MicroRNAs in Cancer: From Gene Expression Regulation to the Metastatic Niche Reprogramming

Non-coding RNAs in urinary bladder cancer microenvironment: Diagnostic, therapeutic, and prognostic perspective

Urinary bladder cancer (UBC) is the ninth most common cancer worldwide. Despite the reliance of UBC therapy on definite pathological grading and classifications, the clinical response among patients varies widely. The molecular basis of this type of cancer appeals to considerable research; hence, new diagnostic and therapeutic options are introduced. Convenient keywords were searched in Google Scholar, PubMed, the Egyptian Knowledge Bank (EKB), and Web of Science. The recent era of UBC research is concerned with non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), predominantly, microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNA (lncRNAs). In addition, snoRNAs, PIWI-interacting RNAs, mitochondrial RNAs, circular, and Schistosoma haematobium-related ncRNAs appeared to contribute to the pathogenesis of the UBC. This review underscored the recently studied ncRNAs and their importance in the pathogenesis of UBC. Besides, we introduced the prospectives regarding their diagnostic, therapeutic, and prognostic significance in UBC clinical settings. Conclusion. Oncogenic and oncosuppressor ncRNAs' definite balances and interaction within the TME of UBC are key players in the fate of the tumor. Thus, profiling ncRNA in-depth inspects the TME of the UBC for better clinical insights.

Harnessing miRNAs: A Novel Approach to Diagnosis and Treatment of Tuberculosis

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) complex, responsible for tuberculosis (TB) infection, continues to be a predominant global cause of mortality due to intricate host-pathogen interactions that affect disease progression. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), essential posttranscriptional regulators, have become pivotal modulators of these relationships. Recent findings indicate that miRNAs actively regulate immunological responses to Mtb complex by modulating autophagy, apoptosis, and immune cell activities. This has resulted in increased interest in miRNAs as prospective diagnostic indicators for TB, especially in differentiating active infection from latent or inactive stages. Variations in miRNA expression during Mtb infection indicate disease progression and offer insights into the immune response. Furthermore, miRNAs present potential as therapeutic targets in host-directed therapy (HDT) techniques for TB infection. This work examines the function of miRNAs in TB pathogenesis, with the objective of identifying particular miRNAs that regulate the immune response to the Mtb complex, evaluating their diagnostic value and exploring their therapeutic implications in host-directed therapy for TB infection. The objective is to enhance comprehension of how miRNAs can facilitate improved diagnosis and treatment of TB.

Chlorine containing tetrahydropyrimidines: Synthesis, characterization, anticancer activity and mechanism of action

The aim of the presented research was to explore anticancer potential of eleven newly synthesized tetrahydropyrimidine derivatives. The compounds were synthesized via Biginelli multicomponent one-pot reaction using different derivatives of vanillin, ethyl 4-chloroacetoacetate and (N-methyl)urea. The cytotoxic effects of the compounds were examined on three human malignant cell lines (HeLa, K562, and MCF7), and normal lung fibroblasts MRC-5. The mechanisms of anticancer activity were examined for two compounds 4a and 4b which showed the strongest and selective cytotoxicity against chronic myelogenous leukaemia K562 cells (IC50 = 1.76 ± 0.09, and 1.66 ± 0.05, respectively). The changes of matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2), matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9), and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) were investigated in the K562 cell line, as well as oncomiRNA miR-10b, miR-23a described to have both features, depending on a specific type of malignancy, and miR-34a with mostly described as a tumour suppressor.

Exploring the role of microRNAs as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in canine mammary tumors

Canine mammary tumors (CMTs) represent a significant health concern in dogs, with a high incidence among intact female dogs. CMTs are a promising comparative model for human breast cancer, due to sharing several pathophysiological features. Additionally, CMTs have a strong genetic correlation with their human counterpart, including the expression of microRNAs (miRNAs). MiRNAs are a class of non-coding RNAs that play important roles in post-translational regulation of gene expression, being implicated in carcinogenesis, tumor progression, and metastasis. Moreover, miRNAs hold promise as diagnostic, prognostic, and metastatic biomarkers. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying CMTs is crucial for improving diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring of treatments. Herein, we provide a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge on miRNAs in CMTs, highlighting their roles in carcinogenesis and their potential as biomarkers. Additionally, we highlight the current limitations and critically discuss the overarching challenges in this field, emphasizing the need for future research to translate miRNA findings into veterinary clinical practice.

