Novel lncRNA LINC00844 Regulates Prostate Cancer Cell Migration and Invasion through AR Signaling

Long Non-Coding RNA AC008972.1 as a Novel Therapeutic Target for Prostate Cancer

Background: Prostate cancer is a common male malignancy and the leading cause of cancer death in men. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), microRNA (miRNAs) and mRNAs networks mediate prostate cancer progression. Herein, we investigated the functions of lncRNA AC008972.1 and its regulatory mechanism in prostate cancer. Materials and Methods: The expression levels of lncRNA AC008972.1, miR-143-3p, and TAOK2 were detected in prostate cancer tissues and cell lines by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. PC3 and LNCaP cells were used to establish lncRNA AC008972.1-knockdown, miR-143-3p-overexpressing, and thousand-and-one-amino acid 2 kinase (TAOK2)-downregulated cells. Cell viability was examined by MTT assays and cell proliferation was detected by clone formation assay. Cell migration and invasion were detected by wound scratch assay and transwell chamber assay. The apoptosis rate was analyzed by flow cytometry. The protein expression was detected by Western blot assay. The RNA interaction was explored and validated by RNA binding protein immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay and dual luciferase activity assay. A mouse xenograft model was established to investigate the effect of lncRNA AC008972.1 on prostate cancer progression. Results: High expression of lncRNA AC008972.1 was associated with low overall survival in prostate cancer patients. Downregulation of lncRNA AC008972.1 suppressed prostate cancer progression by inhibiting cell viability, proliferation, migration, and invasion, in addition to the EMT process, whereas cell apoptosis was significantly promoted. LncRNA AC008972.1 bound with miR-143-3p and negatively regulated miR-143-3p expression. MiR-143-3p overexpression suppressed prostate cancer malignant behaviors in vitro. TAOK2 expression was decreased by miR-143-3p through the complementary targeting of TAOK2 mRNA. Downregulation of lncRNA AC008972.1 mitigated prostate cancer malignant behaviors in vitro based on miR-143-3p/TAOK2 node. Furthermore, the data of xenograft model experiment showed that inhibition of lncRNA AC008972.1 suppressed tumor growth in vivo. Conclusions: Knockdown of lncRNA AC008972.1 inhibits prostate cancer cell growth via downregulation of TAOK2 induced by miR-143-3p. LncRNA AC008972.1 acts as an oncogene in the progression of prostate cancer and may provide a novel therapeutic target for prostate cancer.

Multifaced roles of the long non-coding RNA DRAIC in cancer progression

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA) are functional RNAs, with over 200 nucleotides in length and lacking protein-coding potential. Studies have indicated that lncRNAs are important gene regulators under physiological conditions. Aberrant lncRNA expression is associated with the initiation and progression of various diseases, including cancers. High-throughput transcriptome analyses have revealed thousands of lncRNAs as putative tumor suppressors or promoters in various cancers, but the detailed molecular mechanisms of each lncRNA remain unclear. Downregulated RNA In Cancer, inhibitor of cell invasion and migration (DRAIC) (also known as LOC145837 and RP11-279F6.1) is a lncRNA that inhibits or promotes cancer progression with several modes of action. DRAIC was originally identified as a tumor-suppressive lncRNA in prostate adenocarcinoma. Subsequent studies also revealed that it has an anti-tumor role in glioblastoma, triple-negative breast cancer, and stomach adenocarcinoma. However, DRAIC exhibits oncogenic functions in other malignancies, such as lung adenocarcinoma and esophageal carcinoma, indicating its highly context-dependent effects on cancer progression and clinical outcomes. DRAIC and its associated pathways regulate various biological processes, including proliferation, invasion, metastasis, autophagy, and neuroendocrine function. This review introduces the multifaceted roles of DRAIC, particularly in cancer progression, and discusses its biological significance and clinical implications.

Updated review on analysis of long non-coding RNAs as emerging diagnostic and therapeutic targets in prostate cancers

Despite advancements, prostate cancers (PCa) pose a significant global health challenge due to delayed diagnosis and therapeutic resistance. This review delves into the complex landscape of prostate cancer, with a focus on long-noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs). Also explores the influence of aberrant lncRNAs expression in progressive PCa stages, impacting traits like proliferation, invasion, metastasis and therapeutic resistance. The study elucidates how lncRNAs modulate crucial molecular effectors, including transcription factors and microRNAs, affecting signaling pathways such as androgen receptor signaling. Besides, this manuscript sheds light on novel concepts and mechanisms driving PCa progression through lncRNAs, providing a critical analysis of their impact on the disease's diverse characteristics. Besides, it discusses the potential of lncRNAs as diagnostics and therapeutic targets in PCa. Collectively, this work highlights state of art mechanistic comprehension and rigorous scientific approaches to advance our understanding of PCa and depict innovations in this evolving field of research.

Long non-coding RNAs in cancer: multifaceted roles and potential targets for immunotherapy

Cancer remains a major global health concern with high mortality rates mainly due to late diagnosis and poor prognosis. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging as key regulators of gene expression in human cancer, functioning through various mechanisms including as competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) and indirectly regulating miRNA expression. LncRNAs have been found to have both oncogenic and tumor-suppressive roles in cancer, with the former promoting cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and poor prognosis. Recent research has shown that lncRNAs are expressed in various immune cells and are involved in cancer cell immune escape and the modulation of the tumor microenvironment, thus highlighting their potential as targets for cancer immunotherapy. Targeting lncRNAs in cancer or immune cells could enhance the anti-tumor immune response and improve cancer immunotherapy outcomes. However, further research is required to fully understand the functional roles of lncRNAs in cancer and the immune system and their potential as targets for cancer immunotherapy. This review offers a comprehensive examination of the multifaceted roles of lncRNAs in human cancers, with a focus on their potential as targets for cancer immunotherapy. By exploring the intricate mechanisms underlying lncRNA-mediated regulation of cancer cell proliferation, invasion, and immune evasion, we provide insights into the diverse therapeutic applications of these molecules.

LINC00844 suppresses tumor progression and predicts survival outcomes through inhibiting miR-19a-5p in cholangiocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a heterogeneous malignancy. The aim of the study was to investigate the regulatory role of long noncoding RNA LINC00844 in CCA progression, explore the underlying molecular mechanisms, and to analyze the potential prognostic value of LINC00844 in CCA patients.

METHODS

Expression of LINC00844 in CCA cell lines and tissues was examined by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. Cell counting kit-8 assay was used to assess CCA cell proliferation, and the Transwell assay was used to evaluate tumor cell migration and invasion. miRNAs sponged by LINC00844 were predicted and confirmed using a luciferase reporter assay. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed to evaluate the survival prognosis of CCA patients.

RESULTS

The expression levels of LINC00844 were decreased in CCA tissues and cells. Overexpression of LINC00844 inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion in CCA cells. miR-19a-5p is directly targeted by LINC00844, mediating the inhibitory effects of LINC00844 on the proliferation, migration and invasion of CCA cells. LINC00844 and miR-19a-5p expression were associated with differentiation and tumor node metastasis stage in CCA patients. CCA patients with low LINC00844 expression or overexpression of miR-19a-5p had worse overall survival.

CONCLUSION

The expression levels of LINC00844 were decreased in both CCA tissues and cells, and high LINC00844 inhibited CCA cell proliferation, migration and invasion through sponging miR-19a-5p. Low LINC00844 and high miR-19a-5p expression were associated with worse overall survival in CCA patients. All the data suggested that the LINC00844/miR-19a-5p axis may provide novel therapeutic targets and prognostic biomarkers for CCA patients.

LncRNA FAM83H-AS1 Contributes to the Radio-resistance and Proliferation in Liver Cancer through Stability FAM83H Protein

BACKGROUND

Liver cancer (LC) is one of China's most common malignant tumors, with a high mortality rate, ranking third leading cause of death after gastric and esophageal cancer. Recent patents propose the LncRNA FAM83H-AS1 has been verified to perform a crucial role in the progression of LC. LncRNA FAM83H-AS1 has been verified to perform a crucial role in the progression of LC. However, the concrete mechanism remains to be pending further investigation.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore the embedding mechanism of FAM83H-AS1 molecules in terms of radio sensitivity of LC and provide potentially effective therapeutic targets for LC therapy.

METHODS

Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was conducted to measure the transcription levels of genes. Proliferation was determined via CCK8 and colony formation assays. Western blot was carried out to detect the relative protein expression. A xenograft mouse model was constructed to investigate the effect of LncRNA FAM83H-AS1 on tumor growth and radio-sensitivity in vivo.

RESULTS

The levels of lncRNA FAM83H-AS1 were remarkably increased in LC. Knockdown of FAM83H-AS1 inhibited LC cell proliferation and colony survival fraction. Deletion of FAM83H-AS1 increased the sensitivity of LC cells to 4 Gy of X-ray radiation. In the xenograft model, radiotherapy combined with FAM83H-AS1 silencing significantly reduced tumor volume and weight. Overexpression of FAM83H reversed the effects of FAM83H-AS1 deletion on proliferation and colony survival fraction in LC cells. Moreover, the over-expressing of FAM83H also restored the tumor volume and weight reduction caused by the knockdown of FAM83H-AS1 or radiation in the xenograft model.

