MiR-199a-5p Inhibits the Growth and Metastasis of Colorectal Cancer Cells by Targeting ROCK1

Exosomes from adipose-derived stem cells inhibits skin cancer progression via miR-199a-5p/SOX4

Although miR-199a-5p is linked to the development of numerous cancers, its regulatory role in skin cancer is unclear. In this work, the impact of miR-199a-5p produced by adipose-derived stem cells on malignant melanoma skin cancer was investigated.30 pair tumor tissues and adjacent tissues were obtained from skin cancer patients. Adipose-derived stem cell (ADSCs) were isolated from adipose tissues harvested from healthy subjects. The mRNA relative expression was evaluated via qRT-PCR. Cell proliferation ability was measured via CCK-8 assay. Apoptosis was evaluated via flow cytometry. The connection between miR-199a-5p and SOX4 was confirmed via luciferase reporter assay. Western blot was conducted to evaluate protein expression. MiR-199a-5p was higher expressed in ADSCs exosomes and was lower expressed in skin cancer tissues and cells. ADSCs-derived exosomes inhibited cell invasion of skin cancer. MiR-199a-5p inhibitor enhanced cell viability and invasion. In addition, miR-199a-5p inhibitor suppressed cell apoptosis. MiR-199a-5p NC transfected ADSCs inhibited cell viability and invasion while miR-199a-5p mimic transfected ADSCs further inhibited cell viability and invasion. In addition, miR-199a-5p NC transfected ADSCs enhanced cell apoptosis while miR-199a-5p mimic transfected ADSCs further enhanced cell apoptosis. Luciferase supported the targetscan prediction that miR-199a-5p might control SOX4 expression. SOX4 expression was noticeably lower in the miR-199a-5p mimic group.Exosomes from adipose-derived stem cells inhibited skin cancer progression via miR-199a-5p/SOX4.

Implication of non-coding RNA-mediated ROCK1 regulation in various diseases

Rho Associated Coiled-Coil Containing Protein Kinase 1 (ROCK1) is a protein serine/threonine kinase which is activated upon binding with the GTP-bound form of Rho. This protein can modulate actin-myosin contraction and stability. Moreover, it has a crucial role in the regulation of cell polarity. Therefore, it participates in modulation of cell morphology, regulation of expression of genes, cell proliferation and differentiation, apoptotic processes as well as oncogenic processes. Recent studies have highlighted interactions between ROCK1 and several non-coding RNAs, namely microRNAs, circular RNAs and long non-coding RNAs. Such interactions can be a target of medications. In fact, it seems that the interactions are implicated in therapeutic response to several medications. In the current review, we aimed to explain the impact of these interactions in the pathoetiology of cancers as well as non-malignant disorders.

miR-199a-3p/5p regulate tumorgenesis via targeting Rheb in non-small cell lung cancer

Lung cancer is one of the deadliest cancers, in which non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounting for 85% and has a low survival rate of 5 years. Dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) can participate in tumor regulation and many major diseases. In this study, we found that miR-199a-3p/5p were down-expressed in NSCLC tissue samples, cell lines, and the patient sample database. MiR-199a-3p/5p overexpression could significantly suppress cell proliferation, migration ability and promote apoptosis. Through software prediction, ras homolog enriched in brain (Rheb) was identified as a common target of miR-199a-3p and miR-199a-5p, which participated in regulating mTOR signaling pathway. The same effect of inhibiting NSCLC appeared after down-regulating the expression of Rheb. Furthermore, our findings revealed that miR-199a can significantly inhibit tumor growth and metastasis in vivo, which fully demonstrates that miR-199a plays a tumor suppressive role in NSCLC. In addition, miR-199a-3p/5p has been shown to enhance the sensitivity of gefitinib to EGFR-T790M in NSCLC. Collectively, these results prove that miR-199a-3p/5p can act as cancer suppressor genes to inhibit the mTOR signaling pathway by targeting Rheb, which in turn inhibits the regulatory process of NSCLC. Thus, to investigate the anti-cancer effect of pre-miR-199a/Rheb/mTOR axis in NSCLC, miR-199a-3p and miR-199a-5p have the potential to become an early diagnostic marker or therapeutic target for NSCLC.

The Therapeutic Potential of Milk Extracellular Vesicles on Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer remains one of the leading prevalent cancers in the world and is the fourth most common cause of death from cancer. Unfortunately, the currently utilized chemotherapies fail in selectively targeting cancer cells and cause harm to healthy cells, which results in profound side effects. Researchers are focused on developing anti-cancer targeted medications, which is essential to making them safer, more effective, and more selective and to maximizing their therapeutic benefits. Milk-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) from camels and cows have attracted much attention as a natural substitute product that effectively suppresses a wide range of tumor cells. This review sheds light on the biogenesis, methods of isolation, characterization, and molecular composition of milk EVs as well as the therapeutic potentials of milk EVs on colorectal cancer.

Circulating miR-627-5p and miR-199a-5p are promising diagnostic biomarkers of colorectal neoplasia

BACKGROUND

Early detection of colorectal neoplasms, including colorectal cancers (CRCs) and advanced colorectal adenomas (AAs), is crucial to improve patient survival. Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) in peripheral blood are emerging as noninvasive diagnostic markers for multiple cancers, but their potential for screening colorectal neoplasms remains ambiguous.

AIM

To identify candidate circulating cell-free miRNAs as diagnostic biomarkers in patients with colorectal neoplasms.

METHODS

The study was divided into three phases: (1) Candidate miRNAs were selected from three public miRNA datasets using differential gene expression analysis methods; (2) an independent set of serum samples from 60 CRC patients, 60 AA patients and 30 healthy controls (HCs) was included and analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction for miRNAs, and their diagnostic power was detected by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis; and (3) the origin and function of miRNAs in cancer patients were investigated in cancer cell lines and tumor tissues.

RESULTS

Based on bioinformatics analysis, miR-627-5p and miR-199a-5p were differentially expressed in both the serum and tissues of patients with colorectal neoplasms and HCs and were selected for further study. Further validation in an independent cohort revealed that both circulating miR-627-5p and miR-199a-5p were sequentially increased from HCs and AAs to CRCs. The diagnostic power of miR-672-5p yielded an area under the curve (AUC) value of 0.90, and miR-199a-5p had an AUC of 0.83 in discriminating colorectal neoplasms from HCs. A logistic integrated model combining miR-199a-5p and miR-627-5p exhibited a higher diagnostic performance than either miRNA. Additionally, the levels of serum miR-627-5p and miR-199a-5p in CRC patients were significantly lower after surgery than before surgery and the expression of both miRNAs was increased with culture time in the culture media of several CRC cell lines, suggesting that the upregulated serum expression of both miRNAs in CRC might be tumor derived. Furthermore, in vitro experiments revealed that miR-627-5p and miR-199a-5p acted as tumor suppressors in CRC cells.

