Long Noncoding RNA (lncRNA) MIR22HG Suppresses Gastric Cancer Progression through Attenuating NOTCH2 Signaling

Mir22hg facilitates ferritinophagy-mediated ferroptosis in sepsis by recruiting the m6A reader YTHDC1 and enhancing Angptl4 mRNA stability

BACKGROUND

Ferritinophagy-mediated ferroptosis plays a crucial role in fighting pathogen aggression. The long non-coding RNA Mir22hg is involved in the regulation of ferroptosis and aberrantly overexpression in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced sepsis mice, but whether it regulates sepsis through ferritinophagy-mediated ferroptosis is unclear.

METHODS

Mir22hg was screened by bioinformatics analysis. Ferroptosis was assessed by assaying malondialdehyde (MDA), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and Fe2+ levels, glutathione (GSH) activity, as well as ferroptosis-related proteins GPX4 and SLC3A2 by using matched kits and performing western blot. Ferritinophagy was assessed by Lyso tracker staining and FerroOrange staining, immunofluorescence analysis of Ferritin and LC-3, and western blot analysis of LC-3II/I, p62, FTH1, and NCOA4. The bind of YTH domain containing 1 (YTHDC1) to Mir22hg or angiopoietin-like-4 (Angptl4) was verified by RNA pull-down and/or immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays.

RESULTS

Mir22hg silencing lightened ferroptosis and ferritinophagy in LPS-induced MLE-12 cells and sepsis mouse models, as presented by the downregulated MDA, ROS, Fe2+, NCOA4, and SLC3A2 levels, upregulated GPX4, GSH, and FTH1 levels, along with a decrease in autophagy. Mir22hg could bind to the m6A reader YTHDC1 without affecting its expression. Mechanistically, Mir22hg enhanced Angptl4 mRNA stability through recruiting the m6A reader YTHDC1. Furthermore, Angptl4 overexpression partly overturned Mir22hg inhibition-mediated effects on ferroptosis and ferritinophagy in LPS-induced MLE-12 cells.

CONCLUSION

Mir22hg contributed to in ferritinophagy-mediated ferroptosis in sepsis via recruiting the m6A reader YTHDC1 and strengthening Angptl4 mRNA stability, highlighting that Mir22hg may be a potential target for sepsis treatment based on ferroptosis.

The intricate interplay between cancer stem cells and cell-of-origin of cancer: implications for therapeutic strategies

Background

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have emerged as pivotal players in tumorigenesis, disease progression, and resistance to therapies.

Objective

This comprehensive review delves into the intricate relationship between CSCs and the cell-of-origin in diverse cancer types.

Design

Comprehensive review of thematically-relevant literature.

Methods

We explore the underlying molecular mechanisms that drive the conversion of normal cells into CSCs and the impact of the cell-of-origin on CSC properties, tumor initiation, and therapeutic responses. Moreover, we discuss potential therapeutic interventions targeting CSCs based on their distinct cell-of-origin characteristics.

Results

Accruing evidence suggest that the cell-of-origin, the cell type from which the tumor originates, plays a crucial role in determining the properties of CSCs and their contribution to tumor heterogeneity.

Conclusion

By providing critical insights into the complex interplay between CSCs and their cellular origins, this article aims to enhance our understanding of cancer biology and pave the way for more effective and personalized cancer treatments.

Decoding the regulatory landscape of lncRNAs as potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for gastric and colorectal cancers

Colorectal cancer (CRC) and gastric cancer (GC) are major contributors to cancer-related mortality worldwide. Despite advancements in understanding molecular mechanisms and improved drug treatments, the overall survival rate for patients remains unsatisfactory. Metastasis and drug resistance are major challenges contributing to the high mortality rate in both CRC and GC. Recent research has shed light on the role of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the development and progression of these cancers. LncRNAs regulate gene expression through various mechanisms, including epigenetic modifications and interactions with microRNAs (miRNAs) and proteins. They can serve as miRNA precursors or pseudogenes, modulating gene expression at transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. Additionally, circulating lncRNAs have emerged as non-invasive biomarkers for the diagnosis, prognosis, and prediction of drug therapy response in CRC and GC. This review explores the intricate relationship between lncRNAs and CRC/GC, encompassing their roles in cancer development, progression, and chemoresistance. Furthermore, it discusses the potential of lncRNAs as therapeutic targets in these malignancies. The interplay between lncRNAs, miRNAs, and tumor microenvironment is also highlighted, emphasizing their impact on the complexity of cancer biology. Understanding the regulatory landscape and molecular mechanisms governed by lncRNAs in CRC and GC is crucial for the development of effective diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, as well as novel therapeutic strategies. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge and paves the way for further exploration of lncRNAs as key players in the management of CRC and GC.

Long non-coding RNA MIR22HG inhibits the proliferation and migration, and promotes apoptosis by targeting microRNA-9-3p/ SOCS1 axis in small cell lung cancer cells

BACKGROUND

This study aims to determine the role of long non-coding RNA (LncRNA) MIR22HG in small cell lung cancer (SCLC), and to explore its relevant mechanism.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The expressions of genes and proteins in SCLC cells were examined applying qRT-PCR and western blot. Cell proliferation estimation was implemented utilizing cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) and colony formation assays; the assessment of cell migration and invasion was operated employing Wound healing and Transwell; apoptosis evaluation was conducted adopting flow cytometric assay. Binding relationships was confirmed by luciferase reporter assay. Moreover, SCLC animal model was established to explore the role of MIR22HG in vivo. It was found that MIR22HG was declined and miR-9-3p was elevated in five SCLC cell lines (NCI-H446, NCI-H69, SHP-77, DMS79 and NCI-H345) in comparison with normal human bronchial epithelial cell line (NHBE). More interestingly, overexpression of MIR22HG resulted in decreased cell viability, declined colony formation, diminished capacities of cell migration and invasion in NCI-H446 and NCI-H345 cells but induced more apoptotic cells. However, these impacts were reversed by miR-9-3p upregulation. Meanwhile, MIR22HG could bind to miR-9-3p and negatively regulate its expression in SCLC. What's more, LncRNA MIR22HG overexpression was also testified to elevate SOCS1 via downregulating miR-9-3p expression. Furthermore, in vivo study further confirmed the role of MIR22HG/miR-9-3p in tumor regulation of SCLC.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, MIR22HG in SCLC was found to modulate miR-9-3p level and might act as a possible biomarker for SCLC treatment.

