Impact of MiRSNPs on survival and progression in patients with multiple myeloma undergoing autologous stem cell transplantation

MicroRNAs utilization as effective factors on hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, its outcomes and prognosis; a comprehensive systematic review

INTRODUCTION

The therapeutic method for many malignant and non-malignant diseases is hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), but it is not always fully successful in all patients. Indeed, HSCT can be influenced by a variety of factors. Here we reviewed the effect of microRNAs (miRs) on HSCT-related outcomes, like survival, infections, relapse, engraftment, and so on, systematically.

METHOD

WOS, Scopus, PubMed, Google Scholar, and ProQuest databases were searched. The PRISMA guideline was performed, and 24 studies were included through quality assessment. Classified data extraction was done based on the type of disease.

RESULTS

The systematic review identified 47 miRs effective on HSCT. The role of miRs as tumor suppressors or oncogenes is reported in acute myeloblastic and lymphoblastic leukemia patients undergoing HSCT due to their effects on overall or event-free survival. Additionally, relapse after HSCT in multiple myeloma is correlated with miRs expression. Also, recovery from post-autologous HSCT cytopenia or platelet and neutrophil engraftment can be influenced by miRs. We highlighted here reports on specific miRs.

CONCLUSION

We reported prognostic miRs for in-depth clinical management of the HSCT process and its outcomes. Also, miRs are introduced for the prevention of HSCT-related complications, and future studies are suggested to evaluate personalized medicine's utilization of miRs in therapeutic methods like HSCT in neoplasia.

Ectopic Expression of a Truncated Isoform of Hair Keratin 81 in Breast Cancer Alters Biophysical Characteristics to Promote Metastatic Propensity

Keratins are an integral part of cell structure and function. Here, it is shown that ectopic expression of a truncated isoform of keratin 81 (tKRT81) in breast cancer is upregulated in metastatic lesions compared to primary tumors and patient-derived circulating tumor cells, and is associated with more aggressive subtypes. tKRT81 physically interacts with keratin 18 (KRT18) and leads to changes in the cytosolic keratin intermediate filament network and desmosomal plaque formation. These structural changes are associated with a softer, more elastically deformable cancer cell with enhanced adhesion and clustering ability leading to greater in vivo lung metastatic burden. This work describes a novel biomechanical mechanism by which tKRT81 promotes metastasis, highlighting the importance of the biophysical characteristics of tumor cells.

High serum miR-223-3p expression level predicts complete response and prolonged overall survival in multiple myeloma patients undergoing autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Introduction

AHSCT is the treatment of choice for newly diagnosed patients with transplant-eligible multiple myeloma (MM). However, considerable variability in response to autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) results in only 50% of patients achieving complete response (CR) after AHSCT, which is directly associated with improved progression-free and overall survival (OS). In this study, we aimed to investigate the potential predictive role of selected serum miRNAs in MM patients who underwent AHSCT.

Patients and methods

Serum expression level of 6 miRNAs: miR-221-3p, miR-15b-5p, miR-223-3p, miR-320c, miR-361-3p, and miR-150-5p was evaluated in 51 patients who underwent AHSCT. Blood samples were collected at two time points: before conditioning chemotherapy (T1) and fourteen days after transplant (+14) (T2).

Results

All selected miRNAs significantly changed their expression level across the procedure- two were up-regulated after AHSCT: hsa-miR-320c (FC 1.42, p<0.0001) and hsa-miR-361-3p (FC 1.35, p=0.0168); four were down-regulated: hsa-miR-15b-5p (FC 0.53, p<0.0001), hsa-miR-221-3p (FC 0.78, p=0.0004), hsa-miR-223-3p (FC 0.74, p=0.0015) and hsa-miR-150-5p (FC 0.75, p=0.0080). Notably, before AHSCT, hsa-miR-223-3p was down-regulated in International Staging System (ISS) III patients (FC=0.76, p=0.0155), and hsa-miR-320c was up-regulated (FC=1.27, p=0.0470). These differences became non-significant after AHSCT. Eight (15.69%) patients achieved CR before AHSCT and 17 patients (33.33%) at +100 days after AHSCT. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, achievement of CR after induction and hsa-miR-223-3p at T1 were independent predictors of CR after AHSCT. In multivariate Cox regression analysis, hsa-miR-223-3p at T1 expression level was associated with prolonged OS (HR 0.06, 95%CI: 0.00 - 0.99, p=0.0488).

Conclusion

Serum expression of has-miR-223-3p is a predictor of CR and prolonged OS in MM patients undergoing AHSCT.

The association between microRNA polymorphisms and the risk of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia: A meta-analysis

The aim of this meta-analysis was to determine the relationship between microRNA polymorphisms and the risk of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia comprehensively. PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, Global Index Medicus, Clinicaltrials.gov, ProQuest, and Open Grey databases were used to find relevant papers. Using the STATA 16.0 and CMA 3.0 software, the significance of relationships between microRNA polymorphisms and childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia risk was evaluated using odds ratios (ORs) and 95 % confidence intervals (95 % CIs) for five genetic models. The results of the meta-analysis showed that there was no significant association between the polymorphism of miR-146a rs2910164 and childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia risk in different genetic models. Also, in the sensitivity analysis, removing Xue's study from the analysis indicated that both the homozygote and recessive models are significantly affected. Additionally, there was a statistically significant relationship between the polymorphisms of pri-miR-34b/c rs4938723 (in the homozygote and recessive models) and miR-612 rs12803915 (in the allele and dominant models) and childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia risk. These findings suggest that the rs4938723 and rs12803915 polymorphisms may have a role in the development of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

Mutation in XPO5 causes adult-onset autosomal dominant familial focal segmental glomerulosclerosis

Background

Focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is a histological pathology that characterizes a wide spectrum of diseases. Many genes associated with FSGS have been studied previously, but there are still some FSGS families reported in the literature without the identification of known gene mutations. The aim of this study was to investigate the new genetic cause of adult-onset FSGS.

Methods

This study included 40 FSGS families, 77 sporadic FSGS cases, 157 non-FSGS chronic kidney disease (CKD) families and 195 healthy controls for analyses. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) and Sanger sequencing were performed on probands and family members of all recruited families and sporadic FSGS cases.

Results

Using WES, we have identified a novel heterozygous missense variant (c.T1655C:p.V552A) in exportin 5 gene (XPO5) in two families (FS-133 and CKD-05) affected with FSGS and CKD. Sanger sequencing has confirmed the co-segregation of this identified variant in an autosomal dominant pattern within two families, while this variant was absent in healthy controls. Furthermore, the identified mutation was absent in 195 ethnically matched healthy controls by Sanger sequencing. Subsequently, in silico analysis demonstrated that the identified variant was highly conservative in evolution and likely to be pathogenic.