Harnessing the power of miRNAs for precision diagnosis and treatment of male infertility

Infertility is a multifactorial reproductive system disorder, and most infertility cases occur in men. Semen testing is now thought to be the most important diagnostic test for infertile men; nonetheless, because of its limitations, the cause of infertility remains unknown for 40% of infertile men. Semen assessment's shortcomings indicate the need for improved and innovative diagnostic techniques and biomarkers worldwide. Non-coding RNAs with a length of roughly 18-22 nucleotides are called microRNAs (miRNAs). Most of our protein-coding genes are post-transcriptionally regulated by them. These molecules are unusual in bodily fluids, and aberrant variations in their expression can point to specific conditions like infertility. As a result, fresh potential biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of various forms of male infertility may be represented by miRNAs. This review examined the most recent research revealing the association between different miRNAs' functions in male infertility and their expression patterns. Also, it aims to figure out the most recent strategies that could be applied for using such miRNAs as possible therapeutic targets for infertility treatment.

Harnessing natural compounds to modulate miRNAs in breast cancer therapy

Breast cancer's complexity and heterogeneity continue to present significant challenges in its treatment and management. Emerging research has underscored the pivotal role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in breast cancer pathogenesis, acting as crucial regulators of gene expression. This review delivers an in-depth analysis of miRNAs, highlighting their dual functions as both oncogenes and tumor suppressors, and detailing their impact on key biological processes, including cell proliferation, apoptosis, and metastasis. The mechanisms underlying miRNA action, particularly their interactions with target mRNAs and the factors influencing these dynamics, are thoroughly explored. Additionally, the review discusses the therapeutic prospects of miRNAs, with a focus on innovative delivery systems like nanoparticles that improve the stability and effectiveness of miRNA-based therapies. It also addresses the anticancer effects of natural compounds, such as genistein, hesperidin, quercetin, curcumin, resveratrol, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), and glyceollins, which modulate miRNA expression and contribute to tumor growth inhibition. These advances seek to address the limitations of conventional therapies, paving the way for targeted interventions in breast cancer. By integrating current insights on miRNA biology, therapeutic strategies, and the potential of natural products to regulate miRNA expression, this review aims to shed light on miRNA- and natural product-based approaches as promising avenues for enhancing breast cancer treatment outcomes.

RUNX2 regulation in osteoblast differentiation: A possible therapeutic function of the lncRNA and miRNA-mediated network

Osteogenic differentiation is a crucial process in the formation of the skeleton and the remodeling of bones. It relies on a complex system of signaling pathways and transcription factors, including Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2). Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) control the bone-specific transcription factor RUNX2 through post-transcriptional mechanisms to regulate osteogenic differentiation. The most research has focused on microRNAs (miRNAs) and long ncRNAs (lncRNAs) in studying how they regulate RUNX2 for osteogenesis in both normal and pathological situations. This article provides a concise overview of the recent advancements in understanding the critical roles of lncRNA/miRNA/axes in controlling the expression of RUNX2 during bone formation. The possible application of miRNAs and lncRNAs as therapeutic agents for the treatment of disorders involving the bones and bones itself is also covered.