CONCLUSION

Knockdown of lncRNA FAM83H-AS1 inhibited LC growth and enhanced radiosensitivity in LC. It has the potential to be a promising target for LC therapy.

Long Non-Coding RNAs in Colorectal Cancer: Navigating the Intersections of Immunity, Intercellular Communication, and Therapeutic Potential

This comprehensive review elucidates the intricate roles of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) within the colorectal cancer (CRC) microenvironment, intersecting the domains of immunity, intercellular communication, and therapeutic potential. lncRNAs, which are significantly involved in the pathogenesis of CRC, immune evasion, and the treatment response to CRC, have crucial implications in inflammation and serve as promising candidates for novel therapeutic strategies and biomarkers. This review scrutinizes the interaction of lncRNAs with the Consensus Molecular Subtypes (CMSs) of CRC, their complex interplay with the tumor stroma affecting immunity and inflammation, and their conveyance via extracellular vesicles, particularly exosomes. Furthermore, we delve into the intricate relationship between lncRNAs and other non-coding RNAs, including microRNAs and circular RNAs, in mediating cell-to-cell communication within the CRC microenvironment. Lastly, we propose potential strategies to manipulate lncRNAs to enhance anti-tumor immunity, thereby underlining the significance of lncRNAs in devising innovative therapeutic interventions in CRC.

Long Non-Coding RNA ZSCAN16-AS1 Promotes the Malignant Progression of Melanoma Through Regulating the miR-503-5p/ARL2 Axis

Background

LncRNA zinc finger and SCAN domain containing 16 antisense RNA 1 (ZSCAN16-AS1), a newly identified lncRNA, has been proven to accelerate hepatocellular carcinoma progression. However, the function and molecular mechanism of ZSCAN16-AS1 in melanoma are still unknown.

Methods

The level of ZSCAN16-AS1 in melanoma tissues was detected and reported in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and GEO#GSE15605. CCK-8, Transwell and flow cytometry assays were used to explore the role of ZSCAN16-AS1 in melanoma cells. Luciferase reporter assays and RNA pull-down assays were used to verify the molecular mechanism of ZSCAN16-AS1.

Results

Here, we found that ZSCAN16-AS1 expression was increased in melanoma. We confirmed that ZSCAN16-AS1 promotes the growth and metastasis of melanoma. ZSCAN16-AS1 exerts its pro-tumour role through sponging of miR-503-5p to liberate ADP-ribosylation factor-like protein 2 (ARL2) mRNA transcripts.

Conclusion

These results demonstrated the role and molecular mechanism of ZSCAN16-AS1 in the occurrence and development of melanoma. Therefore, ZSCAN16-AS1 may be used as a specific biomarker in the diagnosis and treatment of melanoma patients.

A risk signature of necroptosis-related lncRNA to predict prognosis and probe molecular characteristics for male with bladder cancer

Bladder cancer (BC) is a frequently diagnosed cancer with high mortality. Male patients have a higher risk of developing BC than female patients. As a type of caspase-independent cell death, necroptosis plays a significant role in the occurrence and progression of BC. The aberrant function of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) plays an indispensable role in GI. However, the relationship between lncRNA and necroptosis in male patients with BC remains unclear. The clinical information and RNA-sequencing profiles of all BC patients were retrieved from The Cancer Genome Atlas Program. A total of 300 male participants were selected for the study. We conducted to identify the necroptosis-related lncRNAs (NRLs) by Pearson correlation analysis. Subsequently, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator Cox regression were conducted to establish a risk signature with overall survival-related NRLs in the training set and to validate it in the testing set. Finally, we verified the effectiveness of the 15-NRLs signature in prognostic prediction and therapy via survival analysis, receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, and Cox regression. Furthermore, we analyzed the correlation between the signature risk score and pathway enrichment analysis, immune cell infiltration, anticancer drug sensitivity, and somatic gene mutations. We developed 15-NRLs (AC009974.1, AC140118.2, LINC00323, LINC02872, PCAT19, AC017104.1, AC134312.5, AC147067.2, AL139351.1, AL355922.1, LINC00844, AC069503.1, AP003721.1, DUBR, LINC02863) signature, and divided patients into a high-risk group and low-risk group through the median risk score. Kaplan-Meier and receiver operating characteristic curves showed that the prognosis prediction had satisfactory accuracy. Cox regression analysis indicated that the 15-NRLs signature was a risk factor independent of various clinical parameters. Additionally, immune cell infiltration, half-maximal inhibitory concentration, and somatic gene mutations differed significantly among different risk subsets, implying that the signature could assess the clinical efficacy of chemotherapy and immunotherapy. This 15-NRLs risk signature may be helpful in assessing the prognosis and molecular features of male patients with BC and improve treatment modalities, thus can be further applied clinically.

Identification of androgen response-related lncRNAs in prostate cancer

BACKGROUND

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are RNA molecules with over 200 nucleotides that do not code for proteins, but are known to be widely expressed and have key roles in gene regulation and cellular functions. They are also found to be involved in the onset and development of various cancers, including prostate cancer (PCa). Since PCa are commonly driven by androgen regulated signaling, mainly stimulated pathways, identification and determining the influence of lncRNAs in androgen response is useful and necessary. LncRNAs regulated by the androgen receptor (AR) can serve as potential biomarkers for PCa. In the present study, gene expression data analysis were performed to distinguish lncRNAs related to the androgen response pathway.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We used publicly available RNA-sequencing and ChIP-seq data to identify lncRNAs that are associated with the androgen response pathway. Using Universal Correlation Coefficient (UCC) and Pearson Correlation Coefficient (PCC) analyses, we found 15 lncRNAs that have (a) highly correlated expression with androgen response genes in PCa and are (b) differentially expressed in the setting of treatment with an androgen agonist as well as antagonist compared to controls. Using publicly available ChIP-seq data, we investigated the role of androgen/AR axis in regulating expression of these lncRNAs. We observed AR binding in the promoter regions of 5 lncRNAs (MIR99AHG, DUBR, DRAIC, PVT1, and COLCA1), showing the direct influence of AR on their expression and highlighting their association with the androgen response pathway.

CONCLUSION

By utilizing publicly available multiomics data and by employing in silico methods, we identified five candidate lncRNAs that are involved in the androgen response pathway. These lncRNAs should be investigated as potential biomarkers for PCa.

Emerging RNA-Based Therapeutic and Diagnostic Options: Recent Advances and Future Challenges in Genitourinary Cancers

Renal cell carcinoma, bladder cancer, and prostate cancer are the most widespread genitourinary tumors. Their treatment and diagnosis have significantly evolved over recent years, due to an increasing understanding of oncogenic factors and the molecular mechanisms involved. Using sophisticated genome sequencing technologies, the non-coding RNAs, such as microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs, have all been implicated in the occurrence and progression of genitourinary cancers. Interestingly, DNA, protein, and RNA interactions with lncRNAs and other biological macromolecules drive some of these cancer phenotypes. Studies on the molecular mechanisms of lncRNAs have identified new functional markers that could be potentially useful as biomarkers for effective diagnosis and/or as targets for therapeutic intervention. This review focuses on the mechanisms underlying abnormal lncRNA expression in genitourinary tumors and discusses their role in diagnostics, prognosis, and treatment.

Spatial transcriptome analysis of long non-coding RNAs reveals tissue specificity and functional roles in cancer

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a significant role in maintaining tissue morphology and functions, and their precise regulatory effectiveness is closely related to expression patterns. However, the spatial expression patterns of lncRNAs in humans are poorly characterized. Here, we constructed five comprehensive transcriptomic atlases of human lncRNAs covering thousands of major tissue samples in normal and disease states. The lncRNA transcriptomes exhibited high consistency within the same tissues across resources, and even higher complexity in specialized tissues. Tissue-elevated (TE) lncRNAs were identified in each resource and robust TE lncRNAs were refined by integrative analysis. We detected 1 to 4684 robust TE lncRNAs across tissues; the highest number was in testis tissue, followed by brain tissue. Functional analyses of TE lncRNAs indicated important roles in corresponding tissue-related pathways. Moreover, we found that the expression features of robust TE lncRNAs made them be effective biomarkers to distinguish tissues; TE lncRNAs also tended to be associated with cancer, and exhibited differential expression or were correlated with patient survival. In summary, spatial classification of lncRNAs is the starting point for elucidating the function of lncRNAs in both maintenance of tissue morphology and progress of tissue-constricted diseases.

