MicroRNA-184 inhibits cell proliferation and invasion, and specifically targets TNFAIP2 in Glioma

From Inflammation to Oncogenesis: Tracing Serum DCLK1 and miRNA Signatures in Chronic Liver Diseases

Chronic liver diseases, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and HCC are often a consequence of persistent inflammation. However, the transition mechanisms from a normal liver to fibrosis, then cirrhosis, and further to HCC are not well understood. This study focused on the role of the tumor stem cell protein doublecortin-like kinase 1 (DCLK1) in the modulation of molecular factors in fibrosis, cirrhosis, or HCC. Serum samples from patients with hepatic fibrosis, cirrhosis, and HCC were analyzed via ELISA or NextGen sequencing and were compared with control samples. Differentially expressed (DE) microRNAs (miRNA) identified from these patient sera were correlated with DCLK1 expression. We observed elevated serum DCLK1 levels in fibrosis, cirrhosis, and HCC patients; however, TGF-β levels were only elevated in fibrosis and cirrhosis. While DE miRNAs were identified for all three disease states, miR-12136 was elevated in fibrosis but was significantly increased further in cirrhosis. Additionally, miR-1246 and miR-184 were upregulated when DCLK1 was high, while miR-206 was downregulated. This work distinguishes DCLK1 and miRNAs' potential role in different axes promoting inflammation to tumor progression and may serve to identify biomarkers for tracking the progression from pre-neoplastic states to HCC in chronic liver disease patients as well as provide targets for treatment.

TNFAIP2 as an emerging therapeutic target in cancer therapy and its underlying mechanisms

TNFα-induced protein 2 (TNFAIP2), upregulated under TNFα stimulation, was initially thought to participate in angiogenesis. Still, more and more studies have found that TNFAIP2 plays multiple roles in various physiological and pathological scenarios. The representative functions of TNFAIP2 include motivating the inflammatory response, promoting angiogenesis, facilitating cell proliferation, adhesion, migration, and inducing tunnel nanotube formation. The expression of TNFAIP2 is abnormal in most cancers and can enhance drug resistance in cancer cells. The increasingly recognized significance of TNFAIP2 has been attracting growing attention in recent years. This review focuses on elucidating the relationship between TNFAIP2 and oncogenesis, as well as the latest research advancements in the pharmacological targeting of TNFAIP2, aiming to guide forthcoming endeavors in developing pharmacological agents targeted at modulating TNFAIP2.

miR-184 represses β-catenin and behaves as a skin tumor suppressor

miR-184-knockout mice display perturbed epidermal stem cell differentiation. However, the potential role of miR-184 in skin pathology is unclear. Here, we report that miR-184 controls epidermal stem cell dynamics and that miR-184 ablation enhances skin carcinogenesis in mice. In agreement, repression of miR-184 in human squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) enhances neoplastic hallmarks of human SCC cells in vitro and tumor development in vivo. Characterization of miR-184-regulatory network, suggests that miR-184 inhibits pro-oncogenic pathways, cell proliferation, and epithelial to mesenchymal transformation. Of note, depletion of miR-184 enhances the levels of β-catenin under homeostasis and following experimental skin carcinogenesis. Finally, the repression of β-catenin by miR-184, inhibits the neoplastic phenotype of SCC cells. Taken together, miR-184 behaves as an epidermal tumor suppressor, and may provide a potentially useful target for skin SCC therapy.

Neuronal Activity Promotes Glioma Progression by Inducing Proneural-to-Mesenchymal Transition in Glioma Stem Cells

Neuronal activity can drive progression of high-grade glioma by mediating mitogen production and neuron-glioma synaptic communications. Glioma stem cells (GSC) also play a significant role in progression, therapy resistance, and recurrence in glioma, which implicates potential cross-talk between neuronal activity and GSC biology. Here, we manipulated neuronal activity using chemogenetics in vitro and in vivo to study how it influences GSCs. Neuronal activity supported glioblastoma (GBM) progression and radioresistance through exosome-induced proneural-to-mesenchymal transition (PMT) of GSCs. Molecularly, neuronal activation led to elevated miR-184-3p in neuron-derived exosomes that were taken up by GSCs and reduced the mRNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) levels by inhibiting RBM15 expression. RBM15 deficiency decreased m6A modification of DLG3 mRNA and subsequently induced GSC PMT by activating the STAT3 pathway. Loss of miR-184-3p in cortical neurons reduced GSC xenograft growth, even when neurons were activated. Levetiracetam, an antiepileptic drug, reduced the neuronal production of miR-184-3p-enriched exosomes, inhibited GSC PMT, and increased radiosensitivity of tumors to prolong survival in xenograft mouse models. Together, these findings indicate that exosomes derived from active neurons promote GBM progression and radioresistance by inducing PMT of GSCs.

SIGNIFICANCE

Active neurons secrete exosomes enriched with miR-184-3p that promote glioblastoma progression and radioresistance by driving the proneural-to-mesenchymal transition in glioma stem cells, which can be reversed by antiseizure medication levetiracetam.

The miR-146b-3p/TNFAIP2 axis regulates cell differentiation in acute myeloid leukaemia

Our purpose is to verify that miR-146b-3p targets the downstream transcript TNFAIP2 in order to reveal the machinery underlying the miR-146b-3p/TNFAIP2 axis regulating acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) differentiation. Bioinformatics analyses were performed using multiple databases and R packages. The CD11b+ and CD14+ cell frequencies were detected using flow cytometry and immunofluorescence staining. The TNFAIP2 protein expression was evaluated using western blotting, immunocytochemistry and immunofluorescence staining. The qRT-PCR was conducted to detect the expression of TNFAIP2 and miR-146b-3p. TNFAIP2 and its correlated genes were enriched in multiple cell differentiation pathways. TNFAIP2 was upregulated upon leukaemic cell differentiation. miR-146b-3p directly targeted TNFAIP2, resulting in a decrease in TNFAIP2 expression. Forced expression of TNFAIP2 or knockdown of miR-146b-3p significantly induced the differentiation of MOLM-13 cells. In this study, we demonstrated that TNFAIP2 is a critical driver in inducing differentiation and that the miR-146b-3p/TNFAIP2 axis involves in regulating cell differentiation in AML.

MiR-184-5p represses neuropathic pain by regulating CCL1/CCR8 signaling interplay in the spinal cord in diabetic mice

BACKGROUND

Diabetic neuropathic pain (DNP) is a serious complication for diabetic patients involving nervous system. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small-noncoding RNAs which are dysregulated in neuropathic pain, and might be critical molecules for pain treatment. Our previous study has shown miR-184-5p was significantly downregulated in DNP. Therefore, the mechanism of miR-184-5p in DNP was investigated in this study.

METHODS

A DNP model was established through streptozotocin (STZ). The pharmacological tools were injected intrathecally, and pain behavior was evaluated by paw withdrawal mechanical thresholds (PWMTs). Bioinformatics analysis, Dual-luciferase reporter assay and fluorescence-in-situ-hybridization (FISH) were used to seek and confirm the potential target genes of miR-184-5p. The expression of relative genes and proteins was analyzed by quantitative reverse transcriptase real-time PCR (qPCR) and western blotting.

RESULTS

MiR-184-5p expression was down-regulated in spinal dorsal on days 7 and 14 after STZ, while intrathecal administration of miR-184-5p agomir attenuates neuropathic pain induced by DNP and intrathecal miR-184-5p antagomir induces pain behaviors in naïve mice. Chemokine CC motif ligand 1 (CCL1) was found to be a potential target of miR-184-5p and the protein expression of CCL1 and the mRNA expression of CCR8 were up-regulated in spinal dorsal on days 7 and 14 after STZ. The luciferase reporter assay and FISH demonstrated that CCL1 is a direct target of miR-184-5p. MiR-184-5p overexpression attenuated the expression of CCL1/CCR8 in DNP; intrathecal miR-184-5p antagomir increased the expression of CCL1/CCR8 in spinal dorsal of naïve mice.