CONCLUSION

Serum levels of miR-199a-5p and miR-627-5p were markedly increased in patients with colorectal neoplasms and showed strong potential as minimally invasive biomarkers for the early screening of colorectal neoplasms.

miRNAs Can Affect Intestinal Epithelial Barrier in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

The most obvious pathological characterization of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is intestinal epithelium erosion and severe inflammation invasion. Micro-ribonucleic acids (miRNA or microRNA), single-stranded noncoding RNAs of ~22 nucleotides, have been considered as the potential therapeutic targets in the pathogenesis of IBD. Many previous studies have focused on the mechanisms that miRNAs use to regulate inflammation, immunity, and microorganisms in IBD. The review highlights in detail the findings of miRNAs in the intestinal epithelial barrier of IBD, and focuses on their gene targets, signaling pathways associated with IBD, and some potential therapies. It will be beneficial for the elucidation of the interaction between miRNAs and the intestinal epithelial barrier in IBD and provide a theoretical reference for preventing and treating IBD in the future.

miR-199-5p regulates spermiogenesis at the posttranscriptional level via targeting Tekt1 in allotriploid crucian carp

BACKGROUND

Sperm abnormalities are one of the primary factors leading to male sterility, but their pathogenesis is still unclear. Although miRNAs are suggested to exert important roles in the regulation of spermatogenesis at both transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels, little is currently known regarding the regulation of sperm flagella assembly by microRNAs (miRNAs). The role of miRNAs in the development of sperm abnormalities in sterile triploid fish has not been studied.

RESULTS

In this study, we found that miR-199-5p was widely expressed in all detected tissues of different-ploidy crucian carp. As one of the testis-specific candidate markers, Tekt1 was predominantly expressed in the testis. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analyses showed that the expression trend of miR-199-5p was exactly opposite to that of Tekt1. Through bioinformatics analysis, we identified a putative miR-199-5p binding site in the Tekt1 mRNA. We further identified Tekt1 as a target of miR-199-5p using luciferase reporter assay. Finally, we confirmed that miR-199-5p was necessary for sperm flagellar assembly and spermatogenesis in vivo via intraperitoneal injection of miR-199-5p antagomir or agomir in diploid red crucian carp. Moreover, miR-199-5p gain-of-function could lead to spermatids apoptosis and abnormal spermatozoa structure, which is similar to that of allotriploid crucian carp.

CONCLUSIONS

Our studies suggested that abnormally elevated miR-199-5p inhibited the sperm flagella formation in spermiogenesis by negatively regulating the expression of Tekt1, thereby causing sperm abnormalities of male allotriploid crucian carp.

miR-199a-5p Plays a Pivotal Role on Wound Healing via Suppressing VEGFA and ROCK1 in Diabetic Ulcer Foot

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a growing health problem. As a common complication of DM, diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) results in delayed wound healing and is a leading cause of nontraumatic amputation. miR-199a-5p, a short noncoding RNA, had abnormal expression in DFU wound tissues. The expression of miR-199a-5p was significantly increased in DFU wound tissues, skin tissues of diabetic rats, and high glucose-induced cells. Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) and Rho-associated kinase 1 (ROCK1) are directly targets of miR-199a-5p. Inhibiting the expression of miR-199a-5p alleviated the inhibition of VEGFA and ROCK1, thereby rescued impaired proliferation and migration of HG-induced cells, and restored the normal function of the cells to some extent. In diabetic rats, inhibition of miR-199a-5p significantly increased the expression of VEGFA and ROCK1, significantly promoted wound healing, and rescued impaired wound healing. miR-199a-5p and its targets showed therapeutic effect on diabetic wounds.

The regulation of autophagy by the miR-199a-5p/p62 axis was a potential mechanism of small cell lung cancer cisplatin resistance

BACKGROUND

Autophagy has been found to be involved in the multidrug resistance (MDR) of cancers, but whether it is associated with resistance of small cell lung cancer (SCLC) has not been studied. Here, we hypothesized that a potential autophagy-regulating miRNA, miR-199a-5p, regulated cisplatin-resistant SCLC.

METHODS

We validated the MDR of H446/EP using CCK-8 and LDH. We tested the binding of miR-199a-5p to p62 using the Dual-Luciferase assay and validated the association of miR-199a-5p and p62 in SCLC samples. We overexpressed (OE) and knocked down (KD) miR-199a-5p in H446 and H446/EP and determined the expression of miR-199a-5p, autophagy-related proteins, and the formation of autophagolysosomes using QPCR, western blotting, and MDC staining respectively. These results were validated in an orthotopic H446 mouse model of SCLC.

RESULTS

H446/EP was resistant to cisplatin, etoposide, paclitexal, epirubicin, irinotecan, and vinorelbine. Exposure of cisplatin at 5 μg/ml for 24 h increased LC3II/LC3I, ATG5, p62, and the formation of autophagolysosomes in H446 cells, but not in H446/EP cells. The expression of miR-199a-5p was up-regulated in H446/EP compared to H446. MiR-199a-5p directly targeted the p62 gene. The expression of miR-199a-5p and p62 were correlated in SCLC samples. In H446 and H69PR, the OE of miR-199a-5p increased LC3II/LC3I, p62, and the formation of autophagolysosomes, but not ATG5, while the KD of miR-199a-5p decreased p62, but did not affect LC3II/LC3I, ATG5, and the formation of autophagolysosomes. In H446/EP, the OE of miR-199a-5p decreased p62 only. These results were generally consistent to results in the animal tumor samples.

CONCLUSIONS

The regulation of autophagy by the miR-199a-5p/p62 axis was a potential mechanism of small cell lung cancer cisplatin resistance.

miRNA-448 Regulates the Development of Glioblastoma (GBM) by Regulating Rho-Associated Protein Kinase 1

Background

Glioblastoma (GBM) is an aggressive adult brain tumor that poses a huge threat to people's health. Previous studies have shown that microRNAs (miRNAs) are important regulators in the progression of GBM. However, the role of miR-448 in GBM remains largely unknown. Therefore, the regulatory mechanism of miR-448 in the development of GBM is elucidated in this study.

