miR-873-5p inhibits the progression of colon cancer via repression of tumor suppressor candidate 3/AKT signaling

Towards understanding sex differences in autism spectrum disorders

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by social deficits, repetitive behaviours and lack of empathy. Its significant genetic heritability and potential comorbidities often lead to diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. This review addresses the biological basis of ASD, focusing on the sex differences in gene expression and hormonal influences. ASD is more commonly diagnosed in males at a ratio of 4:1, indicating a potential oversight in female-specific ASD research and a risk of underdiagnosis in females. We consider how ASD manifests differently across sexes by exploring differential gene expression in female and male brains and consider how variations in steroid hormones influence ASD characteristics. Synaptic function, including excitation/inhibition ratio imbalance, is influenced by gene mutations and this is explored as a key factor in the cognitive and behavioural manifestations of ASD. We also discuss the role of micro RNAs (miRNAs) and highlight a novel mutation in miRNA-873, which affects a suite of key synaptic genes, neurexin, neuroligin, SHANK and post-synaptic density proteins, implicated in the pathology of ASD. Our review suggests that genetic predisposition, sex differences in brain gene expression, and hormonal factors significantly contribute to the presentation, identification and severity of ASD, necessitating sex-specific considerations in diagnosis and treatments. These findings advocate for personalized interventions to improve the outcomes for individuals with ASD.

Astragaloside IV regulates circ_0001615 and miR-873-5p/LASP1 axis to suppress colorectal cancer cell progression

Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) has exhibited pivotal anti-cancer efficacy in multiple types of cancer, including colorectal cancer (CRC). Meanwhile, circular RNA (circRNA) circ_0001615 has been reported to be involved in the malignant development of CRC. Herein, this study is expected to figure out the interaction between circ_0001615 and AS-IV on CRC progression. The 50% inhibition concentration (IC50), proliferation, apoptosis, and migration were detected by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU), flow cytometry, and wound healing assays. The expression of related proteins was examined by western blot. Circ_0001615, microRNA-873-5p (miR-873-5p), and LIM and SH3 protein 1 (LASP1) levels were detected by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The binding between miR-873-5p and circ_0001615, or LASP1, was predicted by Starbase, followed by verification by dual-luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays. The biological role of circ_0001615 and AS-IV on CRC tumor growth was detected by the xenograft tumor model in vivo. According to the IC50 of AS-IV in CRC cells, the 100 ng/mL AS-IV treatment for 24 h was chosen for the following research: Our data confirmed that AS-IV is a beneficial anti-cancer agent in CRC cells. Furthermore, circ_0001615 and LASP1 expression were increased, and miR-873-5p was decreased in CRC patients and cell lines, whereas their expression exhibited an opposite trend in AS-IV-treated cells. Functionally, applying AS-IV might act as a beneficial anti-cancer effect by downregulating circ_0001615 in CRC cells in vitro. Mechanically, circ_0001615 serves as a sponge for miR-873-5p to affect LASP1 expression. In addition, AS-IV inhibited CRC cell growth in vivo by modulating circ_0001615. Overall, AS-IV could mitigate CRC development, at least in part, through the circ_0001615/miR-873-5p/LASP1 axis. These findings support a theoretical basis for an in-depth study of the function of AS-IV and the clinical treatment of CRC.

Circular RNAs in neuroblastoma: Pathogenesis, potential biomarker, and therapeutic target

Neuroblastoma (NB) is a common cancer in childhood responsible for 15 % of fatalities by pediatric cancers. Epigenetic factors play an important role in the pathogenesis of NB. Recently, it has been demonstrated that circular RNAs (circRNAs, ciRNAs), a newly identified class of non-coding RNAs, are also dysregulated in NB. CircRNAs mediate their functions by regulating gene expression mainly through microRNA (miRNA) sponging. The dysregulation (abnormal upregulation or downregulation) of circRNAs is involved in tumorigenesis of a variety of tumors including NB. It seems that the expression of some circRNAs is correlated with NB prognosis and clinical features. CircRNAs might be favorable as a diagnostic/prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target. However, due to the lack of studies, it is difficult to make a conclusion regarding the clinical benefits of circRNAs. In this review, we discussed the circRNAs that experimentally have been proved to be dysregulated in NB tissues and cancer cells.

Circular RNA circTTBK2 facilitates non-small-cell lung cancer malignancy through the miR-873-5p/TEAD1/DERL1 axis

Aim: The underlying mechanisms by which circular RNAs (circRNAs) regulate non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) progression remain elusive. This study investigated the role of circRNA circTTBK2 in NSCLC tumorigenesis. Materials & methods: Quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction analysis of circTTBK2 in NSCLC tissues and cell lines was performed. Cell proliferation, migration, invasion and tumorigenesis were confirmed in vitro and in vivo using CCK-8, EdU incorporation, Transwell assays and xenograft technique. The circTTBK2/miR-873-5p/TEAD1/DERL1 axis was verified by RNA immunoprecipitation, chromatin immunoprecipitation and luciferase reporter assays. Results: Overexpressed circTTBK2 in NSCLC tissues indicates poor prognosis of NSCLC patients. circTTBK2 harbors miR-873-5p, and miR-873-5p directly targets TEAD1. TEAD1 transcriptionally activates DERL1. Conclusion: This study revealed a novel machinery of circTTBK2/miR-873-5p/TEAD1/DERL1 for NSCLC tumorigenesis.