Roles of miR-20a-5p in breast cancer based on the clinical and multi-omic (CAMO) cohort and in vitro studies

MicroRNAs are involved in breast cancer development and progression, holding potential as biomarkers and therapeutic targets or tools. The roles of miR-20a-5p, a member of the oncogenic miR-17-92 cluster, remain poorly understood in the context of breast cancer. In this study, we elucidate the role of miR-20a-5p in breast cancer by examining its associations with breast cancer risk factors and clinicopathological features, and its functional roles in vitro. Tissue microarrays from 313 CAMO cohort breast cancer surgical specimens were constructed, in situ hybridization was performed and miR-20a-5p expression was semiquantitatively scored in tumor stromal fibroblasts, and in the cytoplasm and nuclei of cancer cells. In vitro analysis of the effect of miR-20a-5p transfection on proliferation, migration and invasion was performed in three breast cancer cell lines. High stromal miR-20a-5p was associated with higher Ki67 expression, and higher odds of relapse, compared to low expression. Compared to postmenopausal women, women who were premenopausal at diagnosis had higher odds of high stromal and cytoplasmic miR-20a-5p expression. Cytoplasmic miR-20a-5p was significantly associated with tumor grade. In tumors with high cytoplasmic miR-20a-5p expression compared to low expression, there was a tendency towards having a basal-like subtype and high Ki67. In contrast, high nuclear miR-20a-5p in cancer cells was associated with smaller tumor size and lower odds of lymph node metastasis, compared to low nuclear expression. Transfection with miR-20a-5p in breast cancer cell lines led to increased migration and invasion in vitro. While the majority of our results point towards an oncogenic role, some of our findings indicate that the associations of miR-20a-5p with breast cancer related risk factors and outcomes may vary based on tissue- and subcellular location. Larger studies are needed to validate our findings and further investigate the clinical utility of miR-20a-5p.

The emerging role of miRNAs in pituitary adenomas: From molecular signatures to diagnostic potential

Pituitary adenomas (PAs) are an array of tumors originating from the pituitary gland. PAs are sorted as functional or nonfunctional according to their hormonal activity and classified according to size into microadenomas and macroadenomas. Still, the cellular events that trigger the transformations in pituitary neoplasms are not fully understood, and the current classification methods do not precisely predict clinical behavior. A rising number of researches have emphasized the role of miRNAs, that drawn more attention as oncogenic molecules or tumor suppressors. The etiopathological mechanisms of PAs include multiple molecular cascades that are influenced by different miRNAs. miRNAs control the cell cycle control, pro- or antiapoptotic processes, and tumor invasion and metastasis. miRNAs offer a novel perspective on tumor features and behaviors and might be valuable in prognostication and therapeutic plans. In pituitary adenomas, miRNAs showed a specific expression pattern depending on their size, cell origin, remission, and treatments. Screening miRNA expression patterns is promising to monitor and evaluate recurrence, as well as to investigate the efficacy of radiation and chemotherapy for PAs exhibiting aggressive behavior. Thus, the current review investigated the interplay of the miRNAs' pivotal role in offering new opportunities to translate these innovative epigenetic tools into healthcare applications.

Approaches based on miRNAs in Behçet's Disease: Unveiling pathogenic mechanisms, diagnostic strategies, and therapeutic applications

Behçet's Disease (BD) is an intricate medical puzzle, captivating researchers with its enigmatic pathogenesis. This complex ailment, distinguished by recurrent mouth and genital lesions, eye irritation, and skin injuries, presents a substantial obstacle to therapeutic research. This review explores the complex interaction of microRNAs (miRNAs) with BD, highlighting their crucial involvement in the disease's pathophysiology. miRNAs, recognized for regulatory influence in diverse biological processes, hold a pivotal position in the molecular mechanisms of autoimmune diseases, such as BD. The exploration begins with examining miRNA biogenic pathways and functions, establishing a foundational understanding of their regulatory mechanisms. Shifting to the molecular landscape governing BD, the review highlights miRNA-mediated impacts on critical signaling pathways like Notch, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), and protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), offering insights into intricate pathophysiological mechanisms. Dissecting the immunological landscape reveals the profound influence of miRNAs on BD, shedding light on the intricate modulation of immune responses and offering novel perspectives on disease etiology and progression. Beyond molecular intricacies, the review explores the clinical relevance of miRNAs in BD, emphasizing their potential as diagnostic and prognostic indicators. The discussion extends to the promising realm of miRNA-based therapeutic interventions, highlighting their potential in alleviating symptoms and altering disease progression. This comprehensive review, serving as a valuable resource for researchers, clinicians, and stakeholders, aims to decipher the intricate molecular tapestry of BD and explore the therapeutic potential of miRNAs.

