microRNA-145 promotes differentiation in human urothelial carcinoma through down-regulation of syndecan-1

Relapse and Survival in Bladder Cancer Patients Undergoing microRNA-129 and microRNA-145 Assays

OBJECTIVE

The lack of indicators to measure tumor's invasive biological behavior is an important issue. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of miRNAs 129 and 145 on tumor progression as well as patient survival.

METHOD

Seventy five breast cancer (BC) patients and 75 controls were included in this research. Two miRNA expressions were estimated using real-time PCR. Biomarkers for BC detection was tested using ROC curves and AUC.

RESULT

miR-129 and miR-145 expressions were significant. miR-129 and miR-145 classifiers (AUC = 0.943 and 0.748, respectively) help diagnose BC. Unlike miR-145, miR-129 did not affect the Kaplan-Meier survival curve analysis for progression-free survival at the end of the trial. The development of transitional cell carcinoma disease was found to have a strong correlation with miR-145 in both univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses. Additionally, infiltrating + invasive urothelial carcinoma was also found to be correlated with miR-145. Conversely, elevated miR-129 expression in BC patients did not lead to an increase in cancer-specific recurrence or mortality, as observed in both univariate and multivariate Cox regression studies.

CONCLUSION

The miRNA signature can help detect survival-associated miRNAs and develop BC miRNA therapeutics.

Circular STAG2 RNA Modulates Bladder Cancer Progression via miR-145-5p/TAGLN2 and Is Considered as a Biomarker for Recurrence

The current study aimed to elucidate the regulatory mechanisms of the circRNA hsa_circ_0139697 (circSTAG2(16-25)) in BCa and to consider the opportunity of using circSTAG2(16-25) isolated from BCa patient urine as a marker for disease development prediction. The selection of this circRNA was determined by the special role of its parental gene STAG2 in BCa biology. The circRNA hsa_circ_0139697 was chosen from 25 STAG2 circRNAs due to its differential expression in the urine of BCa patients and healthy volunteers. Higher levels of circSTAG2(16-25) were detected in urine samples obtained from patients with recurrent tumors. A higher expression of circSTAG2(16-25) was also detected in more tumorigenic BCa cell lines. The overexpression of circSTAG2(16-25) in BCa cells induced the elevation of proliferation, motility, and invasion. To study the mechanisms of circSTAG2(16-25) activity, we confirmed that circSTAG2(16-25) can bind miR-145-5p in vitro as was predicted by bioinformatic search. miR-145-5p was shown to suppress some genes that promoted BCa progression. One of these genes, TAGLN2, encodes the protein Transgelin 2, which plays a role in BCa cell motility and invasion. Therefore, the possible mechanism of action of circSTAG2(16-25) could be sponging the tumor suppressor miR-145-5p, which results in activation of TAGLN2. In addition, circSTAG2(16-25) might be considered as a potential biomarker for recurrence prediction.

Overexpression of MicroRNA-138 Affects the Proliferation and Invasion of Urothelial Carcinoma Cells by Suppressing SOX9 Expression

SRY-box transcription factor 9 (SOX9) is important for sexual differentiation, chondrogenic differentiation, and cell proliferation in cancer. It acts as a target molecule of microRNA (miR)-138 in various tumors and is associated with tumor development and growth. In this study, we analyzed the functions of miR-138 and SOX9 in urothelial carcinoma. SOX9 was highly expressed in invasive urothelial carcinoma tissues. miR-138 precursor transfection of T24 and UMUC2 cells significantly decreased SOX9 expression, indicating that SOX9 is a miR-138 target in urothelial carcinoma. Moreover, miR-138 precursor or SOX9 small interfering RNA (siRNA) transfection decreased the proliferation of urothelial carcinoma cell lines. To further confirm that miR-138-SOX9 signaling is involved in cell proliferation and invasion, urothelial carcinoma cells were transfected with the miR-138 precursor or SOX9 siRNA. This transfection reduced the proliferation and invasion of cells via the promotion of autophagy and apoptosis and G0/G1 cell cycle arrest. These results suggest that miR-138-SOX9 signaling modulates the growth and invasive potential of urothelial carcinoma cells.

Impact of SOX2 function and regulation on therapy resistance in bladder cancer

Bladder cancer (BC) is a malignant disease with high rates of recurrence and mortality. It is mainly classified as non-muscle-invasive BC and muscle-invasive BC (MIBC). Often, MIBC is chemoresistant, which, according to cancer stem cells (CSCs) theory, is linked to the presence of bladder cancer stem cells (BCSCs). Sex-determining region Y- (SRY) Box transcription factor 2 (SOX2), which is a molecular marker of BCSCs, is aberrantly over-expressed in chemoresistant BC cell lines. It is one of the standalone prognostic factors for BC, and it has an inherently significant function in the emergence and progression of the disease. This review first summarizes the role of SRY-related high-mobility group protein Box (SOX) family genes in BC, focusing on the SOX2 and its significance in BC. Second, it discusses the mechanisms relevant to the regulation of SOX2. Finally, it summarizes the signaling pathways related to SOX2 in BC, suggests current issues to be addressed, and proposes potential directions for future research to provide new insights for the treatment of BC.

Diagnostic Strategies for Urologic Cancer Using Expression Analysis of Various Oncogenic Surveillance Molecules—From Non-Coding Small RNAs to Cancer-Specific Proteins

Urinary-tract-related tumors are prone to simultaneous or heterogeneous multiple tumor development within the primary organ. Urologic tumors have a very high risk of recurrence in the long and short term. This may be related to the disruption of homeostasis on the genetic level, such as the induction of genetic mutations due to exposure to various carcinogenic factors and the disruption of cancer suppressor gene functions. It is essential to detect the cancer progression signals caused by genetic abnormalities and find treatment therapies. In this review, we discuss the usefulness of tumor-expressing clinical biomarkers for predicting cancer progression. Furthermore, we discuss various factors associated with disturbed intracellular signals and those targeted by microRNAs, which are representative of non-coding small RNAs.