Conclusions

Our study reports an adult-onset autosomal dominant inheritance of the XPO5 variant in familial FSGS for the first time. Our study expanded the understanding of the genotypic, phenotypic and ethnical spectrum of mutation in this gene.

Current perspectives on interethnic variability in multiple myeloma: Single cell technology, population pharmacogenetics and molecular signal transduction

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This review discusses the emerging single cell technologies and applications in Multiple myeloma (MM), population pharmacogenetics of MM, resistance to chemotherapy, genetic determinants of drug-induced toxicity, molecular signal transduction.

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The role(s) of epigenetics and noncoding RNAs including microRNAs (miRNAs) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) that influence the risk and severity of MM are also discussed.

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It is understood that ethnic component acts as a driver of variable response to chemotherapy in different sub-populations globally.

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This review augments our understanding of genetic variability in ‘myelomagenesis’ and drug-induced toxicity, myeloma microenvironment at the molecular and cellular level, and developing precision medicine strategies to combat this malignancy.

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The emerging single cell technologies hold great promise for enhancing our understanding of MM tumor heterogeneity and clonal diversity.

Multiple myeloma (MM) is an aggressive cancer characterised by malignancy of the plasma cells and a rising global incidence. The gold standard for optimum response is aggressive chemotherapy followed by autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT). However, majority of the patients are above 60 years and this presents the clinician with complications such as ineligibility for ASCT, frailty, drug-induced toxicity and differential/partial response to treatment. The latter is partly driven by heterogenous genotypes of the disease in different subpopulations. In this review, we discuss emerging single cell technologies and applications in MM, population pharmacogenetics of MM, resistance to chemotherapy, genetic determinants of drug-induced toxicity, molecular signal transduction, as well as the role(s) played by epigenetics and noncoding RNAs including microRNAs (miRNAs) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) that influence the risk and severity of the disease. Taken together, our discussions further our understanding of genetic variability in ‘myelomagenesis’ and drug-induced toxicity, augment our understanding of the myeloma microenvironment at the molecular and cellular level and provide a basis for developing precision medicine strategies to combat this malignancy.

KRT81 Knockdown Inhibits Malignant Progression of Melanoma Through Regulating Interleukin-8

KRT81 is involved in carcinogenesis and progression of many types of human cancers. However, little is known about the role of KRT81 in melanoma. In this study, we identified that KRT81 expression is upregulated in melanoma tissues compared with corresponding adjacent nontumor tissues. Overexpression of KRT81 was also found in human melanoma cell lines. Cell functional studies have shown that KRT81 knockdown could inhibit proliferation, colony formation, migration, invasion, and promote apoptosis of A375 cells. Consistently, in vivo tumorigenesis experiments showed that KRT81 knockdown significantly suppressed the growth of xenograft tumors. Moreover, KRT81 knockdown increased the chemosensitivity of A375 cells to DDP. Mechanical exploration revealed that KRT81 knockdown mediated the downregulation of inflammatory cytokine interleukin-8 (IL-8). In conclusion, these findings indicate that downregulation of KRT81 could inhibit progression of melanoma by regulating IL-8. Therefore, KRT81 represents a potential therapeutic target for melanoma therapy.

Genetic polymorphisms of miRNA machinery genes in bicuspid aortic valve and associated aortopathy

Aim: SNPs in miRNA machinery genes may affect miRNA function by impacting their biogenesis. Here, we investigated the association between three SNPs in miRNA machinery genes (DICER rs1057035, DROSHA rs10719 and XPO5 rs11077) and bicuspid aortic valve (BAV). Materials & methods: Three polymorphisms were analyzed in 177 BAV patients and 414 healthy subjects by using a TaqMan^®SNP assay. Results: The frequencies of XPO5 rs11077 genotype were significantly different between BAV patients and controls (p = 0.022). On multivariate logistic regression analysis, the XPO5 rs11077 C allele resulted a significant predictor of BAV (odds ratio_adjusted = 0.65; CI: 0.42-0.98; p = 0.047). Conclusion: The XPO5 rs11077 SNP was associated with a decreased BAV risk supporting the causative role of miRNAs in aortic valve development.

Association between miR-492 rs2289030 G>C and susceptibility to Hirschsprung disease in southern Chinese children

OBJECTIVE

Hirschsprung disease (HSCR) originates from disruption of normal neural crest cell migration, differentiation, and proliferation during the fifth to eighth weeks of gestation. This results in the absence of intestinal ganglion cells in the distal intestinal tract. However, genetic variations affecting embryonic development of intestinal ganglion cells are unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigated the potential value of miR-492 rs2289030 G>C as a marker of susceptibility to HSCR.

METHODS

In this case-control study in southern Chinese children, we collected samples from 1473 controls and 1470 patients with HSCR. TaqMan genotyping of miR-492 rs2289030 G>C was performed by real-time fluorescent quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that there was no significant association between the presence of the miR-492 rs2289030 G>C polymorphism and susceptibility to HSCR by evaluating the values of pooled odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. Similarly, among different HSCR subtypes, rs2289030 G>C was also not associated with HSCR in hierarchical analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that the miR-492 rs2289030 G>C polymorphism is not associated with susceptibility to HSCR in southern Chinese children. These results need to be further confirmed by investigating a more diverse ethnic population of patients with HSCR.

A Polymorphism at the microRNA Binding Site in the 3' Untranslated Region of KRT81 Is Associated with Breast Cancer

Single nucleotide polymorphisms in miRNA binding sites (miR-SNPs) are associated with cancer risk. We assessed the relationship between five miR-SNPs in the 3' untranslated region (3'-UTR) of RYR3 (rs1044129), KIAA0423 (rs1053667), C14orf101 (rs4901706), GOLGA7 (rs11337), and KRT81 (rs3660) and the risk of breast cancer (BC). The CC genotype of rs3660 located in the 3'-UTR of KRT81 was identified for its association with lower BC risk (odds ratio, 0.093; 95% confidence interval, 0.045-0.193; p = 0.000). Immunnochemical analysis and Renilla luciferase reporter assays indicated that the CC genotype of KRT81 was associated with lower expression of KRT81 (p < 0.05). The subsequently functional analysis showed that knockdown the KRT81 could inhibit proliferation and promote apoptosis of the MDA-MB-231 BC cells (p < 0.05) with monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) deregulation. Meanwhile, KRT81 overexpression could promote the proliferation and inhibit the apoptosis of MCF-7 BC cells (p < 0.05). Our data demonstrated that the KRT81 expressional change modulated by rs3660 miR-SNP could modify the carcinogenesis of BC, thereby KRT81 would be a new target for BC treatment.

