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Rehman SU, Ullah N, Zhang Z, Zhen Y, Din AU, Cui H, Wang M. Recent insights into the functions and mechanisms of antisense RNA: emerging applications in cancer therapy and precision medicine. Front Chem 2024; 11:1335330. [PMID: 38274897 PMCID: PMC10809404 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2023.1335330] [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: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The antisense RNA molecule is a unique DNA transcript consisting of 19-23 nucleotides, characterized by its complementary nature to mRNA. These antisense RNAs play a crucial role in regulating gene expression at various stages, including replication, transcription, and translation. Additionally, artificial antisense RNAs have demonstrated their ability to effectively modulate gene expression in host cells. Consequently, there has been a substantial increase in research dedicated to investigating the roles of antisense RNAs. These molecules have been found to be influential in various cellular processes, such as X-chromosome inactivation and imprinted silencing in healthy cells. However, it is important to recognize that in cancer cells; aberrantly expressed antisense RNAs can trigger the epigenetic silencing of tumor suppressor genes. Moreover, the presence of deletion-induced aberrant antisense RNAs can lead to the development of diseases through epigenetic silencing. One area of drug development worth mentioning is antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), and a prime example of an oncogenic trans-acting long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) is HOTAIR (HOX transcript antisense RNA). NATs (noncoding antisense transcripts) are dysregulated in many cancers, and researchers are just beginning to unravel their roles as crucial regulators of cancer's hallmarks, as well as their potential for cancer therapy. In this review, we summarize the emerging roles and mechanisms of antisense RNA and explore their application in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahab Ur Rehman
- College of Animals Science and Technology Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Numan Ullah
- College of Animals Science and Technology Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Zhenbin Zhang
- College of Animals Science and Technology Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yongkang Zhen
- College of Animals Nutrition Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Aziz-Ud Din
- Department of Human Genetics, Hazara University Mansehra, Mansehra, Pakistan
| | - Hengmi Cui
- College of Animals Science and Technology Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Institute of Epigenetics and Epigenomics Yangzhou University, College of Animal Nutrition Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Mengzhi Wang
- College of Animals Science and Technology Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- College of Animals Nutrition Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
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2
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Hao Y, He W, Wang H, Rui W, Sun F, Zhu Y, Xu D, Wang C. Forkhead box F1 functions as a novel prognostic biomarker and induces caspase‑dependent apoptosis in bladder cancer. Oncol Rep 2023; 50:173. [PMID: 37539708 PMCID: PMC10433446 DOI: 10.3892/or.2023.8610] [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: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The downregulated expression of forkhead box F1 (FOXF1) has been found in many malignant tumors but no research was done in bladder cancer (BC). The present study aimed to investigate the prognostic value and antitumor effects of FOXF1 in patients with BC. Herein, a retrospectively recruited BC cohort and public datasets were utilized to identify the predictive ability of FOXF1 and determine its association with the clinical characteristics of BC patients. It was found that the expression level of FOXF1 was notably lower in BC tissues than in para‑cancerous mucosae. Low FOXF1 expression was associated with unfavorable clinicopathological features and poor prognosis. Furthermore, in BC cells, the mRNA and protein expression levels of FOXF1 were examined using reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR and western blot analysis. Cell viability was examined using Cell Counting Kit‑8, EdU and clonogenic capacity assays. Cell apoptosis was detected using flow cytometry. The results revealed that the activation of FOXF1 impaired cell viability and induced apoptosis in BC. The antitumor effects of FOXF1 were also validated using animal models. Subsequently, caspase‑3 was spotted as a downstream gene of FOXF1 by using RNA sequencing and protein‑protein interaction analyses. FOXF1 inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis of BC cells via caspase signaling pathway. The present study demonstrates the expression patterns, prognostic predictive ability and antitumor effects of FOXF1 in BC. FOXF1 is a favorable biomarker for predicting clinical outcomes in patients with BC and represents a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yining Hao
- Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Wei He
- Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Haofei Wang
- Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Wenbin Rui
- Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Fukang Sun
- Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Yu Zhu
- Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Danfeng Xu
- Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Chenghe Wang
- Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
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MiRNAs in Hematopoiesis and Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065436. [PMID: 36982511 PMCID: PMC10049736 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common kind of pediatric cancer. Although the cure rates in ALL have significantly increased in developed countries, still 15–20% of patients relapse, with even higher rates in developing countries. The role of non-coding RNA genes as microRNAs (miRNAs) has gained interest from researchers in regard to improving our knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying ALL development, as well as identifying biomarkers with clinical relevance. Despite the wide heterogeneity reveled in miRNA studies in ALL, consistent findings give us confidence that miRNAs could be useful to discriminate between leukemia linages, immunophenotypes, molecular groups, high-risk-for-relapse groups, and poor/good responders to chemotherapy. For instance, miR-125b has been associated with prognosis and chemoresistance in ALL, miR-21 has an oncogenic role in lymphoid malignancies, and the miR-181 family can act either as a oncomiR or tumor suppressor in several hematological malignancies. However, few of these studies have explored the molecular interplay between miRNAs and their targeted genes. This review aims to state the different ways in which miRNAs could be involved in ALL and their clinical implications.
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Roth C, Kilpinen H, Kurian MA, Barral S. Histone lysine methyltransferase-related neurodevelopmental disorders: current knowledge and saRNA future therapies. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1090046. [PMID: 36923252 PMCID: PMC10009263 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1090046] [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: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders encompass a group of debilitating diseases presenting with motor and cognitive dysfunction, with variable age of onset and disease severity. Advances in genetic diagnostic tools have facilitated the identification of several monogenic chromatin remodeling diseases that cause Neurodevelopmental disorders. Chromatin remodelers play a key role in the neuro-epigenetic landscape and regulation of brain development; it is therefore not surprising that mutations, leading to loss of protein function, result in aberrant neurodevelopment. Heterozygous, usually de novo mutations in histone lysine methyltransferases have been described in patients leading to haploinsufficiency, dysregulated protein levels and impaired protein function. Studies in animal models and patient-derived cell lines, have highlighted the role of histone lysine methyltransferases in the regulation of cell self-renewal, cell fate specification and apoptosis. To date, in depth studies of histone lysine methyltransferases in oncology have provided strong evidence of histone lysine methyltransferase dysregulation as a determinant of cancer progression and drug resistance. As a result, histone lysine methyltransferases have become an important therapeutic target for the treatment of different cancer forms. Despite recent advances, we still lack knowledge about the role of histone lysine methyltransferases in neuronal development. This has hampered both the study and development of precision therapies for histone lysine methyltransferases-related Neurodevelopmental disorders. In this review, we will discuss the current knowledge of the role of histone lysine methyltransferases in neuronal development and disease progression. We will also discuss how RNA-based technologies using small-activating RNAs could potentially provide a novel therapeutic approach for the future treatment of histone lysine methyltransferase haploinsufficiency in these Neurodevelopmental disorders, and how they could be first tested in state-of-the-art patient-derived neuronal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Roth
- Molecular Neurosciences, Developmental Neurosciences Programme, Zayed Centre for Research into Rare Disease in Children, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Helena Kilpinen
- Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Manju A Kurian
- Molecular Neurosciences, Developmental Neurosciences Programme, Zayed Centre for Research into Rare Disease in Children, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Neurology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, United Kingdom
| | - Serena Barral
- Molecular Neurosciences, Developmental Neurosciences Programme, Zayed Centre for Research into Rare Disease in Children, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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5
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RNA therapeutics: updates and future potential. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2023; 66:12-30. [PMID: 36100838 PMCID: PMC9470505 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-022-2171-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Recent advancements in the production, modification, and cellular delivery of RNA molecules facilitated the expansion of RNA-based therapeutics. The increasing understanding of RNA biology initiated a corresponding growth in RNA therapeutics. In this review, the general concepts of five classes of RNA-based therapeutics, including RNA interference-based therapies, antisense oligonucleotides, small activating RNA therapies, circular RNA therapies, and messenger RNA-based therapeutics, will be discussed. Moreover, we also provide an overview of RNA-based therapeutics that have already received regulatory approval or are currently being evaluated in clinical trials, along with challenges faced by these technologies. RNA-based drugs demonstrated positive clinical trial results and have the ability to address previously "undruggable" targets, which delivers great promise as a disruptive therapeutic technology to fulfill its full clinical potentiality.
