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Hashemi M, Daneii P, Asadalizadeh M, Tabari K, Matinahmadi A, Bidoki SS, Motlagh YSM, Jafari AM, Ghorbani A, Dehghanpour A, Nabavi N, Tan SC, Rashidi M, Taheriazam A, Entezari M, Goharrizi MASB. Epigenetic regulation of hepatocellular carcinoma progression: MicroRNAs as therapeutic, diagnostic and prognostic factors. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2024; 170:106566. [PMID: 38513802 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2024.106566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a significant challenge for public healthcare systems in developed Western countries including the USA, Canada, and the UK, is influenced by different risk factors including hepatitis virus infections, alcoholism, and smoking. The disruption in the balance of microRNAs (miRNAs) plays a vital function in tumorigenesis, given their function as regulators in numerous signaling networks. These miRNAs, which are mature and active in the cytoplasm, work by reducing the expression of target genes through their impact on mRNAs. MiRNAs are particularly significant in HCC as they regulate key aspects of the tumor, like proliferation and invasion. Additionally, during treatment phases such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, the levels of miRNAs are key determinants. Pre-clinical experiments have demonstrated that altered miRNA expression contributes to HCC development, metastasis, drug resistance, and radio-resistance, highlighting related molecular pathways and processes like MMPs, EMT, apoptosis, and autophagy. Furthermore, the regulatory role of miRNAs in HCC extends beyond their immediate function, as they are also influenced by other epigenetic factors like lncRNAs and circular RNAs (circRNAs), as discussed in recent reviews. Applying these discoveries in predicting the prognosis of HCC could mark a significant advancement in the therapy of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Hashemi
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pouria Daneii
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahya Asadalizadeh
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kiana Tabari
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arash Matinahmadi
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Torun, Poland
| | - Seyed Shahabadin Bidoki
- Faculty of medicine, School of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | | | - Ali Moghadas Jafari
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amin Ghorbani
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Dehghanpour
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Noushin Nabavi
- Department of Urologic Sciences and Vancouver Prostate Centre, University of British Columbia, V6H3Z6, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Shing Cheng Tan
- UKM Medical Molecular Biology Institute, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohsen Rashidi
- Department Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran; The Health of Plant and Livestock Products Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
| | - Afshin Taheriazam
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Orthopedics, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Maliheh Entezari
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
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Abdullah ST, Abdullah SR, Hussen BM, Younis YM, Rasul MF, Taheri M. Role of circular RNAs and gut microbiome in gastrointestinal cancers and therapeutic targets. Noncoding RNA Res 2024; 9:236-252. [PMID: 38192436 PMCID: PMC10771991 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2023.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal cancers are a huge worldwide health concern, which includes a wide variety of digestive tract cancers. Circular RNAs (circRNAs), a kind of non-coding RNA (ncRNAs), are a family of single-stranded, covalently closed RNAs that have become recognized as crucial gene expression regulators, having an impact on several cellular functions in cancer biology. The gut microbiome, which consists of several different bacteria, actively contributes to the regulation of host immunity, inflammation, and metabolism. CircRNAs and the gut microbiome interact significantly to greatly affect the growth of GI cancer. Several studies focus on the complex functions of circRNAs and the gut microbiota in GI cancers, including esophageal cancer, colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, hepatocellular cancer, and pancreatic cancer. It also emphasizes how changed circRNA expression profiles and gut microbiota affect pathways connected to malignancy as well as how circRNAs affect hallmarks of gastrointestinal cancers. Furthermore, circRNAs and gut microbiota have been recommended as