MiR-324-5p Suppresses Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Invasion by Counteracting ECM Degradation through Post-Transcriptionally Downregulating ETS1 and SP1

Nanoquercetin and Extracellular Vesicles as Potential Anticancer Therapeutics in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Despite world-class sophisticated technologies, robotics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning approaches, cancer-associated mortalities and morbidities have shown continuous increments posing a healthcare burden. Drug-based interventions were associated with systemic toxicities and several limitations. Natural bioactive compounds derived nanoformulations, especially nanoquercetin (nQ), are alternative options to overcome drug-associated limitations. Moreover, the EVs-based cargo targeted delivery of nQ can have enormous potential in treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). EVs-based nQ delivery synergistically regulates and dysregulates several pathways, including NF-κB, p53, JAK/STAT, MAPK, Wnt/β-catenin, and PI3K/AKT, along with PBX3/ERK1/2/CDK2, and miRNAs intonation. Furthermore, discoveries on possible checkpoints of anticancer signaling pathways were studied, which might lead to the development of modified EVs infused with nQ for the development of innovative treatments for HCC. In this work, we abridged the control of such signaling systems using a synergetic strategy with EVs and nQ. The governing roles of extracellular vesicles controlling the expression of miRNAs were investigated, particularly in relation to HCC.

The role of noncoding RNAs in the tumor microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the leading fatal malignancy worldwide. The tumor microenvironment (TME) can affect the survival, proliferation, migration, and even dormancy of cancer cells. Hypoxia is an important component of the TME, and hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) is the most important transcriptional regulator. Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), comprise a large part of the human transcriptome and play an important role in regulating the tumorigenesis of HCC. This review discusses the role of ncRNAs in hepatocarcinogenesis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and angiogenesis in a hypoxic microenvironment, as well as the interactions between ncRNAs and key components of the TME. It further discusses their use as biomarkers and the potential clinical value of drugs, as well as the challenges faced in the future.

MiR-324-5p inhibition after intrahippocampal kainic acid-induced status epilepticus does not prevent epileptogenesis in mice

Background

Acquired epilepsies are caused by an initial brain insult that is followed by epileptogenesis and finally the development of spontaneous recurrent seizures. The mechanisms underlying epileptogenesis are not fully understood. MicroRNAs regulate mRNA translation and stability and are frequently implicated in epilepsy. For example, antagonism of a specific microRNA, miR-324-5p, before brain insult and in a model of chronic epilepsy decreases seizure susceptibility and frequency, respectively. Here, we tested whether antagonism of miR-324-5p during epileptogenesis inhibits the development of epilepsy.

Methods

We used the intrahippocampal kainic acid (IHpKa) model to initiate epileptogenesis in male wild type C57BL/6 J mice aged 6-8 weeks. Twenty-four hours after IHpKa, we administered a miR-324-5p or scrambled control antagomir intracerebroventricularly and implanted cortical surface electrodes for EEG monitoring. EEG data was collected for 28 days and analyzed for seizure frequency and duration, interictal spike activity, and EEG power. Brains were collected for histological analysis.

Results

Histological analysis of brain tissue showed that IHpKa caused characteristic hippocampal damage in most mice regardless of treatment. Antagomir treatment did not affect latency to, frequency, or duration of spontaneous recurrent seizures or interictal spike activity but did alter the temporal development of frequency band-specific EEG power.

Conclusion

These results suggest that miR-324-5p inhibition during epileptogenesis induced by status epilepticus does not convey anti-epileptogenic effects despite having subtle effects on EEG frequency bands. Our results highlight the importance of timing of intervention across epilepsy development and suggest that miR-324-5p may act primarily as a proconvulsant rather than a pro-epileptogenic regulator.

miRNA-126a plays important role in myoblast and endothelial cell interaction

Muscle satellite cells (SCs) are stem cells and the main players in skeletal muscle reconstruction. Since satellite cells are located near or in direct contact with blood vessels their niche is formed, inter alia, by endothelial cells. The cross-talk between satellite cells and endothelial cells determines quiescence or proliferation of these cells. However, little is known about the role of miRNA in these interactions. In the present study we identified miRNA that were up-regulated in SC-derived myoblasts treated with stromal derived factor-1 (SDF-1) and/or down-regulated in cells in which the expression of CXCR4 or CXCR7, that is, SDF-1 receptors, was silenced. SDF-1 is one of the important regulators of cell migration, mobilization, skeletal muscle regeneration, and angiogenesis. We hypothesized that selected miRNAs affect SC-derived myoblast fate and interactions with endothelial cells. We showed that miR-126a-3p inhibited both, myoblast migration and fusion. Moreover, the levels of Cxcl12, encoding SDF-1 and Ackr3, encoding CXCR7, were reduced by miR-126a-3p mimic. Interestingly, the miR-126a-3p mimic significantly decreased the level of numerous factors involved in myogenesis and the miR-126a-5p mimic increased the level of Vefga. Importantly, the treatment of endothelial cells with medium conditioned by miR-126-5p mimic transfected SC-derived myoblasts promoted tubulogenesis.

Specificity Proteins (Sp) and Cancer

The specificity protein (Sp) transcription factors (TFs) Sp1, Sp2, Sp3 and Sp4 exhibit structural and functional similarities in cancer cells and extensive studies of Sp1 show that it is a negative prognostic factor for patients with multiple tumor types. In this review, the role of Sp1, Sp3 and Sp4 in the development of cancer and their regulation of pro-oncogenic factors and pathways is reviewed. In addition, interactions with non-coding RNAs and the development of agents that target Sp transcription factors are also discussed. Studies on normal cell transformation into cancer cell lines show that this transformation process is accompanied by increased levels of Sp1 in most cell models, and in the transformation of muscle cells into rhabdomyosarcoma, both Sp1 and Sp3, but not Sp4, are increased. The pro-oncogenic functions of Sp1, Sp3 and Sp4 in cancer cell lines were studied in knockdown studies where silencing of each individual Sp TF decreased cancer growth, invasion and induced apoptosis. Silencing of an individual Sp TF was not compensated for by the other two and it was concluded that Sp1, Sp3 and Sp4 are examples of non-oncogene addicted genes. This conclusion was strengthened by the results of Sp TF interactions with non-coding microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs where Sp1 contributed to pro-oncogenic functions of Sp/non-coding RNAs. There are now many examples of anticancer agents and pharmaceuticals that induce downregulation/degradation of Sp1, Sp3 and Sp4, yet clinical applications of drugs specifically targeting Sp TFs are not being used. The application of agents targeting Sp TFs in combination therapies should be considered for their potential to enhance treatment efficacy and decrease toxic side effects.

Recent progress in molecular mechanisms of postoperative recurrence and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatectomy is currently considered the most effective option for treating patients with early and intermediate hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Unfortunately, the postoperative prognosis of patients with HCC remains unsatisfactory, predominantly because of high postoperative metastasis and recurrence rates. Therefore, research on the molecular mechanisms of postoperative HCC metastasis and recurrence will help develop effective intervention measures to prevent or delay HCC metastasis and recurrence and to improve the long-term survival of HCC patients. Herein, we review the latest research progress on the molecular mechanisms underlying postoperative HCC metastasis and recurrence to lay a foundation for improving the understanding of HCC metastasis and recurrence and for developing more precise prevention and intervention strategies.

