyzed. Additionally, constructed stable and transient overexpresison vectors and inhibition vectors were transfected into CRC cells. The MTT, transwell, and flow cytometry were adopted for analysis on the proliferation, invasion, and apoptosis of transfected cells, respectively, and a dual luciferase reporter (DLR) assay was carried out for correlation determination between TUG1 and miR-138-5p and between miR-138-5p and ZEB2. TUG1 was up-regulated in CRC, and serum TUG1 could be adopted as a diagnostic marker of CRC, with area-under-the-curve (AUC) larger than 0.8. In addition, siRNA-TUG1, shRNA-TUG1, miR-138-5p-mimics, and miR-138-5p-inhibitor were transfected into cells, and it turned out that overexpressing miR-138-5p and inhibiting ZEB2 exerted the same effects. The DLR assay revealed that TUG1 was able to targetedly regulate miR-138-5p, and miR-138-5p could targetedly regulate ZEB2, and in vitro experiments revealed that TUG1 could affect the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of CRC via the miR-138-5p/ZEB2 axis. TUG1 could promote the development of CRC via the miR-138-5p/ZEB2 axis.

Upregulation of microRNA-204 improves insulin resistance of polycystic ovarian syndrome via inhibition of HMGB1 and the inactivation of the TLR4/NF-κB pathway

There is growing evidence of the position of microRNAs (miRs) in polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), thus our objective was to discuss the impact of miR-204 on insulin resistance (IR) in PCOS by targeting highmobility group box protein 1(HMGB1)-mediated toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)/nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathway.PCOS-IR patients and PCOS non-insulin resistance (PCOS-NIR) patients were included. The levels of serum sex hormones and related insulin were measured, the expression of miR-204, HMGB1, TLR4 and NF-κB p65 was detected, the diagnostic efficacy of miR-204 in PCOS-IR was analyzed, and the correlation between the expression of miR-204 in PCOS-IR and fasting blood glucose (FPG), fasting insulin (FINS), homeostasis model of assessment for insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) was analyzed. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments were performed to elucidate the capabilities of miR-204 and HMGB1 in proliferation and apoptosis of PCOS-IR granulosa cells.MiR-204 was lowly expressed as well as HMGB1, TLR4 and NF-κB p65 were highly expressed in PCOS-IR patients. Follicule-stimulating hormone was downregulated, while luteinizing hormone, estrogen, progesterone, FPG, FINS and HOMA-IR were elevated in PCOS-IR. Upregulation of miR-204 and downregulation of HMGB1 could repress TLR4/NF-κB pathway activation, degraded insulin release and testosterone (T) leveland ascended ovarian coefficient, boosted cell proliferation and restrained apoptosis of granulosa cells. Overexpression of HMGB1 reverses the effect of upregulation of miR-204 on IR of PCOS.Our study presents that high expression of miR-204 or inhibition of HMGB1 can improve IR of PCOS via the inactivation of TLR4/NF-κB pathway.

lncRNA PVT1/MicroRNA-17-5p/PTEN Axis Regulates Secretion of E2 and P4, Proliferation, and Apoptosis of Ovarian Granulosa Cells in PCOS

Recently, the roles of microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) were identified in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). In the present study, we investigated the role of the lncRNA PVT1/miR-17-5p/PTEN axis in PCOS ovarian granulosa cells. Expression of PVT1, miR-17-5p and PTEN in PCOS ovarian granulosa cells and follicular fluid was detected, and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and the levels of fasting plasma glucose (FPG), fasting insulin (FINS), and sex hormones were assessed. Then, the proliferation, apoptosis, and colony formation ability of ovarian granulosa cells were evaluated. The binding relationship between PVT1 and miR-17-5p as well as the target relationship between miR-17-5p and PTEN were determined by bioinformatics analysis, luciferase activity assay, RNA-induced silencing complex assay, and RNA pull-down assay. The levels of sex hormone-binding globulin and follicle-stimulating hormone were abated and the levels of luteinizing hormone, testosterone, FINS, FPG, and HOMA-IR were increased in PCOS serum. PVT1 and PTEN were overexpressed and miR-17-5p was reduced in PCOS ovarian granulosa cells and follicular fluid. Overexpressed miR-17-5p and inhibited PVT1 could decelerate apoptosis while accelerating colony formation ability and proliferation of ovarian granulosa cells in PCOS. Moreover, overexpression of PVT1 and reduced miR-17-5p could reverse these results. There existed target relation among PVT1, miR-17-5p, and PTEN, and PVT1 could inhibit miR-17-5p, thereby elevating PTEN. Our study suggests that inhibited PVT1 and overexpressed miR-17-5p result in downregulation of PTEN and promotion of cell proliferation, as well as inhibition of apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells in PCOS.

Down-regulated lncRNA HOTAIR alleviates polycystic ovaries syndrome in rats by reducing expression of insulin-like growth factor 1 via microRNA-130a

It has been found that long noncoding RNA HOTAIR, microRNA‐130a (miR‐130a) and insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF1) expression are associated with ovarian cancer, thus, we hypothesised that the HOTAIR/miR‐130a/IGF1 axis might associate with endocrine disorders and biological behaviours of ovarian granulosa cells in rat models of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS rat models were established by injection of dehydro‐isoandrosterone, followed by treatment of si‐HOTAIR, oe‐HOTAIR, miR‐130a mimics or miR‐130a inhibitors. Serum hormonal levels were determined to evaluate endocrine conditions. The effect of HOTAIR and miR‐130a on activities of isolated ovarian granulosa cells was assessed, as well as the involvement of IGF1.In the ovarian tissues and granulosa cells of PCOS rat models, highly expressed HOTAIR and IGF1 and poorly expressed miR‐130a were identified. In response to oe‐HOTAIR, serum levels of E₂, T and LH were increased and serum levels of FSH were reduced; the proliferation of granulosa cells was reduced and apoptosis was promoted; notably, expression of miR‐130a was reduced while expression of IGF1 was increased. The treatment of si‐HOTAIR reversed the situation. Furthermore, the binding of HOTAIR to miR‐130a and targeting relationship of miR‐130a and IGF1 were confirmed. LncRNA HOTAIR up‐regulates the expression of IGF1 and aggravates the endocrine disorders and granulosa cell apoptosis through competitive binding to miR‐130a in rat models of PCOS. Based on our finding, we predict that competitive binding of HOTAIR to miR‐130a may act as a novel target for the molecular treatment of PCOS.