Low SP1 SUMOylation-dependent SNHG17 upregulation promotes drug resistance of gastric cancer through impairing hsa-miR-23b-3p-induced Notch2 inhibition

OBJECTIVE

Specificity protein 1 (SP1), a transcription factor mediated by SUMOylation modifiers, is upregulated in gastric cancer (GC) and shares negative correlation with patient prognosis. Here, we paid main attention to the role of SP1 SUMOylation in the drug resistance of GC cells and the possible long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) SNHG17/microRNA-23b-3p (miR-23b-3p)/Notch2 network engaged in this process.

METHODS

Tumor tissues and non-tumor tissues were isolated from GC patients who received treatment with capecitabine and cisplatin (DDP). Co-immunoprecipitation was utilized to detect the SUMOylation level of SP1. Using gain- and loss-of-function approaches, we assessed the impacts of SNHG17/miR-23b-3p/Notch2 on sensitivity of DDP-resistant GC cells in vitro and in vivo. A series of assays such as luciferase activity detection and RNA pull-down were conducted for mechanistic exploration.

RESULTS

SP1 expression was increased due to low SP1 SUMOylation level in the recurrent GC tissues. This increase led to upregulated SNHG17 expression and SP1 binding sites existed in the SNHG17 promoter. In addition, SNHG17 could bind to miR-23b-3p while miR-23b-3p targeted Notch2. Loss of SNHG17 reduced the resistance of DDP-resistant GC cells to DDP, which was achieved through miR-23b-3p-dependent Notch2 inhibition. Finally, SP1 silencing attenuated the resistance of GC to DDP in mice.

CONCLUSION

Low SP1 SUMOylation induces SNHG17 upregulation and blocks miR-23b-3p-induced Notch2 inhibition, contributing to the resistance of GC to DDP. This study may aid in the development of therapeutic targets overcoming the chemoresistance of GC.

Notch-associated lncRNAs profiling circuiting epigenetic modification in colorectal cancer

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most prevalent digestive cancers, ranking the 2nd cause of cancer-related fatality worldwide. The worldwide burden of CRC is predicted to rise by 60% by 2030. Environmental factors drive, first, inflammation and hence, cancer incidence increase.

Main

The Notch-signaling system is an evolutionarily conserved cascade, has role in the biological normal developmental processes as well as malignancies. Long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) have become major contributors in the advancement of cancer by serving as signal pathways regulators. They can control gene expression through post-translational changes, interactions with micro-RNAs or down-stream effector proteins. Recent emerging evidence has emphasized the role of lncRNAs in controlling Notch-signaling activity, regulating development of several cancers including CRC.

Conclusion

Notch-associated lncRNAs might be useful prognostic biomarkers or promising potential therapeutic targets for CRC treatment.

Therefore, here-in we will focus on the role of “Notch-associated lncRNAs in CRC” highlighting “the impact of Notch-associated lncRNAs as player for cancer induction and/or progression.”

Graphical Abstract

LncRNA LINC01270 aggravates the progression of gastric cancer through modulation of miR-326/EFNA3 axis

Gastric cancer (GC) is lethal malignancy, which is associated with high mortality. Long noncoding RNA LINC01270 has been identified to act as a potential oncogene in several cancers. However, its role and related regulatory mechanism in GC are yet to be illustrated. The levels of lncRNA LINC01270, miR-326, and EphrinA3 (EFNA3) were assessed by quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) and colony formation assays were applied for analyzing cell proliferation. Transwell assay was used for measuring cellular migration and invasion. Western blot analysis was employed for evaluating the protein levels. Luciferase reporter and RNA pull-down assays were utilized to verify the binding ability between LINC01270 (or EFNA3) and miR-326. Our findings indicated that LINC01270 expression was significantly up-regulated in GC tissues and cell lines. Additionally, LINC01270 knockdown attenuated GC progression through inhibiting cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Functional experiments identified that lncRNA LINC01270 could positively regulate EFNA3 expression by serving as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) for miR-326. Through rescue assays, inhibition of GC progression caused by LINC01270 suppression was found to be reversed by the application of miR-326 inhibitor or EFNA3 overexpression. Overall, our work demonstrated that lncRNA LINC01270 can accelerate cell proliferation, migration, and invasion via modulating miR-326/EFNA3 axis. These findings might implicate the potential role of lncRNA LINC01270 in GC treatment.

The long non-coding RNA UPAT promotes gastric cancer cell progression via UHRF1

BACKGROUND

LncRNA ubiquitin-like with PHD and RING finger domains 1 (UHRF1) protein associated transcript (UPAT) regulates the progression of many cancers. However, its role in gastric cancer (GC) is less frequently reported.

OBJECTIVE

In the context of the promoting effect of lncRNA on modulating GC progression, detailed insights into the role and underlying mechanism of UPAT in GC are the foothold in this study.

METHODS

Overall survival was calculated. The mRNA expressions of UPAT and UHRF1 were measured by qRT-PCR, and the protein expressions of UHRF1, Cyclin D1 and cleaved caspase-3 were determined by western blot. Cell viability, growth, migration and invasion were assessed by CCK-8, colony formation, wound healing and Transwell assays, respectively. Apoptosis rate and cell cycle were assayed by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

UPAT was overexpressed in GC tissue and cell lines. Decreased UPAT level was associated with higher overall survival. Down-regulation of UPAT diminished cell proliferation, Cyclin D1 expression, and migration and invasion rates, increased apoptosis rate and cleaved caspase-3 expression, and blocked cell cycle in AGS and NCI-N87 cells. UPAT expression in GC was positively correlated with UHRF1 expression. UHRF1 overexpression offset the inhibitory effects of UPAT down-regulation on cell proliferation, migration, invasion and cell cycle, and partially reversed the positive effect of UPAT down-regulation on apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

UPAT might positively regulate the progression of GC via interacting with UHRF1. The UHRF1/UPAT axis revealed in the present study may provide a promising approach to intervene in the progression of GC.