Overexpression of microRNA-345 Affects the Invasive Capacity of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Cell Lines by Suppressing MUC1 and TJP2 Expression

The majority of pancreatic carcinomas are pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDAC), and the presence of non-invasive pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia or intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm, as an associated lesion, is considered important. These microscopic hyperplastic or grossly papillomatous lesions exhibit varying degrees of morphological atypia and may develop into invasive carcinomas. In this study, we investigated whether mucin-1 (MUC1) is involved in the progression of pancreatic carcinoma and examined the mechanisms by which microRNAs regulate MUC1 expression in vitro. In PDAC cell lines, suppression of MUC1 expression reduced cell proliferation and invasion; PDAC cell lines transfected with an miR-345 precursor suppressed the expression of MUC1, and reduced cell proliferation and invasion. Tight junction protein 2 (TJP2), a putative target of miR-345, is regulated by MUC1. The suppression of TJP2 expression reduced cell proliferation by inducing apoptosis. These results suggest that MUC1 and TJP2, the putative target molecules of miR-345, are critical in maintaining the invasive potential of pancreatic carcinoma cells, and regulating their expression may prevent the progression of non-invasive pancreatic intraductal lesions to invasive carcinomas. This study provides new insights for the development of novel molecular targeted therapies for pancreatic carcinomas.

Screening Differential CircRNAs Expression Profiles Reveals the Regulatory Role of the has_circTPT1_003-has-miR-218-5p-CCNE2/SMC4 Signaling Axis in Bladder Carcinoma Progression

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of noncoding RNAs closely related to the development and progression of various human cancers. However, it is unclear whether circRNAs play an important role in the development of bladder cancer. We utilized human circRNA array V2 microarrays to screen circRNA expression profiles in bladder cancer tissues. Bioinformatic tools including circBank, dbDEMC 2.0, miRCancer, TarBase v7.0, miRtarbase, TCGA-BLCA, Cytoscape-MCODE, String, ENCORI, and Venny 2.1 were then employed to construct the circRNA-miRNA-mRNA regulatory networks. In total, 105 upregulated circRNAs and 167 downregulated circRNAs (fold change >2 and p < 0.001) were filtered out. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis of filtered dysregulated circRNAs disclosed that the circRNAs regulatory network was closely related with mRNA processing and cell cycle, etc. Further excavation analysis showed that seven differentially overexpressed circRNAs including hsa_circ_0000133, hsa_circ_0023610, hsa_circ_0005615, hsa_circ_0030162, hsa_circ_0077007, hsa_circ_0001140, and hsa_circ_0107031 were associated with bladder cancer invasiveness, and the cell cycle signal axis. has_circTPT1_003-has-miR-218-5p-CCNE2/SMC4 was finally clarified as a possible mechanism for bladder cancer progression. Based on results derived from multiple approaches, we identified that has_circTPT1_003-has-miR-218-5p-CCNE2/SMC4 signal axis may be involved in the invasion process of bladder cancer.

Exosome-Transmitted miR-128 Targets CCL18 to Inhibit the Proliferation and Metastasis of Urothelial Carcinoma

Objective: To investigate the regulatory function of exosome-transmitted miR-128 and chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 18 (CCL18) on urothelial carcinomas (UCs).

Methods: Tumor tissues, paracancerous tissues, and serum were collected from 20 patients with UCs (diagnosed at Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University). CCL18 was detected by immunohistochemistry and ELISA. PCR was used to measure the expression levels of CCL18 and mir-183, miR-128, mir-33a in UCs. We acquired exosomes from mesenchymal stem cells and synthesized exosomes overexpressing miR-128 (HMSC-128-EV). The effects of miR-128 on the migration and invasion abilities, apoptosis and epithelial-mesenchymal transition of BUC T24 cells were investigated by co-culturing HMSC-128-EV. The therapeutic potential of miR-128 on disease models was explored by injecting HMSC-128-EV into nude mice.

Results: The expression of CCL18 in UCs was significantly higher than that in normal tissues (p < 0.05), and the serum level of CCL18 in patients with UC was significantly increased compared with those in healthy controls (p < 0.05). CCL18 overexpression or downregulation enhanced or suppressed the proliferation, migration and invasion of BUC T24 cells, resectively (p < 0.05). The exosome-transmitted miR-128 can inhibit cell proliferation (p < 0.05), invasion (p < 0.05), and migration (p < 0.05) in UCs, and these effects can be reversed by CCL18. In terms of apoptosis, miR-128 was able to promote the occurrence of BUC T24 apoptosis (p < 0.05), which can also be reversed by CCL18. In addition, miR-128 can inhibit the proliferation (p < 0.05) and metastasis (p < 0.05) of UCs in nude mice.

Conclusion: The miR-128 inhibits the proliferation, invasion, migration of UCs, and promotes its apoptosis by regulating CCL18 secretion.

Urinary Large Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma: A Clinicopathologic Analysis of 22 Cases

Large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) of the urinary tract is a rare disease. We present a relatively large retrospective cohort of urinary LCNEC, 20 from the urinary bladder, and 2 from the ureter, from a single institution. The patients included 16 men and 6 women with a median age of 74.5 years. Most LCNEC presented at an advanced stage with tumors invading the muscularis propria and beyond (21/22). Eight cases were pure LCNEC, while 14 cases were mixed with other histologic types, including conventional urothelial carcinoma (n=9), carcinoma in situ (n=7), small cell carcinoma (n=6), and urothelial carcinoma with glandular (n=3) features. Most LCNEC expressed neuroendocrine markers synaptophysin (22/22), chromogranin (13/16), CD56 (7/7), TTF1 (8/8), and INSM1 (2/3). They were negative for common urothelial markers including HMWCK (0/3), p40/p63 (0/6), CK20 (0/10), and had variable GATA3 staining (4/8). Ki-67 stained 25% to nearly 100% tumor cell nuclei. Patient survival was associated with cancer stage, and pure LCNEC showed worse survival than mixed LCNEC. Compared with small cell carcinoma at similar stages from a prior study, LCNEC had a worse prognosis only when patients developed metastatic disease. For organ-confined LCNEC, neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by radical resection is the treatment option to achieve long-term survival.