Integrated Microarray for Identifying the Hub mRNAs and Constructed MiRNA-mRNA Network in Coronary In-stent Restenosis

As a major complication after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients who suffer from coronary artery disease, in-stent restenosis (ISR) poses a significant challenge for clinical management. A miRNA-mRNA regulatory network of ISR can be constructed to better reveal the occurrence of ISR. The relevant dataset from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database was downloaded, and 284 differentially expressed miRNAs (DE-miRNAs) and 849 differentially expressed mRNAs (DE-mRNAs) were identified. As predicted by online tools, 65 final functional genes (FmRNAs) were overlapping DE-mRNAs and DE-miRNAs target genes. In the biological process (BP) terms of Gene Ontology (GO) functional analysis, the FmRNAs were mainly enriched in cellular response to peptide, epithelial cell proliferation and response to peptide hormone. In the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis, the FmRNAs were mainly enriched in breast cancer, endocrine resistance and cushing syndrome. Jun Proto-Oncogene, AP-1 Transcription Factor Subunit (JUN), Insulin Like Growth Factor 1 Receptor (IGF1R), Member RAS Oncogene Family (RAB14), Specificity Protein 1 (SP1), Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase Non-Receptor Type1(PTPN1), DDB1 And CUL4 Associated Factor 10 (DCAF10), Retinoblastoma-Binding Protein 5 (RBBP5) and Eukaryotic Initiation Factor 4A-I (EIF4A1) were hub genes in the protein-protein interaction network (PPI network). The miRNA-mRNA network containing DE-miRNA and hub genes was built. Hsa-miR-139-5p-JUN, hsa-miR-324-5p-SP1 axis pairs were found in the miRNA-mRNA network, which could promote ISR development. The above results indicate that the miRNA-mRNA network constructed in ISR has a regulatory role in the development of ISR, and may provide new approaches for clinical treatment and experimental development.

Non-coding RNA in rhabdomyosarcoma progression and metastasis

Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a soft tissue sarcoma of skeletal muscle differentiation, with a predominant occurrence in children and adolescents. One of the major challenges facing treatment success is the presence of metastatic disease at the time of diagnosis, commonly associated with the more aggressive fusion-positive subtype. Non-coding RNA (ncRNA) can regulate gene transcription and translation, and their dysregulation has been associated with cancer development and progression. MicroRNA (miRNA) are short non-coding nucleic acid sequences involved in the regulation of gene expression that act by targeting messenger RNA (mRNA), and their aberrant expression has been associated with both RMS initiation and progression. Other ncRNA including long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), circular RNA (circRNA) and ribosomal RNA (rRNA) have also been associated with RMS revealing important mechanistic roles in RMS biology, but these studies are still limited and require further investigation. In this review, we discuss the established roles of ncRNA in RMS differentiation, growth and progression, highlighting their potential use in RMS prognosis, as therapeutic agents or as targets of treatment.

A review on the role of miRNA-324 in various diseases

Recent studies have revealed important functions of several microRNAs (miRNAs) in the pathogenesis of human diseases. miR-324 is an example of miRNAs with crucial impacts on the pathogenesis of a wide range of disorders. Gene ontology studies have indicated possible role of miR-324 in responses of cells to the leukemia inhibitory factor, long-term synaptic potentiation, positive regulation of cytokines production and sensory perception of sound. In human, miR-324 is encoded by MIR324 gene which resides on chromosome 17p13.1. In the current manuscript, we provide a concise review of the role of miR-324 in the pathogenesis of cancers as well as non-cancerous conditions such as aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage, diabetic nephropathy, epilepsy, pulmonary/renal fibrosis, ischemic stroke and ischemia reperfusion injuries. Moreover, we summarize the role of this miRNA as a prognostic marker for malignant disorders.

Extracellular Vesicles and Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Opportunities and Challenges

The incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is increasing worldwide. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) contain sufficient bioactive substances and are carriers of intercellular information exchange, as well as delivery vehicles for nucleic acids, proteins and drugs. Although EVs show great potential for the treatment of HCC and their role in HCC progression has been extensively studied, there are still many challenges such as time-consuming extraction, difficult storage, easy contamination, and low drug loading rate. We focus on the biogenesis, morphological characteristics, isolation and extraction of EVs and their significance in the progression of HCC, tumor invasion, immune escape and cancer therapy for a review. EVs may be effective biomarkers for molecular diagnosis of HCC and new targets for tumor-targeted therapy.

The interaction between ETS transcription factor family members and microRNAs: A novel approach to cancer therapy

In cancer biology, ETS transcription factors promote tumorigenesis by mediating transcriptional regulation of numerous genes via the conserved ETS DNA-binding domain. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) act as posttranscriptional regulators to regulate various tumor-promoting or tumor-suppressing factors. Interactions between ETS factors and miRNAs regulate complex tumor-promoting and tumor-suppressing networks. This review discusses the progress of ETS factors and miRNAs in cancer research in detail. We focused on characterizing the interaction of the miRNA/ETS axis with competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) and its regulation in posttranslational modifications (PTMs) and the tumor microenvironment (TME). Finally, we explore the prospect of ETS factors and miRNAs in therapeutic intervention. Generally, interactions between ETS factors and miRNAs provide fresh perspectives into tumorigenesis and development and novel therapeutic approaches for malignant tumors.

miR-324-5p and miR-30c-2-3p Alter Renal Mineralocorticoid Receptor Signaling under Hypertonicity

The Mineralocorticoid Receptor (MR) mediates the sodium-retaining action of aldosterone in the distal nephron, but mechanisms regulating MR expression are still poorly understood. We previously showed that RNA Binding Proteins (RBPs) regulate MR expression at the post-transcriptional level in response to variations of extracellular tonicity. Herein, we highlight a novel regulatory mechanism involving the recruitment of microRNAs (miRNAs) under hypertonicity. RT-qPCR validated miRNAs candidates identified by high throughput screening approaches and transfection of a luciferase reporter construct together with miRNAs Mimics or Inhibitors demonstrated their functional interaction with target transcripts. Overexpression strategies using Mimics or lentivirus revealed the impact on MR expression and signaling in renal KC3AC1 cells. miR-324-5p and miR-30c-2-3p expression are increased under hypertonicity in KC3AC1 cells. These miRNAs directly affect Nr3c2 (MR) transcript stability, act with Tis11b to destabilize MR transcript but also repress Elavl1 (HuR) transcript, which enhances MR expression and signaling. Overexpression of miR-324-5p and miR-30c-2-3p alter MR expression and signaling in KC3AC1 cells with blunted responses in terms of aldosterone-regulated genes expression. We also confirm that their expression is increased by hypertonicity in vivo in the kidneys of mice treated with furosemide. These findings may have major implications for the pathogenesis of renal dysfunctions, sodium retention, and mineralocorticoid resistance.

Comprehensive Analysis of the Expression and Clinical Significance of THO Complex Members in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Integrated weighted gene coexpression network analysis identifies Frizzled 2 (FZD2) as a key gene in invasive malignant pleomorphic adenoma

Background

Invasive malignant pleomorphic adenoma (IMPA) is a highly malignant neoplasm of the oral salivary glands with a poor prognosis and a considerable risk of recurrence. Many disease-causing genes of IMPA have been identified in recent decades (e.g., P53, PCNA and HMGA2), but many of these genes remain to be explored. Weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA) is a newly emerged algorithm that can cluster genes and form modules based on similar gene expression patterns. This study constructed a gene coexpression network of IMPA via WGCNA and then carried out multifaceted analysis to identify novel disease-causing genes.

Methods

RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was performed for 10 pairs of IMPA and normal tissues to acquire the gene expression profiles. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened out with the cutoff criteria of |log₂ Fold change (FC)|> 1 and adjusted p value  < 0.05. Then, WGCNA was applied to systematically identify the hidden diagnostic hub genes of IMPA.

Results

In this research, a total of 1970 DEGs were screened out in IMPA tissues, including 1056 upregulated DEGs and 914 downregulated DEGs. Functional enrichment analysis was performed for identified DEGs and revealed an enrichment of tumor-associated GO terms and KEGG pathways. We used WGCNA to identify gene module most relevant with the histological grade of IMPA. The gene FZD2 was then recognized as the hub gene of the selected module with the highest module membership (MM) value and intramodule connectivity in protein–protein interaction (PPI) network. According to immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining, the expression level of FZD2 was higher in low-grade IMPA than in high-grade IMPA.

Conclusion

FZD2 shows an expression dynamic that is negatively correlated with the clinical malignancy of IMPA and it plays a central role in the transcription network of IMPA. Thus, FZD2 serves as a promising histological indicator for the precise prediction of IMPA histological stages.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12967-021-03204-7.

