LncRNA BANCR promotes tumorigenesis and enhances adriamycin resistance in colorectal cancer

Evaluation of expression level of BANCR, MALAT1 and FER1L4 and their target genes in coumarin-treated AGS cell line

Because long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) can affect several interconnected processes, its value as a predictive marker for gastric cancer has been demonstrated. Coumarin - a natural compound known to contain some beneficial antitumor qualities - was tested for its effects on AGS gastric cancer cells. In this study, we investigated the expression level of selected cellular lncRNAs (BANCR, MALAT1 and FER1L4) and their target genes (PTEN, p-PI3K and p-AKT) in coumarin-treated AGS cell line. The expressions of the three lncRNAs: BANCR, MALAT1 and FER1L4, as well as their specified targets, PTEN, PI3K and AKT, were measured by qRT-PCR. To gauge the impact of coumarin on the AGS cells, a MTT assay was utilized. A Western blot has been employed to assess variations in PTEN, p-PI3K, and p-AKT expression. The experiment's results showed that AGS viability diminished with increasing doses of coumarin. Compared to the control cells, the cells exposed to coumarin had showed reduced levels of mRNAs which are known targets of the lncRNA BANCR. At the same time, levels of lncRNAs MALAT1 and FER1L4 within coumarin group have been higher comparing to those within control group. Additionally, the Western blot analysis revealed that the coumarin-treated cells expressed lower levels of p-PI3K, PTEN as well as p-AKT compared to control group. This information points to coumarin being a possible option in a treatment regimen for gastric cancer due to its ability to affect lncRNAs and the molecules they target.

TRIP13 Activates Glycolysis to Promote Cell Stemness and Strengthen Doxorubicin Resistance of Colorectal Cancer Cells

BACKGROUND

Chemotherapy resistance is one of the main causes of clinical chemotherapy failure. Current cancer research explores the drug resistance mechanism and new therapeutic targets. This work aims to elucidate the mechanism of thyroid hormone receptor interactor 13 (TRIP13) affecting doxorubicin (DOX) resistance in colorectal cancer (CRC).

METHODS

Bioinformatics analyses were employed to clarify TRIP13 expression in CRC tissues and predict the correlation of the TRIP13 enrichment pathway with glycolysis-related genes and stemness index mRNAsi. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot were adopted to analyze the expression of TRIP13 and glycolysis- related genes. Cell Counting Kit-8 was utilized to determine the cell viability and IC50 value. Western blot was employed to measure the expression of stemness-related factors. Cell function assays were performed to detect cells' sphere-forming ability and glycolysis level. Animal models were constructed to determine the effects of TRIP13 expression on CRC tumor growth.

RESULTS

TRIP13 was significantly overexpressed in CRC, concentrated in the glycolysis signaling pathway, and positively correlated with stemness index mRNAsi. High expression of TRIP13 facilitated DOX resistance in CRC. Further mechanistic studies revealed that overexpression of TRIP13 could promote cell stemness through glycolysis, which was also confirmed in animal experiments.

CONCLUSION

TRIP13 was highly expressed in CRC, which enhanced the DOX resistance of CRC cells by activating glycolysis to promote cell stemness. These findings offer new insights into the pathogenesis of DOX resistance in CRC and suggest that TRIP13 may be a new target for reversing DOX resistance in CRC.

lncRNA BANCR promotes the colorectal cancer metastasis through accelerating exosomes-mediated M2 macrophage polarization via regulating RhoA/ROCK signaling

Cancer cells-derived exosomal lncRNAs could modulate the tumorigenesis of colorectal cancer (CRC) via modulating macrophage M2 polarization. However, the clarified mechanism and function of lncRNA BANCR in CRC remains unclear. Exosomes were identified by TEM, NTA, western blot and fluorescent staining. M2 macrophages were identified by CD206 and CD163 expressions using by flow cytometry and RT-qPCR. In addition, the relation between IGF2BP2 and BANCR or RhoA were explored by RIP assay. The malignant behaviors of CRC cells were examined by CCK-8, EdU and transwell assays. Histopathological changes in mice were observed by H&E staining. Silencing of BANCR notably inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of CRC cells. SW620 and HCT-15 cells-derived exosomal BANCR positively regulated the macrophage M2 polarization. In addition, exosomal BANCR remarkably enhanced the promoting roles mediated by M2 macrophages on proliferation and invasion in CRC cells. Meanwhile, exosomal BANCR promoted the M2 macrophage polarization via activation of RhoA/Rock pathway by recruiting IGF2BP2. Inhibition of RhoA/Rock pathway reversed exosomal BANCR-mediated macrophages M2 polarization and CRC malignant behaviors in SW620 and HCT-15 cells. Exosomal lncRNA BANCR derived from SW620 and HCT-15 cells promoted the metastasis of CRC via inducing the polarization of M2 macrophages. Thus, BANCR might be a new target for the treatment of CRC.

The potential relevance of long non-coding RNAs in colorectal cancer pathogenesis and treatment: A review focus on signaling pathways

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most frequent cancers in incidence and mortality. Despite advances in cancer biology, molecular genetics, and targeted treatments, CRC prognosis and survival have not kept pace. This is usually due to advanced staging and metastases at diagnosis. Thus, great importance has been placed upon understanding the molecular pathophysiology behind the development of CRC, which has highlighted the significance of non-coding RNA's role and associated intracellular signaling pathways in the pathogenesis of the disease. According to recent studies, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA), a subtype of ncRNAs whose length exceeds 200 nucleotides, have been found to have regulatory functions on multiple levels. Their actions at the transcription, post-transcriptional, translational levels, and epigenetic regulation have made them prime modulators of gene expression. Due to their role in cellular cancer hallmarks, their dysregulation has been linked to several illnesses, including cancer. Furthermore, their clinical relevance has expanded due to their possible detection in blood which has cemented them as potential future biomarkers and thus, potential targets for new therapy. This review will highlight the importance of lncRNAs and related signaling pathways in the development of CRC and their subsequent clinical applications.

BRAFV600E, BANCR, miR-203a-3p and miR-204-3p in Risk Stratification of PTC Patients

In order to enhance the risk stratification of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) patients, we assessed the presence of the most common mutation in PTC (BRAFV600E) with the expression profiles of long non-coding RNA activated by BRAFV600E (BANCR) and microRNAs, which share complementarity with BANCR (miR-203a-3p and miR-204-3p), and thereafter correlated it with several clinicopathological features of PTC. BRAFV600E was detected by mutant allele-specific PCR amplification. BANCR and miRs levels were determined by quantitative RT-PCR. Bioinformatic analysis was applied to determine the miRs' targets. The expression profile of miR-203a-3p/204-3p in PTC was not affected by BRAFV600E. In the BRAFV600E-positive PTC, high expression of miR-203a-3p correlated with extrathyroidal invasion (Ei), but the patients with both high miR-203a-3p and upregulated BANCR were not at risk of Ei. In the BRAFV600E-negative PTC, low expression of miR-204-3p correlated with Ei, intraglandular dissemination and pT status (p < 0.05), and the mutual presence of low miR-204-3p and upregulated BANCR increased the occurrence of Ei. Bioinformatic analysis predicted complementary binding between miR-203a-3p/204-3p and BANCR. The co-occurrence of tested factors might influence the spreading of PTC. These findings partially describe the complicated network of interactions that may occur during the development of PTC aggressiveness, potentially providing a new approach for high-risk PTC patient selection.

Fasting regulates mitochondrial function through lncRNA PRKCQ-AS1-mediated IGF2BPs in papillary thyroid carcinoma

Recurring evidence suggests that fasting has extensive antitumor effects in various cancers, including papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). However, the underlying mechanism of this relationship with PTC is unknown. In this study, we study the effect of fasting on glycolysis and mitochondrial function in PTC. We find that fasting impairs glycolysis and reduces mitochondrial dysfunction in vitro and in vivo and also fasting in vitro and fasting mimicking diets (FMD) in vivo significantly increase the expression of lncRNA-protein kinase C theta antisense RNA 1 (PRKCQ-AS1), during the inhibition of TPC cell glycolysis and mitochondrial function. Moreover, lncRNA PRKCQ-AS1 was significantly lower in PTC tissues and cells. In addition, PRKCQ-AS1 overexpression increased PTC cell glycolysis and mitochondrial function; PRKCQ-AS1 knockdown has the opposite effect. On further mechanistic analysis, we identified that PRKCQ-AS1 physically interacts with IGF2BPs and enhances protein arginine methyltransferases 7 (PRMT7) mRNA, which is the key player in regulating glycolysis and mitochondrial function in PTC. Hence, PRKCQ-AS1 inhibits tumor growth while regulating glycolysis and mitochondrial functions via IGF2BPs/PRMT7 signaling. These results indicate that lncRNA PRKCQ-AS1 is a key downstream target of fasting and is involved in PTC metabolic reprogramming. Further, the PRKCQ-AS1/IGF2BPs/PRMT7 axis is an ideal therapeutic target for PTC diagnosis and treatment.

