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Chen T, Mahdadi S, Vidal M, Desbène-Finck S. Non-nucleoside inhibitors of DNMT1 and DNMT3 for targeted cancer therapy. Pharmacol Res 2024; 207:107328. [PMID: 39079576 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 07/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
DNA methylation can deactivate tumor suppressor genes thus causing cancers. Two DNA methylation inhibitors have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and have entered clinical use. However, these inhibitors are nucleoside analogues that can be incorporated into DNA or RNA and induce significant side effects. DNMT1 and DNMT3 are key enzymes involved in DNA methylation. In the acute myeloid leukemia model, a non-nucleoside DNMT1-specific inhibitor has shown lower toxicity and improved pharmacokinetics compared to traditional nucleoside drugs. DNMT3 is also implicated in certain specific cancers. Thus, developing non-nucleoside inhibitors for DNMT1 or DNMT3 can help in understanding their roles in carcinogenesis and provide targeted treatment options in certain cancers. Although no non-nucleoside inhibitors have yet entered clinical trials, in this review, we focus on DNMT1 or DNMT3 selective inhibitors. For DNMT1 selective inhibitors, we have compiled information on the repurposed drugs, derivative compounds and selective inhibitors identified through virtual screening. Additionally, we have outlined potential targets for DNMT1, including protein-protein complex, RNA mimics and aptamers. Compared to DNMT1, research on DNMT3-specific inhibitors has been less extensive. In this context, our exploration has identified a limited number of molecular inhibitors, and we have proposed specific long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) as potential contributors to the selective inhibition of DNMT3. This collective effort aims to offer valuable insights into the development of non-nucleoside inhibitors that selectively target DNMT1 or DNMT3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Chen
- UMR 8038 CNRS, U1268 INSERM, UFR de pharmacie, Université Paris cité, 75270, France
| | - Syrine Mahdadi
- UMR 8038 CNRS, U1268 INSERM, UFR de pharmacie, Université Paris cité, 75270, France
| | - Michel Vidal
- UMR 8038 CNRS, U1268 INSERM, UFR de pharmacie, Université Paris cité, 75270, France; Toxicology, Cochin Hospital, HUPC, APHP, Paris 75014, France
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2
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Cantile M, Belli V, Scognamiglio G, Martorana A, De Pietro G, Tracey M, Budillon A. The role of HOTAIR in the modulation of resistance to anticancer therapy. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 11:1414651. [PMID: 38887279 PMCID: PMC11181001 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2024.1414651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Leading anti-tumour therapeutic strategies typically involve surgery and radiotherapy for locally advanced (non-metastatic) cancers, while hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and molecular targeted therapy are the current treatment options for metastatic cancer. Despite the initially high sensitivity rate to anticancer therapies, a large number of patients develop resistance, leading to a poor prognosis. The mechanisms related to drug resistance are highly complex, and long non-coding RNAs appear to play a crucial role in these processes. Among these, the lncRNA homeobox transcript antisense intergenic RNA (HOTAIR), widely implicated in cancer initiation and progression, likewise plays a significant role in anticancer drug resistance. It can modulate cell activities such as proliferation, apoptosis, hypoxia, autophagy, as well as epithelial-mesenchymal transition, thereby contributing to the development of resistant tumour cells. In this manuscript, we describe different mechanisms of antitumor drug resistance in which HOTAIR is involved and suggest its potential as a therapeutic predictive biomarker for the management of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Cantile
- Scientific Directorate, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS Fondazione G. Pascale, Naples, Italy
| | - Valentina Belli
- Scientific Directorate, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS Fondazione G. Pascale, Naples, Italy
| | - Giosuè Scognamiglio
- Scientific Directorate, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS Fondazione G. Pascale, Naples, Italy
| | - Anna Martorana
- Scientific Directorate, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS Fondazione G. Pascale, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanna De Pietro
- Scientific Directorate, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS Fondazione G. Pascale, Naples, Italy
| | - Maura Tracey
- Rehabilitation Medicine Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS Fondazione G. Pascale, Naples, Italy
| | - Alfredo Budillon
- Scientific Directorate, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS Fondazione G. Pascale, Naples, Italy
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Alammari F, Al-Hujaily EM, Alshareeda A, Albarakati N, Al-Sowayan BS. Hidden regulators: the emerging roles of lncRNAs in brain development and disease. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1392688. [PMID: 38841098 PMCID: PMC11150811 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1392688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as critical players in brain development and disease. These non-coding transcripts, which once considered as "transcriptional junk," are now known for their regulatory roles in gene expression. In brain development, lncRNAs participate in many processes, including neurogenesis, neuronal differentiation, and synaptogenesis. They employ their effect through a wide variety of transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulatory mechanisms through interactions with chromatin modifiers, transcription factors, and other regulatory molecules. Dysregulation of lncRNAs has been associated with certain brain diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, cancer, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Altered expression and function of specific lncRNAs have been implicated with disrupted neuronal connectivity, impaired synaptic plasticity, and aberrant gene expression pattern, highlighting the functional importance of this subclass of brain-enriched RNAs. Moreover, lncRNAs have been identified as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for neurological diseases. Here, we give a comprehensive review of the existing knowledge of lncRNAs. Our aim is to provide a better understanding of the diversity of lncRNA structure and functions in brain development and disease. This holds promise for unravelling the complexity of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders, paving the way for the development of novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for improved diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farah Alammari
- Department of Blood and Cancer Research, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Clinical Laboratory Sciences Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ensaf M. Al-Hujaily
- Department of Blood and Cancer Research, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alaa Alshareeda
- Department of Blood and Cancer Research, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Saudi Biobank Department, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nada Albarakati
- Department of Blood and Cancer Research, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Ministry of the National Guard-Health Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Batla S. Al-Sowayan
- Department of Blood and Cancer Research, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Zhao J, Cui X, Zhan Q, Zhang K, Su D, Yang S, Hong B, Wang Q, Ju J, Cheng C, Li C, Wan C, Wang Y, Zhou J, Kang C. CRISPR-Cas9 library screening combined with an exosome-targeted delivery system addresses tumorigenesis/TMZ resistance in the mesenchymal subtype of glioblastoma. Theranostics 2024; 14:2835-2855. [PMID: 38773970 PMCID: PMC11103500 DOI: 10.7150/thno.92703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Rationale: The large-scale genomic analysis classifies glioblastoma (GBM) into three major subtypes, including classical (CL), proneural (PN), and mesenchymal (MES) subtypes. Each of these subtypes exhibits a varying degree of sensitivity to the temozolomide (TMZ) treatment, while the prognosis corresponds to the molecular and genetic characteristics of the tumor cell type. Tumors with MES features are predominantly characterized by the NF1 deletion/alteration, leading to sustained activation of the RAS and PI3K-AKT signaling pathways in GBM and tend to acquire drug resistance, resulting in the worst prognosis compared to other subtypes (PN and CL). Here, we used the CRISPR/Cas9 library screening technique to detect TMZ-related gene targets that might play roles in acquiring drug resistance, using overexpressed KRAS-G12C mutant GBM cell lines. The study identified a key therapeutic strategy to address the chemoresistance against the MES subtype of GBM. Methods: The CRISPR-Cas9 library screening was used to discover genes associated with TMZ resistance in the U87-KRAS (U87-MG which is overexpressed KRAS-G12C mutant) cells. The patient-derived GBM primary cell line TBD0220 was used for experimental validations in vivo and in vitro. Chromatin isolation by RNA purification (ChIRP) and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays were used to elucidate the silencing mechanism of tumor suppressor genes in the MES-GBM subtype. The small-molecule inhibitor EPIC-0412 was obtained through high-throughput screening. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to characterize the exosomes (Exos) secreted by GBM cells after TMZ treatment. Blood-derived Exos-based targeted delivery of siRNA, TMZ, and EPIC-0412 was optimized to tailor personalized therapy in vivo. Results: Using the genome-wide CRISPR-Cas9 library screening, we found that the ERBIN gene could be epigenetically regulated in the U87-KRAS cells. ERBIN overexpression inhibited the RAS signaling and downstream proliferation and invasion effects of GBM tumor cells. EPIC-0412 treatment inhibited tumor proliferation and EMT progression by upregulating the ERBIN expression both in vitro and in vivo. Genome-wide CRISPR-Cas9 screening also identified RASGRP1(Ras guanine nucleotide-releasing protein 1) and VPS28(Vacuolar protein sorting-associated protein 28) genes as synthetically lethal in response to TMZ treatment in the U87-KRAS cells. We found that RASGRP1 activated the RAS-mediated DDR pathway by promoting the RAS-GTP transformation. VPS28 promoted the Exos secretion and decreased intracellular TMZ concentration in GBM cells. The targeted Exos delivery system encapsulating drugs and siRNAs together showed a powerful therapeutic effect against GBM in vivo. Conclusions: We demonstrate a new mechanism by which ERBIN is epigenetically silenced by the RAS signaling in the MES subtype of GBM. Restoration of the ERBIN expression with EPIC-0412 significantly inhibits the RAS signaling downstream. RASGRP1 and VPS28 genes are associated with the promotion of TMZ resistance through RAS-GDP to RAS-GTP transformation and TMZ efflux, as well. A quadruple combination therapy based on a targeted Exos delivery system demonstrated significantly reduced tumor burden in vivo. Therefore, our study provides new insights and therapeutic approaches for regulating tumor progression and TMZ resistance in the MES-GBM subtype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jixing Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro Injury Neuro-Repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Xiaoteng Cui
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro Injury Neuro-Repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Qi Zhan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro Injury Neuro-Repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Kailiang Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine and Institute of Brain and Brain-Inspired Science, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Dongyuan Su
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro Injury Neuro-Repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Shixue Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro Injury Neuro-Repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Biao Hong
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro Injury Neuro-Repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Qixue Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro Injury Neuro-Repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Jiasheng Ju
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro Injury Neuro-Repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Chunchao Cheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro Injury Neuro-Repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Chen Li
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Chunxiao Wan
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yunfei Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro Injury Neuro-Repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Junhu Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro Injury Neuro-Repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Chunsheng Kang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro Injury Neuro-Repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin 300052, China
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Ahmad F, Sudesh R, Ahmed AT, Arumugam M, Mathkor DM, Haque S. The multifaceted functions of long non-coding RNA HOTAIR in neuropathologies and its potential as a prognostic marker and therapeutic biotarget. Expert Rev Mol Med 2024; 26:e11. [PMID: 38682637 PMCID: PMC11140545 DOI: 10.1017/erm.2024.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are progressively being perceived as prominent molecular agents controlling multiple aspects of neuronal (patho)physiology. Amongst these is the HOX transcript antisense intergenic RNA, often abbreviated as HOTAIR. HOTAIR epigenetically regulates its target genes via its interaction with two different chromatin-modifying agents; histone methyltransferase polycomb-repressive complex 2 and histone demethylase lysine-specific demethylase 1. Parenthetically, HOTAIR elicits trans-acting sponging function against multiple micro-RNA species. Oncological research studies have confirmed the pathogenic functions of HOTAIR in multiple cancer types, such as gliomas and proposed it as a pro-oncological lncRNA. In fact, its expression has been suggested to be a predictor of the severity/grade of gliomas, and as a prognostic biomarker. Moreover, a propound influence of HOTAIR in other aspects of brain heath and disease states is just beginning to be unravelled. The objective of this review is to recapitulate all the relevant data pertaining to the regulatory roles of HOTAIR in neuronal (patho)physiology. To this end, we discuss the pathogenic mechanisms of HOTAIR in multiple neuronal diseases, such as neurodegeneration, traumatic brain injury and neuropsychiatric disorders. Finally, we also summarize the results from the studies incriminating HOTAIR in the pathogeneses of gliomas and other brain cancers. Implications of HOTAIR serving as a suitable therapeutic target in neuropathologies are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faraz Ahmad
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences (SBST), Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632014, India
| | - Ravi Sudesh
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Bio Sciences (SBST), Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632014, India
| | - Atheeq Toufeeq Ahmed
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences (SBST), Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632014, India
| | - Mohanapriya Arumugam
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences (SBST), Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 632014, India
| | - Darin Mansor Mathkor
- Research and Scientific Studies Unit, College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shafiul Haque
- Research and Scientific Studies Unit, College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
- Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon
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6
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Yang E, Hong B, Wang Y, Wang Q, Zhao J, Cui X, Wu Y, Yang S, Su D, Liu X, Kang C. EPIC-0628 abrogates HOTAIR/EZH2 interaction and enhances the temozolomide efficacy via promoting ATF3 expression and inhibiting DNA damage repair in glioblastoma. Cancer Lett 2024; 588:216812. [PMID: 38490327 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
The efficacy of temozolomide (TMZ) treatment in glioblastoma (GBM) is influenced by various mechanisms, mainly including the level of O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) and the activity of DNA damage repair (DDR) pathways. In our previous study, we had proved that long non-coding RNA HOTAIR regulated the GBM progression and mediated DDR by interacting with EZH2, the catalytic subunit of PRC2. In this study, we developed a small-molecule inhibitor called EPIC-0628 that selectively disrupted the HOTAIR-EZH2 interaction and promoted ATF3 expression. The upregulation of ATF3 inhibited the recruitment of p300, p-p65, p-Stat3 and SP1 to the MGMT promoter. Hence, EPIC-0628 silenced MGMT expression. Besides, EPIC-0628 induced cell cycle arrest by increasing the expression of CDKN1A and impaired DNA double-strand break repair via suppressing the ATF3-p38-E2F1 pathway. Lastly, EPIC-0628 enhanced TMZ efficacy in GBM in vitro and vivo. Hence, this study provided evidence for the combination of epigenetic drugs EPIC-0628 with TMZ for GBM treatment through the above mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eryan Yang
- Lab of Neuro- Oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Biao Hong
- Lab of Neuro- Oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Yunfei Wang
- Lab of Neuro- Oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Qixue Wang
- Lab of Neuro- Oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Jixing Zhao
- Lab of Neuro- Oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Xiaoteng Cui
- Lab of Neuro- Oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Ye Wu
- Lab of Neuro- Oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Shixue Yang
- Lab of Neuro- Oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Dongyuan Su
- Lab of Neuro- Oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Xiaomin Liu
- Neuro-Oncology Center, Tianjin Huanhu Hospital, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Chunsheng Kang
- Lab of Neuro- Oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China.