Circular RNAs profiles of osteoarthritic synovium

Purposes: To identify the Circular RNAs (circRNAs) expression profile in the synovium of patients with Osteoarthritis (OA) and explore their potential regulatory mechanism. Methods: Transcriptome high-throughput sequencing was used to...

Exosomal MicroRNAs as Potential Biomarkers of Hepatic Injury and Kidney Disease in Glycogen Storage Disease Type Ia Patients

Glycogen storage disease type Ia (GSDIa) is an inherited metabolic disorder caused by mutations in the enzyme glucose-6-phosphatase-α (G6Pase-α). Affected individuals develop renal and liver complications, including the development of hepatocellular adenoma/carcinoma and kidney failure. The purpose of this study was to identify potential biomarkers of the evolution of the disease in GSDIa patients. To this end, we analyzed the expression of exosomal microRNAs (Exo-miRs) in the plasma exosomes of 45 patients aged 6 to 63 years. Plasma from age-matched normal individuals were used as controls. We found that the altered expression of several Exo-miRs correlates with the pathologic state of the patients and might help to monitor the progression of the disease and the development of late GSDIa-associated complications.

LINC00491 promotes cell growth and metastasis through miR-324-5p/ROCK1 in liver cancer

Background

LINC00491 was involved in some tumors development, but its function in liver cancer has not been reported. This study aimed to investigate LINC00491 expression and function in liver cancer progression.

Methods

Sixty liver cancer cases were enrolled. LINC00491, miR-324-5p and rho-associated kinase 1 (ROCK1) expression in liver cancer patients and cells were detected by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. HUH-7 and SK-Hep-1 cells were transfected to modulate LINC00491, miR-324-5p and ROCK1 expression. Cell counting kit-8 assay, colony formation assay, wound healing assay, Transwell experiment, Tunel assay and flow cytometry were performed to detected HUH-7 and SK-Hep-1 cells proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis and cell cycle. Biotin-RNA pull-down assay and Dual-Luciferase Reporter Assay was performed to detect the binding among LINC00491, miR-324-5p and ROCK1. Xenograft tumor and lung metastasis was performed using nude mice. Xenograft tumor and lung tissues of mice were experienced immunohistochemistry and hematoxylin–eosin staining.

Results

LINC00491 was highly expressed in liver cancer cases, associating with poor prognosis. si-LINC00491 inhibited proliferation, colony formation, invasion, migration, and induced cell cycle G1 arrest and apoptosis in HUH-7 and SK-Hep-1 cells. LINC00491 overexpression showed opposite effects. LINC00491 promoted ROCK1 expression by reducing miR-324-5p. miR-324-5p up-regulation or ROCK1 knockdown reversed LINC00491 promotion on liver SK-Hep-1 cells malignant phenotype. LINC00491 facilitated xenograft tumor growth and lung metastasis in mice.

Conclusion

LINC00491 was highly expressed in liver cancer patients, associating with poor prognosis. LINC00491 facilitated liver cancer progression by sponging miR-324-5p/ROCK1. LINC00491 might be a potential treatment target of liver cancer.

A curcumin analog GL63 inhibits the malignant behaviors of hepatocellular carcinoma by inactivating the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway via the circular RNA zinc finger protein 83/microRNA-324-5p/cyclin-dependent kinase 16 axis

BACKGROUND AND AIM

(1E,4E)-1,5-bis(2-bromophenyl) penta-1,4-dien-3-one (GL63) is a curcumin analog that can protect against carcinogenesis in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The aim of this study was to explore the molecular mechanism of GL63 in HCC.

METHODS

Cell viability was examined by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Circular RNA zinc finger protein 83 (circZNF83), microRNA-324-5p (miR-324-5p), and cyclin-dependent kinase 16 (CDK16) levels were measured via the quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Cell proliferation was assessed using colony formation assay. Flow cytometry was performed for detecting cell cycle and apoptosis. Protein analysis was conducted by western blot. Cell migration and invasion were determined using transwell assay. Target relation was analyzed using dual-luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays. The function of GL63 in vivo was researched by xenograft model in mice.

RESULTS

GL63 inhibited the circZNF83 expression in HCC cells. CircZNF83 overexpression attenuated the inhibitory effects of GL63 on HCC cell growth, cell cycle progression, migration, and invasion but the promoting effect on cell apoptosis. CircZNF83 served as a sponge of miR-324-5p and circZNF83/miR-324-5p axis was involved in the functional regulation of GL63 in HCC progression. Moreover, CDK16 was a downstream target of miR-324-5p and circZNF83 could regulate the CDK16 expression by sponging miR-324-5p. The anti-tumor function of GL63 was also related to the miR-324-5p/CDK16 axis. In addition, GL63 inactivated the JAK2/STAT3 pathway via downregulating circZNF83 to mediate the miR-324-5p/CDK16 axis. GL63 also repressed tumor growth in vivo through the circZNF83/miR-324-5p/CDK16-mediated JAK2/STAT3 signal inhibition.

CONCLUSION

This study suggested GL63 impeded the HCC development by blocking the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway via mediating the circZNF83/miR-324-5p/CDK16 axis.

Exosome encapsulated ncRNAs in the development of HCC: potential circulatory biomarkers and clinical therapeutic targets

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth most deadly malignant cancer in the world and has the third highest mortality rate among cancer-related deaths worldwide. Its poor prognosis can be attributed to late diagnosis, high risk of recurrence and drug resistance. Therefore, finding a new biomarker to help us in the early diagnosis, and exploring the molecular mechanisms involved in recurrence and drug resistance is a reasonable research direction for clinical treatment of HCC. At present, the exosomes related to HCC have been confirmed to carry ncRNAs, transfer them to target cells, and bind corresponding target molecules. Furthermore, they affect the proliferation and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma by promoting angiogenesis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and inhibiting the function of the body's immune system. They play an important role in the recurrence and resistance of HCC. Besides, exosomes are stably expressed in body fluids such as sera, are easy to collect and cause little harm to the human body. They are the best candidates for liquid biopsy. Therefore, exosomal ncRNAs have application prospects as biomarkers and targeted molecules for therapy. This article summarizes the current research involving ncRNAs in HCC-related exosomes.

Integrated analysis of competing endogenous RNA in esophageal carcinoma

Background

The Competing endogenous RNA (CeRNA) network plays important roles in the development and progression of multiple human cancers. Increasing attention has been paid to CeRNA in esophageal carcinoma (ESCA).

Methods

We explored The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and then analyzed the RNAs of 142 samples to obtain long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), micro RNAs (miRNAs), and messenger RNAs (mRNAs) with different expression trends alongside the progress of ESCA. A series test of cluster (STC) analysis was carried out to identify a set of unique model expression tendencies. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis were used to validate the function of key genes that were obtained from the STC analysis.

Results

Through our analysis, 272 lncRNAs, 87 miRNAs, and 692 mRNAs showed upward expression or downward expression trends, and these molecules were tightly involved in cell cycle, pathways in cancer, metabolic processes, and protein phosphorylation, among others. Ultimately, we constructed a CeRNA network containing a total of 71 lncRNAs, 56 miRNAs, and 125 mRNAs. The overall survival (OS) was analyzed using univariate Cox regression analysis to clarify the relationship between these key molecules from the CeRNA network and the prognosis of ESCA patients. Through survival analysis, we finally screened out two lncRNAs (DLEU2, RP11-890B15.3), three miRNAs (miR-26b-3p, miR-92a-3p, miR-324-5p), and one mRNA (SIK2) as crucial prognostic factors for ESCA.

Conclusions

The novel CeRNA network that we constructed will provide new novel prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for patients with ESCA.