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Xiong Y, Ke R, Zhang Q, Lan W, Yuan W, Chan KNI, Roussel T, Jiang Y, Wu J, Liu S, Wong AST, Shim JS, Zhang X, Xie R, Dusetti N, Iovanna J, Habib N, Peng L, Lee LTO. Small Activating RNA Modulation of the G Protein-Coupled Receptor for Cancer Treatment. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2200562. [PMID: 35712764 PMCID: PMC9475523 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202200562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the most common and important drug targets. However, >70% of GPCRs are undruggable or difficult to target using conventional chemical agonists/antagonists. Small nucleic acid molecules, which can sequence-specifically modulate any gene, offer a unique opportunity to effectively expand drug targets, especially those that are undruggable or difficult to address, such as GPCRs. Here, the authors report for the first time that small activating RNAs (saRNAs) effectively modulate a GPCR for cancer treatment. Specifically, saRNAs promoting the expression of Mas receptor (MAS1), a GPCR that counteracts the classical angiotensin II pathway in cancer cell proliferation and migration, are identified. These saRNAs, delivered by an amphiphilic dendrimer vector, enhance MAS1 expression, counteracting the angiotensin II/angiotensin II Receptor Type 1 axis, and leading to significant suppression of tumorigenesis and the inhibition of tumor progression of multiple cancers in tumor-xenografted mouse models and patient-derived tumor models. This study provides not only a new strategy for cancer therapy by targeting the renin-angiotensin system, but also a new avenue to modulate GPCR signaling by RNA activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunfang Xiong
- Cancer CentreFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of MacauTaipaMacau999078China
| | - Ran Ke
- Cancer CentreFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of MacauTaipaMacau999078China
| | - Qingyu Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyAffiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical UniversityZhanjiangGuangdong524001China
| | - Wenjun Lan
- Aix Marseille UniversitéCNRSCentre Interdisciplinaire de Nanoscience de Marseille (UMR 7325)Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le CancerMarseille13288France
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Marseille (CRCM)INSERM U1068CNRSAix‐Marseille Université and Institut Paoli‐CalmettesMarseille13288France
| | - Wanjun Yuan
- Cancer CentreFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of MacauTaipaMacau999078China
| | - Karol Nga Ieng Chan
- Cancer CentreFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of MacauTaipaMacau999078China
| | - Tom Roussel
- Aix Marseille UniversitéCNRSCentre Interdisciplinaire de Nanoscience de Marseille (UMR 7325)Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le CancerMarseille13288France
| | - Yifan Jiang
- Aix Marseille UniversitéCNRSCentre Interdisciplinaire de Nanoscience de Marseille (UMR 7325)Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le CancerMarseille13288France
| | - Jing Wu
- Aix Marseille UniversitéCNRSCentre Interdisciplinaire de Nanoscience de Marseille (UMR 7325)Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le CancerMarseille13288France
| | - Shuai Liu
- Cancer CentreFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of MacauTaipaMacau999078China
| | - Alice Sze Tsai Wong
- School of Biological SciencesThe University of Hong KongPokfulam RoadHong KongChina
| | - Joong Sup Shim
- Cancer CentreFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of MacauTaipaMacau999078China
- MOE Frontiers Science Center for Precision OncologyUniversity of MacauTaipaMacau999078China
| | - Xuanjun Zhang
- Cancer CentreFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of MacauTaipaMacau999078China
- MOE Frontiers Science Center for Precision OncologyUniversity of MacauTaipaMacau999078China
| | - Ruiyu Xie
- Cancer CentreFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of MacauTaipaMacau999078China
- MOE Frontiers Science Center for Precision OncologyUniversity of MacauTaipaMacau999078China
| | - Nelson Dusetti
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Marseille (CRCM)INSERM U1068CNRSAix‐Marseille Université and Institut Paoli‐CalmettesMarseille13288France
| | - Juan Iovanna
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Marseille (CRCM)INSERM U1068CNRSAix‐Marseille Université and Institut Paoli‐CalmettesMarseille13288France
| | - Nagy Habib
- Department of Surgery and CancerImperial College LondonLondonW12 0NNUK
- MiNA Therapeutics, Translation & Innovation Hub80 Wood LaneLondonW12 0BZUK
| | - Ling Peng
- Aix Marseille UniversitéCNRSCentre Interdisciplinaire de Nanoscience de Marseille (UMR 7325)Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le CancerMarseille13288France
| | - Leo Tsz On Lee
- Cancer CentreFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of MacauTaipaMacau999078China
- MOE Frontiers Science Center for Precision OncologyUniversity of MacauTaipaMacau999078China
- Centre of Reproduction, Development, and AgingFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of MacauTaipaMacau999078China
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Park KH, Yang JW, Kwon JH, Lee H, Yoon YD, Choi BJ, Lee MY, Lee CW, Han SB, Kang JS. Targeted Induction of Endogenous VDUP1 by Small Activating RNA Inhibits the Growth of Lung Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147743. [PMID: 35887091 PMCID: PMC9323751 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have reported that small double-strand RNAs (dsRNAs) can activate endogenous genes via an RNA-based promoter targeting mechanism termed RNA activation (RNAa). In the present study, we showed that dsVDUP1-834, a novel small activating RNA (saRNA) targeting promoter of vitamin D3 up-regulated protein 1 (VDUP1) gene, up-regulated expression of VDUP1 at both mRNA and protein levels in A549 lung cancer cells. We also demonstrated that dsVDUP1-834 inhibited cell proliferation in A549 lung cancer cells. Further studies showed that dsVDUP1-834 induced cell-cycle arrest by increasing p27 and p53 and decreasing cyclin A and cyclin B1. In addition, knockdown of VDUP1 abrogated dsVDUP1-834-induced up-regulation of VDUP1 gene expression and related effects. The activation of VDUP1 by dsVDUP1-834 was accompanied by an increase in dimethylation of histone 3 at lysine 4 (H3K4me2) and acetylation of histone 3 (H3ac) and a decrease in dimethylation of histone 3 at lysine 9 (H3K9me2) at the target site of VDUP1 promoter. Moreover, the enrichment of Ago2 was detected at the dsVDUP1-834 target site, and Ago2 knockdown significantly suppressed dsVDUP1-834-mediated inhibition of cell proliferation and modulation of cell-cycle regulators. Taken together, the results presented in this report demonstrate that dsVDUP1-834 induces VDUP1 gene expression by epigenetic changes, resulting in cell growth inhibition and cell-cycle arrest. Our results suggest that targeted induction of VDUP1 by dsVDUP1-834 might be a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki Hwan Park
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, 30 Yeongudanji, Cheongwon, Cheongju 28116, Chungbuk, Korea; (K.H.P.); (J.-W.Y.); (J.-H.K.); (H.L.); (Y.D.Y.); (B.J.C.); (M.Y.L.); (C.W.L.)
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, 194-21, Osongsaengmyung-1, Heungdeok, Cheongwon, Cheongju 28116, Chungbuk, Korea;
| | - Jeong-Wook Yang
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, 30 Yeongudanji, Cheongwon, Cheongju 28116, Chungbuk, Korea; (K.H.P.); (J.-W.Y.); (J.-H.K.); (H.L.); (Y.D.Y.); (B.J.C.); (M.Y.L.); (C.W.L.)
| | - Joo-Hee Kwon
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, 30 Yeongudanji, Cheongwon, Cheongju 28116, Chungbuk, Korea; (K.H.P.); (J.-W.Y.); (J.-H.K.); (H.L.); (Y.D.Y.); (B.J.C.); (M.Y.L.); (C.W.L.)
| | - Hyunju Lee
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, 30 Yeongudanji, Cheongwon, Cheongju 28116, Chungbuk, Korea; (K.H.P.); (J.-W.Y.); (J.-H.K.); (H.L.); (Y.D.Y.); (B.J.C.); (M.Y.L.); (C.W.L.)
| | - Yeo Dae Yoon
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, 30 Yeongudanji, Cheongwon, Cheongju 28116, Chungbuk, Korea; (K.H.P.); (J.-W.Y.); (J.-H.K.); (H.L.); (Y.D.Y.); (B.J.C.); (M.Y.L.); (C.W.L.)
| | - Byeong Jo Choi
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, 30 Yeongudanji, Cheongwon, Cheongju 28116, Chungbuk, Korea; (K.H.P.); (J.-W.Y.); (J.-H.K.); (H.L.); (Y.D.Y.); (B.J.C.); (M.Y.L.); (C.W.L.)
| | - Myeong Youl Lee
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, 30 Yeongudanji, Cheongwon, Cheongju 28116, Chungbuk, Korea; (K.H.P.); (J.-W.Y.); (J.-H.K.); (H.L.); (Y.D.Y.); (B.J.C.); (M.Y.L.); (C.W.L.)
| | - Chang Woo Lee
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, 30 Yeongudanji, Cheongwon, Cheongju 28116, Chungbuk, Korea; (K.H.P.); (J.-W.Y.); (J.-H.K.); (H.L.); (Y.D.Y.); (B.J.C.); (M.Y.L.); (C.W.L.)
| | - Sang-Bae Han
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, 194-21, Osongsaengmyung-1, Heungdeok, Cheongwon, Cheongju 28116, Chungbuk, Korea;
| | - Jong Soon Kang
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, 30 Yeongudanji, Cheongwon, Cheongju 28116, Chungbuk, Korea; (K.H.P.); (J.-W.Y.); (J.-H.K.); (H.L.); (Y.D.Y.); (B.J.C.); (M.Y.L.); (C.W.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-43-240-6524
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8
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Liu J, Yang T, Huang Z, Chen H, Bai Y. Transcriptional regulation of nuclear miRNAs in tumorigenesis (Review). Int J Mol Med 2022; 50:92. [PMID: 35593304 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2022.5148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) are a type of endogenous non‑coding small RNA that regulates gene expression. miRNAs regulate gene expression at the post‑transcriptional level by targeting the 3'‑untranslated region (3'UTR) of cytoplasmic messenger RNAs (mRNAs). Recent research has confirmed the presence of mature miRNAs in the nucleus, which bind nascent RNA transcripts, gene promoter or enhancer regions, and regulate gene expression via epigenetic pathways. Some miRNAs have been shown to function as oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes by modulating molecular pathways involved in human cancers. Notably, a novel molecular mechanism underlying the dysregulation of miRNA expression in cancer has recently been discovered, indicating that miRNAs may be involved in tumorigenesis via a nuclear function that influences gene transcription and epigenetic states, elucidating their potential therapeutic implications. The present review article discusses the import of nuclear miRNAs, nucleus‑cytoplasm transport mechanisms and the nuclear functions of miRNAs in cancer. In addition, some software tools for predicting miRNA binding sites are also discussed. Nuclear miRNAs supplement miRNA regulatory networks in cancer as a non‑canonical aspect of miRNA action. Further research into this aspect may be critical for understanding the role of nuclear miRNAs in the development of human cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjie Liu
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong 528225, P.R. China
| | - Tianhao Yang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong 528225, P.R. China
| | - Zishen Huang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong 528225, P.R. China
| | - Huifang Chen
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong 528225, P.R. China
| | - Yinshan Bai
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong 528225, P.R. China
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9
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Zhang YL, Kang M, Wu JC, Xie MY, Xue RY, Tang Q, Yang H, Li LC. Small activating RNA activation of ATOH1 promotes regeneration of human inner ear hair cells. Bioengineered 2022; 13:6729-6739. [PMID: 35246011 PMCID: PMC8974106 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2022.2045835] [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: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The loss of inner ear hair cells leads to irreversible acoustic injury in mammals, and regeneration of inner ear hair cells to restore hearing loss is challenging. ATOH1 is a key gene in the development and regeneration of hair cells. Small activating RNAs (saRNAs) can target a gene to specifically upregulate its expression. This study aimed to explore whether small activating RNAs could induce the differentiation of human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells into hair cell-like cells with a combination of growth factors in vitro and thus provide a new strategy for hair cell regeneration and the treatment of sensorineural hearing loss. Fifteen small activating RNAs targeting the human ATOH1 gene were designed and screened in 293 T and human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells, and 3 of these candidates were found to be capable of effectively and stably activating ATOH1 gene expression. The selected small activating RNAs were then transfected into hair cell progenitor cells, and hair cell markers were examined 10 days after transfection. After transfection of the selected small activating RNAs, the expression of the characteristic markers of inner ear hair cells, POU class 4 homeobox 3 (POU4F3) and myosin VIIA (MYO7A), was detected. Human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells have the potential to differentiate into human hair cell progenitor cells. In vitro, small activating RNAs were able to induce the differentiation of hair cell progenitor cells into hair cell-like cells. Therefore, RNA activation technology has the potential to provide a new strategy for the regeneration of hair cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Li Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Moorim Kang
- Ractigen Therapeutics, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | | | - Meng-Yao Xie
- Department of Otolaryngology, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ruo-Yan Xue
- Department of Otolaryngology, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Tang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hua Yang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Long-Cheng Li