Long non-coding RNA p53 upregulated regulator of p53 levels (PURPL) promotes the development of gastric cancer

Gastric cancer (GC), one of the most prevalent malignancies across the world, has an increasing incidence rate. Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) PURPL (also referred to as LINC01021) has been demonstrated to influence malignant GC behaviors and partake in other cancers. Notwithstanding, reports pertaining to the underlying mechanism of PURPL in GC haven’t been rarely seen. Presently, in-vivo and ex-vivo experiments were implemented to examine the PURPL-miR-137-ZBTB7A-PI3K-AKT-NF-κB regulatory axis in GC. Our statistics revealed that PURPL presented a high expression in GC tissues and cell lines. PURPL overexpression remarkably exacerbated colony formation, migration, and invasion and repressed apoptosis in GC cells (AGS and MNK-45). In-vivo experiments also corroborated that cell growth was boosted by PURPL up-regulation. Mechanistic investigations verified that PURPL interacted with miR-137 and lowered its profile in GC cell lines. miR-137 overexpression or ZBTB7A knockdown upended the oncogenic function mediated by PURPL. PURPL initiated the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway. PI3K and NF-κB inhibition impaired the promoting impact on GC cells elicited by PURPL overexpression and contributed to PURPL down-regulation. These findings disclosed that PURPL serves as an oncogene in the context of GC via miR-137-ZBTB7A-PI3K-AKT-NF-κB axis modulation.

lncRNA GAS8-AS1 regulates cancer cell proliferation and predicts poor survival of patients with gastric cancer

Long non-coding (lnc)RNAs have been recognized as important regulators in gastric cancer. lncRNA GAS8-AS1 is considered a tumor suppressor in multiple types of cancer, such as papillary thyroid carcinoma, ovarian cancer and colorectal cancer. However, the specific role of GAS8-AS1 in gastric cancer remains to be fully elucidated. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of GAS8-AS1 in gastric cancer and its potential underlying mechanisms of action. The expression levels of GAS8-AS1, microRNA (miR)-21-3p, PTEN and pyruvate dehydrogenase (E1) alpha subunit gene (PDHA1) in gastric cancer and non-cancerous tissues, as well as in gastric cancer cell lines, were detected using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. Cell proliferation was detected by using a Cell Counting Kit-8 assay. Cell migration and invasion were detected using a Transwell assay. Results of the present study demonstrated that the expression levels of GAS8-AS1 in gastric cancer tissues were significantly decreased, whereas its expression did not differ among cancer tissues at different clinical stages. Low expression levels of GAS8-AS1 predicted poor 5-year survival rates for 70 patients with gastric adenocarcinoma from the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University (Xuzhou, China) during patient follow-up. In addition, the expression levels of miR-21-3p were markedly increased in cancer tissues, and miR-21-3p expression was negatively associated with the expression of GAS8-AS1. The direct interaction between GAS8-AS1 and miR-21-3p was predicted using the starBase database and was confirmed by using an RNA pull-down assay. In gastric cell lines, the overexpression of GAS8-AS1 reduced the expression levels of mature miR-21-3p but did not affect the expression of miR-21-3p precursor, while the overexpression of miR-21-3p did not, in turn, affect the expression of GAS8-AS1. In addition, the overexpression of GAS8-AS1 inhibited cancer cell proliferation, while the overexpression of miR-21-3p promoted cancer cell proliferation and attenuated the effects of GAS8-AS1. Overexpression of miR-21-3p promoted cancer cell migration and invasion, whereas overexpression of GAS8-AS1 did not affect cell migration or invasion. In summary, results of the present study have demonstrated that GAS8-AS1 acts as a tumor suppressor in gastric cancer, and it may inhibit cancer cell proliferation by downregulating miR-21-3p.

Long non-coding RNAs: Biogenesis, functions, and clinical significance in gastric cancer

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most prevalent malignant tumor types and the third leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Its morbidity and mortality are very high due to a lack of understanding about its pathogenesis and the slow development of novel therapeutic strategies. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNAs with a length of more than 200 nt. They play crucial roles in a wide spectrum of physiological and pathological processes by regulating the expression of genes involved in proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, cell cycle, invasion, metastasis, DNA damage, and carcinogenesis. The aberrant expression of lncRNAs has been found in various cancer types. A growing amount of evidence demonstrates that lncRNAs are involved in many aspects of GC pathogenesis, including its occurrence, metastasis, and recurrence, indicating their potential role as novel biomarkers in the diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic targets of GC. This review systematically summarizes the biogenesis, biological properties, and functions of lncRNAs and highlights their critical role and clinical significance in GC. This information may contribute to the development of better diagnostics and treatments for GC.

The Biological Significance of Long noncoding RNAs Dysregulation and their Mechanism of Regulating Signaling Pathways in Cervical Cancer

Despite the remarkable decrease in cervical cancer incidence due to the availability of the HPV vaccine and implementation of screening programs for early detection in developed countries, this cancer remains a major health problem globally, especially in developing countries where most of the cases and mortality occur. Therefore, more understanding of molecular mechanisms of cervical cancer development might lead to the discovery of more effective diagnosis and treatment options. Research on long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) demonstrates the important roles of these molecules in many physiological processes and diseases, especially cancer. In the present review, we discussed the significance of lncRNAs altered expression in cervical cancer, highlighting their roles in regulating highly conserved signaling pathways, such as mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) pathways and their association with the progression of cervical cancer in order to bring more insight and understanding of this disease and their potential implications in cancer diagnosis and therapy.

Long noncoding RNA TMPO-AS1/miR-126-5p/BRCC3 axis accelerates gastric cancer progression and angiogenesis via activating PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Gastric cancer (GC) is an aggressive tumor featured by uncontrolled cell proliferation and metastasis. In recent years, long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) act as crucial regulators and biological markers in multiple cancers. LncRNA TMPO-AS1 has been revealed to be an oncogene in some cancers. Nevertheless, there is little known about the biological role of TMPO-AS1 in GC.

METHODS

Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis was used to examine the expression level of TMPO-AS1 in GC tissues and cells. Cell Counting Kit-8, colony formation, wound healing assays, and western blot analysis were performed to determine the role of TMPO-AS1 in GC cells. RNA pull-down, luciferase reporter, and RNA immunoprecipitation assays were used to test the interaction among TMPO-AS1, miR-126-5p, and BRCC3.

RESULTS

TMPO-AS1 was highly expressed in GC tissues and cells. Upregulated TMPO-AS1 was closely associated with adverse prognosis of GC patients. Functional assays showed that TMPO-AS1 promoted GC cell proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis. Furthermore, it was found that TMPO-AS1 acted as a competing endogenous RNA for miR-126-5p to upregulate BRCC3 expression. Rescue assays revealed that TMPO-AS1 facilitated cellular progression of GC by sponging miR-126-5p and upregulating BRCC3. In addition, we found that the effects of the TMPO-AS1/miR-126-5p/BRCC3 axis on GC cell progression were related to the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrated that the TMPO-AS1/miR-126-5p/BRCC3 axis was involved in GC progression via the regulation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, which might provide a potential therapeutic strategy for GC.

