MiR-216b inhibits cell proliferation by targeting FOXM1 in cervical cancer cells and is associated with better prognosis

MicroRNAs as the critical regulators of Forkhead box protein family during gynecological and breast tumor progression and metastasis

Gynecological and breast tumors are one of the main causes of cancer-related mortalities among women. Despite recent advances in diagnostic and therapeutic methods, tumor relapse is observed in a high percentage of these patients due to the treatment failure. Late diagnosis in advanced tumor stages is one of the main reasons for the treatment failure and recurrence in these tumors. Therefore, it is necessary to assess the molecular mechanisms involved in progression of these tumors to introduce the efficient early diagnostic markers. Fokhead Box (FOX) is a family of transcription factors with a key role in regulation of a wide variety of cellular mechanisms. Deregulation of FOX proteins has been observed in different cancers. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) as a group of non-coding RNAs have important roles in post-transcriptional regulation of the genes involved in cellular mechanisms. They are also the non-invasive diagnostic markers due to their high stability in body fluids. Considering the importance of FOX proteins in the progression of breast and gynecological tumors, we investigated the role of miRNAs in regulation of the FOX proteins in these tumors. MicroRNAs were mainly involved in progression of these tumors through FOXM, FOXP, and FOXO. The present review paves the way to suggest a non-invasive diagnostic panel marker based on the miRNAs/FOX axis in breast and gynecological cancers.

MicroRNA-106b-5p (miR-106b-5p) suppresses the proliferation and metastasis of cervical cancer cells via down-regulating fibroblast growth factor 4 (FGF4) expression

This study aims to investigate the function and mechanism of microRNA-106b-5p (miR-106b-5p) in cervical cancer (CC). Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was performed to determine miR-106b-5p expression in CC tissues and normal gastric tissues. Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) and colony formation assays were used to analyze the regulatory effects of miR-106b-5p on CC cells' proliferative ability. Wound healing and Transwell assays were conducted to detect the effects of miR-106b-5p on cell migration and invasion. Besides, TargetScan was used to predict the potential target genes of miR-106b-5p. The interaction between miR-106b-5p and fibroblast growth factor 4 (FGF4) was proved by qRT-PCR, Western blot, and dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. MiR-106b-5p expression was down-regulated in CC tissues compared to non-tumorous tissues. The expression of miR-106b-5p was associated with the lymphatic node metastasis, FIGO stage and differentiation of CC. Functional assays revealed that miR-106b-5p overexpression suppressed CC cell proliferation, migration and invasion while miR-106b-5p inhibitor had the opposite effects. In addition, FGF4 was identified as a target gene of miR-106b-5p, and FGF could be negatively regulated by miR-106b-5p. MiR-106b-5p may serve as a tumor suppressor in CC, which can inhibit CC growth and metastasis by down-regulating FGF4 expression.

MicroRNA-877-5p Inhibits Cell Progression by Targeting FOXM1 in Lung Cancer

Background

Many researches revealed that microRNAs (miRNAs) function as potential oncogene or tumor suppressor gene. As an antioncogene, miR-877-5p was reduced in many tumors.

Objective

This research aimed to explore the biological role and mechanisms of miR-877-5p, which may help patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) find effective therapeutic targets.

Methods

The downstream targets of miR-877-5p were predicted by Bioinformatics software. RT-qPCR and western blot were employed to analyze the gene levels. The impacts of miR-877-5p and FOXM1 were assessed by cell function experiments.

Results

The miR-877-5p was reduced in NSCLC. In addition to this, it also inhibited cell progression of NSCLC cells in vitro. Moreover, the upregulation of FOXM1 expression restored the inhibitory effect of enhancement of miR-877-5p.

Conclusions

Taken together, miR-877-5p inhibited cell progression by directly targeting FOXM1, which may provide potential biomarkers for targeted therapy of NSCLC.

Daemonorops draco Blume Induces Apoptosis Against Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells via Regulation of the miR-216b/c-Jun

Daemonorops draco Blume (DD), also called dragon’s blood, has been used as a traditional Korean medicine, especially for relieving pain caused by wound infection. Recently, it has been described that DD has antibacterial and analgesic effects. In this study, the underlying anticancer effect of DD associated with apoptosis was investigated in acute myeloid leukemia cell lines U937 and THP-1. DD exhibited cytotoxic effects and induced apoptosis in U937 and THP-1 cells. Moreover, DD treatment significantly reduced mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨ). The protein expression of cleaved poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase, cleaved caspase-3, p-H2A.X, CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein (CHOP), and activating transcription factor 4 was upregulated by DD treatment. Consistently, DD-treated cells had increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) level in a concentration-dependent manner via miR-216b activation in association with c-Jun inhibition. N-acetyl-L-cysteine pretreatment reversed the cytotoxic effect of DD treatment as well as prevented ROS accumulation. Collectively, the results of this study suggest that the anticancer effect of DD in AML was mediated by CHOP-dependent apoptosis along with ROS accumulation and included upregulation of miR-216b followed by a decrease in c-Jun.

LINC01354/microRNA-216b/KRAS Axis Promotes the Occurrence and Metastasis of Endometrial Cancer

OBJECTIVE

LINC01354 has been defined as a tumor driver in several cancers. Nevertheless, whether LINC01354 involves in endometrial cancer (EC) has been little navigated. Thus, the mechanism of LINC01354 was explored in the disease.