CONCLUSION

This research illustrates that miR-184-5p alleviates DNP through the inhibition of CCL1/CCR8 signaling expression.

microRNA-184 in the landscape of human malignancies: a review to roles and clinical significance

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) with a short length of 19-22 nucleotides. miRNAs are posttranscriptional regulators of gene expression involved in various biological processes like cell growth, apoptosis, and angiogenesis. miR-184 is a well-studied miRNA, for which most studies report its downregulation in cancer cells and tissues and experiments support its role as a tumor suppressor inhibiting malignant biological behaviors of cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. To exert its functions, miR-184 affects some signaling pathways involved in tumorigenesis like Wnt and β-catenin, and AKT/mTORC1 pathway, oncogenic factors (e.g., c-Myc) or apoptotic proteins, such as Bcl-2. Interestingly, clinical investigations have shown miR-184 with good performance as a prognostic/diagnostic biomarker for various cancers. Additionally, exogenous miR-184 in cell and xenograft animal studies suggest it as a therapeutic anticancer target. In this review, we outline the studies that evaluated the roles of miR-184 in tumorigenesis as well as its clinical significance.

Integrin β4 promotes DNA damage-related drug resistance in triple-negative breast cancer via TNFAIP2/IQGAP1/RAC1

Anti-tumor drug resistance is a challenge for human triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) treatment. Our previous work demonstrated that TNFAIP2 activates RAC1 to promote TNBC cell proliferation and migration. However, the mechanism by which TNFAIP2 activates RAC1 is unknown. In this study, we found that TNFAIP2 interacts with IQGAP1 and Integrin β4. Integrin β4 activates RAC1 through TNFAIP2 and IQGAP1 and confers DNA damage-related drug resistance in TNBC. These results indicate that the Integrin β4/TNFAIP2/IQGAP1/RAC1 axis provides potential therapeutic targets to overcome DNA damage-related drug resistance in TNBC.

Deciphering the Action of Neuraminidase in Glioblastoma Models

Glioblastoma (GBM) contains cancer stem cells (CSC) that are resistant to treatment. GBM CSC expresses glycolipids recognized by the A2B5 antibody. A2B5, induced by the enzyme ST8 alpha-N-acetyl-neuraminide alpha-2,8-sialyl transferase 3 (ST8Sia3), plays a crucial role in the proliferation, migration, clonogenicity and tumorigenesis of GBM CSC. Our aim was to characterize the resulting effects of neuraminidase that removes A2B5 in order to target GBM CSC. To this end, we set up a GBM organotypic slice model; quantified A2B5 expression by flow cytometry in U87-MG, U87-ST8Sia3 and GBM CSC lines, treated or not by neuraminidase; performed RNAseq and DNA methylation profiling; and analyzed the ganglioside expression by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry in these cell lines, treated or not with neuraminidase. Results demonstrated that neuraminidase decreased A2B5 expression, tumor size and regrowth after surgical removal in the organotypic slice model but did not induce a distinct transcriptomic or epigenetic signature in GBM CSC lines. RNAseq analysis revealed that OLIG2, CHI3L1, TIMP3, TNFAIP2, and TNFAIP6 transcripts were significantly overexpressed in U87-ST8Sia3 compared to U87-MG. RT-qPCR confirmed these results and demonstrated that neuraminidase decreased gene expression in GBM CSC lines. Moreover, neuraminidase drastically reduced ganglioside expression in GBM CSC lines. Neuraminidase, by its pleiotropic action, is an attractive local treatment against GBM.

Comparison of Oncogenes, Tumor Suppressors, and MicroRNAs Between Schizophrenia and Glioma: The Balance of Power

The risk of cancer in schizophrenia has been controversial. Confounders of the issue are cigarette smoking in schizophrenia, and antiproliferative effects of antipsychotic medications. The author has previously suggested comparison of a specific cancer like glioma to schizophrenia might help determine a more accurate relationship between cancer and schizophrenia. To accomplish this goal, the author performed three comparisons of data; the first a comparison of conventional tumor suppressors and oncogenes between schizophrenia and cancer including glioma. This comparison determined schizophrenia has both tumor-suppressive and tumor-promoting characteristics. A second, larger comparison between brain-expressed microRNAs in schizophrenia with their expression in glioma was then performed. This identified a core carcinogenic group of miRNAs in schizophrenia offset by a larger group of tumor-suppressive miRNAs. This proposed "balance of power" between oncogenes and tumor suppressors could cause neuroinflammation. This was assessed by a third comparison between schizophrenia, glioma and inflammation in asbestos-related lung cancer and mesothelioma (ALRCM). This revealed that schizophrenia shares more oncogenic similarity to ALRCM than glioma.

A highly reusable genosensor for late-life depression diagnosis based on microRNA 184 attomolar detection in human plasma

Late-Life Depression (LLD) is one of the most prevalent psychiatric disorders in elderly, causing significant functional impairments. MicroRNAs are small molecules involved in the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. Elderly individuals diagnosed with LLD present down regulation of miR-184 (hsa-miR-184) expression compared to healthy patients. Therefore, this miR-184 can be used as a biomarker to diagnose LLD. Current LLD diagnosis depends primarily on clinical subjective identification, based on symptoms and variable scales. This work introduces a novel and facile approach for the LLD diagnosis based on the development of an electrochemical genosensor for miR-184 detection in plasma, using differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). DPV results presented a 2-Fold increase in current value for healthy patients, compared to individuals with LLD when monitoring ethidium bromide oxidation peak. For EIS, a 1.5-fold increase in charge transfer resistance for healthy elderly subjects was observed in comparison with depressed patients. In addition, the analytical performance of the biosensor was evaluated using DPV, obtaining a linear response ranging from 10^-9 mol L^-1 to 10^-17 mol L^-1 of miR-184 in plasma and a detection limit of 10 atomoles L^-1. The biosensor presented reusability, selectivity and stability, the current response remained 72% up to 50 days of storage. Thus, the genosensor proved to be efficient in the diagnosis of LLD, as well as the accurate quantification of miR-184 in real plasma samples of healthy and depressed patients.

Pan-cancer analysis of oncogenic TNFAIP2 identifying its prognostic value and immunological function in acute myeloid leukemia

BACKGROUND

Tumor necrosis factor alpha-induced protein 2 (TNFAIP2), a TNFα-inducible gene, appears to participate in inflammation, immune response, hematopoiesis, and carcinogenesis. However, the potential role of TNFAIP2 in the development of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remains unknow yet. Therefore, we aimed to study the biological role of TNFAIP2 in leukemogenesis.

METHODS

TNFAIP2 mRNA level, prognostic value, co-expressed genes, differentially expressed genes, DNA methylation, and functional enrichment analysis in AML patients were explored via multiple public databases, including UALCAN, GTEx portal, Timer 2.0, LinkedOmics, SMART, MethSurv, Metascape, GSEA and String databases. Data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and Beat AML database were used to determine the associations between TNFAIP2 expression and various clinical or genetic parameters of AML patients. Moreover, the biological functions of TNFAIP2 in AML were investigated through in vitro experiments.

RESULTS

By large-scale data mining, our study indicated that TNFAIP2 was differentially expressed across different normal and tumor tissues. TNFAIP2 expression was significantly increased in AML, particularly in French-American-British (FAB) classification M4/M5 patients, compared with corresponding control tissues. Overexpression of TNFAIP2 was an independent poor prognostic factor of overall survival (OS) and was associated with unfavorable cytogenetic risk and gene mutations in AML patients. DNA hypermethylation of TNFAIP2 at gene body linked to upregulation of TNFAIP2 and inferior OS in AML. Functional enrichment analysis indicated immunomodulation function and inflammation response of TNFAIP2 in leukemogenesis. Finally, the suppression of TNFAIP resulted in inhibition of proliferation by altering cell-cycle progression and increase of cell death by promoting early and late apoptosis in THP-1 and U937AML cells.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, the oncogenic TNFAIP2 can function as a novel biomarker and prognostic factor in AML patients. The immunoregulation function of TNFAIP2 warrants further validation in AML.

circCNN2 Accelerates Cell Proliferation and Invasion in Lung Squamous Cell Carcinoma via Regulating miR-184/E2F1 and Activating MAPK Signaling Pathway

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been demonstrated as potential biomarkers for the diagnosis and treatment of human diseases. Previous studies have unveiled the carcinogenic role of circRNA_102399 (circCNN2) in lung cancer. Through the UALCAN database, it was found that CNN2, the parent gene of circCNN2, was specifically highly expressed in human lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) cells, but the regulatory mechanism of circCNN2 in LUSC is unclear. In this study, circCNN2 expression in LUSC cells was examined via RT-qPCR, and its effects on LUSC progression was verified through functional assays. The subcellular localization of circCNN2 was identified via FISH assay, and the underlying mechanism of circCNN2 on the activation of MAPK signaling pathway was determined through mechanism experiments. Results demonstrated that circCNN2 was upregulated in LUSC cells, and it promoted LUSC cell proliferation and invasion. Besides, circCNN2 acted as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to sponge miR-184 to upregulate E2F transcription factor 1 (E2F1) expression. Furthermore, it was verified that circCNN2 activated the generic mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) signaling pathway through E2F1 and thus promoting LUSC progression. In a word, this study indicated that circCNN2 activated MAPK signaling pathway through the miR-184/E2F1 axis to promote proliferation and invasion of LUSC cells.