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Ghorbani A, Hosseinie F, Khorshid Sokhangouy S, Islampanah M, Khojasteh-Leylakoohi F, Maftooh M, Nassiri M, Hassanian SM, Ghayour-Mobarhan M, Ferns GA, Khazaei M, Nazari E, Avan A. The prognostic, diagnostic, and therapeutic impact of Long noncoding RNAs in gastric cancer. Cancer Genet 2024; 282-283:14-26. [PMID: 38157692 DOI: 10.1016/j.cancergen.2023.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC), ranking as the third deadliest cancer globally, faces challenges of late diagnosis and limited treatment efficacy. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) emerge as valuable treasured targets for cancer prognosis, diagnosis, and therapy, given their high specificity, convenient non-invasive detection in body fluids, and crucial roles in diverse physiological and pathological processes. Research indicates the significant involvement of lncRNAs in various aspects of GC pathogenesis, including initiation, metastasis, and recurrence, underscoring their potential as novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, as well as therapeutic targets for GC. Despite existing challenges in the clinical application of lncRNAs in GC, the evolving landscape of lncRNA molecular biology holds promise for advancing the survival and treatment outcomes of gastric cancer patients. This review provides insights into recent studies on lncRNAs in gastric cancer, elucidating their molecular mechanisms and exploring the potential clinical applications in GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atousa Ghorbani
- Department of Biology, East Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Hosseinie
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Mashhad Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Saeideh Khorshid Sokhangouy
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Muhammad Islampanah
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Mina Maftooh
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammadreza Nassiri
- Recombinant Proteins Research Group, The Research Institute of Biotechnology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Seyed Mahdi Hassanian
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Basic Sciences Research Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Majid Ghayour-Mobarhan
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Basic Sciences Research Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Gordon A Ferns
- Division of Medical Education, Brighton & Sussex Medical School, Falmer, Brighton, Sussex BN1 9PH, UK
| | - Majid Khazaei
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Basic Sciences Research Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Elham Nazari
- Department of Health Information Technology and Management, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Amir Avan
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Basic Sciences Research Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Medical Genetics Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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8
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Kaur J, Sharma A, Mundlia P, Sood V, Pandey A, Singh G, Barnwal RP. RNA-Small-Molecule Interaction: Challenging the "Undruggable" Tag. J Med Chem 2024. [PMID: 38498010 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
RNA targeting, specifically with small molecules, is a relatively new and rapidly emerging avenue with the promise to expand the target space in the drug discovery field. From being "disregarded" as an "undruggable" messenger molecule to FDA approval of an RNA-targeting small-molecule drug Risdiplam, a radical change in perspective toward RNA has been observed in the past decade. RNAs serve important regulatory functions beyond canonical protein synthesis, and their dysregulation has been reported in many diseases. A deeper understanding of RNA biology reveals that RNA molecules can adopt a variety of structures, carrying defined binding pockets that can accommodate small-molecule drugs. Due to its functional diversity and structural complexity, RNA can be perceived as a prospective target for therapeutic intervention. This perspective highlights the proof of concept of RNA-small-molecule interactions, exemplified by targeting of various transcripts with functional modulators. The advent of RNA-oriented knowledge would help expedite drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaskirat Kaur
- Department of Biophysics, Panjab University, Chandigarh 160014, India
| | - Akanksha Sharma
- Department of Biophysics, Panjab University, Chandigarh 160014, India
- University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh 160014, India
| | - Poonam Mundlia
- Department of Biophysics, Panjab University, Chandigarh 160014, India
| | - Vikas Sood
- Department of Biochemistry, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
| | - Ankur Pandey
- Department of Chemistry, Panjab University, Chandigarh 160014, India
| | - Gurpal Singh
- University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh 160014, India
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9
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Mattoo S, Gupta A, Chauhan M, Agrawal A, Pore SK. Prospects and challenges of noncoding-RNA-mediated inhibition of heat shock protein 90 for cancer therapy. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2024; 1867:195006. [PMID: 38218528 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2024.195006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Heat Shock Protein 90 (HSP90) is a potential drug target for cancer therapy as it is often dysregulated in several cancers, including lung, breast, pancreatic, and prostate cancers. In cancer, HSP90 fails to maintain the structural and functional integrity of its several client proteins which are involved in the hallmarks of cancer such as cell proliferation, invasion, migration, angiogenesis, and apoptosis. Several small molecule inhibitors of HSP90 have been shown to exhibit anticancer effects in vitro and in vivo animal models. However, a few of them are currently under clinical studies. The status and potential limitations of these inhibitors are discussed here. Studies demonstrate that several noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) such as microRNAs (miRNAs) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) regulate HSP90 and its client proteins to modulate cellular processes to exhibit oncogenic or tumor suppressing properties. Over the last decade, miRNAs and lncRNAs have drawn significant interest from the scientific community as therapeutic agents or targets for clinical applications. Here, we discuss the detailed mechanistic regulation of HSP90 and its client proteins by ncRNAs. Moreover, we highlight the significance of these ncRNAs as potential therapeutic agents/targets, and the challenges associated with ncRNA-based therapies. This article aims to provide a holistic view on HSP90-regulating ncRNAs for the development of novel therapeutic strategies to combat cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shria Mattoo
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine & Stem Cell Research, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida 201311, India
| | - Abha Gupta
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine & Stem Cell Research, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida 201311, India
| | - Manvee Chauhan
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine & Stem Cell Research, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida 201311, India
| | - Akshi Agrawal
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida 201311, India
| | - Subrata Kumar Pore
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine & Stem Cell Research, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida 201311, India.
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10
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Heidari-Ezzati S, Moeinian P, Ahmadian-Nejad B, Maghbbouli F, Abbasi S, Zahedi M, Afkhami H, Shadab A, Sajedi N. The role of long non-coding RNAs and circular RNAs in cervical cancer: modulating miRNA function. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1308730. [PMID: 38434620 PMCID: PMC10906305 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1308730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Cervical cancer (CC) is a primary global health concern, ranking as the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death in women. Despite advancements in prognosis, long-term outcomes remained poor. Beyond HPV, cofactors like dietary deficiencies, immunosuppression, hormonal contraceptives, co-infections, and genetic variations are involved in CC progression. The pathogenesis of various diseases, including cancer, has brought to light the critical regulatory roles of microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs). The aberrant expression of these miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs plays a pivotal role in the initiation and progression of CC. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the recent literature regarding the involvement of lncRNAs and circRNAs in modulating miRNA functions in cervical neoplasia and metastasis. Studies have shown that lncRNAs and circRNAs hold great potential as therapeutic agents and innovative biomarkers in CC. However, more clinical research is needed to advance our understanding of the therapeutic benefits of circRNAs and lncRNAs in CC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sama Heidari-Ezzati
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Bonab University of Medical Sciences, Bonab, Iran
| | - Parisa Moeinian
- Department of Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bahar Ahmadian-Nejad
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Tehran Medical Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Sheida Abbasi
- Department of obstetrics and gynecology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahlagha Zahedi
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Hamed Afkhami
- Nervous System Stem Cells Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Shadab
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
- Iran University of Medical Sciences, Deputy of Health, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nayereh Sajedi
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Qom Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Qom, Iran
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11
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Ahmad F, Sudesh R, Ahmed AT, Haque S. Roles of HOTAIR Long Non-coding RNA in Gliomas and Other CNS Disorders. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2024; 44:23. [PMID: 38366205 PMCID: PMC10873238 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-024-01455-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
HOX transcript antisense intergenic RNA (HOTAIR) is a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) which is increasingly being perceived as a tremendous molecular mediator of brain pathophysiology at multiple levels. Epigenetic regulation of target gene expression carried out by HOTAIR is thorough modulation of chromatin modifiers; histone methyltransferase polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) and histone demethylase lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1). Incidentally, HOTAIR was the first lncRNA shown to elicit sponging of specific microRNA (miRNA or miR) species in a trans-acting manner. It has been extensively studied in various cancers, including gliomas and is regarded as a prominent pro-tumorigenic and pro-oncogenic lncRNA. Indeed, the expression of HOTAIR may serve as glioma grade predictor and prognostic biomarker. The objective of this timely review is not only to outline the multifaceted pathogenic roles of HOTAIR in the development and pathophysiology of gliomas and brain cancers, but also to delineate the research findings implicating it as a critical regulator of overall brain pathophysiology. While the major focus is on neuro-oncology, wherein HOTAIR represents a particularly potent underlying pathogenic player and a suitable therapeutic target, mechanisms underlying the regulatory actions of HOTAIR in neurodegeneration, traumatic, hypoxic and ischemic brain injuries, and neuropsychiatric disorders are also presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faraz Ahmad
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences (SBST), Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, 632014, India.