METHODS

Measurements of LINC01354, microRNA (miR)-216b and kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene (KRAS) levels in EC tissues and cells were performed. LINC01354 low expression and miR-216b overexpression vectors were introduced into EC cells (lshikawa), thereby their effects on cell viability, apoptosis, migration and invasion were manifested. Rescue experiments were also carried out by down-regulating LINC01354 and miR-216b spontaneously. Tumorigenesis in vivo was also assessed. The relationships of LINC01354/miR-216b/KRAS were analyzed.

RESULTS

Increased LINC01354 and KRAS and reduced miR-216b levels were measured in EC. Silencing LINC01354 or overexpressing miR-216b retarded EC cellular development. LINC01354 counteracted with miR-216b to target KRAS. Suppression of miR-216b antagonized silenced LINC01354-induced impacts on EC cell development. LINC01354/miR-216b/KRAS axis enhanced tumorigenesis in mice with EC.

CONCLUSION

It is testified that silencing LINC01354 inhibits KRAS by up-regulating miR-216b, thereby discouraging cell malignant phenotype in EC.

Hypoxic Breast Cancer Cell-Derived Exosomal SNHG1 Promotes Breast Cancer Growth and Angiogenesis via Regulating miR-216b-5p/JAK2 Axis

Background

Hypoxia is an important process that involved in the tumor microenvironment. In addition, hypoxic tumor cell-derived exosomes could promote tumor growth and angiogenesis. Thus, we aimed to investigate whether exosomes could regulate tumor development and progression under hypoxia in breast cancer.

Methods

The level of SNHG1 in hypoxic breast cancer cells and exosomes derived from hypoxic breast cancer cells was determined by real-time qPCR assay. Bioinformatics prediction and dual-luciferase reporter assays were used to determine the interaction between SNHG1, miR-216b-5p and JAK2.

Results

We found that comparing with exosomes derived from normoxia breast cancer cells, exosomes derived from hypoxic breast cancer cells could promote the proliferation, migration and angiogenesis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). In addition, SNHG1 level was significantly upregulated in exosomes derived from hypoxic breast cancer cells. Moreover, exosome-mediated delivery of SNHG1 siRNA3 markedly reversed the effects of exosome-mediated delivery of SNHG1 on HUVECs. Mechanically, SNHG1 could increase the level of JAK2 by competitively binding to miR-216b-5p. Additionally, exosome-mediated delivery of SNHG1 was found to promote breast cancer growth in vivo.

Conclusion

Collectively, our study revealed that exosomal SNHG1 from hypoxic breast cancer cells could promote tumor angiogenesis and growth via regulating miR-216b-5p/JAK2 axis, suggesting that SNHG1 may serve as a potential therapeutic target for breast cancer.

The expression of miRNA-216b is negatively correlated with 18F-FDG uptake in non-small cell lung cancer

Background

This study aimed to investigate the correlation between miRNA-216b expression in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and ¹⁸F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) uptake by PET/CT and to explore the clinical application value of 18F-FDG PET/CT in miRNA-216b based on therapy for NSCLC.

Methods

Eighty patients with NSCLC and 40 healthy subjects were enrolled in our study. The SUVmax of the lesion area by PET/CT imaging was calculated. SUVmax represented the highest concentration of 18F-FDG in the lesion. The expression of miRNA-216b in the plasma and fiber bronchoscopic puncture of NSCLC patients was detected by RT qPCR. Then Pearson correlation analysis was used to analyze the correlation between miRNA-216b expression and 18F-FDG uptake in patients with different types of NSCLC.

Results

Compared with healthy subjects, SUVmax of early adenocarcinoma and advanced adenocarcinoma were increased. Compared with healthy subjects, SUVmax of early squamous and advanced squamous were increased. And the SUVmax content of advanced adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma was higher than that of early adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Compared with healthy subjects, the expression of miRNA-216b in the plasma of patients with early and advanced adenocarcinoma was reduced, and the expression of miRNA-216b in the plasma of patients with early and advanced squamous cell carcinoma was reduced. Compared with adjacent tissues, the expression of miRNA-216b in early adenocarcinoma tissues and advanced adenocarcinoma tissues was reduced, and the expression in early squamous cell carcinoma and advanced squamous cell carcinoma was reduced. Pearson correlation analysis showed a negative correlation between SUVmax and miRNA-216b (plasma and tissue) in patients with four types of NSCLC.

Conclusion

miRNA-216b expression was negatively correlated with ¹⁸F-FDG uptake in NSCLC. miRNA-216b could be used for the classification and staging of non-small cell lung cancer. ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT may be used to evaluate the therapeutic response in application of miRNA-216b-based cancer treatment.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12957-021-02376-2.

MicroRNA-216b targets HK2 to potentiate autophagy and apoptosis of breast cancer cells via the mTOR signaling pathway

Patients suffering from breast cancer (BC) still have a poor response to treatments, even though early detection and improved therapy have contributed to a reduced mortality. Recent studies have been inspired on the association between microRNAs (miRs) and therapies of BC. The current study set out to investigate the role of miR-216b in BC, and further analyze the underlining mechanism. Firstly, hexokinase 2 (HK2) and miR-216b were characterized in BC tissues and cells by RT-qPCR and Western blot assay. In addition, the interaction between HK2 and miR-216b was analyzed using dual luciferase reporter assay. BC cells were further transfected with a series of miR-126b mimic or inhibitor, or siRNA targeting HK2, so as to analyze the regulatory mechanism of miR-216b, HK2 and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway, and to further explore their regulation in BC cellular behaviors. The results demonstrated that HK2 was highly expressed and miR-216b was poorly expressed in BC cells and tissues. HK2 was also verified as a target of miR-216b with online databases and dual luciferase reporter assay. Functionally, miR-216b was found to be closely associated with BC progression via inactivating mTOR signaling pathway by targeting HK2. Moreover, cell viability, migration and invasion were reduced as a result of miR-216b upregulation or HK2 silencing, while autophagy, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis were induced. Taken together, our findings indicated that miR-216 down-regulates HK2 to inactivate the mTOR signaling pathway, thus inhibiting the progression of BC. Hence, this study highlighted a novel target for BC treatment.