C1QTNF6 Targeted by MiR-184 Regulates the Proliferation, Migration, and Invasion of Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells

OBJECTIVE

To seek out the mechanism by which C1QTNF6 mediates lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD).

METHODS

Differentially expressed mRNAs and miRNAs in LUAD were analyzed using bioinformatics. In LUAD cells, C1QTNF6 mRNA and miR-184 expression were evaluated with qRT-PCR, and C1QTNF6 protein level was assessed by western blot. Cellular behaviors were assessed by colony formation, CCK-8, Transwell, and wound healing methods. The binding ability of miR-184 to C1QTNF6 was observed by dual-luciferase assay.

RESULTS

High expression of C1QTNF6 in LUAD stimulated cancer cellular behaviors. MiR-184 was lowly expressed in LUAD and downregulated C1QTNF6 expression. MiR-184 restrained LUAD cell processes by targeting C1QTNF6.

CONCLUSION

MiR-184 repressed LUAD cell processes via mediating C1QTNF6. MiR-184 and C1QTNF6 are expected to be indicators for LUAD treatment.

Effect of miR-184 and miR-205 on the tumorigenesis of conjunctival mucosa associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma through regulating RasL10B and TNFAIP8

AIM

To explore the effect of miR-184 and miR-205 on the proliferation and metastasis of conjunctival mucosa associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma.

METHODS

Tissue of tumor and adjacent normal control from 5 patients with conjunctival MALT was included. RPMI8226 cell line was selected to verify the effect of miRNAs in B cells. The function of microRNA on the RPMI8226 cell apoptosis, migration and invasion was evaluated by apoptosis assay and Transwell assay. The mRNA and protein expression were examined by quantitative RT-PCR and Western blotting. The effect of microRNA on regulation of downstream gene expression was evaluated by luciferase report assay.

RESULTS

A decreased level of miR-184 and miR-205 was observed in MALT lymphoma tissue. Exogenous miR-184 and miR-205 analogues promoted apoptosis, and inhibited the survival, migration, and invasion of RPMI8226 cells. miR-184 and miR-205 inhibitor reversed the process. The RNA and protein level of RasL10B and TNFAIP8 were downregulated in MALT lymphoma tissue. The exogenous of miR-184 and miR-205 promoted the expression of RasL10B and TNFAIP8. Meanwhile, inhibition of miR-184 and miR-205 repressed the expression of target gene, RasL10B and TNFAIP8.

CONCLUSION

miR-184 and miR-205 suppresses the tumorigenesis of conjunctival MALT lymphoma through regulating RasL10B and TNFAIP8.

Spectrum of microRNAs and their target genes in cancer: intervention in diagnosis and therapy

Till date, several groups have studied the mechanism of microRNA (miRNA) biogenesis, processing, stability, silencing, and their dysregulation in cancer. The miRNA coding genes recurrently go through abnormal amplification, deletion, transcription, and epigenetic regulation in cancer. Some miRNAs function as tumor promoters while few others are tumor suppressors based on the transcriptional regulation of target genes. A review of miRNAs and their target genes in a wide range of cancers is attempted in this article, which may help in the development of new diagnostic tools and intervention therapies. The contribution of miRNAs for drug sensitivity or resistance in cancer therapy and opportunities of miRNAs in cancer prognosis or diagnosis and therapy is also presented in detail.

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

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

Transcriptome-Wide Association Study of Blood Cell Traits in African Ancestry and Hispanic/Latino Populations

BACKGROUND

Thousands of genetic variants have been associated with hematological traits, though target genes remain unknown at most loci. Moreover, limited analyses have been conducted in African ancestry and Hispanic/Latino populations; hematological trait associated variants more common in these populations have likely been missed.

METHODS

To derive gene expression prediction models, we used ancestry-stratified datasets from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA, including n = 229 African American and n = 381 Hispanic/Latino participants, monocytes) and the Depression Genes and Networks study (DGN, n = 922 European ancestry participants, whole blood). We then performed a transcriptome-wide association study (TWAS) for platelet count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and white blood cell count in African (n = 27,955) and Hispanic/Latino (n = 28,324) ancestry participants.

RESULTS

Our results revealed 24 suggestive signals (p < 1 × 10-4) that were conditionally distinct from known GWAS identified variants and successfully replicated these signals in European ancestry subjects from UK Biobank. We found modestly improved correlation of predicted and measured gene expression in an independent African American cohort (the Genetic Epidemiology Network of Arteriopathy (GENOA) study (n = 802), lymphoblastoid cell lines) using the larger DGN reference panel; however, some genes were well predicted using MESA but not DGN.

CONCLUSIONS

These analyses demonstrate the importance of performing TWAS and other genetic analyses across diverse populations and of balancing sample size and ancestry background matching when selecting a TWAS reference panel.

Mir-184 Contributes to Brain Injury Through Targeting PPAP2B Following Ischemic Stroke in Male Rats

Our previous study revealed that miR-184 expression is significantly altered in the brain following ischemic stroke in rats. However, it is unknown whether this alteration in miR-184 expression contributes to brain injury after ischemic stroke. Here, we aim to address the potential of miR-184 to impact nerve injury following ischemia and reperfusion. Rats received ICV injection of miR-184 adenovirus or empty vector and were subjected to right middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) to establish an ischemic stroke model. We cultured SH-SY5Y cells under oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) and transfected them with miR-184 lentivirus to explore the primary mechanisms. To evaluate miR-184 expression, neurological function deficits, the cerebral infarct volume, cell viability, and apoptosis, qRT-PCR analysis of miR-184 expression, the modified neurological severity score (mNSS) system, TTC staining, the CCK-8 assay, flow cytometry, and dual-luciferase reporter assays were utilized. We found that miR-184 expression was downregulated and that the cerebral infarct volume and mNSSs were increased following ischemic stroke; however, increasing the level of miR-184 alleviated brain damage. Overexpression of miR-184 resulted in increased viability and reduced apoptosis of SH-SY5Y cells following OGD/R in vitro. We identified the phosphatidic acid phosphatase type 2B (PPAP2B) gene as a direct target gene of miR-184. In summary, our results reveal that attenuation of miR-184 levels in ischemic stroke contributes to ischemic injury through targeting PPAP2B mRNA-mediated apoptosis, which may be a promising therapeutic target for ischemic stroke.

Genetic polymorphisms of PGF and TNFAIP2 genes related to cervical cancer risk among Uygur females from China

BACKGROUND

PGF and TNFAIP2 are important angiogenic factors, which were abnormal expression in cervical cancer (CC). However, there is currently no report investigating the relationship of PGF and TNFAIP2 gene polymorphisms to CC risk.

METHODS

We conducted a case-control study of 342 CC patients and 498 cancer-free controls in a Chinese Uygur female population. Three SNPs (PGF rs8019391, PGF rs2268615, and TNFAIP2 rs710100) were selected and genotyped to assess the possible association of PGF and TNFAIP2 polymorphisms with CC susceptibility. Logistic regression analysis adjusted by age was used.

RESULTS

PGF rs2268615 (OR = 1.39, 95% CI = 1.04-1.86, p = 0.024) and TNFAIP2 rs710100 (OR = 1.44, 95% CI =1.07-1.95, p = 0.018) polymorphisms were associated with the increased risk of CC. Moreover, T allele of PGF rs8019391 was highly represented in patients with stage III-IV compared with stage I-II (OR = 2.17, p = 4.58 × 10- 4). MDR analysis revealed a positive interaction between the SNPs.