Roles of noncoding RNAs in drug resistance in multiple myeloma

Despite the administration of new effective drugs in recent years, relapse and drug resistance are still the main obstacles in multiple myeloma (MM) treatment, making MM an incurable disease. To overcome drug resistance in MM, it is critical to understand the underlying mechanisms of malfunctioning gene expression and develop novel targeted therapies. During the past few decades, with the discovery and characterization of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), the landscape of dysregulated ncRNAs of cancers as well as their biological and pathobiological functions in tumorigenesis and drug resistance have been recognized. Studies about ncRNAs improved the understanding of variations of drug response among individuals at a level distinguished from genetic polymorphism, and provided with new orientations for targeted therapies. In this review, we will summarize the emerging impact and underlying molecular mechanisms of the most relevant classes of ncRNAs in drug resistance of MM, and discuss the potential as well as strategies of treating ncRNAs as therapeutic targets.

Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms in XPO5 are Associated with Noise-Induced Hearing Loss in a Chinese Population

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to investigate the correlation between single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in 3′UTR of XPO5 gene and the occurrence of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), and to further explore the regulatory mechanism of miRNAs in NIHL on XPO5 gene and the occurrence of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), and to further explore the regulatory mechanism of miRNAs in NIHL on

Methods

We conducted a case-control study involving 1040 cases and 1060 controls. The effects of SNPs on XPO5 gene and the occurrence of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), and to further explore the regulatory mechanism of miRNAs in NIHL on

Results

We genotyped four SNPs (rs2257082, rs11077, rs7755135, and rs1106841) in the XPO5 gene and the occurrence of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), and to further explore the regulatory mechanism of miRNAs in NIHL on XPO5 gene and the occurrence of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), and to further explore the regulatory mechanism of miRNAs in NIHL on XPO5 gene and the occurrence of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), and to further explore the regulatory mechanism of miRNAs in NIHL on XPO5. Conclusion. The genetic polymorphism, rs11077, within XPO5 is associated with the risk of noise-induced hearing loss in a Chinese population.XPO5 gene and the occurrence of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), and to further explore the regulatory mechanism of miRNAs in NIHL on

MiR-19b and miR-20a suppress apoptosis, promote proliferation and induce tumorigenicity of multiple myeloma cells by targeting PTEN

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a common hematological malignancy that is often associated with osteolytic lesions, anemia and renal impairment. Deregulation of miRNA has been implicated in the pathogenesis of MM. It was found in our study that miR-19b and miR-20a as members of crucial oncogene miR-17-92 cluster were differentially expressed between patients with MM and normal controls by genechip microarray, and this result was further confirmed in sera of patients with MM by qRT-PCR. The functional effect of miR-19b/20a was analyzed and results showed that miR-19b/20a promoted cell proliferation and migration, inhibited cell apoptosis and altered cell cycle in MM cells. PTEN protein expression was reduced after transfection of miR-19b/20a, suggesting that PTEN was a direct target of miR-19b/20a. In addition, over-expression of miR-19b/20a reversed the anti-proliferation and pro-apoptosis effect of PTEN in MM cells. Finally, our in vivo experiment demonstrated that lentivirus-mediated delivery of miR-20a promoted tumor growth in murine xenograft model of MM, which provide evidence that miR-20a inhibitor exerts therapeutic activity in preclinical models and supports a framework for the development of miR-19b/20a-based treatment strategies for MM patients.

Factors Regulating microRNA Expression and Function in Multiple Myeloma

Intensive research has been undertaken during the last decade to identify the implication of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the pathogenesis of multiple myeloma (MM). The expression profiling of miRNAs in MM has provided relevant information, demonstrating different patterns of miRNA expression depending on the genetic abnormalities of MM and a key role of some miRNAs regulating critical genes associated with MM pathogenesis. However, the underlying causes of abnormal expression of miRNAs in myeloma cells remain mainly elusive. The final expression of the mature miRNAs is subject to multiple regulation mechanisms, such as copy number alterations, CpG methylation or transcription factors, together with impairment in miRNA biogenesis and differences in availability of the mRNA target sequence. In this review, we summarize the available knowledge about the factors involved in the regulation of miRNA expression and functionality in MM.

Involving the microRNA Targetome in Esophageal-Cancer Development and Behavior

Esophageal cancer (EC) is the eighth most common and sixth leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the world. Despite breakthroughs in EC diagnosis and treatment, patients with complete pathologic response after being submitted to chemoradiotherapy are still submitted to surgery, despite its high morbidity. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in miRNA, miRNA-binding sites, and in its biogenesis pathway genes can alter miRNA expression patterns, thereby influencing cancer risk and prognosis. In this review, we systematized the information available regarding the impact of these miR-SNPs in EC development and prognosis. We found 34 miR-SNPs that were associated with EC risk. Despite the promising applicability of these miR-SNPs as disease biomarkers, they still lack validation in non-Asian populations. Moreover, there should be more pathway-based approaches to evaluate the cumulative effect of multiple unfavorable genotypes and, consequently, identify miR-SNPs signatures capable of predicting EC therapy response and prognosis.

XPO5 genetic polymorphisms in cancer risk and prognosis

miRNAs are small noncoding RNA molecules that have a very important role in gene expression regulation and, therefore, in cell homeostasis. SNPs in certain miRNA-related genes have been shown to influence cancer risk and prognosis. miRNA cellular processing is complex and involves multiple proteins. XPO5 is a key factor in this process as it is responsible for the nuclear export of the precursor pre-miRNA to the cytoplasm, where it will be further processed to its final miRNA conformation in order to be loaded to RNA inducing silencing complex to exert its regulatory effect. SNPs in miRNA machinery related genes have previously been shown to influence carcinogenesis, but the role of XPO5 SNPs in its expression and function is not yet fully understood. In our review, we elaborate comprehensively on the role of XPO5 and how polymorphisms have been shown to influence cancer risk and prognosis to date.

The Role of Exportin-5 in MicroRNA Biogenesis and Cancer

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are conserved small non-coding RNAs that play an important role in the regulation of gene expression and participate in a variety of biological processes. The biogenesis of miRNAs is tightly controlled at multiple steps, such as transcription of miRNA genes, processing by Drosha and Dicer, and transportation of precursor miRNAs (pre-miRNAs) from the nucleus to the cytoplasm by exportin-5 (XPO5). Given the critical role of nuclear export of pre-miRNAs in miRNA biogenesis, any alterations of XPO5, resulting from either genetic mutation, epigenetic change, abnormal expression level or posttranslational modification, could affect miRNA expression and thus have profound effects on tumorigenesis. Importantly, XPO5 phosphorylation by ERK kinase and its cis/trans isomerization by the prolyl isomerase Pin1 impair XPO5′s nucleo-to-cytoplasmic transport ability of pre-miRNAs, leading to downregulation of mature miRNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma. In this review, we focus on how XPO5 transports pre-miRNAs in the cells and summarize the dysregulation of XPO5 in human tumors.