MicroRNA-873-5p suppresses cell malignant behaviors of thyroid cancer via targeting CXCL5 and regulating P53 pathway

We aimed to examine the roles of microRNA-873-5p and CXCL5 in thyroid cancer (TC) cells. qRT-PCR was adopted to measure the expression levels of CXCL5 mRNA and microRNA-873-5p in TC cells, and western blot was adopted to evaluate the CXCL5 protein expression level. Bioinformatics analysis was done to predict the upstream gene of CXCL5. Dual-luciferase assay was applied to validate the binding relationship of CXCL5 and the upstream regulatory gene. Cell experiments were done to detect the effects of microRNA-873-5p targeting CXCL5 on malignant progression of cancer cells. Western blot was adopted to demonstrate the phosphorylation level of P53 pathway related-proteins. CXCL5 was upregulated in TC cells and tissues. The results of in vitro assays displayed that CXCL5 downregulation dramatically suppressed the malignant behaviors of TC cells. MicroRNA-873-5p suppressed CXCL5 expression, but the suppressive effect of microRNA-873-5p on TC cells was abolished through CXCL5 overexpression. Additionally, microRNA-873-5p could mediate p53 pathway and thereby inhibit the malignant behaviors of TC cells through targeting CXCL5. In summary, we proved that microRNA-873-5p repressed the malignant behaviors of TC cells through targeting CXCL5 and P53 pathway, indicating that microRNA-873-5p can be a biomarker for TC.

Hsa_circ_0058129 regulates papillary thyroid cancer development via miR‐873‐5p/follistatin‐like 1 axis

Background

Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is an endocrine malignancy with a high incidence. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) participate in regulating PTC. Here, we analyzed the role of hsa_circ_0058129 (circ_0058129) in PTC.

Methods

The expression of circ_0058129, fibronectin 1 (FN1) mRNA, microRNA‐873‐5p (miR‐873‐5p), and follistatin‐like 1 (FSTL1) was detected by qRT‐PCR and western blot. Cell proliferation was analyzed by CCK‐8, EdU, and flow cytometry analysis assays. Cell migration and invasion were evaluated by Transwell assay. The targeting relationship of miR‐873‐5p and circ_0058129 or FSTL1 was identified through dual‐luciferase reporter assay, RIP assay, and RNA pull‐down assay. Xenograft mouse model assay was implemented to determine the effect of circ_0058129 on tumor formation in vivo.

Results

The circ_0058129 and FSTL1 abundances were increased, while the miR‐873‐5p content was decreased in PTC tissues and cells compared with control groups. Circ_0058129 shortage inhibited PTC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Moreover, miR‐873‐5p repressed PTC cell malignancy by binding to FSTL1. Circ_0058129 targeted miR‐873‐5p to regulate FSTL1.

Conclusion

Circ_0058129 expedited PTC progression through the miR‐873‐5p/FSTL1 pathway.

Relationships between Indicators of Lower Extremity Artery Disease and miRNA Expression in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells

Lower extremity artery disease (LEAD) is an underdiagnosed and globally underestimated vascular disease caused by the progressive and chronic formation of atherosclerotic plaques in the arteries of the lower limbs. Much evidence indicates that the abnormal course of pathophysiological processes underlying LEAD development is associated with altered miRNA modulatory function. In the presented study, relationships between miRNA expression and clinical indicators of this disease (ABI, claudication distance, length of arterial occlusion, Rutherford category, and plaque localization) were identified. MiRNA expression profiles were obtained using next-generation sequencing in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of 40 LEAD patients. Correlation analysis performed using the Spearman rank correlation test revealed miRNAs related to ABI, claudication distance, and length of arterial occlusion. In the DESeq2 analysis, five miRNAs were found to be dysregulated in patients with Rutherford category 3 compared to patients with Rutherford category 2. No miRNAs were found to be differentially expressed between patients with different plaque localizations. Functional analysis performed using the miRNet 2.0 website tool determined associations of selected miRNAs with processes underlying vascular pathology, such as vascular smooth muscle cell differentiation, endothelial cell apoptosis, response to hypoxia, inflammation, lipid metabolism, and circadian rhythm. The most enriched functional terms for genes targeted by associated miRNAs were linked to regulation of the cell cycle, regulation of the transcription process, and nuclear cellular compartment. In conclusion, dysregulations of miRNA expression in PBMCs of patients with LEAD are indicative of the disease and could potentially be used in the prediction of LEAD progression.

Circular RNA hsa_circ_0000277 promotes tumor progression and DDP resistance in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

Background

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are well-known regulators of cancer progression and chemoresistance in various types of cancers. This study was performed to investigate the function of hsa_circ_0000277 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC).

Methods

RNA levels were analyzed via the reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay was applied to determine cell proliferation and half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of cisplatin (DDP). Colony formation ability was evaluated by colony formation assay. Cell cycle and apoptosis were measured using flow cytometry. RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), pull-down assay and dual-luciferase reporter assays were performed for target interaction analysis. The protein levels were determined through western blot. Xenograft models were established for researching hsa_circ_0000277 function in vivo.

Results

Hsa_circ_0000277 expression was increased in ESCC cells and tissues, and it had important clinical significance. Downregulation of hsa_circ_0000277 repressed ESCC cell proliferation, colony formation, cell cycle, and DDP resistance. Hsa_circ_0000277 acted as a microRNA-873-5p (miR-873-5p) sponge and Sry-related high-mobility group box 4 (SOX4) was validated as a target of miR-873-5p. Moreover, hsa_circ_0000277/miR-873-5p axis and miR-873-5p/SOX4 axis regulated ESCC cell progression and DDP resistance. Hsa_circ_0000277/miR-873-5p axis activated SOX4/Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Hsa_circ_0000277 facilitated tumorigenesis and DDP resistance by miR-873-5p/SOX4 axis in vivo.

Conclusion

These findings unraveled that hsa_circ_0000277 promoted ESCC progression and DDP resistance via miR-873-5p/SOX4/Wnt/β-catenin axis, showing a specific molecular mechanism of carcinogenesis and chemoresistance in ESCC.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-022-09241-9.