biological markers for therapeutic targets as well as diagnostic and prognostic purposes. Targeting circRNAs and the gut microbiota for the treatment of gastrointestinal cancers is also being continued to study. Despite significant initiatives, the connection between circRNAs and the gut microbiota and the emergence of gastrointestinal cancers remains poorly understood. In this study, we will go over the most recent studies to emphasize the key roles of circRNAs and gut microbiota in gastrointestinal cancer progression and therapeutic options. In order to create effective therapies and plan for the future gastrointestinal therapy, it is important to comprehend the functions and mechanisms of circRNAs and the gut microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Tharwat Abdullah
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Snur Rasool Abdullah
- Medical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences, Lebanese French University, Kurdistan Region, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Bashdar Mahmud Hussen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Science, Cihan University-Erbil, Kurdistan Region, 44001, Iraq
- Department of Clinical Analysis, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Kurdistan Region, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Yousif Mohammed Younis
- Department of Nursing, College of Nursing, Lebanese French University, Kurdistan Region, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Mohammed Fatih Rasul
- Department of Pharmaceutical Basic Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tishk International University, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
| | - Mohammad Taheri
- Institute of Human Genetics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
- Urology and Nephrology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Liu M, Guo B, Zhang G, Qi H. Circ_0091579 Knockdown Inhibited HCC Proliferation and Glutamine Metabolism Through miR-1270/YAP1 Axis. Biochem Genet 2024; 62:208-228. [PMID: 37314551 DOI: 10.1007/s10528-023-10386-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
A growing number of studies have indicated that circRNAs play an important role in the progression of malignant tumors, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this study, we designed to explore the abnormal expression of hsa_circ_0091579 (circ_0091579) and its role in the pathogenesis of HCC. In this study, the mRNA levels of circ_0091579, miR-1270, and Yes-associated protein (YAP1) were assessed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). RNase R and Actinomycin D were used to test the stability of circ_0091579. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) was used to measure cell viability. Tubule formation assay was used to determine the effect of HCC cells on the number of tubes. Cell apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry. Western blot was used for the protein levels. Transwell and wound healing tests were used to measure the abilities of invasion and migration. The effect of circ_0091579 knockdown on tumor growth was verified in vivo by xenograft tumor assay and Immunohistochemistry (IHC) analysis. Dual-luciferase reporter or RIP assay was used to detect the relationship between miR-1270 and circ_0091579 or YAP1. Glutamine metabolism was determined by ELISA and western blot assays. In the present study, we found that circ_0091579 was upregulated in HCC tissues and cells. Inhibited circ_0091579 expression significantly suppressed proliferation and promoted apoptosis of HCC cells. Moreover, circ_0091579 knockdown inhibited tumor growth in vivo. Bioinformatic prediction and luciferase assay showed that circ_0091579 acted as a molecular sponge for miR-1270 and YAP1 was a target gene of miR-1270. MiR-1270 silencing could reverse the inhibitory effect of circ_0091579 knockdown on HCC progression, and YAP1 overexpression also could reverse the suppressive effect of circ_0091579 silencing on HCC progression. Meanwhile, miR-1270 inhibitor could invert the negative regulation effect of circ_0091579 silencing on YAP1 expression. Circ_0091579 promoted HCC progression by regulating the miR-1270/YAP1 axis, and our study might offer novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Liu
- Department of Radiotherapy, Taian City Central Hospital, No. 29, Longtan Road, Taishan District, Tai'an, Shandong, China
| | - Bing Guo
- Department of Radiotherapy, Taian City Central Hospital, No. 29, Longtan Road, Taishan District, Tai'an, Shandong, China
| | - Ge Zhang
- Department of Radiotherapy, Taian City Central Hospital, No. 29, Longtan Road, Taishan District, Tai'an, Shandong, China
| | - Huanpeng Qi
- Department of Radiotherapy, Taian City Central Hospital, No. 29, Longtan Road, Taishan District, Tai'an, Shandong, China.