- Ractigen Therapeutics, Nantong, Jiangsu, China.,Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
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10
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Halloy F, Biscans A, Bujold KE, Debacker A, Hill AC, Lacroix A, Luige O, Strömberg R, Sundstrom L, Vogel J, Ghidini A. Innovative developments and emerging technologies in RNA therapeutics. RNA Biol 2022; 19:313-332. [PMID: 35188077 PMCID: PMC8865321 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2022.2027150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA-based therapeutics are emerging as a powerful platform for the treatment of multiple diseases. Currently, the two main categories of nucleic acid therapeutics, antisense oligonucleotides and small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), achieve their therapeutic effect through either gene silencing, splicing modulation or microRNA binding, giving rise to versatile options to target pathogenic gene expression patterns. Moreover, ongoing research seeks to expand the scope of RNA-based drugs to include more complex nucleic acid templates, such as messenger RNA, as exemplified by the first approved mRNA-based vaccine in 2020. The increasing number of approved sequences and ongoing clinical trials has attracted considerable interest in the chemical development of oligonucleotides and nucleic acids as drugs, especially since the FDA approval of the first siRNA drug in 2018. As a result, a variety of innovative approaches is emerging, highlighting the potential of RNA as one of the most prominent therapeutic tools in the drug design and development pipeline. This review seeks to provide a comprehensive summary of current efforts in academia and industry aimed at fully realizing the potential of RNA-based therapeutics. Towards this, we introduce established and emerging RNA-based technologies, with a focus on their potential as biosensors and therapeutics. We then describe their mechanisms of action and their application in different disease contexts, along with the strengths and limitations of each strategy. Since the nucleic acid toolbox is rapidly expanding, we also introduce RNA minimal architectures, RNA/protein cleavers and viral RNA as promising modalities for new therapeutics and discuss future directions for the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- François Halloy
- Department of Paediatrics, Medical Sciences Division, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Annabelle Biscans
- Oligonucleotide Chemistry, Discovery Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&d, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Katherine E. Bujold
- Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology, McMaster University, (Ontario), Canada
| | | | - Alyssa C. Hill
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, Eth Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Aurélie Lacroix
- Sixfold Bioscience, Translation & Innovation Hub, London, UK
| | - Olivia Luige
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
| | - Roger Strömberg
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
| | - Linda Sundstrom
- Mechanistic and Structural Biology, Discovery Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&d, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jörg Vogel
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (Hiri), Helmholtz Center for Infection Research (Hzi), Würzburg, Germany
- RNA Biology Group, Institute for Molecular Infection Biology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Alice Ghidini
- Mechanistic and Structural Biology, Discovery Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&d, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
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11
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Liu H, Chen S, Sun Q, Sha Q, Tang Y, Jia W, Chen L, Zhao J, Wang T, Sun X. Let-7c increases BACE2 expression by RNAa and decreases Aβ production. Am J Transl Res 2022; 14:899-908. [PMID: 35273693 PMCID: PMC8902526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are highly conserved, non-coding transcripts that regulate gene expression in various ways. Evidence suggests that miRNAs may be a contributory factor in neurodegeneration, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and triplet repeat disorders. In order to further understand the potential roles of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of AD, we analyzed Down syndrome (DS), a special model of AD, by using a TaqMan microRNA array and found that miRNA let-7c was up-regulated in both DS and AD. ELISA assay showed that let-7c reduced the expression level of Aβ significantly. Real-time quantitative-polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was conducted to reveal that the expression level of let-7c increased dramatically in DS cells, patients with DS and mice with AD compared with normal ones respectively. Additionally, western blotting illustrated that let-7c suppressed the expression of Aβ by inducing BACE2 to cut C99 and increase the content of C83/80. BACE2 expression was inhibited by let-7c and luciferase reporter gene assay revealed that let-7c increased the activity of wild-type BACE2 promoter but not 3'UTR. Furthermore, promoter analysis of BACE2 confirmed that let-7c could bind to BACE2 in the sequence between -1368 and -1347. In addition, immunoblotting assay demonstrated that let-7c induced BACE2 expression by RNAa. To the best of our knowledge, our study revealed for the first time that let-7c up-regulated BACE2 expression and decreased Aβ production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng Liu
- School of Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong UniversityJinan 250012, Shandong, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong UniversityJinan 250012, Shandong, China
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong UniversityJinan 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Shuai Chen
- NHC Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong UniversityJinan 250012, Shandong, China
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong UniversityJinan 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Qian Sun
- NHC Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong UniversityJinan 250012, Shandong, China
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong UniversityJinan 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Qingquan Sha
- Department of Education, Qilu Hospital of Shandong UniversityJinan 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Yu Tang
- Department of Neurology, Dezhou People’s HospitalDezhou 253000, Shandong, China
| | - Wenming Jia
- NHC Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong UniversityJinan 250012, Shandong, China
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong UniversityJinan 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Long Chen
- NHC Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong UniversityJinan 250012, Shandong, China
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong UniversityJinan 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Juan Zhao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong UniversityJinan 250012, Shandong, China
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong UniversityJinan 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Tan Wang
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong UniversityJinan 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Xiulian Sun
- Brain Research Institute, Qilu Hospital of Shandong UniversityJinan 250012, Shandong, China
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12
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Small activating RNA-activated NIS gene promotes 131I uptake and inhibits thyroid cancer via AMPK/mTOR pathway. Pathol Res Pract 2021; 229:153735. [PMID: 34922208 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2021.153735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sodium/iodide symporter (NIS) acts as a vital role in regulation of iodide uptake in thyroid cancer. However, the efficient approach to increase NIS expression and the mechanism of NIS-mediated iodide uptake in thyroid cancer remain unclear. METHODS Small activating RNA (saRNA) was used to promote NIS expression. And the cell viability, apoptosis, and autophagy were detected using Cell count-kit 8 (CCK-8), Annexin V-FITC/PI double staining, and GFP-LC3 immunofluorescence assays, respectively. The protein levels of caspase 3, Bax, Bcl-2, ATG5, ATG12, LC3B Ⅱ to LC3B Ⅰ, Beclin 1, P62, AMPK, mTOR, P70S6K, actin, and phosphorylation of AMPK, mTOR, P70S6K were determined by western blotting. Moreover, a nude murine node with transplanted NC-dsRNA or NIS-482-transfected SW579 cells was used to examine the effect of NIS-mediated autophagy in vivo. And the levels of caspase 3 and ki67 were examined by immunohistochemical staining assay. RESULTS saRNA mediated NIS mRNA and protein upregulated in SW579 cells. saRNA-mediated NIS expression inhibited cell proliferation, induced apoptosis and autophagy, and promoted iodide uptake in SW579 cells. Moreover, the effects of NIS on cells were enhanced by autophagy activator Rapamycin whereas reversed by autophagy inhibitor 3-Methyladenine (3-MA). For mechanism analysis, we found that NIS upregulation exerted the effects on cell proliferation, apoptosis, autophagy, and iodide uptake via regulating AMPK/mTOR pathway. We also demonstrated that saRNA-mediated NIS expression promoted iodide uptake in vivo. CONCLUSION saRNA-mediated NIS expression acted as a critical role in increasing iodide uptake via AMPK/mTOR pathway in thyroid cancer.
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Nazer E, Gómez Acuña L, Kornblihtt AR. Seeking the truth behind the myth: Argonaute tales from "nuclearland". Mol Cell 2021; 82:503-513. [PMID: 34856122 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2021.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Argonaute proteins have been traditionally characterized as a highly evolutionary conserved family engaged in post-transcriptional gene silencing pathways. The Argonaute family is mainly grouped into the AGO and PIWI clades. The canonical role of Argonaute proteins relies on their ability to bind small-RNAs that recognize complementary sequences on target mRNAs to induce either mRNA degradation or translational repression. However, there is an increasing amount of evidence supporting that Argonaute proteins also exert multiple nuclear functions that subsequently regulate gene expression. In this line, genome-wide studies showed that members from the AGO clade regulate transcription, 3D chromatin organization, and splicing of active loci located within euchromatin. Here, we discuss recent work based on high-throughput technologies that have significantly contributed to shed light on the multivariate nuclear functions of AGO proteins in different model organisms. We also analyze data supporting that AGO proteins are able to execute these nuclear functions independently from small RNA pathways. Finally, we integrate these mechanistic insights with recent reports highlighting the clinical importance of AGO in breast and prostate cancer development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ezequiel Nazer
- Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Departamento de Fisiología, Biología Molecular y Celular and CONICET-UBA, Instituto de Fisiología, Biología Molecular y Neurociencias (IFIBYNE), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Luciana Gómez Acuña
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Crewe Road, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK
| | - Alberto R Kornblihtt
- Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Departamento de Fisiología, Biología Molecular y Celular and CONICET-UBA, Instituto de Fisiología, Biología Molecular y Neurociencias (IFIBYNE), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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14
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Tan CP, Sinigaglia L, Gomez V, Nicholls J, Habib NA. RNA Activation-A Novel Approach to Therapeutically Upregulate Gene Transcription. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26216530. [PMID: 34770939 PMCID: PMC8586927 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26216530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA activation (RNAa) is a mechanism whereby RNA oligos complementary to genomic sequences around the promoter region of genes increase the transcription output of their target gene. Small activating RNA (saRNA) mediate RNAa through interaction with protein co-factors to facilitate RNA polymerase II activity and nucleosome remodeling. As saRNA are small, versatile and safe, they represent a new class of therapeutics that can rescue the downregulation of critical genes in disease settings. This review highlights our current understanding of saRNA biology and describes various examples of how saRNA are successfully used to treat various oncological, neurological and monogenic diseases. MTL-CEBPA, a first-in-class compound that reverses CEBPA downregulation in oncogenic processes using CEBPA-51 saRNA has entered clinical trial for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Preclinical models demonstrate that MTL-CEBPA reverses the immunosuppressive effects of myeloid cells and allows for the synergistic enhancement of other anticancer drugs. Encouraging results led to the initiation of a clinical trial combining MTL-CEBPA with a PD-1 inhibitor for treatment of solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Choon Ping Tan
- MiNA Therapeutics Ltd., Translation & Innovation Hub, 84 Wood Lane, London W12 0BZ, UK; (C.P.T.); (L.S.); (V.G.); (J.N.)
| | - Laura Sinigaglia
- MiNA Therapeutics Ltd., Translation & Innovation Hub, 84 Wood Lane, London W12 0BZ, UK; (C.P.T.); (L.S.); (V.G.); (J.N.)
| | - Valentí Gomez
- MiNA Therapeutics Ltd., Translation & Innovation Hub, 84 Wood Lane, London W12 0BZ, UK; (C.P.T.); (L.S.); (V.G.); (J.N.)
| | - Joanna Nicholls
- MiNA Therapeutics Ltd., Translation & Innovation Hub, 84 Wood Lane, London W12 0BZ, UK; (C.P.T.); (L.S.); (V.G.); (J.N.)
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - Nagy A. Habib
- MiNA Therapeutics Ltd., Translation & Innovation Hub, 84 Wood Lane, London W12 0BZ, UK; (C.P.T.); (L.S.); (V.G.); (J.N.)
