MiR-423-5p prevents MALAT1-mediated proliferation and metastasis in prostate cancer

Targeting lncRNA MALAT1: A Promising Approach to Overcome Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a collection of metabolic abnormalities including insulin resistance, atherogenic dyslipidemia, central obesity, and hypertension. Recently, long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as pivotal regulators of metabolic balance, influencing the genes associated with MetS. Although the prevalence of insulin resistance is rising, leading to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its vascular complications, there is still a notable gap in understanding the role of lncRNAs in the context of clinical diabetes. Among lncRNAs, lung adenocarcinoma metastasis-associated transcript 1 (MALAT1) has been identified as a significant regulator of metabolism-related disorders, including T2DM and cardiovascular disease (CVD). This review explores the mechanism of lncRNA MALAT1 and suggests that targeting it could offer a promising strategy to combat MetS, thereby enhancing the prognosis of MetS.

Non-Coding RNAs in Myasthenia Gravis: From Immune Regulation to Personalized Medicine

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an antibody-mediated autoimmune disorder characterized by altered neuromuscular transmission, which causes weakness and fatigability in the skeletal muscles. The etiology of MG is complex, being associated with multiple genetic and environmental factors. Over recent years, progress has been made in understanding the immunological alterations implicated in the disease, but the exact pathogenesis still needs to be elucidated. A pathogenic interplay between innate immunity and autoimmunity contributes to the intra-thymic MG development. Epigenetic changes are critically involved in both innate and adaptive immune response regulation. They can act as (i) pathological factors besides genetic predisposition and (ii) co-factors contributing to disease phenotypes or patient-specific disease course/outcomes. This article reviews the role of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) as epigenetic factors implicated in MG. Particular attention is dedicated to microRNAs (miRNAs), whose expression is altered in MG patients' thymuses and circulating blood. The long ncRNA (lncRNA) contribution to MG, although not fully characterized yet, is also discussed. By summarizing the most recent and fast-growing findings on ncRNAs in MG, we highlight the therapeutic potential of these molecules for achieving immune regulation and their value as biomarkers for the development of personalized medicine approaches to improve disease care.

LncRNA MALAT-1 modulates EGFR-TKI resistance in lung adenocarcinoma cells by downregulating miR-125

Molecular targeted therapy resistance remains a major challenge in treating lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). The resistance of Epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs, epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitor) plays a dominant role in molecular targeted therapy. Our previous research demonstrated the role of MALAT-1 (Metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1) in the formation of Erlotinib-resistant LUAD cells. This study aims to uncover the mechanism of MALAT-1 overexpression in Erlotinib-resistant LUAD cells. The RT2 LncRNA PCR array system was used to explore MALAT-1 regulation in Erlotinib-resistant LUAD cells through patient serum analysis. Dual luciferase reporter experiments confirmed the binding between MALAT-1 and miR-125, leading to regulation of miR-125 expression. Functional assays were performed to elucidate the impact of MALAT1 on modulating drug resistance, growth, and Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT, Epithelial-mesenchymal transition) in both parental and Erlotinib-resistant LUAD cells. The investigation unveiled the mechanism underlying the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA, competing endogenouse RNA) pathway. MALAT1 exerted its regulatory effect on miR-125 as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA). Moreover, MALAT1 played a role in modulating the sensitivity of LUAD cells to Erlotinib. Rab25 was identified as the direct target of miR-125 and mediated the functional effects of MALAT1 in Erlotinib-resistant LUAD cells. In conclusion, our study reveals overexpress MALAT-1 cause the drug resistance of EGFR-TKIs in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) through the MALAT-1/miR-125/Rab25 axis. These findings present a potential novel therapeutic target and perspective for the treatment of LUAD.

Utilizing Liquid-liquid phase separation-related lncRNAs to predict the prognosis and treatment response of PCa

BACKGROUND

Studies have indicated a close association between genes linked to liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) and the progression of prostate cancer (PCa). However, the interplay among long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) linked to LLPS in PCa remains elusive. Therefore, we constructed a prediction model based on LLPS-related LncRNA in PCa to explore its relationship with the prognosis and drug treatment of PCa.

METHODS

We obtained clinical and sequencing data from TCGA and LLPS genes from the Phase Separation Protein Database. By analyzing the differential expression of LLPS-related genes and lncRNAs in prostate cancer, and using Poisson correlation, we identified LLPS-related lncRNAs. Prognostic LLPS-lncRNAs were found through prognostic correlation analysis and included in a Cox model to compute regression coefficients. Patients were scored and divided into high- and low-risk groups. Independent prognostic factors were integrated into a prognostic nomogram with risk and Gleason scores. We also conducted drug sensitivity analyses, GSEA, and validated the impact of key lncRNAs through functional experiments.

RESULTS

Our study identified five LLPS-associated lncRNAs that are of prognostic importance. And found notable disparities in biochemical recurrence rates and survival outcomes between these risk groups, with the low-risk cohort exhibiting superior prognostic indicators. Moreover, our prediction nomogram demonstrated robust predictive accuracy and significant clinical utility. Furthermore, our model exhibited promising capabilities in forecasting patient sensitivity to various conventional therapeutic drugs, thereby highlighting its potential in personalized treatment strategies. GSEA showed that these lncRNAs may influence PCa prognosis and sensitivity to therapeutic agents by affecting pathways such as cell cycle. Knockdown of AC009812.4 could inhibit the ability of PCa cells to proliferate, migrate and invade, and compare to paracancerous tissue, AC009812.4 in PCa tissue has significantly higher expression.