Decoding the secrets of longevity: unraveling nutraceutical and miRNA-Mediated aging pathways and therapeutic strategies

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short RNA molecules that are not involved in coding for proteins. They have a significant function in regulating gene expression after the process of transcription. Their participation in several biological processes has rendered them appealing subjects for investigating age-related disorders. Increasing data indicates that miRNAs can be influenced by dietary variables, such as macronutrients, micronutrients, trace minerals, and nutraceuticals. This review examines the influence of dietary factors and nutraceuticals on the regulation of miRNA in relation to the process of aging. We examine the present comprehension of miRNA disruption in age-related illnesses and emphasize the possibility of dietary manipulation as a means of prevention or treatment. Consolidating animal and human research is essential to validate the significance of dietary miRNA control in living organisms, despite the abundance of information already provided by several studies. This review elucidates the complex interaction among miRNAs, nutrition, and aging, offering valuable insights into promising areas for further research and potential therapies for age-related disorders.

MicroRNA-320a enhances LRWD1 expression through the AGO2/FXR1-dependent pathway to affect cell behaviors and the oxidative stress response in human testicular embryonic carcinoma cells

BACKGROUND

Testicular cancer is fairly rare but can affect fertility in adult males. Leucine-rich repeats- and WD repeat domain-containing protein 1 (LRWD1) is a sperm-specific marker that mainly affects sperm motility in reproduction. Our previous study demonstrated the impact of LRWD1 on testicular cancer development; however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear.

METHODS

In this study, various plasmids associated with LRWD1 and miR-320a manipulation were used to explore the roles and regulatory effects of these molecules in NT2D1 cellular processes. A Dual-Glo luciferin-luciferase system was used to investigate LRWD1 transcriptional activity, and qRT-PCR and western blotting were used to determine gene and protein expression.

RESULTS

The results suggested that miR-320a positively regulated LRWD1 and positively correlated with NT2D1 cell proliferation but negatively correlated with cell migration and invasion ability. In addition, the miRNA-ribonucleoprotein complex AGO2/FXR1 was shown to be essential in the mechanism by which miR-320a regulates LRWD1 mRNA expression. As miR-320a was required to regulate LRWD1 expression through the AGO2 and FXR1 complex, eEF2 and eLF4E were also found to be involved in miR-320a increasing LRWD1 expression. Furthermore, miR-320a and LRWD1 were responsive to oxidative stress, and NRF2 was affected by the presence of miR-320a in response to ROS stimulation.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study showing the role of miR-320a in upregulating the testicular cancer-specific regulator LRWD1 and the importance of the AGO2/FXR1 complex in miR-320a-mediated upregulation of LRWD1 during testicular cancer progression.

Targeting the ZNF-148/miR-335/SOD2 signaling cascade triggers oxidative stress-mediated pyroptosis and suppresses breast cancer progression

BACKGROUND

The implication of zinc finger protein 148 (ZNF-148) in pathophysiology of most human cancers has been reported; however, the biological functions of ZNF-148 in breast cancer remain unclear. This study sought to elucidate the potential molecular mechanism of ZNF-148 on breast cancer pathology.

METHODS

ZNF148 expression was tested in breast cancer tissues and cells. Then, cells were transfected with ZNF-148 overexpression or downregulation vector, and the cell proliferation, pyroptosis, apoptosis, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production were analyzed by MTT, western blot, flow cytometry, and immunofluorescence staining, respectively. Tumor-bearing nude mouse was used to evaluate tumorigenesis of ZNF-148. Mechanisms underpinning ZNF-148 were examined using bioinformatics and luciferase assays.