Correlations of pri-Let-7 gene polymorphisms with the recurrence and metastasis of primary liver cancer after transcatheter arterial chemoembolization

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within miRNAs could change their production or affinity with target genes, thus leading to malignant diseases. This study aims to explore correlations of pri-let-7 gene polymorphisms with the recurrence and metastasis of primary liver cancer (PLC) after a transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) surgical procedure.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 302 PLC patients treated with hepatoprotective therapies after TACE were selected to and assigned into recurrent and non-recurrent groups. Genotypes of pri-let-7a-1 rs1073997 and pri-let-7a-2 rs629367 were analyzed by Taqman assay. The relationship between PLC with the mutation of each SNP was determined by a multivariate logistic regression analyses. Moreover, the association between survival and pri-let-7 gene polymorphisms was analyzed by the Kaplan-Meier method. The Progress Free Survival (PFS) curve, correlation of pri-let-7a-1 rs629367 with alcohol, HBsAg-positive and TNM III/IV were analyzed by a stratified analysis. Additionally, the risk factors for the recurrence of PLC were analyzed by a multivariate logistic regression analyses.

RESULTS

Results showed that the allelic frequency of the pri-let-7a-2 rs629367 SNP in the recurrent group was higher than that of the non-recurrent group. The distribution of CC genotype was significantly higher than non-CC genotype in the recurrent group. Alcohol consumption, positive expression of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), AC + CC genotype of rs629367 and TNM III/IV were determined to be the risk factors for the recurrence and metastasis of PLC after TACE. We found a positive correlation between pri-let-7a-2 rs629367 with alcohol consumption, HBsAg-positive and TNM III/IV. The median PFS of HBsAg-positive and TNM III/IV patients with the AC + CC genotype of rs629367 was shorter than those with non-AC + CC genotype.

CONCLUSION

Our findings provide evidence that patients with PLC that carry the AC + CC genotype of pri-let-7a-2 rs629367 after TACE have a worse prognosis than those who carry the AA genotype. We speculate that the pri-let-7 rs629367 SNP could be used as a predictor of recurrence and metastasis after TACE for patients with PLC.

Induction of exportin-5 expression during melanoma development supports the cellular behavior of human malignant melanoma cells

Regulation of gene expression via microRNAs is known to promote the development of many types of cancer. In melanoma, miRNAs are globally up-regulated, and alterations of miRNA-processing enzymes have already been identified. However, mis-regulation of miRNA transport has not been analyzed in melanoma yet. We hypothesized that alterations in miRNA transport disrupt miRNA processing. Therefore, we investigated whether the pre-miRNA transporter Exportin-5 (XPO5) was involved in altered miRNA maturation and functional consequences in melanoma. We found that XPO5 is significantly over-expressed in melanoma compared with melanocytes. We showed enhanced XPO5 mRNA stability in melanoma cell lines which likely contributes to up-regulated XPO5 protein expression. In addition, we identified MEK signaling as a regulator of XPO5 expression in melanoma. Knockdown of XPO5 expression in melanoma cells led to decreased mature miRNA levels and drastic functional changes. Our data revealed that aberrant XPO5 expression is important for the maturation of miRNAs and the malignant behavior of melanoma cells. We suggest that the high abundance of XPO5 in melanoma leads to enhanced survival, proliferation and metastasis and thereby supports the aggressiveness of melanoma.

Karyopherins in cancer

Malfunction of nuclear-cytoplasmic transport contributes to many diseases including cancer. Defective nuclear transport leads to changes in both the physiological levels and temporal-spatial location of tumor suppressors, proto-oncogenes and other macromolecules that in turn affect the tumorigenesis process and drug sensitivity of cancer cells. In addition to their nuclear transport functions in interphase, Karyopherin nuclear transport receptors also have important roles in mitosis and chromosomal integrity. Therefore, alterations in the expressions or regular functions of Karyopherins may have substantial effects on the course and outcome of diseases.

Significance of microRNA-related variants in susceptibility to recurrence of oropharyngeal cancer patients after definitive radiotherapy

Common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in miRNAs may affect miRNA functions and their target expression and thus may affect biological activities and cancer etiology as well as prognosis. Thus, we determined whether the 9 SNPs in microRNAs modify the risk of recurrence of squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx (SCCOP) in a cohort of 1008 patients. The log-rank test and multivariate Cox models were used to evaluate the associations. We found that the SNPs in the miRNA146, miRNA196, and Gemin3 were associated with a significantly reduced and increased risk of SCCOP recurrence after multivariate adjustment (aHR, 0.6, 95%CI, 0.4-0.9, aHR, 2.1, 95%CI, 1.6-2.8, and aHR, 0.6, 95%CI, 0.5-0.9, respectively). Furthermore, the similar effect of these 3 SNPs on SCCOP recurrence risk was found in HPV-positive SCCOP patients only. However, no significant associations were found for other SNPs. To evaluate the aggregate effects of these SNPs, we performed a combined risk genotype analysis. We found that, compared with the low-risk reference group with less than 4 risk genotypes, the medium-risk group with 4 or 5 risk genotypes exhibited a 1.7-fold (1.2-2.4) increased risk whereas the high-risk group with more than 5 risk genotypes exhibited a 3.0-fold (1.7-4.2) increased risk (P_trend < 0.001). Such combined effects were particularly pronounced in HPV-positive SCCOP patients. Taken together, this is the first study with a large cohort of SCCOP patients showing that miRNA-related genetic variants may modify risk of SCCOP recurrence individually and jointly. Larger studies are needed to validate these results.

Genetic polymorphisms of microRNA machinery genes predict overall survival of esophageal squamous carcinoma

BACKGROUND

MicroRNA (miRNA)-related single nucleotide polymorphisms (miR-SNPs) in miRNA processing machinery genes are implicated in carcinogenesis, as they change the expression profiles of miRNA. Six miR-SNPs in miRNA processing machinery genes, including Dicer (rs3742330), RAN (rs14035), XPO5 (rs11077), TNRC6B (rs9623117), GEMIN3 (rs197412), and GEMIN4 (rs2740348), were evaluated for their association with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC).

METHODS

The miR-SNP of the miRNA processing genes were genotyped using the polymerase chain reaction-ligase detection reaction (PCR-LDR) assay, while the XPO5 expression levels in ESCC tissues were measured by immunochemistry methods.