The E-Twenty-Six Family in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Moving into the Spotlight

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Although therapeutic strategies have recently advanced, tumor metastasis and drug resistance continue to pose challenges in the treatment of HCC. Therefore, new molecular targets are needed to develop novel therapeutic strategies for this cancer. E-twenty-six (ETS) transcription family has been implicated in human malignancies pathogenesis and progression, including leukemia, Ewing sarcoma, gastrointestinal stromal tumors. Recently, increasing studies have expanded its great potential as functional players in other cancers, including HCC. This review focuses primarily on the key functions and molecular mechanisms of ETS factors in HCC. Elucidating these molecular details may provide novel potential therapeutic strategies for cancers.

LncRNA ANRIL Regulates Ovarian Cancer Progression and Tumor Stem Cell-Like Characteristics via miR-324-5p/Ran Axis

Objective

Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) ANRIL is emerging as a crucial role in ovarian cancer progression and prognosis. However, the precise molecular mechanism of ANRIL on ovarian cancer is not known. Thus, we aim to study the underlying mechanism of ANRIL on the action.

Methods

The MTT assay assessed cell viability. Cell migration and invasion were determined using the wound healing assay, Transwell migration, and invasion assay. The relationships of ANRIL, miR-324-5p, and RAN were evaluated using luciferase activity assay and RNA pull-down assay. Cancer stem cell was identified by flow cytometry. Sphere formation assay was conducted to determine the stem-like properties. Xenograft tumor was established to assess tumor growth in vivo. qRT-PCR and Western blot were used to detect gene expression.

Results

ANRIL was elevated while miR-324-5p was decreased in ovarian cancer tissues and cells. Besides, downregulated ANRIL enhanced miR-324-5p expression, and the luciferase reporting experiment and RNA pull-down assay showed the binding interaction between ANRIL and miR-324-5p. miR-324-5p directly targeted Ran and negatively modulated the expression of Ran. Besides, Ran was promoted by overexpressed ANRIL, which was reversed by overexpression of miR-324-5p. Furthermore, decreased ANRIL and increased miR-324-5p suppressed tumor growth, migration capacity, drug resistance, and alleviated stem-like characteristics in vitro and in vivo. Ran mediated the regulation of ANRIL on cell viability, stem-like properties, and drug resistance of ovarian cancer cells.

Conclusion

The ANRIL/miR-324-5p/Ran axis regulated ovarian cancer development, making the axis meaningful targets for ovarian cancer therapy.

Biomarker Identification for Liver Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Cholangiocarcinoma Based on Gene Regulatory Network Analysis

Background:

Liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) and cholangiocarcinoma (CHOL) are two main histological subtypes of primary liver cancer with a unified molecular landscape, and feed-forward loops (FFLs) have been shown to be relevant in these complex diseases.

Objective:

To date, there has been no comparative analysis of the pathogenesis of LIHC and CHOL based on regulatory relationships. Therefore, we investigated the common and distinct regulatory properties of LIHC and CHOL in terms of gene regulatory networks.

Method:

Based on identified FFLs and an analysis of pathway enrichment, we constructed pathway-specific co-expression networks and further predicted biomarkers for these cancers by network clustering.

Resul:

We identified 20 and 36 candidate genes for LIHC and CHOL, respectively. The literature from PubMed supports the reliability of our results.

Conclusion:

Our results indicated that the hsa01522-Endocrine resistance pathway was associated with both LIHC and CHOL. Additionally, six genes (SPARC, CTHRC1, COL4A1, EDIL3, LAMA4 and OLFML2B) were predicted to be highly associated with both cancers, and COL4A2, CSPG4, GJC1 and ADAMTS7 were predicted to be potential biomarkers of LIHC, and COL6A3, COL1A2, FAP and COL8A1 were predicted to be potential biomarkers of CHOL. In addition, we inferred that the Collagen gene family, which appeared more frequently in our overall prediction results, might be closely related to cancer development.

Hepigenetics: A Review of Epigenetic Modulators and Potential Therapies in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma is the fifth most common cancer worldwide and the second most lethal, following lung cancer. Currently applied therapeutic practices rely on surgical resection, chemotherapy and radiotherapy, or a combination thereof. These treatment options are associated with extreme adversities, and risk/benefit ratios do not always work in patients' favor. Anomalies of the epigenome lie at the epicenter of aberrant molecular mechanisms by which the disease develops and progresses. Modulation of these anomalous events poses a promising prospect for alternative treatment options, with an abundance of felicitous results reported in recent years. Herein, the most recent epigenetic modulators in hepatocellular carcinoma are recapitulated on.

Investigation of the miRNA and mRNA Coexpression Network and Their Prognostic Value in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Purpose

To identify pivotal differentially expressed miRNAs and genes and construct their regulatory network in hepatocellular carcinoma.

Methods

mRNA (GSE101728) and microRNA (GSE108724) microarray datasets were obtained from the NCBI Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Then, we identified the differentially expressed miRNAs and mRNAs. Sequentially, transcription factor enrichment and gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis for miRNA were performed. Target genes of these differential miRNAs were obtained using packages in R language (R package multiMiR). After that, downregulated miRNAs were matched with target mRNAs which were upregulated, while upregulated miRNAs were paired with downregulated target mRNA using scripts written in Perl. An miRNA-mRNA network was constructed and visualized in Cytoscape software. For miRNAs in the network, survival analysis was performed. And for genes in the network, we did gene ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis.

Results

A total of 35 miRNAs and 295 mRNAs were involved in the network. These differential genes were enriched in positive regulation of cell-cell adhesion, positive regulation of leukocyte cell-cell adhesion, and so on. Eight differentially expressed miRNAs were found to be associated with the OS of patients with HCC. Among which, miR-425 and miR-324 were upregulated while the other six, including miR-99a, miR-100, miR-125b, miR-145, miR-150, and miR-338, were downregulated.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these results can provide a potential research direction for further studies about the mechanisms of how miRNA affects malignant behavior in hepatocellular carcinoma.

Circ_0067835 sponges miR-324-5p to induce HMGA1 expression in endometrial carcinoma cells

Endometrial cancer is a common gynaecological malignant tumour among women across the world. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a novel kind of non‐coding RNAs, and they can play a crucial role in multiple cancers. Nevertheless, the mechanisms of circRNAs in regulating gene expression in endometrial cancer are still unclear. Here, our work sought to focus on the role that circ_0067835 exert in progression and development of endometrial cancer cells. We observed circ_0067835 was markedly elevated in endometrial cancer. Then, changes in endometrial cancer cell (RL95‐2 and HEC‐1B) function were determined after circ_0067835 knockdown. Loss‐of‐functional assays revealed that circ_0067835 down‐regulation significantly repressed RL95‐1 and HEC‐1B cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Bioinformatics analysis, luciferase reporter experiment and RNA pull‐down assay were employed to predict and validate circ_0067835 can bind to miR‐324‐5p. Increase in miR‐324‐5p remarkably depressed the proliferation, migration and invasion of endometrial cancer cells via inhibiting high mobility group A1 (HMGA1). HMGA1 is identified as a vital prognostic biomarker in endometrial cancer. Currently, we reported circ_0067835 was positively correlated with HMGA1 in endometrial cancer. We implied that circ_0067835 was capable of sponging miR‐324‐5p and inducing its downstream target HMGA1 in vitro and in vivo. In conclusion, circ_0067835 can compete with miR‐324‐5p, resulting in HMGA1 up‐regulation, and therefore induce the development of endometrial cancer.