Molecular Mechanisms of Noncoding RNA in the Occurrence of Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer

Although several therapeutic options have been shown to improve survival of most patients with prostate cancer, progression to castration-refractory state continues to present challenges in clinics and scientific research. As a highly heterogeneous disease entity, the mechanisms of castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) are complicated and arise from multiple factors. Among them, noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), the untranslated part of the human transcriptome, are closely related to almost all biological regulation, including tumor metabolisms, epigenetic modifications and immune escape, which has encouraged scientists to investigate their role in CRPC. In clinical practice, ncRNAs, especially miRNAs and lncRNAs, may function as potential biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis of CRPC. Therefore, understanding the molecular biology of CRPC will help boost a shift in the treatment of CRPC patients. In this review, we summarize the recent findings of miRNAs and lncRNAs, discuss their potential functional mechanisms and highlight their clinical application prospects in CRPC.

Identification of long non-coding RNA biomarkers and signature scoring, with competing endogenous RNA networks- targeted drug candidates for recurrent implantation failure

Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) remains a source of frustration and presents challenges to clinicians in the practice of assisted reproductive technology (ART). Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are increasingly recognised as potential biomarkers in various diseases. In this study, eight differentially expressed lncRNAs (LINC00645, LINC00844, LINC02349, AC010975.1, AC022034.1, AC096719.1, AC104072.1 and DLGAP1-AS3) to distinguish RIF from fertile women were identified by RobustRankAggreg (RRA). A two-lncRNA signature for predicting RIF was established by least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression, with accuracy confirmed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. After lncRNA-microRNA-mRNA regulatory networks were established by Cytoscape 3.7.2, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses were performed, suggesting that the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA regulatory networks were associated with biological processes involved in endometrial receptivity. Finally, three putative drugs (miconazole, terfenadine and STOCK1N-35215) for RIF were predicted by a Connectivity Map. In conclusion, we identified eight lncRNA biomarkers and a two-lncRNA signature for predicting RIF, as well as proposing three candidate drugs against RIF by targeting the ceRNA networks.

Identification of pyroptosis-related lncRNA signature and AC005253.1 as a pyroptosis-related oncogene in prostate cancer

Background

Pyroptosis and prostate cancer (PCa) are closely related. The role of pyroptosis-related long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) (PRLs) in PCa remains elusive. This study aimed to explore the relationship between PRL and PCa prognosis.

Methods

Gene expression and clinical signatures were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas and Gene Expression Omnibus databases. A PRL risk prediction model was established by survival random forest analysis and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression. Functional enrichment, immune status, immune checkpoints, genetic mutations, and drug susceptibility analyses related to risk scores were performed by the single-sample gene set enrichment analysis, gene set variation analysis, and copy number variation analysis. PRL expression was verified in PCa cells. Cell Counting Kit-8, 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine, wound healing, transwell, and Western blotting assay were used to detect the proliferation, migration, invasion, and pyroptosis of PCa cells, respectively.

Results

Prognostic features based on six PRL (AC129507.1, AC005253.1, AC127502.2, AC068580.3, LIMD1-AS1, and LINC01852) were constructed, and patients in the high-score group had a worse prognosis than those in the low-score group. This feature was determined to be independent by Cox regression analysis, and the area under the curve of the 1-, 3-, and 5-year receiver operating characteristic curves in the testing cohort was 1, 0.93, and 0.92, respectively. Moreover, the external cohort validation confirmed the robustness of the PRL risk prediction model. There was a clear distinction between the immune status of the two groups. The expression of multiple immune checkpoints was also reduced in the high-score group. Gene mutation proportion in the high-score group increased, and the sensitivity to drugs increased significantly. Six PRLs were upregulated in PCa cells. Silencing of AC005253.1 inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in DU145 and PC-3 cells. Moreover, silencing of AC005253.1 promoted pyroptosis and inflammasome AIM2 expression.

Conclusions

Overall, we constructed a prognostic model of PCa with six PRLs and identified their expression in PCa cells. The experimental verification showed that AC005253.1 could affect the proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities of PCa cells. Meanwhile, AC005253.1 may play an important role in PCa by affecting pyroptosis through the AIM2 inflammasome. This result requires further research for verification.

Molecular Landscape of LncRNAs in Prostate Cancer: A focus on pathways and therapeutic targets for intervention

Background

One of the most malignant tumors in men is prostate cancer that is still incurable due to its heterogenous and progressive natures. Genetic and epigenetic changes play significant roles in its development. The RNA molecules with more than 200 nucleotides in length are known as lncRNAs and these epigenetic factors do not encode protein. They regulate gene expression at transcriptional, post-transcriptional and epigenetic levels. LncRNAs play vital biological functions in cells and in pathological events, hence their expression undergoes dysregulation.

Aim of review

The role of epigenetic alterations in prostate cancer development are emphasized here. Therefore, lncRNAs were chosen for this purpose and their expression level and interaction with other signaling networks in prostate cancer progression were examined.

Key scientific concepts of review

The aberrant expression of lncRNAs in prostate cancer has been well-documented and progression rate of tumor cells are regulated via affecting STAT3, NF-κB, Wnt, PI3K/Akt and PTEN, among other molecular pathways. Furthermore, lncRNAs regulate radio-resistance and chemo-resistance features of prostate tumor cells. Overexpression of tumor-promoting lncRNAs such as HOXD-AS1 and CCAT1 can result in drug resistance. Besides, lncRNAs can induce immune evasion of prostate cancer via upregulating PD-1. Pharmacological compounds such as quercetin and curcumin have been applied for targeting lncRNAs. Furthermore, siRNA tool can reduce expression of lncRNAs thereby suppressing prostate cancer progression. Prognosis and diagnosis of prostate tumor at clinical course can be evaluated by lncRNAs. The expression level of exosomal lncRNAs such as lncRNA-p21 can be investigated in serum of prostate cancer patients as a reliable biomarker.

Upregulation of long noncoding RNA linc02544 and its association with overall survival rate and the influence on cell proliferation and migration in lung squamous cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) exert crucial biological functions by regulating miRNAs, which are implicated in cancer progression and tumorigenesis. A previous study has indicated that lncRNA linc02544 expression is upregulated in lung adenocarcinoma, whereas, the role of linc02544 in LUSC is elusive.

METHODS

The differential linc02544 expression in LUSC tissues and adjacent non-tumor tissues were evaluated with RT-qPCR. Kaplan-Meier curve was conducted to evaluate the clinical prognostic significance of linc02544. Then cellular experiments were performed to assess the influence of linc02544 in LUSC proliferation, invasion, and migration, and a western blot assay was used to measure the metastasis-related protein levels. The downstream miRNAs were verified using the LncBase Experimental v.2 database and dual-luciferase reporter assay.

RESULTS

Linc02544 was overexpressed in LUSC tissues from positive lymph node metastasis-positive and TNM high-stage patients. Low linc02544 expression was associated with a longer survival rate. Downregulation of linc02544 by si-linc02544 restrained cell growth capacities, migration, and invasion abilities. Expression of MMP-2, MMP-9, and vimentin was decreased while E-cadherin was increased in si-linc02544 cells compared with that in untreated cells. Mechanistically, we identified that linc02544 acted as a sponge of miR-138-5p, which expression had a negative correlation. E2F3 was a potential target of miR-138-5p, CONCLUSIONS: Notably, high linc02544 expression was associated with severe clinical parameters and was a putative prognostic predictor for patients with LUSC. Downregulation of linc02544 may weaken the LUSC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion by regulating miR-138-5p/E2F3, which maybe serve as a biomarker for the prognosis and target treatment of LUSC.

Long non-coding RNA MIR22HG suppresses cell proliferation and promotes apoptosis in prostate cancer cells by sponging microRNA-9-3p

The present study was designed to discuss long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) MIR22HG expression in prostate cancer and to address its effect on prostate cancer cells. MIR22HG and microRNA (miR)-9-3p expressions in prostate cancer cells were examined with the use of quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Cell counting kit (CCK)-8, colony formation, and TUNEL were conducted to determine cell viability and apoptosis. Immunofluorescence was employed for the detection of Ki67 expression, and western blotting was applied for the examination of apoptosis-related proteins. The relationship of MIR22HG and miR-9-3p was verified employing luciferase reporter assay. Indeed, low MIR22HG expression was discovered in prostate cancer cells. Subsequently, in vitro loss-of-function studies revealed that MIR22HG overexpression suppressed cell proliferation but promoted cell apoptosis, accompanied with a reduction in Ki67 and Bcl-2 expressions, as well as an elevation in Bax and cleaved caspase 3 expressions. In addition, MIR22HG was identified as a sponge of miR-9-3p and the impacts of MIR22HG overexpression on cell proliferation and apoptosis were partly hindered by miR-9-3p overexpression. In summary, MIR22HG acts as an anticancer gene in prostate cancer via inhibiting cell proliferation and promoting apoptosis by sponging miR-9-3p. This article may provide a novel insight into the treatment of prostate cancer.