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London W12 0NN, UK
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-(0)20-3313-8574
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15
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Chu Y, Yokota S, Liu J, Kilikevicius A, Johnson KC, Corey DR. Argonaute binding within human nuclear RNA and its impact on alternative splicing. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2021; 27:991-1003. [PMID: 34108230 PMCID: PMC8370746 DOI: 10.1261/rna.078707.121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian RNA interference (RNAi) is often linked to the regulation of gene expression in the cytoplasm. Synthetic RNAs, however, can also act through the RNAi pathway to regulate transcription and splicing. While nuclear regulation by synthetic RNAs can be robust, a critical unanswered question is whether endogenous functions for nuclear RNAi exist in mammalian cells. Using enhanced crosslinking immunoprecipitation (eCLIP) in combination with RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and multiple AGO knockout cell lines, we mapped AGO2 protein binding sites within nuclear RNA. The strongest AGO2 binding sites were mapped to micro RNAs (miRNAs). The most abundant miRNAs were distributed similarly between the cytoplasm and nucleus, providing no evidence for mechanisms that facilitate localization of miRNAs in one compartment versus the other. Beyond miRNAs, most statistically significant AGO2 binding was within introns. Splicing changes were confirmed by RT-PCR and recapitulated by synthetic miRNA mimics complementary to the sites of AGO2 binding. These data support the hypothesis that miRNAs can control gene splicing. While nuclear RNAi proteins have the potential to be natural regulatory mechanisms, careful study will be necessary to identify critical RNA drivers of normal physiology and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongjun Chu
- UT Southwestern Medical Center, Departments of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Dallas, Texas 75205, USA
| | - Shinnichi Yokota
- UT Southwestern Medical Center, Departments of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Dallas, Texas 75205, USA
| | - Jing Liu
- UT Southwestern Medical Center, Departments of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Dallas, Texas 75205, USA
| | - Audrius Kilikevicius
- UT Southwestern Medical Center, Departments of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Dallas, Texas 75205, USA
| | - Krystal C Johnson
- UT Southwestern Medical Center, Departments of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Dallas, Texas 75205, USA
| | - David R Corey
- UT Southwestern Medical Center, Departments of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Dallas, Texas 75205, USA
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16
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Yang K, Shen J, Tan FQ, Zheng XY, Xie LP. Antitumor Activity of Small Activating RNAs Induced PAWR Gene Activation in Human Bladder Cancer Cells. Int J Med Sci 2021; 18:3039-3049. [PMID: 34220332 PMCID: PMC8241776 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.60399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Small double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) have been proved to effectively up-regulate the expression of particular genes by targeting their promoters. These small dsRNAs were also termed small activating RNAs (saRNAs). We previously reported that several small double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) targeting the PRKC apoptosis WT1 regulator (PAWR) promoter can up-regulate PAWR gene expression effectively in human cancer cells. The present study was conducted to evaluate the antitumor potential of PAWR gene induction by these saRNAs in bladder cancer. Promisingly, we found that up-regulation of PAWR by saRNA inhibited the growth of bladder cancer cells by inducing cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest which was related to inhibition of anti‑apoptotic protein Bcl-2 and inactivation of the NF-κB and Akt pathways. The activation of the caspase cascade and the regulation of cell cycle related proteins also supported the efficacy of the treatment. Moreover, our study also showed that these saRNAs cooperated with cisplatin in the inhibition of bladder cancer cells. Overall, these data suggest that activation of PAWR by saRNA may have a therapeutic benefit for bladder cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Yang
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, P.R. China
| | - Jie Shen
- Department of Pharmacy, Traditional Chinese Medical Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, P.R. China
| | - Fu-Qing Tan
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, P.R. China
| | - Xiang-Yi Zheng
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, P.R. China
| | - Li-Ping Xie
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, P.R. China
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17
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Cring MR, Sheffield VC. Gene therapy and gene correction: targets, progress, and challenges for treating human diseases. Gene Ther 2020; 29:3-12. [PMID: 33037407 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-020-00197-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The field of gene therapy has made significant strides over the last several decades toward the treatment of previously untreatable genetic disease. Gene therapy techniques have been aimed at mitigating disease features of recessive and dominant disorders, as well as several cancers and other diseases. While there have been numerous disease targets of gene therapy trials, only four therapies have reached FDA and/or EMA approval for clinical use. Gene correction using CRISPR-Cas9 is an extension of gene therapy that has received considerable attention in recent years and boasts many possible uses beyond classical gene therapy approaches. While there is significant therapeutic potential using gene therapy and gene correction strategies, a number of hurdles remain to be overcome before they become more common in clinical use, particularly with regards to safety and efficacy. As research progresses in this exciting field, it is likely that these therapies will become first-line treatments and will have tremendous positive impacts on the lives of patients with genetic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew R Cring
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics and Genomics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Val C Sheffield
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics and Genomics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA. .,Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.
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18
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miRNA551b-3p Activates an Oncostatin Signaling Module for the Progression of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Cell Rep 2020; 29:4389-4406.e10. [PMID: 31875548 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.11.085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2018] [Revised: 06/16/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Genomic amplification of 3q26.2 locus leads to the increased expression of microRNA 551b-3p (miR551b-3p) in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Our results demonstrate that miR551b-3p translocates to the nucleus with the aid of importin-8 (IPO8) and activates STAT3 transcription. As a consequence, miR551b upregulates the expression of oncostatin M receptor (OSMR) and interleukin-31 receptor-α (IL-31RA) as well as their ligands OSM and IL-31 through STAT3 transcription. We defined this set of genes induced by miR551b-3p as the "oncostatin signaling module," which provides oncogenic addictions in cancer cells. Notably, OSM is highly expressed in TNBC, and the elevated expression of OSM associates with poor outcome in estrogen-receptor-negative breast cancer patients. Conversely, targeting miR551b with anti-miR551b-3p reduced the expression of the OSM signaling module and reduced tumor growth, as well as migration and invasion of breast cancer cells.
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19
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Zhang Q, Yang X, Luo L, Ma X, Jiao W, Li B, Zhang M, Zhao K, Niu H. Targeted p21 activation by a new double stranded RNA suppresses human prostate cancer cells growth and metastasis. Am J Transl Res 2020; 12:4175-4188. [PMID: 32913496 PMCID: PMC7476130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
We have previously demonstrated that miR-1236-3p and its sequence homology dsRNA, dsRNA-245 (which is completely complementary to the p21 promoter) had potential ability to upregulate p21 expression by targeting specific promoter sequence and inhibited bladder cancer (BCa). However, we still know little about the effect of miR-1236-3p on prostate cancer and which dsRNA has an inhibitory effect on prostate cancer (PCa)? Here, we confirmed that miR-1236-3p was decreased in PCa cells and tissues. MiR-1236-3p inhibited PCa cells growth and metastasis by activating p21. Furthermore, we demonstrated that dsP21-245 could inhibit PCa cells growth and metastasis by activating p21 expression. Microarray experiments displayed that miR-1236-3p could affect AKT signaling pathway. We demonstrated that miR-1236-3p significantly suppressed the AKT pathway by inhibiting TLR2 expression while activating p21 expression in PCa cells; this influence was independent of p21 activation. In summary, our results provided evidence that both endogenous and exogenous small RNAs might function to induce p21 expression by interacting with the same promoter region, therefore impeding PCa development. Additionally, our results indicated that miRNA activation could activate the expression of some unknown genes as well as cell signaling pathways. This indicated the need for the further study of clinical applications of RNA activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingsong Zhang
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University Qingdao, China
| | - Xuecheng Yang
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University Qingdao, China
| | - Lei Luo
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University Qingdao, China
| | - Xiaocheng Ma
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University Qingdao, China
| | - Wei Jiao
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University Qingdao, China
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University Qingdao, China
| | - Mingxin Zhang
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University Qingdao, China
| | - Kaidong Zhao
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University Qingdao, China
| | - Haitao Niu
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University Qingdao, China
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20
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Zhou LY, Qin Z, Zhu YH, He ZY, Xu T. Current RNA-based Therapeutics in Clinical Trials. Curr Gene Ther 2020; 19:172-196. [PMID: 31566126 DOI: 10.2174/1566523219666190719100526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Long-term research on various types of RNAs has led to further understanding of diverse mechanisms, which eventually resulted in the rapid development of RNA-based therapeutics as powerful tools in clinical disease treatment. Some of the developing RNA drugs obey the antisense mechanisms including antisense oligonucleotides, small interfering RNAs, microRNAs, small activating RNAs, and ribozymes. These types of RNAs could be utilized to inhibit/activate gene expression or change splicing to provide functional proteins. In the meantime, some others based on different mechanisms like modified messenger RNAs could replace the dysfunctional endogenous genes to manage some genetic diseases, and aptamers with special three-dimensional structures could bind to specific targets in a high-affinity manner. In addition, the recent most popular CRISPR-Cas technology, consisting of a crucial single guide RNA, could edit DNA directly to generate therapeutic effects. The desired results from recent clinical trials indicated the great potential of RNA-based drugs in the treatment of various diseases, but further studies on improving delivery materials and RNA modifications are required for the novel RNA-based drugs to translate to the clinic. This review focused on the advances and clinical studies of current RNA-based therapeutics, analyzed their challenges and prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling-Yan Zhou
- Department of Pharmacy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Zhou Qin
- Department of Pharmacy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Yang-Hui Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China.,State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Zhi-Yao He
- Department of Pharmacy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China.,State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Ting Xu
- Department of Pharmacy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
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21
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Liu Y, Shi SL. The roles of hnRNP A2/B1 in RNA biology and disease. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-RNA 2020; 12:e1612. [PMID: 32588964 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The RNA-binding protein hnRNPA2/B1 is a member of the hnRNPs family and is widely expressed in various tissues. hnRNPA2/B1 recognizes and binds specific RNA substrates and DNA motifs and is involved in the transcription, splicing processing, transport, stability, and translation regulation of a variety of RNA molecules and in regulating the expression of a large number of genes. hnRNPA2/B1 is also involved in telomere maintenance and DNA repair, while its expression changes and mutations are involved in the development of various tumors and neurodegenerative and autoimmune diseases. This paper reviews the role and mechanism of hnRNPA2/B1 in RNA metabolism, tumors, and neurodegenerative and autoimmune diseases. This article is categorized under: RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein-RNA Interactions: Functional Implications RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Liu
- Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Song-Lin Shi
- Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
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22
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Developing small activating RNA as a therapeutic: current challenges and promises. Ther Deliv 2020; 10:151-164. [PMID: 30909853 DOI: 10.4155/tde-2018-0061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA activation (RNAa) allows specific gene upregulation mediated by a small activating RNA (saRNA). Harnessing this process would help in developing novel therapeutics for undruggable diseases. Since its discovery in mid 2000s, improvements of saRNA design, synthetic chemistry and understanding of the biology have matured the way to apply RNAa. Indeed, MiNA therapeutics Ltd has conducted the first RNAa clinical trial for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma patients with promising outcomes. However, to fully realize the RNAa potential better saRNA delivery strategies are needed to target other diseases. Currently, saRNA can be delivered in vivo by lipid nanoparticles, dendrimers, lipid and polymer hybrids and aptamers. Further developing these delivery technologies and novel application of RNAa will prove to be invaluable for new treatment development.