FOXM1: A Multifunctional Oncoprotein and Emerging Therapeutic Target in Ovarian Cancer

Forkhead box M1 (FOXM1) is a member of the conserved forkhead box (FOX) transcription factor family. Over the last two decades, FOXM1 has emerged as a multifunctional oncoprotein and a robust biomarker of poor prognosis in many human malignancies. In this review article, we address the current knowledge regarding the mechanisms of regulation and oncogenic functions of FOXM1, particularly in the context of ovarian cancer. FOXM1 and its associated oncogenic transcriptional signature are enriched in >85% of ovarian cancer cases and FOXM1 expression and activity can be enhanced by a plethora of genomic, transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and post-translational mechanisms. As a master transcriptional regulator, FOXM1 promotes critical oncogenic phenotypes in ovarian cancer, including: (1) cell proliferation, (2) invasion and metastasis, (3) chemotherapy resistance, (4) cancer stem cell (CSC) properties, (5) genomic instability, and (6) altered cellular metabolism. We additionally discuss the evidence for FOXM1 as a cancer biomarker, describe the rationale for FOXM1 as a cancer therapeutic target, and provide an overview of therapeutic strategies used to target FOXM1 for cancer treatment.

Activation of AMPK inhibits Galectin-3-induced pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells proliferation by upregulating hippo signaling effector YAP

Galectin-3(Gal-3) is an effective regulator in the pathological process of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). However, the detailed mechanisms underlying Gal-3 contribution to PAH are not yet entirely clear. The aim of the present study was to explore these issues. Proliferation of rat pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) was determined using 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) was applied to silence the expression of yes-associated protein (YAP) and Forkhead box M1 (FOXM1). The protein expression and phosphorylation were measured by immunoblotting. The subcellular location of YAP was determined using immunoblotting and immunofluorescence. Gal-3-stimulated PASMCs proliferation in a time- and dose-dependent manner, this was accompanied with, YAP upregulation, dephosphorylation, and nucleus translocation. Gal-3 further increased FOXM1 and cyclinD1 expression via YAP activation. Interfering YAP/FOXM1 axis suppressed Gal-3-induced PASMCs proliferation. Activation of AMPK also inhibited Gal-3-triggered cells proliferation by targeting YAP/FOXM1/cyclinD1 pathway. Gal-3 induced PASMCs proliferation by regulating YAP/FOXM1/cyclinD1 signaling cascade, and activation of AMPK targeted on this axis and suppressed Gal-3-stimulated PASMCs proliferation. Our study provides novel therapeutic targets for prevention and treatment of PAH.

MicroRNA-216b regulates cell proliferation, invasion and cycle progression via interaction with cyclin T2 in gastric cancer

Gastric cancer has become the second most common malignant tumor in the world, revealing the molecular mechanism of gastric cancer development is essential for the treatment of gastric cancer and improvement of prognosis. Recent studies have shown that microRNAs may play a carcinogenic or tumor-suppressive role in many types of cancer. It has been detected that miR-216b is down-regulated in many cancer types, indicating that miR-216b can be used as a prognostic marker for these particular types of cancer. However, the effect of miR-216b on gastric cancer remains unclear. In the present study, miR-216 was observed to be significantly down-regulated in cancer tissues compared to normal tissues, and the level of miR-216b in various gastric cancer cell lines was decreased. In addition, miR-216b overexpression inhibits proliferation, migration, invasion, cell cycle and apoptosis of gastric cancer cells. We further verified that the inhibitory effect of miR-216b on proliferation and invasion of gastric cancer cells is mediated by cyclin T2. Overexpression of cyclin T2 can reverse the anti-cancer effect of miR-216b mimics. The results further enriched the mechanism of miR-216b in the development and progression of gastric cancer.

Small Non-Coding-RNA in Gynecological Malignancies

Gynecologic malignancies, which include cancers of the cervix, ovary, uterus, vulva, vagina, and fallopian tube, are among the leading causes of female mortality worldwide, with the most prevalent being endometrial, ovarian, and cervical cancer. Gynecologic malignancies are complex, heterogeneous diseases, and despite extensive research efforts, the molecular mechanisms underlying their development and pathology remain largely unclear. Currently, mechanistic and therapeutic research in cancer is largely focused on protein targets that are encoded by about 1% of the human genome. Our current understanding of 99% of the genome, which includes noncoding RNA, is limited. The discovery of tens of thousands of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), possessing either structural or regulatory functions, has fundamentally altered our understanding of genetics, physiology, pathophysiology, and disease treatment as they relate to gynecologic malignancies. In recent years, it has become clear that ncRNAs are relatively stable, and can serve as biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and prognosis, as well as guide therapy choices. Here we discuss the role of small non-coding RNAs, i.e., microRNAs (miRs), P-Element induced wimpy testis interacting (PIWI) RNAs (piRNAs), and tRNA-derived small RNAs in gynecological malignancies, specifically focusing on ovarian, endometrial, and cervical cancer.