CONCLUSION

Our data indicated that PGF rs2268615, and TNFAIP2 rs710100 polymorphisms might be risk factors for CC susceptibility, which contributed to the increased risk of CC.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Not applicable.

Downregulation of miR-184 facilitates osseous differentiation in periodontal ligament stem cells by modulating nuclear factor I-C

Background/purpose

PDLSCs (periodontal ligament stem cells), derived from dental tissues, are candidate cells for regeneration of dental tissues. MiRNAs could regulate osteogenic differentiation and the transformation into osteoblasts. This study was conducted to figure out how miR-184 regulates osteoblastic differentiation in PDLSCs.

Materials and methods

PDLSCs were isolated from premolars, and the osteoblastic differentiation was validated via Alizarin red staining and determination of ALP (alkaline phosphatase) activity. Expression of osteogenic specific genes were evaluated by western blot, and the expression pattern of miR-184 was determined by qRT-PCR. Target gene of miR-184 was then verified by dual luciferase reporter assay.

Results

Osteogenic-induced PDLSCs were successfully established with increased mineral deposition, ALP activity and protein expression of RUNX2 (runt-related transcription factor 2), osterix and BSP (bone sialoprotein). MiR-184 was reduced during osteoblastic differentiation of PDLSCs, and over-expression of miR-184 suppressed osteoblastic differentiation, as evidenced by reduction in mineral deposition, ALP activity and protein expression of RUNX2, osterix and BSP. MiR-184 could target NFI-C (nuclear factor I-C), and inhibit NFI-C expression in PDLSCs. NFI-C was enhanced during osteoblastic differentiation of PDLSCs, suggesting negative correlation with miR-184. Forced NFI-C expression promoted osteoblastic differentiation, and counteracted with the suppressive effects of miR-184 on osteoblastic differentiation.

Conclusion

Downregulation of miR-184 facilitates osteoblastic differentiation in PDLSCs by modulating NFI-C, providing novel therapeutic strategy for regeneration of dental tissues.

MicroRNA-585 inhibits human glioma cell proliferation by directly targeting MDM2

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are important regulators for cancer cell proliferation. miR-585 has been shown to inhibit the proliferation of several types of cancer, however, little is known about its role in human glioma cells.

Methods

miR-585 levels in human glioma clinical samples and cell lines were examined by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis. Cell proliferation was measured by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and EdU incorporation assays in vitro. For in vivo investigations, U251 cells were intracranially inoculated in BALB/c nude mice and xenografted tumors were visualized by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Results

miR-585 expression is downregulated in human glioma tissues and cell lines compared with non-cancerous counterparts. Additionally, miR-585 overexpression inhibits and its knockdown promotes human glioma cell proliferation in vitro. Moreover, miR-585 overexpression also inhibits the growth of glioma xenografts in vivo, suggesting that miR-585 may act as a tumor suppressor to inhibit the proliferation of human glioma. Furthermore, miR-585 directly targets and decreases the expression of oncoprotein murine double minute 2 (MDM2). More importantly, the restoration of MDM2 via enforced overexpression markedly rescues miR-585 inhibitory effect on human glioma cell proliferation, thus demonstrating that targeting MDM2 is a critical mechanism by which miR-585 inhibits human glioma cell proliferation.

Conclusions

Our study unveils the anti-proliferative role of miR-585 in human glioma cells, and also implicates its potential application in clinical therapy.

Comprehensive Transcriptomic Analysis and Experimental Validation Identify lncRNA HOXA-AS2/miR-184/COL6A2 as the Critical ceRNA Regulation Involved in Low-Grade Glioma Recurrence

Purpose

The recurrence and metastasis of glioma are closely related to complex regulatory networks among protein-coding genes, lncRNAs and microRNAs. The aim of this study was to investigate core genes, lncRNAs, miRNAs and critical ceRNA regulatory mechanisms, which are involved in lower-grade glioma (LGG) recurrence.

Materials and Methods

We employed multiple datasets from Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) database and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) to perform comprehensive transcriptomic analysis. Further in vitro experiments including cell proliferation assay, luciferase reporter assay, and Western blot were performed to validate our results.

Results

Recurrent LGG and glioblastoma (GBM) showed different transcriptome characteristics with less overlap of differentially expressed protein-coding genes (DEPs), lncRNAs (DELs) and miRNAs (DEMs) compared with primary samples. There were no overlapping gene in ontology (GO) terms related to GBM recurrence in the TCGA and CGGA databases, but there were overlaps associated with LGG recurrence. GO analysis and protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis identified three core genes: TIMP1, COL1A1 and COL6A2. By hierarchical cluster analysis of them, LGGs could be clustered as Low_risk and High_risk group. The High_risk group with high expression of TIMP1, COL1A1, and COL6A2 showed worse prognosis. By coexpression networks analysis, competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network analysis, cell proliferation assay and luciferase reporter assay, we confirmed that lncRNA HOXA-AS2 functioned as a ceRNA for miR-184 to regulate expression of COL6A2, which induced cell proliferation of low-grade glioma.

Conclusion

In this study, we revealed a 3-hub protein-coding gene signature to improve prognostic prediction in LGG, and identified a critical ceRNA regulation involved in LGG recurrence.

MicroRNA-184 is a key molecule responsible for the transforming growth factor-β2 -induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition in human lens epithelial-B3 cells

BACKGROUND

TGF-β2-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an important mechanism for posterior capsule opacity (PCO) in lens epithelial cells (LECs). This study aimed to investigate if MicroRNA-184 (miR-184) plays a role in the TGF-β2-induced EMT in LECs.

METHODS

Human LECs (HLE-B3 cells) were used in this study. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) (qRT-PCR) was performed to analyse miR-184 expressions in HLE-B3 treated with TGF-β2 at different concentrations (0-15 ng/mL) and different time (10 ng/mL, 0-48 hours). After transfection of miR-184 mimics or miR-184 inhibitor, cells were treated with 10 ng/mL TGF-β2 for 24 hours, and the expression levels of miR-184, E-cadherin, vimentin, zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 2 (ZEB2), α-Smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), Collagen 1 and bin3 were determined by qRT-PCR and Western blot, respectively.

RESULTS

TGF-β2 treatment significantly downregulated E-cadherin and upregulated vimentin generally in a dose-dependent and time-dependent manner. TGF-β2 treatment significantly elevated the level of miR-184 in both dose- and time-dependent manners. In addition, transfection of miR-184 inhibitor RNA significantly attenuated TGF-β2-induced downregulation of E-cadherin as well as upregulation of vimentin, ZEB2, α-SMA and Collagen 1, whereas transfection of miR-184 mimic further enhanced the effects of TGF-β2 on the expressions of these markers. Furthermore, TGF-β2 treatment significantly downregulated bin3, and transfection of miR-184 mimic and miR-184 inhibitor significantly enhanced and attenuated the inhibition effect of TGF-β2 on bin3, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

miR-184 plays a key role in the TGF-β2-induced EMT in LECs, and bin3 may be a downstream protein.

Aberrant Expression of miR-103, miR-184, miR-378, miR-497 and miR-506 in Tumor Tissue from Patients with Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Regulates the Clinical Picture of the Patients

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the expression patterns of miR-103, miR-184, miR-378, miR497 and in squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the tongue and to be compared with normal peripheral tissues.

METHODS

Tumor and marginal tissues were obtained from 50 patients with OSCC. After RNA extraction, expression level of miR-103, miR-184, miR-378, miR497, and miR506 was estimated using SYBR green master mix and real-time quantitative PCR.

RESULTS

It was observed that, there was no detectable difference in expression level of miR-103 between tumoral and marginal tissues. However, expression level of miR-184, and miR-378 showed significant increase in tumor tissue samples compared to marginal tissue samples. MiR-497 and miR-506 demonstrated considerable decrease in tumoral cells in comparison with peripheral tissues. Moreover, the expression level of miRNAs was associated with clinicopathological features of the patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data indicated that miR-184, miR-378, miR-497, and miR-506 can be used as a potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in OSCC. Nevertheless, more studies are needed to confirm this claim.
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Long non-coding RNA NCK1-AS1 promotes the tumorigenesis of glioma through sponging microRNA-138-2-3p and activating the TRIM24/Wnt/β-catenin axis

BACKGROUND

Glioma is a common brain malignancy with high mortality. The competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks may play key roles in cancer progression. This study was conducted to probe the role of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) NCK1-AS1 in glioma progression and the involved mechanisms.