RESULTS

We found that ZNF-148 was upregulated in breast cancer tissues and cell lines. Knockdown of ZNF-148 suppressed malignant phenotypes, including cell proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and tumorigenesis in vitro and in vivo, while ZNF-148 overexpression had the opposite effects. Further experiments showed that ZNF-148 deficiency promoted ROS production and triggered both apoptotic and pyroptotic cell death, which were restored by cotreating cells with ROS scavengers. A luciferase reporter assay revealed that miR-335 was the downstream target of ZNF-148 and that overexpressed ZNF-148 increased superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) expression by sponging miR-335. In parallel, both miR-335 downregulation and SOD2 overexpression abrogated the antitumor effects of ZNF-148 deficiency on proliferation and pyroptosis in breast cancer cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicated that ZNF-148 promotes breast cancer progression by triggering miR-335/SOD2/ROS-mediated pyroptotic cell death and aid the identification of potential therapeutic targets for breast cancer.

Recent advances in novel miRNA mediated approaches for targeting breast cancer

Breast cancer (BC) is considered one of the most frequent cancers among woman worldwide. While conventional therapy has been successful in treating many cases of breast cancer, drug resistance, heterogenicity, tumour features and recurrence, invasion, metastasis and the presence of breast cancer stem cells can hinder the effect of treatments, and can reduce the quality of life of patients. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short non-coding RNA molecules that play a crucial role in the development and progression of breast cancer. Several studies have reported that aberrant expression of specific miRNAs is associated with the pathogenesis of breast cancer. However, miRNAs are emerging as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for breast cancer. Understanding their role in breast cancer biology could help develop more effective treatments for this disease. The present study discusses the biogenesis and function of miRNAs, as well as miRNA therapy approaches for targeting and treating breast cancer cells.

LINC00638 promotes the progression of non-small cell lung cancer by regulating the miR-541-3p/IRS1/PI3K/Akt axis

Background

Preceding works reveal the function of long non-coding RNAs (abbreviated to lncRNAs) during non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) evolvement. We explored the profile and biological functions of the lncRNA LINC00638 in NSCLC.

Methods

Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR examined LINC00638 level in NSCLC and corresponding non-tumor tissues, human normal lung epithelial cells BEAS-2B, and NSCLC cells (NCI-H460, HCC-827, A549, H1299, H1975, H460). The gain- and loss-of-function assay of LINC00638 ascertained its function in modulating the proliferation, apoptosis, and invasion of NSCLC cells (HCC-827 and H460). Bioinformatics analysis investigated the underlying mechanisms. Dual luciferase reporter gene and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) checked the interactions between LINC00638 and microRNA (miR)-541-3p, miR-541-3p and insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS1).

Results

LINC00638 was upregulated in NSCLC tissues by contrast to the profiles found in the corresponding non-tumor normal tissues, as well as in NSCLC cells vis-à-vis BEAS-2B cells. LINC00638 upregulation pertained to the poorer survival rates of NSCLC patients. Overexpressing LINC00638 augmented NSCLC cells' proliferation, growth, migration, and invasion but inhibited their apoptosis, while down-regulating LINC00638 led to the opposite. miR-541-3p might be an underlying target of LINC00638, which targeted IRS1, inhibited NSCLC progression, and reversed the carcinogenic effects of LINC00638. Mechanistically, LINC00638/miR-541-3p regulated the IRS1/phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling pathway. Repressing IRS1/2 using its inhibitor NT157 repressed LINC00638-mediated oncogenic effects.

Conclusion

LINC00638 may function as an oncogene in NSCLC by modulating the miR-541-3p/IRS1/PI3K/Akt axis.

[An analysis of the relationship between genetic factors and the risk of schizophrenia]

The etiology and pathogenesis of schizophrenia remain poorly understood, but it has been established that the contribution of heredity to the development of the disease is about 80-85%. Over the past decade, significant progress has been made in the search for specific genetic variants associated with the development of schizophrenia. The review discusses the results of modern large-scale studies aimed at searching for genetic associations with schizophrenia: genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and the search for rare variants (mutations or copy number variations, CNV), including the use of whole exome sequencing. We synthesize data on currently known genes that are significantly associated with schizophrenia and discuss their biological functions in order to identify the main molecular pathways involved in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia.