Long noncoding RNA LINC00982 upregulates CTSF expression to inhibit gastric cancer progression via the transcription factor HEY1

Upregulating the expression of long noncoding RNA LINC00982 controlled cell proliferation in gastric cancer, but the regulatory molecular mechanisms are yet to be expounded. We here aimed to elaborate how LINC00982 regulated the malignancy of gastric cancer cells. RT-qPCR and Western blot analysis were used to detect the expression of LINC00982 and cathepsin F (CTSF) in gastric cancer tissues and cells. Modulatory effect of LINC00982 on gastric cancer cells was assessed by CCK-8, colony formation, Transwell migration, and invasion assays. The relationship between LINC00982, YRPW motif 1 (HEY1), and CTSF was examined by RNA-binding protein immunoprecipitation, luciferase assay, and chromatin immunoprecipitation, and their interaction in the regulation of gastric cancer cellular functions was analyzed by performing gain-of-function and rescue assays. The nude mouse model of tumor formation was developed to examine the effects of LINC00982 on tumorigenesis. LINC00982 was lowly expressed in gastric cancer tissues, whereas its overexpression impaired the proliferative, migratory, and invasive properties of gastric cancer cells. Furthermore, LINC00982 could bind to transcription factor HEY1 and inhibited its expression. Through blocking the binding of HEY1 to CTSF promoter, LINC00982 promoted the expression of CTSF. Overexpression of HEY1 or inhibition of CTSF could reverse the antitumor effects of LINC00982 on gastric cancer, which were further demonstrated in vivo. All these taken together, LINC00982 acted as a tumor suppressor in gastric cancer, which is therefore suggested to be a potential antitumor target for gastric cancer.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We identified LINC00982 as a promising antitumor target for the treatment of patients with gastric cancer. We also determined a regulatory network involved in the pathophysiology of gastric cancer wherein LINC00982 could bind to HEY1 to impair its binding to cathepsin F (CTSF) promoter and hence promote CTSF expression, which aids in better understanding of molecular mechanisms related to gastric tumorigenesis.

Molecular Mechanism of 73HOXC-AS1-Activated Wntβ-Catenin Signaling and eIF4AIII in Promoting Progression of Gastric Cancer

OBJECTIVE

This study is aimed at exploring the regulatory mechanism of 73HOXC-AS1 overexpression plasmid-activated Wntβ-catenin classic signaling pathway and eukaryotic initiation factor 4A (eIF4AIII) expression increased by lentivirus-eIF4AIII-RNAi (44682-1) (LV-eIF4AIII-RNAi (44682-1)).

METHODS

Focusing on the occurrence and progression of gastric cancer, the human gastric cancer cell line BGC823 (University Experimental Center) was taken as the research object and was transfected after subculture. According to the different ways of transfection, the cells were divided into the P1 group (LV-eIF4AIII-RNAi (44682-1) overexpressed plasmid), the P2 group (pcDNA-HOXC-AS1 overexpressed plasmid), the P3 group (LV-eIF4AIII-RNAi (44682-1) + pcDNA-HOXC-AS1), and the P4 group (no transfection, control group). Cell proliferation was detected by CCK-8 (Cell Counting Kit-8) assay, Western blotting was adopted to detect Wnt3a and P-GSK3β proteins, Transwell assay was adopted to detect the ability of cell migration and invasion, and cell cycle and apoptosis were detected by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

The results show that the protein expression levels of Wnt3a and P-GSK3β (glycogen synthase kinase-3β) in the P1 and P4 groups were lower than those in the P2 and P3 groups (P < 0.05). The cell activity and clone number of BGC823 in the P3 group were higher than those in the P1, P2, and P4 groups (P < 0.05). The apoptosis rate of BGC823 cells in the P3 group was significantly higher than those in the P1, P2, and P4 groups (P < 0.05). The proportion of BGC823 cells in the P3 group at the S phase was significantly higher than those in the P1, P2, and P4 groups, while the proportion in the G2 phase was significantly lower than those in the P1, P2, and P4 groups (P < 0.05). The number of migrating and invading BGC823 cells in the P3 group was significantly higher than those in the P1, P2, and P4 groups, while the number of migrating BGC823 cells in the P4 group was significantly lower than those in the P1 and P2 groups (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The 73HOXC-AS1 overexpression plasmid-activated Wntβ-catenin classic signaling pathway and eIF4AIII expression increased by LV-eIF4AIII-RNAi (44682-1) could act together on BGC823 cells to improve cell proliferation activity, migration, and invasion; inhibit cell apoptosis; and prevent cells from entering the S phase.

LncRNA DLEU2 is activated by STAT1 and induces gastric cancer development via targeting miR-23b-3p/NOTCH2 axis and Notch signaling pathway

INTRODUCTION

Gastric cancer (GC) has severely affected the health of patients and caused high mortality around the world. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been validated to play significant roles in biological process of multiple cancers.

METHODS

Quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) and western blot analysis were conducted to evaluate the expression levels and protein levels of related genes in GC cells. Functional assays were implemented to explore the effect of deleted in lymphocytic leukemia 2 (DLEU2). The upstream and downstream mechanisms of DLEU2 were verified by mechanism investigations.

RESULTS

The expression of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) DLEU2 was observably high in GC cells and tissues. DLEU2 silence depressed the capacities of proliferation, migration and invasion but promoted apoptosis in GC cells. Moreover, DLEU2 was activated by signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) and sequestered microRNA-23b-3p (miR-23b-3p) to modulate the expression of notch receptor 2 (NOTCH2), thereby stimulating Notch signaling pathway. More importantly, DLEU2 contributed to GC progression via targeting miR-23b-3p/NOTCH2 axis.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, our research identified the STAT1/DLEU2/miR-23b-3p/NOTCH2/Notch axis in GC development, indicating that DLEU2 might function as a novel biomarker in GC.