RESULTS

Patients carrying the rs11077 AA allele exhibited a significantly increased lifespan than AC+CC carriers, as determined by univariate and multivariate analyses (relative risk: 2.490; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.225-5.058; P=.012). Furthermore, the rs11077 AA genotype displayed a trend for high XPO5 expression in ESCC tissues by immunochemistry analysis, and these high XPO5 expression levels were also associated with high survival rates among ESCC patients.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggested that the miRNA machinery gene expression-associated miR-SNPs would modify cancer outcomes; in this light, XPO5 may be an important new target for ESCC therapy.

Polymorphisms at microRNA binding sites of Ara-C and anthracyclines-metabolic pathway genes are associated with outcome of acute myeloid leukemia patients

Background

Gene polymorphisms at microRNA-binding sites (poly-miRTS) may affect gene transcription and expression through miRNA regulation, which is associated with cancer susceptibility, sensitivity to chemotherapy and prognosis. This study investigated the association between poly-miRTS of Ara-C/anthracycline metabolic pathways genes and the outcome of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in Chinese patients after Ara-C-based chemotherapy.

Methods

A total of 17 poly-miRTS were selected from the SNPinfo Web Server and genotyped in 206 Chinese Han non-FAB-M3 AML patients using the SEQUENOM Mass-ARRAY system.

Results

Among these 17 poly-miRTS, five Ara-C metabolic gene single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs, NT5C2 rs10786736 and rs8139, SLC29A1 rs3734703, DCTD rs7278, and RRM1 rs1042919) were identified to significantly associate with complete AML remission and/or overall and relapse-free survival (OS and RFS, respectively), and four anthracycline-metabolic gene SNPs (ABCC1 rs3743527, rs212091, and rs212090 and CBR1 rs9024) were significantly associated with chemotherapy-related toxicities. Moreover, SLC29A1 rs3734703 was shown to associate with both chemotherapy response and survival (adjusted OR 2.561 in the overdominant model; adjusted HR 2.876 for OS and 2.357 for RFS in the dominant model).

Conclusions

The data from the current study demonstrated that the poly-miRTS of Ara-C/anthracyclines metabolic genes predicted the sensitivity and side effects of AML to Ara-C-based chemotherapy and patient survival. Further study will confirm them as biomarkers for AML patients after Ara-C-based chemotherapy.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12967-017-1339-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

microRNAs in Cancer Susceptibility

microRNAs (miRNAs) are a small RNA species without protein-coding potential. However, they are key modulators of protein translation. Many studies have linked miRNAs with cancer initiation, progression, diagnosis, and prognosis, and recent studies have also linked them with cancer etiology and susceptibility, especially through single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). This review discusses some of the recent advances in miRNA-SNP literature-including SNPs in miRNA genes, miRNA target sites, and the processing machinery. In addition, we highlight some emerging areas of interest, including isomiRs and non-3'UTR focused miRNA-binding mechanisms that could provide further novel insight into the relationship between miR-SNPs and cancer. Finally, we note that additional epidemiological and experimental research is needed to close the gap in our understanding of the genotype-phenotype relationship between miRNA-SNPs and cancer.

Validation of microRNA pathway polymorphisms in esophageal adenocarcinoma survival

Polymorphisms in miRNA and miRNA pathway genes have been previously associated with cancer risk and outcome, but have not been studied in esophageal adenocarcinoma outcomes. Here, we evaluate candidate miRNA pathway polymorphisms in esophageal adenocarcinoma prognosis and attempt to validate them in an independent cohort of esophageal adenocarcinoma patients. Among 231 esophageal adenocarcinoma patients of all stages/treatment plans, 38 candidate genetic polymorphisms (17 biogenesis, 9 miRNA targets, 5 pri-miRNA, 7 pre-miRNA) were genotyped and analyzed. Cox proportional hazard models adjusted for sociodemographic and clinicopathological covariates helped assess the association of genetic polymorphisms with overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Significantly associated polymorphisms were then evaluated in an independent cohort of 137 esophageal adenocarcinoma patients. Among the 231 discovery cohort patients, 86% were male, median diagnosis age was 64 years, 34% were metastatic at diagnosis, and median OS and PFS were 20 and 12 months, respectively. GEMIN3 rs197412 (aHR = 1.37, 95%CI: [1.04-1.80]; P = 0.02), hsa-mir-124-1 rs531564 (aHR = 0.60, 95% CI: [0.53-0.90]; P = 0.05), and KIAA0423 rs1053667 (aHR = 0.51, 95% CI: [0.28-0.96]; P = 0.04) were found associated with OS. Furthermore, GEMIN3 rs197412 (aHR = 1.33, 95% CI: [1.03-1.74]; P = 0.03) and KRT81 rs3660 (aHR = 1.29, 95% CI: [1.01-1.64]; P = 0.04) were found associated with PFS. Although none of these polymorphisms were significant in the second cohort, hsa-mir-124-1 rs531564 and KIAA0423 rs1053667 had trends in the same direction; when both cohorts were combined together, GEMIN3 rs197412, hsa-mir-124-1 rs531564, and KIAA0423 rs1053667 remained significantly associated with OS. We demonstrate the association of multiple miRNA pathway polymorphisms with esophageal adenocarcinoma prognosis in a discovery cohort of patients, which did not validate in a separate cohort but had consistent associations in the pooled cohort. Larger studies are required to confirm/validate the prognostic value of these polymorphisms in esophageal adenocarcinoma.

Association between Polymorphism of Exportin-5 and Susceptibility to Lead Poisoning in a Chinese Population

Lead (Pb) is one of the major contaminants in many industries, and imposes hazardous effects on multiple human organs and systems. Studies have shown that lead is able to induce the alteration of microRNA (miRNA) expression in serum and organs. In this study we investigated whether polymorphisms in miRNA-regulating genes were associated with the risk of lead exposure. We genotyped seven single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 113 lead-sensitive and 113 lead-resistant lead-related Chinese workers by Taqman analysis. The lead-sensitive group showed a significantly higher blood lead level (BLL) than the resistant group based on unconditional logistic regression results. One SNP in XPO5 extron (rs2257082) was significantly associated with lead-poisoning (p = 0.022, odds rate (OR) = 1.63, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.07-2.47 in the C allele compared to the T allele). There were no significant associations between the other six SNPs and the blood lead levels. Therefore, polymorphism rs2257082 could be used to distinguish lead-resistant and lead-susceptible populations, and to develop more specific and accurate preventions.