MiR-223 Promotes Tumor Progression via Targeting RhoB in Gastric Cancer

Gastric cancer (GC) is among the most prevalent causes of cancer-related death globally. MiR-223 has been implicated in a variety of cellular mechanisms linked to cancer progression. However, the miR-223 expressions and its function in GC are unknown. We discovered that miR-223 expression was raised in GC tissues in comparison with nearby normal tissues in this investigation. Additionally, multiplied miR-223 expression was strongly linked with TNM stage (p=0.022), live metastasis (p=0.004),lymph node metastasis (p=0.004),and Borrmann type and was associated with an unfavorable prognostic for patients with GC. Furthermore, suppressing miR-223 significantly increased cell death and prevented cell migration and invasion in vitro. Additionally, miR-223 silencing decreased tumor development in vivo. Additionally, we discovered that miR-223 enhanced GC development by specifically targeting RhoB. In summary, our findings reveal that miR-223 increases tumor progression in GC by targeting RhoB, suggesting that it could serve to be a potential biomarker for the prediction of the disease.

Circ_0085495 knockdown reduces adriamycin resistance in breast cancer through miR-873-5p/integrin β1 axis

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are reported to be related to cancer chemoresistance. However, the role of circ_0085495 in adriamycin (ADM) and its action mechanism has not been elucidated in breast cancer. Cell counting kit-8 was employed to detect cell viability. Quantitative real-time-PCR and western blot were performed to examine the gene and protein expression level. Flow cytometry and colony formation assay were conducted to measure cell apoptosis and proliferation. Cell migration and invasion were evaluated via transwell assay. The target association between molecules was confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter, RNA immunoprecipitation and RNA pull-down assays. Tumor xenograft assay was implemented to explore the role of circ_0085495 in vivo. Circ_0085495 and Integrin β1 were upregulated, while miR-873-5p was downregulated in ADM-resistant cells. Circ_0085495 was a stable circRNA, mainly located in the cytoplasm. Depletion of circ_0085495 repressed ADM resistance, proliferation and metastasis of ADM-resistant breast cancer cells, which was weakened by miR-873-5p inhibition or integrin β1 overexpression. Circ_0085495 sponged miR-873-5p to positively regulate integrin β1 expression. Integrin β1 knockdown also inhibited ADM resistance. Furthermore, circ_0085495 knockdown inhibited tumor growth in vivo. Circ_0085495 knockdown reduced ADM resistance in ADM-resistant cells through modulating miR-873-5p/integrin β1 axis, indicating circ_0085495 as a promising target for overcoming ADM resistance in breast cancer patients.

LncRNA FGD5-AS1 functions as an oncogene to upregulate GTPBP4 expression by sponging miR-873-5p in hepatocellular carcinoma

The long non-coding FGD5-AS1 (LncFGD5-AS1) has been reported to be a novel carcinogenic gene and participant in regulating tumor progression by sponging microRNAs (miRNAs). However, the pattern of expression and the biological role of FGD5-AS1 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains largely unknown. The expression level of FGD5-AS1 in tumor tissues and cell lines was measured by RT-qPCR. CCK-8, EdU, flow cytometry, wound healing and transwell chamber assays were performed to investigate the role of FGD5-AS1 in cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion in HCC. Dual luciferase reporter, and RNA pull-down assays were performed to identify the regulatory interactions among FGD5-AS1, miR-873-5p and GTP-binding protein 4 (GTPBP4). We found that the expression of FGD5-AS1 was upregulated in HCC tissues and cell lines. Moreover, the knockdown of FGD5-AS1 suppressed cell proliferation, migration and invasion, and induced apoptosis in HCC cells. Further studies demonstrated that FGD5-AS1 could function as a competitive RNA by sponging miR-873-5p in HCC cells. Moreover, GTPBP4 was identified as direct downstream target of miR-873-5p in HCC cells and FGD5-AS1mediated the effects of GTPBP4 by competitively binding with miR-873-5p. Taken together, this study demonstrated the regulatory role of FGD5-AS1 in the progression of HCC and identified the miR-873-5p/GTPBP4 axis as the direct downstream pathway. It represents a promising novel therapeutic strategy for HCC patients.

CircC6orf132 Facilitates Proliferation, Migration, Invasion, and Glycolysis of Gastric Cancer Cells Under Hypoxia by Acting on the miR-873-5p/PRKAA1 Axis

Background: Hypoxia is a crucial factor in the progression of various tumors, including gastric cancer (GC). Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are important regulators in GC, and this study focused on researching circC6orf132 in GC progression under hypoxia.

Methods:In vitro experiments were performed in GC cells under hypoxia (1% O₂). CircC6orf132, microRNA-873-5p (miR-873-5p), and protein kinase AMP-activated alpha 1 catalytic subunit (PRKAA1) levels were examined by real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Colony formation assay and transwell assay were used for detecting cell proliferation and migration or invasion. Glycolytic metabolism was evaluated using lactate production, glucose uptake, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) level and extracellular acidification rate (ECAR). Western blotting was performed for determining protein expression. The target interaction was analyzed by dual-luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays. In vivo assay was conducted via mouse xenograft model.

Results: The expression of circC6orf132 was significantly high in GC cells under hypoxia. Hypoxia-induced GC proliferation, migration, invasion, and glycolysis were reversed by silencing circC6orf132. CircC6orf132 targeted miR-873-5p; and the inhibition of circC6orf132 knockdown for the effects of hypoxia on GC cells was abrogated by miR-873-5p inhibitor. PRKAA1 was validated as a downstream gene of miR-873-5p, and miR-873-5p functioned as an anticancer molecule in GC cells under hypoxia by downregulating PRKAA1 level. CircC6orf132 could regulate PRKAA1 by sponging miR-873-5p. CircC6orf132/miR-873-5p/PRKAA1 axis could regulate GC progression under the hypoxic condition. CircC6orf132 downregulation reduced tumorigenesis in vivo through affecting the miR-873-5p/PRKAA1 axis.