Propofol modulates the proliferation, invasion and migration of bladder cancer cells through the miR‑145‑5p/TOP2A axis

Propofol‑based anesthesia has been reported to reduce the recurrence and metastasis of a number of cancer types following surgical resection. However, the effects of propofol in bladder cancer (BC) are yet to be fully elucidated. The aim of the present study was to investigate the functions of propofol in BC and their underlying mechanisms. In the study, the expression of microRNA (miR)‑145‑5p in BC tissues and cell lines was evaluated using reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR, and the effects of propofol on BC cells were determined using cell viability, wound healing and Transwell cell invasion assays, bioinformatics analysis, western blotting, immunohistochemistry and in vivo tumor xenograft models. It was found that propofol significantly suppressed the proliferation, migration and invasion of BC cells in vitro. In addition, propofol induced miR‑145‑5p expression in a time‑dependent manner, and miR‑145‑5p knockdown attenuated the inhibitory effects of propofol on the proliferation, migration and invasion of BC cells. Topoisomerase II α (TOP2A) was a direct target of miR‑145‑5p, and silencing TOP2A reversed the effects of miR‑145‑5p knockdown in propofol‑treated cells. Furthermore, propofol suppressed tumor xenograft growth, which was partially attenuated by miR‑145‑5p knockdown. The present study provided novel insight into the advantages of surgical intervention with propofol anesthesia in patients with BC.

Proteomic analysis of urinary and tissue-exudative extracellular vesicles to discover novel bladder cancer biomarkers

Proteomic analysis of urinary extracellular vesicles (EVs) is a powerful approach to discover potential bladder cancer (BCa) biomarkers, however urine contains numerous EVs derived from the kidney and normal urothelial epithelium, which can obfuscate information related to BCa cell-derived EVs. In this study, we combined proteomic analysis of urinary EVs and tissue-exudative EVs (Te-EVs), which were isolated from culture medium of freshly resected viable BCa tissues. Urinary EVs were isolated from urine samples of 11 individuals (7 BCa patients and 4 healthy individuals), and Te-EVs were isolated from 7 BCa tissues. We performed tandem mass tag (TMT)-labeling liquid chromatography (LC-MS/MS) analysis for both urinary EVs and Te-EVs and identified 1960 proteins in urinary EVs and 1538 proteins in Te-EVs. Most of the proteins identified in Te-EVs were also present in urinary EVs (82.4%), with 55 of these proteins showing upregulated levels in the urine of BCa patients (fold change > 2.0; P < .1). Among them, we selected 22 membrane proteins as BCa biomarker candidates for validation using selected reaction monitoring/multiple reaction monitoring (SRM/MRM) analysis on urine samples from 70 individuals (40 BCa patients and 30 healthy individuals). Six urinary EV proteins (heat-shock protein 90, syndecan-1, myristoylated alanine-rich C-kinase substrate (MARCKS), MARCKS-related protein, tight junction protein ZO-2, and complement decay-accelerating factor) were quantified using SRM/MRM analysis and validated as significantly upregulated in BCa patients (P < .05). In conclusion, the novel strategy that combined proteomic analysis of urinary EVs and Te-EVs enabled selective detection of urinary BCa biomarkers.

MiR-495 regulates cell proliferation and apoptosis in H2O2 stimulated rat spinal cord neurons through targeting signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3)

Background

MicroRNA-495 (miR-495) is a post-translational modulator that performs several functions, and it is involved in several disease states. On the other hand, the physiological functions of miR-495 in H₂O₂ stimulated mouse spinal cord neuronal dysfunction have not yet been fully understood.

Methods

In this study, we speculated that miR-495 may regulate the expression of STAT3 in the processes of neuronal proliferation and apoptosis following spinal cord injury (SCI). Cell viability was assessed with methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay. Caspase-3 activity was assayed with ELISA. Cellular apoptotic changes were measured with TUNEL assay. Intracellular ROS production was determined by measuring uptake of dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA; PCR was used to assay the mRNA expression of STAT3 gene bearing predicted targeting positions for miR-495, while qRT-PCR was used to measure miR-495 mRNA.

Results

The results demonstrated that treatment of SCNs with H₂O₂ led to a significant decrease in cell survival, while it enhanced apoptosis. The H₂O₂ treatment induced cell membrane dysfunction, and increased ROS levels and DNA damage. Interestingly, the expression of miR-495 was markedly suppressed when SCNs were exposed to H₂O₂. However, miR-495 overexpression reversed H₂O₂-induced cytotoxicity and apoptosis in SCNs. Moreover, H₂O₂ exposure elevated protein and mRNA concentrations of STAT3 in SCNs. Bioinformatics analysis showed likely binding domains of miR-495 in the 3'-untranslated regions of STAT3 in SCNs. MiR-495 loss-of-function and gain-of-function significantly up-regulated and down-regulated both STAT3 mRNA and protein expressions, respectively, in SCNs.

Conclusions

miR-495 overexpression inhibited H₂O₂-induced SCN dysfunction. This mechanism was mediated through the down-regulation of STAT3 expression.

SDC1 promotes cisplatin resistance in hepatic carcinoma cells via PI3K-AKT pathway

This study is to analyze the potential contribution of Syndecan 1 (SDC1) to cisplatin resistance in hepatic carcinoma. Cell proliferation and viability were determined by direct counting and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, respectively. The protein levels of SDC1, p-AKT, AKT and β-actin were quantified by western blotting. The SDC1 transcript abundance was measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction. The relative expression of SDC1 in clinical liver tumor samples was analyzed with immunohistochemistry. SDC1 was up-regulated in cisplatin-resistant HepG2 cells (denoted as HepG2 CR hereafter). SDC1-knockdown re-sensitized HepG2 CR cells to cisplatin treatment. Ectopic over-expression of SDC1 conferred drug resistance to naïve HepG2 cells. PI3K/AKT pathway was over-activated in HepG2 CR cells, and simultaneous administration with PI3K inhibitor greatly surmounted the resistance. We also demonstrated that SDC1 was aberrantly up-regulated in clinical hepatocellular carcinoma samples. Our study highlighted the importance of SDC1-PI3K/AKT signaling in the cisplatin resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma.