Dysregulated MicroRNA Expression Profiles and Potential Cellular, Circulating and Polymorphic Biomarkers in Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

A large number of studies have focused on identifying molecular biomarkers, including microRNAs (miRNAs) to aid in the diagnosis and prognosis of the most common subtypes of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma and Follicular Lymphoma. NHL is difficult to diagnose and treat with many cases becoming resistant to chemotherapy, hence the need to identify improved biomarkers to aid in both diagnosis and treatment modalities. This review summarises more recent research on the dysregulated miRNA expression profiles found in NHL, as well as the regulatory role and biomarker potential of cellular and circulating miRNAs found in tissue and serum, respectively. In addition, the emerging field of research focusing on miRNA single nucleotide polymorphisms (miRSNPs) in genes of the miRNA biogenesis pathway, in miRNA genes themselves, and in their target sites may provide new insights on gene expression changes in these genes. These miRSNPs may impact miRNA networks and have been shown to play a role in a host of different cancer types including haematological malignancies. With respect to NHL, a number of SNPs in miRNA-binding sites in target genes have been shown to be associated with overall survival.

MiRNAs and miRNA Polymorphisms Modify Drug Response

Differences in expression of drug response-related genes contribute to inter-individual variation in drugs’ biological effects. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs emerging as new players in epigenetic regulation of gene expression at post-transcriptional level. MiRNAs regulate the expression of genes involved in drug metabolism, drug transportation, drug targets and downstream signal molecules directly or indirectly. MiRNA polymorphisms, the genetic variations affecting miRNA expression and/or miRNA-mRNA interaction, provide a new insight into the understanding of inter-individual difference in drug response. Here, we provide an overview of the recent progress in miRNAs mediated regulation of biotransformation enzymes, drug transporters, and nuclear receptors. We also describe the implications of miRNA polymorphisms in cancer chemotherapy response.

Association of Polymorphic Variants of miRNA Processing Genes with Larynx Cancer Risk in a Polish Population

Laryngeal cancer (LC) is one of the most prevalent types of head and neck cancer. An increasing interest has been focused on the role of microRNA (miRNAs) in LC development. The study group consisted of 135 larynx cancer patients and 170 cancer-free individuals. Nine polymorphisms of pre-miRNA processing genes, DROSHA (rs6877842), DGCR8 (rs3757, rs417309, and rs1640299), RAN (rs14035), XPO5 (rs11077), DICER1 (rs13078 and rs3742330) and TARBP2 (rs784567), were performed by TaqMan SNP Genotyping Assay. It was found that the frequency of the GT and the TT polymorphic variants of XPO5 gene were higher in LC patients than in controls (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.000183, resp.). In turn, the frequency of the CT genotype of RAN gene was higher in controls than in LC patients (p < 0.0001). The TT and the AG of DICER1 gene (p = 0.034697 for rs13078 and p = 0.0004 for rs3742330) as well as the AG and the GG genotypes of TARBP2 gene (p = 0.008335 and p < 0.0001, resp.) were associated with higher risk of LC occurrence. Our data suggested that polymorphisms of miRNA processing genes might be useful as predictive factors for the LC development.

Bioinformatics prioritization of SNPs perturbing microRNA regulation of hematological malignancy-implicated genes

The contribution of microRNAs (miRNAs) to cancer has been extensively investigated and it became obvious that a strict regulation of miRNA-mRNA regulatory network is crucial for safeguarding cell health. Apart from the direct impact of miRNA dysregulation in cancer pathogenesis, genetic variations in miRNAs are likely to disrupt miRNA-target interaction. Indeed, many evidences suggested that SNPs within miRNA regulome are associated with the development of different hematological malignancies. However, a full catalog of SNPs within miRNAs target sites of genes relevant to hematopoiesis and hematological malignancies is still lacking. Accordingly, we aimed to systematically identify and characterize such SNPs and provide a prioritized list of most potentially disrupting SNPs. Although in the present study we did not address the functional significance of these potential disturbing variants, we believe that our compiled results will be valuable for researchers interested in determining the role of target-SNPs in the development of hematological malignancies.

Single nucleotide polymorphisms of microRNA processing genes and outcome of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

Objective

microRNA (miRNA)-related single nucleotide polymorphisms (miR-SNPs) in miRNA-processing machinery genes can affect cancer risk, treatment efficacy, and patients’ prognosis by mediating the expression of targeted genes. Five miR-SNPs in miRNA processing machinery genes, including XPO5 (rs11077), RAN (rs14035), TNRC6B (rs9623117), GEMIN3 (rs197412), and GEMIN4 (rs2740348), in 168 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) patients were evaluated for their association with the cancer risk and outcomes associated with NHL.

Materials and methods

miR-SNPs were genotyped using polymerase chain reaction–ligase detection reaction. The survival curves were calculated using the Kaplan–Meier method, and comparisons between the curves were made using the log-rank test. Multivariate survival analysis was performed using a Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

Among the five SNPs, only rs197412 located in the coding region of the GEMIN3 gene was identified; it was independently associated with overall survival in NHL patients, as determined by multivariate analysis (relative risk: 1.649; 95% confidence interval: 1.110–2.449; P=0.013). The prognostic value of this miR-SNP in patient outcomes was also observed in the diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and T-cell lymphoma NHL subtypes.

Conclusion

Our results suggested that the specific genetic variants observed in the miRNA machinery genes may affect NHL survival.

A genetic variation in microRNA target site of KRT81 gene is associated with survival in early-stage non-small-cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have a key role in carcinogenesis through negative regulation of their target genes. Therefore, genetic variations in miRNAs or their target sites may affect miRNA-mRNA interactions, thereby result in altered expression of target genes. This study was conducted to investigate the associations between single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) located in the miRNA target sites (poly-miRTSs) and survival of patients with early-stage non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

METHODS

Using public SNP database and miRNA target sites prediction program, 354 poly-miRTSs were selected for genotyping. Among these, 154 SNPs applicable to Sequenom's MassARRAY platform were investigated in 357 patients. A replication study was carried out on an independent patient population (n = 479). Renilla luciferase assay and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction were conducted to examine functional relevance of potentially functional poly-miRTSs.

RESULTS

Of the 154 SNPs analyzed in a discovery set, 14 SNPs were significantly associated with survival outcomes. Among these, KRT81 rs3660G>C was found to be associated with survival outcomes in the validation cohort. In the combined analysis, patients with the rs3660 GC + CC genotype had a significantly better overall survival compared with those with GG genotype [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) for OS, 0.65; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.50-0.85; P = 0.001]. An increased expression of the reporter gene for the C allele of rs3660 compared with the G allele was observed by luciferase assay. Consistently, the C allele was associated with higher relative expression level of KRT81 in tumor tissues.

CONCLUSION

The rs3660G>C affects KRT81 expression and thus influences survival in early-stage NSCLC. The analysis of the rs3660G>C polymorphism may be useful to identify patients at high risk of a poor disease outcome.