Methods

The protein and mRNA expressions of miR-448 and ROCK1 were measured by Western blot analysis and RT-qPCR. Cell proliferation, migration, and invasion were detected by CCK-8 assay and Transwell assay. The relationship between miR-448 and ROCK1 was probed by luciferase reporter assay.

Results

miR-448 expression was downregulated in GBM tissues and cells. And poor clinical outcomes of GBM patients were related to miR-448 downregulation. Functionally, overexpression of miR-448 restrained cell viability, migration, and invasion in GBM. Additionally, miR-448 reduced ROCK1 expression by binding to its 3'-UTR. Moreover, knockdown of ROCK1 inhibited the progression of GBM. Furthermore, overexpression of ROCK1 abolished the antitumor effect of miR-448 in GBM.

Conclusion

miR-448 restrained cell viability, invasion, and migration in GBM by inhibiting ROCK1 expression.

Changes in Exosomal miRNA Composition in Thyroid Cancer Cells after Prolonged Exposure to Real Microgravity in Space

As much as space travel and exploration have been a goal since humankind looked up to the stars, the challenges coming with it are manifold and difficult to overcome. Therefore, researching the changes the human organism undergoes following exposure to weightlessness, on a cellular or a physiological level, is imperative to reach the goal of exploring space and new planets. Building on the results of our CellBox-1 experiment, where thyroid cancer cells were flown to the International Space Station, we are now taking advantage of the newest technological opportunities to gain more insight into the changes in cell–cell communication of these cells. Analyzing the exosomal microRNA composition after several days of microgravity might elucidate some of the proteomic changes we have reported earlier. An array scan of a total of 754 miRNA targets revealed more than 100 differentially expressed miRNAs in our samples, many of which have been implicated in thyroid disease in other studies.

Effect of Gambogic Acid on miR-199a-3p Expression and Cell Biological Behavior in Colorectal Cancer Cells

Colorectal cancer (CC), as a malignancy threatening life and health, has a rising incidence in recent years. It has been reported that gambogic acid (GA) has antitumor activity in various tumors, but its effect on CC remains to be elucidated. In this investigation, the influence of GA nanoparticles on microRNA-199a-3p (miR-199a-3p) in CC was analyzed to provide a reliable reference for future clinical practice. Through PCR detection, we first determined that miR-199a-3p presented low expression in CC and had a significant effect in predicting the onset and prognosis of CC. Through in vitro experiments, the enhanced CC cell viability after inhibition was determined; however, decreased cell viability and increased miR-199a-3p level were also observed after GA nanoparticles addition. Hence, GA nanoparticles may influence CC cell biological behaviors by modulating miR-199a-3p, providing a novel treatment scheme for CC in the future.

MicroRNA‑199a‑5p regulates FOXC2 to control human vascular smooth muscle cell phenotypic switch

Varicose veins are among the most common disorders of the vascular system; however, the pathogenesis of varicose veins remains unclear. The present study aimed to investigate the roles of microRNA (miR)‑199a‑5p in varicose veins and in the phenotypic transition of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Bioinformatics analysis confirmed that miR‑199a‑5p had target sites on the forkhead box C2 (FOXC2) 3'‑untranslated region. Reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR (RT‑qPCR) and western blotting were used to detect the expression levels of miR‑199a‑5p and FOXC2 in varicose vein and normal great saphenous vein tissues. Cell Counting Kit‑8 and Transwell migration assays were performed to validate the effects of miR‑199a‑5p on VSMCs. Contractile markers, such as smooth muscle 22α, calponin, smooth muscle actin and myosin heavy chain 11 were used to detect phenotypic transition. RT‑qPCR revealed that miR‑199a‑5p was downregulated in varicose veins compared with expression in normal great saphenous veins, whereas FOXC2 was upregulated in varicose veins. In addition, biomarkers of the VSMC contractile phenotype were downregulated in varicose veins. Overexpression of miR‑199a‑5p by mimics suppressed VSMC proliferation and migration, whereas depletion of miR‑199a‑5p enhanced VSMC proliferation and migration. Notably, the effects caused by miR‑199a‑5p could be reversed by FOXC2 overexpression. Dual luciferase reporter analysis confirmed that FOXC2 was a target of miR‑199a‑5p. In conclusion, miR‑199a‑5p may be a novel regulator of phenotypic switching in VSMCs by targeting FOXC2 during varicose vein formation.

CircRNA DUSP16 Knockdown Suppresses Colorectal Cancer Progression by Regulating the miR-432-5p/E2F6 Axis

Background

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play critical roles in various types of cancer. The aim of the present study was to investigate the function and underlying mechanism of CircRNA DUSP16 (circDUSP16) in colorectal cancer (CRC) development.

Materials and Methods

The expression levels of circDUSP16, microRNA-432-5p (miR-432-5p), and E2F transcription factor 6 (E2F6) were measured by RT-qPCR. Cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis were investigated by CCK-8, Transwell, and flow cytometry assays. Western blot analysis was used to evaluate the levels of the pro-apoptotic protein (Bax and cleaved-caspase 3) and the anti-apoptotic protein (Bcl-2). Luciferase reporter assay and RIP assay were used to analyze the association between miR-432-5p and circDUSP16 or E2F6. A xenograft tumor model was employed to explore the effect of circDUSP16 on CRC tumor growth in vivo.

Results

CircDUSP16 expression was upregulated in CRC tissues and cell lines. High circDUSP16 expression was correlated with low survival rate. Furthermore, circDUSP16 knockdown repressed cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and induced apoptosis in CRC. CircDUSP16 caused a negative regulation in miR-432-5p expression. In addition, E2F6 expression was elevated in CRC tissues. Inhibition of miR-432-5p promoted the proliferative and metastatic activity of CRC cells and inhibited the induction of apoptosis. Inhibition of E2F6 expression partially abolished the effects caused by miR-432-5p depletion. Moreover, circDUSP16 upregulated E2F6 expression by reducing miR-432-5p expression. Furthermore, circDUSP16 silencing repressed CRC tumor growth in vivo.

Conclusion

The results supported the hypothesis that circDUSP16 knockdown suppressed CRC progression by regulating the miR-432-5p/E2F6 axis, suggesting that the circDUSP16/miR-432-5p/E2F6 network may be a potential therapeutic target for CRC.