FOXM1 and Cancer: Faulty Cellular Signaling Derails Homeostasis

Forkhead box transcription factor, FOXM1 is implicated in several cellular processes such as proliferation, cell cycle progression, cell differentiation, DNA damage repair, tissue homeostasis, angiogenesis, apoptosis, and redox signaling. In addition to being a boon for the normal functioning of a cell, FOXM1 turns out to be a bane by manifesting in several disease scenarios including cancer. It has been given an oncogenic status based on several evidences indicating its role in tumor development and progression. FOXM1 is highly expressed in several cancers and has also been implicated in poor prognosis. A comprehensive understanding of various aspects of this molecule has revealed its role in angiogenesis, invasion, migration, self- renewal and drug resistance. In this review, we attempt to understand various mechanisms underlying FOXM1 gene and protein regulation in cancer including the different signaling pathways, post-transcriptional and post-translational modifications. Identifying crucial molecules associated with these processes can aid in the development of potential pharmacological approaches to curb FOXM1 mediated tumorigenesis.

MiR-216b regulates the tumorigenesis of gastric cancer by targeting PXN

BACKGROUND

Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that microRNAs (miRNAs) are associated with tumorigenesis. miR-216b can play a vital role in the genesis and development of gastric cancer (GC), and its molecular mechanisms require further elucidation.

METHODS

The biological effects of miR-216b in GC cells were investigated by MTT, transwell assays, and cell cycle. Western blot and luciferase assay were performed to demonstrate the direct binding of miR-216b on PXN 3'UTR. Furthermore, MTT, colony formation assays, transwell assays, and flow cytometry analysis, as well as xenograft mice model, were used to measure the effects of miR-216b-PXN on GC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion indicated by in vitro and in vivo.

RESULTS

Our results showed that miR-216b acted as a tumor suppressor in GC progression. miR-216b overexpression suppressed GC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro. Luciferase reporter assays identified paxillin (PXN) as a novel target gene of miR-216b. PXN overexpression could partially rescue miR-216b-induced the inhibitory effects in GC cells. Besides, overexpression of miR-216b contributed to the activation of PI3K/AKT signaling via partly regulating PXN in GC cells.

CONCLUSIONS

The above results showed that miR-216b could offer a novel therapeutic avenue by targeting PXN in GC.

Identification and validation of a miRNA-based prognostic signature for cervical cancer through an integrated bioinformatics approach

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide. Increasing evidence has shown that miRNAs are related to the progression of cervical cancer. However, the mechanisms that affect the prognosis of cancer are still largely unknown. In the present study, we sought to identify miRNAs associated with poor prognosis of patient with cervical cancer, as well as the possible mechanisms regulated by them. The miRNA expression profiles and relevant clinical information of patients with cervical cancer were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). The selection of prognostic miRNAs was carried out through an integrated bioinformatics approach. The most effective miRNAs with synergistic and additive effects were selected for validation through in vitro experiments. Three miRNAs (miR-216b-5p, miR-585-5p, and miR-7641) were identified as exhibiting good performance in predicting poor prognosis through additive effects analysis. The functional enrichment analysis suggested that not only pathways traditionally involved in cancer but also immune system pathways might be important in regulating the outcome of the disease. Our findings demonstrated that a synergistic combination of three miRNAs may be associated, through their regulation of specific pathways, with very poor survival rates for patients with cervical cancer.

Thiostrepton and miR-216b synergistically promote osteosarcoma cell cytotoxicity and apoptosis by targeting FoxM1

Osteosarcoma is a common primary bone cancer that there are currently no effective treatment strategies for. Forkhead box M1 (FoxM1) is key in the development of osteosarcoma, and microRNA (miR)-216b serves an antitumor role by targeting FoxM1. Moreover, thiostrepton (TST), a natural thiazole antibiotic, induces antitumor effects and specifically targets FoxM1. Therefore, the present study investigated whether thiostrepton and miR-216b synergistically inhibited osteosarcoma cells by targeting FoxM1. The MTT assay, reverse transcription-quantitative PCR, a dual-luciferase reporter assay and flow cytometry were performed. Compared with the human osteoblast cell line hFOB1.19, miR-216b expression was significantly downregulated in the osteosarcoma cell lines U2OS, MG63 and Saos-2. By contrast, FoxM1 expression was significantly upregulated in osteosarcoma cell lines compared with the hFOB1.19 cell line. The results indicated that miR-216b targeted the 3′-untranslated region of FoxM1. Moreover, the results suggested that miR-216b cooperated with TST to decrease cell cytotoxicity and increase cell apoptosis. In addition, miR-216b cooperated with TST to increase Bax expression and decrease Bcl-2 expression. In conclusion, the combination of TST and miR-216b synergistically promoted osteosarcoma cell cytotoxicity and apoptosis by targeting FoxM1. Therefore, the present study suggested that the combination of TST and miR-216b may serve as a promising therapeutic strategy for osteosarcoma.