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23
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Li X, Wang X, Cheng Z, Zhu Q. AGO2 and its partners: a silencing complex, a chromatin modulator, and new features. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2020; 55:33-53. [DOI: 10.1080/10409238.2020.1738331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojing Li
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xueying Wang
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zeneng Cheng
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qubo Zhu
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
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24
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Zheng B, Mai Q, Jiang J, Zhou Q. The Therapeutic Potential of Small Activating RNAs for Colorectal Carcinoma. Curr Gene Ther 2019; 19:140-146. [PMID: 31284860 DOI: 10.2174/1566523219666190708111404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Revised: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Small double-strand RNAs have been recognized as master regulators of gene expression.
In contrast to the evolutionary conserved RNA interference machinery, which degrades or inhibits the
translation of target mRNAs, small activating RNA (saRNA) activates the specific gene in a target dependent
manner through a similar mechanism as RNAi. Recently, saRNA mediated expression regulation
of specific genes has been extensively studied in cancer researches. Of particular interest is the
application of the RNA mediated gene activation within colorectal cancer (CRC) development, due to
the high incidence of the CRC. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of saRNA mediated
genetic activation and its underlying mechanisms. Furthermore, we highlight the advantages of
the utilization of saRNAs induced gene expression as an investigating tool in colorectal cancer research.
Finally, the possibility and the challenge of the saRNA application as a potential therapy for
colorectal cancer are addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Zheng
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - QingYun Mai
- The Center for Reproductive medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - JinXing Jiang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - QinQin Zhou
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
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25
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Abstract
The phenomenon of RNA activation (RNAa) was initially discovered by Li and colleagues about a decade ago. Subsequently, gene activation by exogenously expressed small activating RNA has been demonstrated in different cellular contexts by a number of laboratories. Conceivably, endogenously expressed microRNAs may also utilize RNA activation as a cellular mechanism for gene regulation, which may be dysregulated in disease states such as cancer. RNA activation can be applied to gain-of-function studies and holds great promise for disease intervention. This chapter will discuss examples of promoter-targeting microRNAs discovered in recent years and their pathophysiological relevance. I will also briefly touch upon other novel classes of microRNAs with positive gene regulatory roles, including TATA-box-activating microRNAs and enhancer-associated microRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Huang
- Molecular Stethoscope, Inc., 10835 Road to the Cure, Suite 100, San Diego, CA, 92121, USA.
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26
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Ramchandran R, Chaluvally-Raghavan P. miRNA-Mediated RNA Activation in Mammalian Cells. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019. [PMID: 28639193 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-10-4310-9_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNA (miRNA or miR) is a small noncoding RNA molecule ~22 nucleotides in size, which is found in plants, animals, and some viruses. miRNAs are thought to primarily down regulate gene expression by binding to 3' untranslated regions of target transcripts, thereby triggering mRNA cleavage or repression of translation. Recently, evidence has emerged that miRNAs can interact with the promoter and activate gene expression. This mechanism, called RNA activation (RNAa), is a process of transcriptional activation where the direct interaction of miRNA on the promoter triggers the recruitment of transcription factors and RNA-Polymerase-II on the promoter to activate gene transcription. To date, very little is known about the mechanism by which miRNA regulates RNA activation (RNAa) and their role in tumor progression. This is an emerging field in RNA biology. In this chapter, we describe the mechanisms utilized by miRNAs to activate transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramani Ramchandran
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA
| | - Pradeep Chaluvally-Raghavan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA. .,Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA.
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27
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Baldrich P, Rutter BD, Karimi HZ, Podicheti R, Meyers BC, Innes RW. Plant Extracellular Vesicles Contain Diverse Small RNA Species and Are Enriched in 10- to 17-Nucleotide "Tiny" RNAs. THE PLANT CELL 2019; 31:315-324. [PMID: 30705133 PMCID: PMC6447009 DOI: 10.1105/tpc.18.00872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Revised: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Small RNAs (sRNAs) that are 21 to 24 nucleotides (nt) in length are found in most eukaryotic organisms and regulate numerous biological functions, including transposon silencing, development, reproduction, and stress responses, typically via control of the stability and/or translation of target mRNAs. Major classes of sRNAs in plants include microRNAs (miRNAs) and small interfering RNAs (siRNAs); sRNAs are known to travel as a silencing signal from cell to cell, root to shoot, and even between host and pathogen. In mammals, sRNAs are transported inside extracellular vesicles (EVs), which are mobile membrane-bound compartments that participate in intercellular communication. In addition to sRNAs, EVs carry proteins, lipids, metabolites, and potentially other types of nucleic acids. Here we report that Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) EVs also contain diverse species of sRNA. We found that specific miRNAs and siRNAs are preferentially loaded into plant EVs. We also report a previously overlooked class of "tiny RNAs" (10 to 17 nt) that are highly enriched in EVs. This RNA category of unknown function has a broad and very diverse genome origin and might correspond to degradation products.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Brian D Rutter
- Department of Biology, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana 47405
| | - Hana Zand Karimi
- Department of Biology, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana 47405
| | - Ram Podicheti
- Department of Biology, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana 47405
| | - Blake C Meyers
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, St. Louis, Missouri 63132
- University of Missouri-Columbia, Division of Plant Sciences, Columbia, Missouri 65211
| | - Roger W Innes
- Department of Biology, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana 47405
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28
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Yoon S, Rossi JJ. Therapeutic Potential of Small Activating RNAs (saRNAs) in Human Cancers. Curr Pharm Biotechnol 2018; 19:604-610. [PMID: 29804529 PMCID: PMC6204660 DOI: 10.2174/1389201019666180528084059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Background: RNA is increasingly recognized as a powerful molecule that can be used to control gene expression. Sophisticated, well-engineered RNA-based regulators are being developed as oligotherapeutics. Methods: In particular, small activating RNAs (saRNAs) are promising therapeutic options for targeting human diseases. Numerous saRNAs targeting multiple cancers have been developed in preclinical models. One saRNA targeting C/EBPα is currently undergoing clinical trials in liver cancer. Results and Conclusion: In this review, we describe the current working model of the intracellular mechanism of saRNA, discuss the recent progress of saRNA therapeutics in preclinical and clinical trials, and current advances in targeted delivery using aptamers in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sorah Yoon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, United States
| | - John J Rossi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, United States.,Irell and Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, United States
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29
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Laham-Karam N, Laitinen P, Turunen TA, Ylä-Herttuala S. Activating the Chromatin by Noncoding RNAs. Antioxid Redox Signal 2018; 29:813-831. [PMID: 28699365 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2017.7248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
SIGNIFICANCE The extent and breadth of transcription have recently been uncovered and this has revealed an extensive array of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs). The biological role and significance of these ncRNAs have been realized and to date it appears that ncRNAs may have many important regulatory functions. ncRNAs are multifaceted and they induce a complexity of different types of transcriptional and posttranscriptional regulation, including gene activation. Recent Advances: Association of ncRNAs with gene activation is an important finding. Not only enhancer RNA (eRNA) but other types of ncRNAs, including small RNA (sRNA), long-noncoding RNA (lncRNA), microRNA (miRNA), and PIWI-associated RNA (piRNA), have also been implicated in gene activation. Interestingly, they often coincide with histone modifications that favor an open chromatin. In addition, these ncRNAs can recruit key factors important for transcription, including RNA polymerase II. They may directly bind the genomic DNA or act as scaffolds; alternatively, they may loop the chromatin to enhance transcription. CRITICAL ISSUES Although the role of small activating (sa)RNAs has been considerably studied, the roles of miRNAs and piRNAs in gene activation still need to be substantiated and issues of specificity require further studies. FUTURE DIRECTIONS The ncRNA field is coming out of its infancy and we are gaining a global picture of the importance of ncRNAs. However, detailed mechanisms of action of the different ncRNAs are still to be determined. This may reveal novel ways of transcriptional regulation, which will facilitate our ability to utilize these regulatory pathways for research and therapeutic purposes. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 29, 813-831.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nihay Laham-Karam
- 1 A.I. Virtanen Institute, University of Eastern Finland , Kuopio, Finland
| | - Pia Laitinen
- 1 A.I. Virtanen Institute, University of Eastern Finland , Kuopio, Finland
| | - Tiia A Turunen
- 1 A.I. Virtanen Institute, University of Eastern Finland , Kuopio, Finland
| | - Seppo Ylä-Herttuala
- 1 A.I. Virtanen Institute, University of Eastern Finland , Kuopio, Finland .,2 Heart Center, Kuopio University Hospital , Kuopio, Finland .,3 Gene Therapy Unit, Kuopio University Hospital , Kuopio, Finland
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30
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Chen H, Shen HX, Lin YW, Mao YQ, Liu B, Xie LP. Small RNA-induced INTS6 gene up-regulation suppresses castration-resistant prostate cancer cells by regulating β-catenin signaling. Cell Cycle 2018; 17:1602-1613. [PMID: 29895194 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2018.1475825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Small RNAs play an important role in gene regulatory networks. The gene suppressive effect of small RNAs was previously the dominant focus of studies, but during the recent decade, small RNA-induced gene activation has been reported and has become a notable gene manipulation technique. In this study, a putative tumor suppressor, INTS6, was activated by introducing a promoter-targeted small RNA (dsRNA-915) into castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) cells. Unique dynamics associated with the gene upregulation phenomenon was observed. Following gene activation, cell proliferation and motility were suppressed in vitro. Downregulation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling was observed during the activation period, and the impairment of β-catenin degradation reversed the tumor suppressor effects of INTS6. These results suggest the potential application of small activating RNAs in targeted gene therapy for CRPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Chen
- a Department of Urology , The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University , Hangzhou , Zhejiang Province , China
| | - Hai-Xiang Shen
- a Department of Urology , The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University , Hangzhou , Zhejiang Province , China
| | - Yi-Wei Lin
- a Department of Urology , The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University , Hangzhou , Zhejiang Province , China
| | - Ye-Qing Mao
- a Department of Urology , The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University , Hangzhou , Zhejiang Province , China
| | - Ben Liu
- a Department of Urology , The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University , Hangzhou , Zhejiang Province , China
| | - Li-Ping Xie
- a Department of Urology , The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University , Hangzhou , Zhejiang Province , China
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31
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Wang J, Li H, Xie D, Li L, Wang J, Peng L, Zhou Y. The reactivation of P53 by saRNA affects the biological behavior in vitro in gastric cancer cells. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CLINICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL PATHOLOGY 2018; 11:3157-3164. [PMID: 31938445 PMCID: PMC6958090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
This study sought to verify the reactivation effect of dsP53-285 that can up-regulate P53 expression in vitro. In addition, we explored the reactivation effect that dsP53-285 has on the biological behavior of gastric cancer cells. The specific small activating RNA (saRNA), dsP53-285, targeting the P53 gene promoter was synthesized. Also, a double strained control RNA (dsControl) was synthesized as a negative control, and then siP53 was synthesized to exclude the off-target effect. Both BGC-823 and MGC-803 cells were transfected with the corresponding microRNA, or just treated with lipofectamine2000. RT-qPCR and Western blot were adopted to detect P53 mRNA or the protein content of each group. CCK-8 was adopted to detect the proliferation of each group. The migration ability was assessed using the scratch-wound assay. The results of RT-qPCR and Western blot showed that dsP53-285 caused a significant up-regulation of the P53 gene (P<0.01), and the expression level of the P21 gene changed with the reactivation. The CCK-8 showed that, compared to the control group, the proliferation ability of the dsP53-285 group was inhibited significantly (P<0.01). The reactivation effect was in a time-course manner. The wound scratch assay proved that, compared to the control group, the migration ability of dsP53-285 group was inhibited significantly (P<0.01). This phenomenon provides a theoretical basis for the carcinostatic activity of small activating RNA (saRNA) and might indicate a new targeted treatment option for gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- Department of Human Anatomy, Qingdao University Medical CollegeShandong, China
| | - Han Li
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao UniversityShandong, China
| | - Detian Xie
- Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese MedicineShandong, China
| | - Leping Li
- Department of General Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong UniversityShandong, China
| | - Jinshen Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong UniversityShandong, China
| | - Lipan Peng
- Department of General Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong UniversityShandong, China
| | - Yanbing Zhou
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao UniversityShandong, China
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32