The role of CSE1L silencing in the regulation of proliferation and apoptosis via the AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway in chronic myeloid leukemia

OBJECTIVES

Chromosome segregation 1-like (CSE1L) is abundant and strongly expressed in solid tumors. However, the expression and role of CSE1L in chronic myeloid leukemia(CML) remain largely unknown.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The relative expression levels of CSE1L in bone marrow granulocytes from patients with primary CML and non-hematologic controls were measured by flow cytometry. Cell counting kit-8 analysis, DNA Content Quantitation Assay, and Annexin V-PE/7-AAD staining were applied to assess the effects of CSE1L knockdown on cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, and apoptosis.

RESULTS

Elevated expression of CSE1L was detected in bone marrow granulocytes of patients with primary CML. In the CML cell line K562 cells, CSE1L knockdown impaired cell proliferation blocked the cell cycle shift from G0/G1 phase to the S phase, and promoted apoptosis. Knockdown of CSE1L reduced Bcl-2 protein expression and increased Bax protein expression. Meanwhile, knockdown of CSE1L enhanced the expression of phospho-AMPK protein and decreased the expression of phospho-mTOR protein. The expression of total AMPK and mTOR proteins was not affected. In addition, CSE1L expression levels were decreased in imatinib-treated K562 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

CSE1L plays a pivotal role in K562 cell survival and growth. These functions may be partially dependent on the AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway to achieve. In addition, CSE1L may have had a future impact on the treatment of CML patients.

Exosomal non-coding RNAs: Blueprint in colorectal cancer metastasis and therapeutic targets

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is ranked as the world's third-most prevalent cancer, and metastatic CRC considerably increases cancer-related fatalities globally. A number of complex mechanisms that are strictly controlled at the molecular level are involved in metastasis, which is the primary reason for death in people with CRC. Recently, it has become clear that exosomes, which are small extracellular vesicles released by non-tumorous and tumorigenic cells, play a critical role as communication mediators among tumor microenvironment (TME). To facilitate communication between the TME and cancer cells, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) play a crucial role and are recognized as potent regulators of gene expression and cellular processes, such as metastasis and drug resistance. NcRNAs are now recognized as potent regulators of gene expression and many hallmarks of cancer, including metastasis. Exosomal ncRNAs, like miRNAs, circRNAs, and lncRNAs, have been demonstrated to influence a number of cellular mechanisms that contribute to CRC metastasis. However, the molecular mechanisms that link exosomal ncRNAs with CRC metastasis are not well understood. This review highlights the essential roles that exosomal ncRNAs play in the progression of CRC metastatic disease and explores the therapeutic choices that are open to patients who have CRC metastases. However, exosomal ncRNA treatment strategy development is still in its early phases; consequently, additional investigation is required to improve delivery methods and find novel therapeutic targets as well as confirm the effectiveness and safety of these therapies in preclinical and clinical contexts.

STM2457 Inhibits the Invasion and Metastasis of Pancreatic Cancer by Down-Regulating BRAF-Activated Noncoding RNA N6-Methyladenosine Modification

Pancreatic cancer is a malignant tumor of the digestive system that is highly malignant, difficult to treat, and confers a poor prognosis for patients. BRAF-activated noncoding RNA (BANCR) has been proven to play an important role in the invasion and metastasis of pancreatic cancer. In this study, we focused on BANCR as a potential therapeutic target for human pancreatic cancer. The BANCR level in pancreatic cancer tissues and cells is affected by m6A methylation. Based on this, the aim of our study was to investigate the effect of a highly potent and selective first-in-class catalytic inhibitor of METTL3 (STM2457) on BANCR m6A methylation and its malignant biological behaviors in pancreatic cancer. The relationship between BANCR expression and BANCR m6A modification was detected with RT-qPCR and MeRIP-PCR. The expression of methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3), the key enzyme involved in m6A methylation, in pancreatic cancer tissues was detected using a Western blot. STM2457 was used in vitro to investigate its resistance to the proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of pancreatic cancer cells. BANCR was overexpressed in pancreatic cancer tissues and cells, which was associated with poor clinical outcomes and validated in pancreatic cancer cell lines. m6A modification was highly enriched within BANCR and enhanced its expression. Remarkably, STM2457 inhibited the proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of pancreatic cancer cells by down-regulating BANCR m6A modifications. This study demonstrates the promise of BANCR as a new diagnostic and therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer and reveals the therapeutic effect that STM2457 exerts on pancreatic cancer by down-regulating BANCR m6A modifications.

Crosstalk between long non-coding RNAs and p53 signaling pathway in colorectal cancer: A review study

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most prevalent malignancies worldwide and the third leading cause of cancer-related fatalities. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are key regulators of diverse physiological processes and are dysregulated in a wide range of pathophysiological circumstances such as CRC. Studies revealed that aberrant expressions of lncRNAs clearly modulate the expression level of p53 gene in CRC, thereby transactivating multiple downstream pathways. P53 is regarded as a crucial tumor suppressor gene which promotes cell-cycle arrest, DNA repair, senescence or apoptosis in response to cellular stresses. P53 is also mutated in CRC as well as various types of human malignancies. Therefore, lncRNAs interact with the p53 signaling pathway in numerus ways and significantly influence CRC-related processes. The current findings in the investigation of the crosstalk between lncRNAs and the P53 pathway in controlling CRC carcinogenesis, tumor progression, and therapeutic resistance are summarized in the this review. A deeper knowledge of CRC carcinogenesis may also have implications in CRC prevention and treatment through more research.

Study of LncRNA BANCR Expression in Tumor Tissues and Adjacent Normal Tissues in Gastric Cancer Patients

Background

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as crucial regulators in various biological processes, including cancer development and progression. This study aimed to investigate the expression differences of the BRAF-activated non-coding RNA (BANCR) gene in GC tissues compared to adjacent normal tissues. The potential diagnostic significance of BANCR in GC was explored, with the aim of improving diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for this global health burden.

Materials and Methods

Tissue samples from 100 gastric cancer (GC) patients were collected, and BANCR expression was analyzed using quantitative real-time PCR. Correlations between BANCR expression and clinicopathological features were assessed, and its biomarker potential was evaluated.

Results

In individuals diagnosed with GC, the expression of BANCR was notably elevated in tumor tissues compared to adjacent normal tissues (P < 0.0001). However, the analysis of gene expression data did not demonstrate any statistically significant correlation between elevated BANCR expression and clinicopathological features. According to the ROC analysis, BANCR demonstrated an AUC of 0.6733 (P < 0.0001), with a sensitivity of 73% and a specificity of 45%. However, further evaluation is required to determine its potential as a biomarker (CI 95% = 0.5992 to 0.7473).

Conclusions

The observed upregulation of BANCR in GC tissues implies its potential involvement as an oncogenic lncRNA in GC patients. Furthermore, BANCR may serve as a promising biomarker for identification and treatment of GC.

Mechanisms of circRNA/lncRNA-miRNA interactions and applications in disease and drug research

In recent years, breakthroughs in bioinformatics have been made with the discovery of many functionally significant non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). The discovery of these ncRNAs has further demonstrated the multi-level characteristics of intracellular gene expression regulation, which plays an important role in assisting diagnosis, guiding clinical drug use and determining prognosis in the treatment process of various diseases. microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs) are the three major types of ncRNAs that interact with each other. Studies have shown that lncRNAs and circRNAs can sponge miRNAs, thereby influencing normal physiological processes and regulating mRNA expression and, thus, the physiological state of cells. This paper summarizes the mechanism of action and research progress of the three ncRNA and seven types of modalities. This summary is intended to provide new ideas for diagnosing and treating diseases and researching and developing new drugs.

Long noncoding RNA RFPL1S-202 inhibits ovarian cancer progression by downregulating the IFN-β/STAT1 signaling

BACKGROUND

RFPL1S was first identified as one of the pseudogenes located in the intrachromosomal duplications within 22q12-13. Our previous study found that one of the predicted transcripts of lncRNA RFPL1S, ENST00000419368.1 (GRCh37/hg19), also named as RFPL1S-202 in Ensembl website, is significantly downregulated in the chemoresistant ovarian cancer cells. However, its function and underlying mechanism have not been studied.