Single-nucleotide polymorphisms of microRNA processing machinery genes are associated with risk for gastric cancer

Recent studies demonstrate that microRNA-related single-nucleotide polymorphisms (miR-SNPs) are associated with the development of numerous human cancers. In this study, we investigated six miR-SNPs in microRNA processing machinery genes, including rs11077 of the XPO5 gene, rs14035 of the RAN gene, rs3742330 of the Dicer gene, rs9623117 of the TNRC6B gene, rs197412 of the GEMIN3 gene, and rs2740348 of the GEMIN4 gene, in gastric cancer patients and subsequently evaluated their potential roles in gastric cancer risk in a case control study. The results indicate that the C/C genotype of rs14035 from RAN, the A/A genotype of rs3742330 from Dicer, and the T/T genotype of rs9623117 from TNRC6B are significantly associated with gastric cancer risk. In conclusion, these miR-SNPs can be used as predictive biomarkers in gastric cancer.

Single-nucleotide polymorphisms of microRNA processing machinery genes and risk of colorectal cancer

Objective

MicroRNA (miRNA)-related single-nucleotide polymorphisms (miR-SNPs) in miRNA processing machinery genes can affect cancer risk, treatment efficacy, and patient prognosis. We genotyped 6 miR-SNPs of miRNA processing machinery genes including XPO5 (rs11077), RAN (rs14035), Dicer (rs3742330), TNRC6B (rs9623117), GEMIN3 (rs197412), and GEMIN4 (rs2740348) in a case-control study to evaluate their impact on colorectal cancer (CRC) risk.

Materials and methods

miR-SNPs were genotyped using the polymerase chain reaction– ligase detection reaction. The χ² test was used to analyze dichotomous values, such as the presence or absence of any individual SNP in CRC patients and healthy controls.

Results

Two of these SNPs were identified for their association with cancer risk in the Dicer and GEMIN3 genes. The AA allele of rs3742330 located in the Dicer gene exhibited a significantly increased risk of CRC (odds ratio, 2.11; 95% confidence interval: 1.33–3.34; P=0.001); the TT allele of rs197412 located in GEMIN3 also exhibited a significantly increased risk of CRC (odds ratio, 1.68; 95% confidence interval: 1.07–2.65; P=0.024).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the specific genetic variants in miRNA machinery genes may affect CRC susceptibility.

MicroRNA-binding site polymorphisms in hematological malignancies

Dysregulation of microRNA networks has been implicated in hematological malignancies. One of the reasons for disturbed miRNA-mediated regulation are polymorphisms in miRNA-binding sites (miRSNPs), which alter the strength of miRNA interaction with target transcripts. In the recent years the first findings of miRSNPs associated with risk and prognosis in hematological malignancies have been reported. From the studies described in this review miRSNPs not only emerge as novel markers of risk and prognosis but can also lead to better understanding of the role of miRNAs in regulating gene expression in health and disease.

MicroRNA polymorphisms as markers of risk, prognosis and treatment response in hematological malignancies

MicroRNA dysregulation is a common event in hematological malignancies. Apart from genomic and epigenetic alterations, miRNA networks may be disturbed by polymorphisms in the miRNA regulatory pathway (miRSNPs). In this review we provide an overview of three categories of miRSNPs: (1) SNPs in genes involved in miRNA biogenesis and processing; (2) SNPs in miRNA genes; and (3) SNPs in miRNA binding sites in target genes and discuss their potential role as markers of disease risk, prognosis and treatment response in hematological cancers. Although so far only the tip of the iceberg has been touched, studies of polymorphisms in the miRNA regulatory pathways have already provided some clues for the mechanisms of miRNA dysregulation in cancer and open new perspectives in the management of hematological malignancies.

MicroRNA: important player in the pathobiology of multiple myeloma

Recent studies have revealed a pivotal role played by a class of small, noncoding RNAs, microRNA (miRNA), in multiple myeloma (MM), a plasma cell (PC) malignancy causing significant morbidity and mortality. Deregulated miRNA expression in patient's PCs and plasma has been associated with tumor progression, molecular subtypes, clinical staging, prognosis, and drug response in MM. A number of important oncogenic and tumor suppressor miRNAs have been discovered to regulate important genes and pathways such as p53 and IL6-JAK-STAT signaling. miRNAs may also form complex regulatory circuitry with genetic and epigenetic machineries, the deregulation of which could lead to malignant transformation and progression. The translational potential of miRNAs in the clinic is being increasingly recognized that they could represent novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets. This review comprehensively summarizes current progress in delineating the roles of miRNAs in MM pathobiology and management.

MicroRNA Machinery Genes as Novel Biomarkers for Cancer

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) directly and indirectly affect tumorigenesis. To be able to perform their myriad roles, miRNA machinery genes, such as Drosha, DGCR8, Dicer1, XPO5, TRBP, and AGO2, must generate precise miRNAs. These genes have specific expression patterns, protein-binding partners, and biochemical capabilities in different cancers. Our preliminary analysis of data from The Cancer Genome Atlas consortium on multiple types of cancer revealed significant alterations in these miRNA machinery genes. Here, we review their biological structures and functions with an eye toward understanding how they could serve as cancer biomarkers.

Single nucleotide polymorphisms of microRNA processing machinery genes and outcome of hepatocellular carcinoma

MicroRNA (miRNA)-related single nucleotide polymorphisms (miR-SNPs) can affect cancer development, treatment efficacy and patients prognosis. We examined 6 miR-SNPs in miRNA processing machinery genes including exportin 5 (XPO5) (rs11077), Ran-GTPase (RAN) (rs14035), Dicer (rs3742330), Trinucleotide Repeat Containing 6B (TNRC6B) (rs9623117), GEMIN3 (rs197412), GEMIN4 (rs2740348) in 108 surgically resected HCC patients and evaluated the impact of these miR-SNPs on HCC outcome. Among the 6 SNPs, only the A/A genotype of rs11077 located in XPO5 3'UTR was identified to associated independently with worse survival in HCC patients by multivariate analysis with relative risk, 0.395; 95% CI, 0.167-0.933; p = 0.034. This is the first study reporting that polymorphisms related to miRSNPs have prognostic value in hepatocellular carcinoma and identify the A/A genotype of rs11077 SNP site located in XPO5 3'UTR can help to predict worse prognosis in patients.

MicroRNA gene polymorphisms and environmental factors increase patient susceptibility to hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Micro RNAs (miRNAs) are small RNA fragments that naturally exist in the human body. Through various physiological mechanisms, miRNAs can generate different functions for regulating RNA protein levels and balancing abnormalities. Abnormal miRNA expression has been reported to be highly related to several diseases and cancers. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in miRNAs have been reported to increase patient susceptibility and affect patient prognosis and survival. We adopted a case-control research design to verify the relationship between miRNAs and hepatocellular carcinoma.

METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

A total of 525 subjects, including 377 controls and 188 hepatocellular carcinoma patients, were selected. Polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) and real-time PCR were used to analyze miRNA146a (rs2910164), miRNA149 (rs2292832), miRNA196 (rs11614913), and miRNA499 (rs3746444) genetic polymorphisms between the control group and the case group. The results indicate that people who carry the rs3746444 CT or CC genotypes may have a significantly increased susceptibility to hepatocellular carcinoma (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.84, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.88-4.30). In addition, when combined with environmental risk factors, such as smoking and alcohol consumption, interaction effects were observed between gene polymorphisms and environmental factors (odds ratio [OR] = 4.69, 95% CI = 2.52-8.70; AOR = 3.38, 95% CI = 1.68-6.80).

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that a significant association exists between miRNA499 SNPs and hepatocellular carcinoma. Gene-environment interactions of miRNA499 polymorphisms, smoking, and alcohol consumption might alter hepatocellular carcinoma susceptibility.

A miR-SNP of the KRT81 gene is associated with the prognosis of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

MicroRNA (miRNA), which plays an important role in tumorigenesis, can regulate post-transcriptional gene expression by binding to the 3' untranslated regions (3'-UTRs) of messenger RNAs and repressing its translation. Several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are considered to have significant impacts on susceptibility of the role these genetic polymorphisms in development of carcinogenesis through that mechanism. But few of them focus their impact on non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). Therefore, we conducted this study to investigate the associations between the genetic variants and cancer risk or cancer outcome. MiRNA-related single nucleotide polymorphism (miR-SNP) sites rs3660 of KRT81, rs1044129 of RYR3, rs4901706 of f101, and rs1053667 of KIAA0423 were selected and analyzed in 210 patients in NHL to evaluate their association with cancer risk and prognosis. The results indicated that none of them is associated with the cancer risk in NHL. Otherwise KRT81 rs3660 GG type is associated with a shorter survival time (p=0.012), after being assessed by multivariate Cox analyses, its effect on prognosis was verified (p=0.003). It suggests that KRT81 rs3660 GG type is an independent prognostic marker in NHL.

MicroRNA theragnostics for the clinical management of multiple myeloma

Theragnostics represent cutting-edge, multi-disciplinary strategies that combine diagnostics with therapeutics in order to generate personalized therapies that improve patient outcome. In oncology, the approach is aimed at more accurate diagnosis of cancer, optimization of patient selection to identify those most likely to benefit from a specific therapy and to generate effective therapeutics that enhance patient survival. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are master regulators of the human genome that orchestrate myriad cellular pathways to control growth during physiologic and pathologic conditions. Compelling evidence shows that miRNA deregulation promotes events linked to tumor initiation, metastasis and drug resistance as seen in multiple myeloma (MM), an invariably fatal hematologic malignancy. miRNAs are readily detected in body fluids, for example, serum, plasma, urine, as well as circulating tumor cells to demonstrate their potential as readily accessible, non-invasive diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers and potential therapeutics. Specific miRNAs are aberrantly expressed early in myelomagenesis and may more readily detect high-risk disease than current methods. Although only recently discovered miRNAs have rapidly advanced from preclinical studies to evaluation in human clinical trials. The development of miRNA theragnostics should provide widely applicable tools for the targeted delivery of personalized medicines to improve the outcome of patients with MM.

A miR-SNP of the XPO5 gene is associated with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer

Objectives

MicroRNA (miRNA)-related single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in miRNA processing machinery genes can affect cancer risk, treatment efficacy, and patient prognosis. A miR-SNP of rs11077 located in the 3′ untranslated region (3′ UTR) of the miRNA processing machinery gene XPO5 was examined in 112 advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients to evaluate its association with cancer outcome.

Materials and methods

The miR-SNP was genotyped with ligase detection reaction method. Survival curves were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method, and multivariate survival analysis was performed using a Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

The AC genotype of rs11077, which carries C or A allele, was significantly associated with a better chemotherapy response (P = 0.001). In addition, rs11077 was independently associated with overall survival in advanced NSCLC patients through multivariate analysis (relative risk 0.457; 95% confidence interval: 0.251–0.831; P = 0.010).

Conclusion

rs11077 was associated with chemotherapy response and survival of advanced NSCLC patients. The analysis of miR-SNPs in miRNA processing machinery genes can help identify patient subgroups that are at high risk for poor disease outcomes.

A microRNA-related single nucleotide polymorphism of the XPO5 gene is associated with survival of small cell lung cancer patients

MicroRNA (miRNA)-related single nucleotide polymorphisms (miR-SNPs) in miRNA processing machinery genes affect cancer risk, treatment efficacy and patient prognosis. A miR-SNP of rs11077 located in the 3'UTR of miRNA processing machinery gene XPO5 was examined in small cell lung cancer (SCLC) patients to evaluate its association with cancer survival. A total of 42 patients were enrolled in the present study and genotyped for rs11077 and survival was assessed using the Kaplan-Meier method, as well as univariate and multivariate analyses. The AA genotype of rs11077 was identified for its significant association with better survival time (P=0.023). In addition, rs11077 was found to associate independently with overall survival in SCLC patients by multivariate analysis (relative risk 2.469; 95% CI, 1.088-5.603; P=0.031). The findings of this study suggest that although miR-SNP studies for miRNA processing machinery genes are still at an early age, miR-SNPs have an impact on cancer survival. In conclusion, a miR-SNP in the 3'UTR region of the XPO5 gene was identified as an independent prognostic marker for survival of advanced SCLC patients.

Non-coding RNA: a novel opportunity for the personalized treatment of multiple myeloma

INTRODUCTION

Increasing evidence indicates that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are aberrantly expressed and/or functionally deregulated in hematological malignancies, including multiple myeloma. Harnessing these abnormalities by either replacing or inhibiting ncRNAs is emerging as novel therapeutic option.

AREAS COVERED

We review the recent remarkable advancement in the understanding of the biological functions of human ncRNAs in multiple myeloma, including the biogenesis, the mechanisms of expression, the relevance as biomarkers, and mostly, the therapeutic potential. Special emphasis is given to microRNAs, the best characterized class of ncRNAs.

EXPERT OPINION

An improved understanding of the role of ncRNAs in multiple myeloma would provide valuable information about key cancer-promoting pathways and might be highly useful for diagnostic and prognostic assessments. This knowledge might also lead to advancement in the management of multiple myeloma through the development of novel personalized ncRNA-based therapies.