A Potential Role for Integrin-Linked Kinase in Colorectal Cancer Growth and Progression via Regulating Senescence and Immunity

Integrin-linked kinase (ILK) has been implicated as a molecular driver and mediator in both inflammation and tumorigenesis of the colon. ILK functions as an adaptor and mediator protein linking the extracellular matrix with downstream signaling pathways. ILK is broadly expressed in many human tissues and cells. It is also overexpressed in many cancers, including colorectal cancer (CRC). Inflammation, as evidenced by inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), is one of the highest risk factors for initiating CRC. This has led to the hypothesis that targeting ILK therapeutically could have potential in CRC, as it regulates different cellular processes associated with CRC development and progression as well as inflammation in the colon. A number of studies have indicated an ILK function in senescence, a cellular process that arrests the cell cycle while maintaining active metabolism and transcription. Senescent cells produce different secretions collectively known as the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). The SASP secretions influence infiltration of different immune cells, either positively for clearing senescent cells or negatively for promoting tumor growth, reflecting the dual role of senescence in cancer. However, a role for ILK in senescence and immunity in CRC remains to be determined. In this review, we discuss the possible role for ILK in senescence and immunity, paying particular attention to the relevance of ILK in CRC. We also examine how activating Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and their agonists in CRC could trigger immune responses against cancer, as a combination therapy with ILK inhibition.

lncRNA ILF3-AS1 promotes proliferation and metastasis of colorectal cancer cells by recruiting histone methylase EZH2

The role of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) has been displayed in colorectal cancer (CRC). Here, we aimed to discuss the role of lncRNA interleukin enhancer-binding factor 3-antisense RNA 1 (ILF3-AS1)/enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2)/cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 2 (CDKN2A)/histone 3 (H3) lysine 27 trimethylation (H3K27me3) in cell proliferation and metastasis of CRC. ILF3-AS1, EZH2, and CDKN2A levels in CRC tissues and cells were detected. The relationship between ILF3-AS1/EZH2 expression and the clinicopathological features of CRC was analyzed. High/low expression of ILF3-AS1/EZH2 plasmids were composed to explore the function of ILF3-AS1/EZH2 in invasion, migration, proliferation, colony formation, and apoptosis of CRC cells. The growth status of nude mice was observed to verify the in vitro results from in vivo experiment. ILF3-AS1 and EZH2 increased, whereas CDKN2A reduced in CRC tissues and cells. ILF3-AS1 and EZH2 expression was linked to Dukes stage, distant metastasis, vascular invasion, and lymph node metastasis of CRC patients. Depleted ILF3-AS1 or reduced EZH2 suppressed proliferation, migration, colony-formation, and invasion ability, as well as facilitated apoptosis of CRC cells and attenuated the tumor growth in CRC mice. ILF3-AS1 accelerates the proliferation and metastasis of CRC cells by recruiting histone methylase EZH2 to induce trimethylation of H3K27 and downregulate CDKN2A.

Down-Regulation of ID2-AS1 Alleviates the Neuronal Injury Induced by 1-Methy1-4-Phenylpyridinium in Human Neuroblastoma Cell Line SH-SY5Y Cells Through Regulating miR-199a-5p/IFNAR1/JAK2/STAT1 Axis

We aimed to illustrate the roles and molecular mechanisms of ID2-AS1 in parkinson's disease (PD). Methods: qRT-PCR detected the expression of ID2-AS1. CCK-8, LDH release assays the effect of ID2-AS1 knockdown on PD cells. Flow cytometry and Western Blot were used to detect the effect of ID2-AS1 inhibition on PD cell apoptosis. ELISA analysis showed that ID2-AS1 inhibition can reduce the inflammation of PD cells. ROS activity assay showed that inhibiting ID2-AS1 attenuated the oxidative stress induced by 1-methy1-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+). RNA binding protein immunoprecipitation assay showed that ID2-AS1 is mainly located in the cytoplasm. The luciferase reporter assay is used to verify the interaction. In our study, ID2-AS1 was concentration-dependently and time-dependently up-regulated in MPP+ -treated human neuroblastoma cell line SH-SY5Y. ID2-AS1 knockdown enhanced cell proliferation and decreased cell death in PD cells. Knockdown of ID2-AS1 attenuates MPP+ -induced cytotoxicity in SH-SY5Y cells. ID2-AS1 is a sponge of miR-199a-5p. IFNAR1 is a target of miR-199a-5p. Inhibition of miR-199a-5p and overexpression of IFNAR1 alleviate the inhibitory effect of ID2-AS1 knockdown on MPP+ triggered neuronal injury. Inhibition of miR-199a-5p and overexpression of IFNAR1 alleviate the inhibitory effect of ID2-AS1 knockdown on MPP+ -triggered JAK2/STAT1 activation. Overall, down-regulation of ID2-AS1 alleviated the neuronal injury in PD through regulating miR-199a-5p/IFNAR1/JAK2/STAT1 axis.

Silencing long non-coding RNAs nicotinamide nucleotide transhydrogenase antisense RNA 1 inhibited papillary thyroid cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion and promoted apoptosis via targeting miR-199a-5p

The increasing incidence of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) has attracted many researchers to investigate the mechanism underlying PTC progression. This study explored the growth and apoptosis of PTC cells based on an lncRNA regulatory mechanism. The expression of nicotinamide nucleotide transhydrogenase antisense RNA 1 (NNT-AS1) in PTC cell lines and PTC tissues was analyzed by qRT-PCR. The mutual binding site between NNT-AS1 and miR-199a-5p was predicted by starBase and confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter assay. The correlation between NNT-AS1 and miR-199a-5p was shown by Pearson correlation test. The viability, clone formation, migration, invasion and apoptosis of TPC-1 and IHH-4 cells were examined by CCK-8, colony formation, wound-healing, transwell, and flow cytometry assays, respectively. The expressions of Bax, cleaved Caspase-3, Bcl-2, E-Cadherin, N-Cadherin and SNAIL in TPC-1 and IHH-4 cells were determined by Western blot or qRT-PCR. NNT-AS1 expression was upregulated in PTC cells and tissues. In TPC-1 cells, silencing NNT-AS1 inhibited viability, clone formation, migration, and invasion as well as the expressions of N-Cadherin, SNAIL and Bcl-2, but promoted the expressions of E-Cadherin, Bax, and cleaved caspase-3. The effects of NNT-AS1 overexpression on IHH-4 cells were opposite to those of silencing NNT-AS1. In PTC tissues, miR-199a-5p was low-expressed and targeted by NNT-AS1, and it was negatively correlated with NNT-AS1. MiR-199a-5p inhibitor promoted TPC-1 cell progression, but miR-199a-5p mimic inhibited IHH-4 cell progression. NNT-AS1 and miR-199a-5p exerted opposite effects on PTC cells. Silencing NNT-AS1 inhibited PTC cell proliferation, migration and invasion, but promoted apoptosis via upregulation of miR-199a-5p.