METHODS

Quantitative Real-time PCR was used to analyze the expression. Cell Counting Kit-8, transwell, flow cytometry analysis and tail vein injected mouse model were used to test the function. RNA-sequencing, RNA pull down, western blot, ELISA and RNA-Binding Protein Immunoprecipitation were performed for studying the mechanism. 5' and 3' rapid amplification of complementary DNA ends were performed to analyze the full length of RFPL1S-202.

RESULTS

RFPL1S-202 is significantly downregulated in epithelial ovarian cancer tissues and cell lines. Gain- and loss-of-function study indicated that RFPL1S-202 could enhance cisplatin or paclitaxel in cytotoxicity, inhibit cell proliferation, invasion and migration of ovarian cancer cells in vitro, and inhibit the liver metastasis of ovarian cancer cells in vivo. Mechanistically, RFPL1S-202 could physically interact with DEAD-Box Helicase 3 X-linked (DDX3X) protein, and decrease the expression of p-STAT1 and the IFN inducible genes by increasing the m6A modification of IFNB1. RFPL1S-202 is a spliced and polyadenylated non-coding RNA with a full length of 1071 bp.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggested that the predicted lncRNA RFPL1S-202 exerts a tumor- suppressive function in oarian cancer chemoresistance and progression by interacting with DDX3X and down-regulating the IFN-β-STAT1 signaling pathway.

Role of Non-Coding RNAs in Colorectal Cancer: Focus on Long Non-Coding RNAs

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Despite the advances in the knowledge of pathogenetic molecular mechanisms and the implementation of more effective drug treatments in recent years, the overall survival rate of patients remains unsatisfactory. The high death rate is mainly due to metastasis of cancer in about half of the cancer patients and the emergence of drug-resistant populations of cancer cells. Improved understanding of cancer molecular biology has highlighted the role of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in colorectal cancer development and evolution. ncRNAs regulate gene expression through various mechanisms, including epigenetic modifications and interactions of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) with both microRNAs (miRNAs) and proteins, and through the action of lncRNAs as miRNA precursors or pseudogenes. LncRNAs can also be detected in the blood and circulating ncRNAs have become a new source of non-invasive cancer biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of colorectal cancer, as well as for predicting the response to drug therapy. In this review, we focus on the role of lncRNAs in colorectal cancer development, progression, and chemoresistance, and as possible therapeutic targets.

Comprehensive landscape and future perspectives of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in colorectal cancer (CRC): Based on a bibliometric analysis

This review aimed to use bibliometric analysis to sort out, analyze and summarize the knowledge foundation and hot topics in the field of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in colorectal cancer (CRC), and point out future trends to inspire related research and innovation. We used CiteSpace to analyze publication outputs, countries, institutions, authors, journals, references, and keywords. Knowledge foundations, hotspots, and future trends were then depicted. The overall research showed the trend of biomedical-oriented multidisciplinary. Much evidence indicates that lncRNA plays the role of oncogene or tumor suppressor in the occurrence and development of CRC. Besides, many lncRNAs have multiple mechanisms. lncRNAs and metastasis of CRC, lncRNAs and drug resistance of CRC, and the clinical application of lncRNAs in CRC are current research hotspots. Through insight into the development trend of lncRNAs in CRC, this study will help researchers extract hidden valuable information for further research.

Discovery and Validation of Clinically Relevant Long Non-Coding RNAs in Colorectal Cancer

Simple Summary

Recent efforts in biomedical research have focused on the identification of molecular biomarkers to improve the diagnosis, prognosis and eventually treatment of the most common human diseases worldwide, including cancer. In this context, a large number of studies point to a pivotal role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the pathophysiology of carcinogenesis, suggesting diagnostic or therapeutic potential. However, for most of them, supporting evidence is scarce and often based on a single large-scale analysis. Here, focusing on colorectal cancer (CRC), we present an overview of the main approaches for discovering and validating lncRNA candidate molecules, and provide a curated list of the most promising lncRNAs associated with this malignancy.

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most prevalent cancer worldwide, with nearly two million newly diagnosed cases each year. The survival of patients with CRC greatly depends on the cancer stage at the time of diagnosis, with worse prognosis for more advanced cases. Consequently, considerable effort has been directed towards improving population screening programs for early diagnosis and identifying prognostic markers that can better inform treatment strategies. In recent years, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been recognized as promising molecules, with diagnostic and prognostic potential in many cancers, including CRC. Although large-scale genome and transcriptome sequencing surveys have identified many lncRNAs that are altered in CRC, most of their roles in disease onset and progression remain poorly understood. Here, we critically review the variety of detection methods and types of supporting evidence for the involvement of lncRNAs in CRC. In addition, we provide a reference catalog that features the most clinically relevant lncRNAs in CRC. These lncRNAs were selected based on recent studies sorted by stringent criteria for both supporting experimental evidence and reproducibility.

Extracellular Vesicles-Encapsulated miR-153-3p Potentiate the Survival and Invasion of Lung Adenocarcinoma

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) play an essential role in the communication between cells and the tumor micro-environment. However, the effect of tumor-derived EVs on the growth and metastasis of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remains to be explored. This study aimed to elucidate the role of miR-153-3p-EVs in the invasion and migration capabilities of LUAD cells and explore its mechanism through in vivo and in vitro experiments. We found that miR-153-3p was specifically and highly expressed in LUAD and its secreted EVs. Furthermore, the expression of BANCR was negatively regulated by miR-153-3p and identified as a target gene of miR-153-3p using luciferase reporter assays. Through further investigation, we found that the downregulation of BANCR activates the PI3K/AKT pathway and accelerates the process of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which ultimately leads to the aggravation of LUAD. The orthotopic xenograft mouse model was established to illustrate the effect of miR-153-3p-EVs on LUAD. Animal studies showed that miR-153-3p-EVs accelerated tumor growth in mice. Besides, we found that miR-153-3p-EVs could damage the respiratory ability of mice and produce a mass of inflammatory cells around the lung tissue of mice. Nevertheless, antagomir-153-3p treatment could inhibit the deterioration of respiratory function and inhibit the growth of lung tumors in mice. In conclusion, our study reveals the potential molecular mechanism of miR-153-3p-EVs in the development of LUAD and provides a potential strategy for the treatment of LUAD.

LncRNA PVT1 contributes to invasion and doxorubicin resistance of bladder cancer cells through promoting MDM2 expression and AURKB-mediated p53 ubiquitination

In most bladder cancer (BC) patients, cancer cells will eventually develop chemical resistance causing increased mortality. This study aimed to explore the mechanism of lncRNA plasmacytoma variant translocation 1 (PVT1) in regulating doxorubicin (ADM) resistance of BC cells. We observed that PVT1 expression was upregulated in ADM-resistant BC cells compared with ADM-sensitive BC cells. Downregulation of PVT1 suppressed ADM-resistant BC cell proliferation and invasion, promoted apoptosis, and increased sensitivity to ADM, while PVT1 overexpression promoted ADM-sensitive BC cell growth and their resistance to ADM. Further study uncovered that PVT1 could interact with and promote mouse double minute 2 (MDM2) expression, and upregulated MDM2-mediated Aurora kinase B (AURKB). Furthermore, Nutlin-3, an inhibitor of MDM2, could counteract the promotive effects of PVT1 overexpression on ADM resistance of ADM-sensitive BC cell, the expression of multidrug-resistance-related proteins, and the inhibition of p53-mediated tumor suppressor genes. And, overexpression of MDM2 or AURKB reversed the promotive effects of PVT1 silence on the ADM sensitivity of ADM-resistant BC cell, and the inhibitory effect on expression multidrug resistance proteins. Mechanically, AURKB increased MDM2-mediated p53 ubiquitination. Taken together, PVT1 promoted BC cell proliferation and drug resistance via elevating MDM2 expression and AURKB-mediated p53 ubiquitination.