MIR22HG Regulates the Proliferation, Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition, and Apoptosis in Colorectal Carcinoma

Background: Recent investigations have suggested that long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) MIR22HG is commonly dysregulated in multiple types of malignancies. Nevertheless, the roles of MIR22HG in human colorectal carcinoma (CRC) are not well explored. Materials and Methods: Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and in situ hybridization (ISH) assay were used to measure the expression of MIR22HG. 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT), flow cytometry, and migration, as well as invasion assays, were utilized to determine the roles of MIR22HG on growth, apoptosis, migration, and invasiveness of CRC cell. The expression of E-cadherin and N-cadherin was measured using western blotting and immunohistochemistry staining assay. CRC cell growth in vivo was analyzed using nude mice xenograft. Results: The qPCR and ISH assay revealed that MIR22HG was downregulated in CRC sample compared with in normal tissue. MIR22HG was also significantly downexpressed in CRC cells compared with that in normal colonic epithelial cell line. Overexpression of MIR22HG inhibited the growth, migration ability, and invasiveness of CRC cell in vitro. In addition, MIR22HG suppressed the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and induced the apoptosis of human CRC cell. Moreover, the authors demonstrated that MIR22HG inhibited the tumor growth of CRC cell and regulated the expression of EMT markers (E-cadherin and N-cadherin) in vivo. Conclusion: Altogether, these results implied that lncRNA MIR22HG restrained the aggressive phenotypes of CRC cell.

Dual relationship between long non-coding RNAs and STAT3 signaling in different cancers: New insight to proliferation and metastasis

Uncontrolled growth and metastasis of cancer cells is an increasing challenge for overcoming cancer, and improving survival of patients. Complicated signaling networks account for proliferation and invasion of cancer cells that need to be elucidated for providing effective cancer therapy, and minimizing their malignancy. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are RNA molecules with a length of more than 200 nucleotides. They participate in cellular events, and their dysregulation in a common phenomenon in different cancers. Noteworthy, lncRNAs can regulate different molecular pathways, and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is one of them. STAT3 is a tumor-promoting factors in cancers due to its role in cancer proliferation (cell cycle progression and apoptosis inhibition) and metastasis (EMT induction). LncRNAs can function as upstream mediators of STAT3 pathway, reducing/enhancing its expression. This dual relationship is of importance in affecting proliferation and metastasis of cancer cells. The response of cancer cells to therapy such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy is regulated by lncRNA/STAT3 axis. Tumor-promoting lncRNAs including NEAT1, SNHG3 and H19 induces STAT3 expression, while tumor-suppressing lncRNAs such as MEG3, PTCSC3 and NKILA down-regulate STAT3 expression. Noteworthy, upstream mediators of STAT3 such as microRNAs can be regulated by lncRNAs. These complicated signaling networks are mechanistically described in the current review.

Long non-coding RNA MIR22HG inhibits glioma progression by downregulating microRNA-9/CPEB3

Glioma is one of the most common and aggressive malignant intracranial tumors worldwide. Recently, non-coding RNAs have been found to play critical roles in the development of glioma. However, the exact mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. In the present study, reverse transcription-quantitative PCR was used to determine the expression level of the long non-coding RNA MIR22HG and microRNA (miR)-9, while western blot analysis was used to detect the protein expression level of CPEB3. The potential binding sites were predicted using the StarBase v2.0 online tool and the hypothesis was verified using a luciferase reporter assay. A Cell Counting Kit-8 assay was used to assess cell viability, while wound healing and Matrigel assays were used to determine the migration and invasion ability of glioma cancer cells. The results showed that MIR22HG expression level was decreased but miR-9 expression level was elevated in glioma tissues and cell lines. Furthermore, MIR22HG was found to sponge miR-9, while CPEB3 was the direct target of miR-9 in the glioma cell line. Functionally, MIR22HG regulated the proliferation, invasion and migration of the glioma cell line by targeting miR-9. CPEB3 may be involved in the progression of the glioma cell line. Taken together, these findings confirmed that MIR22HG suppressed glioma development by inhibiting the miR-9/CPEB3 axis and provides a novel therapeutic strategy for glioma treatment.

Emerging impact of the long noncoding RNA MIR22HG on proliferation and apoptosis in multiple human cancers

An increasing number of studies have shown that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play important roles in diverse cellular processes, including proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion, chromatin remodeling, metabolism and immune escape. Clinically, the expression of MIR22HG is increased in many human tumors (colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, lung cancer, and thyroid carcinoma), while in others (esophageal adenocarcinoma and glioblastoma), it is significantly decreased. Moreover, MIR22HG has been reported to function as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA), be involved in signaling pathways, interact with proteins and interplay with miRNAs as a host gene to participate in tumorigenesis and tumor progression. In this review, we describe the biological functions of MIR22HG, reveal its underlying mechanisms for cancer regulation, and highlight the potential role of MIR22HG as a novel cancer prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target that can increase the efficacy of immunotherapy and targeted therapy for cancer treatment.

Long Noncoding RNA HIF1A-AS2 Promotes Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Progression by the miR-153-5p/S100A14 Axis

Background

Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) plays a critical role in initiating lung cancer. This study aims to research the function and mechanism of lncRNA HIF1A-AS2 in regulating non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) progression.

Methods

qRT-PCR was used to analyze gene expression. The CCK-8 assay was performed to detect cell proliferation. The Transwell assay was conducted to examine cell migration and invasion. A Caspase3 activity detection kit was utilized to analyze apoptosis. The luciferase reporter assay was carried out to research interactions of HIF1A-AS2, miR-153-5p and S100A14.

Results

HIF1A-AS2 expression was raised in NSCLC tissues and cell lines. The HIF1A-AS2 level was increased in advanced NSCLC tumor tissues. High HIF1A-AS2 expression was related to poor prognosis. HIF1A-AS2 knockdown decreased proliferation, migration and invasion while promoting apoptosis. HIF1A-AS2 was the sponge for miR-153-5p, and miR-153-5p targeted S100A14. HIF1A-AS2 promoted S100A14 expression through regulating miR-153-5p.

Conclusion

The HIF1A-AS2/miR-153-5p/S100A14 axis plays a crucial role in promoting NSCLC progression.

Five-mRNA Signature for the Prognosis of Breast Cancer Based on the ceRNA Network

Background

The purpose of this study was to investigate the regulatory mechanisms of ceRNAs in breast cancer (BC) and construct a new five-mRNA prognostic signature.

Methods

The ceRNA network was constructed by different RNAs screened by the edgeR package. The BC prognostic signature was built based on the Cox regression analysis. The log-rank method was used to analyse the survival rate of BC patients with different risk scores. The expression of the 5 genes was verified by the GSE81540 dataset and CPTAC database.