MicroRNA miR-146a-5p inhibits the inflammatory response and injury of airway epithelial cells via targeting TNF receptor-associated factor 6

Bronchial asthma is a common respiratory disease, which is characterized by airway inflammation, remodeling and hyperresponsiveness. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), as reported, are implicated in the pathogenesis of many diseases, but how miRNAs-146a-5p (miR-146a-5p) works in asthma remains inconclusive. In this work, we proved that miR-146a-5p expression was inhibited in asthma patients’ plasma and platelet activating factor (PAF)-induced human small airway epithelial cells (HSAECs). MiR-146a-5p up-regulation ameliorated the inflammatory reaction and cell barrier damage of HSAECs induced by PAF, and inhibited the apoptosis; besides, miR-146a-5p down-regulation functioned oppositely. In addition, miR-146a-5p could target TNF receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) and negatively regulate its expression. TRAF6 overexpression could counterract the impact of miR-146a-5p up-regulation on PAF-induced inflammation, cell barrier damage and apoptosis of HSAECs. Collectively, miR-146a-5p may protect airway epithelial cells and inhibit the pathogenesis of asthma via targeting TRAF6.

Biological Implications and Clinical Potential of Metastasis-Related miRNA in Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC), ranking as the third commonest cancer, leads to extremely high rates of mortality. Metastasis is the major cause of poor outcome in CRC. When metastasis occurs, 5-year survival rates of patients decrease sharply, and strategies to enhance a patient's lifetime seem limited. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are evolutionarily conserved small non-coding RNAs that are significantly involved in manipulation of CRC malignant phenotypes, including proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. To date, accumulating studies have revealed the mechanisms and functions of certain miRNAs in CRC metastasis. However, there is no systematic discussion about the biological implications and clinical potential (diagnostic role, prognostic role, and targeted therapy potential) of metastasis-related miRNAs in CRC. This review mainly summarizes the recent advances of miRNA-mediated metastasis in CRC. We also discuss the clinical values of metastasis-related miRNAs as potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets in CRC. Moreover, we envisage the future orientation and challenges in translating these findings into clinical applications.

MicroRNA‑199a‑3p inhibits ovarian cancer cell viability by targeting the oncogene YAP1

MicroRNA-199a-3p (miR-199a-3p) is aberrantly expressed in various types of cancer where it exhibits a tumor suppressive role. However, the biological role of miR-199a-3p in ovarian cancer (OC) remains unclear. The present study aimed to investigate whether miR-199a-3p was a tumor suppressor in OC and to identify the possible mechanisms. It was found that miR-199a-3p expression was significantly downregulated in the tumor tissues and blood samples of patients with OC, as well as in three OC cell lines. In addition, its low expression was closely associated with International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics disease stage, histological grade and lymph node metastasis. It was demonstrated that overexpression of miR-199a-3p inhibited the viability and promoted apoptosis of OV90 and SKOV-3 cells. In addition, Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1), a well-known oncogene, was identified as a direct target of miR-199a-3p in OC cells. Additionally, it was observed that YAP1 was significantly increased and inversely correlated with miR-199a-3p expression in OC tissues. Notably, YAP1 overexpression abrogated the tumor suppressive effects of miR-199a-3p in vitro. Collectively, the present results indicated that miR-199a-3p suppressed viability in OC cells, at least partly via inhibiting the YAP1 oncogene, suggesting that miR-199a-3p may act as a biomarker and therapeutic target for patients with OC.

Regulation of Hedgehog Signaling by miRNAs and Nanoformulations: A Possible Therapeutic Solution for Colorectal Cancer

Hedgehog (Hh) signaling aberrations trigger differentiation and proliferation in colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the current approaches which inhibit this vital cellular pathway provoke some side effects. Therefore, it is necessary to look for new therapeutic options. MicroRNAs are small molecules that modulate expression of the target genes and can be utilized as a potential therapeutic option for CRC. On the other hand, nanoformulations have been implemented in the treatment of plethora of diseases. Owing to their excessive bioavailability, limited cytotoxicity and high specificity, nanoparticles may be considered as an alternative drug delivery platform for the Hh signaling mediated CRC. This article reviews the Hh signaling and its involvement in CRC with focus on miRNAs, nanoformulations as potential diagnostic/prognostic and therapeutics for CRC.

Regulators at Every Step-How microRNAs Drive Tumor Cell Invasiveness and Metastasis

Tumor cell invasiveness and metastasis are the main causes of mortality in cancer. Tumor progression is composed of many steps, including primary tumor growth, local invasion, intravasation, survival in the circulation, pre-metastatic niche formation, and metastasis. All these steps are strictly controlled by microRNAs (miRNAs), small non-coding RNA that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. miRNAs can act as oncomiRs that promote tumor cell invasion and metastasis or as tumor suppressor miRNAs that inhibit tumor progression. These miRNAs regulate the actin cytoskeleton, the expression of extracellular matrix (ECM) receptors including integrins and ECM-remodeling enzymes comprising matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and regulate epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), hence modulating cell migration and invasiveness. Moreover, miRNAs regulate angiogenesis, the formation of a pre-metastatic niche, and metastasis. Thus, miRNAs are biomarkers of metastases as well as promising targets of therapy. In this review, we comprehensively describe the role of various miRNAs in tumor cell migration, invasion, and metastasis.

Regulators at Every Step—How microRNAs Drive Tumor Cell Invasiveness and Metastasis

Tumor cell invasiveness and metastasis are the main causes of mortality in cancer. Tumor progression is composed of many steps, including primary tumor growth, local invasion, intravasation, survival in the circulation, pre-metastatic niche formation, and metastasis. All these steps are strictly controlled by microRNAs (miRNAs), small non-coding RNA that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. miRNAs can act as oncomiRs that promote tumor cell invasion and metastasis or as tumor suppressor miRNAs that inhibit tumor progression. These miRNAs regulate the actin cytoskeleton, the expression of extracellular matrix (ECM) receptors including integrins and ECM-remodeling enzymes comprising matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and regulate epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), hence modulating cell migration and invasiveness. Moreover, miRNAs regulate angiogenesis, the formation of a pre-metastatic niche, and metastasis. Thus, miRNAs are biomarkers of metastases as well as promising targets of therapy. In this review, we comprehensively describe the role of various miRNAs in tumor cell migration, invasion, and metastasis.