CONCLUSION

Our research uncovers the prognostic significance of lncRNAs associated with LLPS in PCa and established a model exhibiting excellent predictive accuracy for prognosis. Those lncRNAs may influence progress of PCa as well as sensitivity to therapy drugs through pathways such as cell cycle.

Effect of metformin on gut microbiota imbalance in patients with T2DM, and the value of probiotic supplementation

PURPOSE

To investigate the effect of metformin on gut microbiota imbalance in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and the value of probiotic supplementation.

METHODS

A total of 84 newly diagnosed T2DM patients were randomly divided into probiotics group, metformin group, and control group, with 28 patients in each group. The blood glucose control, islet function, gut microbiota, and inflammatory factors were compared between three groups.

RESULTS

After 3 months of treatment, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), 2-h postprandial plasma glucose (2-h PG), and glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) were evidently decreased in both probiotics and metformin groups (P < 0.05) and were lower than that in the control group prior to treatment. Besides, FPG, 2-h PG, and HbA1c were lower in the metformin group than that in the control group. FPG, 2-h PG, and HbA1c were further lower in the probiotic group than in the metformin group (P < 0.05). Fasting insulin (FINS) and islet β cell (HOMA-β) -function were dramatically increased in the same group (P < 0.05), while insulin-resistant islet β cells (HOMA-IR) were significantly lower in the same group (P < 0.05); FINS and HOMA-β were significantly higher, while HOMA-IR was significantly lower (P < 0.05) in both groups than in the control group prior to treatment. HOMA-IR was also lower in the probiotic group than in the metformin group after treatment (P < 0.05); the number of lactobacilli and bifidobacteria increased (P < 0.05) in both probiotic and metformin groups than in the control group prior to treatment, and the number of Enterobacteriaceae and Enterococcus was lower in the control group prior to treatment (P < 0.05). In addition, the number of lactobacilli and bifidobacteria was higher and the number of enterobacteria and enterococci was lower in the probiotic group than that in the metformin group after treatment, and the differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05). Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were lower in both probiotic and metformin groups (P < 0.05). The serum LPS, IL-6, and CRP levels were lower in both probiotic and metformin groups, compared to the control group prior to the treatment (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Metformin while treating T2DM assists in improving the imbalance of gut microbiota.

miRNA-27a-3p is involved in the plasticity of differentiated hepatocytes

BACKGROUND

Epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, and chromatin remodeling, are highly involved in the regulation of hepatocyte viability, proliferation, and plasticity. We have previously demonstrated that repression of H3K27 methylation in differentiated hepatic HepaRG cells by treatment with GSK-J4, an inhibitor of JMJD3 and UTX H3K27 demethylase activity, changed their phenotype, inducing differentiated hepatocytes to proliferate. In addition to the epigenetic enzymatic role in the regulation of the retro-differentiation process, emerging evidence indicate that microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in controlling hepatocyte proliferation during liver regeneration. Hence, the aim of this work is to investigate the impact of H3K27 methylation on miRNAs expression profile and its role in the regulation of the differentiation status of human hepatic progenitors HepaRG cells.

METHODS

A miRNA-sequencing was carried out in differentiated HepaRG cells treated or not with GSK-J4. Target searching and Gene Ontology analysis were performed to identify the molecular processes modulated by differentially expressed miRNAs. The biological functions of selected miRNAs was further investigated by transfection of miRNAs inhibitors or mimics in differentiated HepaRG cells followed by qPCR analysis, albumin ELISA assay, CD49a FACS analysis and EdU staining.

RESULTS

We identified 12 miRNAs modulated by GSK-J4; among these, miR-27a-3p and miR- 423-5p influenced the expression of several proliferation genes in differentiated HepaRG cells. MiR-27a-3p overexpression increased the number of hepatic cells reentering proliferation. Interestingly, both miR-27a-3p and miR-423-5p did not affect the expression levels of genes involved in the differentiation of progenitors HepaRG cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Modulation of H3K27me3 methylation in differentiated HepaRG cells, by GSK-J4 treatment, influenced miRNA' s expression profile pushing liver cells towards a proliferating phenotype. We demonstrated the involvement of miR-27a-3p in reinducing proliferation of differentiated hepatocytes suggesting a potential role in liver plasticity.

Long noncoding RNA MALAT-1: A versatile regulator in cancer progression, metastasis, immunity, and therapeutic resistance

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are RNA transcripts longer than 200 nucleotides that do not code for proteins but have been linked to cancer development and metastasis. Metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT-1) influences crucial cancer hallmarks through intricate molecular mechanisms, including proliferation, invasion, angiogenesis, apoptosis, and the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). The current article highlights the involvement of MALAT-1 in drug resistance, making it a potential target to overcome chemotherapy refractoriness. It discusses the impact of MALAT-1 on immunomodulatory molecules, such as major histocompatibility complex (MHC) proteins and PD-L1, leading to immune evasion and hindering anti-tumor immune responses. MALAT-1 also plays a significant role in cancer immunology by regulating diverse immune cell populations. In summary, MALAT-1 is a versatile cancer regulator, influencing tumorigenesis, chemoresistance, and immunotherapy responses. Understanding its precise molecular mechanisms is crucial for developing targeted therapies, and therapeutic strategies targeting MALAT-1 show promise for improving cancer treatment outcomes. However, further research is needed to fully uncover the role of MALAT-1 in cancer biology and translate these findings into clinical applications.