Perspectives of using microRNA-loaded nanocarriers for epigenetic reprogramming of drug resistant colorectal cancers

Epigenetic regulation by microRNAs (miRs) demonstrated a promising therapeutic potential of these molecules to regulate genetic activity in different cancers, including colorectal cancers (CRCs). The RNA-based therapy does not change genetic codes in tumor cells but can silence oncogenes and/or reactivate inhibited tumor suppressor genes. In many cancers, specific miRs were shown to promote or stop tumor progression. Among confirmed and powerful epigenetic regulators of colon carcinogenesis and development of resistance are onco-miRs, which include let-7, miR-21, miR-22, miR-23a, miR-27a, miR-34, miR-92, miR-96, miR-125b, miR-135b, miR-182, miR-200c, miR-203, miR-221, miR-421, miR-451, and others. Moreover, various tumor-suppressor miRs (miR-15b-5b, miR-18a, miR-20b, miR-22, miR-96, miR-139-5p, miR-145, miR-149, miR-197, miR-199b, miR-203, miR-214, miR-218, miR-320, miR-375-3p, miR-409-3p, miR-450b-5p, miR-494, miR-577, miR-874, and others) were found silenced in drug-resistant CRCs. Re-expression of tumor suppressor miR is complicated by the chemical nature of miRs that are not long-lasting compounds and require protection from the enzymatic degradation. Several recent studies explored application of miRs using nanocarrier complexes. This study critically describes the most successfully tested nanoparticle complexes used for intracellular delivery of nuclear acids and miRs, including micelles, liposomes, inorganic and polymeric NPs, dendrimers, and aptamers. Nanocarriers shield incorporated miRs and improve the agent stability in circulation. Attachment of antibodies and/or specific peptide or ligands facilitates cell-targeted miR delivery. Addressing in vivo challenges, a broad spectrum of non-toxic materials has been tested and indicated reliable advantages of lipid-based (lipoplexes) and polymer-based liposomes. Recent cutting-edge developments indicated that lipid-based complexes with multiple cargo, including several miRs, are the most effective approach to eradicate drug-resistant tumors. Focusing on CRC-specific miRs, this review provides a guidance and insights towards the most promising direction to achieve dramatic reduction in tumor growth and metastasis using miR-nanocarrier complexes.

Identification of Two Exosomal miRNAs in Circulating Blood of Cancer Patients by Using Integrative Transcriptome and Network Analysis

Exosomes carry molecules of great biological and clinical interest, such as miRNAs. The contents of exosomes vary between healthy controls and cancer patients. Therefore, miRNAs and other molecules transported in exosomes are considered a potential source of diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in cancer. Many miRNAs have been detected in recent years. Consequently, a substantial amount of miRNA-related data comparing patients and healthy individuals is available, which contributes to a better understanding of the initiation, development, malignancy, and metastasis of cancer using non-invasive sampling procedures. However, a re-analysis of available ncRNA data is rare. This study used available data about miRNAs in exosomes comparing healthy individuals and cancer patients to identify possible global changes related to the presence of cancer. A robust transcriptomic analysis identified two common miRNAs (miR-495-3p and miR-543) deregulated in five cancer datasets. They had already been implicated in different cancers but not reported in exosomes circulating in blood. The study also examined their target genes and the implications of these genes for functional processes.

New Frontiers in Peripheral Nerve Regeneration: Concerns and Remedies

Topical advances in studying molecular and cellular mechanisms responsible for regeneration in the peripheral nervous system have highlighted the ability of the nervous system to repair itself. Still, serious injuries represent a challenge for the morphological and functional regeneration of peripheral nerves, calling for new treatment strategies that maximize nerve regeneration and recovery. This review presents the canonical view of the basic mechanisms of nerve regeneration and novel data on the role of exosomes and their transferred microRNAs in intracellular communication, regulation of axonal growth, Schwann cell migration and proliferation, and stromal cell functioning. An integrated comprehensive understanding of the current mechanistic underpinnings will open the venue for developing new clinical strategies to ensure full regeneration in the peripheral nervous system.