| | - Ravi Sudesh
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Bio Sciences (SBST), Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, 632014, India
| | - A Toufeeq Ahmed
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences (SBST), Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, 632014, India
| | - Shafiul Haque
- Research and Scientific Studies Unit, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, 45142, Saudi Arabia
- Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Beirut, 1102 2801, Lebanon
- Centre of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman, 13306, United Arab Emirates
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12
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Rinaldi S, Moroni E, Rozza R, Magistrato A. Frontiers and Challenges of Computing ncRNAs Biogenesis, Function and Modulation. J Chem Theory Comput 2024; 20:993-1018. [PMID: 38287883 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jctc.3c01239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), generated from nonprotein coding DNA sequences, constitute 98-99% of the human genome. Non-coding RNAs encompass diverse functional classes, including microRNAs, small interfering RNAs, PIWI-interacting RNAs, small nuclear RNAs, small nucleolar RNAs, and long non-coding RNAs. With critical involvement in gene expression and regulation across various biological and physiopathological contexts, such as neuronal disorders, immune responses, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer, non-coding RNAs are emerging as disease biomarkers and therapeutic targets. In this review, after providing an overview of non-coding RNAs' role in cell homeostasis, we illustrate the potential and the challenges of state-of-the-art computational methods exploited to study non-coding RNAs biogenesis, function, and modulation. This can be done by directly targeting them with small molecules or by altering their expression by targeting the cellular engines underlying their biosynthesis. Drawing from applications, also taken from our work, we showcase the significance and role of computer simulations in uncovering fundamental facets of ncRNA mechanisms and modulation. This information may set the basis to advance gene modulation tools and therapeutic strategies to address unmet medical needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Rinaldi
- National Research Council of Italy (CNR) - Institute of Chemistry of OrganoMetallic Compounds (ICCOM), c/o Area di Ricerca CNR di Firenze Via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Moroni
- National Research Council of Italy (CNR) - Institute of Chemical Sciences and Technologies (SCITEC), via Mario Bianco 9, 20131 Milano, Italy
| | - Riccardo Rozza
- National Research Council of Italy (CNR) - Institute of Material Foundry (IOM) c/o International School for Advanced Studies (SISSA), Via Bonomea, 265, 34136 Trieste, Italy
| | - Alessandra Magistrato
- National Research Council of Italy (CNR) - Institute of Material Foundry (IOM) c/o International School for Advanced Studies (SISSA), Via Bonomea, 265, 34136 Trieste, Italy
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13
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Rocca R, Grillone K, Citriniti EL, Gualtieri G, Artese A, Tagliaferri P, Tassone P, Alcaro S. Targeting non-coding RNAs: Perspectives and challenges of in-silico approaches. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 261:115850. [PMID: 37839343 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Rocca
- Department of Health Science, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy; Net4Science srl, Academic Spinoff, Magna Græcia University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Katia Grillone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Græcia University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | | | - Anna Artese
- Department of Health Science, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy; Net4Science srl, Academic Spinoff, Magna Græcia University, Catanzaro, Italy.
| | | | - Pierfrancesco Tassone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Græcia University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Stefano Alcaro
- Department of Health Science, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy; Net4Science srl, Academic Spinoff, Magna Græcia University, Catanzaro, Italy
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14
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Arab I, Park J, Shin JJ, Shin HS, Suk K, Lee WH. Macrophage lncRNAs in cancer development: Long-awaited therapeutic targets. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 218:115890. [PMID: 37884197 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
In the tumor microenvironment, the interplay among macrophages, cancer cells, and endothelial cells is multifaceted. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), which often exhibit an M2 phenotype, contribute to tumor growth and angiogenesis, while cancer cells and endothelial cells reciprocally influence macrophage behavior. This complex interrelationship highlights the importance of targeting these interactions for the development of novel cancer therapies aimed at disrupting tumor progression and angiogenesis. Accumulating evidence underscores the indispensable involvement of lncRNAs in shaping macrophage functionality and contributing to the development of cancer. Animal studies have further validated the therapeutic potential of manipulating macrophage lncRNA activity to ameliorate disease severity and reduce morbidity rates. This review provides a survey of our current understanding of macrophage-associated lncRNAs, with a specific emphasis on their molecular targets and their regulatory impact on cancer progression. These lncRNAs predominantly govern macrophage polarization, favoring the dominance of M2 macrophages or TAMs. Exosomes or extracellular vesicles mediate lncRNA transfer between macrophages and cancer cells, affecting cellular functions of each other. Moreover, this review presents therapeutic strategies targeting cancer-associated lncRNAs. The insights and findings presented in this review pertaining to macrophage lncRNAs can offer valuable information for the development of treatments against cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imene Arab
- School of Life Sciences, BK21 Plus KNU Creative BioResearch Group, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeongkwang Park
- School of Life Sciences, BK21 Plus KNU Creative BioResearch Group, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Joon Shin
- School of Life Sciences, BK21 Plus KNU Creative BioResearch Group, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeung-Seob Shin
- School of Life Sciences, BK21 Plus KNU Creative BioResearch Group, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoungho Suk
- Department of Pharmacology, Brain Science & Engineering Institute, BK21 Plus KNU Biomedical Convergence Program, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
| | - Won-Ha Lee
- School of Life Sciences, BK21 Plus KNU Creative BioResearch Group, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea.
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15
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Hu X, Wang Y, Zhang X, Li C, Zhang X, Yang D, Liu Y, Li L. DNA methylation of HOX genes and its clinical implications in cancer. Exp Mol Pathol 2023; 134:104871. [PMID: 37696326 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexmp.2023.104871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
Homeobox (HOX) genes encode highly conserved transcription factors that play vital roles in embryonic development. DNA methylation is a pivotal regulatory epigenetic signaling mark responsible for regulating gene expression. Abnormal DNA methylation is largely associated with the aberrant expression of HOX genes, which is implicated in a broad range of human diseases, including cancer. Numerous studies have clarified the mechanisms of DNA methylation in both physiological and pathological processes. In this review, we focus on how DNA methylation regulates HOX genes and briefly discuss drug development approaches targeting these mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Hu
- Department of Immunology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan 250117, Shandong, China
| | - Yong Wang
- Shandong Xinchuang Biotechnology Co., LTD, Jinan 250102, Shandong, China; Laboratory of Precision Medicine, Zhangqiu District People's Hospital of Jinan, Jinan 250200, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaoyu Zhang
- Department of Immunology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan 250117, Shandong, China
| | - Chensheng Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Xikun Zhang
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250031, Shandong, China
| | - Dongxia Yang
- Shandong Xinchuang Biotechnology Co., LTD, Jinan 250102, Shandong, China
| | - Yuanyuan Liu
- Shandong Xinchuang Biotechnology Co., LTD, Jinan 250102, Shandong, China
| | - Lianlian Li
- Department of Oncology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250021, Shandong, China; Department of Immunology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan 250117, Shandong, China.
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16
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Xin L, Tan Y, Zhu Y, Cui X, Wang Q, Zhao J, Tian S, Xu C, Xiao M, Hong B, Xu J, Yuan X, Wang C, Kang C, Fang C. EPIC-0307-mediated selective disruption of PRADX-EZH2 interaction and enhancement of temozolomide sensitivity to glioblastoma via inhibiting DNA repair and MGMT. Neuro Oncol 2023; 25:1976-1988. [PMID: 37279651 PMCID: PMC10628965 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/noad102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Temozolomide (TMZ) treatment efficacy in glioblastoma (GBM) has been limited by resistance. The level of O-6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) and intrinsic DNA damage repair factors are important for the TMZ response in patients. Here, we reported a novel compound, called EPIC-0307, that increased TMZ sensitivity by inhibiting specific DNA damage repair proteins and MGMT expression. METHODS EPIC-0307 was derived by molecular docking screening. RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), and chromatin immunoprecipitation by RNA (ChIRP) assays were used to verify the blocking effect. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) assays were performed to explore the mechanism of EPIC-0307. A series of in vivo and in vitro experiments were designed to evaluate the efficacy of EPIC-0307 in sensitizing GBM cells to TMZ. RESULTS EPIC-0307 selectively disrupted the binding of PRADX to EZH2 and upregulated the expression of P21 and PUMA, leading to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in GBM cells. EPIC-0307 exhibited a synergistic inhibitory effect on GBM when combined with TMZ by downregulating TMZ-induced DNA damage repair responses and epigenetically silencing MGMT expression through modulating the recruitment of ATF3-pSTAT3-HDAC1 regulatory complex to the MGMT promoter. EPIC-0307 demonstrated significant efficacy in suppressing the tumorigenesis of GBM cells, restoring TMZ sensitivity. CONCLUSION This study identified a potential small-molecule inhibitor (SMI) EPIC-0307 that selectively disrupted the PRADX-EZH2 interaction to upregulate expressions of tumor suppressor genes, thereby exerting its antitumor effects on GBM cells. EPIC-0307 treatment also increased the chemotherapeutic efficacy of TMZ by epigenetically downregulating DNA repair-associate genes and MGMT expression in GBM cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Xin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding 071000, China
- Clinical Medical College, Hebei University, Baoding 071000, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Glioma, Baoding 071000, China
| | - Yanli Tan
- Department of Pathology, Hebei University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Baoding 071000, China
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding 071000, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Glioma, Baoding 071000, China
| | - Yuanxue Zhu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding 071000, China
| | - Xiaoteng Cui
- Department of Neurosurgery, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro Injury Neuro-Repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Qixue Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro Injury Neuro-Repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Jixing Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro Injury Neuro-Repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Shaohui Tian
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding 071000, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Glioma, Baoding 071000, China
| | - Can Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding 071000, China
- Clinical Medical College, Hebei University, Baoding 071000, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Glioma, Baoding 071000, China
| | - Menglin Xiao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding 071000, China
- Clinical Medical College, Hebei University, Baoding 071000, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Glioma, Baoding 071000, China
| | - Biao Hong
- Department of Neurosurgery, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro Injury Neuro-Repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Jianglong Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding 071000, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Glioma, Baoding 071000, China
| | - Xiaoye Yuan
- Department of Pathology, Hebei University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Baoding 071000, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Glioma, Baoding 071000, China
| | - Changsheng Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding 071000, China
- Clinical Medical College, Hebei University, Baoding 071000, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Glioma, Baoding 071000, China
| | - Chunsheng Kang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro Injury Neuro-Repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Chuan Fang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding 071000, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Glioma, Baoding 071000, China
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17
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Amicone L, Marchetti A, Cicchini C. The lncRNA HOTAIR: a pleiotropic regulator of epithelial cell plasticity. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:147. [PMID: 37308974 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02725-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a trans-differentiation process that endows epithelial cells with mesenchymal properties, including motility and invasion capacity; therefore, its aberrant reactivation in cancerous cells represents a critical step to gain a metastatic phenotype. The EMT is a dynamic program of cell plasticity; many partial EMT states can be, indeed, encountered and the full inverse mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition (MET) appears fundamental to colonize distant secondary sites. The EMT/MET dynamics is granted by a fine modulation of gene expression in response to intrinsic and extrinsic signals. In this complex scenario, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) emerged as critical players. This review specifically focuses on the lncRNA HOTAIR, as a master regulator of epithelial cell plasticity and EMT in tumors. Molecular mechanisms controlling its expression in differentiated as well as trans-differentiated epithelial cells are highlighted here. Moreover, current knowledge about HOTAIR pleiotropic functions in regulation of both gene expression and protein activities are described. Furthermore, the relevance of the specific HOTAIR targeting and the current challenges of exploiting this lncRNA for therapeutic approaches to counteract the EMT are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Amicone
- Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, Rome, 00161, Italy
| | - Alessandra Marchetti
- Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, Rome, 00161, Italy
| | - Carla Cicchini
- Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, Rome, 00161, Italy.