SUFU mediates EMT and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway activation promoted by miRNA-324-5p in human gastric cancer

The poor prognosis of late gastric carcinomas (GC) underscores the necessity to identify novel biomarkers for earlier diagnosis and effective therapeutic targets. MiRNA-324-5p has been shown to be over-expressed in GC, however the biological function of miRNA-324-5p implicated in gastric cancer and its downstream targets were not well understood. Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is aberrantly regulated in GC. We sought to explore if miRNA-324-5p promotes oncogenesis through modulating Wnt signaling and EMT. MiRNA-324-5p is highly expressed in GC based on qRT-PCR and TCGA data. In addition, in vitro cell proliferation, cell migration assays and in vivo animal exenograft were executed to show that miRNA-324-5p is an oncogenic miRNA in GC. MiRNA-324-5p activates Wnt signaling and induces EMT in GC. Further, SUFU was identified as a target of miRNA-324-5p confirmed by western blotting and luciferase assays. Spearson analysis and TCGA data indicate that the expression of SUFU is negatively associated with the expression of miRNA-324-5p. Rescue experiments were performed to determine if SUFU mediates the Wnt activation, EMT and oncogenic function of miRNA-324-5p. MiRNA-324-5p inhibitors plus SUFU siRNAs rescue partially the inhibitory effect on Wnt signaling and EMT caused by miRNA-324-5p inhibitors. Finally, the suppression of cell proliferation, migration, and colony formation ability induced by miRNA-324-5p inhibitors is alleviated by addition of SUFU siRNAs. In summary, miRNA-324-5p is overexpressed in vivo and exerts cell growth and migration-promoting effects through activating Wnt signaling and EMT by targeting SUFU in GC. It represents a potential miRNA with an oncogenic role in human gastric cancer.

RNA sequencing of plasma exosomes revealed novel functional long noncoding RNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma

Exosomal long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) has been found to be associated with the development of cancers. However, the expression characteristics and the biological roles of exosomal lncRNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain unknown. Here, by RNA sequencing, we found 9440 mRNAs and 8572 lncRNAs were differentially expressed (DE-) in plasma exosomes between HCC patients and healthy controls. Exosomal DE-lncRNAs displayed higher expression levels and tissue specificity, lower expression variability and splicing efficiency than DE-mRNAs. Six candidate DE-lncRNAs (fold change 6 or more, P ≤ .01) were high in HCC cells and cell exosomes. The knockdown of these candidate DE-lncRNAs significantly affected the migration, proliferation, and apoptosis in HCC cells. In particular, a novel DE-lncRNA, RP11-85G21.1 (lnc85), promoted HCC cellular proliferation and migration by targeted binding and regulating of miR-324-5p. More importantly, the level of serum lnc85 was highly expressed in both Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)-positive and AFP-negative HCC patients and allowed distinguishing AFP-negative HCC from healthy control and liver cirrhosis (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.869; sensitivity, 80.0%; specificity, 76.5%) with high accuracy. Our finding offers a new insight into the association between the dysregulation of exosomal lncRNA and HCC, suggesting that lnc85 could be a potential biomarker of HCC.

Silybin Prevents Prostate Cancer by Inhibited the ALDH1A1 Expression in the Retinol Metabolism Pathway

Background

Silybin was known to exert inhibition in prostate cancer, but the underlying mechanism remained largely unknown. This study was designed to find out the potential target of Silybin on prostate cancer and explore the relative mechanisms.

Methods

Firstly, we screened the possible targets of Silybin through the PubChem database and Subpathway – GM. Then DU145 cells were transferred to investigate the correction about related targets, magnetic bead sorting and flow cytometry were used to sort and identify the cells. Proliferation, migration and invasion ability of DU145 cells were detected by MTT assay, Transwell assay, plate clonality and sphere formation assay. BALB/c nude mice were constructed models with implanted sarcoma and measured the tumor volume every 5 days as wells tumor weight. The levels of proteins were detected by Western blot and immunocytochemistry. RT-PCR was selected to test the expression of protein’s mRNA.

Results

It was screened out the ALDH1A1 was highly correlated with subpathways of the Silybin risk metabolic pathway. And ALDH1A1 expression was positively correlated RARα with Ets1 by interfering with the ALDH1A1 gene. Importantly, ALDH1A1(+) cells showed proliferation, migration and invasion ability. In addition, it showed that Silybin exerted the inhibition on prostate cells by suppressed the proliferation, migration and invasion ability of cells in vitro experiment. Silybin also reduced the tumor volume and weight. And Silybin displayed obviously reduced the proteins and mRNA of ALDH1A1, RARα, Ets1 and MMP9 expressions.

Conclusion

Our results indicated that Silybin showed inhibition of prostate cancer and the mechanism was involving with downregulating ALDH1A1 expression, thereby inhibiting the activation of RARα and preventing the activation of Ets1 to inhibit the growth and invasion of prostate cancer.

miR-324-5p Contributes to Cell Proliferation and Apoptosis in Pancreatic Cancer by Targeting KLF3

Pancreatic cancer cells are characterized by high cell proliferation and low cell apoptosis, but the factors involved in these processes remain to be further studied. In this study, we report that miR-324-5p regulates the proliferation and apoptosis of pancreatic cancer cells through regulating the expression of Krüppel-like factor 3 (KLF3). In both pancreatic cancer tissues and cell lines, the levels of miR-324-5p are significantly increased. Inhibition of miR-324-5p represses cell proliferation but promotes cell apoptosis, whereas overexpression of miR-324-5p exerts the opposite effect. Furthermore, we identified KLF3, a factor regulating pancreatic cancer cell proliferation and apoptosis, as a new direct downstream target of miR-324-5p. Our results suggest that miR-324-5p plays an important role in pancreatic cancer cell proliferation and apoptosis via downregulating the expression of KLF3.

A Mechanism for microRNA Arm Switching Regulated by Uridylation

Strand selection is a critical step in microRNA (miRNA) biogenesis. Although the dominant strand may change depending on cellular contexts, the molecular mechanism and physiological significance of such alternative strand selection (or "arm switching") remain elusive. Here we find miR-324 to be one of the strongly regulated miRNAs by arm switching and identify the terminal uridylyl transferases TUT4 and TUT7 to be the key regulators. Uridylation of pre-miR-324 by TUT4/7 re-positions DICER on the pre-miRNA and shifts the cleavage site. This alternative processing produces a duplex with a different terminus from which the 3' strand (3p) is selected instead of the 5' strand (5p). In glioblastoma, the TUT4/7 and 3p levels are upregulated, whereas the 5p level is reduced. Manipulation of the strand ratio is sufficient to impair glioblastoma cell proliferation. This study uncovers a role of uridylation as a molecular switch in alternative strand selection and implicates its therapeutic potential.

Therapeutic potential of KLF2-induced exosomal microRNAs in pulmonary hypertension

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a severe disorder of lung vasculature that causes right heart failure. Homoeostatic effects of flow-activated transcription factor Krüppel-like factor 2 (KLF2) are compromised in PAH. Here, we show that KLF2-induced exosomal microRNAs, miR-181a-5p and miR-324-5p act together to attenuate pulmonary vascular remodelling and that their actions are mediated by Notch4 and ETS1 and other key regulators of vascular homoeostasis. Expressions of KLF2, miR-181a-5p and miR-324-5p are reduced, while levels of their target genes are elevated in pre-clinical PAH, idiopathic PAH and heritable PAH with missense p.H288Y KLF2 mutation. Therapeutic supplementation of miR-181a-5p and miR-324-5p reduces proliferative and angiogenic responses in patient-derived cells and attenuates disease progression in PAH mice. This study shows that reduced KLF2 signalling is a common feature of human PAH and highlights the potential therapeutic role of KLF2-regulated exosomal miRNAs in PAH and other diseases associated with vascular remodelling.

microRNA-324 plays an oncogenic role in bladder cancer cell growth and motility

Background

Despite advances in the treatment of bladder cancer (BC), patients with late-stage BC have a high mortality rate. microRNA is a small, nonprotein coding RNA, and a dysfunction in its expression is frequently strongly correlated with the prognosis of patients with cancer. Aberrant expression of miR-324 has been reported to contribute to human carcinogenesis. However, the role of miR-324 in BC remains unclear.

Methods

The expression levels of miR-324-5p and miR-324-3p were analyzed by analyzing The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) approach. The biological role of miR-324-5p and miR-324-3p were assessed in BFTC950 cells with miR-324-5p or miR-324-3p mimics transfection, respectively.

Results

In this study, we demonstrated that high expression levels of miR-324-5p and miR-324-3p were significantly correlated with poor survival of patients with BC. Furthermore, miR-324-5p expression significantly accelerated BC cell proliferation, colony formation ability, and invasion ability, whereas miR-324-3p expression slightly increased BC cell growth and motility.