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Liao Q, Xia W, Chen J, Wang K, Xiao E. Circular RNA DNAH14 molecular mechanism in an experimental model of hepatocellular carcinoma treated with Cobalt chloride to mimic the hypoxia-like response of transcatheter arterial chemoembolization. Sci Rep 2024; 14:1992. [PMID: 38263208 PMCID: PMC10805718 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-52578-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) is the primary local treatment for patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Numerous studies have demonstrated the pivotal role of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in TACE efficacy. This study aimed to investigate the function of circular RNA DNAH14 (circDNAH14) in TACE for HCC and to elucidate its molecular mechanisms. To simulate hypoxia conditions experienced during TACE, HCC cells were treated with cobalt chloride. The expression levels of circDNAH14, microRNA-508-3p (miR-508-3p), and Prothymosin Alpha (PTMA) were modulated via transfection for knockdown or overexpression. Cell Counting Kit-8 and 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine assays, flow cytometry, and Transwell assays, along with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) evaluations, were employed to assess cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, migration, and EMT. The results indicated that hypoxia treatment downregulated the expression of circDNAH14 and PTMA while upregulating miR-508-3p. Such treatment suppressed HCC cell proliferation, invasion, migration, and EMT, and induced apoptosis. Knockdown of circDNAH14 or PTMA intensified the suppressive effects of hypoxia on the malignant behaviors of HCC cells. Conversely, upregulation of miR-508-3p or PTMA mitigated the effects of circDNAH14 overexpression and knockdown, respectively. Mechanistically, circDNAH14 was found to competitively bind to miR-508-3p, thereby regulating PTMA expression. In vivo, nude mouse xenograft experiments demonstrated that circDNAH14 knockdown augmented the hypoxia-induced suppression of HCC tumor growth. In conclusion, circDNAH14 mitigates the suppressive effects of hypoxia on HCC, both in vitro and in vivo, by competitively binding to miR-508-3p and regulating PTMA expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuling Liao
- Department of Radiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, No. 139, Renmin Middle Road, Changsha City, 410011, Hunan Province, China
| | - Weiping Xia
- Department of Urology Surgery, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, No. 87 Xiangya Road, Kaifu District, Changsha City, 410008, Hunan Province, China
| | - Jiawen Chen
- Department of Urology Surgery, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, No. 87 Xiangya Road, Kaifu District, Changsha City, 410008, Hunan Province, China
| | - Kangning Wang
- Department of Urology Surgery, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, No. 87 Xiangya Road, Kaifu District, Changsha City, 410008, Hunan Province, China.
| | - Enhua Xiao
- Department of Radiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, No. 139, Renmin Middle Road, Changsha City, 410011, Hunan Province, China.
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Ding Y, Zhang M, Hu S, Zhang C, Zhou Y, Han M, Li J, Li F, Ni H, Fang S, Chen Q. MiRNA-766-3p inhibits gastric cancer via targeting COL1A1 and regulating PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. J Cancer 2024; 15:990-998. [PMID: 38230216 PMCID: PMC10788715 DOI: 10.7150/jca.90321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective MiRNA-766-3p has been shown to be associated with a variety of cancers. However, few studies have been done in gastric cancer (GC). This study explores the mechanism of miR-766-3p in GC. Methods The potential targets of microRNA (miRNA) were predicted using Tarbase and Targetscan databases. The results are intersected with differential genes (DEGs) (fold change > 1.5, P < 0.05) in gastric cancer to obtain potential core targets. The hub targets screened by constructing PPI networks (degree > 5, expression > 0.5). Validating the differential expression and expression in immunohistochemistry of these targets through the database. And the binding sites between miRNAs and mRNAs were verified using dual-luciferase Assay. Finally, qRT-PCR and Western Blot experiments were conducted to validate the hub targets and signal pathways. Results The potential hub targets from the PPI network were THBS2, COL1A1, FGG, FGB, and PLAU. Combining database, luciferase Assay and experimental validation, miR-766-3p can sponge COL1A1 and it plays the most important role in gastric cancer progression. In GC, COL1A1 was upregulated and the enrichment analysis revealed that COL1A1 regulates PI3K/AKT signal pathway, and AKT is also highly expressed in gastric cancer. Conclusion The miR-766-3p can inhibit the progression of gastric cancer by targeting COL1A1 and regulating the PI3K/AKT signal pathway. It could be a potential therapy option for the GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Ding