LINC00586 Represses ASXL1 Expression Thus Inducing Epithelial-To-Mesenchymal Transition of Colorectal Cancer Cells Through LSD1-Mediated H3K4me2 Demethylation

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major public health problem on a global scale by virtue of its relatively high incidence. The transition of tumor cells from an epithelial to a mesenchymal-like phenotype, so-called epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), is a key hallmark of human cancer metastasis, including CRC. Understanding the signaling events that initiate this phenotypic switch may provide opportunities to limit the metastasis of CRC. In this study, we aim to identify long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) mediated epigenetic regulation under the context of CRC. 54 paired samples of tumor tissues and surrounding non-tumor tissues were collected from CRC patients. Cultured human CRC cells HCT116 and LoVo were assayed for their viability and migration using CCK-8 tests and transwell migration assays. The expression of EMT-specific markers (E-cadherin, N-cadherin and vimentin) was analyzed biochemically by RT-qPCR and immunoblot analyses. Interaction among LINC00586, LSD1, and ASXL1 was determined by RNA immunoprecipitation and chromatin immunoprecipitation. In vivo analysis of LINC00586 was performed in nude mice xenografted with HCT116 cells. LINC00586 was overexpressed in CRC tissues and associated with patient survival. LINC00586 knockdown repressed HCT116 and LoVo cell viability, migration, their phenotypic switch from epithelial to a mesenchymal, and tumorigenesis in vivo. We demonstrated LINC00586 recruited the LSD1 into the ASXL1 promoter region and epigenetically silenced the ASXL1 expression. An ASXL1 gene resisting to LINC00586 attack was demonstrated in cultured HCT116 and LoVo cells and mouse xenograft models of human CRC. Overall, discovery of the LINC00586/LSD1/ASXL1 axis partially explains epigenetic mechanism regulating EMT in CRC, providing a therapeutic target to limit CRC metastasis.

MicroRNAs and 'Sponging' Competitive Endogenous RNAs Dysregulated in Colorectal Cancer: Potential as Noninvasive Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract in mammals is comprised of dozens of cell types with varied functions, structures, and histological locations that respond in a myriad of ways to epigenetic and genetic factors, environmental cues, diet, and microbiota. The homeostatic functioning of these cells contained within this complex organ system has been shown to be highly regulated by the effect of microRNAs (miRNA). Multiple efforts have uncovered that these miRNAs are often tightly influential in either the suppression or overexpression of inflammatory, apoptotic, and differentiation-related genes and proteins in a variety of cell types in colorectal cancer (CRC). The early detection of CRC and other GI cancers can be difficult, attributable to the invasive nature of prophylactic colonoscopies. Additionally, the levels of miRNAs associated with CRC in biofluids can be contradictory and, therefore, must be considered in the context of other inhibiting competitive endogenous RNAs (ceRNA) such as lncRNAs and circRNAs. There is now a high demand for disease treatments and noninvasive screenings such as testing for bloodborne or fecal miRNAs and their inhibitors/targets. The breadth of this review encompasses current literature on well-established CRC-related miRNAs and the possibilities for their use as biomarkers in the diagnoses of this potentially fatal GI cancer.

Circular RNA circ-RNF121 contributes to cisplatin (DDP) resistance of non-small-cell lung cancer cells by regulating the miR-646/SOX4 axis

Chemo-resistance is considered a major obstacle in the clinical treatment of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Circular RNA (circRNA) circ-RNF121 (hsa_circ_0023404) has been identified to be related to the cisplatin (DDP) resistance. However, the role and mechanism of circ-RNF121 in the DDP resistance in NSCLC are still unknown. Real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was applied to detect the levels of circ-RNF121, microRNA-646 (miR-646) and SRY-related HMG box transcription factor 4 (SOX4). Cell viability, proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion and cell cycle progression were assessed by 3-(4, 5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2, 5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT), colony formation, flow cytometry, wound-healing, transwell and flow cytometry assays, severally. The binding relationship between miR-646 and circ-RNF121 or SOX4 was predicted by the circular RNA interactome or Target Scan Human7.2 and then verified by a dual-luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays. SOX4 protein level was measured by western blot assay. The biological role of circ-RNF121 on NSCLC tumor growth and drug resistance was examined by the xenograft tumor model in vivo. Circ-RNF121 and SOX4 were increased, and miR-646 was declined in DDP-resistant NSCLC tissues and cells. Furthermore, the circ-RNF121 deficiency could enhance DDP sensitivity by inhibiting cell proliferation, migration, invasion, cell cycle progression and promoting apoptosis in DDP-resistant NSCLC cells in vitro. Mechanically, circ-RNF121 served as a sponge of miR-646 to increase SOX4 expression. Circ-RNF121 knockdown improved the drug sensitivity of NSCLC in vivo. Circ-RNF121 silencing could reduce the DDP resistance of NSCLC cells by regulating SOX4 expression via miR-646. These findings hinted at a promising therapeutic target for NSCLC treatment.

Silencing of H19 alleviates oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation-triggered injury through the regulation of the miR-1306-5p/BCL2L13 axis

Cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury remains a leading cause of death and disability. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) exert key functions in cerebral I/R injury. Here, we sought to elucidate the mechanism underlying the regulation of H19 in cerebral I/R cell injury. An in vitro model of cerebral I/R injury was created using oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R). The levels of H19, miR-1306-5p and B cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2)-like 13 (BCL2L13) were assessed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) or western blot. Cell viability and apoptosis were determined by the Cell Counting-8 Kit (CCK-8) assay and flow cytometry, respectively. The levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and cytokines were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Direct relationships among H19, miR-1306-5p and BCL2L13 were verified by dual-luciferase reporter, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and RNA pulldown assays. Our data showed that H19 and BCL2L13 were highly expressed in the cerebral I/R injury rats and OGD/R-triggered SK-N-SH and IMR-32 cells. The knockdown of H19 or BLC2L13 alleviated OGD/R-triggered injury in SK-N-SH and IMR-32 cells. Moreover, H19 silencing protected against OGD/R-triggered cell injury by down-regulating BCL2L13. H19 acted as a sponge of miR-1306-5p and BCL2L13 was a direct target of miR-1306-5p. H19 mediated BCL2L13 expression by sequestering miR-1306-5p. Furthermore, miR-1306-5p was a molecular mediator of H19 function. These results suggested that H19 silencing alleviated OGD/R-triggered I/R injury at least partially depending on the regulation of the miR-1306-5p/BCL2L13 axis.

Long Non-Coding RNA: A Potential Strategy for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC), being one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers worldwide, endangers human health. Because the pathological mechanism of CRC is not fully understood, there are many challenges in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of this disease. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have recently drawn great attention for their potential roles in the different stages of CRC formation, invasion, and progression, including regulation of molecular signaling pathways, apoptosis, autophagy, angiogenesis, tumor metabolism, immunological responses, cell cycle, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). This review aims to discuss the potential mechanisms of several oncogenic lncRNAs, as well as several suppressor lncRNAs, in CRC occurrence and development to aid in the discovery of new methods for CRC diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis assessment.

CSE1L silencing impairs tumor progression via MET/STAT3/PD-L1 signaling in lung cancer

CSE1L is involved in the cancer progression of several types of cancer. Its expression status, potential oncogenic role and underlying mechanism in lung cancer, however, are unclear. Here, we investigated CSE1L expression in primary lung adenocarcinoma based on multiple datasets and then investigated its oncologic role in lung cancer. We also examined the potential molecular mechanisms of CSE1L in cancer progression. CSE1L levels were increased in cancer as compared to normal lung tissues. CSE1L expression was higher in poorly-differentiated late stage and lymph node positive metastatic tumors. Higher CSE1L level was correlated with worse patient outcome. Knockdown of CSE1L using siRNAs impaired cell proliferation, invasion, migration and induced cell apoptosis. Mechanistically, MET, STAT3 and PD-L1 proteins were decreased upon CSE1L silencing. These results suggest that CSE1L may affect tumor progression through MET/STAT3/PD-L1 signaling. CSE1L may have potential as a biomarker and therapeutic target for lung cancer.

The microRNA-451a/chromosome segregation 1-like axis suppresses cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and induces apoptosis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma

MicroRNA-451a (miR-451a) has been implicated in the initiation and progression of multiple cancers. However, the regulatory mechanisms underlying its function in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) are poorly understood. Thus, we investigated in detail the role of the microRNA-451a/chromosome segregation 1-like (miR-45a/CSE1L) axis and its regulatory mechanism in NPC. We examined the levels of miR-451a and CSE1L in NPC, and assessed the effects of miR-451a and CSE1L on NPC by cell functional experiments. Furthermore, we elucidated the direct regulatory effect of miR-451a on CSE1L by the luciferase reporter assay, RNA pull-down assay, and RNA immunoprecipitation and validated our observations by calculating the Pearson's correlation coefficient. We found that miR-451a was down-regulated in NPC cells, and its over-expression attenuated cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, and tumor growth in 5-8 F and SUNE-1 cells and promoted apoptosis. Moreover, CSE1L was the direct gene target of miR-451a, and its over-expression abrogated miR-451a-dependent inhibition of malignancy in 5-8 F and SUNE-1 cells. The Pearson's correlation coefficient indicated a negative correlation between CSE1L and miR-451a. miR-451a serves as a tumor suppressor and targets CSE1L. miR-451a suppresses CSE1L expression, thereby reducing proliferation, invasion, and migration and increasing apoptosis of NPC cells.