Exosomes: Insights from Retinoblastoma and Other Eye Cancers

Exosomes, considered as cell debris or garbage bags, have been later characterized as nanometer-sized extracellular double-membrane lipid bilayer bio-vesicles secreted by the fusion of vesicular bodies with the plasma membrane. The constituents and the rate of exosomes formation differ in different pathophysiological conditions. Exosomes are also observed and studied in different parts of the eye, like the retina, cornea, aqueous, and vitreous humor. Tear fluid consists of exosomes that are shown to regulate various cellular processes. The role of exosomes in eye cancers, especially retinoblastoma (RB), is not well explored, although few studies point towards their presence. Retinoblastoma is an intraocular tumor that constitutes 3% of cases of cancer in children. Diagnosis of RB may require invasive procedures, which might lead to the spread of the disease to other parts. Due to this reason, better ways of diagnosis are being explored. Studies on the exosomes in RB tumors and serum might help designing better diagnostic approaches for RB. In this article, we reviewed studies on exosomes in the eye, with a special emphasis on RB. We also reviewed miRNAs expressed in RB tumor, serum, and cell lines and analyzed the targets of these miRNAs from the proteins identified in the RB tumor exosomes. hsa-miR-494 and hsa-miR-9, upregulated and downregulated, respectively in RB, have the maximum number of targets. Although oppositely regulated, they share the same targets in the proteins identified in RB tumor exosomes. Overall this review provides the up-to-date progress in the area of eye exosome research, with an emphasis on RB.

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in cervical carcinogenesis: New molecular targets, current prospects

Aberrant expression of lncRNAs has been seen as a key factor in a wide range of diseases including cancer. The role of lncRNAs in cervical cancer has not been clearly explained, and has been the subject of recent studies. In this review, we have compiled an updated list of previously reported lncRNAs and established a general profile of these transcripts in accordance with the role they play in cervical carcinogenesis. Thus, information here includes the influence of lncRNAs on cervical tumorigenic process through a disturbance of cellular activities. Additionally, we described recent discoveries about how HPV contributes to lncRNAs expression in cervical cancer and we summarized exploratory studies of strategies adopted to modulate the expression levels of lncRNAs to treat cervical neoplasia, by drawing attention to radio and chemo-resistance. Finally, this paper provides a broad overview that sets out new research directions about the role of lncRNAs in cervical cancer.

Aberrant expression of miR-4728 in patients with non-small cell lung cancer and its regulatory effects on tumor progression in tumor cells

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a common malignant tumor with poor prognosis and an increasing number of cases. MicroRNA (miR)-4728 is related with the progression of various types of cancer, and is dysregulated in NSCLC, which indicates that miR-4728 may serve as a biomarker for NSCLC. The present study aimed to investigate the clinical significance of miR-4728 in NSCLC diagnosis and prognosis, and to explore the biological function of miR-4728 in NSCLC progression. Serum and tissue samples were collected from 122 patients with NSCLC. By conducting reverse transcription-quantitative PCR, the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay and Transwell assays, the expression of miR-4728 and its effect on NSCLC cell proliferation, migration and invasion were investigated. The diagnostic value of miR-4728 was evaluated by plotting a receiver operating characteristic curve, and Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analyses were conducted to assess the prognostic value of miR-4728. miR-4728 was significantly downregulated in NSCLC serum and tissue samples compared with healthy controls, with a relatively high diagnostic accuracy and ability to predict poor overall survival time in patients with NSCLC. By conducting gain- and loss-of-function experiments, the results indicated that miR-4728 knockdown significantly promoted NSCLC cell proliferation, migration and invasion compared with the inhibitor negative control (NC) group. By contrast, miR-4728 overexpression displayed the opposite effect on NSCLC cell proliferation, migration and invasion. The present study indicated that miR-4728 was downregulated in NSCLC and may serve as a candidate diagnostic and prognostic biomarker. NSCLC cell proliferation, migration and invasion were inhibited by miR-4728 overexpression compared with the mimic NC group, which suggested that miR-4728 may serve as a therapeutic target for NSCLC.

Circ-MMP2 (circ-0039411) induced by FOXM1 promotes the proliferation and migration of lung adenocarcinoma cells in vitro and in vivo

Numerous reports have stated the significance of cellular events such as proliferation, migration and EMT (epithelial-mesenchymal transition) for cancer development, but the related molecular mechanism remains elusive. FOXM1 (forkhead box transcription M1) is a nuclear co-activator participating in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Thus, this study tried to explain the function of FOXM1 and its downstream molecular mechanism in LUAD. We uncovered FOXM1 upregulation in LUAD and demonstrated that FOXM1 facilitated β-catenin nuclear translocation to activate the transcription of downstream genes. Moreover, we discovered that FOXM1 transcriptionally activated circ0039411 which derived from matrix metallopeptidase 2 (MMP2) (also named as circ-MMP2), while MMP2 is a known downstream target of β-catenin. As for functional investigation, knockdown of circ-0039411 suppressed the proliferation, migration and EMT in LUAD cells and also hindered in vivo growth and metastasis of LUAD tumor. Mechanistically, circ-0039411 enhanced the stability of FOXM1 mRNA by recruiting IGF2BP3 (insulin like growth factor 2 mRNA binding protein 3), thus forming a positive feedback loop. In conclusion, this study revealed that FOXM1-induced circ-MMP2 (circ-0039411) contributes to malignant behaviors of LUAD cells via relying on FOXM1, potentially infusing inspirations for the search of new molecular targets for LUAD treatment.

Long noncoding RNA SNHG16 promotes the tumorigenicity of cervical cancer cells by recruiting transcriptional factor SPI1 to upregulate PARP9

Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) small nucleolar RNA host gene 16 (SNHG16) has been linked to multiple cancers including breast, ovarian, bladder, and colorectal cancer. However, the role of SNHG16 in cervical cancer is unclear. Here, quantitative analysis of SNHG16 and PARP9 expression levels in cervical cancer tissues and cell lines indicated that both SNHG16 and PARP9 were highly expressed compared with controls. Using the dual-luciferase reporter gene assay, RNA immunoprecipitation, chromatin immunoprecipitation, we were able to determine that SNHG16 recruited SPI1 protein to promote transcription of PARP9 to upregulate its transcription in cervical cancer cells. After ectopic expression and knockdown experiments were conducted, it was observed that silencing SNHG16 inhibited PARP9 expression, proliferation, and invasion of cervical cancer cells, which was rescued by co-transfection of SNHG16 silencing and PARP9 overexpression. Moreover, in vivo experimental results showed that silencing SNHG16 reduced the expression of PARP9 and suppressed tumor growth. These data indicate that SNHG16 recruits SPI1 to upregulate PARP9, which promotes the tumorigenicity of cervical cancer cells. The regulation of their expression might provide a new direction for treating cervical cancer.