Results

A total of 41 BC-adjacent tissues and 473 BC tissues were included in this study. A total of 2,966 differentially expressed lncRNAs, 5,370 differentially expressed mRNAs, and 359 differentially expressed miRNAs were screened. The ceRNA network was constructed using 13 lncRNAs, 267 mRNAs, and 35 miRNAs. Kaplan-Meier (K-M) methods showed that two lncRNAs (AC037487.1 and MIR22HG) are related to prognosis. Five mRNAs (VPS28, COL17A1, HSF1, PUF60, and SMOC1) in the ceRNA network were used to establish a prognostic signature. Survival analysis showed that the prognosis of patients in the low-risk group was significantly better than that in the high-risk group (p = 0.0022). ROC analysis showed that this signature has a good diagnostic ability (AUC = 0.77). Compared with clinical features, this signature was also an independent prognostic factor (HR: 1.206, 95% CI 1.108−1.311; p < 0.001). External verification results showed that the expression of the 5 mRNAs differed between the normal and tumour groups at the chip and protein levels (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

These ceRNAs may play a key role in the development of BC, and the new 5-mRNA prognostic signature can improve the prediction of survival for BC patients.

Long non-coding RNA MIR22HG promotes osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells via PTEN/ AKT pathway

Osteoporosis is a prevalent metabolic bone disease characterized by low bone mineral density and degenerative disorders of bone tissues. Previous studies showed the abnormal osteogenic differentiation of endogenous bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) contributes to the development of osteoporosis. However, the underlying mechanisms by which BMSCs undergo osteogenic differentiation remain largely unexplored. Recently, long non-coding RNAs have been discovered to play important roles in regulating BMSC osteogenesis. In this study, we first showed MIR22HG, which has been demonstrated to be involved in the progression of several cancer types, played an important role in regulating BMSC osteogenesis. We found the expression of MIR22HG was significantly decreased in mouse BMSCs from the osteoporotic mice and it was upregulated during the osteogenic differentiation of human BMSCs. Overexpression of MIR22HG in human BMSCs enhanced osteogenic differentiation, whereas MIR22HG knockdown inhibited osteogenic differentiation both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, MIR22HG promoted osteogenic differentiation by downregulating phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) and therefore activating AKT signaling. Moreover, we found MIR22HG overexpression promoted osteoclastogenesis of RAW264.7 cells, which indicated that MIR22HG played a significant role in bone metabolism and could be a therapeutic target for osteoporosis and other bone-related diseases.

LncRNA MIR22HG abrogation inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis in esophageal adenocarcinoma cells via activation of the STAT3/c-Myc/FAK signaling

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have involved in human malignancies and played an important role in gene regulations. The dysregulation of lncRNA MIR22HG has been reported in several cancers. However, the role of MIR22HG in esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) is poorly understood. Loss of function approaches were used to investigate the biological role of MIR22HG in EAC cells. The effects of MIR22HG on cell proliferation were evaluated by WST-1 and colony formation assays. The effects of MIR22HG on cell migration and invasion were examined using transwell assays. QRT-PCR and Western blot were used to evaluate the mRNA and protein expression of related genes. In this study, abrogation of MIR22HG inhibited cell proliferation, colony formation, invasion and migration in EAC 3 cell lines (OE33, OE19 and FLO-1). Mechanistically, MIR22HG silencing decreased the expression of STAT3/c-Myc/p-FAK proteins and induced apoptosis in EAC cell lines. These results delineate a novel mechanism of MIR22HG in EAC, and may provide potential targets by developing lncRNA-based therapies for EAC.

lncRNA IGKJ2-MALLP2 suppresses LSCC proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis by sponging miR-1911-3p/p21

Because advanced laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) is diagnosed as a malignant tumor with a poor prognosis, the associated mechanisms still need to be further investigated. As key players in the development and progression of LSCC, lncRNAs have attracted increasing attention from many researchers. In this study, a novel lncRNA termed IGKJ2‐MALLP2 was identified and investigated for its effects on the development of LSCC. IGKJ2‐MALLP2 expression was confirmed by RT‐qPCR in 78 pairs of tissues and human laryngeal carcinoma cell lines. The results of this study showed that the expression of IGKJ2‐MALLP2 was reduced in LSCC tissues and displayed close relationships with tumor stage, lymph node metastasis, and clinical stage. Using a dual‐luciferase reporter assay, the ability of miR‐1911‐3p to bind both IGKJ2‐MALLP2 and p21 mRNA was demonstrated. IGKJ2‐MALLP2 could upregulate p21 expression by competitively binding miR‐1911‐3p. Moreover, IGKJ2‐MALLP2 effectively hindered the invasion, migration, and proliferation of AMC‐HN‐8 and TU212 tumor cells. Furthermore, its high expression could hinder the secretion of VEGF‐A and suppress angiogenesis. As revealed by the results of in vitro experiments, IGKJ2‐MALLP2 overexpression could restrict tumor growth and blood vessel formation in a xenograft model of LSCC. As indicated from the mentioned findings, IGKJ2‐MALLP2, which mediates p21 expression by targeting miR‐1911‐3p, was capable of regulating LSCC progression and could act as an underlying therapeutic candidate to treat LSCC.

A brief overview of clinical significance of novel Notch2 regulators

The Notch pathway is an essential signaling system allowing neighboring cells to communicate and accomplish their proper developmental role in physiological condition. Nevertheless, there are many controversies conferring its function in pathological condition, particularly in cancer. It has been discovered that epigenetic regulation, posttranslational modifications, gene overexpression, and mutations may lead to the dysregulation of the Notch pathway. Additionally, Notch-mediated signaling can support tumor-suppressing mechanisms in certain types of cancer or may have oncogenic functions in others. Notch2 is one of the receptors commonly expressed in a variety of cancer cells, including gastric, hematological, and lung cancer. Moreover, it can be dysregulated in other diseases. In efforts to explain the role of Notch2 in the pathogenesis of cancer, recent studies indicated an association between this receptor and dysregulation of miRNAs, tumor-associated stromal cell, and modulation in tumor cells. Consequently, Notch2 function in the carcinogenesis process is unquestionable, whereas information according to the effect of its inhibition in tumor is still obscure. Hence, the aim of our study was to evaluate the current state of knowledge conferring Notch2 inhibition, with a particular focus on its role in cancer.