Beyond the Genome: Deciphering the Role of MALAT1 in Breast Cancer Progression

The MALAT1, a huge non-coding RNA, recently came to light as a multifaceted regulator in the intricate landscape of breast cancer (BC) progression. This review explores the multifaceted functions and molecular interactions of MALAT1, shedding light on its profound implications for understanding BC pathogenesis and advancing therapeutic strategies. The article commences by acknowledging the global impact of BC and the pressing need for insights into its molecular underpinnings. It is stated that the core lncRNA MALAT1 has a range of roles in both healthy and diseased cell functions. The core of this review unravels MALAT1's multifaceted role in BC progression, elucidating its participation in critical processes like resistance, invasion, relocation, and proliferating cells to therapy. It explores the intricate mechanisms through which MALAT1 modulates gene expression, interacts with other molecules, and influences signalling pathways. Furthermore, the paper emphasizes MALAT1's clinical significance as a possible prognostic and diagnostic biomarker. Concluding on a forward-looking note, the review highlights the broader implications of MALAT1 in BC biology, such as its connections to therapy resistance and metastasis. It underscores the significance of deeper investigations into these intricate molecular interactions to pave the way for precision medicine approaches. This review highlights the pivotal role of MALAT1 in BC progression by deciphering its multifaceted functions beyond the genome, offering profound insights into its implications for disease understanding and the potential for targeted therapeutic interventions.

LncRNA MALAT1 suppresses monocyte-endothelial cell interactions by targeting miR-30b-5p and enhancing ATG5-mediated autophagy

Background

Monocyte-endothelial cell (EC) interactions are one of the earliest events in the development of atherosclerosis and play a crucial role in atherosclerotic plaque formation. Although attempts have been made to modulate this interaction, the underlying molecular signalling mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the role of long non-coding RNA MALAT1 in monocyte-EC interactions.

Methods

The expression of MALAT1, ICAM-1, VCAM-1, P-selectin, CCL2 and CXCL1 was evaluated in ApoE-/- mouse aortic tissues and inflamed human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The regulatory impact of MALAT1 on cell adhesion molecules, monocyte-EC adhesion, and autophagy was assessed. The interactions between MALAT1 and microRNAs (miRNAs) were evaluated using dual-luciferase reporter and RNA pull-down assays.

Results

MALAT1 expression decreased in ApoE-/- mouse aortic tissues and inflammatory HUVECs. MALAT1 overexpression suppressed the expression of ICAM-1, VCAM-1 and CXCL1, and reduced the migration and adhesion of monocytes to ECs. Inhibition of MALAT1 promoted cell adhesion molecule expression and monocyte-EC interactions. Mechanistically, MALAT1 binds directly to miR-30b-5p and decreases its effective expression by functioning as an endogenous sponge, thereby increasing the expression of autophagy-related gene 5 (ATG5) and stimulates endothelial autophagy.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that MALAT1 suppresses monocyte-EC interactions by targeting miR-30b-5p and enhancing ATG5-mediated endothelial autophagy. These data imply that MALAT1 may play a protective role at the early stages of the atherosclerotic process.

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

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

Beyond the genome: MALAT1's role in advancing urologic cancer care

Urologic cancers (UCs), which include bladder, kidney, and prostate tumors, account for almost a quarter of all malignancies. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are tissue-specific RNAs that influence cell growth, death, and division. LncRNAs are dysregulated in UCs, and their abnormal expression may allow them to be used in cancer detection, outlook, and therapy. With the identification of several novel lncRNAs and significant exploration of their functions in various illnesses, particularly cancer, the study of lncRNAs has evolved into a new obsession. MALAT1 is a flexible tumor regulator implicated in an array of biological activities and disorders, resulting in an important research issue. MALAT1 appears as a hotspot, having been linked to the dysregulation of cell communication, and is intimately linked to cancer genesis, advancement, and response to treatment. MALAT1 additionally operates as a competitive endogenous RNA, binding to microRNAs and resuming downstream mRNA transcription and operation. This regulatory system influences cell growth, apoptosis, motility, penetration, and cell cycle pausing. MALAT1's evaluation and prognosis significance are highlighted, with a thorough review of its manifestation levels in several UC situations and its association with clinicopathological markers. The investigation highlights MALAT1's adaptability as a possible treatment target, providing fresh ways for therapy in UCs as we integrate existing information The article not only gathers current knowledge on MALAT1's activities but also lays the groundwork for revolutionary advances in the treatment of UCs.

MiR-15b-3p weakens bicalutamide sensitivity in prostate cancer via targeting KLF2 to suppress ferroptosis

Bicalutamide (BIC) resistance impedes the treatment of prostate cancer (PCa) and seems to involve ferroptosis; however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Our study aimed to explore how miR-15b-3p modulates ferroptosis in response to BIC resistance and determine whether the miRNA is suitable for early screening of PCa. Here, we found that PCa tissues had significantly higher miR-15b-3p expression than adjacent normal tissues. Analysis of blood samples in patients who underwent prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening revealed that miR-15b-3p was a more accurate diagnostic than PSA (miR-15b-3p area under the curve [AUC] = 0.941, PSA AUC = 0.815). In vitro experiments then demonstrated that miR-15b-3p expression was markedly higher in LNCaP, PC-3, and DU145 cells than in RWPE-1 cells. Treatment with BIC decreased miR-15b-3p expression and progressive ferroptosis. Mechanistically, we identified KLF2 as the downstream target of miR-15b-3p. Overexpressing KLF2 facilitated ferroptosis via augmenting MDA and iron concentrations, in turn inhibiting the SLC7A11/GPX4 axis and decreasing GSH concentration. Through modulating ferroptosis, miR-15b-3p mimic and inhibitor weakened and enhanced BIC sensitivity, respectively. Furthermore, BIC treatment limited xenograft tumor volume in vivo, whereas agomir-15b-3p promoted tumor growth, indicating that miR-15b-3p attenuated the tumor-suppressive effects of BIC. Taken together, our results suggested that miR-15b-3p is crucial to BIC resistance, specifically via targeting KLF2 and thereby suppressing ferroptosis. High miR-15b-3p expression in early PCa screening should reflect a higher probability of cancer. In conclusion, miR-15b-3p has strong potential as a screening and diagnostic biomarker with reliable prospects for clinical application. Furthermore, because patients with high miR-15b-3p and low KLF2 expression have a greater risk of BIC resistance and malignant progression, targeting the miRNA and its downstream protein may be a new treatment strategy.