LncRNA polymorphisms and urologic cancer risk

Urologic cancers involve nearly one-quarter of all cancers and include the prostate, bladder, and kidney cancers. Long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) are expressed in a tissue-specific manner and affect cell proliferation, apoptosis, and differentiation. LncRNAs expression is misregulated in urologic cancers, as their aberrant expression may make them capable of being utilized in the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of cancers. LncRNAs polymorphisms can affect their structure, expression, and function by interfering with the associated target mRNAs. As a result, lncRNA polymorphisms may be linked to the mechanism driving cancer susceptibility. Therefore, SNPs in lncRNAs may be a beneficial biomarker for early diagnosis and prognosis of cancers, as they affect lncRNA role in tumorigenesis and cancer progression. Moreover, the genetic heredity of lncRNA SNPs affects the personal therapeutic response to drugs. In this study, the lncRNAs polymorphism is summarized in relation to urologic cancers. It is proposed that lncRNA-related polymorphisms, as an individual or combined genotypes, can predict urologic cancer risk, even clinical and prognostic outcomes. However, large-scale population-based prospective studies and comprehensive meta-analyses should be conducted to validate and use these lncRNAs SNPs as the indicators of urologic cancers. Future research should examine the function of these SNPs to explain their associations with urologic cancers.

High expression of small nucleolar RNA host gene 3 predicts poor prognosis and promotes bone metastasis in prostate cancer by activating transforming growth factor-beta signaling

Bone metastasis is closely related to tumor death in prostate cancer (PC). Long noncoding RNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 3 (SNHG3) has been implicated in the initiation and progression of multiple human cancers. Nevertheless, the biological function of SNHG3 in PC has not been elucidated. Our results indicated that SNHG3 was upregulated in bone metastasis-positive PC tissues compared to bone metastasis-negative PC tissues and adjacent normal tissues. High expression of SNHG3 indicates advanced clinicopathological features and predicts poor prognosis in patients with PC. Meanwhile, SNHG3 knockdown suppressed the proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities of PC cells and inhibited PC cell metastasis to the bone. Mechanistically, SNHG3 enhanced the expression of transforming growth factor beta receptor 1 (TGFBR1) and activated transforming growth factor-Beta (TGF-β) signaling by targeting miR-214-3p. Our study demonstrated the novel role of the SNHG3/miR-214-3p/TGF-β axis in tumor growth and bone metastasis in PC, indicating that SNHG3 may act as a biomarker and promising therapeutic target against PC.

Adipose-derived stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles inhibit neuroblastoma growth by regulating GABBR1 activity through LINC00622-mediated transcription factor AR

Neuroblastoma (NB) is a huge threat to children's health. Adipose-derived stem cells-derived extracellular vesicles (ADSC-Evs) can regulate tumor progression. This study aimed to identify the role of ADSC-Evs in NB. Following ADSC-Ev isolation and identification, PKH26-labeled ADSC-Evs were cocultured with NB cells to observe the internalization of ADSC-Evs. ADSC-Ev effects on NB cell proliferation, invasion, and migration were assessed. The regulatory molecules related to NB development were predicted. The expressions of and relations among LINC00622, transcriptional factor androgen receptor (AR), and gamma-aminobutyric acid B-type receptor 1 (GABRR1) were detected and verified. LINC00622 was inhibited in ADSCs to evaluate ADSC-Ev effects on NB cells. Xenograft tumor experiment in nude mice was further performed to evaluate the effects of ADSC-Evs-carried LINC00622 on NB in vivo. ADSC-Evs inhibited NB cell proliferation, invasion, and migration. ADSC-Evs increased GABBR1 expression in NB cells. ADSC-Evs-carried LINC00622 mediated AR to promote GABBR1 expression. Silencing LINC00622 in ADSCs weakened the inhibition of ADSC-Evs on NB cell malignant behaviors. ADSC-Evs reduced tumor growth in nude mice, which was restored after inhibiting LINC00622 expression in ADSCs. We highlighted that ADSC-Evs carried LINC00622 into NB cells to inhibit transcription factor AR and promote GABBR1 expression, thus inhibiting NB cell growth.

Roles of Key Epigenetic Regulators in the Gene Transcription and Progression of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a top-incidence malignancy, and the second most common cause of death amongst American men and the fifth leading cause of cancer death in men around the world. Androgen receptor (AR), the key transcription factor, is critical for the progression of PCa by regulating a series of target genes by androgen stimulation. A number of co-regulators of AR, including co-activators or co-repressors, have been implicated in AR-mediated gene transcription and PCa progression. Epigenetic regulators, by modifying chromatin integrity and accessibility for transcription regulation without altering DNA sequences, influence the transcriptional activity of AR and further regulate the gene expression of AR target genes in determining cell fate, PCa progression and therapeutic response. In this review, we summarized the structural interaction of AR and epigenetic regulators including histone or DNA methylation, histone acetylation or non-coding RNA, and functional synergy in PCa progression. Importantly, epigenetic regulators have been validated as diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets. A series of epigenetic target drugs have been developed, and have demonstrated the potential to treat PCa alone or in combination with antiandrogens.

Long Non-coding RNAs LINC01679 as a Competitive Endogenous RNAs Inhibits the Development and Progression of Prostate Cancer via Regulating the miR-3150a-3p/SLC17A9 Axis

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been indicated as the candidate factors to predict cancer prognosis. However, it is still unknown whether lncRNA combinations may be utilized for predicting overall survival (OS) of prostate cancer (PCa). The present work focused on selecting the potent OS-related lncRNA signature for PCa and studying its molecular mechanism to enhance the prognosis prediction accuracy. Differentially expressed lncRNAs (DElncRNAs) or differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained based on TCGA database by R software “edgeR” package. lncRNAs or mRNAs significantly related to PCa were screened through univariate as well as multivariate Cox regression, for the construction of the risk model for prognosis prediction. Moreover, this constructed risk model was validated through ROC analysis, univariate regression, and Kaplan–Meier (KM) analysis. Additionally, we built a lncRNA–miRNA–mRNA ceRNA network through bioinformatics analysis. Colony formation, CCK-8, flow cytometry, scratch, and Transwell assays were performed based on PCa cells subjected to small interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting LINC01679/SLC17A9 and vector expressing LINC01679/SLC17A9 transfection. Thereafter, the ceRNA mechanism was clarified via qRT-PCR, Western blotting (WB), RNA pull-down, and luciferase reporter assays. Nude mouse tumor xenograft was established to examine LINC01679’s oncogenicity within PCa cells. According to our results, LINC01679 depletion promoted cell proliferation, metastasis, tumor growth, and inhibited cell apoptosis in vivo and in vitro, which was also associated with poor survival. LINC01679 regulated miR-3150a-3p level by sponging it. Importantly, miR-3150a-3p overexpression was related to the increased proliferation and decreased apoptosis of PCa cells. Rescue assays suggested that miR-3150a-3p mimics rescued the repression on PCa progression mediated by LINC01679 upregulation, but SLC17A9 downregulation reversed the miR-3150a-3p inhibitor-mediated repression on PC progression. Importantly, SLC17A9 downregulation rescued the repression on PCa progression mediated by LINC01679 upregulation. LINC01679 and SLC17A9 are tightly associated with certain clinicopathological characteristics of PCa and its prognostic outcome. In addition, LINC01679 is the ceRNA that suppresses PCa development through modulating the miR-3150a-3p/SLC17A9 axis.

Interaction between Non-Coding RNAs and Androgen Receptor with an Especial Focus on Prostate Cancer

The androgen receptor (AR) is a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily and has three functional domains, namely the N-terminal, DNA binding, and C-terminal domain. The N-terminal domain harbors potent transactivation functions, whereas the C-terminal domain binds to androgens and antiandrogens used to treat prostate cancer. AR has genomic activity being DNA binding-dependent or through interaction with other DNA-bound transcription factors, as well as a number of non-genomic, non-canonical functions, such as the activation of the ERK, AKT, and MAPK pathways. A bulk of evidence indicates that non-coding RNAs have functional interactions with AR. This type of interaction is implicated in the pathogenesis of human malignancies, particularly prostate cancer. In the current review, we summarize the available data on the role of microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs on the expression of AR and modulation of AR signaling, as well as the effects of AR on their expression. Recognition of the complicated interaction between non-coding RNAs and AR has practical importance in the design of novel treatment options, as well as modulation of response to conventional therapeutics.

Loss of long non-coding RNA NXTAR in prostate cancer augments androgen receptor expression and enzalutamide resistance

Androgen receptor (AR) signaling continues to play a dominant role in all stages of prostate cancer (PC), including castration-resistant prostate cancers (CRPC) that have developed resistance to second-generation AR antagonists such as enzalutamide. In this study, we identified a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), NXTAR (LOC105373241), that is located convergent with the AR gene and is repressed in human prostate tumors and cell lines. NXTAR bound upstream of the AR promoter and promoted EZH2 recruitment, causing significant loss of AR (and AR-V7) expression. Paradoxically, AR bound the NXTAR promoter, and inhibition of AR by the ACK1/TNK2 small molecule inhibitor (R)-9b excluded AR from the NXTAR promoter. The histone acetyltransferase GCN5 bound and deposited H3K14 acetylation marks, enhancing NXTAR expression. Application of an oligonucleotide derived from NXTAR exon 5 (NXTAR-N5) suppressed AR/AR-V7 expression and prostate cancer cell proliferation, indicating the translational relevance of the negative regulation of AR. In addition, pharmacological restoration of NXTAR using (R)-9b abrogated enzalutamide-resistant prostate xenograft tumor growth. Overall, this study uncovers a positive feedback loop, wherein NXTAR acts as a novel prostate tumor-suppressing lncRNA by inhibiting AR/AR-V7 expression, which in turn upregulates NXTAR levels, compromising enzalutamide-resistant prostate cancer. The restoration of NXTAR could serve as a new therapeutic modality for patients who have acquired resistance to second-generation AR antagonists.