Conclusion: CircC6orf132 has been affirmed to promote proliferation, migration, invasion, and glycolysis in GC under hypoxia, partly by depending on the regulation of miR-873-5p/PRKAA1 axis.

MiR-873-5p: A Potential Molecular Marker for Cancer Diagnosis and Prognosis

miR-873 is a microRNA located on chromosome 9p21.1. miR-873-5p and miR-873-3p are the two main members of the miR-873 family. Most studies focus on miR-873-5p, and there are a few studies on miR-873-3p. The expression level of miR-873-5p was down-regulated in 14 cancers and up-regulated in 4 cancers. miR-873-5p has many targeted genes, which have unique molecular functions such as catalytic activity, transcription regulation, and binding. miR-873-5p affects cancer development through the PIK3/AKT/mTOR, Wnt/β-Catenin, NF-κβ, and MEK/ERK signaling pathways. In addition, the target genes of miR-873-5p are closely related to the proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion, cell cycle, cell stemness, and glycolysis of cancer cells. The target genes of miR-873-5p are also related to the efficacy of several anti-cancer drugs. Currently, in cancer, the expression of miR-873-5p is regulated by a variety of epigenetic factors. This review summarizes the role and mechanism of miR-873-5p in human tumors shows the potential value of miR-873-5p as a molecular marker for cancer diagnosis and prognosis.

LncRNA DCST1-AS1 Promotes Endometrial Cancer Progression by Modulating the MiR-665/HOXB5 and MiR-873-5p/CADM1 Pathways

Dysregulation of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) is implicated in the initiation and progression of various tumors, including endometrial cancer (EC). However, the mechanism of lncRNAs in EC tumorigenesis and progression remains largely unexplored. In this work, we identified a novel lncRNA DC-STAMP domain-containing 1-antisense 1 (DCST1-AS1), which is highly upregulated and correlated with poor survival in EC patients. Overexpression of DCST1-AS1 significantly enhanced EC cell proliferation, colony formation, migration, and invasion in vitro and promoted tumor growth of EC in vivo. Mechanistically, DCST1-AS1 mediated EC progression by inducing the expression of homeobox B5 (HOXB5) and cell adhesion molecule 1 (CADM1), via acting as a competing endogenous RNA for microRNA-665 (miR-665) and microRNA-873-5p (miR-873-5p), respectively. In addition, we found that the expression of miR-665 and miR-873-5p was significantly downregulated, while HOXB5 and CADM1 expression levels were increased in EC tissues. Taken together, our findings support the important role of DCST1-AS1 in EC progression, and DCST1-AS1 may be used as a prognostic biomarker as well as a potential therapeutic target for EC.

LncRNA TDRG1 promotes the metastasis of NSCLC cell through regulating miR-873-5p/ZEB1 axis

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are dysregulated in various malignancies and involved in the growth and aggressive phenotypes of cancer cells. Previous studies indicate that lncRNA testis development related 1 (TDRG1) plays critical roles in the development of several malignancies. Nevertheless, the molecular mechanism underlying TDRG1 contributes to non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains elusive. Here, we demonstrate that TDRG1 is significantly overregulated in NSCLC tissues and cell lines. Knockdown of TDRG1 inhibits the proliferation and metastatic-related traits of NSCLC cell in vitro whereas overexpression of TDRG1 causes opposite results. In addition, TDRG1 silencing inhibits the growth and metastatic ability of NSCLC cell in vivo as demonstrated by xenograft tumor model and lung metastasis model. The binding capacity of TDRG1 with miR-873-5p is demonstrated by bioinformatics prediction tool and luciferase reporter gene assay. Additional, the rescue experiments indicate that TDRG1 interacts with miR-873-5p and its expression is positively associated with the target of miR-873-5p, zinc finger e-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1). Altogether, lncRNA TDRG1 facilitates the progression of NSCLC via interacting with miR-873-5p and positively regulates the expression of ZEB1.

CircRNA_0043691 sponges miR-873-3p to promote metastasis of gastric cancer

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of novel RNAs, and aberrant expression of circRNAs has been implicated in human diseases, including gastric cancer (GC). This study aimed to identify the mechanism of circRNA_0043691 in regulating the progression of GC. GSE141977 was downloaded from Gene Expression Omibus ( http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/geo/ ). Differentially expressed circRNAs were obtained by R software. The expression levels of circRNA_0043691 in GC tissue and normal tissue were identified by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Knockdown of circRNA_0043691 was then constructed and verified by qRT-PCR. Cell viability, migration, and invasion capacity were determined by Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, Transwell migration, and invasion, respectively. Next, knockdown of miR-873-3p was constructed and co-cultured with circRNA_0043691 knockdown to identify whether knockdown of miR-873-3p could attenuate the circRNA_0043691 knockdown on GC cells proliferation, migration, and invasion. The relationship between miR-873-3p and circRNA_0043691 or GART was predicted by bioinformatics tools and verified by dual-luciferase reporter. A total of 211 circRNAs were significantly differentially expressed, including 143 remarkably downregulated circRNAs and 68 significantly upregulated circRNAs. CircRNA_0043691 was upregulated in GC tissue. Knockdown of circRNA_0043691 decreased cell viability, migration, and invasion in GC cells. CircRNA_0043691 has potential putative binding sites with miR-873-3p. Moreover, CircRNA_0043691 positively regulated GART expression by sponging miR-873-3p. Furthermore, knockdown of miR-591 could partially attenuate the si-circRNA_0043691 on the GART expression. GART was upregulated in GC tissue and knockdown of GART could inhibit GC cells proliferation and invasion. Knockdown of circRNA_0043691 delayed the progression of GC via modulating the miR-873-3p-GART axis.