Conclusion

Our data indicated that miR-324-5p and miR-324-3p play oncogenic roles in BC cells. This finding provides a new insight into potential therapeutic targets or putative biomarkers of BC.

Regulating of cell cycle progression by the lncRNA CDKN2B-AS1/miR-324-5p/ROCK1 axis in laryngeal squamous cell cancer

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the function of long non-coding RNA ANRIL (CDKN2B-AS1) in laryngeal squamous cell cancer (LSCC), and to explore the underlying mechanism.

METHODS

The expression levels of CDKN2B-AS1 in LSCC tissues and cell lines (Tu177, HN4, AMC-HN-8 and NP69) were determined by reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). AMC-HN-8 cells were then transfected with siRNAs of CDKN2B-AS1. The effects of CDKN2B-AS1 on cell proliferation, cell cycle, and apoptotic protein were determined by CCK-8 assay, flow cytometry analysis, and western blot, respectively. Dual luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay were employed to verify the targets of CDKN2B-AS1. The miR-324-5p mimics or miR-324-5p inhibitor and ROCK1 over-expression plasmids were also transfected into AMC-HN-8 cells for further analysis.

RESULTS

CDKN2B-AS1 was upregulated in LSCC tissues, and the upregulation of CDKN2B-AS1 was correlated with overall survival, advanced clinical stage, and lymph node metastasis. In AMC-HN-8 cells, the knockdown of CDKN2B-AS1 by siRNA inhibited cell viability, blocked cell cycle in G1 phase, and increased the expression levels of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1A (p21), cleaved caspase3, and cleaved PPoly (ADP-Ribose) polymerase 1. Results of dual luciferase reporter assay showed that miR-324-5p could bind to CDKN2B-AS1 or Rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein kinase 1 (ROCK1). Finally, over-expression of ROCK1 in AMC-HN-8 cells revised the inhibitory effect of CDKN2B-AS1 siRNA on cell growth.

DISCUSSION

The upregulation of CDKN2B-AS1 was correlated with overall survival, advanced clinical stage, and lymph node metastasis and promoted LSCC cell growth via miR-324-5p/ROCK1 axis.

MicroRNA Profiling Reveals Distinct Signatures in Degenerative Rotator Cuff Pathologies

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as key regulators orchestrating a wide range of inflammatory and fibrotic diseases. However, the role of miRNAs in degenerative shoulder joint disorders is poorly understood. The aim of this explorative case-control study was to identify pathology-related, circulating miRNAs in patients with chronic rotator cuff tendinopathy and degenerative rotator cuff tears (RCT). In 2017, 15 patients were prospectively enrolled and assigned to three groups based on the diagnosed pathology: (i) no shoulder pathology, (ii) chronic rotator cuff tendinopathy, and (iii) degenerative RCTs. In total, 14 patients were included. Venous blood samples ("liquid biopsies") were collected from each patient and serum levels of 187 miRNAs were determined. Subsequently, the change in expression of nine candidate miRNAs was verified in tendon biopsy samples, collected from patients who underwent arthroscopic shoulder surgery between 2015 and 2018. Overall, we identified several miRNAs to be progressively deregulated in sera from patients with either chronic rotator cuff tendinopathy or degenerative RCTs. Importantly, for the several of these miRNAs candidates repression was also evident in tendon biopsies harvested from patients who were treated for a supraspinatus tendon tear. As similar expression profiles were determined for tendon samples, the newly identified systemic miRNA signature has potential as novel diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers for degenerative rotator cuff pathologies. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Orthopaedic Research^® published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Orthopaedic Research Society. Inc. J Orthop Res 38:202-211, 2020.

Downregulated miRNA-324-5p aggravates neuronal injury induced by oxygen-glucose deprivation via modulating RAN

Differentially expressed miRNAs in the GEO profile of ischemic stroke were analyzed to clarify the specific role of microRNA-324-5p (miRNA-324-5p) in ischemic stroke and the potential mechanism. After screening out miRNA-324-5p, its level in peripheral blood of stroke patients and in vitro oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD)-induced primary rat neurons was determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Regulatory effects of miRNA-324-5p on viability, and apoptosis of OGD-induced neurons were evaluated by CCK-8 and Annexin V fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)/propidium iodide (PI) staining, respectively. Glucose uptake and caspase-3 activity in OGD-induced neurons transfected with miRNA-324-5p mimics or inhibitor were also examined. The binding of miRNA-324-5p to its target gene RAN was analyzed by dual-luciferase reporter gene assay and western blot analysis. By analyzing the data of GSE46266 profile, miRNA-324-5p expression was shown markedly lower in MCAO rats relative to controls. Identically, we also observed the downregulated miRNA-324-5p in peripheral blood of stroke patients and in vitro OGD-induced primary neurons. Overexpression of miRNA-324-5p accelerated viability, induced apoptosis and strengthened glucose uptake ability of OGD-induced neurons. Knockdown of miRNA-324-5p, conversely, obtained the opposite results. Furthermore, we confirmed the binding of miRNA-324-5p to RAN, the target gene that was negatively regulated by miRNA-324-5p. Importantly, RAN overexpression partially reversed the regulatory effect of miRNA-324-5p on viability and glucose uptake of OGD-induced neurons. miRNA-324-5p is downregulated after ischemic stroke, which aggravates the disease condition by inhibiting neuronal proliferation and glucose uptake via upregulating RAN.

An Omics Approach to Extracellular Vesicles from HIV-1 Infected Cells

Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 (HIV-1) is the causative agent of Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), infecting nearly 37 million people worldwide. Currently, there is no definitive cure, mainly due to HIV-1's ability to enact latency. Our previous work has shown that exosomes, a small extracellular vesicle, from uninfected cells can activate HIV-1 in latent cells, leading to increased mostly short and some long HIV-1 RNA transcripts. This is consistent with the notion that none of the FDA-approved antiretroviral drugs used today in the clinic are transcription inhibitors. Furthermore, these HIV-1 transcripts can be packaged into exosomes and released from the infected cell. Here, we examined the differences in protein and nucleic acid content between exosomes from uninfected and HIV-1-infected cells. We found increased cyclin-dependent kinases, among other kinases, in exosomes from infected T-cells while other kinases were present in exosomes from infected monocytes. Additionally, we found a series of short antisense HIV-1 RNA from the 3' LTR that appears heavily mutated in exosomes from HIV-1-infected cells along with the presence of cellular noncoding RNAs and cellular miRNAs. Both physical and functional validations were performed on some of the key findings. Collectively, our data indicate distinct differences in protein and RNA content between exosomes from uninfected and HIV-1-infected cells, which can lead to different functional outcomes in recipient cells.

Eukaryotic elongation factor 2 kinase promotes angiogenesis in hepatocellular carcinoma via PI3K/Akt and STAT3

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an aggressive malignancy with increasing mortality in China. Angiogenesis is crucial for tumor formation, development and metastasis in HCC. Previous studies indicated that high expression levels of elongation factor 2 kinase (eEF2K), a protein kinase that negatively regulates the elongation stage of translation, were associated with poor prognosis of HCC. Here, we show that pharmacological inhibition or knockdown of eEF2K in highly metastatic liver cancer cells inhibits their colony forming and migratory capacities, as well as reducing their invasiveness. Importantly, knocking down eEF2K by lentiviral directed shRNA prevented tumor growth and angiogenesis of HCC in mice. Silencing of eEF2K in endothelial cells (HUVECs) led to a reduction in vascularization, evidenced by a decrease in capillary-like structures in the matrigel. Notably, knocking down eEF2K reduced the expression of angiogenesis-related growth factors in liver cancer cells and the expression of growth factor receptors on HUVECs, and thus restricted signaling crosstalk that promotes angiogenesis between HCC cells and endothelial cells. We also showed that silencing of eEF2K effectively reduced protein levels of SP1/KLF5 transcription factors and hence decreased the levels of bound SP1/KLF5 to the VEGF promoter, resulted in a decrease in VEGF mRNA expression. Knocking down eEF2K also led to a striking decrease in the phosphorylation of PI3K/Akt and STAT3, indicating inactivation of these tumorigenic pathways. Taken together, our data suggest that eEF2K contributes to angiogenesis and tumor progression in HCC via SP1/KLF5-mediated VEGF expression, as well as the subsequent stimulation of PI3K/Akt and STAT3 signaling.