MALAT1 promotes FOXA1 degradation by competitively binding to miR-216a-5p and enhancing neuroendocrine differentiation in prostate cancer

OBJECTIVES

Prostate cancer (PC) is a leading cause of cancer-related death in males worldwide. Neuroendocrine differentiation (NED) is a feature of PC that often goes undetected and is associated with poor patient outcomes. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs/miRs), and messenger RNAs (mRNAs) play important roles in the development and progression of PC.

METHODS

In this study, we used transcriptome sequencing and bioinformatics analysis to identify key regulators of NED in PC. Specifically, we examined the expression of PC-related lncRNAs, miRNAs, and mRNAs in PC cells and correlated these findings with NED phenotypes.

RESULTS

Our data revealed that metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) and zinc finger protein 91 (ZFP91) were upregulated in PC, while miR-216a-5p was down-regulated. Ectopic expression of MALAT1 induced NED and promoted malignant phenotypes of PC cells. Furthermore, we found that MALAT1 competitively bound to miR-216a-5p, upregulated ZFP91, and promoted the degradation of forkhead box A1 (FOXA1), a key gene involved in NED of PC.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, these results suggest that MALAT1 plays an oncogenic role in NED and metastasis of PC via the miR-216a-5p/ZFP91/FOXA1 pathway. Our study highlights the potential of targeting this pathway as a novel therapeutic strategy for PC.

MALAT1/miR-7-5p/TCF4 Axis Regulating Menstrual Blood Mesenchymal Stem Cells Improve Thin Endometrium Fertility by the Wnt Signaling Pathway

Thin endometrium (TE) is a significant factor contributing to fertility challenges, and addressing this condition remains a central challenge in reproductive medicine. Menstrual blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MenSCs) play a crucial role in tissue repair and regeneration, including that of TE. The Wnt signaling pathway, which is highly conserved and prevalent in eukaryotes, is essential for cell proliferation, tissue development, and reproductive functions. MALAT1 is implicated in various transcriptional and molecular functions, including cell proliferation and metastasis. However, the combined effects of the Wnt signaling pathway and the long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) MALAT1 on the regulation of MenSCs' regenerative capabilities in tissue engineering have not yet been explored. To elucidate the regulatory mechanism of MALAT1 in TE, we analyzed its expression levels in normal endometrium and TE tissues, finding that low expression of MALAT1 was associated with poor clinical prognosis. In addition, we conducted both in vitro and in vivo functional assays to examine the role of the MALAT1/miR-7-5p/TCF4 axis in cell proliferation and migration. Techniques such as dual-luciferase reporter assay, fluorescent in situ hybridization, and immunoblot experiments were utilized to clarify the molecular mechanism. To corroborate these findings, we established a TE model and conducted pregnancy experiments, demonstrating a strong association between MALAT1 expression and endometrial fertility. In conclusion, our comprehensive study provides strong evidence supporting that lncRNA MALAT1 modulates TCF4 expression in the Wnt signaling pathway through interaction with miR-7-5p, thus enhancing MenSCs-mediated improvement of TE and improving fertility.

From LncRNA to metastasis: The MALAT1-EMT axis in cancer progression

Cancer is a complex disease that causes abnormal genetic changes and unchecked cellular growth. It also causes a disruption in the normal regulatory processes that leads to the creation of malignant tissue. The complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and epigenetic variables influences its etiology. Long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) have emerged as pivotal contributors within the intricate landscape of cancer biology, orchestrating an array of multifaceted cellular processes that substantiate the processes of carcinogenesis and metastasis. Metastasis is a crucial driver of cancer mortality. Among these, MALAT1 (Metastasis-Associated Lung Adenocarcinoma Transcript 1) has drawn a lot of interest for its function in encouraging metastasis via controlling the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) procedure. MALAT1 exerts a pivotal influence on the process of EMT, thereby promoting metastasis to distant organs. The mechanistic underpinning of this phenomenon involves the orchestration of an intricate regulatory network encompassing transcription factors, signalling cascades, and genes intricately associated with the EMT process by MALAT1. Its crucial function in transforming tumor cells into an aggressive phenotype is highlighted by its capacity to influence the expression of essential EMT effectors such as N-cadherin, E-cadherin, and Snail. An understanding of the MALAT1-EMT axis provides potential therapeutic approaches for cancer intervention. Targeting MALAT1 or its downstream EMT effectors may reduce the spread of metastatic disease and improve the effectiveness of already available therapies. Understanding the MALAT1-EMT axis holds significant clinical implications. Therefore, directing attention towards MALAT1 or its downstream mediators could present innovative therapeutic strategies for mitigating metastasis and improving patient prognosis. This study highlights the importance of MALAT1 in cancer biology and its potential for cutting back on metastatic disease with novel treatment strategies.