LBX2-AS1/miR-219a-2-3p/FUS/LBX2 positive feedback loop contributes to the proliferation of gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are increasingly investigated in numerous carcinomas containing gastric cancer (GC). The aim of our research is to inquire about the expression profile and role of LBX2-AS1 in GC.

METHODS

The expressions of LBX2-AS1, miR-219a-2-3p, FUS and LBX2 were measured by qRT-PCR. Western blot evaluated FUS and LBX2 protein levels. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were, respectively, evaluated by CCK-8, colony formation, EdU, flow cytometry and TUNEL assays. FISH and subcellular fractionation assays examined the position of LBX2-AS1. The binding between genes were certified by RIP, RNA pull-down, ChIP and luciferase reporter assays. Pearson correlation analysis analyzed the association of genes. Kaplan-Meier method detected the relationship of LBX2-AS1 expression with overall survival.

RESULTS

The up-regulation of LBX2-AS1 in GC tissues and cells was verified. Function assays proved that LBX2-AS1 down-regulation restricted the proliferation ability. Then, we unveiled the LBX2-AS1/miR-219a-2-3p/FUS axis. Additionally, LBX2-AS1 positively regulated LBX2 mRNA stability via FUS. LBX2 transcriptionally modulated LBX2-AS1. In the end, rescue and in vivo experiments validated the whole regulatory mechanism.

CONCLUSION

LBX2-AS1/miR-219a-2-3p/FUS/LBX2 positive feedback loop mainly affected the proliferation and apoptosis abilities of GC cells, offering novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of patients with GC.

The Effect of Long Non-Coding RNA (lncRNA) HCP5 on Regulating Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT)-Related Markers in Gastric Carcinoma Is Partially Reversed by miR-27b-3p

Background

lncRNA HCP5 plays a cancer-promoting role in a variety of cancers. This study was the first to explore the mechanism of HCP5 in gastric carcinoma (GC).

Material/Methods

The differences in HCP5 between GC patients and healthy people were revealed in the TCGA database. The expression of HCP5 in GC tissues and adjacent tissues was compared by qRT-PCR. At the same time, the clinic pathological features of the patients were counted. Starbase and luciferase assay predicted and verified that miR-27b-3p is a targeted miRNA for HCP5. The expression of HCP5 and miR-27b-3p in various GC cells was detected by qRT-PCR. Cell viability and metastasis in different treatment groups were assessed by use of Cell Couting Kit-8 assay and clone formation assay, wound-healing assay, and transwell assay. Finally, expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-associated markers was detected by Western blot.

Results

We found that HCP5 was overexpressed in GC tissues. Patients with higher expression of HCP5 had larger tumors, were more likely to have lymph node metastasis, and had higher TNM stage. HCP5 was overexpressed in GC cells, but this was reversed by miR-27b-3p. Silencing HCP5 inhibited GC cell viability and metastasis by downregulating Vimentin and N-cadherin and up-regulating E-cadherin, but this effect was partially reversed by miR-27b-3p inhibitor.

Conclusions

The effect of silencing HCP5 on repressing GC cells viability and metastasis by regulating EMT-associated markers can be partially reversed by miR-27b-3p inhibitor.

E2F6-Mediated Downregulation of MIR22HG Facilitates the Progression of Laryngocarcinoma by Targeting the miR-5000-3p/FBXW7 Axis

Recently, abundant evidence has clarified that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play an oncogenic or anticancer role in the tumorigenesis and development of diverse human cancers. Described as a crucial regulator in some cancers, MIR22HG has not yet been studied in laryngocarcinoma and therefore the underlying regulatory role of MIR22HG in laryngocarcinoma is worth detecting. In this study, MIR22HG expression in laryngocarcinoma cells was confirmed to be downregulated, and upregulated MIR22HG expression led to suppressive effects on laryngocarcinoma cell proliferation and migration. Molecular mechanism assays revealed that MIR22HG sponges miR-5000-3p in laryngocarcinoma cells. Besides, decreased expression of miR-5000-3p suppressed laryngocarcinoma cell proliferation and migration. Moreover, the FBXW7 gene was reported to be a downstream target gene of miR-5000-3p in laryngocarcinoma cells. More importantly, rescue assays verified that FBXW7 depletion or miR-5000-3p upregulation countervailed the repressive effects of MIR22HG overexpression on laryngocarcinoma progression. In addition, E2F6 was proved to be capable of inhibiting MIR22HG transcription in laryngocarcinoma cells. To sum up, E2F6-induced downregulation of MIR22HG promotes laryngocarcinoma progression through the miR-5000-3p/FBXW7 axis.

Long noncoding RNA LINC00339 promotes the oncogenicity of gastric cancer by regulating SRY-box 9 expression via sponging of microRNA-539

Differential expression of LINC00339 is involved in the malignancy of multiple human cancer types. Nonetheless, the expression profile, functions, and potential mechanisms of action of LINC00339 in gastric cancer are yet to be fully elucidated. This study aimed at measuring LINC00339 expression in gastric cancer and examining the prognostic significance of LINC00339 in patients with gastric cancer. The detailed functions of LINC00339 with regard to the aggressive characteristics of gastric cancer cells and the underlying molecular mechanisms were investigated. Here, we found that LINC00339 expression was aberrantly high in gastric cancer and significantly associated with lymph node metastasis, invasive depth, and TNM stage. Patients with gastric cancer in a LINC00339 high-expression group showed shorter overall survival than patients in a LINC00339 low-expression group. A knockdown of LINC00339 suppressed gastric cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and induced apoptosis in vitro and slowed tumor growth in vivo. In terms of the mechanism, LINC00339 was found to act as a molecular sponge on microRNA-539 (miR-539). SRY-box 9 (SOX9) was confirmed as a direct target gene of miR-539 in gastric cancer cells. An miR-539 knockdown attenuated the effects of the LINC00339 knockdown on the malignant characteristics of gastric cancer cells. Overall, LINC00339 plays a critical role in the malignancy of gastric cancer by regulating SOX9 via sponging of miR‑539. Our findings highlight the importance of the LINC00339-miR-539-SOX9 pathway in gastric cancer pathogenesis and may point to novel targets for the diagnosis, prognosis, and/or treatment of gastric cancer.