Small cell carcinoma of the bladder: the characteristics of molecular alterations, treatment, and follow-up

Small cell carcinoma of the bladder (SCCB) is a rare disease associated with high invasiveness and mortality. Histologically, SCCB is difficult to distinguish from small cell lung cancer (SCLC); however, it shares more similar molecular alterations with urothelial carcinoma (UC). As a result, now, the widely accepted theory about the cells of origin is that SCCB and UC probably have a common clone origin. Even the former probably comes from a preexisting UC. At present, given its rarity, early diagnoses, treatments, and follow-ups are not well established, which are vital to patients with SCCB. Inspirationally, in recent years, with the development of molecular diagnostic methods, molecular alterations of SCCB have been understood partially, which are propitious to excavate new potential therapeutic strategies and establish sound follow-ups. Therefore, the future will be light for patients with SCCB.

Celecoxib inhibits the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in bladder cancer via the miRNA-145/TGFBR2/Smad3 axis

Celecoxib, a selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor, has chemo-preventive activity against different cancer types, including bladder cancer (BC). However, the mechanisms by which celecoxib exerts its cancer preventative effects have yet to be completely understood. In the present study, the effect of celecoxib on the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of BC cells and its potential molecular mechanisms were investigated. The results of the present study demonstrated that celecoxib inhibited the proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT of BC cells. Further investigation of the underlying mechanism revealed that celecoxib inhibited EMT by upregulating microRNA (miR)-145 and downregulating the expression of transforming growth factor β receptor 2 and SMAD family member 3. Furthermore, the combination of celecoxib with miR-145 mimics demonstrated an additive migration and invasion-inhibitory effect in BC cell lines.

A Feedback Loop Formed by ATG7/Autophagy, FOXO3a/miR-145 and PD-L1 Regulates Stem-Like Properties and Invasion in Human Bladder Cancer

Programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) and its ligand PD-L1 blockade have been identified to target immune checkpoints to treat human cancers with durable clinical benefit. Several studies reveal that the response to PD-1-PD-L1 blockade might correlate with PD-L1 expression levels in tumor cells. However, the mechanistic pathways that regulate PD-L1 protein expression are not understood. Here, we reported that PD-L1 protein is regulated by ATG7-autophagy with an ATG7-initiated positive feedback loop in bladder cancer (BC). Mechanistic studies revealed that ATG7 overexpression elevates PD-L1 protein level mainly through promoting autophagy-mediated degradation of FOXO3a, thereby inhibiting its initiated miR-145 transcription. The lower expression of miR-145 increases pd-l1 mRNA stability due to the reduction of its direct binding to 3'-UTR of pd-l1 mRNA, in turn leading to increasing in pd-l1 mRNA stability and expression, and finally enhancing stem-like property and invasion of BC cells. Notably, overexpression of PD-L1 in ATG7 knockdown cells can reverse the defect of autophagy activation, FOXO3A degradation, and miR-145 transcription attenuation. Collectively, our results revealed a positive feedback loop to promoting PD-L1 expression in human BC cells. Our study uncovers a novel molecular mechanism for regulating pd-l1 mRNA stability and expression via ATG7/autophagy/FOXO3A/miR-145 axis and reveals the potential for using combination treatment with autophagy inhibitors and PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint blockade to enhance therapeutic efficacy for human BCs.

Overexpression of MALAT1 contributes to cervical cancer progression by acting as a sponge of miR-429

Cervical cancer remains a malignant type of tumor and is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death among females. MALAT1 has been identified as a tumor oncogene in various cancers. Our present study aimed to explore the biological role of MALAT1 in cervical cancer. We observed that MALAT1 was significantly upregulated in human cervical cancer cell lines compared with the ectocervical epithelial cells. MALAT1 was repressed by transfection with LV-shMALAT1, whereas increased by LV-MALAT1 in HeLa and Caski cells. Silencing of MALAT1 obviously reduced cervical cell viability, induced cell apoptosis, and repressed cell invasion capacity. Conversely, overexpression of MALAT1 exhibited an opposite phenomenon. Furthermore, miR-429 was predicted as a direct target of MALAT1, and it was dramatically decreased in cervical cancer cells. It has been shown that miR-429 plays a crucial role in cervical cancer progression. In our current study, the targeting correlation between MALAT1 and miR-429 was confirmed by luciferase reporter assays and RIP experiments. Finally, in vivo animal models were established, and we indicated that MALAT1 inhibited cervical cancer progression via targeting miR-429. These findings revealed that MALAT1 can sponge miR-429 and regulate cervical cancer pathogenesis in vivo and in vitro. In conclusion, we indicated that the MALAT1/miR-429 axis was involved in cervical cancer development.

NACC1, as a Target of MicroRNA-331-3p, Regulates Cell Proliferation in Urothelial Carcinoma Cells

The nucleus accumbens-associated protein 1 (NACC1) is a transcription factor constitutively expressed in the urothelium, where it regulates cell growth, senescence, autophagy, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. microRNA (miRNA) constitutes a class of small non-coding RNAs which are involved in cell proliferation, differentiation, and progression of tumors. miRNAs and their target molecules are utilized for molecular diagnosis of urothelial carcinoma. NACC1 is one of several putative target molecules of miR-331-3p, and is associated with cell proliferation in cancers such as prostate and cervical cancer. Functional experiments involving miR-331-3p and its target molecule NACC1 were conducted using the urothelial carcinoma (UC) cell lines, T24, UMUC6, and KU7. Furthermore, quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunostaining were performed to evaluate the expression of NACC1 in UC derived from transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TUR-Bt) specimens. The methane thiosulfonate (MTS) assay revealed that cell proliferation was significantly reduced after transient transfection of miR-331-3p precursor and/or NACC1 siRNA in UC cells. Cell senescence via cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase was induced by NACC1 inhibition. On the other hand, suppression of NACC1 induced cell migration and invasion abilities. Immunohistochemical analysis of TUR-Bt specimens revealed that over 70% of UC cells presented strongly positive results for NACC1. In contrast, normal urothelial cells were weakly positive for NACC1. It was also found that NACC1 expression was lower in invasive UC cells than in non-invasive UC cells. Loss of NACC1 induced vessel invasion in invasive UC tissues. The present results indicate that NACC1 regulated by miR-331-3p contributes to cell proliferation, and is involved in cell migration and invasion. This suggests that NACC1 can serve as a potential target molecule for the prediction and prognosis of UC, and can contribute to effective treatment strategies.