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Yu D, Ma X, Zuo Z, Wang H, Meng Y. Classification of Transcription Boundary-Associated RNAs (TBARs) in Animals and Plants. Front Genet 2018; 9:168. [PMID: 29868116 PMCID: PMC5960741 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2018.00168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
There is increasing evidence suggesting the contribution of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) to the phenotypic and physiological complexity of organisms. A novel ncRNA species has been identified near the transcription boundaries of protein-coding genes in eukaryotes, bacteria, and archaea. This review provides a detailed description of these transcription boundary-associated RNAs (TBARs), including their classification. Based on their genomic distribution, TBARs are divided into two major groups: promoter-associated RNAs (PARs) and terminus-associated RNAs (TARs). Depending on the sequence length, each group is further classified into long RNA species (>200 nt) and small RNA species (<200 nt). According to these rules of TBAR classification, divergent ncRNAs with confusing nomenclatures, such as promoter upstream transcripts (PROMPTs), upstream antisense RNAs (uaRNAs), stable unannotated transcripts (SUTs), cryptic unstable transcripts (CUTs), upstream non-coding transcripts (UNTs), transcription start site-associated RNAs (TSSaRNAs), transcription initiation RNAs (tiRNAs), and transcription termination site-associated RNAs (TTSaRNAs), were assigned to specific classes. Although the biogenesis pathways of PARs and TARs have not yet been clearly elucidated, previous studies indicate that some of the PARs have originated either through divergent transcription or via RNA polymerase pausing. Intriguing findings regarding the functional implications of the TBARs such as the long-range “gene looping” model, which explains their role in the transcriptional regulation of protein-coding genes, are also discussed. Altogether, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the current research status of TBARs, which will promote further investigations in this research area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongliang Yu
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoxia Ma
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ziwei Zuo
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Huizhong Wang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yijun Meng
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
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33
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Li C, Liu J, Zhang Q, Cui K, Ge Q, Wang C, Chen Z. Upregulation of E‑cadherin expression mediated by a novel dsRNA suppresses the growth and metastasis of bladder cancer cells by inhibiting β-catenin/TCF target genes. Int J Oncol 2018; 52:1815-1826. [PMID: 29620261 PMCID: PMC5919711 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2018.4346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2017] [Accepted: 03/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Low expression levels of E-cadherin are correlated with poor prognosis in patients with bladder cancer (BCa). A small activating RNA (saRNA) targeting a specific promoter region can activate gene expression. In the present study, two small double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) targeting the promoter region of human E-cadherin were designed and synthesized, and the regulatory role of saRNAs in E-cadherin expression was investigated. The results of reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting demonstrated that transfection of dsEcad-346 into the BCa cell lines T24 and 5637 significantly activated E-cadherin expression. Furthermore, transfection of dsEcad-346 and miR-373 induced cell cycle arrest in G0/G1 phase, promoted apoptosis and significantly inhibited migration and invasion of BCa cells. Results of immunofluorescence and western blotting indicated that β-catenin was redistributed from the nucleus to the cell membrane following transfection of dsEcad-346 and miR-373. Additionally, the expression of β-catenin/T-cell factor complex (TCF) target genes (c-MYC, matrix metallopeptidase 2, cyclin D1) was suppressed following transfection of BCa cells with saRNA. Silencing of E-cadherin expression blocked the inhibitory effect of dsEcad-346 and miR-373 on BCa cells. In conclusion, a novel designed dsEcad-346 can activate the expression of E-cadherin in BCa cells. saRNA-mediated activation of E-cadherin expression inhibited the growth and metastasis of BCa cells by promoting the redistribution of β-catenin from nucleus to cell membrane and inhibiting the β-catenin/TCF target genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanchang Li
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - Jiaxuan Liu
- Department of Pathology, Changzheng Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200003, P.R. China
| | - Qingsong Zhang
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - Kai Cui
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - Qiangqiang Ge
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - Chenghe Wang
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - Zhong Chen
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
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34
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Vaschetto LM. miRNA activation is an endogenous gene expression pathway. RNA Biol 2018; 15:826-828. [PMID: 29537927 PMCID: PMC6152443 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2018.1451722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2018] [Accepted: 03/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Transfection of small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) molecules has become a routine technique widely used for silencing gene expression by triggering post-transcriptional and transcriptional RNA interference (RNAi) pathways. Moreover, in the past decade, small activating (saRNA) sequences targeting promoter regions were also reported, thereby a RNA-based gene activation (RNAa) mechanism has been proposed. In this regard, Turner and colleagues recently discovered an endogenous microRNA (miRNA) which binds its promoter in order to upregulate its own expression. Interestingly, several miRNA-induced RNA activation (miRNAa) phenomena have since then been identified. My objective here is to introduce the reader into the emergent miRNAa research field, as well as bring together important discoveries about this unexplored transcriptional activation pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis M. Vaschetto
- Instituto de Diversidad y Ecología Animal, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (IDEA, CONICET), Av. Vélez Sarsfield 299, X5000JJC Córdoba, Argentina
- Cátedra de Diversidad Animal I, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, (FCEFyN, UNC), Av. Vélez Sarsfield 299, X5000JJC Córdoba, Argentina
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35
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Wang XY, Yuan L, Li YL, Gan SJ, Ren L, Zhang F, Jiang J, Qi XW. RNA activation technique and its applications in cancer research. Am J Cancer Res 2018; 8:584-593. [PMID: 29736305 PMCID: PMC5934550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2018] [Accepted: 03/12/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA activation (RNAa) is a mechanism of gene activation mediated by small activating RNAs. The activation of gene expression by small activating RNA has excellent targeting specificity and flexibility, with a persistent and strong effect. Studies have shown that the RNAa technique has broad prospects for application in the research on tumor pathogenesis and the treatment of tumors. This paper reviews the literature on RNAa with regard to the course of discovery, the mechanisms and characteristics of action, and the current status and prospects of application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Yu Wang
- Breast Disease Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Long Yuan
- Breast Disease Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Yan-Ling Li
- Breast Disease Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Si-Jie Gan
- Breast Disease Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Lin Ren
- Breast Disease Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Fan Zhang
- Breast Disease Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Jun Jiang
- Breast Disease Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Xiao-Wei Qi
- Breast Disease Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University Chongqing 400038, China
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36
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Zhang Q, Miao S, Li C, Cui K, Ge Q, Chen Z. S-phase kinase-associated protein 2 impairs the inhibitory effects of miR-1236-3p on bladder tumors. Am J Transl Res 2018; 10:731-743. [PMID: 29636863 PMCID: PMC5883114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Accepted: 02/05/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
We have previously demonstrated that miR-1236-3p has the robust ability to up-regulate p21 expression by targeting the p21 promoter, thus inhibiting bladder cancer progression. Microarray experiments displayed that miR-1236-3p significantly increased the expression of the oncogenic F-box protein S-phase kinase-associate protein 2 (Skp2) while activating p21 expression in bladder cancer cells. Here, we confirmed that Skp2 was over-expressed following transfection with miR-1236-3p. Further, we demonstrated that miR-1236-3p and its sequence homology dsRNA, dsRNA-245 (which is completely complementary to the p21 promoter), both are able to potently induce p21 expression. We found that dsRNA-245 did not induce changes in Skp2 expression, while miR-1236-3p could increase Skp2 expression; this influence was independent of p21 activation. Moreover, transfection of miR-1236-3p or dsRNA-245 into bladder cancer cells significantly inhibited cell proliferation and clonegenesis and induced cell cycle arrest mainly by regulating p21 expression. However, the growth inhibition caused by dsRNA-245 was more effective than that caused by miR-1236-3p. This difference in effect size is mainly related to the miR-1236-3p-induced expression of Skp2. In summary, our results provided evidence that both endogenous and exogenous small RNAs might function to induce p21 expression by interacting with the same promoter region, therefore impeding bladder cancer cell growth. Additionally, our results indicated that microRNA activation can activate the expression of some tumor suppressor genes as well as some oncogenes. This indicated the need for the further study of clinical applications of RNA activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingsong Zhang
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Shuo Miao
- Department of Pharmacology, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Chuanchang Li
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Kai Cui
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Qiangqiang Ge
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan 430030, Hubei, China
- Department of Urology, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan UniversityWuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Zhong Chen
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan 430030, Hubei, China
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37
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Choi S, Uehara H, Wu Y, Das S, Zhang X, Archer B, Carroll L, Ambati BK. RNA activating-double stranded RNA targeting flt-1 promoter inhibits endothelial cell proliferation through soluble FLT-1 upregulation. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0193590. [PMID: 29509796 PMCID: PMC5839558 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0193590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2017] [Accepted: 02/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Short-activating RNA (saRNA), which targets gene promoters, has been shown to increase the target gene expression. In this study, we describe the use of an saRNA (Flt a-1) to target the flt-1 promoter, leading to upregulation of the soluble isoform of Flt-1 and inhibition of angiogenesis. We demonstrate that Flt a-1 increased sFlt-1 mRNA and protein levels, while reducing VEGF expression. This was associated with suppression of human umbilical vascular endothelial cell (HUVEC) proliferation and cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase. HUVEC migration and tube formation were also suppressed by Flt a-1. An siRNA targeting Flt-1 blocked the effects of Flt a-1. Flt a-1 effects were not mediated via argonaute proteins. However, trichostatin A and 5'-deoxy-5'-(methylthio) adenosine inhibited Flt a-1 effects, indicating that histone acetylation and methylation are mechanistically involved in RNA activation of Flt-1. In conclusion, RNA activation of sFlt-1 can be used to inhibit angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susie Choi
- John A Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Hironori Uehara
- John A Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Yuanyuan Wu
- John A Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Subrata Das
- Patanjali Research Institute, Haridwar, India
| | - Xiaohui Zhang
- John A Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Bonnie Archer
- John A Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Lara Carroll
- John A Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
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Kang MR, Park KH, Lee CW, Lee MY, Han SB, Li LC, Kang JS. Small activating RNA induced expression of VHL gene in renal cell carcinoma. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2018; 97:36-42. [PMID: 29425832 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2018.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2017] [Revised: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 02/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have reported that chemically synthesized double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs), also known as small activating RNA (saRNAs), can specifically induce gene expression by targeting promoter sequences by a mechanism termed RNA activation (RNAa). In the present study, we designed 4 candidate saRNAs targeting the Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) gene promoter. Among these saRNAs, dsVHL-821 significantly inhibited cell growth by up-regulating VHL at both the mRNA and protein levels in renal cell carcinoma 769-P cells. Functional analysis showed that dsVHL-821 induced apoptosis by increasing p53, decreasing Bcl-xL, activating caspase 3/7 and poly-ADP-ribose polymerase in a dose-dependent manner. Chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis revealed that dsVHL-821 increased the enrichment of Ago2 and RNA polymerase II at the dsVHL-821 target site. In addition, Ago2 depletion significantly suppressed dsVHL-821-induced up-regulation of VHL gene expression and related effects. Single transfection of dsVHL-821 caused long-lasting (14 days) VHL up-regulation. Furthermore, the activation of VHL by dsVHL-821 was accompanied by an increase in dimethylation of histone 3 at lysine 4 (H3K4me2) and acetylation of histone 4 (H4ac) and a decrease in dimethylation of histone 3 at lysine 9 (H3K9me2) and lysine 27 (H3K27me2) in the dsVHL-821 target region. Taken together, these results demonstrate that dsVHL-821, a novel saRNA for VHL, induces the expression of the VHL gene by epigenetic changes, leading to inhibition of cell growth and induction of apoptosis, and suggest that targeted activation of VHL by dsVHL-821 may be explored as a novel treatment of renal cell carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moo Rim Kang
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, 30 Yeongudanjiro, Cheongju, 28116, Republic of Korea; Ractigen Therapeutics, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226400, China
| | - Ki Hwan Park
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, 30 Yeongudanjiro, Cheongju, 28116, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Woo Lee
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, 30 Yeongudanjiro, Cheongju, 28116, Republic of Korea
| | - Myeong Youl Lee
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, 30 Yeongudanjiro, Cheongju, 28116, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Bae Han
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, 1 Chungdaero, Cheongju, 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Long-Cheng Li
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226001, China; Ractigen Therapeutics, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226400, China
| | - Jong Soon Kang
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, 30 Yeongudanjiro, Cheongju, 28116, Republic of Korea.