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18
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Gencel-Augusto J, Wu W, Bivona TG. Long Non-Coding RNAs as Emerging Targets in Lung Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3135. [PMID: 37370745 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15123135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) are mRNA-like molecules that do not encode for proteins and that are longer than 200 nucleotides. LncRNAs play important biological roles in normal cell physiology and organism development. Therefore, deregulation of their activities is involved in disease processes such as cancer. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths due to late stage at diagnosis, distant metastasis, and high rates of therapeutic failure. LncRNAs are emerging as important molecules in lung cancer for their oncogenic or tumor-suppressive functions. LncRNAs are highly stable in circulation, presenting an opportunity for use as non-invasive and early-stage cancer diagnostic tools. Here, we summarize the latest works providing in vivo evidence available for lncRNAs role in cancer development, therapy-induced resistance, and their potential as biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis, with a focus on lung cancer. Additionally, we discuss current therapeutic approaches to target lncRNAs. The evidence discussed here strongly suggests that investigation of lncRNAs in lung cancer in addition to protein-coding genes will provide a holistic view of molecular mechanisms of cancer initiation, development, and progression, and could open up a new avenue for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jovanka Gencel-Augusto
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
- UCSF Hellen Diller Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Wei Wu
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
- UCSF Hellen Diller Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Trever G Bivona
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
- UCSF Hellen Diller Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
- Chan-Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
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Wozniak M, Czyz M. lncRNAs-EZH2 interaction as promising therapeutic target in cutaneous melanoma. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1170026. [PMID: 37325482 PMCID: PMC10265524 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1170026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is the most lethal skin cancer with increasing incidence worldwide. Despite a great improvement of diagnostics and treatment of melanoma patients, this disease is still a serious clinical problem. Therefore, novel druggable targets are in focus of research. EZH2 is a component of the PRC2 protein complex that mediates epigenetic silencing of target genes. Several mutations activating EZH2 have been identified in melanoma, which contributes to aberrant gene silencing during tumor progression. Emerging evidence indicates that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are molecular "address codes" for EZH2 silencing specificity, and targeting lncRNAs-EZH2 interaction may slow down the progression of many solid cancers, including melanoma. This review summarizes current knowledge regarding the involvement of lncRNAs in EZH2-mediated gene silencing in melanoma. The possibility of blocking lncRNAs-EZH2 interaction in melanoma as a novel therapeutic option and plausible controversies and drawbacks of this approach are also briefly discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Wozniak
- Department of Molecular Biology of Cancer, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Czyz
- Department of Molecular Biology of Cancer, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
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20
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Zhao J, Yang S, Cui X, Wang Q, Yang E, Tong F, Hong B, Xiao M, Xin L, Xu C, Tan Y, Kang C. A novel compound EPIC-0412 reverses temozolomide resistance via inhibiting DNA repair/MGMT in glioblastoma. Neuro Oncol 2023; 25:857-870. [PMID: 36272139 PMCID: PMC10158139 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/noac242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Temozolomide (TMZ) resistance has become an important obstacle affecting its therapeutic benefits. O6-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) is primarily responsible for the TMZ resistance in Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) patients. In addition, active DNA damage repair pathways can also lead to TMZ resistance. Here, we reported a novel small-molecule inhibitor EPIC-0412 that improved the therapeutic efficacy of TMZ by
inhibiting the DNA damage repair pathway and MGMT in GBM via epigenetic pathways. METHODS The small-molecule compound EPIC-0412 was obtained through high-throughput screening. RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), chromatin isolation by RNA purification (ChIRP), and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays were used to verify the effect of EPIC-0412. Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) was used to elucidate the interactions of transcription factors at the MGMT promoter region. Animal experiments using a mouse model were performed to verify the efficacy of EPIC-0412 in sensitizing GBM cells to TMZ. RESULTS EPIC-0412 physically interrupts the binding of HOTAIR and EZH2, leading to the upregulation of CDKN1A and BBC3, causing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in GBM cells. EPIC-0412 inhibits DNA damage response in GBM cells through the p21-E2F1 DNA damage repair axis. EPIC-0412 epigenetically silences MGMT through its interaction with the ATF3-p-p65-HADC1 axis at the MGMT promoter region. The application of EPIC-0412 restored the TMZ sensitivity in GBM in vivo experiments. CONCLUSION This study discovered a small-molecule inhibitor EPIC-0412, which enhanced the chemotherapeutic effect of TMZ by acting on the p21-E2F1 DNA damage repair axis and ATF3-p-p65-MGMT axis, providing
evidence for combining epigenetic drugs to increase the sensitization toward TMZ in GBM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jixing Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro Injury Neuro-Repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Shixue Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro Injury Neuro-Repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Xiaoteng Cui
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro Injury Neuro-Repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Qixue Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro Injury Neuro-Repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Eryan Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro Injury Neuro-Repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Fei Tong
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro Injury Neuro-Repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Biao Hong
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro Injury Neuro-Repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Menglin Xiao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding 071000, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Glioma, Baoding 071000, China
| | - Lei Xin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding 071000, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Glioma, Baoding 071000, China
| | - Can Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding 071000, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Glioma, Baoding 071000, China
| | - Yanli Tan
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding 071000, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Glioma, Baoding 071000, China
| | - Chunsheng Kang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro Injury Neuro-Repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin 300052, China
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Raju GSR, Pavitra E, Bandaru SS, Varaprasad GL, Nagaraju GP, Malla RR, Huh YS, Han YK. HOTAIR: a potential metastatic, drug-resistant and prognostic regulator of breast cancer. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:65. [PMID: 36997931 PMCID: PMC10061914 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01765-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
HOX transcript antisense intergenic RNA (HOTAIR) is an oncogenic non-coding RNA whose expression is strongly correlated with the tumor grade and prognosis of a variety of carcinomas including breast cancer (BC). HOTAIR regulates various target genes via sponging and epigenetic mechanisms and controls various oncogenic cellular and signaling mechanisms including metastasis and drug resistance. In BC cells, HOTAIR expression is regulated by a variety of transcriptional and epigenetic mechanisms. In this review, we describe the regulatory mechanisms that govern HOTAIR expression during cancer development and explore how HOTAIR drives BC development, metastasis, and drug resistance. In the final section of this review, we focus on the role of HOTAIR in BC management, therapeutic treatment, and prognosis, highlighting its potential therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ganji Seeta Rama Raju
- Department of Energy and Materials Engineering, Dongguk University-Seoul, Seoul, 04620, Republic of Korea
| | - Eluri Pavitra
- NanoBio High-Tech Materials Research Center, Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Inha University, Incheon, 22212, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Ganji Lakshmi Varaprasad
- NanoBio High-Tech Materials Research Center, Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Inha University, Incheon, 22212, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Rama Rao Malla
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Bioinformatics, GIS, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, 530045, India.
| | - Yun Suk Huh
- NanoBio High-Tech Materials Research Center, Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Inha University, Incheon, 22212, Republic of Korea.
| | - Young-Kyu Han
- Department of Energy and Materials Engineering, Dongguk University-Seoul, Seoul, 04620, Republic of Korea.
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22
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Yazdani K, Jordan D, Yang M, Fullenkamp CR, Calabrese DR, Boer R, Hilimire T, Allen TEH, Khan RT, Schneekloth JS. Machine Learning Informs RNA-Binding Chemical Space. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202211358. [PMID: 36584293 PMCID: PMC9992102 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202211358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Small molecule targeting of RNA has emerged as a new frontier in medicinal chemistry, but compared to the protein targeting literature our understanding of chemical matter that binds to RNA is limited. In this study, we reported Repository Of BInders to Nucleic acids (ROBIN), a new library of nucleic acid binders identified by small molecule microarray (SMM) screening. The complete results of 36 individual nucleic acid SMM screens against a library of 24 572 small molecules were reported (including a total of 1 627 072 interactions assayed). A set of 2 003 RNA-binding small molecules was identified, representing the largest fully public, experimentally derived library of its kind to date. Machine learning was used to develop highly predictive and interpretable models to characterize RNA-binding molecules. This work demonstrates that machine learning algorithms applied to experimentally derived sets of RNA binders are a powerful method to inform RNA-targeted chemical space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamyar Yazdani
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702-1201, USA
| | - Deondre Jordan
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702-1201, USA
| | - Mo Yang
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702-1201, USA
| | - Christopher R. Fullenkamp
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702-1201, USA
| | - David R. Calabrese
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702-1201, USA
| | - Robert Boer
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702-1201, USA
| | - Thomas Hilimire
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702-1201, USA
| | | | | | - John S. Schneekloth
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702-1201, USA
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23
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Morishita EC. Discovery of RNA-targeted small molecules through the merging of experimental and computational technologies. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2023; 18:207-226. [PMID: 36322542 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2022.2134852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The field of RNA-targeted small molecules is rapidly evolving, owing to the advances in experimental and computational technologies. With the identification of several bioactive small molecules that target RNA, including the FDA-approved risdiplam, the biopharmaceutical industry is gaining confidence in the field. This review, based on the literature obtained from PubMed, aims to disseminate information about the various technologies developed for targeting RNA with small molecules and propose areas for improvement to develop drugs more efficiently, particularly those linked to diseases with unmet medical needs. AREAS COVERED The technologies for the identification of RNA targets, screening of chemical libraries against RNA, assessing the bioactivity and target engagement of the hit compounds, structure determination, and hit-to-lead optimization are reviewed. Along with the description of the technologies, their strengths, limitations, and examples of how they can impact drug discovery are provided. EXPERT OPINION Many existing technologies employed for protein targets have been repurposed for use in the discovery of RNA-targeted small molecules. In addition, technologies tailored for RNA targets have been developed. Nevertheless, more improvements are necessary, such as artificial intelligence to dissect important RNA structures and RNA-small-molecule interactions and more powerful chemical probing and structure prediction techniques.