Long non-coding RNAs as the critical regulators of doxorubicin resistance in tumor cells

Resistance against conventional chemotherapeutic agents is one of the main reasons for tumor relapse and poor clinical outcomes in cancer patients. Various mechanisms are associated with drug resistance, including drug efflux, cell cycle, DNA repair and apoptosis. Doxorubicin (DOX) is a widely used first-line anti-cancer drug that functions as a DNA topoisomerase II inhibitor. However, DOX resistance has emerged as a large hurdle in efficient tumor therapy. Furthermore, despite its wide clinical application, DOX is a double-edged sword: it can damage normal tissues and affect the quality of patients’ lives during and after treatment. It is essential to clarify the molecular basis of DOX resistance to support the development of novel therapeutic modalities with fewer and/or lower-impact side effects in cancer patients. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have critical roles in the drug resistance of various tumors. In this review, we summarize the state of knowledge on all the lncRNAs associated with DOX resistance. The majority are involved in promoting DOX resistance. This review paves the way to introducing an lncRNA panel marker for the prediction of the DOX response and clinical outcomes for cancer patients.

Role of lncRNA BANCR in Human Cancers: An Updated Review

Being located in a gene desert region on 9q21.11-q21.12, BRAF-activated non-protein coding RNA (BANCR) is an lncRNA with 693 bp length. It has been discovered in 2012 in a research aimed at assessment of gene expression in the melanocytes in association with BRAF mutation. Increasing numbers of studies have determined its importance in the tumorigenesis through affecting cell proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis, and epithelial to mesenchymal transition. BANCR exerts its effects via modulating some tumor-related signaling pathways particularly MAPK and other regulatory mechanisms such as sponging miRNAs. BANCR has been up-regulated in endometrial, gastric, breast, melanoma, and retinoblastoma. Conversely, it has been down-regulated in some other cancers such as those originated from lung, bladder, and renal tissues. In some cancer types such as colorectal cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma and papillary thyroid carcinoma, there is no agreement about BANCR expression, necessitating the importance of additional functional studies in these tissues. In the present manuscript, we review the investigations related to BANCR expression changes in cancerous cell lines, clinical samples, and animal models of cancer. We also discuss the outcome of its deregulation in cancer progression, prognosis, and the underlying mechanisms of these observations.

Rutin attenuates Sorafenib-induced Chemoresistance and Autophagy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma by regulating BANCR/miRNA-590-5P/OLR1 Axis

Rutin, the main component of Potentilla discolor Bunge, was proven to exhibit anti-tumor properties. Sorafenib (SO) is conventionally used in chemotherapy against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but acquired resistance developed during long-term therapy limits its benefits. This study aimed to explore the molecular mechanism of rutin in SO-induced autophagy and chemoresistance in HCC. Sixty-eight paired HCC patients who received the same chemotherapy treatment were obtained. We also established two SO resistance cell lines and then utilized high-throughput RNA sequencing to explore their long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) expression profiles. The target microRNA (miRNA) and downstream mRNA were also explored. Our results indicated that rutin treatment attenuates autophagy and BANCR expression in SO resistance cells. Transmission electron microscopy clearly showed a significantly decreased number of autophagosomes after rutin-treated HepG2/SO and HCCLM3/SO cells. BANCR knockdown promotes the sensitivity of SO resistance cells to SO. Further study found that BANCR acts as a molecular sponge of miR-590-5P to sequester miR-590-5P away from oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor 1 (OLR1) in HCC cells. Furthermore, in vivo study demonstrated that rutin could inhibit autophagy through the BANCR/miRNA-590-5P/OLR1 axis. Our findings suggest that rutin could regulate autophagy by regulating BANCR/miRNA-590-5P/OLR1 axis.

miRNA Clusters with Up-Regulated Expression in Colorectal Cancer

Simple Summary

As miRNAs show the capacity to be used as CRC biomarkers, we analysed experimentally validated data about frequently up-regulated miRNA clusters in CRC tissue. We identified 15 clusters that showed increased expression in CRC: miR-106a/363, miR-106b/93/25, miR-17/92a-1, miR-181a-1/181b-1, miR-181a-2/181b-2, miR-181c/181d, miR-183/96/182, miR-191/425, miR-200c/141, miR-203a/203b, miR-222/221, mir-23a/27a/24-2, mir-29b-1/29a, mir-301b/130b and mir-452/224. Cluster positions in the genome are intronic or intergenic. Most clusters are regulated by several transcription factors, and by long non-coding RNAs. In some cases, co-expression of miRNA with other cluster members or host gene has been proven. miRNA expression patterns in cancer tissue, blood and faeces were compared. The members of the selected clusters target 181 genes. Their functions and corresponding pathways were revealed with the use of Panther analysis. Clusters miR-17/92a-1, miR-106a/363, miR-106b/93/25 and miR-183/96/182 showed the strongest association with metastasis occurrence and poor patient survival, implicating them as the most promising targets of translational research.

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignancies in Europe and North America. Early diagnosis is a key feature of efficient CRC treatment. As miRNAs can be used as CRC biomarkers, the aim of the present study was to analyse experimentally validated data on frequently up-regulated miRNA clusters in CRC tissue and investigate their members with respect to clinicopathological characteristics of patients. Based on available data, 15 up-regulated clusters, miR-106a/363, miR-106b/93/25, miR-17/92a-1, miR-181a-1/181b-1, miR-181a-2/181b-2, miR-181c/181d, miR-183/96/182, miR-191/425, miR-200c/141, miR-203a/203b, miR-222/221, mir-23a/27a/24-2, mir-29b-1/29a, mir-301b/130b and mir-452/224, were selected. The positions of such clusters in the genome can be intronic or intergenic. Most clusters are regulated by several transcription factors, and miRNAs are also sponged by specific long non-coding RNAs. In some cases, co-expression of miRNA with other cluster members or host gene has been proven. miRNA expression patterns in cancer tissue, blood and faeces were compared. Based on experimental evidence, 181 target genes of selected clusters were identified. Panther analysis was used to reveal the functions of the target genes and their corresponding pathways. Clusters miR-17/92a-1, miR-106a/363, miR-106b/93/25 and miR-183/96/182 showed the strongest association with metastasis occurrence and poor patient survival, implicating them as the most promising targets of translational research.

Long non-coding RNAs in colorectal cancer: Novel oncogenic mechanisms and promising clinical applications

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common malignancy and ranks as the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Despite the improvements in CRC diagnosis and treatment approaches, a considerable proportion of CRC patients still suffers from poor prognosis due to late disease detections and lack of personalized disease managements. Recent evidences have not only provided important molecular insights into their mechanistic behaviors but also indicated that identification of cancer-specific long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) could benefit earlier disease detections and improve treatment outcomes in patients suffering from CRC. LncRNAs have raised extensive attentions as they participate in various hallmarks of CRC. The mechanistic evidence gleaned in the recent decade clearly reveals that lncRNAs exert their oncogenic roles by regulating autophagy, epigenetic modifications, enhancing stem phenotype and modifying tumor microenvironment. In view of their pleiotropic functional roles in malignant progression, and their frequently dysregulated expression in CRC patients, they have great potential to be reliable diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, as well as therapeutic targets for CRC. In the present review, we will focus on the oncogenic roles of lncRNAs and related mechanisms in CRC as well as discuss their clinical potential in the early diagnosis, prognostic prediction and therapeutic translation in patients with this malignancy.

Long non‑coding RNA BANCR promotes proliferation, invasion and migration in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cells via the Raf/MEK/ERK signaling pathway

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a major histological type of esophageal cancer, identified as a leading cause of tumor-associated death worldwide. In addition, long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) BRAF-activated non-coding RNA (BANCR) expression is increased in the plasma of patients with ESCC, which can be reversed by tumor resection. Thus, the aim of the present study was to investigate the underlying mechanism of BANCR in ESCC progression. The relative mRNA expression of BANCR was determined via reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. The cell behaviors of Eca-109 cells were detected using Cell Counting Kit-8, colony formation, wound healing and Transwell chamber assays. Finally, the expression levels of proteins involved in the Raf/MEK/ERK signaling pathway and cell metastasis were analyzed with western blotting. The results revealed that lncRNA BANCR was highly expressed in ESCC cells compared with in normal esophageal cells. BANCR overexpression enhanced proliferation, migration and invasion of ESCC cells, and BANCR silencing exerted opposite effects. Moreover, BANCR overexpression induced activation of the Raf/MEK/ERK signaling pathway in ESCC cells. Notably, U0126, a specific MEK inhibitor, decreased MEK and ERK expression, and blocked the promotive effects of BANCR overexpression on the proliferation, migration and invasion of ESCC cells. Overall, lncRNA BANCR facilitated the proliferation, migration and invasion of ESCC cells via the Raf/MEK/ERK signaling pathway. Thus, lncRNA BANCR may be a promising target for inhibiting ESCC growth and metastasis.