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Mengyuan Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200437, China
| | - Sheng Hu
- Central Laboratory, Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200443, China
| | - Caiyun Zhang
- Central Laboratory, Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200443, China
| | - Yue Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200437, China
| | - Ming Han
- Department of Gastroenterology, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200437, China
| | - Jingjing Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200437, China
| | - Fulong Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200437, China
| | - Hongmei Ni
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Shengquan Fang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200437, China
| | - Qilong Chen
- Central Laboratory, Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200443, China
- Shanghai Institute of Stem Cell Research and Clinical Translation, Shanghai 200120, China
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Abaza T, El-Aziz MKA, Daniel KA, Karousi P, Papatsirou M, Fahmy SA, Hamdy NM, Kontos CK, Youness RA. Emerging Role of Circular RNAs in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Immunotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16484. [PMID: 38003674 PMCID: PMC10671287 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly fatal malignancy with limited therapeutic options and high recurrence rates. Recently, immunotherapeutic agents such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have emerged as a new paradigm shift in oncology. ICIs, such as programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) inhibitors, have provided a new source of hope for patients with advanced HCC. Yet, the eligibility criteria of HCC patients for ICIs are still a missing piece in the puzzle. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have recently emerged as a new class of non-coding RNAs that play a fundamental role in cancer pathogenesis. Structurally, circRNAs are resistant to exonucleolytic degradation and have a longer half-life than their linear counterparts. Functionally, circRNAs possess the capability to influence various facets of the tumor microenvironment, especially at the HCC tumor-immune synapse. Notably, circRNAs have been observed to control the expression of immune checkpoint molecules within tumor cells, potentially impeding the therapeutic effectiveness of ICIs. Therefore, this renders them potential cancer-immune biomarkers for diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic regimen determinants. In this review, the authors shed light on the structure and functional roles of circRNAs and, most importantly, highlight the promising roles of circRNAs in HCC immunomodulation and their potential as promising biomarkers and immunotherapeutic regimen determinants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tasneem Abaza
- Biology and Biochemistry Department, Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), Cairo 11835, Egypt; (T.A.); (M.K.A.E.-A.); (K.A.D.)
- Biotechnology and Biomolecular Chemistry Program, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
| | - Mostafa K. Abd El-Aziz
- Biology and Biochemistry Department, Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), Cairo 11835, Egypt; (T.A.); (M.K.A.E.-A.); (K.A.D.)
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut Branch, Assiut 71631, Egypt
| | - Kerolos Ashraf Daniel
- Biology and Biochemistry Department, Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), Cairo 11835, Egypt; (T.A.); (M.K.A.E.-A.); (K.A.D.)
- Biology and Biochemistry Department, Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire Hosted by Global Academic Foundation, Cairo 11835, Egypt
| | - Paraskevi Karousi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15701 Athens, Greece; (P.K.); (M.P.)
| | - Maria Papatsirou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15701 Athens, Greece; (P.K.); (M.P.)
| | - Sherif Ashraf Fahmy
- Department of Chemistry, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire Hosted by Global Academic Foundation, R5 New Garden City, New Capital, Cairo 11835, Egypt;
| | - Nadia M. Hamdy
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt;
| | - Christos K. Kontos
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15701 Athens, Greece; (P.K.); (M.P.)
| | - Rana A. Youness
- Biology and Biochemistry Department, Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), Cairo 11835, Egypt; (T.A.); (M.K.A.E.-A.); (K.A.D.)