Targeting non-coding RNAs: Perspectives and challenges of in-silico approaches

The growing information currently available on the central role of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) including microRNAs (miRNAS) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) for chronic and degenerative human diseases makes them attractive therapeutic targets. RNAs carry out different functional roles in human biology and are deeply deregulated in several diseases. So far, different attempts to therapeutically target the 3D RNA structures with small molecules have been reported. In this scenario, the development of computational tools suitable for describing RNA structures and their potential interactions with small molecules is gaining more and more interest. Here, we describe the most suitable strategies to study ncRNAs through computational tools. We focus on methods capable of predicting 2D and 3D ncRNA structures. Furthermore, we describe computational tools to identify, design and optimize small molecule ncRNA binders. This review aims to outline the state of the art and perspectives of computational methods for ncRNAs over the past decade.

Small Mitochondria-Targeting Fluorophore with Multifunctional Therapeutic Activities against Prostate Cancer via the HIF1α/OATPs Pathway

Prostate cancer (PCa) is considered to be the most prevalent malignancy in males worldwide. Abiraterone is a 17α-hydroxylase/C17, 20-lyase (CYP17) inhibitor that has been approved for use in patients with prostate cancer. However, several negative aspects, such as drug resistance, toxicity, and lack of real-time monitoring of treatment responses, could appear with long-term use. Therefore, the development of anticancer agents with specific targeting to avoid side effects is imperative. Here, we used MHI-148, a type of heptamethine cyanine (HC) near-infrared fluorescence dye (NIRF), as a prototype structure to synthesize two theranostic agents, Abi-DZ-1 and Abi-783. The new compound Abi-DZ-1 retained the excellent photophysical characteristics and NIRF imaging property of MHI-148, and it could preferentially accumulate in prostate cancer cells but not in normal prostate epithelial cells via the HIF1α/organic anion-transporting polypeptides axis. NIRF imaging using Abi-DZ-1 selectively identified tumors in mice bearing PCa xenografts. Moreover, Abi-DZ-1 treatment significantly retarded the tumor growth in both a cell-derived xenograft model and a patient-derived tumor xenograft model. This finding demonstrated that Abi-DZ-1 may hold promise as a potential multifunctional theranostic agent for future tumor-targeted imaging and precision therapy. Constructing theranostic agents using the NIRF dye platform holds great promise in accurate therapy and intraoperative navigation.

COVID-19 Vaccination in Pregnancy: Pilot Study for Maternal and Neonatal MicroRNA Profiles

This pilot study explores alterations in miRNA profiles among pregnant women and their neonates upon receiving different doses of COVID-19 vaccines. Blood samples, including maternal blood (MB) and neonatal cord blood (CB), collected from five pregnant women were scrutinized using the miRNA PanelChip Analysis System, identifying nine distinct miRNAs, including miR-451a and miR-1972, which exhibited significant downregulation with two vaccine doses in both MB and CB. When compared with women vaccinated with four doses, miR-486-5p, miR-451a, and miR-1972 in the two-dose group also showed notable downregulation. Evaluating recipients of three and four doses, miR-423-5p and miR-1972 expression were significantly reduced in both MB and CB. Further comparative analysis highlighted a decline in miR-223-3p expression with increasing vaccine doses, while miR15a-5p, miR-16-5p, and miR-423-5p showed an upward trend. Notably, miR-451a, miR-1972, and miR-423-5p levels varied across doses and were associated with pathways such as "PI3K-Akt", "neurotrophin signaling", and "cortisol synthesis", suggesting the profound influence of vaccination on diverse molecular mechanisms. Our research has uncovered that escalating vaccine dosages impact miRNA profiles, which may be associated with the immunological response mechanisms in both the mother and fetus, thus indicating a substantial impact of vaccination on various molecular processes.

Unlocking the role of non-coding RNAs in prostate cancer progression: exploring the interplay with the Wnt signaling pathway

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common cancers in males, exhibiting a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations that pose challenges in its diagnosis and treatment. The Wnt signaling pathway, a conserved and complex pathway, is crucial for embryonic development, tissue homeostasis, and various physiological processes. Apart from the classical Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, there exist multiple non-classical Wnt signaling pathways, including the Wnt/PCP and Wnt/Ca2+ pathways. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are involved in the occurrence and development of PCa and the response to PCa treatment. ncRNAs are known to execute diverse regulatory roles in cellular processes, despite their inability to encode proteins. Among them, microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs play key roles in the regulation of the Wnt signaling pathway in PCa. Aberrant expression of these ncRNAs and dysregulation of the Wnt signaling pathway are one of the causes of cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, migration, and angiogenesis in PCa. Moreover, these ncRNAs affect the characteristics of PCa cells and hold promise as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. Herein, we summarize the role of ncRNAs in the regulation of the Wnt signaling pathway during the development of PCa. Additionally, we present an overview of the current progress in research on the correlation between these molecules and clinical features of the disease to provide novel insights and strategies for the treatment of PCa.

MiRNA-423 rs6505162 and miRNA-6811 rs2292879 SNP associated with lung cancer in Hainan, China

BACKGROUND

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are known to exert significant influence on various physiological processes and diseases, including cancers. The primary objective of this present study was to examine the impact of eight single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in miRNA on the susceptibility to lung cancer (LC) within the Chinese Southern population.

METHODS

The genotypes of these eight polymorphisms were determined in 132 LC patients and 214 cancer-free controls.