Downregulating Long Non-coding RNAs CTBP1-AS2 Inhibits Colorectal Cancer Development by Modulating the miR-93-5p/TGF-β/SMAD2/3 Pathway

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC), the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the world, has a high mortality rate. In recent decades, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been proven to exert an important effect on CRC growth. However, the CTBP1-AS2 expression and function in CRC are largely unknown.

Materials and Methods: The CTBP1-AS2 and miR-93-5p expression in CRC and para-cancerous tissues was detected by reverse transcription-PCR. The expression of CTBP1-AS2, miR-93-5p and the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β)/small mothers against decapentaplegic 2/3 (SMAD2/3) pathway was selectively regulated to study the correlation between CTBP1-AS2 expression and prognosis of patients with CRC. CRC cell proliferation, apoptosis, and invasion were measured in vivo and in vitro. In addition, bioinformatics was applied to explore the targeting relationship between CTBP1-AS2 and miR-93-5p. The targeting binding sites between CTBP1-AS2 and miR-93-5p, as well as between miR-93-5p and TGF-β, were verified by the dual-luciferase reporter assay and the RNA immunoprecipitation experiment.

Results: Compared with normal para-cancerous tissues, CTBP1-AS2 was considerably overexpressed in CRC tissues and was closely associated with worse survival of patients with CRC. Functionally, gain and loss in experiments illustrated that CTBP1-AS2 accelerated CRC cell proliferation and invasion and inhibited cell apoptosis. Mechanistically, CTBP1-AS2 regulated the malignant phenotype of tumor cells through the TGF-β/SMAD2/3 pathway. Moreover, miR-93-5p, as an endogenous competitive RNA of CTBP1-AS2, attenuated the oncogenic effects mediated by CTBP1-AS2.

Conclusion: CTBP1-AS2 promotes the TGF-β/SMAD2/3 pathway activation by inhibiting miR-93-5p, thereby accelerating CRC development.

LncRNA signature in colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is among the most frequent cancers and is associated with high mortality particularly when being diagnosed in advanced stages. Although several environmental and intrinsic risk factors have been identified, the underlying cause of CRC is not clear in the majority of cases. Several studies especially in the recent decade have pointed to the role of epigenetic factors in this kind of cancer. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) as important contributors in the epigenetic mechanisms are involved in the initiation, progression and metastasis of CRC. Tens of oncogenic lncRNAs and a lower number of tumor suppressor lncRNAs have been recently identified to be dysregulated in CRC cells and tissues. Notably, expressions of a number of these transcripts have been dysregulated in serum samples of CRC patients, providing a non-invasive route for detection of this kind of cancer. The involvement of lncRNAs in the regulation of autophagy has provided them the ability to modulate response of CRC cells to chemotherapeutic modalities. In the current manuscript, we review the studies which evaluated the role of lncRNAs in the pathogenesis and progression of CRC to appraise their application as diagnostic/ prognostic markers.

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

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

The lncRNA DLGAP1-AS1/miR-149-5p/TGFB2 axis contributes to colorectal cancer progression and 5-FU resistance by regulating smad2 pathway

Colorectal carcinoma (CRC) ranks as the third most common malignancy. Long non-coding RNA DLGAP1-AS1 was reported to be dysregulated and to play a pivotal role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This work aims to analyze the functions and molecular basis of DLGAP1-AS1 in CRC progression and 5-fluorouracil resistance. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, Transwell assay, flow cytometry, and western blot were utilized to measure the CRC cell activity, invasiveness, and apoptosis. RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and dual-luciferase reporter gene assay were adopted to verify the direct mutual action between DLGAP1-AS1 and miR-149-5p. The effect of DLGAP1-AS1 knockdown on tumor growth and chemosensitivity of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) were investigated in the mouse CRC xenograft models. Functional assays showed that silencing DLGAP1-AS1 expression remarkably inhibited cell proliferation and aggressiveness ability and enhanced apoptosis rate and cell chemosensitivity to 5-FU. In addition, miR-149-5p was identified as a tumor suppressor and a direct downstream target of DLGAP1-AS1 in CRC. Furthermore, miR-149-5p was confirmed to directly bind to TGFB2 and DLGAP1-AS1 could regulate the expression of TGFB2 signaling pathway via miR-149-5p in CRC. These new findings indicate that DLGAP1-AS1 knockdown inhibited the progression of CRC and enhanced the 5-FU sensitivity of CRC cells through miR-149-5p/TGFB2 regulatory axis, suggesting that DLGAP1-AS1 may be a promising therapeutic target for CRC.

LncRNA BANCR Attenuates the Killing Capacity of Cisplatin on Gastric Cancer Cell Through the ERK1/2 Pathway

Purpose

Chemotherapy-based comprehensive treatments are the most important therapeutic methods for patients with advanced gastric cancer, but chemoresistance often cause treatment failure. Long non-coding RNA (LncRNA) BRAF-activated non-coding RNA (BANCR) has been shown to participate in many biological behaviors of multiple cancers. However, the biological roles of LncRNA BANCR in chemoresistance of gastric cancer remain unclear. Here, we aimed to evaluate the functions of LncRNA BANCR on the therapy of gastric cancer.

Methods

In this study, LncRNA BANCR expression was detected in gastric cancer patient samples and cell lines by quantity polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Cell proliferation and viability in cisplatin-treated cells were measured using clonogenic survival assay and cell counting kit-8. The levels of ERK1/2 pathway molecules were tested with Western blot. Ly3214996, an inhibitor of ERK signal pathway, was administered to assess the effects of BANCR overexpression on gastric cancer cell with cisplatin-treated resistance. Moreover, the role of BANCR in cisplatin resistance of gastric cancer was validated in xenograft mouse models in vivo.

Results

Our study revealed that LncRNA BANCR expression was also significantly increased in gastric cancer tissues compared with adjacent normal tissues. Furthermore, we found that BANCR overexpression promoted gastric cancer cell resistance to cisplatin in vitro. Ly3214996 treatment abolished the BANCR overexpression-mediated gastric cancer cell cisplatin resistance via regulating the phosphorylation of ERK protein. Knock-down of BANCR significantly delayed tumor growth in xenograft mouse models.

Conclusion

BANCR promoted cisplatin resistance of gastric cancer cells by activating ERK1/2 pathway. Inhibition of BANCR markedly suppressed the growth of gastric cancer cells in vitro as well as in vivo. These results provided a new strategy for gastric cancer therapy via targeting BANCR.

Long Noncoding RNA PCAT18 Upregulates SPRR3 to Promote Colorectal Cancer Progression by Binding to miR-759

Background

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play essential functions in the development of several cancers, including colorectal cancer (CRC). Nevertheless, how PCAT18 regulates CRC tumorigenesis remains unclear. In this research, we aimed to investigate the roles of PCAT18 in CRC.

Materials and Methods

qRT-PCR and Western blot were used to analyze RNA and protein levels. CCK8, colony formation, transwell and wound healing assays were utilized to analyze proliferation, migration and invasion. Luciferase reporter assay was used to analyze RNA interactions.

Results

PCAT18 was found to be highly expressed in CRC tissues and cells. PCAT18 level was positively correlated with lymph node metastasis and TNM stage. Functionally, PCAT18 silencing induced impairment of CRC proliferation, migration and invasion. Besides, PCAT18 was identified to inhibit miR-759. PCAT18 promotes SPRR3 expression through binding to miR-759. Furthermore, miR-759 inhibitors or SPRR3 ectopic expression partially rescued the abilities of proliferation, migration and invasion in CRC cells transfected with sh-PCAT18.

Conclusion

Therefore, our study demonstrated that PCAT18 contributes to CRC progression through regulating miR-759/SPRR3 axis, which provides a new theoretical basis of explaining CRC tumorigenesis.