MicroRNA-199a-5p suppresses the cell growth of colorectal cancer by targeting oncogene Caprin1

MicroRNAs-199a-5p (miR-199a-5p) plays critical regulatory roles in various types of human cancers. However, the biological function and regulatory mechanisms of miR-199a-5p in colorectal cancer (CRC) remain unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of miR-199a-5p in CRC and possible mechanisms of its action. The expression of miR-199a-5p in CRC tumor tissues was validated using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). The effects of miR-199a-5p on cell proliferation and apoptosis were evaluated in vitro. Then, the association of miR-199a-5p and its downstream target was investigated in both cell line and clinical specimens. Furthermore, gain- and loss-of-function studies of cytoplasmic activation/proliferation-associated protein-1 (Caprin1) were performed to assess whether the suppressive effect of on CRC cells were via targeting Caprin1. Using a microarray platform, we focused on miR-199a-5p for further research, which was one of the most markedly downregulated miRNAs in CRC tumor tissues. Functionally, the overexpression of miR-199a-5p inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis in both HTC116 and SW480 cells. Furthermore, cytoplasmic activation/proliferation-associated protein-1 (Caprin1), a well-known oncogene, was directly targeted by miR-199a-5p. It was also observed that Caprin1 was upregulated, and inversely correlated with miR-199a-5p levels in CRC tissues. Further investigations revealed that knockdown of Caprin1 by siRNA has similar role with miR-199a-5p overexpression in CRC cells, suggesting the oncogenic role of Caprin1 in CRC. In the contrast, we found that overexpression of Caprin1 reversed the suppressive effects of miR-199a-5p on CRC cells. Collectively, our study suggests that miR-199a-5p/Caprin1 axis may serve as potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of CRC.

MicroRNA‑199a‑5p suppresses cell proliferation, migration and invasion by targeting ITGA3 in colorectal cancer

As a member of the integrin family, integrin α3β1 (ITGA3) has been linked to intercellular communication and serves an important role in the signaling among cells and the extracellular matrix. MicroRNA (miR)-199a-5p has been demonstrated to be related to the pathogenesis and progression of multiple malignant diseases. However, the biological functions of miR-199a-5p and ITGA3 in colorectal cancer (CRC) have rarely been reported. The aim of the present study was to explore the roles of miR-199a-5p and ITGA3 in CRC. Immunohistochemistry staining and western blotting were applied to detect the protein expression of ITGA3 in CRC tissues and cells. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR was performed to investigate the expression of miR-199a-5p and ITGA3 mRNA. HCT-116 cells were transfected with miR-199a-5p mimics, mimics control, short hairpin RNA targeting ITGA3, or pcDNA-ITGA3 for the functional experiments. Dual luciferase reporter assay was applied to confirm whether miR-199a-5p targeted the 3′ untranslated region (3′UTR) of ITGA3. The MTT, Transwell and wound healing assays were used to evaluate the proliferation, invasion and migration of CRC cells. Immunofluorescence assay was used to monitor the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) biomarker expression. The results demonstrated downregulation of miR-199a-5p and upregulation of ITGA3 in CRC tissues and cell lines. miR-199a-5p mimics and knockdown of ITGA3 suppressed the proliferation, invasion and migration of CRC cells. Bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assay indicated that miR-199a-5p targeted the 3′UTR of the ITGA3 transcript, and overexpression of ITGA3 reversed the tumor-suppressive effects of miR-199a-5p elevation. In addition, the immunofluorescence assay suggested that miR-199a-5p mimics suppressed the EMT of CRC cells, whereas the overexpression of ITGA3 restored this effect. In conclusion, miR-199a-5p may act as a tumor suppressor by targeting and negatively regulating ITGA3 in CRC.

Milk Exosomes Prevent Intestinal Inflammation in a Genetic Mouse Model of Ulcerative Colitis: A Pilot Experiment

Background

Milk is rich in nutrients and anabolic mediators rendering it essential for postnatal growth and metabolic programming. However, in adults, excessive consumption of milk is controversial as civilization disorders such as diabetes or prostate cancer may be promoted. A cytoprotective effect of milk could be utilized in inflammatory conditions, that is, chronic colitis.

Objective

To evaluate the effect of bovine milk exosomes on intestinal inflammation in a genetic mouse model of ulcerative colitis.

Methods

Intestinal-specific kindlin 2 knockout (KO) mice were exposed for 4 days to tamoxifen for induction of an ulcerative colitis phenotype. At the same time 4 other kindlin 2 KO mice were exposed to 33 μg/g cow milk derived exosomes in PBS by oral gavage. Both groups were compared to untreated wild-type controls.

Results

Milk exosomes prevented the appearance of a severe ulcerative phenotype. The macroscopic colitis score dropped from a mean of 3.33 in untreated mice to 0.75 index points (p < 0.01) in exosome-treated mice, which included significant improvement of the subscores of stool improvement and colon weight and length. Treated mice featured a noninflamed appearance of the intestinal mucosa.

Key Message

Milk exosomes have cytoprotective/anti-inflammatory activity in a genetic mouse model of ulcerative colitis. The mechanisms behind this need to be elucidated. This pilot study needs verification before a therapeutic strategy is developed.

MiR-199a-5p Targets ZEB1 to Inhibit the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition of Ovarian Ectopic Endometrial Stromal Cells Via PI3K/Akt/mTOR Signal Pathway In Vitro and In Vivo

Endometriosis (Ems) is a common gynecological disease with the characteristics of infertility, pelvic pain, and sexual intercourse difficulty. Our present study aimed to investigate the effect of miR-199a-5p on cell mobility and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in Ems. Ectopic endometrial stromal cells (EcSCs) and control endometrial stromal cells (CSCs) were isolated in our in vitro experiments. The level of miR-199a-5p in EcSCs was found much lower than that in CSCs. Besides, miR-199a-5p mimic suppressed the invasion and migration ability of EcSCs. At the same time, EMT was also found to be suppressed by miR-199a-5p mimic in EcSCs. Our further bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assay revealed that ZEB1, a marker of EMT, was a direct target of miR-199a-5p. In addition, the combination of pcDNA3.1-ZEB1 weakened the inhibiting effect of miR-199a-5p mimic on the mobility and EMT of EcSCs. What is more, the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signal pathway was demonstrated to be inactivated by miR-199a-5p mimic. And then, the inducer of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signal pathway, IGF-1, abolished the effect of miR-199a-5p mimic on Ems progression. At last, an Ems rat model was established, and we found that miR-199a-5p agomir effectively suppressed the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and EMT in vivo. The PI3K/Akt/mTOR signal pathway was also inactivated by miR-199a-5p agomir in our Ems rat model. Taken together, we concluded that miR-199a-5p targeted ZEB1 to inhibit the EMT of ovarian ectopic endometrial stromal cells via PI3K/Akt/mTOR signal pathway in vitro and in vivo, advancing our understanding of miR-199a-5p as regulators of Ems progression and making contribution to the treatment of Ems.