Long noncoding RNA MCF2L-AS1 promotes the cancer stem cell-like traits in non-small cell lung cancer cells through regulating miR-873-5p level

The roles of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) MCF2L-AS1 have been identified in colorectal cancer, however, its roles in lung cancer progression have never been revealed. Here, we found that lncRNA MCF2L-AS1 was highly expressed in lung cancer tissues and cells, especially in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Functional experiments showed that MCF2L-AS1 knockdown suppressed the cancer stem cell (CSC)-like traits of NSCLC cells through qRT-PCR, western blot, tumor-sphere formation, and ALDH activity detection. Additionally, bioinformatic assay combined with RNA pull down and luciferase reporter analysis confirmed that MCF2L-AS1 downregulated miR-873-5p level. Furthermore, miR-873-5p expression exhibited a lower level in lung cancer tissues and cells, and a negative correlation with MCF2L-AS1 expression in lung cancer tissues. Moreover, miR-873-5p inhibition partially reversed the suppression of MCF2L-AS1 on the CSC-like traits on NSCLC cells. Thus, this work identifies a novel MCF2L-AS1/miR-873-5p regulatory axis responsible for the CSC-like traits of NSCLC cells.

Inhibition of circRNA circVPS33B Reduces Warburg Effect and Tumor Growth Through Regulating the miR-873-5p/HNRNPK Axis in Infiltrative Gastric Cancer

Background

Circular RNA VPS33B (circVPS33B) has been revealed to be upregulated in gastric cancer (GC) tissues. However, the role of circVPS33B in infiltrative GC is indistinct.

Methods

Expression of circVPS33B was detected using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The proliferation, migration, and invasion of infiltrative GC cells (XGC-1) were determined by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazoliumbromide (MTT), plate clone, wound-healing, or transwell assays. Protein levels were detected by Western blotting. Measurements of extracellular acidification rate (ECAR) and oxygen consumption rate (OCR) were executed using an XF96 extracellular flux analyzer. Glucose uptake and lactate production were analyzed by glycolysis assay. The regulatory mechanism of circVPS33B had been explored by bioinformatics analysis, dual-luciferase reporter assay, and/or RNA pull-down assay. In vivo tumorigenesis assay was executed to verify the oncogenicity of circVPS33B.

Results

CircVPS33B was upregulated in infiltrative GC tissues and cells. CircVPS33B silencing decreased tumor growth in vivo and inhibited proliferation, migration, invasion, EMT, and Warburg effect of infiltrative GC cells in vitro. Mechanically, circVPS33B regulated heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K (HNRNPK) expression via sponging miR-873-5p. Furthermore, miR-873-5p inhibitor offset circVPS33B knockdown-mediated effects on malignant behaviors and Warburg effect of infiltrative GC cells. HNRNPK overexpression reversed the inhibitory impact of miR-873-5p mimic on malignant behaviors and Warburg effect of infiltrative GC cells.

Conclusion

CircVPS33B accelerated Warburg effect and tumor growth through regulating the miR-873-5p/HNRNPK axis in infiltrative GC, manifesting that circVPS33B might be a potential target for infiltrative GC treatment.

MiR-873-5p modulates progression of tongue squamous cell carcinoma via targeting SEC11A

OBJECTIVE

To explore the effect of miR-873-5p on proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion of tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) by targeting SEC11A.

METHODS

Tongue squamous cell carcinoma tissues were collected and performed by qRT-PCR and Western blotting to determine the expression of miR-873-5p and SPC18. SCC9 and CAL-27 cells were transfected and divided into Mock, mimic NC, miR-873-5p mimic, SEC11A, and miR-873-5p mimic + SEC11A groups. Then, a series of experiments including cell count kit 8 (CCK-8), wound healing, Transwell, and flow cytometry were conducted. Besides, Western blotting was used to detect the expression of SPC18 and EGFR pathway-related proteins.

RESULTS

MiR-873-5p was downregulated while SPC18 was upregulated in TSCC, and miR-873-5p was negatively correlated with SPC18. Dual luciferase reporter gene assay confirmed SEC11A to be a target of miR-873-5p. Cell proliferation, migration, and invasion of SCC9 and CAL-27 cells in miR-873-5p mimic group were decreased with increased cell apoptosis, presenting with downregulations of SPC18 and EGFR pathway-related proteins, while cells in SEC11A group manifested totally different changes. Moreover, the inhibitory effect of miR-873-5p mimic on TSCC cell growth was abolished by SEC11A overexpression.

CONCLUSION

Overexpression of miR-873-5p may suppress cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, but facilitate apoptosis in TSCC via targeting SEC11A.

LncRNA CHRF aggravates myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury by enhancing autophagy via modulation of the miR-182-5p/ATG7 pathway

Myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is a very frequent cardiovascular disease and one of the leading causes of death. Abundant evidence has shown that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are crucial players in myocardial I/R injury. LncRNA cardiac hypertrophy-related factor (CHRF) has been revealed as an important modulator in cardiac disease. However, the function of CHRF in myocardial I/R injury is unclear. In our current work, we found that the expression of CHRF was upregulated in myocardial I/R injury models. Suppression of CHRF relieved myocardial I/R injury in vivo. In addition, in vitro silencing of CHRF enhanced cell viability and attenuated lactate dehydrogenase activity (LDH) as well as apoptosis in H9C2 cells treated with hypoxia/reoxygenation injury. Autophagy has been studied to play an important role in myocardial I/R injury. Thus, experiments related to autophagy were done, and the results showed that CHRF knockdown decreased autophagy. For the exploration of the regulatory mechanism, we found that CHRF sequestered and negatively regulated miR-182-5p to release its inhibition on ATG7. Findings from rescue assays revealed that ATG7 overexpression could suppress the effects of CHRF silence on cell viability, LDH level, apoptosis, and autophagy. To sum up, our results suggested that CHRF exacerbated myocardial I/R injury by enhancing autophagy via modulation of the miR-182-5p/ATG7 pathway. Therefore, this competing endogenous RNA axis may be a potential therapeutic biomarker for myocardial I/R injury.