METHODS

Microarray analyses were performed to explore the lncRNAs/miRNAs/genes with differential expression in glioma. NCK1-AS1 levels in glioma tissues and normal brain tissues, and in glioma cell lines and normal human glial cells were identified. The interactions among NCK1-AS1, miR-138-2-3p and TRIM24 were validated through luciferase reporter, RNA immunoprecipitation and RNA pull-down assays. Gain- and loss-of functions of NCK1-AS1, miR-138-2-3p and TRIM24 were performed to identify their roles in the behaviors of glioma cells. The activity of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway was measured. In vivo experiments were performed as well.

RESULTS

High expression of NCK1-AS1 was found in glioma tissues and cells, especially in U251 cells. Online predictions and the integrated experiments identified that NCK1-AS1 elevated the TRIM24 expression through sponging miR-138-2-3p, and further activated the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Artificial silencing of NCK1-AS1 or up-regulation of miR-138-2-3p led to inhibited proliferation, invasion and migration but promoted cell apoptosis of U251 cells, while up-regulation of TRIM24 reversed these changes, and it activated the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. The in vitro results were reproduced in in vivo experiments.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggested that NCK1-AS1 might elevate TRIM24 expression and further activate the Wnt/β-catenin pathway via acting as a ceRNA for miR-138-2-3p. Silencing of NCK1-AS1 might inhibit the progression of glioma.

Targeted delivery of miRNA based therapeuticals in the clinical management of Glioblastoma Multiforme

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most aggressive (WHO grade IV) form of diffuse glioma endowed with tremendous invasive capacity. The availability of narrow therapeutic choices for GBM management adds to the irony, even the post-treatment median survival time is roughly around 14-16 months. Gene mutations seem to be cardinal to GBM formation, owing to involvement of amplified and mutated receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK)-encoding genes, leading to dysregulation of growth factor signaling pathways. Of-late, the role of different microRNAs (miRNAs) in progression and proliferation of GBM was realized, which lead to their burgeon potential applications for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. miRNA signatures are intricately linked with onset and progression of GBM. Although, progression of GBM causes significant changes in the BBB to form BBTB, but still efficient passage of cancer therapeutics, including antibodies and miRNAs are prevented, leading to low bioavailability. Recent developments in the nanomedicine field provide novel approaches to manage GBM via efficient and brain targeted delivery of miRNAs either alone or as part of cytotoxic pharmaceutical composition, thereby modulating cell signaling in well predicted manner to promise positive therapeutic outcomes.

PBMC gene expression profiles of female Bangladeshi adults chronically exposed to arsenic-contaminated drinking water

Arsenic, a class I human carcinogen, is ubiquitously found throughout the environment and around the globe, posing a great public health concern. Notably, Bangladesh and regions of West Bengal have been found to have high levels (0.5-4600 μg/L) of arsenic drinking water contamination, and approximately 50 million of the world's 200 million people chronically exposed to arsenic in Bangladesh alone. This study was carried out to examine genome-wide gene expression changes in individuals chronically exposed to arsenic-contaminated drinking water. Our study population includes twenty-nine Bangladeshi female participants with urinary arsenic levels ranging from 22.32 to 1828.12 μg/g creatinine. RNA extracted from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were evaluated using RNA-Sequencing analysis. Our results indicate that a total of 1,054 genes were significantly associated with increasing urinary arsenic levels (FDR p < 0.05), which include 418 down-regulated and 636 up-regulated genes. Further Ingenuity Pathway Analysis revealed potential target genes (DAPK1, EGR2, APP), microRNAs (miR-155, -338, -210) and pathways (NOTCH signaling pathway) related to arsenic carcinogenesis. The selection of female-only participants provides a homogenous study population since arsenic has significant sex dependent effects, and the wide exposure range provides new insight for key gene expression changes that correlate with increasing urinary arsenic levels.

Regulation of microRNAs by rape bee pollen on benign prostate hyperplasia in rats

The miRNAs are dysregulated in BPH. Rape bee pollen (RBP) is used to improve benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Whether RBP treats BPH by regulating the dysregulated miRNAs remains unclear. Here, we identified miRNAs regulated along with the improvement of BPH by RBP in posterior lobes of prostate in rats. Firstly, to screened miRNAs might relate to improvement of BPH by RBP, we compared differentially expressed miRNAs between BPH model group and RBP group by high-throughput sequencing. As a result, 10 known miRNAs and 17 novel miRNA were up-regulated in RBP group, and 6 known and 13 novel miRNAs were down-regulated. Secondly, among the known miRNAs, we identified those that might relate to BPH by RT-qPCR, while only rno-miR-184 was screened, so we compared it among normal control group, BPH model group and RBP group. The results showed that rno-miR-184 was significantly lower expressed in BPH group, but up-regulated along with the improvement of BPH by RBP. Moreover, expression level of rno-miR-184 was no difference between RBP group and normal control level. Therefore, we considered that RBP might improve BPH through regulating expression of miRNAs like rno-miR-184 in prostate in rats.

Macrophages enhance 3D invasion in a breast cancer cell line by induction of tumor cell tunneling nanotubes

Background

Metastasis is the cause of most cancer-related deaths. It is known that breast cancer cells in proximity to macrophages become more invasive in an Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) dependent manner. Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are thin, F-actin containing, cellular protrusions that mediate intercellular communication and have been identified in many tumors. The mechanism of TNT formation varies between different cell types. M-Sec (TNFAIP2) has been demonstrated to be involved in TNT formation in some cell types including macrophages. Yet, the requirement of M-Sec in tumor cell TNT formation in response to macrophages has not been explored.

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine whether EGF was required for macrophage induced tumor cell TNTs in an M-Sec dependent manner and what possible roles tumor cell TNTs play in tumor cell migration and invasion.

Methods and Results

Macrophage Conditioned Media (CM) was used to induce an increase in TNTs in a number of breast cancer cell lines as measured by live cell microscopy. Tumor cell TNT formation by CM was dependent on the presence of EGF which was sufficient to induce TNT formation. CM treatment enhanced the level of M-Sec identified using western blot analysis. Reduction of endogenous M-Sec levels via shRNA in MTLn3 mammary adenocarcinoma cells inhibited the formation of TNTs. The role of tumor cell TNTs in cell behavior was tested using in vitro transwell and 3D invasion assays. No effect on chemotaxis was detected but 3D invasion was reduced following the knockdown of M-Sec in tumor cell TNTs.

Conclusions

Our results show that EGF was necessary and sufficient for tumor cell TNT formation which was dependent on cellular M-Sec levels. While tumor cell TNTs may not play a role in individual cell behaviors like chemotaxis, they may be important in more complex tumor cell behaviors such as 3D invasion.

Integrative analysis of miRNA and mRNA expression profiles reveals a novel mRNA/miRNA signature to improve risk classification for patients with gastric cancer

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common types of malignant cancer and is associated with poor prognosis. Although the prognosis of patients with GC is associated with grade, stage and lymph node metastases, these traditional clinical features are inadequate to predict the outcome of GC. Therefore, there has been an increased focus on identifying novel molecular biomarkers for early diagnosis and prognosis, in order to improve outcomes in GC. In the present study, an integrative analysis of microRNA (miRNA) expression profiles, mRNA expression profiles and clinical characteristics was performed in a large cohort of patients with GC in order to identify an integrative prognostic model for improving postoperative risk classification. An integrative mRNA/miRNA signature (IMMIS), comprised of three miRNAs and one mRNA, was identified from a large number of differentially expressed miRNAs and mRNAs using univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis. The prognostic value of the IMMIS was validated in the discovery cohort, testing cohort and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) cohort. The present results suggested that the identified signature had a reliable predictive performance and could classify the patients into high- and low-risk groups with significantly different overall survival times. In the discovery cohort, the hazard ratio (HR) was 2.805 with a 95% CI=1.722–4.567 (P<0.001). The median overall survival time as 1.49 vs. 3.85 years. In the testing cohort, the HR was 1.625 with a 95% CI=1.004–2.638 (P=0.039) and the median overall survival time was 2.17 vs. 4.62 years. In the TCGA cohort, the HR was 2.139 with a 95% CI=1.519–3.012 (P<0.001) and the median overall survival time was 1.53 vs. 4.62 years. The IMMIS constituted a reliable independent prognostic factor compared with clinical covariates, including age, sex, grade and stage, as indicated by multivariate and stratified analyses. Furthermore, comparative analysis revealed that the predictive value of the IMMIS was superior to the mRNA-based signature alone. The present results suggested the potential value of the IMMIS as a promising novel biomarker for improving the clinical management of patients with GC.