LncRNA DLX6-AS1 increases the expression of HIF-1α and promotes the malignant phenotypes of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells via targeting MiR-199a-5p

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the expression of long-chain noncoding growth stasis specific protein 6 antisense RNA1 (lncRNA DLX6-AS1) in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) tissues and cells, and its regulatory effect on malignant phenotypes of NPC cells.

METHODS

The expressions of DLX6-AS1, miR-199a-5p, and HIF-1α mRNA in NPC issues and cells were detected by qRT-PCR. The proliferation, metastasis, and invasion of cells were monitored via MTT and transwell assay. The interactions between DLX6-AS1 and miR-199a-5p, miR-199a-5p and HIF-1α were verified by luciferase activity assay. Western blot was performed to determine the regulatory effect of DLX6-AS1 and miR-199a-5p on HIF-1α protein.

RESULTS

The expression of lncRNA DLX6-AS1 was up-regulated in NPC tissues and cells. The proliferation, migration, and invasion of NPC were enhanced by overexpressed DLX6-AS1 but inhibited by DLX6-AS1 knockdown. In addition, DLX6-AS1 can be used as a kind of ceRNA to regulate miR-199a-5p and, thereby modulating the expression of HIF-1α.

CONCLUSION

We found that DLX6-AS1 was a cancer-promoting lncRNA to facilitate the progression of NPC, and its underlying mechanism was suppressing miR-199a-5p expression. This study can provide novel clues for the treatment of NPC.

Long noncoding RNA ABHD11-AS1 functions as a competing endogenous RNA to regulate papillary thyroid cancer progression by miR-199a-5p/SLC1A5 axis

With the increasing incidence of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC), more attention has been paid to exploring the mechanism of PTC initiation and progression. In addition, ectopic expression of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) is reported to play a pivotal role in multiple human cancers. Based on these findings, we examined lncRNA ABHD11 antisense RNA 1 (ABHD11-AS1) expression and its clinical significance, biological function and mechanism in PTC. First, we analyzed thyroid ABHD11-AS1 expression in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. Then, qRT-PCR was applied to detect the expression in paired PTC tissues and adjacent normal tissues, as well as in PTC cell lines (TPC-1 and K-1) and a normal thyroid follicular epithelium cell line (Nthy-ori3-1). In addition, we validated the relationship between ABHD11-AS1 expression and clinicopathological features by the Pearson X² test. The oncogenic role of ABHD11-AS1 and its regulation of miR-199a-5p in PTC were examined by biological assays. Finally, bioinformatics analysis and mechanism assays were used to elucidate the underlying mechanism. We found that ABHD11-AS1 was remarkably overexpressed in PTC, and high expression was related to tumor size, lymph node metastasis, extrathyroidal extension and advanced TNM stage. Moreover, ABHD11-AS1 enhanced the abilities of cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, inhibited apoptosis in vitro, promoted tumorigenesis in vivo via sponging miR-199a-5p and then induced SLC1A5 activation. In addition, rescue assays were performed to confirm the ABHD11-AS1/miR-199a-5p/SLC1A5 axis. Taken together, the data show that ABHD11-AS1 acts as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to exert malignant properties in PTC through the miR-199a-5p/SLC1A5 axis. Therefore, our study may shed light on PTC diagnosis and therapies.

Retracted Article: Gemcitabine aggravates miR-199a-5p-mediated breast cancer cell apoptosis by promoting VEGFA downregulation via inactivating the AKT signaling pathway

Breast cancer is the most frequent malignancy diagnosed in women, and Gemcitabine-based therapy is frequently used to treat late-stage breast cancer. miR-199a-5p plays a tumor-suppressive role in breast cancer. This work aimed to explore the mechanism of miR-199a-5p plus Gemcitabine in breast cancer cells. Expression of miR-199a-5p was measured by RT-qPCR, while expression of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) was measured by Western blot and RT-qPCR. Overexpression of miR-199a-5p and/or silencing of VEGFA was obtained using transfection in breast cancer cells (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231). Functional experiments were performed to explore cell viability, apoptosis rate, and expressions of apoptosis-related genes: cell viability was assessed by MTT staining, apoptosis rate was recorded by flow cytometry, and Western blot was used to evaluate the expressions of Bcl-2, Bax and cleaved caspase 3. The signaling pathway was studied with respect to AKT activity via determination of p-AKT expression levels. Our study found that miR-199a-5p was downregulated and VEGFA was upregulated in breast cancer tissues and cells. Overexpression of miR-199a-5p and/or silencing of VEGFA contributed to cell apoptosis and inhibited cell viability, which was promoted by Gemcitabine. VEGFA was a downstream target of miR-199a-5p, and was negatively regulated by Gemcitabine. Moreover, Gemcitabine aggravated the miR-199a-5p-induced suppression of the VEGFA level and AKT activity in breast cancer cells. Our data show that Gemcitabine aggravates miR-199a-5p-mediated VEGFA downregulation and apoptosis via inactivating the AKT signaling pathway in breast cancer cells, indicating a novel promising combined therapy of miR-199a-5p overexpression and Gemcitabine.