Circular RNA circ_0004507 contributes to laryngeal cancer progression and cisplatin resistance by sponging miR-873 to upregulate multidrug resistance 1 and multidrug resistance protein 1

BACKGROUND

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play critical roles in various types of cancer and chemosensitivity.

METHODS

The expression levels of circ_0004507 and microRNA-873 (miR-873) were measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The interaction between circ_0004507 and miR-873 was predicted by circinteractome and verified by dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA pull-down assay. Xenograft tumor model was established to confirm the biological role of circ_0004507 in vivo.

RESULTS

circ_0004507 was highly expressed and miR-873 was lowly expressed in laryngeal cancer tissues. circ_0004507 knockdown or miR-873 overexpression inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion, and increased apoptosis and cisplatin sensitivity in laryngeal cancer cells. miR-873 was identified as a direct target of circ_0004507. circ_0004507 interference inhibited tumor growth and promoted cisplatin sensitivity by upregulating miR-873 in vivo.

CONCLUSION

Knockdown of circ_0004507 inhibited laryngeal cancer progression and cisplatin resistance by sponging miR-873, providing a potential target for laryngeal cancer therapy.

Long non-coding RNA DDX11-AS1 facilitates gastric cancer progression by regulating miR-873-5p/SPC18 axis

Gastric cancer (GC) is a malignant tumour with high lethality. Accruing evidence elucidates the critical adjusting role of long non-coding RNA (lncRNAs) in human cancers. DDX11 antisense RNA 1 (DDX11-AS1) was previously found to be involved in GC pathogenesis. However, the precise molecular mechanisms of DDX11-AS1 need to be further investigated. In this study, we found that DDX11-AS1 expression was up-regulated in GC tumour tissues and cells. Increased DDX11-AS1 expression was associated with advanced TNM stage and lymph node metastasis. Functionally, knockdown of DDX11-AS1 repressed cell proliferation and clone formation, while induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. As expected, DDX11-AS1 overexpression displayed the opposite effect. Mechanically, DDX11-AS1 enhanced SPC18 expression through acting as a ceRNA for miR-873-5p. Furthermore, the inhibitory effect of DDX11-AS1 silencing on malignant biological behaviour of GC cells was attenuated by either miR-873-5p inhibitor or SEC11A up-regulation. Moreover, suppression of DDX11-AS1 also decreased GC tumorigenesis in vivo. In conclusion, DDX11-AS1 may serve as an oncogene in GC progression by sponging miR-873-5p and promoting SPC18 expression, providing a new insight into the mechanisms of DDX11-AS1 and elucidating a promising therapy target in GC.

Soy isoflavone genistein inhibits hsa_circ_0031250/miR-873-5p/FOXM1 axis to suppress non-small-cell lung cancer progression

The foods of plants provide the rich nutrition and have protective function in human diseases, including cancers. Genistein is a major isoflavone constituent in soybeans, which has an anti-cancer role in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Nevertheless, the mechanism underlying the anti-cancer function of genistein in NSCLC remains largely unknown. NSCLC cells (H292 and A549) were exposed to genistein. Circular RNA hsa_circ_0031250 (circ_0031250), microRNA (miR)-873-5p and forkhead box M1 (FOXM1) abundances were examined via quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting. The function of genistein, circ_0031250, miR-873-5p, and FOXM1 on NSCLC progression was investigated via Cell Counting Kit-8, colony formation, transwell well, wound healing, flow cytometry, Western blotting and xenograft model. The target relationship was analyzed by dual-luciferase reporter analysis and RNA immunoprecipitation. Results showed that genistein inhibited NSCLC cell viability in dose-time-dependent patterns. circ_0031250 abundance was elevated in NSCLC samples and cell lines, and it was reduced via genistein exposure. circ_0031250 knockdown aggravated genistein-caused suppression of cell proliferation, migration and invasion and elevation of apoptosis. miR-873-5p expression was decreased in NSCLC samples and cells. miR-873-5p was targeted via circ_0031250, and miR-873-5p knockdown attenuated the influence of circ_0031250 silence on NSCLC progression in the presence of genistein. FOXM1 was regulated via circ_0031250/miR-873-5p axis. miR-873-5p constrained cell proliferation, migration and invasion and increased apoptosis via regulating FOXM1 in genistein-treated cells. circ_0031250 knockdown enhanced the inhibitive function of genistein on NSCLC cell growth in xenograft model. Collectively, genistein repressed NSCLC progression by modulating circ_0031250/miR-873-5p/FOXM1 axis.

Mining miRNAs' Expressions in Glioma Based on GEO Database and Their Effects on Biological Functions

PURPOSE

To mine miR expression in glioma based on the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and to explore its effects on biological functions.

METHODS

Differentially expressed miRs in glioma-related chips were found out based on the GEO database. Fifty patients with glioma treated in our hospital from February 2012 to July 2013 (observation group, OG) and a further 50 healthy people undergoing physical examinations (control group, CG) were enrolled. miR-873-5p expression in serum and in U87, T98G, U251, LN-229, and HEK-293T cells was tested by qRT-PCR. T98G and U251 cells were transfected with miR-873-5p-mimics and miR-NC sequences. The expression in the two cells was also tested by qRT-PCR. The proliferation, invasion, and apoptosis of the transfected cells were, respectively, tested by MTT assay, Transwell, and flow cytometry. The patients were followed up for 5 years to observe their survival.