MicroRNA based theranostics for brain cancer: basic principles

BACKGROUND

Because of the complexity of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), brain tumors, especially the most common and aggressive primary malignant tumor type arising from the central nervous system (CNS), glioblastoma, remain an essential challenge regarding diagnostic and treatment. There are no approved circulating diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers, nor novel therapies like immune checkpoint inhibitors for glioblastoma, and chemotherapy brings only minimal survival benefits. The development of molecular biology led to the discovery of new potential diagnostic tools and therapeutic targets, offering the premise to detect patients at earlier stages and overcome the current poor prognosis.

MAIN BODY

One potential diagnostic and therapeutic breakthrough might come from microRNAs (miRNAs). It is well-known that miRNAs play a role in the initiation and development of various types of cancer, including glioblastoma. The review aims to answer the following questions concerning the role of RNA theranostics for brain tumors: (1) which miRNAs are the best candidates to become early diagnostic and prognostic circulating biomarkers?; (2) how to deliver the therapeutic agents in the CNS to overcome the BBB?; (3) which are the best methods to restore/inhibit miRNAs?

CONCLUSIONS

Because of the proven roles played by miRNAs in gliomagenesis and of their capacity to pass from the CNS tissue into the blood or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), we propose miRNAs as ideal diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. Moreover, recent advances in direct miRNA restoration (miRNA mimics) and miRNA inhibition therapy (antisense oligonucleotides, antagomirs, locked nucleic acid anti-miRNA, small molecule miRNA inhibitors) make miRNAs perfect candidates for entering clinical trials for glioblastoma treatment.

The chaperone ERp29 is required for tunneling nanotube formation by stabilizing MSec

Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are membrane conduits that mediate long-distance intercellular cross-talk in several organisms and play vital roles during development, pathogenic transmission, and cancer metastasis. However, the molecular mechanisms of TNT formation and function remain poorly understood. The protein MSec (also known as TNFα-induced protein 2 (TNFAIP2) and B94) is essential for TNT formation in multiple cell types. Here, using affinity protein purification, mass spectrometric identification, and confocal immunofluorescence microscopy assays, we found that MSec interacts with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) chaperone ERp29. siRNA-mediated ERp29 depletion in mammalian cells significantly reduces TNT formation, whereas its overexpression induces TNT formation, but in a strictly MSec-dependent manner. ERp29 stabilized MSec protein levels, but not its mRNA levels, and the chaperone activity of ERp29 was required for maintaining MSec protein stability. Subcellular ER fractionation and subsequent limited proteolytic treatment suggested that MSec is associated with the outer surface of the ER. The ERp29-MSec interaction appeared to require the presence of other bridging protein(s), perhaps triggered by post-translational modification of ERp29. Our study implicates MSec as a target of ERp29 and reveals an indispensable role for the ER in TNT formation, suggesting new modalities for regulating TNT numbers in cells and tissues.

Decreased expression of miR-184 restrains the growth and invasion of endometrial carcinoma cells through CDC25A-dependent Notch signaling pathway

Endometrial carcinoma (EC) is one of the most common malignancies of female reproductive tract in developed countries. MicroRNA is frequently dysregulated in human cancers and acts a key regulator role in tumor cell growth and metastasis. The aims of this study were to investigate the roles of microRNA-184 (miR-184) in EC cells and to identify its potential molecular mechanism. Here, the data revealed that miR-184 was significantly downregulated in human EC tissue compared with normal endometrial tissue, and the level of miR-184 expression was associated with lymph node metastasis and prognosis in patients with EC. In vitro assays, overexpression of miR-184 could suppress the proliferation and invasion of HEC-1B and RL95-2 cells. Moreover, bioinformatics analysis showed that cell division cycle 25A (CDC25A) was a putative target gene of miR-184. Dual luciferase reporter assay confirmed that miR-184 significantly downregulated CDC25A expression via directly interaction with the putative binding site in the 3'-untranslated region (3'-UTR) of CDC25A mRNA. Interestingly, knockdown of CDC25A resulted in inhibition of HEC-1B and RL95-2 cells growth and invasion. Mechanistic investigation revealed that downregulation of the Notch receptors (NOTCH1, NOTCH2, NOTCH3 and NOTCH4) and target gene HES1 by miR-184 could be reversed by CDC25A overexpression. In summary, our data demonstrate that CDC25A is a target gene of miR-184 in EC cells, and decreased expression of miR-184 suppresses the growth and invasion of EC cells via CDC25A-dependent Notch signaling pathway, suggesting that miR-184 may be a promising target for a new therapeutic strategy against EC.

MiR-184 Retarded the Proliferation, Invasiveness and Migration of Glioblastoma Cells by Repressing Stanniocalcin-2

To investigate the repression of miR-184 on Stanniocalcin-2 (STC2) and how this axis affects the propagation, invasiveness and migration ability of glioblastoma cells. RT-PCR was employed to determine the miR-184 and STC2 mRNA expression both in tissues and cells. Western blot was employed to determine the protein expression levels. The cells were transfected via lipofection. MTT, colony formation, invasion and scratch healing assays were conducted to study the propagation, invasiveness and migratory ability of glioblastoma cells, respectively. The dual luciferase reporter gene assay was conducted to determine whether miR-184 could directly bind to STC2 mRNA 3'UTR. MiR-184 was under-expressed whereas STC2 was over-expressed in glioblastoma tissues and cell line. The up-regulation of miR-184 significantly suppressed the propagation, migratory ability and invasion of glioblastoma cells, whereas the over-expression of STC2 restored this effect. MiR-184 was confirmed to directly target STC2. MiR-184 could retard the propagation, invasiveness and migratory ability of glioblastoma cells by suppressing STC2.

The roles of TNFAIP2 in cancers and infectious diseases

TNFα‐induced protein 2 (TNFAIP2) is a primary response gene of TNFα. TNFAIP2 is highly expressed in immune cells and the urinary bladder. The expression of TNFAIP2 is regulated by multiple transcription factors and signalling pathways, including NF‐κB, KLF5 and retinoic acid. Physiologically, TNFAIP2 appears to be a multiple functional mediator not only for inflammation, angiogenesis and tunneling nanotube (TNT) formation but also as a regulator of cell proliferation and migration. The expression of TNFAIP2 is frequently abnormal in human cancers and in infectious diseases. Due to its significant functions in cell proliferation, angiogenesis, migration and invasion, TNFAIP2 could be a potential diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target for cancer.

Identification of micro-RNA expression profile related to recurrence in women with ESMO low-risk endometrial cancer

Background

Actual European pathological classification of early-stage endometrial cancer (EC) may show insufficient accuracy to precisely stratify recurrence risk, leading to potential over or under treatment. Micro-RNAs are post-transcriptional regulators involved in carcinogenic mechanisms, with some micro-RNA patterns of expression associated with EC characteristics and prognosis. We previously demonstrated that downregulation of micro-RNA-184 was associated with lymph node involvement in low-risk EC (LREC). The aim of this study was to evaluate whether micro-RNA signature in tumor tissues from LREC women can be correlated with the occurrence of recurrences.

Methods

MicroRNA expression was assessed by chip analysis and qRT-PCR in 7 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) LREC primary tumors from women whose follow up showed recurrences (R+) and in 14 FFPE LREC primary tumors from women whose follow up did not show any recurrence (R−), matched for grade and age. Various statistical analyses, including enrichment analysis and a minimum p-value approach, were performed.