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39
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Wang D, Tang H, Xu X, Dai W, Wu J, Wang J. Control the intracellular NF-κB activity by a sensor consisting of miRNA and decoy. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2018; 95:43-52. [PMID: 29246684 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2017.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2017] [Revised: 11/14/2017] [Accepted: 12/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Many diseases are associated with the abnormal activation of NF-κB and its signaling pathway. NF-κB has become an important target for disease treatment and development of new drugs. Many various NF-κB inhibitors were therefore developed; however, they have difficulties to become clinical drugs due to their adverse side effects resulted from the affected normal physiological functions of this transcription factor. To overcome this limitation, this study construct a transgenic vector that can express an artificial miRNA targeting NF-κB RelA under the control of a NF-κB-specific promoter. The promoter consists of a NF-κB decoy and a minimal promoter. The vector was named as decoy minimal promoter-artificial microRNA (DMP-amiRNA). This study verified that this vector can sense and control the intracellular NF-κB activity upon transfection. Working of the vector forms a perfect feedback loop that realizes the NF-κB self-control. With the vector in cells, the higher NF-κB activity, the higher DMP transcriptional activity, and the more amiR533 expression. DMP-amiRNA can moderately inhibit the intracellular NF-κB activity but exert no significant effect on cell viability. This study therefore develops a new strategy for inhibiting over activity of NF-κB, which should has great potential in clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danyang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Huanhuan Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Xinhui Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Wei Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Jian Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Jinke Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China.
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40
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Park MS, Phan HD, Busch F, Hinckley SH, Brackbill JA, Wysocki VH, Nakanishi K. Human Argonaute3 has slicer activity. Nucleic Acids Res 2017; 45:11867-11877. [PMID: 29040713 PMCID: PMC5714244 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkx916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2017] [Accepted: 09/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Of the four human Argonaute (AGO) paralogs, only AGO2 has been shown to have slicer activity. The others (AGO1, AGO3 and AGO4) have been thought to assemble with microRNAs to form slicer-independent effector complexes that bind target mRNAs and silence gene expression through translational repression and deadenylation but not cleavage. Here, we report that recombinant AGO3 loaded with miR-20a cleaves complementary target RNAs, whereas AGO3 loaded with let-7a, miR-19b or miR-16 does not, indicating that AGO3 has slicer activity but that this activity depends on the guide RNA. Our cleavage assays using chimeric guides revealed the significance of seed sequence for AGO3 activity, which depends specifically on the sequence of the post-seed. Unlike AGO2, target cleavage by AGO3 requires both 5′- and 3′-flanking regions. Our 3.28 Å crystal structure shows that AGO3 forms a complete active site mirroring that of AGO2, but not a well-defined nucleic acid-binding channel. These results demonstrating that AGO3 also has slicer activity but with more intricate substrate requirements, explain the observation that AGO3 has retained the necessary catalytic residues throughout its evolution. In addition, our structure inspires the idea that the substrate-binding channel of AGO3 and consequently its cellular function, may be modulated by accessory proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi Seul Park
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Hong-Duc Phan
- Ohio State Biochemistry Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Florian Busch
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Samantha H Hinckley
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.,Ohio State Biochemistry Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - James A Brackbill
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Vicki H Wysocki
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.,Ohio State Biochemistry Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Kotaro Nakanishi
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.,Ohio State Biochemistry Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.,Center for RNA Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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41
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Lin D, Meng L, Xu F, Lian J, Xu Y, Xie X, Wang X, He H, Wang C, Zhu Y. Enhanced wild-type p53 expression by small activating RNA dsP53-285 induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in pheochromocytoma cell line PC12. Oncol Rep 2017; 38:3160-3166. [PMID: 29048679 DOI: 10.3892/or.2017.5993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant pheochromocytoma (PHEO) is diagnosed only when metastasis has occurred, making it less likely for patients to obtain the benefits of traditional chemotherapy. Anti-oncogene TP53 mutation has been detected in PHEO and is possibly related to disease progression. However, whether the upregulation of wild-type TP53 has antitumoral effects on PHEO remains completely unknown. In the present study, we used RNA activation (RNAa) technique to upregulate the expression of wild-type TP53 by transfecting synthetic dsP53‑285 into PHEO cell line PC12. We found that the upregulation of wild-type p53 blocked the transition of PC12 cells from the G0/G1 to the S phase, with induction of apoptosis. Additionally, the above-mentioned findings were attested in vivo. Most importantly, dsP53-285-induced antitumoral effects were reversible following co-transfection with siRNA that targeted p53 mRNA. Collectively, our results revealed that the upregulation of p53 and possibly other anti-oncogenes may provide a potential effective therapeutic strategy for PHEO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dengqiang Lin
- Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Li Meng
- Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Feifei Xu
- Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Jianpo Lian
- Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Yunze Xu
- Department of Urology, Renji Hospital Affiliated to the Medical School of Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200000, P.R. China
| | - Xin Xie
- Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Xiaojing Wang
- Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Hongchao He
- Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Chenghe Wang
- Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Yu Zhu
- Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
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42
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Voutila J, Reebye V, Roberts TC, Protopapa P, Andrikakou P, Blakey DC, Habib R, Huber H, Saetrom P, Rossi JJ, Habib NA. Development and Mechanism of Small Activating RNA Targeting CEBPA, a Novel Therapeutic in Clinical Trials for Liver Cancer. Mol Ther 2017; 25:2705-2714. [PMID: 28882451 PMCID: PMC5768526 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2017.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2017] [Revised: 07/31/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Small activating RNAs (saRNAs) are short double-stranded oligonucleotides that selectively increase gene transcription. Here, we describe the development of an saRNA that upregulates the transcription factor CCATT/enhancer binding protein alpha (CEBPA), investigate its mode of action, and describe its development into a clinical candidate. A bioinformatically directed nucleotide walk around the CEBPA gene identified an saRNA sequence that upregulates CEBPA mRNA 2.5-fold in human hepatocellular carcinoma cells. A nuclear run-on assay confirmed that this upregulation is a transcriptionally driven process. Mechanistic experiments demonstrate that Argonaute-2 (Ago2) is required for saRNA activity, with the guide strand of the saRNA shown to be associated with Ago2 and localized at the CEBPA genomic locus using RNA chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays. The data support a sequence-specific on-target saRNA activity that leads to enhanced CEBPA mRNA transcription. Chemical modifications were introduced in the saRNA duplex to prevent activation of the innate immunity. This modified saRNA retains activation of CEBPA mRNA and downstream targets and inhibits growth of liver cancer cell lines in vitro. This novel drug has been encapsulated in a liposomal formulation for liver delivery, is currently in a phase I clinical trial for patients with liver cancer, and represents the first human study of an saRNA therapeutic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vikash Reebye
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Hans Huber
- BioTD Strategies, LLC, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Pal Saetrom
- Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - John J Rossi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Nagy A Habib
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK.