miR-200c Prevents TGF-β1-Induced Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition and Fibrogenesis in Mesothelial Cells by Targeting ZEB2 and Notch1

Peritoneal fibrosis and loss of transport function is a common complication contributing to adverse outcomes in patients on long-term peritoneal dialysis (PD). Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in mesothelial cells is a salient feature, but its triggering mechanisms remain obscure. Dysregulation of microRNA (miR) expression is implicated in EMT and tissue fibrosis. We investigated the role of miR-200c in EMT and fibrogenesis in a murine PD model and in cultured peritoneal mesothelial cells. PD-fluid-treated mice showed peritoneal miR-200c expression reduced by 76.2% compared with PBS-treated mice, and this was accompanied by increased peritoneal α-smooth muscle actin, fibronectin, and collagen expression. PD fluid and TGF-β1 both reduced miR-200c expression in cultured mesothelial cells, accompanied by downregulation of E-cadherin and decorin, and induction of fibronectin, collagen I and III, and transcription factors related to EMT. Decorin prevented the suppression of miR-200c by TGF-β1. Lentivirus-mediated miR-200c overexpression prevented the induction of fibronectin, collagen I, and collagen III by TGF-β1, independent of decorin, and partially prevented E-cadherin suppression by TGF-β1. Target genes of miR-200c were identified as ZEB2 and Notch1. Our data demonstrate that miR-200c regulates EMT and fibrogenesis in mesothelial cells, and loss of peritoneal miR-200c contributes to PD-associated peritoneal fibrosis.

Upregulation of miR-324-5p Inhibits Proliferation and Invasion of Colorectal Cancer Cells by Targeting ELAVL1

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common clinical cancer that remains incurable in most cases. miRNAs are reported to play a part in the development of various tumors. In the present study, we found that miR-324-5p was downregulated in CRC cells, while ELAV (embryonic lethal, abnormal vision, Drosophila)-like protein 1 (ELAVL1) showed a higher expression. miR-324-5p transfection significantly inhibited the proliferation as well as invasion in both SW620 and SW480 cells. miR-324-5p mimic transfection markedly decreased the expression of ELAVL1. Luciferase reporter gene assay confirmed that ELAVL1 is a direct target of miR-324-5p. Furthermore, cancer invasion factors uPA, uPAR, and MMP-9 were found to drop significantly in miR-324-5p-transfected groups. To conclude, our findings indicate that miR-324-5p may play a suppressive role in colorectal cell viability and invasion, at least in part, through directly targeting ELAVL1. Therefore, miR-234-5p might function as a promising candidate for CRC treatment and deserves deeper research.

Nicotine promotes cervical metastasis of oral cancer by regulating peroxiredoxin 1 and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in mice

Background

Tobacco is a major risk factor for oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). However, the role of nicotine in OSCC is not completely understood.

Materials and methods

To analyze the mechanisms of nicotine-induced cervical metastasis, we investigated whether nicotine induced invasion, migration, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) via regulating peroxiredoxin 1 (Prx1) in CAL 27 cells. In addition, we established a mouse model to confirm the roles of nicotine in regulating Ets1/Prx1/EMT signaling in OSCC metastasis.

Results

We showed that nicotine induced CAL 27 cell invasion, migration, EMT, and Prx1 and Ets1 expression. Prx1 knockdown inhibited cell invasion, migration, and EMT. Ets1 silencing downregulated Prx1 expression and EMT. Prx1 and Ets1 were shown to interact in CAL 27 cells treated with nicotine, and nicotine could significantly upregulate the binding of the transcription factor Ets1 to the Prx1 gene promoter region. Additionally, an in vivo study showed that nicotine induced tumor metastasis and EMT. Prx1 knockdown inhibited cervical metastasis rates and EMT progression. No significant differences in metastasis rates and EMT-related marker expression levels were observed between vehicle- and nicotine-treated mice.

Conclusion

The results indicate that nicotine promotes cervical lymph node metastasis through regulating Ets1/Prx1/EMT signaling during OSCC pathogenesis; consequently, Prx1 may represent a potential target for the prevention and treatment of OSCC.

High CCL7 expression is associated with migration, invasion and bone metastasis of non-small cell lung cancer cells

Distant metastasis is the main cause of death for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients, with the bone as a more frequent metastatic site. The expression of various chemokines and their receptors may contribute to the predilection of organ specific metastasis. In this study, we demonstrated that CC chemokine ligand 7 (CCL7) and its receptors CCR1, CCR2 and CCR3 were up-regulated markedly in lung cancer bone metastasis. In addition, CCL7 promoted migration and invasion of lung cancer cells in a dose-dependent pattern but played an insignificant role in cell proliferation mainly through CCR3. Finally, we identified a cohort of critical downstream genes of CCL7 related to cancer metastasis using Illumina deep mRNA sequencing. These findings may help better understand the molecular aspects of bone metastasis in lung cancer, and prefigure a potential clinical value for the prevention of bone recurrences.

Expression profiles of exosomal miRNAs isolated from plasma of patients with desmoplastic small round cell tumor

AIM

Desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT) is a rare, aggressive mesenchymal tumor, lacking biomarkers for diagnosis, treatment stratification and prognosis. We investigated the exosomal miRNA profile in plasma samples collected from DSRCT patients, evaluating their potential as circulating biomarkers for this tumor.

PATIENTS & METHODS

We isolated exosomes from plasma of three DSRCT adolescents and four age-matched healthy controls; expression of circulating miRNAs was quantified by qPCR.

RESULTS

We identified 55 miRNAs significantly modulated compared with healthy controls. Among these miRNAs, 14 were highly dysregulated in at least one patient and 5 were expressed in all patients.

CONCLUSION

To our knowledge, this is the first report describing exosomal miRNAs as promising biomarkers to characterize disease status in DSRCT patients.

Potential regulatory role of circular RNA in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic, progressive type of interstitial pneumonia with unknown causes, poor prognosis and no effective therapy available. Circular RNAs (circRNAs), which serve as potential therapeutic targets and diagnostic biomarkers for certain diseases, represent a recent hotspot in the field of RNA research. In the present study, a total of 67 significantly dysregulated circRNAs were identified in the plasma of IPF patients by using a circRNA microarray. Among these circRNAs, 38 were upregulated, whereas 29 were downregulated. Further validation of the results by polymerase chain reaction analysis indicated that Homo sapiens (hsa)_circRNA_100906, hsa_circRNA_102100 and hsa_circRNA_102348 were significantly upregulated, whereas hsa_circRNA_101225, hsa_circRNA_104780 and hsa_circRNA_101242 were downregulated in plasma samples of IPF patients compared with those in samples from healthy controls. The majority of differentially expressed circRNAs were generated from exonic regions. The host genes of the differentially expressed circRNAs were involved in the regulation of the cell cycle, adherens junctions and RNA transport. The competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network of the circRNAs/micro(mi)RNAs/mRNAs indicated that circRNA-protected mRNA participated in transforming growth factor-β1, hypoxia-inducible factor-1, Wnt, Janus kinase, Rho-associated protein kinase, vascular endothelial growth factor, mitogen-activated protein kinase, Hedgehog and nuclear factor κB signalling pathways or functioned as biomarkers for pulmonary fibrosis. Furthermore, luciferase reporter assays confirmed that hsa_circRNA_100906 and hsa_circRNA_102348 directly interact with miR-324-5p and miR-630, respectively, which were downregulated in IPF patients. The present study provided a novel avenue for exploring the underlying molecular mechanisms of IPF disease.