Long noncoding RNA LINC01278 favors the progression of osteosarcoma via modulating miR-133a-3p/PTHR1 signaling

As one of the most aggressive malignancies, osteosarcoma has high risks of death. Although long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) may promote the osteosarcoma progression as verified, the potential molecular mechanism of lncRNAs in osteosarcoma remains unknown. Herein, we analyzed lncRNA microarray of osteosarcoma and selected LINC01278 as the study object. Then, we found that the expression of LINC01278 tested by quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction was enhanced in tumor tissues compared with the para-carcinoma tissues and related to clinical stage, distant metastasis in osteosarcoma. In addition, the clinical outcomes were poor in osteosarcoma patients with high LINC01278 level. Moreover, LINC01278 promoted proliferation and restrained apoptosis in osteosarcoma cells. Afterward, mechanistic studies turned out that LINC01278 was a competing endogenous RNA of parathyroid hormone type 1 receptor (PTHR1) in osteosarcoma by sponging miR-133a-3p, which was considered as a tumor inhibitor in osteosarcoma. Furthermore, PTHR1 downregulation restored the impacts of inhibited miR-133a-3p on the processes in osteosarcoma cells. Our findings clarified that the carcinogenic effect of LINC01278 in osteosarcoma was mediated through miR-133a-3p/PTHR1 signaling, creating a novel insight into good targets for the therapy and prognosis of osteosarcoma.

LncRNA SNHG16 induced by TFAP2A modulates glycolysis and proliferation of endometrial carcinoma through miR-490-3p/HK2 axis

Increasing evidence indicates the important roles of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) in the endometrial carcinoma (ECa). Here, we identified the roles of SNHG16 in the ECa proliferation and glycolysis, and revealed the underlying mechanism. Results presented that SNHG16 expression was increased in the ECa tissue and cells, and the ectopic SNHG16 overexpression was closely correlated with the poor survival rate and recurrence free survival of ECa. As regarding the upstream, transcription factor TFAP2A bound with the promotor region of SNHG16 and activated its transcription. In functional experiments, SNHG16 knockdown suppressed the proliferation, glycolysis and tumor growth of ECa cells. In mechanical experiments, SNHG16 upregulated HK2, the target gene of miR-490-3p, by competitively sponging miR-490-3p and then promoted endometrial carcinoma proliferation and glycolysis. In conclusion, this finding illustrates the vital role of SNHG16 via the TFAP2A/SNHG16/miR-490-3p/HK2 axis in the ECa proliferation and glycolysis, providing an interesting insight for the ECa tumorigenesis.

LINC00958 facilitates cervical cancer cell proliferation and metastasis by sponging miR-625-5p to upregulate LRRC8E expression

Accepted as a malignant tumor worldwide, cervical cancer (CC) has attracted much attention for its high incidence and mortality rates. Previous studies have elucidated the critical regulatory function that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) exert on the tumorigenesis and progression of diverse tumors. Although multiple investigations have depicted that LINC00958 has a great impact on the complex biological process of many cancers, knowledge concerning the regulatory role of LINC00958 in CC remains limited and needs to be further explored. In our study, LINC00958 expression was evidently overexpressed in CC tissues and cells. Besides this, LINC00958 negatively regulated miR-625-5p expression and was verified to bind with miR-625-5p in CC. Subsequently, it was testified by a series of experiments that LINC00958 promotes CC cell proliferation and metastasis by sponging miR-625-5p. Furthermore, the leucine-rich repeat containing the eight family member E (LRRC8E) could bind with miR-625-5p, and its expression was negatively modulated by miR-625-5p, whereas positively regulated by LINC00958 in CC. Final rescue assays verified the effects of LINC0095/LRRC8E interaction and miR-625-5p/LRRC8E interaction on CC cell proliferation and metastasis. Collectively, LINC00958 facilitates CC cell proliferation and metastasis via the miR-625-5p/LRRC8E axis.

Long Noncoding RNA UCA1 Accelerates Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Cell Progression By Modulating miR-124-3p/ITGB1 Axis

Background

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a common malignant cancer that is distributed particularly in Southeastern Asia. Previous studies have manifested that long noncoding RNA urothelial carcinoma associated 1 (UCA1) was involved in NPC tumorigenesis and metastasis. However, the biological mechanism of UCA1 for NPC cell progression requires further investigation.

Methods

The expression levels of UCA1, miR-124-3p, integrin beta-1 (ITGB1) were detected by qRT-PCR. Protein expression of ITGB1 was determined by Western blot assay. Cell proliferation, migration and invasion were evaluated by CCK8 and transwell assay, respectively. The interaction between miR-124-3p and UCA1 or ITGB1 was determined by luciferase reporter system, RIP and RNA pull-down assay. Mice model was established by subcutaneously injecting SUNE1 cells stably transfected with sh-UCA1 and sh-NC.

Results

The expression of UCA1 was up-regulated in NPC tissues and cells. However, UCA1 knockdown hindered NPC cell growth, migration and invasion. In addition, the interaction between miR-124-3p and UCA1 or ITGB1 was confirmed by luciferase reporter system, RIP and RNA pull-down assay. Besides, miR-124-3p inhibitor abrogated UCA1 silencing-mediated suppression on cell progression in NPC. Moreover, UCA1 accelerated NPC cell progression through modulating ITGB1 via sponging miR-124-3p. In vivo experiments revealed the interference of UCA1-inhibited tumor growth by regulating miR-124-3p/ITGB1 axis.

Conclusion

UCA1 acts as an oncogene to promote NPC cell proliferation by up-regulating ITGB1 through suppressing miR-124-3p in vitro and in vivo, providing a potential target for NPC diagnosis and treatment.

The role of oncogenic Notch2 signaling in cancer: a novel therapeutic target

Deregulated Notch signaling is a key factor thought to facilitate the stem-like proliferation of cancer cells, thereby facilitating disease progression. Four subtypes of Notch receptor have been described to date, with each playing a distinct role in cancer development and progression, therefore warranting a careful and comprehensive examination of the targeting of each receptor subtype in the context of oncogenesis. Clinical efforts to translate the DAPT, which blocks Notch signaling, have been unsuccessful due to a combination of serious gastrointestinal side effects and a lack of complete blocking efficacy. There is therefore a clear need to identify better therapeutic strategies for targeting and manipulating Notch signaling. Notch2 is a Notch receptor that is commonly overexpressed in a range of cancers, and which is linked to a unique oncogenic mechanism. Successful efforts to block Notch2 signaling will depend upon doing so both efficiently and specifically in patients. As such, in the present review we will explore the role of Notch2 signaling in the development and progression of cancer, and we will assess agents and strategies with the potential to effectively disrupt Notch2 signaling and thereby yield novel cancer treatment regimens.