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43
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Zeng T, Duan X, Zhu W, Liu Y, Wu W, Zeng G. SaRNA-mediated activation of TRPV5 reduces renal calcium oxalate deposition in rat via decreasing urinary calcium excretion. Urolithiasis 2017; 46:271-278. [PMID: 28776078 DOI: 10.1007/s00240-017-1004-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2016] [Accepted: 07/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Hypercalciuria is a main risk factor for kidney stone formation. TRPV5 is the gatekeeper protein for mediating calcium transport and reabsorption in the kidney. In the present study, we tested the effect of TRPV5 activation with small activating RNA (saRNA), which could induce gene expression by targeting the promoter of the gene, on ethylene glycol (EG)-induced calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystals formation in rat kidney. Five pairs of RNA activation sequences targeting the promoter of rat TRPV5 were designed and synthesized. The synthesized saRNA with the strongest activating effect was selected, and transcellular calcium transportation was tested by Fura-2 analysis. Subsequently, Sprague-Dawley rats were equally divided into three groups and fed with water, 1% EG for 28 days after injecting the negative control saRNA, 1% EG for 28 days after injecting the selected TRPV5-saRNA, respectively. The CaOx crystal formation and the 24-h urine components were assessed. In vitro study, saRNA ds-320 could significantly activate the expression of TRPV5 and transcellular calcium transportation. In vivo study, after 28 days treatment of EG, rats pre-infected with saRNA ds-320 had lower urinary calcium excretion and renal CaOx crystals formation as compared to that pre-infected with negative control saRNA. Activation of TRVP5 with saRNA ds-320 could inhibit EG-induced calcium oxalate crystals formation via promoting urine calcium reabsorption and decreasing urine calcium excretion in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Zeng
- Department of Urology, Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Kangda Road 1#, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, 510230, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Kangda Road 1#, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, 510230, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaolu Duan
- Department of Urology, Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Kangda Road 1#, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, 510230, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Kangda Road 1#, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, 510230, Guangdong, China
| | - Wei Zhu
- Department of Urology, Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Kangda Road 1#, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, 510230, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Kangda Road 1#, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, 510230, Guangdong, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Urology, Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Kangda Road 1#, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, 510230, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Kangda Road 1#, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, 510230, Guangdong, China
| | - Wenqi Wu
- Department of Urology, Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Kangda Road 1#, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, 510230, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Kangda Road 1#, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, 510230, Guangdong, China
| | - Guohua Zeng
- Department of Urology, Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Kangda Road 1#, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, 510230, Guangdong, China. .,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Kangda Road 1#, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, 510230, Guangdong, China.
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Abstract
The ability to develop efficient and versatile technologies for manipulating gene expression is a fundamental issue both in biotechnology and therapeutics. The endogenous RNA interference (RNAi) pathway which mediates gene silencing was discovered at the end of the 20th century and it is nowadays considered as an essential strategy for knockdown of specific genes and for studying gene function. Remarkably, during the past decade, a RNA-induced mechanism of gene activation has also been reported. Likewise RNAi, the RNA activation (RNAa) process is also mediated by sequence-specific double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) molecules, and interesting resemblances between both RNA-based transcriptional mechanisms have been described. Small activating RNAs (saRNAs) and related molecules have been used for targeting of genes in species that are as different as nematodes and humans, and similar dsRNA-induced activation phenomena have also been observed in plants. The aim of this letter is to highlight recent molecular insights into yet unexplored RNAa mechanism and its potential for manipulating transcriptional activity. J. Cell. Biochem. 119: 247-249, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis María Vaschetto
- Instituto de Diversidad y Ecología Animal, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (IDEA, CONICET), Av. Vélez Sarsfield 299, X5000JJC, Córdoba, Argentina.,Cátedra de Diversidad Animal I, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, (FCEFyN, UNC), Av. Vélez Sarsfield 299, X5000JJC, Córdoba, Argentina
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45
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Kang MR, Li G, Pan T, Xing JC, Li LC. Development of Therapeutic dsP21-322 for Cancer Treatment. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017. [PMID: 28639203 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-10-4310-9_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Small activating RNAs (saRNAs) are a class of artificially designed short duplex RNAs targeted at the promoter of a particular gene to upregulate its expression via a mechanism known as RNA activation (RNAa) and hold great promise for treating a wide variety of diseases including those undruggable by conventional therapies. The therapeutic benefits of saRNAs have been demonstrated in a number of preclinical studies carried out in different disease models including cancer. With many tumor suppressor genes (TSGs) downregulated due to either epigenetic mechanisms or haploinsufficiency resulting from deletion/mutation, cancer is an ideal disease space for saRNA therapeutics which can restore the expression of TSGs via epigenetic reprogramming. The p21WAF1/CIP gene is a TSG frequently downregulated in cancer and an saRNA for p21WAF1/CIP known as dsP21-322 has been identified to be a sequence-specific p21WAF1/CIP activator in a number of cancer types. In this chapter, we review preclinical development of medicinal dsP21-322 for cancer, especially prostate cancer and bladder cancer, and highlight its potential for further clinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gongcheng Li
- Department of Urology, Wuhan General Hospital, Guangzhou Command PLA, Wuhan, China
| | - Tiejun Pan
- Department of Urology, Wuhan General Hospital, Guangzhou Command PLA, Wuhan, China
| | - Jin-Chun Xing
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Long-Cheng Li
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China. .,Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
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46
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Li LC. Small RNA-Guided Transcriptional Gene Activation (RNAa) in Mammalian Cells. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/978-981-10-4310-9_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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47
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Li C, Ge Q, Liu J, Zhang Q, Wang C, Cui K, Chen Z. Effects of miR-1236-3p and miR-370-5p on activation of p21 in various tumors and its inhibition on the growth of lung cancer cells. Tumour Biol 2017. [PMID: 28631573 DOI: 10.1177/1010428317710824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Chuanchang Li
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiangqiang Ge
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Urology, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiaxuan Liu
- Department of Pathology, Changzheng Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingsong Zhang
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chenghe Wang
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kai Cui
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhong Chen
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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48
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Dzialo M, Szopa J, Czuj T, Zuk M. Oligodeoxynucleotides Can Transiently Up- and Downregulate CHS Gene Expression in Flax by Changing DNA Methylation in a Sequence-Specific Manner. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2017; 8:755. [PMID: 28555142 PMCID: PMC5430052 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2017.00755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Chalcone synthase (CHS) has been recognized as an essential enzyme in the phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway. Apart from the leading role in the production of phenolic compounds with many valuable biological activities beneficial to biomedicine, CHS is well appreciated in science. Genetic engineering greatly facilitates expanding knowledge on the function and genetics of CHS in plants. The CHS gene is one of the most intensively studied genes in flax. In our study, we investigated engineering of the CHS gene through genetic and epigenetic approaches. Considering the numerous restrictions concerning the application of genetically modified (GM) crops, the main purpose of this research was optimization of the plant's modulation via epigenetics. In our study, plants modified through two methods were compared: a widely popular agrotransformation and a relatively recent oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) strategy. It was recently highlighted that the ODN technique can be a rapid and time-serving antecedent in quick analysis of gene function before taking vector-mediated transformation. In order to understand the molecular background of epigenetic variation in more detail and evaluate the use of ODNs as a tool for predictable and stable gene engineering, we concentrated on the integration of gene expression and gene-body methylation. The treatment of flax with a series of short oligonucleotides homologous to a different part of CHS gene isoforms revealed that those directed to regulatory gene regions (5'- and 3'-UTR) activated gene expression, directed to non-coding region (introns) caused gen activity reduction, while those homologous to a coding region may have a variable influence on its activity. Gene expression changes were accompanied by changes in its methylation status. However, only certain (CCGG) motifs along the gene sequence were affected. The analyzed DNA motifs of the CHS flax gene are more accessible for methylation when located within a CpG island. The methylation motifs also led to rearrangement of the nucleosome location. The obtained results suggest high specificity of ODN action and establish a potential valuable alternative for improvement of crops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Dzialo
- Department of Genetic Biochemistry, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of WrocławWroclaw, Poland
| | - Jan Szopa
- Department of Genetic Biochemistry, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of WrocławWroclaw, Poland
- Linum FoundationWroclaw, Poland
- Department of Genetics, Plant Breeding and Seed Production, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life SciencesWroclaw, Poland
| | - Tadeusz Czuj
- Department of Genetics, Plant Breeding and Seed Production, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life SciencesWroclaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Zuk
- Department of Genetic Biochemistry, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of WrocławWroclaw, Poland
- Linum FoundationWroclaw, Poland
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A Macro View of MicroRNAs: The Discovery of MicroRNAs and Their Role in Hematopoiesis and Hematologic Disease. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2017; 334:99-175. [PMID: 28838543 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2017.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (MiRNAs) are a class of endogenously encoded ~22 nucleotide, noncoding, single-stranded RNAs that contribute to development, body planning, stem cell differentiation, and tissue identity through posttranscriptional regulation and degradation of transcripts. Given their importance, it is predictable that dysregulation of MiRNAs, which target a wide variety of transcripts, can result in malignant transformation. In this review, we explore the discovery of MiRNAs, their mechanism of action, and the tools that aid in their discovery and study. Strikingly, many of the studies that have expanded our understanding of the contributions of MiRNAs to normal physiology and in the development of diseases have come from studies in the hematopoietic system and hematologic malignancies, with some of the earliest identified functions for mammalian MiRNAs coming from observations made in leukemias. So, with a special focus on the hematologic system, we will discuss how MiRNAs contribute to differentiation of stem cells and how dysregulation of MiRNAs contributes to the development of malignancy, by providing examples of specific MiRNAs that function as oncogenes or tumor suppressors, as well as of defects in MiRNA processing. Finally, we will discuss the promise of MiRNA-based therapeutics and challenges for the future study of disease-causing MiRNAs.
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50
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Harris EA, Buzina A, Moffat J, McMillen DR. Design and Experimental Validation of Small Activating RNAs Targeting an Exogenous Promoter in Human Cells. ACS Synth Biol 2017; 6:628-637. [PMID: 28033709 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.6b00125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
It is increasingly practical to co-opt many native cellular components into use as elements of synthetic biological systems. We present the design and experimental investigation of the first exogenous genetic construct to be successfully targeted by RNA activation, a phenomenon whereby small double-stranded RNAs increase gene expression from sequence-similar promoters by a mechanism thought to be related to that of RNA interference. Our selection of activating RNA candidates was informed by a custom-written computer program designed to choose target sites in the promoter of interest according to a set of empirical optimality criteria drawn from prior research. Activating RNA candidates were assessed for activity against two exogenously derived target promoters, with successful candidates being subjected to further rounds of validation as a precaution against potential off-target effects. A genetic platform was assembled that allowed activating RNA candidates to be simultaneously screened both for positive activity on the target reporter gene and for possible nonspecific effects on cell metabolism. Several candidate sequences were tested to appraise the utility of this platform, with the most successful achieving a moderate activation level with minimal off-target effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edouard A. Harris
- Department
of Physics, University of Toronto, 60 St. George Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A7, Canada
- Department
of Chemical and Physical Sciences, University of Toronto Mississauga, 3359 Mississauga Road, Mississauga, Ontario L5L 1C6, Canada
- Impact
Centre, University of Toronto, 112 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1A7, Canada
| | - Alla Buzina
- Banting
and Best Department of Medical Research, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5E 3E1, Canada
| | - Jason Moffat
- Department
of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - David R. McMillen
- Department
of Physics, University of Toronto, 60 St. George Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A7, Canada
- Department
of Chemical and Physical Sciences, University of Toronto Mississauga, 3359 Mississauga Road, Mississauga, Ontario L5L 1C6, Canada
- Impact
Centre, University of Toronto, 112 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1A7, Canada
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