Upregulated expression of ROCK1 promotes cell proliferation by functioning as a target of miR-335-5p in non-small cell lung cancer

Lung cancer is regarded as one of the dominant causes in cancer patients among men and women all over the world. Rho-associated coiled-coil forming protein kinase l (ROCK1) is characterized as pivotal downstream effectors of the small GTPase RhoA and reported to participate in tumor metastasis. miR-335-5p acts as tumor suppressor microRNA and is identified to be downregulated in tumor tissues. miR-335-5p/ROCK1 axis has been demonstrated to promote cell proliferation and metastasis in gastric cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma and so on. However, the role it plays in promoting cell proliferation in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is poorly understood. Here, we demonstrated that the upregulated expression of ROCK1 was highly correlated with downregulated expression of miR-335-5p in NSCLC tissues and cell lines. Mechanistically, Knockdown of ROCK1 inhibited cell proliferation in vitro, accompanied by cell cycle change confirmed by flow analysis. Furthermore, miR-335-5p can downregulate the ROCK1 expression by directly binding to the 3'-untranslated region in posttranscriptional level. In vivo animal model showed similar results. Our findings highlighted the crucial role that miR-335-5p acted as a tumor suppressor to modulate cell proliferation and cell cycle progression via downregulating ROCK1 expression. And this miR-335-5p/ROCK1 axis contributed to NSCLC pathogenesis and might be promising targets for NSCLC therapy.

MicroRNA Dysregulation in Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) is the second most frequent cancer in humans and it can be locally invasive and metastatic to distant sites. MicroRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) are endogenous, small, non-coding RNAs of 19–25 nucleotides in length, that are involved in regulating gene expression at a post-transcriptional level. MicroRNAs have been implicated in diverse biological functions and diseases. In cancer, miRNAs can proceed either as oncogenic miRNAs (onco-miRs) or as tumor suppressor miRNAs (oncosuppressor-miRs), depending on the pathway in which they are involved. Dysregulation of miRNA expression has been shown in most of the tumors evaluated. MiRNA dysregulation is known to be involved in the development of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC). In this review, we focus on the recent evidence about the role of miRNAs in the development of CSCC and in the prognosis of this form of skin cancer.

microRNA-199a-5p suppresses glioma progression by inhibiting MAGT1

microRNAs (miRNAs) can function as a tumor suppressor or oncogenic genes in human cancers. Alternation expression of miR-199a-5p has been revealed in several human cancers. However, its expression pattern and biological roles in glioma remain unclear. Expression levels of miR-199a-5p in glioma were evaluated at first. The effects of miR-199a-5p expression on cell proliferation, migration, and invasion were investigated using the MTT assay, wound-healing assay, and transwell invasion assay. The expression of miR-199a-5p was found to be reduced in glioma cell lines. Overexpression of miR-199a-5p inhibits glioma cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro. Furthermore, the target of miR-199a-5p was predicted by TargetScan and validated by luciferase activity reporter assay. We found magnesium transporter 1 (MAGT1) was a direct target of miR-199a-5p. Overexpression of MAGT1 reversed the effects of miR-199a-5p on glioma cell behaviors. Taken together, our study revealed that miR-199a-5p and MAGT1 have the potential to be used as a biomarker for glioma.

miR-199a-5p promotes proliferation and metastasis and epithelial-mesenchymal transition through targeting PIAS3 in cervical carcinoma

Cervical carcinoma is the second most frequent gynecological malignancies in females worldwide. The objective of this study was to investigate the role of miR-199a-5p and protein inhibitor of activated signal transducer and activators of transcription 3 (PIAS3) in cervical carcinoma. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was utilized to detect miR-199a-5p and PIAS3 expression in cervical carcinoma tissues and cells. 3-(4,5-Dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide Kit, transwell assay were used to explore the biological functions of miR-199a-5p in cervical carcinoma. Western blot analysis was applied to determine the expression level of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-associated proteins and PIAS3 expression. The relationship between miR-199a-5p and PIAS3 was verified by luciferase activity reporter assay. We found that miR-199a-5p was upregulated in cervical carcinoma tissues and cell lines, and overexpression of miR-199a-5p promoted cell proliferation and metastasis in cervical carcinoma. In addition, Western blot analysis indicated that the enforced upregulation of miR-199a-5p enhanced mesenchymal markers vimentin and N-cadherin expressions, whereas reduced epithelial marker E-cadherin expressions. miR-199a-5p directly targeted PIAS3 and negatively regulated PIAS3 level in cervical carcinoma cells. And upregulation of PIAS3 reversed the effects of miR-199a-5p in cervical carcinoma. Collectively, our data provide evidence for miR-199a-5p function in cervical carcinoma growth, EMT, and metastasis; it may be act as a therapeutic strategy target for patients with cervical carcinoma.

Exosomes of pasteurized milk: potential pathogens of Western diseases

Milk consumption is a hallmark of western diet. According to common believes, milk consumption has beneficial effects for human health. Pasteurization of cow's milk protects thermolabile vitamins and other organic compounds including bioactive and bioavailable exosomes and extracellular vesicles in the range of 40-120 nm, which are pivotal mediators of cell communication via systemic transfer of specific micro-ribonucleic acids, mRNAs and regulatory proteins such as transforming growth factor-β. There is compelling evidence that human and bovine milk exosomes play a crucial role for adequate metabolic and immunological programming of the newborn infant at the beginning of extrauterine life. Milk exosomes assist in executing an anabolic, growth-promoting and immunological program confined to the postnatal period in all mammals. However, epidemiological and translational evidence presented in this review indicates that continuous exposure of humans to exosomes of pasteurized milk may confer a substantial risk for the development of chronic diseases of civilization including obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, common cancers (prostate, breast, liver, B-cells) as well as Parkinson's disease. Exosomes of pasteurized milk may represent new pathogens that should not reach the human food chain.

Modulation in the microRNA repertoire is responsible for the stage-specific effects of Akt suppression on murine neuroendocrine prostate cancer

Recent studies indicate a stage-specific, differential role for the oncogene Akt on various cancers. In prostate cancer (PCa), suppression of Akt activity in the advanced stages promoted transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) pathway-mediated epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and metastasis to the lungs. In the current study, we performed Affymetrix analysis to compare the expression profile of microRNAs in the mouse prostate tissues collected at the prostatic inter-epithelial neoplasia (PIN) stage from Transgenic adenocarcinoma of the mouse (TRAMP)/Akt1^+/+ versus TRAMP/Akt1^–/– mice, and at the advanced stage from TRAMP/Akt1^+/+ mice treated with triciribine (Akt inhibitor) versus DMSO-treated control. Our analysis demonstrates that in the early stage, Akt1 in the TRAMP prostate tumors express a set of miRNAs responsible for regulating cancer cell survival, proliferation, and tumor growth, whereas, in the advanced stages, a different set of miRNAs that promote EMT and cancer metastasis is expressed. Our study has identified novel Akt-regulated signature microRNAs in the early and advanced PCa and demonstrates their differential effects on PCa growth and metastasis.