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Yang X, Tian X, Zhao P, Wang Z, Sun X. Paclitaxel inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma tumorigenesis by regulating the circ_0005785/miR-640/GSK3β. Cell Biol Int 2023. [PMID: 37269228 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Paclitaxel (PTX) is an effective chemotherapeutic agent for cancer patients. It has been reported that circular RNA (circRNA) circ_0005785is involved in the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The purpose of this study is to explore the role and mechanism of circ_0005785 in the PTX resistance of HCC. Cell viability, proliferation, invasion, migration, apoptosis, and angiogenesis were detected using 3-(4, 5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2, 5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT), colony formation, transwell, wound-healing, flow cytometry, and tube formation assay. Circ_0005785, microRNA-640 (miR-640), and Glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK3β) levels were detected using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Protein levels of Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), Bcl-2, and GSK3β were measured using western blot assay. After being predicted using Circular RNA interactome or TargetScan, binding between miR-640 and circ_0005785 or GSK3β was verified using dual-luciferase reporter and RNA Immunoprecipitation assay. PTX treatment could repress HCC cell viability, decrease circ_0005785 and GSK3β expression, and increase the miR-640 level in HCC cell lines. Furthermore, circ_0005785 and GSK3β were increased, and miR-640 was decreased in HCC tissues and cell lines. Moreover, circ_0005785 knockdown hindered proliferation, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, and boosted apoptosis in PTX-treated HCC cells in vitro. In addition, circ_0005785 silencing improved the PTX sensitivity of HCC in vivo. Mechanistically, circ_0005785 acted as a sponge of miR-640 to regulate GSK3β expression. PTX restrained HCC tumorigenesis partly via regulating the circ_0005785/miR-640/GSK3β axis, hinting at a promising therapeutic target for the HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianwu Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shijiazhuang People's Hospital, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Xiaojuan Tian
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Pengcheng Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Chengdu Seventh People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Zheng Wang
- Hepatobiliary Surgery, Huai'an Second People's Hospital/Huai'an Hospital, Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xuedong Sun
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shijiazhuang People's Hospital, Shijiazhuang, China
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The Tumorigenic Role of Circular RNA-MicroRNA Axis in Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24033050. [PMID: 36769372 PMCID: PMC9917898 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24033050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of endogenous RNAs that control gene expression at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. Recent studies have increasingly demonstrated that circRNAs act as novel diagnostic biomarkers and promising therapeutic targets for numerous cancer types by interacting with other non-coding RNAs such as microRNAs (miRNAs). The miRNAs are presented as crucial risk factors and regulatory elements in cancer by regulating the expression of their target genes. Some miRNAs are derived from transposable elements (MDTEs) that can transfer their location to another region of the genome. Genetic interactions between miRNAs and circular RNAs can form complex regulatory networks with various carcinogenic processes that play critical roles in tumorigenesis and cancer progression. This review focuses on the biological regulation of the correlative axis among circular RNAs, miRNAs, and their target genes in various cancer types and suggests the biological importance of MDTEs interacting with oncogenic or tumor-suppressive circRNAs in tumor progression.
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Gupta J, Kareem Al-Hetty HRA, Aswood MS, Turki Jalil A, Azeez MD, Aminov Z, Alsaikhan F, Ramírez-Coronel AA, Ramaiah P, Farhood B. The key role of microRNA-766 in the cancer development. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1173827. [PMID: 37205191 PMCID: PMC10185842 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1173827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is caused by defects in coding and non-coding RNAs. In addition, duplicated biological pathways diminish the efficacy of mono target cancer drugs. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short, endogenous, non-coding RNAs that regulate many target genes and play a crucial role in physiological processes such as cell division, differentiation, cell cycle, proliferation, and apoptosis, which are frequently disrupted in diseases such as cancer. MiR-766, one of the most adaptable and highly conserved microRNAs, is notably overexpressed in several diseases, including malignant tumors. Variations in miR-766 expression are linked to various pathological and physiological processes. Additionally, miR-766 promotes therapeutic resistance pathways in various types of tumors. Here, we present and discuss evidence implicating miR-766 in the development of cancer and treatment resistance. In addition, we discuss the potential applications of miR-766 as a therapeutic cancer target, diagnostic biomarker, and prognostic indicator. This may shed light on the development of novel therapeutic strategies for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jitendra Gupta