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24
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Lightfoot HL, Smith GF. Targeting RNA with small molecules-A safety perspective. Br J Pharmacol 2023. [PMID: 36631428 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA is a major player in cellular function, and consequently can drive a number of disease pathologies. Over the past several years, small molecule-RNA targeting (smRNA targeting) has developed into a promising drug discovery approach. Numerous techniques, tools, and assays have been developed to support this field, and significant investments have been made by pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. To date, the focus has been on identifying disease validated primary targets for smRNA drug development, yet RNA as a secondary (off) target for all small molecule drug programs largely has been unexplored. In this perspective, we discuss structure, target, and mechanism-driven safety aspects of smRNAs and highlight how these parameters can be evaluated in drug discovery programs to produce potentially safer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen L Lightfoot
- Safety and Mechanistic Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Safety Sciences, R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
| | - Graham F Smith
- Data Science and AI, Clinical Pharmacology and Safety Sciences, R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
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25
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Tong F, Zhao JX, Fang ZY, Cui XT, Su DY, Liu X, Zhou JH, Wang GX, Qiu ZJ, Liu SZ, Fu JQ, Kang CS, Wang JC, Wang QX. MUC1 promotes glioblastoma progression and TMZ resistance by stabilizing EGFRvIII. Pharmacol Res 2023; 187:106606. [PMID: 36516884 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Epidermal growth factor receptor variant III (EGFRvIII) is a mutant isoform of EGFR with a deletion of exons 2-7 making it insensitive to EGF stimulation and downstream signal constitutive activation. However, the mechanism underlying the stability of EGFRvIII remains unclear. Based on CRISPR-Cas9 library screening, we found that mucin1 (MUC1) is essential for EGFRvIII glioma cell survival and temozolomide (TMZ) resistance. We revealed that MUC1-C was upregulated in EGFRvIII-positive cells, where it enhanced the stability of EGFRvIII. Knockdown of MUC1-C increased the colocalization of EGFRvIII and lysosomes. Upregulation of MUC1 occurred in an NF-κB dependent manner, and inhibition of the NF-κB pathway could interrupt the EGFRvIII-MUC1 feedback loop by inhibiting MUC1-C. In a previous report, we identified AC1Q3QWB (AQB), a small molecule that could inhibit the phosphorylation of NF-κB. By screening the structural analogs of AQB, we obtained EPIC-1027, which could inhibit the NF-κB pathway more effectively. EPIC-1027 disrupted the EGFRvIII-MUC1-C positive feedback loop in vitro and in vivo, inhibited glioma progression, and promoted sensitization to TMZ. In conclusion, we revealed the pivotal role of MUC1-C in stabilizing EGFRvIII in glioblastoma (GBM) and identified a small molecule, EPIC-1027, with great potential in GBM treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Tong
- Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China; Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma, Variation, and Regeneration, Ministry of Education and Tianjin Municipal Government, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Ji-Xing Zhao
- Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China; Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma, Variation, and Regeneration, Ministry of Education and Tianjin Municipal Government, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Zi-Yuan Fang
- Clinical Medical College, Hebei University, Baoding 071000, China
| | - Xiao-Teng Cui
- Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China; Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma, Variation, and Regeneration, Ministry of Education and Tianjin Municipal Government, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Dong-Yuan Su
- Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China; Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma, Variation, and Regeneration, Ministry of Education and Tianjin Municipal Government, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Xing Liu
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Jun-Hu Zhou
- Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China; Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma, Variation, and Regeneration, Ministry of Education and Tianjin Municipal Government, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Guang-Xiu Wang
- Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China; Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma, Variation, and Regeneration, Ministry of Education and Tianjin Municipal Government, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Zhi-Jun Qiu
- Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Shi-Zhong Liu
- Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Jun-Qi Fu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Haikou Affiliated Hospital of Xiangya Medical College, Central South University, Hainan 570311, China; Department of Neurosurgery, Haikou People's Hospital, Hainan 570208, China
| | - Chun-Sheng Kang
- Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China; Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma, Variation, and Regeneration, Ministry of Education and Tianjin Municipal Government, Tianjin 300052, China.
| | - Jia-Chong Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Haikou Affiliated Hospital of Xiangya Medical College, Central South University, Hainan 570311, China; Department of Neurosurgery, Haikou People's Hospital, Hainan 570208, China.
| | - Qi-Xue Wang
- Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China; Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Neurotrauma, Variation, and Regeneration, Ministry of Education and Tianjin Municipal Government, Tianjin 300052, China.
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Yang Z, Xu F, Teschendorff AE, Zhao Y, Yao L, Li J, He Y. Insights into the role of long non-coding RNAs in DNA methylation mediated transcriptional regulation. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:1067406. [PMID: 36533073 PMCID: PMC9755597 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.1067406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA methylation is one of the most important epigenetic mechanisms that governing regulation of gene expression, aberrant DNA methylation patterns are strongly associated with human malignancies. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have being discovered as a significant regulator on gene expression at the epigenetic level. Emerging evidences have indicated the intricate regulatory effects between lncRNAs and DNA methylation. On one hand, transcription of lncRNAs are controlled by the promoter methylation, which is similar to protein coding genes, on the other hand, lncRNA could interact with enzymes involved in DNA methylation to affect the methylation pattern of downstream genes, thus regulating their expression. In addition, circular RNAs (circRNAs) being an important class of noncoding RNA are also found to participate in this complex regulatory network. In this review, we summarize recent research progress on this crosstalk between lncRNA, circRNA, and DNA methylation as well as their potential functions in complex diseases including cancer. This work reveals a hidden layer for gene transcriptional regulation and enhances our understanding for epigenetics regarding detailed mechanisms on lncRNA regulatory function in human cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Yang
- Center for Medical Research and Innovation of Pudong Hospital, The Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Co-Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng Xu
- Center for Medical Research and Innovation of Pudong Hospital, The Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Co-Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Andrew E. Teschendorff
- CAS Key Laboratory of Computational Biology, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Zhao
- Institute of Computing Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Yao
- Experiment Medicine Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Jian Li
- Center for Medical Research and Innovation of Pudong Hospital, The Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Co-Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yungang He
- Center for Medical Research and Innovation of Pudong Hospital, The Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Co-Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Fifth People’s Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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27
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Reactive Oxygen Species and Long Non-Coding RNAs, an Unexpected Crossroad in Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231710133. [PMID: 36077530 PMCID: PMC9456385 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231710133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA) have recently been identified as key regulators of oxidative stress in several malignancies. The level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) must be constantly regulated to maintain cancer cell proliferation and chemoresistance and to prevent apoptosis. This review will discuss how lncRNAs alter the ROS level in cancer cells. We will first describe the role of lncRNAs in the nuclear factor like 2 (Nrf-2) coordinated antioxidant response of cancer cells. Secondly, we show how lncRNAs can promote the Warburg effect in cancer cells, thus shifting the cancer cell’s “building blocks” towards molecules important in oxidative stress regulation. Lastly, we explain the role that lncRNAs play in ROS-induced cancer cell apoptosis and proliferation.
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Donlic A, Swanson EG, Chiu LY, Wicks SL, Umuhire Juru A, Cai Z, Kassam K, Laudeman C, Sanaba BG, Sugarman A, Han E, Tolbert BS, Hargrove AE. R-BIND 2.0: An Updated Database of Bioactive RNA-Targeting Small Molecules and Associated RNA Secondary Structures. ACS Chem Biol 2022; 17:1556-1566. [PMID: 35594415 PMCID: PMC9343015 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.2c00224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Discoveries of RNA roles in cellular physiology and pathology are increasing the need for new tools that modulate the structure and function of these biomolecules, and small molecules are proving useful. In 2017, we curated the RNA-targeted BIoactive ligaNd Database (R-BIND) and discovered distinguishing physicochemical properties of RNA-targeting ligands, leading us to propose the existence of an "RNA-privileged" chemical space. Biennial updates of the database and the establishment of a website platform (rbind.chem.duke.edu) have provided new insights and tools to design small molecules based on the analyzed physicochemical and spatial properties. In this report and R-BIND 2.0 update, we refined the curation approach and ligand classification system as well as conducted analyses of RNA structure elements for the first time to identify new targeting strategies. Specifically, we curated and analyzed RNA target structural motifs to determine the properties of small molecules that may confer selectivity for distinct RNA secondary and tertiary structures. Additionally, we collected sequences of target structures and incorporated an RNA structure search algorithm into the website that outputs small molecules targeting similar motifs without a priori secondary structure knowledge. Cheminformatic analyses revealed that, despite the 50% increase in small molecule library size, the distinguishing properties of R-BIND ligands remained significantly different from that of proteins and are therefore still relevant to RNA-targeted probe discovery. Combined, we expect these novel insights and website features to enable the rational design of RNA-targeted ligands and to serve as a resource and inspiration for a variety of scientists interested in RNA targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Liang-Yuan Chiu
- Department of Chemistry, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 441106, United States
| | - Sarah L. Wicks
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27705, United States
| | - Aline Umuhire Juru
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27705, United States
| | - Zhengguo Cai
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27705, United States
| | - Kamillah Kassam
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27705, United States
| | - Chris Laudeman
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27705, United States
| | - Bilva G. Sanaba
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27705, United States
| | - Andrew Sugarman
- Department of Chemistry, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 441106, United States
| | - Eunseong Han
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27705, United States
| | - Blanton S. Tolbert
- Department of Chemistry, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 441106, United States
| | - Amanda E. Hargrove
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27705, United States
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Fatema K, Larson Z, Barrott J. Navigating the genomic instability mine field of osteosarcoma to better understand implications of non-coding RNAs. BIOCELL 2022; 46:2177-2193. [PMID: 35755302 PMCID: PMC9224338 DOI: 10.32604/biocell.2022.020141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Osteosarcoma is one of the most genomically complex cancers and as result, it has been difficult to assign genomic aberrations that contribute to disease progression and patient outcome consistently across samples. One potential source for correlating osteosarcoma and genomic biomarkers is within the non-coding regions of RNA that are differentially expressed. However, it is unsurprising that a cancer classification that is fraught with genomic instability is likely to have numerous studies correlating non-coding RNA expression and function have been published on the subject. This review undertakes the formidable task of evaluating the published literature of noncoding RNAs in osteosarcoma. This is not the first review on this topic and will certainly not be the last. The review is organized with an introduction into osteosarcoma and the epigenetic control of gene expression before reviewing the molecular function and expression of long non-coding RNAs, circular RNAs, and short non-coding RNAs such as microRNAs, piwi RNAs, and short-interfering RNAs. The review concludes with a review of the literature and how the biology of non-coding RNAs can be used therapeutically to treat cancers, especially osteosarcoma. We conclude that non-coding RNA expression and function in osteosarcoma is equally complex to understanding the expression differences and function of coding RNA and proteins; however, with the added lens of both coding and non-coding genomic sequence, researchers can begin to identify the patterns that consistently associate with aggressive osteosarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaniz Fatema
- Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Science, Idaho State University, Pocatello, 83209, USA
| | - Zachary Larson
- Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Science, Idaho State University, Pocatello, 83209, USA
| | - Jared Barrott
- Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Science, Idaho State University, Pocatello, 83209, USA
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30
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Shedding light on the dark genome: drugging long non-coding RNA. FUTURE DRUG DISCOVERY 2022. [DOI: 10.4155/fdd-2022-0009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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31
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Chen L, Xie Y, Yu M, Gou Q. Long Noncoding RNAs in Lung Cancer: From Disease Markers to Treatment Roles. Cancer Manag Res 2022; 14:1771-1782. [PMID: 35634537 PMCID: PMC9132104 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s365762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
There is an urgent need to identify reliable biomarkers that can be used in early diagnosis, prognostication prediction and as possible therapeutic targets for lung cancer due to its current poor prognosis. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have recently attracted additional attention due to their potential role in carcinogenesis, invasion and metastasis. Issues involved in the biofunctions and regulatory mechanisms of oncogenic and tumor-suppressive lncRNAs in lung cancer are discussed. Some lncRNAs have shown good diagnostic value, especially in combination with conventional serum protein markers. The use of antisense oligonucleotides, small molecules and RNA interference techniques have shown promise as direct therapeutic tools for targeting lncRNAs in preclinical studies. The biomarker function of lncRNAs may also indirectly involved in tumor therapy as a reference to conventional therapy. Overall, the concept of using lncRNAs as biomarkers for prognostication and intervention in lung cancer is still in its infancy, and only with more in-depth studies could they have a significant impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Chen
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuxin Xie
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, People’s Republic of China
- Laboratory of Molecular Diagnosis of Cancer, Clinical Research Center for Breast, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Min Yu
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qiheng Gou
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Qiheng Gou, Department of Head and Neck Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 37 Guoxue Xiang, Wuhou District, Chengdu, 610041, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86-28-85423278, Email
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Taylor-Papadimitriou J, Burchell JM. Histone Methylases and Demethylases Regulating Antagonistic Methyl Marks: Changes Occurring in Cancer. Cells 2022; 11:1113. [PMID: 35406676 PMCID: PMC8997813 DOI: 10.3390/cells11071113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic regulation of gene expression is crucial to the determination of cell fate in development and differentiation, and the Polycomb (PcG) and Trithorax (TrxG) groups of proteins, acting antagonistically as complexes, play a major role in this regulation. Although originally identified in Drosophila, these complexes are conserved in evolution and the components are well defined in mammals. Each complex contains a protein with methylase activity (KMT), which can add methyl groups to a specific lysine in histone tails, histone 3 lysine 27 (H3K27), by PcG complexes, and H3K4 and H3K36 by TrxG complexes, creating transcriptionally repressive or active marks, respectively. Histone demethylases (KDMs), identified later, added a new dimension to histone methylation, and mutations or changes in levels of expression are seen in both methylases and demethylases and in components of the PcG and TrX complexes across a range of cancers. In this review, we focus on both methylases and demethylases governing the methylation state of the suppressive and active marks and consider their action and interaction in normal tissues and in cancer. A picture is emerging which indicates that the changes which occur in cancer during methylation of histone lysines can lead to repression of genes, including tumour suppressor genes, or to the activation of oncogenes. Methylases or demethylases, which are themselves tumour suppressors, are highly mutated. Novel targets for cancer therapy have been identified and a methylase (KMT6A/EZH2), which produces the repressive H3K27me3 mark, and a demethylase (KDM1A/LSD1), which demethylates the active H3K4me2 mark, are now under clinical evaluation.