Results

The expression levels of micro-RNAs-184, -497-5p, and -196b-3p were significantly lower in R+ compared to R− women. Women with a micro-RNA-184 fold change < 0.083 were more likely to show recurrence (n = 6; 66%) compared to those with a micro-RNA-184 fold change > 0.083 (n = 1; 8%), p = 0.016. Women with a micro-RNA-196 fold change < 0.56 were more likely to show recurrence (n = 5; 100%) compared to those with a micro-RNA-196 fold change > 0.56 (n = 2; 13%), p = 0.001.

Conclusions

These findings confirm the great interest of micro-RNA-184 as a prognostic tool to improve the management of LREC women.

Long Noncoding RNA H19 Promotes Proliferation and Invasion in Human Glioma Cells by Downregulating miR-152

miR-152 and lncRNA H19 have been frequently implicated in various cellular processes including cell proliferation, invasion, angiogenesis, and apoptosis. However, the interaction between miR-152 and H19 in glioma has never been reported. RT-qPCR was used to examine the expression of miR-152 and H19 in human glioma cell lines and normal human astrocytes (NHAs). The interaction between miR-152 and lncRNA H19 was assessed by dual-luciferase reporter assay. MTT assay and Transwell invasion assay were used to determine the proliferation and invasion of U251 and U87 cells. A xenograft tumor experiment was performed to confirm the role of H19 in vivo. The results showed that H19 expression was upregulated and miR-152 expression was downregulated in human glioma cell lines. H19 downregulation or miR-152 upregulation suppressed glioma cell proliferation and invasion in vitro. Moreover, H19 and miR-152 directly regulated each other. Furthermore, decreased miR-152 expression alleviated si-H19-induced inhibitory effects on proliferation and invasion in glioma cells. As expected, H19 silencing hindered glioma growth in vivo. Taken together, H19 promoted glioma cell proliferation and invasion by negatively regulating miR-152 expression, providing evidence for the potential application of H19 as a biomarker and therapy target for glioma.

Reduction of microRNA-184 by E6 oncoprotein confers cisplatin resistance in lung cancer via increasing Bcl-2

MicroRNA-184 suppresses cell growth and survival via targeting c-Myc and Bcl- 2. We recently reported that miR-184 promotes tumor progression in non-small cell lung cancer via targeting CDC25A and c-Myc. We here hypothesized that miR-184 could be down-regulated by E6 oncoprotein to confer cisplatin resistance in NSCLC. Human papillomavirus (HPV) 16-positive lung cancer TL-1 and cervical cancer SiHa cells compared with HPV16-negative TL-10 and C33A cells were enrolled for E6 manipulation. MiR-184 expression levels were increased by E6-knockdown in TL-1 and SiHa cells, but decreased by E6-overexpression in TL-10 and C33A cells. The MTT assay showed that the inhibition concentration of cisplatin yielding for 50% cell viability was dependent on miR-184 levels. Bcl-2 de-targeted by E6-mediated miR- 184 reduction was responsible for cisplatin resistance. Luciferase reporter assay and real- time PCR analysis indicated that the miR-184 promoter activity and its expression were modulated by E6 and/or p53 manipulation. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay confirmed that p53 was bound onto the miR-184 promoter and its binding activity was modulated by E6 and/or p53 manipulation. Among patients, high miR184 and high Bcl-2 mRNA expression was more commonly occurred in E6- positive tumors than in E6-negative tumors. Fifty-nine out of 136 patients receiving cisplatin-based chemotherapy were available for the retrospective study. Patients with low-mR-184, E6-positive, high-Bcl-2 tumors, and both combinations were more prevalently occurred unfavorable response to cisplatin-based chemotherapy than their counterparts. In conclusion, a decrease in miR-184 level by E6 oncoprotein may predict unfavorable response to cisplatin-based chemotherapy in HPV-infected NSCLC patients via increasing Bcl-2 expression.

Regulation of human glioma cell apoptosis and invasion by miR-152-3p through targeting DNMT1 and regulating NF2 : MiR-152-3p regulate glioma cell apoptosis and invasion

Background

MiRNAs are involved in aberrant DNA methylation through regulation of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) in the pathogenesis and progression of glioblastomas (GBM). MiR-152-3p was down-expressed in human malignancies, and served as a tumor suppressor. Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) was significantly decreased in GBM tissues with a high level of methylation. However, the link between miR-152-3p, DNMT1 and methylation of NF2 in GBM is not clearly established. This study was conducted to detect the mechanism between miR-152-3p, DNMT1 and NF2 in GBM.

Methods

The levels of DNMT1 and NF2 expression were studied by qRT-PCR, Western blot, immunofluorescence, and immumohistochemical staining. Methylation in the promoter region of NF2 was detected by methylation-specific PCR and bisulfate genomic sequencing PCR. Cell proliferation was examined by Cell-Counting Kit-8 and 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine assay, and cell invasion was evaluated by transwell assay. Flow cytomery and Hoechst staining were used to analyze cell apoptosis. A dual luciferase system was used to confirm the relationship between miR-152-3p and DNMT1.

Results

Methylation of NF2 and DNMT1 was markedly increased, and miR-152-3p was downregulated in GBM tissues and glioma cells. Both knockdown of DNMT1 and overexpression miR-152-3p showed that demethylation activated the expression of NF2. Furthermore, miR-152-3p directly targeted DNMT1. Both miR-152-3p overexpression and DNMT1 knockdown significantly induced cell apoptosis and inhibited invasive activity. This was also observed after NF2 overexpression.

Conclusions

These results indicated that miR-152-3p can inhibit glioma cell proliferation and invasion activities by decreasing DNMT1. The restoration of miR-152-3p may have therapeutic application in the treatment of GBM.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13046-017-0567-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

MicroRNA profiling of ovarian granulosa cell tumours reveals novel diagnostic and prognostic markers

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to explore the clinical utility of microRNAs (miRNAs) as improved markers of ovarian granulosa cell tumours (GCTs) for cancer diagnosis and prognosis prediction. Current histopathological and genetic markers, such as the presence of a FOXL2 gene mutation to distinguish between the two major subtypes are not wholly accurate and as such novel biomarkers are warranted.

METHODS

The miRNA expression profiles of five formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) adult-GCTs and five juvenile-GCTs were assessed using Affymetrix miRNA 3.0 Arrays and compared for differential expression. Ten miRNAs were assessed in an additional 33 FFPE tumours and four normal granulosa cell samples by quantitative RT-PCR, and their expression correlated to clinical information.

RESULTS

MicroRNA array found 37 miRNAs as differentially expressed between the two GCT subtypes (p < 0.05, fold change ≥2 and among these, miRs -138-5p, -184, -204-5p, -29c-3p, -328-3p and -501-3p were validated by RT-qPCR as differentially expressed between the two GCT subtypes (p < 0.05). In addition, the expression of miR-184 was predictive of tumour recurrence in adult-GCTs, specifically for patients diagnosed with stage I and II and stage I only disease (p < 0.001 and p < 0.05, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

This study is the first to report on global miRNA expression profiles of human ovarian GCTs using FFPE tumour samples. We have validated six miRNAs as novel markers for subtype classification in GCTs with low levels of miR-138-5p correlating with early tumour stage. Low miR-184 abundance was correlated with tumour recurrence in early stage adult-GCT patients as a candidate predictive biomarker. Further studies are now needed to confirm the clinical utility of these miRNAs as diagnostic and recurrence markers, and understand their possible roles in the pathogenesis of GCTs.