TPRG1-AS1 induces RBM24 expression and inhibits liver cancer progression by sponging miR-4691-5p and miR-3659

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) play critical roles in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression. Here, by performing RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq) profiling, we sought to identify novel ncRNAs that potentially drive the heterogeneous progression of liver cancers.

METHODS

RNA-Seq profiles were obtained from 68 HCC specimens and 10 samples of adjacent non-tumour liver tissues. The functional significance of the potential driver ncRNAs was evaluated by cell experiments.

RESULTS

TPRG1-AS1 was identified as a potential driver noncoding RNA that promotes heterogeneous liver cancer progression. TPRG1-AS1 induced tumour suppressor RNA-binding motif protein 24 (RBM24), suppressing tumour growth by activating apoptotic tumour cell death. In addition, we report that TPRG1-AS1 acts as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) for RBM24, sponging miR-4691-5p and miR-3659 to interfere with their binding to RBM24.

CONCLUSIONS

We suggest that TPRG1-AS1 is a novel ceRNA sponging miR-4691-5p and miR-3659, resulting in RBM24 expression and suppression of liver cancer growth. Our results provide new insights into the functions of ncRNAs in heterogeneous HCC progression.

Down-regulated LINC00115 inhibits prostate cancer cell proliferation and invasion via targeting miR-212-5p/FZD5/Wnt/β-catenin axis

Prostate cancer is the second most frequent malignancy in men worldwide, and its incidence is increasing. Therefore, it is urgently required to clarify the underlying mechanisms of prostate cancer. Although the long non‐coding RNA LINC00115 was identified as an oncogene in several cancers, the expression and function of LINC00115 in prostate cancer have not been explored. Our results showed that LINC00115 was significantly up‐regulated in prostate cancer tissues, which was significantly associated with a poor prognosis for prostate cancer patients. Functional studies showed that knockdown LINC00115 inhibited cell proliferation and invasion. In addition, LINC00115 served as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) through sponging miR‐212‐5p to release Frizzled Family Receptor 5 (FZD5) expression. The expression of miR‐212‐5p was noticeably low in tumour tissues, and FZD5 expression level was down‐regulated with the knockdown of LINC00115. Knockdown LINC00115 inhibited the Wnt/β‑catenin signalling pathway by inhibiting the expression of FZD5. Rescue experiments further showed that LINC00115 inhibits prostate cancer cell proliferation and invasion via targeting miR‐212‐5p/ FZD5/ Wnt/β‐catenin axis. The present study provided clues that LINC00115 may be a promising novel therapeutic target for prostate cancer patients.

Long non-‑coding RNA SNHG16 functions as a tumor activator by sponging miR‑373‑3p to regulate the TGF‑β‑R2/SMAD pathway in prostate cancer

Long non‑coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in the pathogenesis of prostate cancer (PCa) as competitive endogenous RNA. The present study aimed to investigate the molecular mech--anisms of lncRNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 16 (SNHG16) in the proliferation and metastasis of PCa cells. Cancer tissues and adjacent normal tissues were collected from 80 patients with PCa who did not receive any treatment. Reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR analysis was performed to detect the expression levels of SNHG16, hsa‑microRNA (miRNA/miR)‑373‑3p and transforming growth factor‑β receptor type 2 (TGF‑β‑R2), and Spearman's correlation coefficient analysis was performed to assess the correlations between these molecules. Furthermore, the effects of SNHG16 knockdown and overexpression on the biological functions of DU‑145 PCa cells and TGF‑β‑R2/SMAD signaling were analyzed. The dual‑luciferase reporter assay was performed to assess the associations between SNHG16 and miR‑373‑3p, and TGF‑β‑R2 and miR‑373‑3p, the effects of which were verified via rescue experiments. The results demonstrated that the expression levels of SNHG16 and TGF‑β‑R2 were significantly upregulated in PCa tissues, whereas miR‑373‑3p expression was significantly downregulated (P<0.001). In addition, negative correlations were observed between SNHG16 and miR‑373‑3p (rho, ‑0.631) and miR‑373‑3p and TGF‑β‑R2 (rho, ‑0.516). Overexpression of SNHG16 significantly promoted the proliferation, migration and invasion of PCa cells (P<0.05), and significantly increased the protein expression levels of TGF‑β‑R2, phosphorylated (p)‑SMAD2, p‑SMAD3, c‑Myc and E2F4 (P<0.001). Notably, the results revealed that miR‑373‑3p is a target of SNHG16, and miR‑373‑3p knockdown rescued short hairpin (sh)‑SNHG16‑suppressed cellular functions by promoting TGF‑β‑R2/SMAD signaling. The results also revealed that miR‑373‑3p targets TGF‑β‑R2. Notably, transfection with miR‑373‑3p inhibitor rescued sh‑TGF‑β‑R2‑suppressed cell proliferation and migration. Taken together, the results of the present study suggest that SNHG16 promotes the proliferation and migration of PCa cells by targeting the miR‑373‑3p/TGF‑β‑R2/SMAD axis.

LncRNA DARS-AS1 aggravates the growth and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma via regulating the miR-3200-5p-Cytoskeleton associated protein 2 (CKAP2) axis

Accumulating signs have found that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) contribute to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here, we probed the effect and mechanism of lncRNA DARS-AS1 in HCC. The profiles of DARS-AS1 and Cytoskeleton associated protein 2 (CKAP2) in 50 HCC tissues and non-tumor tissues were examined by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). DARS-AS1 and CKAP2 overexpression and/or knockdown cell models were established. The proliferation, apoptosis, invasion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) were determined. CKAP2, and focal adhesion kinase (FAK)-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) was tested by Western blot (WB). The relationship between DARS-AS1 and CKAP2 was predicted by Bioinformatics, and the dual-luciferase reporter assay was applied to verify the targeting association between miR-3200-5p and DARS-AS1 and CKAP2. DARS-AS1 was overexpressed in HCC tissues (vs. that in non-tumor tissues) and was closely correlated with the patients’ tumor stage. DARS-AS1 facilitated HCC cell proliferation and hampered apoptosis. HCC cell migration and EMT were enhanced by DARS-AS1. DARS-AS1 up-regulated CKAP2, which aggravated HCC. Further investigation illustrated that either DARS-AS1 or CKAP2 activated FAK-ERK pathway, and miR-3200-5p was competitively restrained by DARS-AS1. miR-3200-5p exerted tumor-suppressive effects in HCC and inactivated CKAP2 and FAK-ERK pathway. All in all, this study corroborates that DARS-AS1 facilitates HCC proliferation and metastasis by regulating miR-3200-5p-mediated CKAP2, which provides a potential target for HCC diagnosis and treatment.

Abbreviations: CCK-8: cell counting kit-8; CKAP2: Cytoskeleton associated protein 2; cDNA:complementary DNA; DAPI: 4ʹ,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole; DARS-AS1: DARS1 antisense RNA 1; DEPC: diethyl pyrocarbonate; DMEM-F12: Dulbecco’s minimal essential medium/Ham’s-F12; EMT: epithelial-mesenchymal transition; ERK: extracellular signal-regulated kinase; FAK: focal adhesion kinase; FBS: fetal bovine serum; GAPDH: glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase; HCC: hepatocellular carcinoma; HE: hematoxylin-eosin; IHC: Immunohistochemistry; LIHC: Liver hepatocellular carcinoma; lncRNAs: long noncoding RNAs; MIAT: lncRNA myocardial infarction-related transcripts; MT: Mutant; NC: negative control; PBS: phosphate-buffered saline; PMSF: Phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride; PVDF: polyvinylidene difluoride; RT: room temperature; RT-qPCR: real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction; SDS-PAGE: sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis; SPF: specific pathogen-free; TMAP: tumor-associated microtubule-associated protein; TUNEL: TdT-mediated dUTP nick end labeling; V: volume; WT: wild type.