RESULTS

miR-873-5p expression in OG was remarkably higher than that in CG (p < 0.001). miR-873-5p was closely correlated with the tumor diameter, lymph node metastasis, and TNM staging of the patients (p < 0.05). According to the plotted receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, the areas under the curves (AUCs) of miR-873-5p for diagnosing the disease, tumor diameter, lymph node metastasis, and TNM staging were 0.842, 0.706, 0.865, and 0.793, respectively. The 5-year and recurrence-free survival rates in the low expression group were lower than those in the high expression group. According to multivariate Cox regression analysis, tumor diameter, lymph node metastasis, and miR-873-5p were independent prognostic factors for the disease. After transfection, compared with those in the miR-NC group, T98G and U251 cells in the miR-873-5p-mimic group had remarkably higher miR-873-5p expression (p < 0.05), remarkably lower proliferation and invasion rates (p < 0.05), and a remarkably higher apoptotic rate (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

miR-873-5p can inhibit glioma cells to proliferate and invade, and promote their apoptosis, so it is expected to become a potential diagnostic index and therapeutic target for glioma.

Long non-coding RNA HOTAIRM1 promotes proliferation and inhibits apoptosis of glioma cells by regulating the miR-873-5p/ZEB2 axis

Background

Glioblastoma is one of the most common malignant brain tumors. Conventional clinical treatment of glioblastoma is not sufficient, and the molecular mechanism underlying the initiation and development of this disease remains unclear. Our study aimed to explore the expression and function of miR-873a-5p in glioblastoma and related molecular mechanism.

Methods

We analyzed the most dysregulated microRNAs from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and examined the expression of miR-873-5p in 20 glioblastoma tissues compared with ten normal brain tissues collected in the Zhejiang Tongde Hospital. We then overexpressed or inhibited miR-873-5p expression in U87 glioblastoma cell lines and analyzed the phenotype using the cell counting kit-8 assay, wound healing assay, and apoptosis. In addition, we predicted upstream and downstream genes of miR-873-5p in glioblastoma using bioinformatics analysis and tested our hypothesis in U87 cells using the luciferase reporter gene assay and Western blotting assay. The differences between two groups were analyzed by Student's t test. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used for the comparison of multiple groups. A P < 0.05 was considered to be significant.

Results

The miR-873-5p was downregulated in glioblastoma tissues compared with that in normal brain tissues (normal vs. tumor, 0.762 ± 0.231 vs. 0.378 ± 0.114, t = 4.540, P < 0.01). Overexpression of miR-873-5p inhibited cell growth (t = 6.095, P < 0.01) and migration (t = 3.142, P < 0.01) and promoted cell apoptosis (t = 4.861, P < 0.01), while inhibition of miR-873-5p had the opposite effect. Mechanistically, the long non-coding RNA HOTAIRM1 was found to act as a sponge of miR-873-5p to activate ZEB2 expression in U87 cells.

Conclusions

We uncovered a novel HOTAIRM1/miR-873-5p/ZEB2 axis in glioblastoma cells, providing new insight into glioblastoma progression and a theoretical basis for the treatment of glioblastoma.

Role of MicroRNAs in the Progression and Metastasis of Colon Cancer

MicroRNAs regulate gene expression at the posttranscriptional level by binding to the mRNA of their target genes. The dysfunction of miRNAs is strongly associated with the inflammation of the colon. Besides, some microRNAs are shown to suppress tumours, while others promote tumour progression and metastasis. Inflammatory bowel diseases include Crohn's disease and Ulcerative colitis, which increase the risk factor for inflammation-associated colon cancer. MicroRNAs are shown to be involved in gastrointestinal pathologies by targeting the transcripts encoding proteins of the intestinal barrier and their regulators that are associated with inflammation and colon cancer. Detection of these microRNAs in the blood, serum, tissues, faecal matter, etc, will enable us to use these microRNAs as biomarkers for early detection of the associated malignancies and design novel therapeutic strategies to overcome the same. Information on MicroRNAs can be applied for the development of targeted therapies against inflammation-mediated colon cancer.

CircRNA hsa_circRNA_0000069 promotes the proliferation, migration and invasion of cervical cancer through miR-873-5p/TUSC3 axis

Background

Cervical cancer (CC) is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in women worldwide, still lacking effective biomarkers and therapies for diagnosis and treatment. CircRNAs are a class of endogenous RNAs that regulate gene expression through interacting with miRNAs, implicating in the progression of cancers. Yet the roles of circRNAs in CC are not fully characterized.

Methods

Fifty pairs of tumor and adjacent normal tissues from CC patients, as well as four CC cell lines and a normal human cervical epithelial cell line were subjected to qRT-PCR assay to assess the mRNA levels of hsa_circ_0000069. CCK-8 and colony formation assays were conducted to detect the proliferation of CC cells. Transwell assay was used to evaluate the migration and invasion capabilities of CC cells. RNA pull-down and luciferase assays were used to determine the interaction between hsa_circ_0000069 and miR-873-5p. A xenograft model of CC was established to verify the in vivo function of hsa_circ_0000069 in CC progression.

Results

We firstly demonstrated that hsa_circ_0000069 was significantly upregulated and closely related to the lymph node metastasis, and poor prognosis of CC patients. Besides, hsa_circ_0000069 promoted CC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. The knockdown of hsa_circ_0000069 also inhibited CC tumor growth in vivo. Mechanically, we revealed that hsa_circ_0000069 functioned as an oncogene in CC, which is the sponge of miR-873-5p to facilitate the TUSC3 expression, consequently promoting CC progression.