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LncRNA-mediated DNA methylation: an emerging mechanism in cancer and beyond. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2022; 41:100. [PMID: 35292092 PMCID: PMC8922926 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-022-02319-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA methylation is one of the most important epigenetic mechanisms to regulate gene expression, which is highly dynamic during development and specifically maintained in somatic cells. Aberrant DNA methylation patterns are strongly associated with human diseases including cancer. How are the cell-specific DNA methylation patterns established or disturbed is a pivotal question in developmental biology and cancer epigenetics. Currently, compelling evidence has emerged that long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) mediates DNA methylation in both physiological and pathological conditions. In this review, we provide an overview of the current understanding of lncRNA-mediated DNA methylation, with emphasis on the roles of this mechanism in cancer, which to the best of our knowledge, has not been systematically summarized. In addition, we also discuss the potential clinical applications of this mechanism in RNA-targeting drug development.
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Zhao R, Fu J, Zhu L, Chen Y, Liu B. Designing strategies of small-molecule compounds for modulating non-coding RNAs in cancer therapy. J Hematol Oncol 2022; 15:14. [PMID: 35123522 PMCID: PMC8817562 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-022-01230-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have been defined as a class of RNA molecules transcribed from the genome but not encoding proteins, such as microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, Circular RNAs, and Piwi-interacting RNAs. Accumulating evidence has recently been revealing that ncRNAs become potential druggable targets for regulation of several small-molecule compounds, based on their complex spatial structures and biological functions in cancer therapy. Thus, in this review, we focus on summarizing some new emerging designing strategies, such as high-throughput screening approach, small-molecule microarray approach, structure-based designing approach, phenotypic screening approach, fragment-based designing approach, and pharmacological validation approach. Based on the above-mentioned approaches, a series of representative small-molecule compounds, including Bisphenol-A, Mitoxantrone and Enoxacin have been demonstrated to modulate or selectively target ncRNAs in different types of human cancers. Collectively, these inspiring findings would provide a clue on developing more novel avenues for pharmacological modulations of ncRNAs with small-molecule drugs for future cancer therapeutics.
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Chen Q, Li Y, Lin C, Chen L, Luo H, Xia S, Liu C, Cheng X, Liu C, Li J, Dou D. OUP accepted manuscript. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:e67. [PMID: 35288754 PMCID: PMC9262588 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA-encoded library (DEL) technology is a powerful tool for small molecule identification in drug discovery, yet the reported DEL selection strategies were applied primarily on protein targets in either purified form or in cellular context. To expand the application of this technology, we employed DEL selection on an RNA target HIV-1 TAR (trans-acting responsive region), but found that the majority of signals were resulted from false positive DNA–RNA binding. We thus developed an optimized selection strategy utilizing RNA patches and competitive elution to minimize unwanted DNA binding, followed by k-mer analysis and motif search to differentiate false positive signal. This optimized strategy resulted in a very clean background in a DEL selection against Escherichia coli FMN Riboswitch, and the enriched compounds were determined with double digit nanomolar binding affinity, as well as similar potency in functional FMN competition assay. These results demonstrated the feasibility of small molecule identification against RNA targets using DEL selection. The developed experimental and computational strategy provided a promising opportunity for RNA ligand screening and expanded the application of DEL selection to a much wider context in drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Liu Chen
- HitGen Inc., Shuangliu District, Chengdu, China
| | - Hao Luo
- HitGen Inc., Shuangliu District, Chengdu, China
| | - Shuai Xia
- HitGen Inc., Shuangliu District, Chengdu, China
| | - Chuan Liu
- HitGen Inc., Shuangliu District, Chengdu, China
| | | | | | - Jin Li
- HitGen Inc., Shuangliu District, Chengdu, China
| | - Dengfeng Dou
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel: +86 28 85197385 8700;
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Chen S, Deng X, Sheng H, Rong Y, Zheng Y, Zhang Y, Lin J. Noncoding RNAs in pediatric brain tumors: Molecular functions and pathological implications. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2021; 26:417-431. [PMID: 34552822 PMCID: PMC8426460 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2021.07.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Brain tumors are common solid pediatric malignancies and the main reason for cancer-related death in the pediatric setting. Recently, evidence has revealed that noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs), long ncRNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), play a critical role in brain tumor development and progression. Therefore, in this review article, we describe the functions and molecular mechanisms of ncRNAs in multiple types of cancer, including medulloblastoma, pilocytic astrocytoma, ependymoma, atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor, glioblastoma, diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma, and craniopharyngioma. We also mention the limitations of using ncRNAs as therapeutic targets because of the nonspecificity of ncRNA targets and the delivery methods of ncRNAs. Due to the critical role of ncRNAs in brain oncogenesis, targeting aberrantly expressed ncRNAs might be an effective strategy to improve the outcomes of pediatric patients with brain tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaohuai Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiangyang Deng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Hansong Sheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yuxi Rong
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yanhao Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yusong Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jian Lin
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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Liguori G, Cerrone M, De Chiara A, Tafuto S, de Bellis MT, Botti G, Di Bonito M, Cantile M. The Role of lncRNAs in Rare Tumors with a Focus on HOX Transcript Antisense RNA ( HOTAIR). Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221810160. [PMID: 34576322 PMCID: PMC8466298 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221810160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Rare cancers are identified as those with an annual incidence of fewer than 6 per 100,000 persons and includes both epithelial and stromal tumors from different anatomical areas. The advancement of analytical methods has produced an accurate molecular characterization of most human cancers, suggesting a “molecular classification” that has allowed the establishment of increasingly personalized therapeutic strategies. However, the limited availability of rare cancer samples has resulted in very few therapeutic options for these tumors, often leading to poor prognosis. Long non coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNAs mostly involved in tumor progression and drug response. In particular, the lncRNA HOX transcript antisense RNA (HOTAIR) represents an emergent diagnostic, prognostic and predictive biomarker in many human cancers. The aim of this review is to highlight the role of HOTAIR in rare cancers, proposing it as a new biomarker usable in the management of these tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina Liguori
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-Irccs-Fondazione G. Pascale, 80131 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (M.C.); (A.D.C.); (G.B.); (M.D.B.)
| | - Margherita Cerrone
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-Irccs-Fondazione G. Pascale, 80131 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (M.C.); (A.D.C.); (G.B.); (M.D.B.)
| | - Annarosaria De Chiara
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-Irccs-Fondazione G. Pascale, 80131 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (M.C.); (A.D.C.); (G.B.); (M.D.B.)
| | - Salvatore Tafuto
- Sarcomas and Rare Tumors Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-Irccs-Fondazione G. Pascale, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Maura Tracey de Bellis
- Rehabilitation Medicine Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-Irccs-Fondazione G. Pascale, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Gerardo Botti
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-Irccs-Fondazione G. Pascale, 80131 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (M.C.); (A.D.C.); (G.B.); (M.D.B.)
| | - Maurizio Di Bonito
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-Irccs-Fondazione G. Pascale, 80131 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (M.C.); (A.D.C.); (G.B.); (M.D.B.)