The role of N-cadherin/c-Jun/NDRG1 axis in the progression of prostate cancer

The dysregulation of androgen receptor (AR) signaling is a critical event in the progression of prostate cancer (PCa) and hormone therapy consisting of androgen deprivation (ADT) or AR inhibition is therefore used to treat advanced cases. It is known that N-cadherin becomes upregulated following ADT and can directly induce PCa transformation to the castration-resistant stage (CRPC). However, the relationship between AR and N-cadherin is unclear and may promote better understanding of CRPC pathogenesis and progression. Here, we demonstrate a new axis of N-cadherin/c-Jun/N-myc downstream regulated gene 1 (NDRG1) that N-cadherin promotes c-Jun expression and suppresses NDRG1 to promote invasion and migration of PCa cells through epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT). Targeting N-cadherin in combination with enzalutamide (ENZ) treatment synergistically suppressed PC3 cell proliferation in vivo and in vitro. Further studies showed that compared to lower Gleason score (GS) (GS < 7) cases, high GS (GS > 7) cases exhibited elevated N-cadherin expression and reduced NDRG1 expression, corroborating our in vitro observations. We further demonstrate that c-Jun, AR, and DNA methyltransferase-1 (DNMT1) form a complex in the 12-O-tetradecanoyl phorbol-13-acetate (TPA) response elements (TREs) region of the NDRG1 promoter, which suppresses NDRG1 transcription through DNA hypermethylation. In conclusion, we demonstrate an underlying mechanism for how N-cadherin collaborates with AR and NDRG1 to promote CRPC progression. Controlling N-cadherin/c-Jun/NDRG1 axis may help to overcome resistance to commonly used hormone therapy to improve long-term patient outcomes.

LncRNA GSTM3TV2 Promotes Cell Proliferation and Invasion via miR-597/FOSL2 Axis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Mounting evidence has recently shown that role of long noncoding RNA is critical in many human cancers. lncRNA GSTM3TV2 was first proven to play a vital role in pancreatic cancer. However, the mechanism of lncRNA GSTM3TV2 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is still uncovered. Here, we object to distinguish the expression of lncRNA GSTM3TV2 and reveal its mechanistic relationship with HCC. We observed that the expression of lncRNA GSTM3TV2 and FOSL2 were upregulated in HCC. Knockdown of lncRNA GSTM3TV2 significantly inhibited cell proliferation. Meanwhile, the migration and invasion of HCC cells were greatly decreased by the downregulated lncRNA GSTM3TV2. The luciferase reporter assays showed that lncRNA GSTM3TV2 could be directly bound to miR-597, and the level of miR-597 was also decreased in the tumor tissues. lncRNA GSTM3TV2 could stabilize FOSL2 expression, resulting in the oncogenic properties of lncRNA GSTM3TV2 in HCC. Our study indicated the oncogenic activities of lncRNA GSTM3TV2 and emphasized the role of the miR-597/FOSL2 signaling pathway.

Keep your eyes peeled for long noncoding RNAs: Explaining their boundless role in cancer metastasis, drug resistance, and clinical application

Cancer metastasis and drug resistance are two major obstacles in the treatment of cancer and therefore, the leading cause of cancer-associated mortalities worldwide. Hence, an in-depth understanding of these processes and identification of the underlying key players could help design a better therapeutic regimen to treat cancer. Earlier thought to be merely transcriptional junk and having passive or secondary function, recent advances in the genomic research have unravelled that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play pivotal roles in diverse physiological as well as pathological processes including cancer metastasis and drug resistance. LncRNAs can regulate various steps of the complex metastatic cascade such as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), invasion, migration and metastatic colonization, and also affect the sensitivity of cancer cells to various chemotherapeutic drugs. A substantial body of literature for more than a decade of research evince that lncRNAs can regulate gene expression at different levels such as epigenetic, transcriptional, posttranscriptional, translational and posttranslational levels, depending on their subcellular localization and through their ability to interact with DNA, RNA and proteins. In this review, we mainly focus on how lncRNAs affect cancer metastasis by modulating expression of key metastasis-associated genes at various levels of gene regulation. We also discuss how lncRNAs confer cancer cells either sensitivity or resistance to various chemo-therapeutic drugs via different mechanisms. Finally, we highlight the immense potential of lncRNAs as prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers as well as therapeutic targets in cancer.

lncRNA SNHG11 facilitates prostate cancer progression through the upregulation of IGF‑1R expression and by sponging miR‑184

Long non‑coding RNA (lncRNA) small nucleolar RNA host gene 11 (SNHG11) has been shown to play an important role in the development and progression of numerous types of cancer. However, to the best of our knowledge, the role of SNHG11 in prostate cancer (PCa) development and metastasis remains unclear. Thus, the aim of the present study was to investigate the functional role and molecular mechanisms of SNHG11 in PCa progression. It was revealed that the SNHG11 expression levels were significantly upregulated in PCa tissues, in comparison with those in adjacent normal tissues. Functionally, SNHG11 knockdown significantly suppressed PCa cell proliferation, migration, invasion and metastasis in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, SNHG11 was found to positively regulate insulin‑like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF‑1R) expression by sponging microRNA (miRNA/miR)‑184 in PCa cells. The results of rescue experiments demonstrated that IGF‑1R overexpression reversed the suppressive effects of SNHG11 knockdown on the proliferation, migration and invasion of PCa cells. On the whole, the findings of the present study suggest that SNHG11 expression is upregulated in PCa and that it facilitates PCa progression, at least in part, via the modulation of the miR‑184/IGF‑1R signaling axis.

Benchmarking and Testing Machine Learning Approaches with BARRA:CuRDa, a Curated RNA-Seq Database for Cancer Research

RNA-seq is gradually becoming the dominating technique employed to access the global gene expression in biological samples, allowing more flexible protocols and robust analysis. However, the nature of RNA-seq results imposes new data-handling challenges when it comes to computational analysis. With the increasing employment of machine learning (ML) techniques in biomedical sciences, databases that could provide curated data sets treated with state-of-the-art approaches already adapted to ML protocols, become essential for testing new algorithms. In this study, we present the Benchmarking of ARtificial intelligence Research: Curated RNA-seq Database (BARRA:CuRDa). BARRA:CuRDa was built exclusively for cancer research and is composed of 17 handpicked RNA-seq data sets for Homo sapiens that were gathered from the Gene Expression Omnibus, using rigorous filtering criteria. All data sets were individually submitted to sample quality analysis, removal of low-quality bases and artifacts from the experimental process, removal of ribosomal RNA, and estimation of transcript-level abundance. Moreover, all data sets were tested using standard approaches in the field, which allows them to be used as benchmark to new ML approaches. A feature selection analysis was also performed on each data set to investigate the biological accuracy of basic techniques. Results include genes already related to their specific tumoral tissue a large amount of long noncoding RNA and pseudogenes. BARRA:CuRDa is available at http://sbcb.inf.ufrgs.br/barracurda.

The Role of Sex-specific Long Non-coding RNAs in Cancer Prevention and Therapy

The functions of a large number of non-coding genes in human DNA have yet to be accurately identified. Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) measuring 10 kb or less in length regulates transcription or post-transcriptional events. The lncRNAs have attracted increased attention of researchers in recent years. In this review, we summarize the recently published lncRNAs which are known to influence cancer development and progression. We also discuss recent studies investigating tumor-specific lncRNA expression. These lncRNAs provide very useful information that allows prediction of the degree of malignancy and a survival rate in cancer patients as clinically relevant biomarkers. Because symptoms and progression of cancer differ from onset to death between males and females, it is important to consider the gender of the patient when diagnosing cancer and predicting the progression. Considering the importance of gender difference, we also examine the influence of sex hormones involved in the expression and regulation of lncRNAs as biomarkers. Many of the lncRNAs examined in this review have been studied in cancers occurring in the female or male reproductive organs, but the association between lncRNAs and sex hormones has also been reported in common organs such as the lung, renal and colon. Although lncRNAs have not yet been widely used as definitive cancer indicators, recent studies have demonstrated the potential role of lncRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets reflecting sex-specificity in a number of different cancers.

Long non-coding RNAs correlate with genomic stability in prostate cancer: A clinical outcome and survival analysis

BACKGROUND

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) participate in the regulation of genomic stability. Understanding their biological functions can help us identify the mechanisms of the occurrence and progression of cancers and can provide theoretical guidance and the basis for treatment.

RESULTS

Based on the mutation hypothesis, we proposed a computational framework to identify genomic instability-related lncRNAs. Based on the differentially-expressed lncRNAs (DElncRNAs), we constructed a genomic instability-derived lncRNA signature (GILncSig) to calculate and stratify outcomes in patients with prostate cancer. It is an independent predictor of overall survival. The area under the curve = 0.805. This value may be more significant than the classic prognostic markers TP53 and Speckle-type POZ protein (SPOP) in terms of outcome prediction.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, we conducted a computation approach and resource for mining genome instability-related lncRNAs. It may turn out to be highly significant for genomic instability and customized decision-making for patients with prostate cancer. It also may lead to effective methods and resources to study the molecular mechanism of genomic instability-related lncRNAs.