RESULTS

In overall analyses, GG genotype of miRNA-6811 rs2292879 polymorphism was significantly correlated with increased risk of LC (GG vs. AA, adjusted OR = 5.10, 95% CI = 1.02-25.43, P=0.047), yet the genotype frequencies of rs2292879 SNP in controls did not met the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) (P=0.001) in present study. Stratified analyses by smoking revealed that miRNA-423 rs6505162 variants significantly decreased the LC risk in heterozygous (CA vs. CC, adjusted OR = 0.14, 95% CI = 0.03-0.81, P=0.028) and recessive (AA vs. CA + CC, adjusted OR = 0.17, 95% CI = 0.03-0.90, P=0.038) genetic models in smoking population. However, miRNA-196A2 rs11614913, miRNA-196A2 rs12304647, miRNA-146A rs2910164, miRNA-16-1 rs1022960, miRNA-608 rs4919510, and miRNA-27a rs895819 polymorphisms were not significantly associated with LC.

CONCLUSION

The findings of our study indicate a potential decrease in LC risk among smokers with the miRNA-423 rs6505162 variants, while an increase in risk is associated with miRNA-6811 rs2292879 polymorphisms in the population of Southern Chinese. However, further well-designed research is necessary to fully understand the precise impact of these two SNPs on the development of LC.

Epigenetic regulation of temozolomide resistance in human cancers with an emphasis on brain tumors: Function of non-coding RNAs

Brain tumors, which are highly malignant, pose a significant threat to health and often result in substantial rates of mortality and morbidity worldwide. The brain cancer therapy has been challenging due to obstacles such as the BBB, which hinders effective delivery of therapeutic agents. Additionally, the emergence of drug resistance further complicates the management of brain tumors. TMZ is utilized in brain cancer removal, but resistance is a drawback. ncRNAs are implicated in various diseases, and their involvement in the cancer is particularly noteworthy. The focus of the current manuscript is to explore the involvement of ncRNAs in controlling drug resistance, specifically in the context of resistance to the chemotherapy drug TMZ. The review emphasizes the function of ncRNAs, particularly miRNAs, in modulating the growth and invasion of brain tumors, which significantly influences their response to TMZ treatment. Through their interactions with various molecular pathways, miRNAs are modulators of TMZ response. Similarly, lncRNAs also associate with molecular pathways and miRNAs, affecting the efficacy of TMZ chemotherapy. Given their functional properties, lncRNAs can either induce or suppress TMZ resistance in brain tumors. Furthermore, circRNAs, which are cancer controllers, regulate miRNAs by acting as sponges, thereby impacting the response to TMZ chemotherapy. The review explores the correlation between ncRNAs and TMZ chemotherapy, shedding light on the underlying molecular pathways involved in this process.

Unveiling the connection: Long-chain non-coding RNAs and critical signaling pathways in breast cancer

Breast cancer is a complex and diverse condition that disrupts multiple signaling pathways essential for cell proliferation, survival, and differentiation. Recently, the significant involvement of long-chain non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in controlling key signaling pathways associated with breast cancer development has been discovered. This review aims to explore the interaction between lncRNAs and various pathways, including the AKT/PI3K/mTOR, Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, DNA damage response, TGF-β, Hedgehog, and NF-κB signaling pathways, to gain a comprehensive understanding of their roles in breast cancer. The AKT/PI3K/mTOR pathway regulates cell growth, survival, and metabolic function. Recent data suggests that specific lncRNAs can influence the functioning of this pathway, acting as either oncogenes or tumor suppressors. Dysregulation of this pathway is commonly observed in breast cancer cases. Moreover, breast cancer development has been associated with other pathways such as Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, TGF-β, Hedgehog, and NF-κB. Emerging studies have identified lncRNAs that modulate breast cancer's growth, progression, and metastasis by interacting with these pathways. To advance the development of innovative diagnostic tools and targeted treatment options, it is crucial to comprehend the intricate relationship between lncRNAs and vital signaling pathways in breast cancer. By fully harnessing the therapeutic potential of lncRNAs, there is a possibility of developing more effective and personalized therapy choices for breast cancer patients. Further investigation is necessary to comprehensively understand the role of lncRNAs within breast cancer signaling pathways and fully exploit their therapeutic potential.

Angiogenesis and prostate cancer: MicroRNAs comes into view

Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, is an important stage in the growth of cancer. Extracellular matrix, endothelial cells, and soluble substances must be carefully coordinated during the multistep procedure of angiogenesis. Inducers and inhibitors have been found to control pretty much every phase. In addition to benign prostatic hyperplasia, prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia, and angiogenesis have a critical role in the initiation and progression of prostate cancer. MicroRNA (miRNA) is endogenous, short, non-coding RNA molecules of almost 22 nucleotides play a role in regulating cellular processes and regulating several genes' expression. Through controlling endothelial migration, differentiation, death, and cell proliferation, miRNAs have a significant function in angiogenesis. A number of pathological and physiological processes, particularly prostate cancer's emergence, depend on the regulation of angiogenesis. Investigating the functions played with miRNAs in angiogenesis is crucial because it might result in the creation of novel prostate cancer therapies that entail regulating angiogenesis. The function of several miRNAs and its targeting genes engaged in cancer of the prostate angiogenesis will be reviewed in this review in light of the most recent developments. The potential clinical utility of miRNAs potentially a novel therapeutic targets will also be explored, as well as their capacity to control prostate cancer angiogenesis and the underlying mechanisms.

A burst of genomic innovation at the origin of placental mammals mediated embryo implantation

The origin of embryo implantation in mammals ~148 million years ago was a dramatic shift in reproductive strategy, yet the molecular changes that established mammal implantation are largely unknown. Although progesterone receptor signalling predates the origin of mammals and is highly conserved in, and critical for, successful mammal pregnancy, it alone cannot explain the origin and subsequent diversity of implantation strategies throughout the placental mammal radiation. MiRNAs are known to be flexible and dynamic regulators with a well-established role in the pathophysiology of mammal placenta. We propose that a dynamic core microRNA (miRNA) network originated early in placental mammal evolution, responds to conserved mammal pregnancy cues (e.g. progesterone), and facilitates species-specific responses. Here we identify 13 miRNA gene families that arose at the origin of placental mammals and were subsequently retained in all descendent lineages. The expression of these miRNAs in response to early pregnancy molecules is regulated in a species-specific manner in endometrial epithelia of species with extreme implantation strategies (i.e. bovine and human). Furthermore, this set of miRNAs preferentially target proteins under positive selective pressure on the ancestral eutherian lineage. Discovery of this core embryo implantation toolkit and specifically adapted proteins helps explain the origin and evolution of implantation in mammals.