MiR-324-5p reduces viability and induces apoptosis in gastric cancer cells through modulating TSPAN8

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to further clarify the role and underlying mechanism of miR-324-5p in gastric cancer.

METHODS

The expressions of miR-324-5p and TSPAN8 as determined by qRT-PCR or Western blot were compared between the gastric cancer tissues and normal tissues. Human gastric cancer cell line SGC-7901 was cultured and transfected with miR-324-5p mimic/inhibitor or pcDNA-TSPAN8. The cell survival was assessed by the cell viability and apoptosis. Luciferase reporter gene assays were performed to explore the interaction between miR-324-5p and TSPAN8 in SGC-7901 cells.

KEY FINDINGS

MiR-324-5p was decreased in human gastric carcinoma tissues (n = 33), but TSPAN8 protein expression was increased in the gastric carcinoma tissues (n = 33). Moreover, miR-324-5p inhibited the viability and induced the apoptosis of gastric cancer cells in vitro. TSPAN8 is a functional target of miR-324-5p in gastric cancer. MiR-324-5p was further confirmed to reduce gastric cancer cell viability and induce apoptosis via downregulating TSPAN8 in SGC-7901 cells in vitro. Additionally, miR-324-5p overexpression markedly inhibited the tumorigenesis of gastric cancer cells in vivo, as shown by the smaller tumour volume compared with the control.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggested a novel, probable mechanism of miR-324-5p in gastric cancer context and revealed that miR-324-5p inhibited gastric cancer cell survival by targeting TSPAN8.

4-Acetyl-Antroquinonol B Suppresses SOD2-Enhanced Cancer Stem Cell-Like Phenotypes and Chemoresistance of Colorectal Cancer Cells by Inducing hsa-miR-324 re-Expression

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a leading cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality in both sexes globally. This is not unconnected with the heterogeneity and plasticity of CRC stem cells (CRC-SCs) which stealthily exploit the niche-related and (epi)genetic factors to facilitate metastasis, chemoresistance, tumor recurrence, and disease progression. Despite the accumulating evidence of the role of dysregulated microRNAs in malignancies, the therapeutic efficacy of pharmacological-targeting of CRC-SC-associated microRNAs is relatively under-explored. Experimental approach: In this present study, we employed relatively new bioinformatics approaches, analyses of microarray data, Western blot, real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and functional assays to show that hsa-miR-324-5p expression is significantly suppressed in CRC cells, and inversely correlates with the aberrant expression of SOD2. Results: This converse hsa-miR-324-5p/SOD2 relationship is associated with enhanced oncogenicity, which is effectively inhibited by 4-acetylantroquinonol B (4-AAQB), as evidenced by inhibited cell viability and proliferation, as well as attenuated migration, invasion, and clonogenicity in 4-AAQB-treated DLD1 and HCT116 cells. Interestingly, 4-AAQB did not affect the viability and proliferation of normal colon cells. We also showed that 4-AAQB-induced re-expression of hsa-miR-324-5p, akin to short-interfering RNA, reduced SOD2 expression, correlates with the concurrent down-regulation of SOD2, N-cadherin, vimentin, c-Myc, and BcL-xL2, with concomitant up-regulation of E-cadherin and BAX2 proteins. Enhanced expression of hsa-miR-324-5p in the CRC cells suppressed their tumorigenicity in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, 4-AAQB synergistically potentiates the FOLFOX (folinate (leucovorin), fluorouracil (5FU), and oxaliplatin) anticancer effect by eliciting the re-expression of SOD2-suppressed hsa-miR-324, and inhibiting SOD2-mediated tumorigenicity. Conclusion: Our findings highlight the pre-clinical anti-CSC efficacy of 4-AAQB, with or without FOLFOX in CRC, and suggest a potential novel therapeutic strategy for CRC patients.

MicroRNA-324-5p suppresses the migration and invasion of MM cells by inhibiting the SCFβ-TrCP E3 ligase

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a cytogenetically heterogeneous malignancy of plasma cells in bone marrow. Among the cytogenetic abnormalities of MM, del(17p) is a well-recognized high-risk genetic lesion associated with the late stage and progression of the disease. MicroRNA (miR)-324-5p, located at 17p13.1, was identified to be involved in the dysregulation of a number of types of malignant disease. However, whether miR-324-5p is associated with the development and progression of MM remains unknown. In the present study, the expression status of miR-324-5p in MM, and its effect on the migratory and invasive ability of MM cells were investigated. Using ubiquitination pathway polymerase chain reaction array, the inhibitory effect of miR-324-5p on the ubiquitinated proteins was investigated. It was identified that miR-324-5p levels were decreased in samples from patients with MM and MM cell lines. Increased expression of miR-324-5p by transfection of miR-324-5p mimic suppressed the proliferative, migratory and invasive abilities of MM.1R cells. Furthermore, increased expression of miR-324-5p in MM.1R cells inhibited the ubiquitination pathway and decreased the levels of ubiquitination-associated proteins, particularly the Skp1-Cullin1-F-box β-transducin repeat-containing protein (SCF^β-TrCP) E3 ligase. In addition, the results of the present study demonstrated that the SCF^β-TrCP E3 ligase may contribute to the suppression of MM cell motility by inhibiting the expression of metastasis-associated genes, including metastasis suppressor 1. In conclusion, the results of the present study suggested that miR-324-5p may act as a tumor suppressor by impairing the motility of MM cells by suppressing the ubiquitination pathway.

Long non-coding RNA TPT1-AS1 promotes cell growth and metastasis in cervical cancer via acting AS a sponge for miR-324-5p

BACKGROUND

Increasing studies confirmed that abnormal lncRNAs expression play a critical role in cervical cancer (CC) development and progression. LncRNA TPT1-AS1, a novel lncRNA, its role and underlying mechanisms involved in CC remain largely unknown.

METHODS

Colony formation, EdU and Transwell assays were used to determine colony formation, proliferation, migration and invasion in vitro. The subcutaneous tumor model and tail vein injection lung metastasis model were performed to check tumor growth and metastasis in vivo. Luciferase activity and RIP experiment were carried out to determine the interaction between miR-324-5p and TPT1-AS1.

RESULTS

We demonstrated for the first time that TPT1-AS1 expression was up-regulated in CC tissues and cell lines. High TPT1-AS1 was significantly correlated with adverse prognostic characteristics and poor survival. TPT1-AS1 overexpression and knockdown experiments revealed that TPT1-AS1 promoted cell colony formation, proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT progression of CC cells in vitro and in vivo. The underlying mechanism indicated that TPT1-AS1 functioned as an endogenous sponge for miR-324-5p in CC cells. Gain- and loss- experiment confirmed that miR-324-5p inhibited cell colony formation, proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT progression of CC cells, and mediated the biological effects of TPT1-AS1. Further investigations confirmed that SP1 was a direct target of miR-324-5p and mediated the effects of TPT1-AS1 and miR-324-5p in CC.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated for the first time that TPT1-AS1 as an oncogenic lncRNA in CC progression and as a potential target for CC cure.

Profiling of 179 miRNA Expression in Blood Plasma of Lung Cancer Patients and Cancer-Free Individuals

Lung cancer is one of major cancers, and survival of lung cancer patients is dictated by the timely detection and diagnosis. Cell-free circulating miRNAs were proposed as candidate biomarkers for lung cancer. These RNAs are frequently deregulated in lung cancer and can persist in bodily fluids for extended periods of time, shielded from degradation by membrane vesicles and biopolymer complexes. To date, several groups reported the presence of lung tumour-specific subsets of miRNAs in blood. Here we describe the profiling of blood plasma miRNAs in lung cancer patients, healthy individuals and endobronchitis patients using miRCURY LNA miRNA qPCR Serum/Plasma Panel (Exiqon). From 241 ratios differently expressed between cancer patients and healthy individuals 19 miRNAs were selected for verification using the same platform. LASSO-penalized logistic regression model, including 10 miRNA ratios comprised of 14 individual miRNAs discriminated lung cancer patients from both control groups with AUC of 0.979.