AS1 expression in prostate cancer and its effects on proliferation and invasion of prostate cancer cells

This paper aimed at investigating AS1 expression in prostate cancer (PCa) and its effects on the proliferation and invasion of prostate cancer cells (PCCs). The prostate tissues and the matched adjacent normal prostate tissues excised and preserved during radical prostatectomy in our hospital were collected. The LncRNA NCK1-AS1 expression was detected. PCa patients were followed up for three years to analyze their prognosis. The correlation of LncRNA NCK1-AS1 expression with clinicopathological features was analyzed. Human normal prostate cells and human PCCs were selected, in which LncRNA NCK1-AS1 expression was tested to screen and then transfect the cells. Cell proliferation, invasion and migration were detected. Cell cycles and apoptosis were analyzed. Compared with the adjacent normal tissues, LncRNA NCK1-AS1 was highly expressed in the prostate cancer tissues. Its expression was remarkably different in those with different stages of TNM and with lymphatic metastasis or not. The prognosis of patients with high LncRNA NCK1-AS1 expression was remarkably poorer than that of those with low expression. Compared with the human normal prostate cells, LncRNA NCK1-AS1 expression in the human PCCs remarkably rose, with the greatest difference in 22Rv1 cells. Compared with the Blank group, cell proliferation and the number of plate cloned cells remarkably reduced in the sh-NCK1-AS1 group. Additionally, in this group, the number of invasive and migratory cells remarkably reduced; the expression of invasion-related protein E-cadherin remarkably rose but that of MMP-2 remarkably reduced; cell cycles were arrested and the expression of cycle-related proteins (CDK4, CDK6, cyclin D1) remarkably reduced; the apoptotic rate and the expression of apoptosis-related protein Bax remarkably rose. LncRNA NCK1-AS1 is highly expressed in PCa, so its down-regulation can inhibit PCCs from proliferating and reduce the number of invasive cells.

Fatty acid β-oxidation promotes breast cancer stemness and metastasis via the miRNA-328-3p-CPT1A pathway

MicroRNAs (miRNA) have been shown to be associated with tumor diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic response. MiR-328-3p plays a significant role in breast cancer growth; however, its actual function and how it modulates specific biological functions is poorly understood. Here, miR-328-3p was significantly downregulated in breast cancer, especially in patients with metastasis. Mitochondrial carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1a (CPT1A) is a downstream target gene in the miR-328-3p-regulated pathway. Furthermore, the miR-328-3p/CPT1A/fatty acid β-oxidation/stemness axis was shown responsible for breast cancer metastasis. Collectively, this study revealed that miR-328-3p is a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of breast cancer patients with metastasis, and also a model for the miRNA-fatty acid β-oxidation-stemness axis, which may assist inunderstanding the cancer stem cell signaling functions of miRNA.

Identification of potential autophagy-associated lncRNA in prostate cancer

Background: Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been linked to autophagy. It is urgent to identify and assess the hub autophagy-associated lncRNA in prostate cancer.

Methods: Differentially expressed lncRNAs associated with autophagy were identified in prostate cancer based on The Cancer Genome Atlas Prostate Adenocarcinoma (TCGA-PRAD) data. An autophagy-mediated competing endogenous RNA network was constructed to screen for autophagy-associated lncRNA, and the preselected lncRNAs were further validated using Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets. Furthermore, a prognostic lncRNA signature was established and assessed. Additionally, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) revealed the underlying molecular mechanisms.

Results: Using a competing endogenous RNA network, 66 differentially expressed lncRNAs associated with autophagy were identified, and the differential expression of 7 lncRNAs were verified using the TCGA-PRAD, GSE21034, and GSE94767 datasets. Additionally, a lncRNA signature associated with autophagy, including MKNK1-AS1 and INE1, was identified as an independent indicator of survival with a C-index of 0.882. The GSEA analysis indicated that several autophagy-related signaling pathways were enriched in different risk groups.

Conclusions: The lncRNAs associated with autophagy were identified, and a prediction model was developed that could be used as a prognostic predictor for prostate cancer, indicating the critical role of lncRNA in the regulation of prostate cancer autophagy regulation.

Androgen Receptor-Related Non-coding RNAs in Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second leading cause of cancer-related death among men in the United States. Androgen receptor (AR) signaling is the dominant oncogenic pathway in PCa and the main strategy of PCa treatment is to control the AR activity. A large number of patients acquire resistance to Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) due to AR aberrant activation, resulting in castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying AR signaling in the PCa is critical to identify new therapeutic targets for PCa patients. The recent advances in high-throughput RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) techniques identified an increasing number of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) that play critical roles through various mechanisms in different diseases. Some ncRNAs have shown great potentials as biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Many ncRNAs have been investigated to regulate PCa through direct association with AR. In this review, we aim to comprehensively summarize recent findings of the functional roles and molecular mechanisms of AR-related ncRNAs as AR regulators or targets in the progression of PCa.

Identification of a Glycolysis-Related LncRNA Signature to Predict Survival in Diffuse Glioma Patients

Glycolysis refers to one of the critical phenotypes of tumor cells, regulating tumor cell phenotypes and generating sufficient energy for glioma cells. A range of noticeable genes [such as isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH), phosphatase, and tensin homolog (PTEN), or Ras] overall impact cell proliferation, invasion, cell cycle, and metastasis through glycolysis. Moreover, long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) are increasingly critical to disease progression. Accordingly, this study aimed to identify whether glycolysis-related LncRNAs have potential prognostic value for glioma patients. First, co-expression network between glycolysis-related protein-coding RNAs and LncRNAs was established according to Pearson correlation (Filter: |r| > 0.5 & P < 0.001). Furthermore, based on univariate Cox regression, the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) analysis and multivariate Cox regression, a predictive model were built; vital glycolysis-related LncRNAs were identified; the risk score of every single patient was calculated. Moreover, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), GO and KEGG enrichment analysis were performed to assess the effect of risk score among glioma patients. 685 cases (including RNA sequences and clinical information) from two different cohorts of the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) database were acquired. Based on the mentioned methods, the risk score calculation formula was yielded as follows: Risk score = (0.19 × EXP_FOXD2-AS1) + (−0.27 × EXP_AC062021.1) + (−0.16 × EXP_AF131216.5) + (−0.05 × EXP_LINC00844) + (0.11 × EXP_CRNDE) + (0.35 × EXP_LINC00665). The risk score was independently related to prognosis, and every single mentioned LncRNAs was significantly related to the overall survival of patients. Moreover, functional enrichment analysis indicated that the biologic process of the high-risk score was mainly involved in the cell cycle and DNA replication signaling pathway. This study confirmed that glycolysis-related LncRNAs significantly impact poor prognosis and short overall survival and may act as therapeutic targets in the future.

Sp1-mediated up-regulation of lnc00152 promotes invasion and metastasis of retinoblastoma cells via the miR-30d/SOX9/ZEB2 pathway

PURPOSE

Previously, we found that long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) MEG3 may act as a tumour suppressor in retinoblastoma. Overall, however, little is known about the role of lncRNAs in retinoblastoma. Here, we aimed to determine the expression and clinical significance of lnc00152 in retinoblastoma.

METHODS

Lnc00152 and its downstream targets were selected using GEO datasets. The level of lnc00152 in primary patient samples was determined using RT-qPCR. Odds ratios of invasion and metastasis were calculated using logistic regression analysis. Recurrence-free survival was assessed using Cox regression analysis. Scratch wound healing, transwell and tumorigenesis assays were used to determine migration and invasion abilities of retinoblastoma cells in vitro and in vivo. Levels of EMT-related proteins were measured using Western blotting. Binding sites between lnc00152 and its targets were validated using dual-luciferase reporter and RNA pull-down assays. Lnc00152 activating transcription factors were determined using ChIP assays.

RESULTS

We found that Lnc00152 was significantly up-regulated in retinoblastoma tumour tissues, and was a risk factor for tumour invasion, metastasis and recurrence. Lnc00152 overexpressing retinoblastoma cells exhibited a tendency to transform into mesenchymal cells, with significantly increased migration and invasion capacities, significantly decreased E-cadherin expression levels, and significantly increased N-cadherin, SOX9 and ZEB2 expression levels. In addition, we found that lnc00152, which was activated by Sp1, could inhibit miR-30d as an endogenous miRNA 'sponge', thereby regulating the expression of SOX9 and ZEB2.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data indicate that Lnc00152 may be associated with retinoblastoma invasion, metastasis and prognosis. In addition, we conclude that Lnc00152, which can be activated by Sp1, can induce EMT via the miR-30d/SOX9/ZEB2 pathway and, by doing so, promote the invasion and metastasis of retinoblastoma cells.

lncRNA MCM3AP-AS1 inhibits the progression of colorectal cancer via the miR-19a-3p/FOXF2 axis

BACKGROUND

Long non-coding RNA MCM3AP antisense RNA 1 (lncRNA MCM3AP-AS1) has a regulatory role in the development of diverse malignancies, whereas its role and mechanism in colorectal cancer (CRC) is not yet clear.