Mechanisms of long non-coding RNA function in colorectal cancer tumorigenesis

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers globally. Although a variety of CRC screening methods have been developed, many patients are diagnosed at advanced stages of CRC with tumor invasion and distance metastasis. Several studies have suggested the long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) as one of the main contributors in CRC tumorigenesis, although the exact underlying mechanism of lncRNAs in CRC is still unknown. Numerous studies have indicated aberrant expression of lncRNAs in CRC through different modes of action such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle, DNA repair response, drug-resistance, migration, and metastasis. Furthermore, lncRNA polymorphisms can influence the risk of CRC development. Accordingly, lncRNAs can be served as promising diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers and also desired therapeutic targets affecting the outcome of patients with CRC. In this review, we summarized the updated and novel evidence that identifies different roles of lncRNAs in the tumorigenesis of CRC.

Progress of long noncoding RNAs in anti-tumor resistance

The resistance of cancer cells to anti-cancer drugs is an important reason for the failure of treatment. Overcoming drug resistance can achieve long-lasting and efficient cancer treatment. Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) is a class of RNA molecules that does not encode protein and has more than 200 nucleotides. LncRNA not only has a regulatory role in the occurrence and development of malignant tumors, but also has been found to have a potential impact on anti-tumor resistance. Abnormal expression of lncRNA can cause tumor cells to develop resistance to anti-tumor drugs. This article reviews the recent research progress of lncRNA in various tumor resistances and the mechanism of lncRNA acting on tumor drug resistance.

High BANCR expression is associated with worse prognosis in human malignant carcinomas: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

BRAF-activated noncoding RNA (BANCR) is aberrantly expressed in various tumor tissues and has been confirmed to function as a tumor suppressor or oncogene in many types of cancers. Considering the conflicting results and insufficient sampling, a meta-analysis was performed to explore the prognostic value of BANCR in various carcinomas.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) was conducted to collect relevant articles.

Results

The pooled results showed a strong relationship between high BANCR expression and poor overall survival (OS) (HR (hazard ratio) =1.60, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.19–2.15, P = 0.002) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) (HR = 1.53, 95% CI: 1.27–1.85, P < 0.00001). In addition, high BANCR expression predicted advanced tumor stage (OR (odds ratio) =2.39, 95% CI: 1.26–4.53, P = 0.008), presence of lymph node metastasis (OR = 2.03, 95% CI: 1.08–3.83, P = 0.03), positive distant metastasis (OR = 3.08, 95% CI: 1.92–4.96, P < 0.00001) and larger tumor sizes (OR = 1.63, 95% CI: 1.09–2.46, P = 0.02). However, no associations were found for smoking status (OR = 1.01, 95% CI: 0.65–1.56, P = 0.98), age (OR = 0.88, 95% CI: 0.71–1.09, P = 0.236) and sex (OR = 0.91, 95% CI: 0.72–1.16, P = 0.469). The sensitivity analysis of OS showed that the results of each publication were almost consistent with the combined results, and the merged results have high robustness and reliability.

Conclusions

The results showed that elevated BANCR expression was associated with unfavorable prognosis for most cancer patients, and BANCR could serve as a promising therapeutic target and independent prognostic predictor in most of cancer types.

Integration analysis of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) role in tumorigenesis of colon adenocarcinoma

Background

Colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) is one of the most common gastrointestinal cancers globally. Molecular aberrations of tumor suppressors and/or oncogenes are the main contributors to tumorigenesis. However, the exact underlying mechanisms of COAD pathogenesis are clearly not known yet. In this regard, there is an urgent need to indicate promising potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in COAD patients.

Methods

In the current study, level 3 RNA-Seq and miR-Seq data and corresponding clinical data of colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) were retrieved from the TCGA database. The “limma” package in R software was utilized to indicate the differentially expressed genes. For in silico functional analysis, GO and KEGG signaling pathways were conducted. PPI network was constructed based on the STRING online database by Cytoscape 3.7.2. A ceRNA network was also constructed by “GDCRNATools” package in R software. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis (log-rank test) and ROC curve analysis were used to indicate the diagnostic and prognostic values of the biomarkers.

Results

The differential expression data demonstrated that 2995 mRNAs, 205 lncRNAs, and 345 miRNAs were differentially expressed in COAD. The GO and KEGG pathway analysis indicated that the differentially expressed mRNAs were primarily enriched in canonical processes in cancer. The PPI network showed that the CDKN2A, CCND1, MYC, E2F, CDK4, BRCA2, CDC25B, and CDKN1A proteins were the critical hubs. In addition, the Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that 215 mRNAs, 14 lncRNAs, and 39 miRNAs were associated with overall survival time in the patients. Also, the ceRNA network data demonstrated that three lncRNAs including MIR17HG, H19, SNHG1, KCNQ1OT1, MALAT1, GAS5, SNHG20, OR2A1-AS1, and MAGI2-AS3 genes were involved in the development of COAD.

Conclusions

Our data suggested several promising lncRNAs in the diagnosis and prognosis of patients with COAD.

CTCF promotes colorectal cancer cell proliferation and chemotherapy resistance to 5-FU via the P53-Hedgehog axis

CTCF is overexpressed in several cancers and plays crucial roles in regulating aggressiveness, but little is known about whether CTCF drives colorectal cancer progression. Here, we identified a tumor-promoting role for CTCF in colorectal cancer. Our study demonstrated that CTCF was upregulated in colorectal cancer specimens compared with adjacent noncancerous colorectal tissues. The overexpression of CTCF promoted colorectal cancer cell proliferation and tumor growth, while the opposite effects were observed in CTCF knockdown cells. Increased GLI1, Shh, PTCH1, and PTCH2 levels were observed in CTCF-overexpressing cells using western blot analyses. CCK-8 and apoptosis assays revealed that 5-fluorouracil chemosensitivity was negatively associated with CTCF expression. Furthermore, we identified that P53 is a direct transcriptional target gene of CTCF in colorectal cancer. Western blot and nuclear extract assays showed that inhibition of P53 can counteract Hedgehog signaling pathway repression induced by CTCF knockdown. In conclusion, we uncovered a crucial role for CTCF regulation that possibly involves the P53-Hedgehog axis and highlighted the clinical utility of colorectal cancer-specific potential therapeutic target as disease progression or clinical response biomarkers.

The Role of Long Non-Coding RNAs in Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer, the most common endocrine malignancy, has become the most commonly diagnosed malignant solid tumor. Moreover, some cases have poor prognosis, and the survival period is only 3-5 months. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a group of functional RNA molecules more than 200 nucleotides in length that lack the ability to encode protein but participate in all aspects of gene regulation. Functionally, many lncRNAs play essential roles in epigenetic regulation at transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels via various molecular mechanisms. Recent studies have discovered important roles for lncRNAs during the complex process of carcinogenesis in thyroid cancer. In this review, we focus on lncRNAs dysregulated in thyroid cancer and summarize recently reported associations between lncRNAs and thyroid cancer in order to demonstrate the significant value of lncRNAs in diagnosis and treatment.

Translation regulatory long non-coding RNA 1 represents a potential prognostic biomarker for colorectal cancer

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have attracted a lot of attention for their role in the development, progression and prognosis of colorectal cancer (CRC). However, little is known on the clinical significance of the translation regulatory lncRNA 1 (TRERNA1) in CRC. The present study aimed to explore the clinical value of TRERNA1 in patients with CRC. A total of 89 cancer-associated lncRNA genes were analyzed using the RT² lncRNA PCR array Human Cancer PathwayFinder. Following the PCR array, reverse transcription-quantitative (RT-q)PCR was conducted to identify the differential expression of TRERNA1 between 130 CRC and corresponding non-tumorous adjacent tissues. Additionally, the association between TRERNA1 expression and clinical characteristics was analyzed. Furthermore, TRERNA1 expression was knocked down via small interfering RNAs. The results of the PCR array and RT-qPCR revealed that TRERNA1 expression was significantly upregulated in CRC tissues compared with in adjacent normal tissues. TRERNA1 upregulation was positively associated with distant metastasis, perineural invasion, TNM stage, node metastasis stage and tumor diameter. Multivariate analysis revealed that patients with higher TRERNA1 expression had a shorter overall survival (OS) time and a less favorable prognosis compared with those in the low TRERNA1 expression group. Knockdown of TRERNA1 inhibited invasion and metastasis of CRC cells via regulating Snail expression. In conclusion, TRERNA1 expression was upregulated in CRC tissues. High expression levels of TRERNA1 may be associated with poor OS times, a less favorable prognosis and lymph node metastasis in patients with CRC. TRERNA1 may therefore serve as a useful and novel biomarker for CRC lymph node metastasis and prognosis.