LncRNA SNHG20 promotes migration and invasion of ovarian cancer via modulating the microRNA-148a/ROCK1 axis

BACKGROUND

Ovarian cancer (OC) is characterized by early metastasis and poor prognosis, which threatens the health of women worldwide. Small nucleolar RNA host gene 20 (SNHG20), a long noncoding RNA (lncRNA), has been verified to be significantly up-regulated in several tumors, including OC. MicroRNA-148a (miR-148a)/rho-kinase1 (ROCK1) axis plays an important role in the modulation of tumor development. However, whether SNHG20 can regulate OC progression through miR-148a/ROCK1 axis remains unclear. Normal human ovarian epithelial cell line and four OC cell lines were adopted for in vitro experiments. Real-time PCR was performed to assess the levels of SNHG20 and miR-148a. OC cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion and migration were detected using clone formation, flow cytometry, transwell, and wound healing assays, respectively. Tumor xenograft assay was applied to evaluate the effect of SNHG20 on tumor growth in vivo.

RESULTS

Significant higher expression of SNHG20 was observed in OC cell lines. SNHG20 markedly promoted the invasion, migration, proliferation and inhibited the apoptosis of OC cells. SNHG20 enhanced ROCK1 expression by sponging miR-148a, and the direct binding between SNHG20/ROCK1 and miR-148a was identified.

CONCLUSION

SNHG20 promoted invasion and migration of OC via targeting miR-148a/ROCK1 axis. The present research may provide a novel insight for the therapeutic strategies of OC.

Early Induction of Neurotrophin Receptor and miRNA Genes in Mouse Brain after Pentilenetetrazole-Induced Neuronal Activity

Neurotrophin receptors regulate neuronal survival and network formation, as well as synaptic plasticity in the brain via interaction with their ligands. Here, we examined early changes in the expression of neurotrophin receptor genes Ntk1 (TrkA), Ntrk2 (TrkB), Ntrk3 (TrkC), Ngfr (p75NTR) and miRNAs that target theses gens in the mouse brain after induction of seizure activity by pentylenetetrazol. We found that expression of Ntrk3 and Ngfr was upregulated in the cortex and the hippocampus 1-3 hours after the seizures, while Ntrk2 expression increased after 3-6 hours in the anterior cortex and after 1 and 6 hours in the hippocampus. At the same time, the ratio of Bcl-2/Bax signaling proteins increased in the anterior and posterior cortex, but not in the hippocampus, suggesting the activation of anti-apoptotic signaling. Expression of miRNA-9 and miRNA-29a, which were predicted to target Ntrk3, was upregulated in the hippocampus 3 hours after pentylenetetrazol injection. Therefore, early cellular response to seizures in the brain includes induction of the Ntrk2, Ntrk3, Ngfr, miRNA-9, and miRNA-29a expression, as well as activation of Bcl-2 and Bax signaling pathways, which may characterize them as important mediators of neuronal adaptation and survival upon induction of the generalized brain activity.

WISP-3 Stimulates VEGF-C-Dependent Lymphangiogenesis in Human Chondrosarcoma Cells by Inhibiting miR-196a-3p Synthesis

Chondrosarcoma is a malignant bone tumor with high metastatic potential. Lymphangiogenesis is a critical biological step in cancer metastasis. WNT1-inducible signaling pathway protein 3 (WISP-3) regulates angiogenesis and facilitates chondrosarcoma metastasis, but the role of WISP-3 in chondrosarcoma lymphangiogenesis is unclear. In this study, incubation of chondrosarcoma cells with WISP-3 increased the production of VEGF-C, an important lymphangiogenic factor. Conditioned medium from WISP-3-treated chondrosarcoma cells significantly enhanced lymphatic endothelial cell tube formation. WISP-3-induced stimulation of VEGF-C-dependent lymphangiogenesis inhibited miR-196a-3p synthesis in the ERK, JNK, and p38 signaling pathways. This evidence suggests that the WISP-3/VEGF-C axis is worth targeting in the treatment of lymphangiogenesis in human chondrosarcoma.