METHODS

The relative expression of MCM3AP-AS1, miR-19a-3p and forkhead box F2 (FOXF2) mRNA in 53 cases of CRC and its adjacent normal tissues, human normal colonic mucosal cells (FHC cells) and CRC cell lines was examined by a quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and the changes of cell multiplication and migration were examined by the cell counting kit-8 method, EdU test, and scratch-healing test, respectively. Bioinformatics, dual-luciferase reporter gene assay and a RNA immunoprecipitation experiment were adopted to predict and verify the relationship between MCM3AP-AS1 and miR-19a-3p; bioinformatics and dual-luciferase reporter gene assay were adopted to predict and verify the relationship between miR-19a-3p and FOXF2. Western blotting was executed to examine the effects of MCM3AP-AS1 overexpression or knockdown on FOXF2 protein expression.

RESULTS

MCM3AP-AS1 expression was down-modulated in CRC, and its dysregulation was linked to unfavorable pathological characteristics. MCM3AP-AS1 significantly impeded the multiplication and migration of CRC cells. MCM3AP-AS1 was recognized as a molecular sponge to suppress miR-19a-3p expression, and FOXF2 was a target gene of miR-19a-3p. MCM3AP-AS1 positively modulated FOXF2 expression, and its biological effect was dependent the on miR-19a-3p/FOXF2 axis.

CONCLUSIONS

MCM3AP-AS1 can inhibit CRC promoting by modulating the miR-19a-3p/FOXF2 axis.

An integrated analysis of enhancer RNAs in glioma and a validation of their prognostic values

Glioma, a highly aggressive neuroepithelial malignant brain tumor, is associated with high disability and recurrence rates. Enhancer RNA (eRNA) plays a significant role in tumor proliferation and metastasis; however, their functions in gliomas need further evaluation. We used the computational pipeline, PreSTIGE, to predict tissue-specific enhancer-derived RNAs and the underlying regulatory genes. Using data retrieved from the TCGA and CGGA databases, a LASSO regression analysis and multiCox proportional hazards regression analyses were performed to determine the hub eRNAs associated with glioma prognosis. Quantitative reverse transcription PCR was performed on the glioma samples to evaluate the expression characteristics of the identified hub eRNAs. To construct a risk signature, we selected three eRNAs, including CRNDE, MRPS31P5, and LINC00844, for their significant prognostic values. The predictive value of the risk signature was validated using the CGGA and Rembrandt cohorts. Apart from the risk signature, the nomogram performed well at predicting OS in glioma patients. An eRNA-target gene regulatory network was established, which we evaluated using a target gene enrichment analysis. Pathway and gene ontology (GO) analyses demonstrated that the risk signature is associated with mRNA processing and spliceosome in glioma. Furthermore, we found that hub eRNAs potentially regulate the expressions of numerous splicing factors, such as MOV10 and SEC31B, and are correlated with prognosis-associated alteration splicing (AS). In conclusion, we established a risk signature that comprises three eRNAs, which can accurately be utilized as targets to predict prognosis in glioma patients.

A novel long non-coding RNA PCLN16 facilitates androgen receptor signaling in prostate cancer

The prostate cancer (PCa) poses serious threat to men's health. The androgen receptor (AR) is essential for normal prostate development and prostate cancer progression. We identified a novel lncRNA PCLN16 which is significantly correlated with AR signaling during prostate cancer progression. The AR-regulated PCLN16 was abundantly overexpressed in localized or metastatic prostate cancer tissues and AR-dependent cell lines. PCLN16 silence suppressed AR signaling and tumor growth. PCLN16 interacted with Huntingtin interacting protein 1 (HIP1) transcript to reduce HIP1 degradation. Therefore, PCLN16 could augment AR signaling via a novel positive feedback loop. Our experiments support an oncogenic role for PCLN16 and suggest that PCLN16 might serve as a potential target for therapeutic intervention.

Unraveling the dark matter, long non-coding RNAs, in male reproductive diseases: A narrative review

Recent advances in human transcriptome have revealed the fundamental and functional roles of long non-coding RNA in the susceptibility to diverse diseases and pathological conditions. They participate in wide range of biological processes such as the modulating of chromatin structure, transcription, translation, and post-translation modification. In addition, based on their unique expression profiles and their association with clinical abnormalities such as those of related to male reproductive diseases, they can be used to develop therapeutic methods and biomarkers for screening of the diseases. In this study, we will review the identified lncRNAs and their molecular functions in the pathogenesis of male reproductive diseases such as prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia, prostatitis, testicular cancer, varicocele, and sperm abnormalities.

Linc00475 promotes the progression of glioma by regulating the miR-141-3p/YAP1 axis

Glioma is the most prevalent and lethal primary brain tumour. Abundant long non‐coding RNAs ( lncRNAs) are aberrant and play crucial roles in the oncogenesis of glioma. The exact functions of linc00475 in glioma remain blurred. Here, we analysed the expression levels of linc00475 by qRT‐PCR and discovered that linc00475 was up‐regulated in glioma and predicted a poor prognosis in patients with glioma. Besides, inhibiting linc00475 restrained the progression of glioma in vitro and in vivo. Further experiments confirmed that linc00475 regulated the progression of glioma by acting as a sponge for miR‐141‐3p. Moreover, we detected the binding sites of linc00475 and miR‐141‐3p, the YAP1‐ 3′UTR and miR‐141‐3p by luciferase reporters. The rescue assays confirmed that inhibiting linc00475 restrained the progression of glioma through the miR‐141‐3p/YAP1 pathway. Collectively, our research demonstrates the key roles of linc00475 in glioma, which could be a promising therapeutic target.

Non-coding RNAs regulating androgen receptor signaling pathways in prostate cancer

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common malignancies for men worldwide, and abnormal activation of the androgen receptor (AR) signaling plays an important role in the progression of PCa. However, in the androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), AR signaling inevitably recovered, as a result, exploring novel regulating mechanisms is of great importance. Recently, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, circular RNAs, could be involved in the progression of PCa, and participate in the regulatory network of AR signaling in a variety of ways. This will help to identify novel molecular mechanisms to promote the development of PCa and find new potential therapeutic targets. In this review, we provide a synopsis of the latest research relating to ncRNAs and associated AR signaling in PCa.

The long non-coding RNA PCAL7 promotes prostate cancer by strengthening androgen receptor signaling

BACKGROUND

The prostate cancer (PCa) has been a global problem to men health. Notably, the androgen receptor (AR) is essential for both normal development of prostate and prostate cancer progression.

METHODS

The RNA sequencing was used to identify the novel long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) termed PCAL7. The RT-qPCR was performed to quantify PCAL7 expression. Migration and proliferation assays were used to examine the function of PCAL7. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) was used to determine subcellular localization.

RESULTS

By RNA sequencing, the differentially expressed lncRNAs were identified (top 10 upregulated lncRNAs: PCAL7, AC083843.1, CTC-338M12.3, RP11-443B7.1, RP11-1008C21.2, RN7SL329P, RP4-773N10.4, RP11-264B17.2, KB-1507C5.2, and RP11-20B24.6; top 10 downregulated lncRNAs: RP11-77H9.2, RAB11FIP1P1, AP001625.6, CTA-217C2.1, RP11-603J24.7, RP11-315I20.1, AC092839.1, RP4-758J18.10, RP11-259O2.3, and HMGN2P17). PCAL7 was the lncRNA with the highest fold upregulation and significantly correlated with AR signaling during prostate cancer progression. The AR-regulated PCAL7 was abundantly overexpressed in prostate cancer tissues and AR-dependent cell lines. PCAL7 knockdown inhibited cell migration and proliferation. Consistently, the migration and proliferation were promoted by PCAL7 overexpression. PCAL7 depletion via antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) markedly suppressed AR signaling and tumor growth. Mechanistically, PCAL7 interacted with Huntingtin-interacting protein 1 (HIP1) to stabilize HIP1. Therefore, PCAL7 could advance AR signaling via a novel positive feedback loop.

CONCLUSION

Our experiments support an oncogenic role for PCAL7 which promotes prostate cancer progression suggesting PCAL7 may serve as a potential therapeutic target.

PVT1 induces NSCLC cell migration and invasion by regulating IL-6 via sponging miR-760

Non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) accounts for approximately 80% of lung cancers with a high metastatic potential. Elucidating the mechanism of NSCLC metastasis will provide new promising targets for NSCLC therapy and benefit its prognosis. Plasmacytoma variant translocation 1 (PVT1) has been proven to be overexpressed in NSCLC. Although the oncogenic role of PVT1 in NSCLC has been reported, its mechanism remains unclear. Here, we verified that the knockdown of PVT1 inhibited NSCLC cell migration and invasion, and that its inhibitory role on A549 cells and H1299 cells was antagonized by interleukin-6 (IL-6) treatment. The results revealed that PVT1 regulates IL-6 by sponging miR-760 and identified the binding site of miR-760 in the 3'-UTR of IL-6. In conclusion, a new mechanism was revealed, wherein PVT1 regulates NSCLC cell migration and invasion via miR-760/IL-6, suggesting PVT1/miR-760/IL-6 as promising prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for NSCLC metastasis.