Suppression of FOXM1 activities and breast cancer growth in vitro and in vivo by a new class of compounds

The transcription factor FOXM1 is upregulated and overexpressed in aggressive, therapy-resistant forms of hormone receptor-positive and triple negative breast cancers, and is associated with less good patient survival. FOXM1 signaling is also a key driver in many other cancers. Here, we identify a new class of compounds effective in suppressing FOXM1 activity in breast cancers, and displaying good potency for antitumor efficacy. The compounds bind directly to FOXM1 and alter its proteolytic sensitivity, reduce the cellular level of FOXM1 protein by a proteasome- dependent process, and suppress breast cancer cell proliferation and cell cycle progression and increase apoptosis. RNA-seq and gene set enrichment analyses indicate that the compounds decrease expression of FOXM1-regulated genes and suppress gene ontologies under FOXM1 regulation. Several compounds have favorable pharmacokinetic properties and show good tumor suppression in preclinical breast tumor models. These compounds may be suitable for further clinical evaluation in targeting aggressive breast cancers driven by FOXM1.

Identification and performance evaluation of housekeeping genes for microRNA expression normalization by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR using liquid-based cervical cytology samples

Screening for cervical cancer by cytology has been effective in reducing the worldwide incidence and mortality rates of this disease. However, a number of studies have demonstrated that the sensitivity of conventional cervical cytology may be too low for detection of cervical intraepithelial neoplasias (CIN). Therefore, it is important to incorporate more sensitive molecular diagnostic tests that could substantially improve the detection rates and accuracy for identifying CIN lesions. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small non-coding RNAs with the potential to provide robust non-invasive cancer biomarkers for detecting CIN lesions in liquid-based cervical cytology (LBC) samples. At present, there is no consensus on which are the best housekeeping genes for miRNA normalization in LBC. The present study aimed to identify housekeeping genes with consistent and reproducible performance for normalization of reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) expression analysis of miRNA using LBC samples. The present study firstly selected six potential candidate housekeeping genes based on a systematic literature evaluation. Subsequently, the expression levels of microRNAs U6, RNU-44, RNU-47, RNU-48, RNU-49 and hsa-miR-16 were measured in 40 LBC samples using RT-qPCR. The stability of each potential housekeeping gene was assessed using the NormFinder algorithm. The results revealed that U6 and RNU-49 were the most stable genes among all candidates requiring fewer amplification cycles and smaller variation across the sample set. However, RNU-44, RNU-47, RNU-48 and hsa-miR-16 stability exceeded the recommended housekeeping value suitable for normalization. The findings revealed that U6 may be a reliable housekeeping gene for normalization of miRNA RT-qPCR expression analysis using LBC samples.

lncRNA DSCAM-AS1 downregulates miR-216b to promote the migration and invasion of colorectal adenocarcinoma cells

Background

It has been reported that lncRNA DSCAM-AS1 plays an oncogenic role in breast cancer. In the present study we explored the role of DSCAM-AS1 in colorectal adenocarcinoma (CRA).

Methods: Gene expression was analyzed by qPCR and Western blot. Overexpression experiments were performed to analyze gene interactions. Transwell assays were performed to analyze cell invasion and migration. Methylation-specific PCR (MSP) was performed to analyze DNA methylation.

Results

It was observed that DSCAM-AS1 was upregulated in the primary tumor tissues than in paired non-tumor tissues (within 2 cm around tumors) and was further increased with tumor metastasis. miR-216b was downregulated in primary tumor and further downregulated with tumor metastasis. miR-216b was inversely correlated with DSCAM-AS1 in tumor tissues, but not in non-tumor tissues. In cells of CRA cell lines, DSCAM-AS1 overexpression resulted in the downregulation of miR-216b, while miR-216b overexpression did not significantly affect DSCAM-AS1. DSCAM-AS1 overexpression did not significantly affect cancer cell proliferation but promoted cell migration and invasion. miR-216b inhibited cancer cell migration and invasion and significantly reduced the effects of DSCAM-AS1 overexpression. Methylation-specific PCR showed that DSCAM-AS1 overexpression promoted the methylation of miR-216b gene.

Conclusion

DSCAM-AS1 may downregulate miR-216b to promote the migration and invasion of CRA cells.

Sperm-borne miR-216b modulates cell proliferation during early embryo development via K-RAS

Semen fertilizing potential is dependent upon the morphological, functional and molecular attributes of sperm. Sperm microRNAs (miRNAs) were recently shown to hold promise regarding their association with different fertility phenotypes. However, their role in fertility regulation remains to be determined. We postulated that sperm miRNAs might regulate early embryonic development. From this perspective, sperm quality and 380 sperm miRNAs were investigated in frozen–thawed semen from high (HF; 54.3 ± 1.0% pregnancy rate) and low (LF; 41.5 ± 2.3%) fertility bulls. Out of nine miRNAs that showed different levels in sperm cells, miR-216b was present at lower levels in HF sperm cells and zygotes. Among miR-216b target genes (K-RAS, BECN1 and JUN), K-RAS, related to cell proliferation, revealed a higher level in HF two-cell embryos. First cleavage rate, blastocyst cell number and division number were also higher in HF. In addition, by using a model based on polyspermy embryos, we demonstrated an increase in miR-216b levels in zygotes associated with sperm cell entry. Our results shed light on a possible mechanism of paternal contribution involving sperm-borne miR-216b that modulates levels of miR-216b in zygotes and K-RAS in two-cell embryos. This modulation might regulate early development by interfering with the first cleavage and blastocyst quality.