MicroRNA-184 inhibits cell proliferation and metastasis in human colorectal cancer by directly targeting IGF-1R

Colorectal cancer is currently the third most common cancer in males and the second in females worldwide. In spite of marked progress having been achieved in surgical resection, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, the prognosis for patients with colorectal cancer remains poor. Previous studies have demonstrated that the abnormal expression of microRNAs contributed to human cancer carcinogenesis and progression, suggesting miRNAs as novel therapeutic targets in colorectal cancer. The aim of the present study was to investigate the expression, functions and underlying molecular mechanisms of microRNA-184 (miR-184) in colorectal cancer. The results identified that miR-184 was significantly downregulated in colorectal cancer tissues and cell lines. In vitro functional studies demonstrated that miR-184 significantly inhibited colorectal cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Notably, insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R) was identified as a direct target of miR-184 in colorectal cancer. Furthermore, the functions of IGF-1R small interfering RNA were similar to those induced by miR-184 in colorectal cancer, suggesting IGF-1R as a functional target of miR-184 in colorectal cancer. The results of the present study indicated that miR-184 may be a novel therapeutic strategy regimen of targeted therapy for colorectal cancer.

miR-330-5p suppresses glioblastoma cell proliferation and invasiveness through targeting ITGA5

The present study intended to investigate the biological effects of miR-330-5p on glioblastoma (GBM) cell proliferation and invasiveness by targeting integrin α5 (ITGA5). The expressions of miR-330-5p and ITGA5 mRNA in GBM cell lines (U87, U251, and U373) and normal brain glial cell line (HEB) were detected using RT-qPCR. Protein expression of ITGA5 was examined using Western blot. The present study used MTT assay, colony formation assay, Transwell assay, wound healing assay, and flow cytometry analysis in order to determine the biological functions of GBM cells (including cell proliferation, invasion, migration, apoptosis, and cell cycle). The present study applied dual-luciferase reporter gene assay to identify the target relationship between miR-330-5p and ITGA5. miR-330-5p was low-expressed in GBM cell lines while ITGA5 was high-expressed compared with HEB. miR-330-5p could directly target ITGA5 as well as suppress its expression in GBM cells. Up-regulation of miR-330-5p and down-regulation of ITGA5 both have an inhibitory effect on cell proliferation, invasion, and migration. Meanwhile, they could also promote GBM cell apoptosis. miR-330-5p could suppress proliferation and invasion of GBM cells through targeting ITGA5.

MicroRNA-140-5p inhibits cell proliferation and invasion by regulating VEGFA/MMP2 signaling in glioma

Glioma is the most common primary malignant tumor of the central nervous system, which results in both a poor prognosis and outcome because of the aggressive progression of disease, growth and resistance to surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. MiR-140-5p is a small, non-coding single-stranded RNA molecule, which was previously studied in the settings of human tongue cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, and colorectal cancer. However, detailed data that formally demonstrate the contribution of miR-140-5p to glioma development are missing. Similarly, relatively little is known about the relationship of miR-140-5p, vascular endothelial growth factor A, and matrix metalloproteinase-2 in glioma progression. In this study, we found that miR-140-5p expression was significantly decreased in glioma tissues and in the glioma cell-lines U87 and U251 as compared with non-cancerous brain tissues by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. In addition, miR-140-5p inhibited glioma cell proliferation and invasion and promoted glioma cell apoptosis both in vivo and in vitro. Interestingly, while the expression levels of miR-140-5p were higher in glioma cells, the messenger RNA or protein expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor A and matrix metalloproteinase-2 were lower in glioma cells as determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, western blot assay, and immunohistochemistry. By contrast, downregulation in the expression levels of miR-140-5p augmented the messenger RNA and protein expression levels of both vascular endothelial growth factor A and matrix metalloproteinase-2. These findings suggested that miR-140-5p inhibited glioma proliferation and invasion by regulating the vascular endothelial growth factor A/matrix metalloproteinase-2 signaling pathway both in vitro and in vivo.

miR-543 functions as a tumor suppressor in glioma in vitro and in vivo

Gliomas are the most common primary central nervous system tumors and account for approximately 80% of malignant brain tumors. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small non-coding, regulatory RNA molecules that mediate the expression levels of specific proteins. As a member of the miRNA family, miR-543 plays a tumor suppressive or an oncogenic role in different types of tumors. However, the expression and role of miR-543 in glioma remain unknown. In the present study, the expression level of miR-543 in glioma cell lines and tissues was investigated. A series of in vitro and in vivo experiments was then performed to elucidate the function of miR-543 in glioma. Moreover, proteomic profiling was applied in this study to determine the landscape of differentially expressed proteins associated with miR-543-mediated carcinogenesis in glioma. We found that the expression level of miR-543 was greatly downregulated in glioma cell lines and tissues. Furthermore, the expression level of miR-543 was negatively associated with high-grade glioma. Functional studies demonstrated that miR-543 in glioma cells induced apoptosis and inhibited growth, the cell cycle, migration and invasion. In addition, the in vivo study showed that miR-543 suppressed tumorigenicity of glioma cells. In the present study, a label-free quantitative proteomic approach was performed and 339 proteins were identified as dysregulated after miR-543 was overexpressed. Among these dysregulated proteins, 165 were upregulated and 174 were downregulated. Moreover, multiple pathways were significantly enriched and were probably involved in miR-543-mediated tumorigenesis, including RNA degradation and the inositol phosphate metabolism pathway. In conclusion, miR-543 may function as a tumor suppressor in glioma and may serve as a future therapeutic target in therapy for patients with glioma.

Overexpression of miR-584-5p inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis by targeting WW domain-containing E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 1 in gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

MicroRNAs are endogenously expressed, small non-coding RNAs that modulate gene expression by targeting specific mRNAs, resulting in translational repression or mRNA degradation. Although miR-584-5p has been reported to play a vital role in various malignancies, its role and the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of miR-584-5p in gastric cancer (GC) remain to be clarified. In this study, we investigated the role of miR-584-5p in GC.

METHODS

The expression of miR-584-5p and its specific target gene were determined in human GC specimens and cell lines by microRNA real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) and Western blot. The effects of miR-584-5p depletion or ectopic expression on GC proliferation were evaluated in vitro using CCK-8 proliferation assays, 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) incorporation, colony formation assays and cell-cycle assays and the in vivo effects were investigated using a mouse tumorigenicity model. Cell apoptosis was evaluated by in vitro flow cytometric analysis, cell viability assays and in vivo TUNEL assays. Luciferase reporter assays were employed to identify interactions between miR-584-5p and its specific target gene.

RESULTS

A series of in vitro and in vivo gain- and loss-of-function assays revealed that miR-584-5p inhibited GC cell proliferation, while apoptosis was induced. Luciferase reporter assays and Western blot analysis revealed WWP1 to be a direct target of miR-584-5p. The effects of miR-584-5p-mimic were rescued by WWP1 overexpression. In contrast, the effects of the miR-584-5p-inhibitor were impaired by WWP1-shRNA. Furthermore, miR-584-5p expression levels correlated negatively with WWP1 protein expression in GC tissues and GC cell lines. A series of investigations indicated that miR-584-5p promoted senescence and activated the TGFβ signaling pathway by downregulation of WWP1.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, these results suggest that downregulation of miR-584-5p contributes to tumor progression by downregulation of WWP1, thus, highlighting the potential of miR-584-5p as a therapeutic target for human GC.

Regulation of TRIM24 by miR-511 modulates cell proliferation in gastric cancer

Background

Increasing evidence highlights the important roles of tripartite motif containing 24 (TRIM24) in tumor initiation and malignant progression in many tumors, including gastric cancer (GC). Although TRIM24 expression is remarkably upregulated during GC carcinogenesis, the molecular mechanisms underlying TRIM24 dysregulation remain unexplored.

Methods

In this study, miRNA target prediction tools were applied to explore miRNAs that potentially target TRIM24. Western blot and quantitative reverse-transcriptase PCR (qRT-PCR) were performed to detected TRIM24 and miR-511 expression in GC tissues and cell lines. Dual-luciferase reporter assay was utilized to validate if TRIM24 is a direct target gene of miR-511. CCK-8 assay, cell colony formation assay, EdU incorporation assay and cell cycle analysis were performed to determine whether miR-511-mediated regulation of TRIM24 could affect GC progression.

Results

In our study, miR-511 was found to be downregulated in GC and an inverse correlation was observed between TRIM24 and miR-511 expression in primary GC tissues and cell lines. Dual-luciferase reporter assay further verified TRIM24 is a direct target of miR-511. Functional assays showed miR-511 overexpression inhibited cell growth, colony formation ability and cell cycle progression. Conversely, inhibition of endogenous miR-511 promoted these phenotypes in GC cells. Moreover, reintroduction of TRIM24 rescued miR-511-induced inhibitory effects on GC cells. Furthermore, miR-511 elicits tumor-suppressive effects through inactivating PI3K/AKT and Wnt/β-catenin pathways by suppressing TRIM24.

Conclusions

Our results provide the new evidence supporting the tumor-suppressive role of miR-511 in GC by suppressing TRIM24, suggesting that this novel miR-511/TRIM24 axis is critical in the control of gastric cancer tumorigenesis.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13046-017-0489-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.