| | - Monica Cantile
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-Irccs-Fondazione G. Pascale, 80131 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (M.C.); (A.D.C.); (G.B.); (M.D.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-08159031755; Fax: +39-0815903718
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Lu Q, Lou J, Cai R, Han W, Pan H. Emerging roles of a pivotal lncRNA SBF2-AS1 in cancers. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:417. [PMID: 34372871 PMCID: PMC8351094 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-02123-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs refer to transcripts over 200 nt in length that lack the ability to encode proteins, which occupy the majority of the genome and play a crucial role in the occurrence and development of human diseases, especially cancers. SBF2-AS1, a newly identified long non-coding RNA, has been verified to be highly expressed in diversiform cancers, and is involved in processes promoting tumorigenesis, tumor progression and tumor metastasis. Moreover, upregulation of SBF2-AS1 expression was significantly related to disadvantageous clinicopathologic characteristics and indicated poor prognosis. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the up-to-date knowledge of the detailed mechanisms and underlying functions of SBF2-AS1 in diverse cancer types, highlighting the potential of SBF2-AS1 as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker and even a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Lu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jun Lou
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ruyun Cai
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weidong Han
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Hongming Pan
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
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Zhou Y, Wang Y, Lin M, Wu D, Zhao M. LncRNA HOTAIR promotes proliferation and inhibits apoptosis by sponging miR-214-3p in HPV16 positive cervical cancer cells. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:400. [PMID: 34320988 PMCID: PMC8317292 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-02103-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cervical cancer (CC) is one of the most common gynaecological malignancies all around the world. The mechanisms of cervical carcinoma formation remain under close scrutiny. The long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA) and microRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in controlling gene expression and promoting the development and progression of cervical cancer by acting as competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA). However, the roles of lncRNA associated with ceRNAs in cervical carcinogenesis remains unknown. In this study, the expression of long non-coding RNA HOTAIR was investigated in HPV16 positive cervical cancer cells, the candidate miRNAs and target genes were identified to clarify putative ceRNAs of HOTAIR/miRNA in cervical cancer cells. Methods The proliferation ability of cells was measured by CCK8 and EdU incorporation assays and cell apoptosis was analyzed by flow cytometry. The expression of HOTAIR, miR-214-3p, HPV16 E7 mRNA were detected by qRT-PCR. As for searching for the interaction between miR-214-3p and HOTAIR, the binding sites for miR-214-3p on HOTAIR was predicted by starbase v2.0 database, then dual-luciferase assay was used to verify the binding sites. In addition, Gene Ontology (GO) and protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis of target genes of miR-214-3p were performed with bioinformatics analysis. The potential signal pathway regulated by HOTAIR/miR-214-3p was predicted by KEGG enrichment analysis and confirmed by qPCR and WB analysis in cervical cancer cells. Results Our results showed that expression of HOTAIR was up-regulated, while that of miR-214-3p was down-regulated in HPV16-positive cervical cancer cells. The expression status of HPV16 E7 played an important role in regulating expression of HOTAIR or miR-214-3p in cervical cancer cells. HOTAIR knockdown could significantly inhibited cell proliferate ability and promote cellular apoptosis, whereas the inhibition of miR-214-3p expression partially reversed such results. Bioinformatics analysis identified 1451 genes as target genes of miR-214-3p. The Gene ontology (GO) and KEGG Pathway enrichment analysis showed that these target genes were mainly related to regulation of cell communication, protein binding, enzyme binding and transferase activity, and Wnt ligand biogenesis. Pathway enrichment analysis results showed that the predicted target genes were significantly enriched in Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Finally, our results confirmed that miR-214-3p could significantly inhibit β-catenin expression in HPV16 positive cancer cells by qPCR and WB analysis. Conclusion HOTAIR could act as a ceRNA through binding to miR-214-3p, promote cell proliferation and inhibit the apoptosis of HPV16 positive cervical cancer. HOTAIR/miR-214-3p/Wnt/β-catenin signal pathway might played important regulated roles in HPV16 positive cervical cancer. Our results provided new insight into defining novel biomarkers for cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhou
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuqing Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingying Lin
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, People's Republic of China
| | - Daiqian Wu
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Zhao
- Demonstration Center for Experimental Basic Medicine Education, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, People's Republic of China.
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Policarpo R, Sierksma A, De Strooper B, d'Ydewalle C. From Junk to Function: LncRNAs in CNS Health and Disease. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:714768. [PMID: 34349622 PMCID: PMC8327212 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.714768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in RNA sequencing technologies helped to uncover the existence of tens of thousands of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) that arise from the dark matter of the genome. These lncRNAs were originally thought to be transcriptional noise but an increasing number of studies demonstrate that these transcripts can modulate protein-coding gene expression by a wide variety of transcriptional and post-transcriptional mechanisms. The spatiotemporal regulation of lncRNA expression is particularly evident in the central nervous system, suggesting that they may directly contribute to specific brain processes, including neurogenesis and cellular homeostasis. Not surprisingly, lncRNAs are therefore gaining attention as putative novel therapeutic targets for disorders of the brain. In this review, we summarize the recent insights into the functions of lncRNAs in the brain, their role in neuronal maintenance, and their potential contribution to disease. We conclude this review by postulating how these RNA molecules can be targeted for the treatment of yet incurable neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafaela Policarpo
- VIB-KU Leuven Center For Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium.,Laboratory for the Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Neuroscience Discovery, Janssen Research & Development, Janssen Pharmaceutica N.V., Beerse, Belgium
| | - Annerieke Sierksma
- VIB-KU Leuven Center For Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium.,Laboratory for the Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bart De Strooper
- VIB-KU Leuven Center For Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium.,Laboratory for the Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,UK Dementia Research Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Constantin d'Ydewalle
- Neuroscience Discovery, Janssen Research & Development, Janssen Pharmaceutica N.V., Beerse, Belgium
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Kovalenko TF, Larionova TD, Antipova NV, Shakhparonov MI, Pavlyukov MS. The Role of Non-coding RNAs in the Pathogenesis of Glial Tumors. Acta Naturae 2021; 13:38-51. [PMID: 34707896 PMCID: PMC8526181 DOI: 10.32607/actanaturae.11270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the many malignant neoplasms, glioblastoma (GBM) leads to one of the worst prognosis for patients and has an almost 100% recurrence rate. The only chemotherapeutic drug that is widely used for treating glioblastoma is temozolomide, a DNA alkylating agent. Its impact, however, is only minor; it increases patients' survival just by 12 to 14 months. Multiple highly selective compounds that affect specific proteins and have performed well in other types of cancer have proved ineffective against glioblastoma. Hence, there is an urgent need for novel methods that could help achieve the long-awaited progress in glioblastoma treatment. One of the potentially promising approaches is the targeting of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). These molecules are characterized by extremely high multifunctionality and often act as integrators by coordinating multiple key signaling pathways within the cell. Thus, the impact on ncRNAs has the potential to lead to a broader and stronger impact on cells, as opposed to the more focused action of inhibitors targeting specific proteins. In this review, we summarize the functions of long noncoding RNAs, circular RNAs, as well as microRNAs, PIWI-interacting RNAs, small nuclear and small nucleolar RNAs. We provide a classification of these transcripts and describe their role in various signaling pathways and physiological processes. We also provide examples of oncogenic and tumor suppressor ncRNAs belonging to each of these classes in the context of their involvement in the pathogenesis of gliomas and glioblastomas. In conclusion, we considered the potential use of ncRNAs as diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets for the treatment of glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- T. F. Kovalenko
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 117997 Russia
| | - T. D. Larionova
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 117997 Russia
| | - N. V. Antipova
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 117997 Russia
| | - M. I. Shakhparonov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 117997 Russia
| | - M. S. Pavlyukov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 117997 Russia
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Di Mauro A, Scognamiglio G, Aquino G, Cerrone M, Liguori G, Clemente O, Di Bonito M, Cantile M, Botti G, Tafuto S, Tatangelo F. Aberrant Expression of Long Non Coding RNA HOTAIR and De-Regulation of the Paralogous 13 HOX Genes Are Strongly Associated with Aggressive Behavior of Gastro-Entero-Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22137049. [PMID: 34208964 PMCID: PMC8268982 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22137049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastro-entero-pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (GEP-NENs) are rare diseases occurring in the gastrointestinal tract and pancreas. They are characterized by the loss of epithelial tubular gland elements, and by the increased expression of neuroendocrine markers. GEP-NENs are subdivided into two histo-pathological types, gastro-entero-pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs) and gastro-entero-pancreatic neuroendocrine carcinomas (GEP-NECs). According to WHO 2017 and 2019 classification criteria are graded and staged in four categories, NET-G1, NET-G2, NET-G3, and NEC-G3. The molecular characterization of these tumors can be fundamental for the identification of new diagnostic, prognostic and predictive biomarkers. The main purpose of this study was to analyze the expression of the paralogous 13 HOX genes, normally involved in embryogenic development and frequently deregulated in human cancers, and of the HOX regulating lncRNA HOTAIR in GEP-NENs. The expression of HOX genes is gradually lost in the transition from GEP NET G1 to NET/NEC G3 tumors, while HOTAIR expression, inversely correlated with HOX genes expression and weakly expressed in low-grade GEP NENs, becomes aberrant in NET G3 and NEC G3 categories. Our data highlights their potential role in the molecular stratification of GEP-NENs by suggesting new prognostic markers and potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annabella Di Mauro
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori Fondazione “G. Pascale”, Via Mariano Semmola, 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.D.M.); (G.S.); (G.A.); (M.C.); (G.L.); (M.D.B.); (F.T.)
| | - Giosuè Scognamiglio
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori Fondazione “G. Pascale”, Via Mariano Semmola, 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.D.M.); (G.S.); (G.A.); (M.C.); (G.L.); (M.D.B.); (F.T.)
| | - Gabriella Aquino
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori Fondazione “G. Pascale”, Via Mariano Semmola, 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.D.M.); (G.S.); (G.A.); (M.C.); (G.L.); (M.D.B.); (F.T.)
| | - Margherita Cerrone
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori Fondazione “G. Pascale”, Via Mariano Semmola, 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.D.M.); (G.S.); (G.A.); (M.C.); (G.L.); (M.D.B.); (F.T.)
| | - Giuseppina Liguori
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori Fondazione “G. Pascale”, Via Mariano Semmola, 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.D.M.); (G.S.); (G.A.); (M.C.); (G.L.); (M.D.B.); (F.T.)
| | - Ottavia Clemente
- Sarcomas and Rare Tumors Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-IRCCS-Fondazione G. Pascale, Via Mariano Semmola, 80131 Naples, Italy; (O.C.); (S.T.)
| | - Maurizio Di Bonito
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori Fondazione “G. Pascale”, Via Mariano Semmola, 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.D.M.); (G.S.); (G.A.); (M.C.); (G.L.); (M.D.B.); (F.T.)
| | - Monica Cantile
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori Fondazione “G. Pascale”, Via Mariano Semmola, 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.D.M.); (G.S.); (G.A.); (M.C.); (G.L.); (M.D.B.); (F.T.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0815903471; Fax: +39-0815903718
| | - Gerardo Botti
- Scientific Direction, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-IRCCS-Fondazione G. Pascale, Via Mariano Semmola, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Salvatore Tafuto
- Sarcomas and Rare Tumors Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-IRCCS-Fondazione G. Pascale, Via Mariano Semmola, 80131 Naples, Italy; (O.C.); (S.T.)
| | - Fabiana Tatangelo
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori Fondazione “G. Pascale”, Via Mariano Semmola, 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.D.M.); (G.S.); (G.A.); (M.C.); (G.L.); (M.D.B.); (F.T.)