Overexpression of lncRNA TCTN2 protects neurons from apoptosis by enhancing cell autophagy in spinal cord injury

Neuronal apoptosis is the main pathological feature of spinal cord injury (SCI), while autophagy contributes to ameliorating neuronal damage via inhibition of apoptosis. Here, we investigated the role of tectonic family member 2 (TCTN2) long non-coding RNA on apoptosis and autophagy in SCI. TCTN2 was down-regulated in the spinal cord tissues of a rat model of SCI and in oxygen-glucose deprivation-induced hypoxic SY-SH-5Y cells, while microRNA-216b (miR-216b) was up-regulated. Overexpression of TCTN2 reduced neuron apoptosis by inducing autophagy, and TCTN2 was observed to negatively regulate miR-216b. Furthermore, TCTN2 promoted autophagy to repress apoptosis through the miR-216b-Beclin-1 pathway, and overexpression of TCTN2 improved neurological function in the SCI rat model. In summary, our data suggest that TCTN2 enhances autophagy by targeting the miR-216b-Beclin-1 pathway, thereby ameliorating neuronal apoptosis and relieving spinal cord injury.

Diallyl disulfide suppresses FOXM1-mediated proliferation and invasion in osteosarcoma by upregulating miR-134

Diallyl disulfide (DADS), a volatile component of garlic oil, exerts anticancer activity in various types of cancers, while its anticancer effects against osteosarcoma (OS) have not been previously explored. This study aimed to investigate the anticancer potential of DADS in OS and to explore the underlying mechanisms. DADS reduced the cell viability and increased the expression of miR-134 in OS cell lines, and this effect was in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, in vitro functional assays revealed that DADS significantly inhibited the proliferation and invasion of human OS U2OS and MG-63 cells, which was partially reversed by miR-134 inhibitor transfection. DADS exhibited in vivo antitumor activity and upregulated miR-134 expression in xenograft tumors. Downregulation of miR-134 attenuated DADS-induced antitumor capacity. Further bioinformatics prediction analysis revealed that the 3'-untranslated region (3'-UTR) of Forkhead Box M1 (FOXM1) harbored miR-134-binding sites, and overexpression of miR-134 repressed the luciferase activity of the reporting vector containing FOXM1 3'-UTR. Both miR-134 overexpression and DADS inhibited FOXM1 expression in U2OS cells, while enforced expression of FOXM1 suppressed DADS-induced antiproliferation and anti-invasion capacity in U2OS cells. Furthermore, DADS treatment led to significant downregulation of cyclin D1, c-myc, and lymphoid enhancer-binding factor 1 expression, but the remarkably upregulated p21 level in U2OS cells. Collectively, DADS could be a promising anticancer agent for OS, and the underlying mechanisms might be associated with the antiproliferation and anti-invasion properties through upregulating miR-134 expression.

MicroRNAs contribute to ATP-binding cassette transporter- and autophagy-mediated chemoresistance in hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has an elevated mortality rate, largely because of high recurrence and metastasis. Additionally, the main obstacle during treatment of HCC is that patients usually develop resistance to chemotherapy. Cancer drug resistance involves many different mechanisms, including alterations in drug metabolism and processing, impairment of the apoptotic machine, activation of cell survival signaling, decreased drug sensitivity and autophagy, among others. Nowadays, miRNAs are emerging as master regulators of normal physiology- and tumor-related gene expression. In HCC, aberrant expression of many miRNAs leads to chemoresistance. Herein, we particularly analyzed miRNA impact on HCC resistance to drug therapy. Certain miRNAs target ABC (ATP-binding cassette) transporter genes. As most of these miRNAs are downregulated in HCC, transporter levels increase and intracellular drug accumulation decrease, turning cells less sensitive to death. Others miRNAs target autophagy-related gene expression, inhibiting autophagy and acting as tumor suppressors. Nevertheless, due to its downregulation in HCC, these miRNAs do not inhibit autophagy or tumor growth and, resistance is favored. Concluding, modulation of ABC transporter and/or autophagy-related gene expression or function by miRNAs could be determinant for HCC cell survival under chemotherapeutic drug treatment. Undoubtedly, more insights on the biological processes, signaling pathways and/or molecular mechanisms regulated by miRNAs are needed. Anyway, miRNA-based therapy together with conventional chemotherapeutic drugs has a great future in cancer therapy.

microRNAs: New prognostic, diagnostic, and therapeutic biomarkers in cervical cancer

Cervical cancer is as a kind of cancer beginning from the cervix. Given that cervical cancer could be observed in women who infected with papillomavirus, regular oral contraceptives, and multiple pregnancies. Early detection of cervical cancer is one of the most important aspects of the therapy of this malignancy. Despite several efforts, finding and developing new biomarkers for cervical cancer diagnosis are required. Among various prognostic, diagnostic, and therapeutic biomarkers, miRNA have been emerged as powerful biomarkers for detection, treatment, and monitoring of response to therapy in cervical cancer. Here, we summarized various miRNAs as an employable platform for prognostic, diagnostic, and therapeutic biomarkers in the treatment of cervical cancer.