Cellular apoptosis susceptibility protein (CAS) suppresses the proliferation of breast cancer cells by upregulated cyp24a1

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. Although several studies demonstrated cellular apoptosis susceptibility protein (CAS) involved in the development of breast cancer, the underlying mechanisms of CAS regulating cell processes in the breast cancer remain elusive. In the present study, we explored the possible mechanism of CAS in contributing to the cell proliferation in the breast cancer cell line MCF-7. Knockdown of CAS led to the reduction of cell viability and proliferation. Furthermore, cell cycle was arrested in G0/G1 phase after knocking down CAS with the decrease of cyclinD1. In addition, RNA-seq analysis for the CAS knockdown cells demonstrated that total eleven genes were significantly altered (Fold changes > 2). Of note, the expression of cyp24a1 was dramatically increased in the shCAS cells compared to that of shNC cells as well as confirmed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). These observations clarified the previous conflicting results on the cell fates of the breast cells regulated by CAS and provide new insight into the role of CAS in the development of breast cancer.

Long non-coding RNA PVT1 contributes to cell growth and metastasis in non-small-cell lung cancer by regulating miR-361-3p/SOX9 axis and activating Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway

Lung cancer is the most frequent cause of cancer-related mortality in men, and 85 % of lung cancer is diagnosed as non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Plasmacytoma variant translocation1 (PVT1) serves as an oncogenic factor in NSCLC. However, the pathogenesis of PVT1 in NSCLC is still vague. The expression levels of PVT1, sex determining region Y (SRY)-related high mobility group (HMG)-box9 (SOX9), and microRNA (miR)-361-3p in NSCLC tissues and cells were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The protein levels of SOX9, β-catenin, and c-Myc were detected by western blot assay. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion were measured by 3-(4, 5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2, 5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT), flow cytometry, transwell assays, severally. The interaction between miR-361-3p and PVT1 or SOX9was predicted by starBase, and then verified by the dual-luciferase reporter and RNA Immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays. PVT1 and SOX9 was highly expressed in NSCLC tumor tissues and cells. PVT1 facilitated proliferation, migration, invasion and hindered apoptosis of NSCLC cells. MiR-361-3p was a target of PVT1 in NSCLC cells. SOX9 acted as a target of miR-361-3p. PVT1 worked as a miR-361-3p sponge to regulate SOX9 expression. PVT1 modulate the Wnt/β-catenin Signaling Pathway by miR-361-3p/SOX9 axis. Our studies disclosed that PVT1 boosted proliferation, migration, invasion and curbed apoptosis by miR-361-3p/SOX9 axis, providing the possible therapeutic strategy for NSCLC.

LINC02595 promotes tumor progression in colorectal cancer by inhibiting miR-203b-3p activity and facilitating BCL2L1 expression

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most prevalent tumors worldwide. Recently, long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been recognized as key regulators in postgenomic biology. Numerous lncRNAs have been identified as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the role of lncRNAs in CRC progression are not fully understood. Differentially expressed lncRNAs and messenger RNAs were investigated using a microarray approach in five paired primary CRC tumor tissues and the corresponding nontumor tissues and confirmed in an additional 116 paired tissues and 21 inflammatory bowel disease tissues and 15 adjacent normal tissues by a quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. We also performed comprehensive transcriptome profiling analysis on Gene Expression Omnibus and The Cancer Genome Atlas datasets. We identified LINC02595 and evaluated its clinical significance as a plasma biomarker. The function of LINC02595 was evaluated using a panel of in vivo and vitro assays, including cell counting kit‐8, colony formation, cell cycle, apoptosis, RNA fluorescence in situ hybridization, luciferase reporter, immunohistochemistry, and CRC xenografts. We found that LINC02595 is upregulated in tumor tissues and blood samples of patients with CRC and CRC cell lines. Functional research found that LINC02595 promotes CRC cell growth, influences the cell cycle, and reduces apoptosis in vitro and vivo. Mechanistically, LINC02595 promoted BCL2‐like 1 (BCL2L1) expression through miR‐203b‐3p sponging. Our research demonstrated that LINC02595 is an oncogene in CRC and established the presence of a LINC02595‐miR‐203b‐BCL2L1 axis in CRC, which might provide a new diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic targets for the treatment of this disease.

Emerging Roles of lncRNAs in the Formation and Progression of Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the primary cause of cancer-related death worldwide; however, specific and sensitive tools for the early diagnosis and targeted therapy of CRC are currently lacking. High-throughput sequencing technology revealed that gene expression of long-chain non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in a number of cancers directly or indirectly interferes with various biological processes. Emerging evidence suggests that lncRNAs regulate target genes and play an important role in the biological processes of malignancies, including CRC. Many carcinostatic/oncogenic lncRNAs have been identified as biomarkers for metastasis and prognosis in CRC; hence, they serve as therapeutic tools. In this article, we systematically review the literature on the disordered lncRNAs in CRC from four aspects: DNA transcription, RNA level regulation, post-translational level, and the translation of lncRNAs into polypeptides. Subsequently, we analyze the mechanism through which lncRNAs participate in the biological process of CRC. Finally, we discuss the application and prospects of these lncRNAs in CRC.

Comprehensive analysis of differentially expressed lncRNAs as diagnostic and prognostic markers for colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common type of cancer worldwide. Recent studies had revealed the important roles of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in a variety of human cancers, including CRC. However, the molecular mechanisms associated with CRC remain largely undetermined. In the current study, the GSE21510 dataset was analyzed to identify differentially expressed mRNAs and lncRNAs in CRC samples. The Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery was used to perform Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway bioinformatics analysis. Furthermore, protein-protein interaction networks were constructed to reveal interactions among differentially expressed proteins. Kaplan-Meier analysis was subsequently performed to determine the association between key lncRNA expression and the overall survival of patients with CRC. A total of 107 upregulated lncRNAs and 43 downregulated lncRNAs were identified in CRC. A lncRNA mediated co-expression network was also constructed in CRC. Bioinformatics analysis indicated that lncRNAs were associated with a series of biological processes, including 'xenobiotic glucuronidation', 'rRNA processing', 'sister chromatid cohesion', 'cell proliferation', 'mitotic nuclear division' and 'cell cycle regulation'. Furthermore, a higher expression of small nucleolar RNA host gene 17, tetratricopeptide repeat domain 2B-antisense RNA (AS) 1, erythrocyte membrane protein band 4.1 like 4A-AS2, deleted in lymphocytic leukemia 2, and a lower expression of muscle blind like splicing regulator 1-AS1 and LOC389332 were associated with shorter overall survival time in CRC samples. The present study provides useful information that can be used in the identification of novel biomarkers for CRC.

Identification of a six-gene signature predicting overall survival for hepatocellular carcinoma

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a major challenge for public health worldwide. Considering the great heterogeneity of HCC, more accurate prognostic models are urgently needed. To identify a robust prognostic gene signature, we conduct this study.

Materials and methods

Level 3 mRNA expression profiles and clinicopathological data were obtained in The Cancer Genome Atlas Liver Hepatocellular Carcinoma (TCGA-LIHC). GSE14520 dataset from the gene expression omnibus (GEO) database was downloaded to further validate the results in TCGA. Differentially expressed mRNAs between HCC and normal tissue were investigated. Univariate Cox regression analysis and lasso Cox regression model were performed to identify and construct the prognostic gene signature. Time-dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC), Kaplan–Meier curve, multivariate Cox regression analysis, nomogram, and decision curve analysis (DCA) were used to assess the prognostic capacity of the six-gene signature. The prognostic value of the gene signature was further validated in independent GSE14520 cohort. Gene Set Enrichment Analyses (GSEA) was performed to further understand the underlying molecular mechanisms. The performance of the prognostic signature in differentiating between normal liver tissues and HCC were also investigated.

Results

A novel six-gene signature (including CSE1L, CSTB, MTHFR, DAGLA, MMP10, and GYS2) was established for HCC prognosis prediction. The ROC curve showed good performance in survival prediction in both the TCGA HCC cohort and the GSE14520 validation cohort. The six-gene signature could stratify patients into a high- and low-risk group which had significantly different survival. Cox regression analysis showed that the six-gene signature could independently predict OS. Nomogram including the six-gene signature was established and shown some clinical net benefit. Furthermore, GSEA revealed several significantly enriched oncological signatures and various metabolic process, which might help explain the underlying molecular mechanisms. Besides, the prognostic signature showed a strong ability for differentiating HCC from normal tissues.

Conclusions

Our study established a novel six-gene signature and nomogram to predict overall survival of HCC, which may help in clinical decision making for individual treatment.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12935-019-0858-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.