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Abstract
RNAs are involved in an enormous range of cellular processes, including gene regulation, protein synthesis, and cell differentiation, and dysfunctional RNAs are associated with disorders such as cancers, neurodegenerative diseases, and viral infections. Thus, the identification of compounds with the ability to bind RNAs and modulate their functions is an exciting approach for developing next-generation therapies. Numerous RNA-binding agents have been reported over the past decade, but the design of synthetic molecules with selectivity for specific RNA sequences is still in its infancy. In this perspective, we highlight recent advances in targeting RNAs with synthetic molecules, and we discuss the potential value of this approach for the development of innovative therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farzad Zamani
- The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research, Osaka University, Mihogaoka 8-1, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0047, Japan
| | - Takayoshi Suzuki
- The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research, Osaka University, Mihogaoka 8-1, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0047, Japan
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Shi Y, Huang Q, Kong X, Zhao R, Chen X, Zhai Y, Xiong L. Current Knowledge of Long Non-Coding RNA HOTAIR in Breast Cancer Progression and Its Application. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11060483. [PMID: 34073224 PMCID: PMC8230351 DOI: 10.3390/life11060483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is one of the most devastating cancers with high morbidity and mortality in females worldwide. Breast tumorigenesis and further development present great uncertainty and complexity, and efficient therapeutic approaches still lack. Accumulating evidence indicates HOX transcript antisense intergenic RNA (HOTAIR) is dysregulated in cancers and has emerged as a novel hotspot in the field. In breast cancer, aberrant HOTAIR expression is responsible for advanced tumor progression by regulating multifarious signaling pathways. Besides, HOTAIR may act as competitive endogenous RNA to bind to several microRNAs and suppress their expressions, which can subsequently upregulate the levels of targeted downstream messenger RNAs, thereby leading to further cancer progression. In addition, HOTAIR works as a promising biomarker and predictor for breast cancer patients’ diagnosis or outcome prediction. Recently, HOTAIR is potentially considered to be a drug target. Here, we have summarized the induction of HOTAIR in breast cancer and its impacts on cell proliferation, migration, apoptosis, and therapeutic resistance, as well as elucidating the underlying mechanisms. This review aims to provide new insights into investigations between HOTAIR and breast cancer development and inspire new methods for studying the association in depth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yubo Shi
- Department of Pathophysiology, Basic Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China; (Y.S.); (Q.H.); (X.K.); (R.Z.); (X.C.); (Y.Z.)
- Queen Mary School, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Qingyun Huang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Basic Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China; (Y.S.); (Q.H.); (X.K.); (R.Z.); (X.C.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Xinyu Kong
- Department of Pathophysiology, Basic Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China; (Y.S.); (Q.H.); (X.K.); (R.Z.); (X.C.); (Y.Z.)
- Queen Mary School, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Ruichen Zhao
- Department of Pathophysiology, Basic Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China; (Y.S.); (Q.H.); (X.K.); (R.Z.); (X.C.); (Y.Z.)
- Queen Mary School, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Xinyue Chen
- Department of Pathophysiology, Basic Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China; (Y.S.); (Q.H.); (X.K.); (R.Z.); (X.C.); (Y.Z.)
- Second Clinical Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Yujia Zhai
- Department of Pathophysiology, Basic Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China; (Y.S.); (Q.H.); (X.K.); (R.Z.); (X.C.); (Y.Z.)
- Queen Mary School, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Lixia Xiong
- Department of Pathophysiology, Basic Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China; (Y.S.); (Q.H.); (X.K.); (R.Z.); (X.C.); (Y.Z.)
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Tumor Pathogenesis and Molecular Pathology, Nanchang 330006, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-791-8636-0556
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Zafferani M, Hargrove AE. Small molecule targeting of biologically relevant RNA tertiary and quaternary structures. Cell Chem Biol 2021; 28:594-609. [PMID: 33823146 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2021.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Initial successes in developing small molecule ligands for non-coding RNAs have underscored their potential as therapeutic targets. More recently, these successes have been aided by advances in biophysical and structural techniques for identification and characterization of more complex RNA structures; these higher-level folds present protein-like binding pockets that offer opportunities to design small molecules that could achieve a degree of selectivity often hard to obtain at the primary and secondary structure level. More specifically, identification and small molecule targeting of RNA tertiary and quaternary structures have allowed researchers to probe several human diseases and have resulted in promising clinical candidates. In this review we highlight a selection of diverse and exciting successes and the experimental approaches that led to their discovery. These studies include examples of recent developments in RNA-centric assays and ligands that provide insight into the features responsible for the affinity and biological outcome of RNA-targeted chemical probes. This report highlights the potential and emerging opportunities to selectively target RNA tertiary and quaternary structures as a route to better understand and, ultimately, treat many diseases.
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Ghafouri-Fard S, Tamizkar KH, Hussen BM, Taheri M. An update on the role of long non-coding RNAs in the pathogenesis of breast cancer. Pathol Res Pract 2021; 219:153373. [DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2021.153373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Noncoding RNAs in the Interplay between Tumor Cells and Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts: Signals to Catch and Targets to Hit. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040709. [PMID: 33572359 PMCID: PMC7916113 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cancer aggressiveness is the result of a proficient bidirectional interaction between tumor and stromal cells within the tumor microenvironment, among which a major role is played by the so-called cancer-associated fibroblasts. Upon such interplay, both cancer cells and fibroblasts are reprogrammed to sustain malignancy, with changes in the repertoire of noncoding RNAs, mainly microRNAs and long noncoding RNAs. Such molecules are also exchanged between the two cell types through extracellular vesicles. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of microRNAs and long noncoding RNAs that act intracellularly or extracellularly to sustain tumor-stroma interplay. We also provide our view regarding the possible clinical utility of such noncoding RNAs as therapeutic target/tools or biomarkers to predict patient outcome or response to specific treatments. Abstract Cancer development and progression are not solely cell-autonomous and genetically driven processes. Dynamic interaction of cancer cells with the surrounding microenvironment, intended as the chemical/physical conditions as well as the mixture of non-neoplastic cells of the tumor niche, drive epigenetic changes that are pivotal for the acquisition of malignant traits. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF), namely fibroblasts that, corrupted by cancer cells, acquire a myofibroblast-like reactive phenotype, are able to sustain tumor features by the secretion of soluble paracrine signals and the delivery extracellular vesicles. In such diabolic liaison, a major role has been ascribed to noncoding RNAs. Defined as RNAs that are functional though not being translated into proteins, noncoding RNAs predominantly act as regulators of gene expression at both the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of microRNAs and long noncoding RNAs that act intracellularly in either CAFs or cancer cells to sustain tumor-stroma interplay. We also report on the major role of extracellular noncoding RNAs that are bidirectionally transferred between either cell type. Upon presenting a comprehensive view of the existing literature, we provide our critical opinion regarding the possible clinical utility of tumor-stroma related noncoding RNAs as therapeutic target/tools or prognostic/predictive biomarkers.
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Cantile M, Di Bonito M, Tracey De Bellis M, Botti G. Functional Interaction among lncRNA HOTAIR and MicroRNAs in Cancer and Other Human Diseases. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13030570. [PMID: 33540611 PMCID: PMC7867281 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13030570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary This review aimed to describe the contribution of functional interaction between the lncRNA HOTAIR and microRNAs in human diseases, including cancer. HOTAIR/miRNAs complexes interfere with different cellular processes during carcinogenesis, mainly deregulating a series of oncogenic signaling pathways. A great number of ncRNAs-related databases have been established, supported by bioinformatics technologies, to identify the ncRNA-mediated sponge regulatory network. These approaches need experimental validation through cells and animal models studies. The optimization of systems to interfere with HOTAIR/miRNAs interplay could represent a new tool for the definition of diagnostic therapeutics in cancer patients. Abstract LncRNAs are a class of non-coding RNAs mostly involved in regulation of cancer initiation, metastatic progression, and drug resistance, through participation in post-transcription regulatory processes by interacting with different miRNAs. LncRNAs are able to compete with endogenous RNAs by binding and sequestering miRNAs and thereby regulating the expression of their target genes, often represented by oncogenes. The lncRNA HOX transcript antisense RNA (HOTAIR) represents a diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive biomarker in many human cancers, and its functional interaction with miRNAs has been described as crucial in the modulation of different cellular processes during cancer development. The aim of this review is to highlight the relation between lncRNA HOTAIR and different microRNAs in human diseases, discussing the contribution of these functional interactions, especially in cancer development and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Cantile
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-Irccs-Fondazione G.Pascale, 80131 Naples, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-081-590-3471; Fax: +39-081-590-3718
| | - Maurizio Di Bonito
- Pathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-Irccs-Fondazione G.Pascale, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Maura Tracey De Bellis
- Scientific Direction, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-Irccs-Fondazione G.Pascale, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.T.D.B.); (G.B.)
| | - Gerardo Botti
- Scientific Direction, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-Irccs-Fondazione G.Pascale, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.T.D.B.); (G.B.)
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49
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Zhao H, De Souza C, Kumar VE, Nambiar R, Hao D, Zhu X, Luo Y, Liu S, Zhang L, Zhu J. Long non-coding RNA signatures as predictors of prognosis in thyroid cancer: a narrative review. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:359. [PMID: 33708986 PMCID: PMC7944284 DOI: 10.21037/atm-20-8191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Thyroid cancer (TC) is the most common endocrine malignancy, with high incidence rates in recent decades. Most TC cases have good prognoses, but a high risk of recurrence and metastases poses challenges, especially for patients with high-risk factors. Currently used prognostic markers for TC involve a combination of genetic factors and overexpressed proteins. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) regulate several integral biologic processes by playing key roles in the transcription of several downstream targets maintaining cellular behavior. Prior studies have revealed that lncRNAs promote tumor cell proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and angiogenesis, making them important targets for therapeutic intervention in cancer. While the exact molecular mechanisms underlying the role of lncRNAs in modulating TC progression and recurrence is still unclear, it is important to note that some lncRNAs are upregulated in certain cancers, while others are downregulated. In the present study, we review several key lncRNAs, their association with cancer progression, and the important roles they may play as tumor suppressors or tumor promoters in tumorigenesis. We discuss the potential mechanisms of lncRNA-mediated pathogenesis that can be targeted for the treatment of TC, the existing and potential benefits of using lncRNAs as diagnostic and prognostic measures for cancer detection, and tumor burden in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyuan Zhao
- Department of Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Cristabelle De Souza
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Vigneshwari Easwar Kumar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Roshni Nambiar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Dake Hao
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of California, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Shriners Hospitals for Children, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Xiaofeng Zhu
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Yi Luo
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Shengshan Liu
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Lingyun Zhang
- Department of Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jingqiang Zhu
- Department of Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Meyer SM, Williams CC, Akahori Y, Tanaka T, Aikawa H, Tong Y, Childs-Disney JL, Disney MD. Small molecule recognition of disease-relevant RNA structures. Chem Soc Rev 2020; 49:7167-7199. [PMID: 32975549 PMCID: PMC7717589 DOI: 10.1039/d0cs00560f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Targeting RNAs with small molecules represents a new frontier in drug discovery and development. The rich structural diversity of folded RNAs offers a nearly unlimited reservoir of targets for small molecules to bind, similar to small molecule occupancy of protein binding pockets, thus creating the potential to modulate human biology. Although the bacterial ribosome has historically been the most well exploited RNA target, advances in RNA sequencing technologies and a growing understanding of RNA structure have led to an explosion of interest in the direct targeting of human pathological RNAs. This review highlights recent advances in this area, with a focus on the design of small molecule probes that selectively engage structures within disease-causing RNAs, with micromolar to nanomolar affinity. Additionally, we explore emerging RNA-target strategies, such as bleomycin A5 conjugates and ribonuclease targeting chimeras (RIBOTACs), that allow for the targeted degradation of RNAs with impressive potency and selectivity. The compounds discussed in this review have proven efficacious in human cell lines, patient-derived cells, and pre-clinical animal models, with one compound currently undergoing a Phase II clinical trial and another that recently garnerd FDA-approval, indicating a bright future for targeted small molecule therapeutics that affect RNA function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha M Meyer
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA.
| | - Christopher C Williams
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA.
| | - Yoshihiro Akahori
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA.
| | - Toru Tanaka
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA.
| | - Haruo Aikawa
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA.
| | - Yuquan Tong
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA.
| | - Jessica L Childs-Disney
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA.
| | - Matthew D Disney
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA.
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