Downregulation of microRNA-216b contributes to glioma cell growth and migration by promoting AEG-1-mediated signaling

Accumulating evidence indicates microRNA-216b (miR-216b) plays an important role in the development and progression of various cancers. However, little is known about the function of miR-216b in gliomas. In this study, we aimed to investigate the expression level and functional significance of miR-216b in gliomas. We found that miR-216b was significantly downregulated in glioma specimens and cell lines. Overexpression of miR-216b suppressed the growth and migration of glioma cells, while miR-216b inhibition showed the opposite effects. Astrocyte elevated gene-1 (AEG-1) was predicted as a potential target gene of miR-216b by bioinformatics analysis. A dual-luciferase reporter assay showed that miR-216b could directly target the 3'-untranslated region of AEG-1. RT-qPCR and western blot analysis showed that miR-216 negatively regulated AEG-1 expression in glioma cells. Correlation analysis revealed an inverse correlation between miR-216b and AEG-1 in clinical glioma specimens. miR-216b also regulated the activation of nuclear factor-κB and Wnt signaling in glioma cells. Moreover, restoration of AEG-1 expression partially reversed the inhibitory effect of miR-216b overexpression on glioma cell growth and migration. Overall, these results revealed a tumor suppressive role of miR-216b in glioma tumorigenesis, and identified AEG-1 as a target gene of miR-216b action. Our study suggests that miR-216b can be potentially targeted for the development of novel therapies for gliomas.

Downregulation of RPN2 induces apoptosis and inhibits migration and invasion in colon carcinoma

The morbidity of colorectal cancer (CRC) increases annualy, which accounts to higher mortality worldwide. Therefore, it is important to study the pathogenesis of colon cancer. Ribophorin II (RPN2), part of the N-oligosaccharyltransferase complex, is highly expressed in CRC. In the present study, we investigated whether RPN2 can regulate apoptosis, migration and invasion by RNA interference in CRC and sought to clarify the molecular mechanism involved. Based on previous research, an abnormal high expression of RPN2 was observed in CRC tissues and cell lines by real-time (RT)-PCR, immunohistochemistry (IHC) and western blot analysis. RPN2 knockdown via small RNA interference (siRNA) strategy attenuated the expression of RPN2 at the mRNA and protein levels in vivo, leading to decreased cell viability and increased cell apoptosis. In addition, RNAi-RPN2 effectively arrested the cell cycle at the G0/G1-phase in SW1116 and SW480 cells. Furthermore, the Transwell assay demonstrated that cell migration and invasion abilities were significantly inhibited after cell transfection with RPN2 interference plasmid. The apoptosis-related protein (caspase-3) expression was increased and the cell cycle-related protein (cyclin D1) expression was decreased in the siRNA-RPN2 group. RT-PCR and western blot analysis results indicated that migration- and invasion-related proteins including E-cadherin, matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-2 and TIMP-2 were markedly regulated by RPN2 siRNA. Phosphorylation levels of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)3 and Janus kinase (JAK)2 were inhibited by RPN2 siRNA. These findings indicated a novel pathway of tumor-promoting activity by RPN2 in CRC, with significant implications for unraveling the tumorigenesis of CRC.

MicroRNA-216b-3p inhibits lung adenocarcinoma cell growth via regulating PDZ binding kinase/T-LAK-cell-originated protein kinase

Numerous studies have reported that microRNA (miR)-216b, as a tumor suppressor, is downregulated in a variety of cancer types. PDZ binding kinase (PBK)/T-LAK-cell-originated protein kinase (TOPK) is highly expressed in various types of human cancer, including lung cancer. The expression of miR-216b-3p and its potential roles in lung adenocarcinoma are still unclear and no research has been conducted into the association between miR-216b-3p and PBK/TOPK. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the expression and role of miR-216b-3p in lung adenocarcinoma and to explore whether PBK/TOPK is involved in the underlying mechanisms of lung adenocarcinoma. The expression of miR-216b-3p in lung adenocarcinoma cell lines was detected. PBK/TOPK protein expression levels were also determined within lung adenocarcinoma cell lines. To investigate the association between miR-216b-3p and PBK/TOPK, TargetScan analysis was performed; PBK was predicted to be a potential target gene of miR-216b-3p, and a dual luciferase reporter assay was applied to confirm this prediction. To investigate the role of miR-216b-3p in lung adenocarcinoma, a lung adenocarcinoma cell line (GLC-82) was transfected with miR-216b-3p mimic or its negative control. An MTT assay was applied to detect cell proliferation, and cell apoptosis was analyzed by flow cytometry. Western blot analysis was performed to determine the protein expression levels of associated proteins. The results of the present study suggested that miR-216b-3p was downregulated in lung adenocarcinoma cell lines and PBK/TOPK was highly expressed in lung adenocarcinoma cells. miR-216b-3p directly targets PBK and negatively regulates its expression. miR-216b-3p overexpression may inhibit GLC-82 cell proliferation and induce cell apoptosis. In addition, miR-216b-3p overexpression may increase p53 and p21 expression, and prevent p38 MAPK activation. These effects on GLC-82 cells caused by miR-216b-3p overexpression may be eliminated by PBK/TOPK overexpression. In conclusion, miR-216b-3p was downregulated in lung adenocarcinoma and may function as a tumor suppressor by inhibiting cell growth via regulating PBK/TOPK expression.