miR-145-5p inhibits the proliferation and migration of bladder cancer cells by targeting TAGLN2

MicroRNA-145-5p (miR-145-5p) is found to be involved in tumor development and progression. However, there are few studies on the effects of miR-145-5p on bladder cancer (BC). The role of miR-145-5p in BC was predicted by analysis of cell proliferation and migration in this study. The miR-145-5p and transgelin-2 (TAGLN2) expressions were evaluated via reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) or western blot analysis. The MTT and Transwell assay assessed cell proliferation and migration. TAGLN2 targeted to miR-145-5p was determined using luciferase assays. The results showed that the miR-145-5p downregulation was found in BC. miR-145-5p overexpression inhibited cell proliferation and migration in BC. Moreover, miR-145-5p directly targeted TAGLN2, and TAGLN2 expression was increased in BC. In addition, the high expression of TAGLN2 promoted cell proliferation and migration in BC. miR-145-5p appeared to regulate TAGLN2 in BC, and it also inhibited the cell proliferation and migration. The novel miR-145-5p/TAGLN2 axis may provide new therapeutic implications for BC.

miR‑501‑3p sensitizes glioma cells to cisplatin by targeting MYCN

Cisplatin, a commonly used chemotherapeutic agent for glioma patients, treatment often leads to chemoresistance. Accumulating evidence has demosntrated that microRNA (miRNA/miR) is involved in drug resistance of glioma cells. Nevertheless, the role of miR‑501‑3p in glioma cell resistance to cisplatin is unclear. In the present study, it was revealed that miR‑501‑3p expression was decreased in glioma tissues and further underexpressed in cisplatin‑resistant glioma cells compared with wild‑type (WT) glioma cells. Furthermore, cisplatin treatment inhibited the level of miR‑501‑3p in a time‑dependent way. Ectopic expression of miR‑501‑3p suppressed glioma cell growth and invasion, but increased cisplatin‑resistant glioma cell apoptosis. Furthermore, miR‑501‑3p sensitized glioma cells to cisplatin‑induced proliferation arrest and death. Mechanistically, it was demonstrated that miR‑501‑3p targeted MYCN in glioma cells. In addition, it was revealed that miR‑501‑3p inhibited MYCN expression by a luciferase reporter assay and reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Notably, restoration of MYCN reversed the effects of miR‑501‑3p in cisplatin‑resistant glioma cells. In conclusion, these results suggested that miR‑501‑3p may serve a promising marker for cisplatin resistance.

miR-145 protects the function of neuronal stem cells through targeting MAPK pathway in the treatment of cerebral ischemic stroke rat

This study is designed to investigate the function of the miR-145 in the protection of neural stem cells (NSCs) through targeting mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway in the treatment of cerebral ischemic stroke rat. In our study, rat NSCs were selected and cultured in complete medium. The light microscopy was used to observe the morphology of NSCs at different times. The quantitative reverse transcriptase real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to detect the miR-145 and other related mRNAs of the MARK pathway. The Western blotting was used to detect the activation of MAPK pathway and neuronal specific markers. The Immunofluorescence was used to detect the expression of the neuron-specific enolase. And the cell viability was detected by Cell Counting Kit (CCK)-8 assay. The flow cytometry was used to test the cell cycle and apoptosis. The ischemic stroke rat models were established and neural stem cell transplantation was performed. The neurological function score, balance beam experiment, and cortical Nissl staining were used to evaluate the postoperative neurological function in rats. The expression of miR-145, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), and p38 mRNA in rat NSCs increased in a time-dependent manner. Compared with the Blank group, the over-expression of miR-145 promoted the expression of related mRNA and protein of the MAPK pathway in NSCs, while the decreased expression of miR-145 suppressed the MAPK Pathways. Compared with the Blank group, over-expression of miR-145 in NSCs promoted the up-regulation of Cyclin D1, Nestin, neuron-specific enolase (NSE), and Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) proteins, enhanced the activity of NSCs, and promoted cell proliferation and differentiation, while inhibited the cell apoptosis and the Cleaved-caspase 3 expression. After treatment of NSCs in the SB203580 group, the Nestin, NSE, and GFAP were decreased; cell viability, proliferation and differentiation were inhibited, while Cleaved-caspase 3 protein and cell apoptosis rate increased. The results of animal experiments showed that compared with the Blank group, the walking ability and neurological impairment recovered rapidly in the rats after transplantation of NSCs with over-expression of miR-145, and more neurons were generated in the cortex. After the transplantation of SB203580-treated NSCs, the walking ability and neurological impairment of the rats were slower and the cortical neurons were less. We conclude that miR-145 protects the function of neuronal stem cells through targeting MAPK pathway in the treatment of cerebral ischemic stroke rat.