Conclusion

We demonstrated a critical hsa_circ_0000069-miR-873-5p-TUSC3 function network involved in the CC progression, which provides mechanistic insights into the roles of CircRNAs in CC progression and a promising therapeutic target for CC treatment.

MiR-873, as a suppressor in cervical cancer, inhibits cells proliferation, invasion and migration via negatively regulating ULBP2

BACKGROUND

Cervical cancer (CC) remains a large burden in the developing countries. The tumor inhibitory role of miR-873 has been verified in a variety of cancers, however, whether miR-873 has a suppressive effect on CC remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the functional role of miR-873 in CC, as well as explore the underlying molecular mechanism.

METHODS

The prognostic values of miR-873 were assessed by Kaplan-Meier methods and cox regression models using the data which were downloaded from TCGA database. The expression of miR-873 was measured by RT-qPCR. Cell counting Kit-8, clone formation, and Transwell assays were used to assess the cell viability and metastasis, appropriately. The targeting relationship between miR-873 and ULBP2 was predicted by biological software and confirmed by dual luciferase reporter assay. Rescue assays were conducted to investigate whether miR-873 affects the phenotype of CC cells via regulating ULBP2.

RESULTS

We observed that miR-873 was low-expressed in CC. Up-regulation of miR-873 notably restrained the proliferation, invasion and migration of C33a cells. Meanwhile, down-regulation of miR-873 in SiHa cells presented the opposite outcomes. ULBP2 was forecasted and certified as a target of miR-873. The results of rescue assays showed that overexpression of ULBP2 could restore the proliferation and motility of CC cells that inhibited by miR-873.

CONCLUSION

MiR-873 suppressed the CC cells proliferation, invasion and migration via negatively regulating ULBP2, suggesting that miR-873 could serve as a valuable therapeutic target for CC therapy.

MicroRNA-937 is overexpressed and predicts poor prognosis in patients with colon cancer

Background

Colon cancer is a heterogeneous tumor and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. MicroRNA (miRNA) has been proposed as the biomarker in cancers. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical significance and potential functional role of miR-937 in colon cancer.

Methods

In the present study, reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was conducted to examine the expression levels of miR-937 in colon cancer tissues and cell lines. Kaplan-Meier curve and Cox regression analyses were used to determine the prognostic impact of miR-937 on survival. Cell Counting Kit-8 and Transwell assays were performed to examine cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, respectively.

Results

miR-937 was significantly upregulated in colon cancer tissues and cell lines. Clinical analysis results showed that miR-937 expression was associated with lymph node metastasis and TNM stage. Patients with high miR-937 expression predicted a shorter overall survival rate. Functionally, overexpression of miR-937 promoted cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, while inhibition of miR-937 inhibited these cellular behaviors in vitro.

Conclusions

These results suggested that miR-937 may act as a prognostic biomarker and a potential target for therapeutic strategy, as well as promote proliferation, migration, and invasion of colon cancer.

STRA6 exerts oncogenic role in gastric tumorigenesis by acting as a crucial target of miR-873

Background

Increasing evidence shows that stimulated by retinoic acid 6 (STRA6) participates in regulating multiple cancers. However, the biological roles of STRA6 in gastric cancer (GC) remain unknown. This study aimed to investigate the biological function of STRA6 and reveal the underlying mechanism of its dysregulation in GC.

Methods

The expression level of STRA6 was detected through quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot analysis. The effects of STRA6 on the proliferation of GC cells were studied through CCK-8 proliferation, colony formation and 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU) assays. The effects of STRA6 on migration and invasion were detected via wound healing and Transwell assays. Upstream miRNAs, which might regulate STRA6 expression, was predicted through bioinformatics analysis. Their interaction was further confirmed through dual-luciferase reporter assays and rescue experiments.

Results

STRA6 was up-regulated in GC and enhanced the proliferation and metastasis of GC cells in vitro and in vivo. STRA6 knockdown could inhibit the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway. STRA6 was confirmed as an miR-873 target, which acted as a tumour suppressor in GC. Rescue assays showed that the repressing effect of miR-873 could be partially reversed by overexpressing STRA6.

Conclusions

STRA6 is down-regulated by miR-873 and plays an oncogenic role by activating Wnt/β-catenin signalling in GC.

Overexpression of miR-671-5p indicates a poor prognosis in colon cancer and accelerates proliferation, migration, and invasion of colon cancer cells

Purpose

Colon cancer is one of the common malignancies worldwide, and many genes, including microRNAs (miRNAs), have been demonstrated that associated with progression of various diseases, including cancers. The aim of this study is to investigate the potential role of miR-671-5p in colon cancer.

Patients and methods

Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was performed to detect the expression levels of miR-671-5p in 115 paired colon cancer tissues and adjacent normal tissues, as well as in colon cancer cells. Kaplan-Meier curve and Cox regression analyses were used to estimate the prognostic significance of miR-671-5p in colon cancer. CCK-8 assay, colony-formation assay, Transwell migration and invasion assays were used to evaluate the effects of miR-671-5p on cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in colon cancer.

Results

We found that miR-671-5p expression was increased in colon cancer tissues and cell lines. Overexpression of miR-671-5p was found associated with lymph node metastasis, TNM stage, and poor overall survival of patients with colon cancer. By exploiting miR-671-5p mimics and inhibitors, miR-671-5p overexpression significantly increased cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, while downregulation of miR-671-5p inhibited proliferation, migration, and invasion of colon cancer cells.

Conclusion

Taken together, miR-671-5p may act as an oncogene in colon cancer and promote proliferation, migration, and invasion of colon cancer cells by targeting TRIM67. And it may be a promising prognostic biomarker and therapeutic application for colon cancer treatment.