Importance of long non-coding RNAs in the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of prostate cancer

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are regulatory transcripts with essential roles in the pathogenesis of almost all types of cancers, including prostate cancer. They can act as either oncogenic lncRNAs or tumor suppressor ones in prostate cancer. Small nucleolar RNA host genes are among the mostly assessed oncogenic lncRNAs in this cancer. PCA3 is an example of oncogenic lncRNAs that has been approved as a diagnostic marker in prostate cancer. A number of well-known oncogenic lncRNAs in other cancers such as DANCR, MALAT1, CCAT1, PVT1, TUG1 and NEAT1 have also been shown to act as oncogenes in prostate cancer. On the other hand, LINC00893, LINC01679, MIR22HG, RP1-59D14.5, MAGI2-AS3, NXTAR, FGF14-AS2 and ADAMTS9-AS1 are among lncRNAs that act as tumor suppressors in prostate cancer. LncRNAs can contribute to the pathogenesis of prostate cancer via modulation of androgen receptor (AR) signaling, ubiquitin-proteasome degradation process of AR or other important signaling pathways. The current review summarizes the role of lncRNAs in the evolution of prostate cancer with an especial focus on their importance in design of novel biomarker panels and therapeutic targets.

Emerging role of oncogenic long noncoding RNA as cancer biomarkers

The view of long noncoding RNAs as nonfunctional "garbage" has been definitely outdated by the large body of evidence indicating this class of ncRNAs as "golden junk", especially in precision oncology. Indeed, in light of their oncogenic role and the higher expression in multiple cancer types compared with paired adjacent tissues, the clinical interest for lncRNAs as diagnostic and/or prognostic biomarkers has been rapidly increasing. The emergence of large-scale sequencing technologies, their subsequent diffusion even in small research and clinical centers, the technological advances for the detection of low-copy lncRNAs in body fluids, coupled to the huge reduction of operating costs, have nowadays made possible to rapidly and comprehensively profile them in multiple tumors and large cohorts. In this review, we first summarize some relevant data about the oncogenic role of well-studied lncRNAs having a clinical relevance. Then, we focus on the description of their potential use as diagnostic/prognostic biomarkers, including an updated overview about licensed patents or clinical trials on lncRNAs in oncology.

LINC01278 Induces Autophagy to Inhibit Tumour Progression by Suppressing the mTOR Signalling Pathway

Uveal melanoma (UM) is an aggressive intraocular malignant tumour that is closely related to autophagic dysfunction. We aimed to identify autophagy-related long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) to elucidate the molecular mechanism of UM. Here, we show that LINC01278 is a new potential biomarker with clinical prognostic value in UM through bioinformatics analysis. Application of an autophagy inhibitor (3-MA) and an autophagy agonist (MG-132) indicated that LINC01278 can inhibit UM cell proliferation, migration, and invasion by inducing autophagy. A xenograft nude mouse model was used to examine the tumorigenesis of UM cells in vivo. Mechanistically, LINC01278 can inhibit the mTOR signalling pathway to activate autophagy, as shown by experiments with an mTOR agonist (MHY1485) and mTOR inhibitor (rapamycin) treatment. Our findings indicate that LINC01278 functions as a tumour suppressor by inhibiting the mTOR signalling pathway to induce autophagy. Targeting the LINC01278-mTOR axis might be a novel and promising therapeutic approach for UM.

A Proteomic Approach Reveals That miR-423-5p Modulates Glucidic and Amino Acid Metabolism in Prostate Cancer Cells

Recently, we have demonstrated that miR-423-5p modulates the growth and metastases of prostate cancer (PCa) cells both in vitro and in vivo. Here, we have studied the effects of miR-423-5p on the proteomic profile in order to identify its intracellular targets and the affected pathways. Applying a quantitative proteomic approach, we analyzed the effects on the protein expression profile of miR-423-5p-transduced PCa cells. Moreover, a computational analysis of predicted targets of miR-423-5p was carried out by using several target prediction tools. Proteomic analysis showed that 63 proteins were differentially expressed in miR-423-5-p-transfected LNCaP cells if compared to controls. Pathway enrichment analysis revealed that stable overexpression of miR-423-5p in LNCaP PCa cells induced inhibition of glycolysis and the metabolism of several amino acids and a parallel downregulation of proteins involved in transcription and hypoxia, the immune response through Th17-derived cytokines, inflammation via amphorin signaling, and ion transport. Moreover, upregulated proteins were related to the S phase of cell cycle, chromatin modifications, apoptosis, blood coagulation, and calcium transport. We identified seven proteins commonly represented in miR-423-5p targets and differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) and analyzed their expression and influence on the survival of PCa patients from publicly accessible datasets. Overall, our findings suggest that miR-423-5p induces alterations in glucose and amino acid metabolism in PCa cells paralleled by modulation of several tumor-associated processes.