Mining of potential microRNAs with clinical correlation - regulation of syndecan-1 expression by miR-122-5p altered mobility of breast cancer cells and possible correlation with liver injury

MicroRNAs are small noncoding RNAs acting as novel biomarkers of various diseases and potential regulators of protein expression and functions. Syndecan-1 is the heparan sulfate proteoglycan associated with malignancy of various cancers, including breast cancer. In this study, we proposed a experimental workflow to investigate potential microRNAs that regulate SDC1 expression and affect breast cancer cell mobility. MicroRNA candidates were selected from available Gene Expression Omnibus datasets on breast malignancy. Further in silico duplex hybridization and multiplex PCR approach were used to screen potential microRNAs. Analysis showed increased syndecan-1 expression but decreased miR-122-5p level upon breast malignancy. Western blot and in vitro luciferase assay confirmed the targeting of 3'-untranslated region of syndecan-1 and suppression of syndecan-1 expression by miR-122-5p. The suppression of syndecan-1 expression by miR-122-5p or shRNAs against syndecan-1 increased breast cancer cell mobility; while overexpression of syndecan-1 inhibited cell mobility. In further, miR-122-5p was enriched in liver cell-derived exosomes that was able to suppress syndecan-1 expression and increase cell mobility in breast cancer cells. In conclusion, our results suggested the downregulation of SDC1 by miR-122-5p or liver-cell-derived exosomes would enhance breast cancer cell mobility. Metastasis or mobility of breast cancer cells might be affected by circulating miR-122-5p and not directly correlated with progression of breast cancer.

An integrated analysis of key microRNAs, regulatory pathways and clinical relevance in bladder cancer

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to identify the key microRNAs (miRNAs) and their regulatory networks in bladder cancer (BC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Three miRNA and three gene expression microarray datasets were downloaded for analysis from Gene Expression Omnibus database. The differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were accessed by the use of GEO2R. Gene ontology process and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analyses were performed by using the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery program. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) and miRNA-mRNA regulatory networks were established by using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins and Cytoscape tool. Besides, the results and clinical significance were validated in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset.

RESULTS

A total of 18 significant DEMs, 121 upregulated DEGs and 199 downregulated DEGs were identified. Functional enrichment analysis showed that significant DEGs were related to cell cycle and MAPK pathway in BC. Key DEGs such as CDK1, CCNB1, VGL and PRKCA were found as the hub genes in PPI networks. TCGA analysis supported our results, and the miRNAs were correlated with the pathological stages and survival of BC patients.

CONCLUSION

In this study, we found 18 DEMs that may play key roles in the regulatory networks of BC. The higher expression of miR-99a, miR-100, miR-125b, miR-145, miR-214 and miR-487b or the lower expression of miR-138 and miR-200a can indicate poor survival in the prognosis of BC. Further experimental studies are required to test our results.

Small cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder: a clinicopathological and immunohistochemical analysis of 81 cases

Small cell carcinoma (SmCC) of the bladder is a rare disease. We retrospectively studied a large series of bladder SmCC from a single institution. The patients included 69 men and 12 women with a mean age of 68 years. Most bladder SmCCs were presented at advanced stage, with tumors invading the muscularis propria and beyond (n = 77). SmCC was pure in 27 cases and mixed with other histologic types in 54 cases, including urothelial carcinoma (UC) (n = 32), UC in situ (n = 26), glandular (n = 14), micropapillary (n = 4), sarcomatoid (n = 4), squamous (n = 3), and plasmacytoid (n = 1) features. Most SmCCs expressed neuroendocrine markers synaptophysin (41/56), chromogranin (26/55), and CD56 (39/41); however, they did not express UC luminal markers CK20 (0/17), GATA3 (1/30), and uroplakin II (1/22). Some SmCCs showed focal expression of CK5/6 (9/25), a marker for the basal molecular subtype. Furthermore, expression of the retinoblastoma 1 (RB1) gene protein was lost in most of the bladder SmCCs (2/23). The patients' survival was significantly associated with cancer stage but did not show a significant difference between mixed and pure SmCCs. Compared with conventional UC at similar stages, SmCC had a worse prognosis only when patients developed metastatic diseases. In conclusion, bladder SmCC is an aggressive disease that is frequently present at an advanced stage. A fraction of SmCCs show a basal molecular subtype, which may underlie its good response to chemotherapy. Inactivation of the RB1 gene may be implicated in the oncogenesis of bladder SmCC.

MicroRNAs in Smoking-Related Carcinogenesis: Biomarkers, Functions, and Therapy

Long-term heavy cigarette smoking is a well-known high-risk factor for carcinogenesis in various organs such as the head and neck, lungs, and urinary bladder. Furthermore, cigarette smoking can systemically accelerate aging, and as the result, promoting carcinogenesis via changing the host microenvironment. Various inflammatory factors, hormones, and chemical mediators induced by smoking mediate carcinoma-related molecules and induce carcinogenesis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a family of short noncoding RNA molecules that bind to mRNAs and inhibit their expression. Cigarette smoke induces the expression of various miRNAs, many of which are known to function in the post-transcriptional silencing of anticancer molecules, thereby leading to smoking-induced carcinogenesis. Analysis of expression profiles of smoking-induced miRNAs can help identify biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of smoking-related cancers and prediction of therapeutic responses, as well as revealing promising therapeutic targets. Here, we introduce the most recent and useful findings of miRNA analyses focused on lung cancer and urinary bladder cancer, which are strongly associated with cigarette smoking, and discuss the utility of miRNAs as clinical biomarkers.

Insights into the key roles of epigenetics in matrix macromolecules-associated wound healing

Extracellular matrix (ECM) is a dynamic network of macromolecules, playing a regulatory role in cell functions, tissue regeneration and remodeling. Wound healing is a tissue repair process necessary for the maintenance of the functionality of tissues and organs. This highly orchestrated process is divided into four temporally overlapping phases, including hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation and tissue remodeling. The dynamic interplay between ECM and resident cells exerts its critical role in many aspects of wound healing, including cell proliferation, migration, differentiation, survival, matrix degradation and biosynthesis. Several epigenetic regulatory factors, such as the endogenous non-coding microRNAs (miRNAs), are the drivers of the wound healing response. microRNAs have pivotal roles in regulating ECM composition during wound healing and dermal regeneration. Their expression is associated with the distinct phases of wound healing and they serve as target biomarkers and targets for systematic regulation of wound repair. In this article we critically present the importance of epigenetics with particular emphasis on miRNAs regulating ECM components (i.e. glycoproteins, proteoglycans and matrix proteases) that are key players in wound healing. The clinical relevance of miRNA targeting as well as the delivery strategies designed for clinical applications are also presented and discussed.

The dark side of SOX2: cancer - a comprehensive overview

The pluripotency-associated transcription factor SOX2 is essential during mammalian embryogenesis and later in life, but SOX2 expression can also be highly detrimental. Over the past 10 years, SOX2 has been shown to be expressed in at least 25 different cancers. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the roles of SOX2 in cancer and focuses on two broad topics. The first delves into the expression and function of SOX2 in cancer focusing on the connection between SOX2 levels and tumor grade as well as patient survival. As part of this discussion, we address the developing connection between SOX2 expression and tumor drug resistance. We also call attention to an under-appreciated property of SOX2, its levels in actively proliferating tumor cells appear to be optimized to maximize tumor growth - too little or too much SOX2 dramatically alters tumor growth. The second topic of this review focuses on the exquisite array of molecular mechanisms that control the expression and transcriptional activity of SOX2. In addition to its complex regulation at the transcriptional level, SOX2 expression and activity are controlled carefully by microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and post-translational modifications. In the Conclusion and Future Perspectives section, we point out that there are still important unanswered questions. Addressing these questions is expected to lead to new insights into the functions of SOX2 in cancer, which will help design novels strategies for more effectively treating some of the most deadly cancers.

Squamous differentiation in patients with superficial bladder urothelial carcinoma is associated with high risk of recurrence and poor survival

Background

The independent prognostic role of squamous differentiation in pT1 bladder urothelial carcinoma has not been reported in previous studies. This article describes the impact of squamous differentiation on tumor recurrence and survival, and whether this histologic variant could indeed alter definitive treatment, based on single center-based retrospective data.

Methods

Totally, we retrieved (1)1449 histologically confirmed pT1 bladder urothelial carcinoma patients without histologic variants; (2)227 pT1 bladder urothelial carcinoma patients with squamous differentiation in our institution, from May 2004 to Oct 2015. The total amount of high/low grade urothelial carcinoma patients was 991/685 respectively. Transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) and intravesical chemotherapy were performed as initial treatments for all the patients. The clinical and pathological characteristics, treatment and survival outcomes were compared between squamous differentiation-positive and squamous differentiation-negative patients.

Results

In our study, 14% urothelial carcinoma patients were detected with squamous differentiation. The mean age of all the patients examined was 66.4, of whom 82% were males. The 5-year cancer specific survival rates were 69% for squamous differentiation-positive patients and 91% for squamous differentiation-negative patients (p < 0.001). Recurrence proved to be more common in squamous differentiation-positive patients than in negative patients. In the results of the univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard analysis, tumor size, lymphovascular invasion, recurrence and squamous differentiation were confirmed to be the prognostic factors associated with patients’ survival.

Conclusions

Squamous differentiation in pT1 bladder urothelial carcinoma is correlated to high risk of recurrence and poor prognosis as an independent prognostic factor. Radical cystectomy is essential for recurred high grade pT1 bladder urothelial carcinoma with squamous differentiation accompanied by lymphovascular invasion.

miRNA‑1271 inhibits cell proliferation in neuroglioma by targeting fibronectin 1

miR-1271 is a multifunctional post-translational modulator, which is involved in several diseases. However, the association between microRNA (miR)-1271 and fibronectin 1 (FN1) remains to be fully elucidated in neuroglioma. In the present study, it was hypothesized that a post-translational mechanism of miR-1271 regulates the expression of FN1 in the progression of neuroglioma. The present study aimed to investigate the clinical significance and underlying molecular mechanisms of miRNA-1271 in the development of glioma. The miR-1271 levels in glioma tissues and cell lines were assessed using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). miR-1271 mimics and inhibitors were transfected to gain or loss of miR-1271 function. Cell proliferation was analyzed by using an MTT assay. The targeted genes were predicted by a bioinformatics algorithm and confirmed by a dual luciferase reporter assay. The mRNA and protein levels were assessed by RT-qPCR and western blotting. The results showed that miR-1271 was downregulated in glioma tumor tissues and cell lines. In addition, it was demonstrated that low levels of miR-1271 in patients with glioma were correlated with low survival rate. In vitro, the cell viability was significantly suppressed following transfection with miRNA-1271 mimics and increased following transfection with the miRNA-1271 inhibitor. The miRNA-1271 mimics induced cell apoptosis and the miRNA-1271 inhibitor suppressed cell apoptosis in H4 and U251 cell lines. Furthermore, the 3′-untranslated region of FN1 was bound by miR-1271. Therefore, it was concluded that miR-1271 inhibited glioma cell growth by targeting FN1, and a low level of miR-1271 in glioma tumor tissues was associated with lower survival rates in patients with glioma.

ΔNp63α and microRNAs: leveraging the epithelial-mesenchymal transition

The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a cellular reprogramming mechanism that is an underlying cause of cancer metastasis. Recent investigations have uncovered an intricate network of regulation involving the TGFβ, Wnt, and Notch signaling pathways and small regulatory RNA species called microRNAs (miRNAs). The activity of a transcription factor vital to the maintenance of epithelial stemness, ΔNp63α, has been shown to modulate the activity of these EMT pathways to either repress or promote EMT. Furthermore, ΔNp63α is a known regulator of miRNA, including those directly involved in EMT. This review discusses the evidence of ΔNp63α as a master regulator of EMT components and miRNA, highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of its role in EMT. This expanded knowledge may provide a basis for new developments in the diagnosis and treatment of metastatic cancer.

miR-429 is involved in regulation of NF-κBactivity by targeting IKKβ and suppresses oncogenic activity in cervical cancer cells

Dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) can contribute to tumorigenesis in cancers. In this study, we found that miR-429 was downregulated in cervical cancer (CC) tissues and suppressed cell viability and proliferation while promoting apoptosis in CC cells. IKKβ was a novel target gene of miR-429 and ectopic expression of IKKβ abrogated the phenotypes induced by miR-429. When IKKβ was downregulated by miR-429, nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) pathway activation, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interferon-β (IFN-β) production were decreased in CC cells. These findings indicate that miR-429 is involved in regulation of the NF-κB pathway by targeting IKKβ and functions as a tumor suppressor in cervical carcinogenesis.