The effects of endosulfan on cell migration and invasion in prostate cancer cells via the KCNQ1OT1/miR-137-3p/PTP4A3 axis

Endosulfan belongs to persistent organic pollutants (POPs), closely related to an increased risk of prostate cancer (PCa). The existing evidence shows that lncRNAs compete with miRNAs for binding sites and contribute to the onset and progression of human malignancies. In this study we investigate how endosulfan promotes cell migration and invasion in DU145 and PC3 prostate cancer cells through epigenetic mechanism of lncRNA-miRNA regulation. Based on our past research we focused on PTP4A3 and constructed wild-type (WT) and mutant PTP4A3 plasmids for further analysis. Our results revealed that transfection of PTP4A3-WT can lead to changes in the expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) biomarkers and critical proteins in the TGF-β signaling pathway, and promote cell migration and invasion in PCa cells. Bioinformatics analysis shows that there were complementary sequences in PTP4A3 3'-UTR and KCNQ1OT1 3'-UTR to the seed sequence of hsa-miR-137-3p, and dual luciferase reporter assay indicates the potential binding capacity of miR-137-3p to 3'-UTR of PTP4A3 and KCNQ1OT1. We found that miR-137-3p mimic inhibited cell migration and invasion, as well as repressed alterations of EMT biomarkers and critical proteins in the TGF-β signaling pathway. Rescue experiment results revealed that co-transfection of miR-137-3p mimic and PTP4A3-WT plasmid reversed these changes following transfection with miR-137-3p mimic alone. We found that KCNQ1OT1 was predominantly distributed in the cytoplasm from a subcellular fractionation assay. Functionally, silencing of KCNQ1OT1 repressed cell migration and invasion, and caused alterations of EMT biomarkers and critical proteins in the TGF-β signaling pathway, which were all restored by co-transfection with anti-miR-137-3p or PTP4A3-WT plasmid. Furthermore, overexpression of miR-137-3p or silencing of KCNQ1OT1 dramatically rescued the effects of endosulfan on promoting cell migration and invasion. These findings suggest that endosulfan can indeed promote cell migration and invasion via the KCNQ1OT1/miR-137-3p/PTP4A3 axis in PCa cells.

lncRNA Malat1 and miR-26 cooperate in the regulation of neuronal progenitor cell proliferation and differentiation

Neurogenesis is a finely tuned process, which depends on the balanced execution of expression programs that regulate cellular differentiation and proliferation. Different molecular players ranging from transcription factors to chromatin modulators control these programs. Adding to the complexity, also non-coding (nc)RNAs take part in this process. Here we analyzed the function of the long non-coding (lnc)RNA Malat1 during neural embryonic stem cell (ESC) differentiation. We find that deletion of Malat1 leads to inhibition of proliferation of neural progenitor cells (NPCs). Interestingly, this co-insides with an increase in the expression of miR-26 family members miR-26a and miR-26b in differentiating ESCs. Inactivation of miR-26a/b rescues the proliferative phenotype of Malat1 knockout (KO) cells and leads to accelerated neuronal differentiation of compound Malat1KO/mir-26KO ESCs. Together our work identifies a so far unknown interaction between Malat1 and miR-26 in the regulation of NPC proliferation and neuronal differentiation.

MicroRNAs in extracellular vesicles: Sorting mechanisms, diagnostic value, isolation, and detection technology

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of short, single-stranded, noncoding RNAs, with a length of about 18–22 nucleotides. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are derived from cells and play a vital role in the development of diseases and can be used as biomarkers for liquid biopsy, as they are the carriers of miRNA. Existing studies have found that most of the functions of miRNA are mainly realized through intercellular transmission of EVs, which can protect and sort miRNAs. Meanwhile, detection sensitivity and specificity of EV-derived miRNA are higher than those of conventional serum biomarkers. In recent years, EVs have been expected to become a new marker for liquid biopsy. This review summarizes recent progress in several aspects of EVs, including sorting mechanisms, diagnostic value, and technology for isolation of EVs and detection of EV-derived miRNAs. In addition, the study reviews challenges and future research avenues in the field of EVs, providing a basis for the application of EV-derived miRNAs as a disease marker to be used in clinical diagnosis and even for the development of point-of-care testing (POCT) platforms.

CircCRIM1 promotes nasopharyngeal carcinoma progression via the miR-34c-5p/FOSL1 axis

BACKGROUND

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a rare malignancy with multiple risk factors (Epstein-Barr virus, etc.) that seriously threatens the health of people. CircRNAs are known to regulate the tumorigenesis of malignant tumours, including NPC. Moreover, circCRIM1 expression is reported to be upregulated in NPC. Nevertheless, the impact of circCRIM1 on NPC progression is not clear.

METHODS

An MTT assay was performed to assess cell viability. In addition, cell invasion and migration were assessed by the transwell assay. Dual luciferase assays were performed to assess the association among circCRIM1, miR-34c-5p and FOSL1. Moreover, RT-qPCR was applied to assess mRNA levels, and protein levels were determined by Western blot.

RESULTS

CircCRIM1 and FOSL1 were upregulated in NPC cells, while miR-34c-5p was downregulated. Knockdown of circCRIM1 significantly decreased the invasion, viability and migration of NPC cells. The miR-34c-5p inhibitor notably promoted the malignant behaviour of NPC cells, while miR-34c-5p mimics exerted the opposite effect. Moreover, circCRIM1 could bind with miR-34c-5p, and FOSL1 was identified to be downstream of miR-34c-5p. Furthermore, circCRIM1 downregulation notably inhibited the proliferation and invasion of NPC cells, while this phenomenon was significantly reversed by FOSL1 overexpression.

CONCLUSION

Silencing circCRIM1 inhibited the tumorigenesis of NPC. Thus, circCRIM1 might be a novel target for NPC.