[Modern networks : Topics in the working group "Bladder cancer research" of the GeSRU Academics]

In January 2015, the research group "bladder cancer research" was founded as part of the GeSRU Academics research initiative. A general challenge to work successfully in a novel network structure is to identify common scientific topics and technical expertise in the group. Thus, one of the first tasks was to learn about current research projects from members within the group in order to address a project that suits the group's expertise. The following review summarizes three different directions that are key projects in Urologic Departments at German Universities that will be the basis to start fruitful collaborations.

MicroRNA-331-3p Suppresses Cervical Cancer Cell Proliferation and E6/E7 Expression by Targeting NRP2

Aberrant expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) is involved in the development and progression of various types of cancers. In this study, we investigated the role of miR-331-3p in cell proliferation and the expression of keratinocyte differentiation markers of uterine cervical cancer cells. Moreover, we evaluated whether neuropilin 2 (NRP2) are putative target molecules that regulate the human papillomavirus (HPV) related oncoproteins E6 and E7. Cell proliferation in the human cervical cancer cell lines SKG-II, HCS-2, and HeLa was assessed using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium, inner salt (MTS) assay. Cellular apoptosis was measured using the TdT-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) and Annexin V assays. Quantitative RT-PCR was used to measure the messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of the NRP2, E6, E7, p63, and involucrin (IVL) genes. A functional assay for cell growth was performed using cell cycle analyses. Overexpression of miR-331-3p inhibited cell proliferation, and induced G2/M phase arrest and apoptosis in SKG-II, HCS-2 and HeLa cells. The luciferase reporter assay of the NRP2 3′-untranslated region revealed the direct regulation of NRP2 by miR-331-3p. Gene expression analyses using quantitative RT-PCR in SKG-II, HCS-2, and HeLa cells overexpressing miR-331-3p or suppressing NRP2 revealed down-regulation of E6, E7, and p63 mRNA and up-regulation of IVL mRNA. Moreover, miR-331-3p overexpression was suppressed NRP2 expression in protein level. We showed that miR-331-3p and NRP2 were key effectors of cell proliferation by regulating the cell cycle, apoptosis. NRP-2 also regulates the expression of E6/E7 and keratinocyte differentiation markers. Our findings suggest that miR-331-3p has an important role in regulating cervical cancer cell proliferation, and that miR-331-3p may contribute to keratinocyte differentiation through NRP2 suppression. miR-331-3p and NRP2 may contribute to anti-cancer effects.

A Functional rs353293 Polymorphism in the Promoter of miR-143/145 Is Associated with a Reduced Risk of Bladder Cancer

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

MicroRNA (miR)-143/145, known as tumor suppressors, can promote cell apoptosis and differentiation, and suppress cell proliferation, invasion and migration. We performed a case-control study to investigate the association of rs353293 in the promoter region of miR-143/145 with bladder cancer risk.

METHODS

In total, 869 subjects including 333 cases and 536 controls were enrolled in this study, and the rs353293 polymorphism was genotyped by using a Taqman assay. The promoter activity was measured by the Dual-Luciferase Assay System.

RESULTS

We calculated an adjusted odds ratio of 0.64 for the presence of either AA/AG genotypes (95% CI 0.46-0.90) and 0.64 (95% CI 0.47-0.87) for carrying at least one A allele in bladder cancer. Stratified analyses showed that the AA/AG genotypes and the A allele were less prevalent in patients with low grade tumors, compared to those harboring higher grade bladder cancers (adjusted OR = 0.53, 95% CI, 0.30-0.94, P = 0.03 and adjusted OR = 0.54, 95% CI, 0.32-0.92, P = 0.02, respectively). In vitro luciferase reporter analysis showed that rs353293A allele had a lower activity compared with the rs353293G allele (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that the functional rs353293 polymorphism may be a useful biomarker to predict the risk of bladder cancer.

SOX2 suppresses the mobility of urothelial carcinoma by promoting the expression of S100A14

Sex-determining region Y (SRY)-box protein 2 (SOX2) plays a critical role in stem cell maintenance and carcinogenesis. In addition to its function as a minor-groove DNA binding transcription factor, our previous study showed that SOX2 also acts as a RNA binding protein. In current study, we first showed that SOX2 displayed high affinity toward the mRNA encoding S100A14 in BFTC905 and that depletion of SOX2 resulted in a decrease of S100A14 mRNA and protein level. To characterize the RNA binding sequence recognized by SOX2, oligomer-directed RNase H digestion was coupled to the cross-linking before immunoprecipitation assay to demonstrate that SOX2 preferentially binds to the 3′-UTR of the S100A14 mRNA. Using EGFP-S100A14 3′-UTR reporters and mobility shift assay, we identified that the binding sequence on the 3′-UTR of the S100A14 mRNA exhibits a stem-loop structure. Together, our data indicates that SOX2 enhances S100A14 expression by binding to the 3′-UTR of the S100A14 mRNA. Functionally, depletion of SOX2 increases growth and mobility of BFTC905. Knock-down of S100A14 in BFTC905 also leads to an increase in the number of the cells in the S phase and higher mobility, suggesting that SOX2 suppresses cell growth and mobility through promoting the expression of S100A14. Together, our experimental evidence indicates that SOX2 is capable of exerting its cellular functions by functioning as an RNA binding protein in post-transcriptional regulation.

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SOX2 binds to the S100A14 mRNA and promotes the expression of S100A14.

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The SOX2 binding site on the S100A14 mRNA 3′UTR consists of an stem-loop structure.

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Suppression of SOX2 expression promotes growth and mobility of BFTC905.

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S100A14 functions to retard cell cycle progression and mobility.