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, GLA University, Mathura, India
| | - Hussein Riyadh Abdul Kareem Al-Hetty
- Department of Nursing, Al-Maarif University College, Ramadi, Anbar, Iraq
- *Correspondence: Hussein Riyadh Abdul Kareem Al-Hetty, ; Abduladheem Turki Jalil, ; Bagher Farhood, ,
| | - Murtadha Sh. Aswood
- Department of Physics, College of Education, University of Al-Qadisiyah, Al-Diwaniyah, Iraq
| | - Abduladheem Turki Jalil
- Medical Laboratories Techniques Department, Al-Mustaqbal University College, Babylon, Hilla, Iraq
- *Correspondence: Hussein Riyadh Abdul Kareem Al-Hetty, ; Abduladheem Turki Jalil, ; Bagher Farhood, ,
| | | | - Zafar Aminov
- Department of Public Health and Healthcare management, Samarkand State Medical University, Samarkand, Uzbekistan
- Department of Scientific Affairs, Tashkent State Dental Institute, Tashkent, Uzbekistan
| | - Fahad Alsaikhan
- College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj, Saudi Arabia
| | - Andrés Alexis Ramírez-Coronel
- Azogues Campus Nursing Career, Health and Behavior Research Group (HBR), Psychometry and Ethology Laboratory, Catholic University of Cuenca, Cuenca, Ecuador
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics Research Group, CES University, Medellín, Colombia
- Educational Statistics Research Group (GIEE), National University of Education, Azogues, Ecuador
| | | | - Bagher Farhood
- Department of Medical Physics and Radiology, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
- *Correspondence: Hussein Riyadh Abdul Kareem Al-Hetty, ; Abduladheem Turki Jalil, ; Bagher Farhood, ,
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10
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Yuan RH, Hsu CL, Jhuang YL, Liu YR, Hsieh TH, Jeng YM. Tumor-matrix interaction induces phenotypic switching in liver cancer cells. Hepatol Int 2022; 16:562-576. [PMID: 35525880 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-022-10315-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) is characterized by fibrous stroma and clinical behavior more aggressive than that of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Scirrhous HCC is a subtype of HCC with fibrous stroma, frequently has partial cholangiocytic differentiation, and is more likely to have an aggressive behavior. This study explored the interaction of liver cancer cells with the extracellular matrix. METHODS AND RESULTS Liver cancer cells grown on collagen 1-coated plates showed upregulation of cholangiocytic marker expression but downregulation of hepatocytic marker expression. Three-dimensional sphere culture and Boyden chamber assay showed enhanced invasion and migration ability in collagen 1-conditioned liver cancer cells. Interaction with collagen 1 reduced liver cancer cell proliferation. RNA sequencing showed that in the liver cancer cells, collagen 1 upregulated cell cycle inhibitor expression and cell-matrix interaction, tumor migration, and angiogenesis pathways, but downregulated liver metabolic function pathways. Cholangiocytic differentiation and invasiveness induced by collagen 1 was mediated by the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, which was regulated by cell-matrix interaction-induced Src activation. Analysis of the Cancer Genome Atlas cohort showed that collagen 1 induced and suppressed genes were highly enriched in ICC and HCC, respectively. In HCC samples, collagen 1-regulated genes were strongly coexpressed and correlated with COL1A1 expression. CONCLUSIONS Liver cancer cell-matrix interaction induces cholangiocytic differentiation and switches liver cancer cells from a proliferative to an invasive phenotype through the Src/MAPK pathway, which may partly explain the differences in the behaviors of HCC and ICC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ray-Hwang Yuan
- Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Surgery, Hsinchu Branch, National Taiwan University Hospital, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Lang Hsu
- Department of Medical Research, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Lin Jhuang
- Graduate Institute of Pathology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Pathology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yun-Ru Liu
- Joint Biobank Office of Human Research, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Han Hsieh
- Joint Biobank Office of Human Research, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Ming Jeng
- Graduate Institute of Pathology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
- Department of Pathology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
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11
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Li Z, Xu J, Guan H, Lai J, Yang X, Ma J. Circ_0059354 aggravates the progression of papillary thyroid carcinoma by elevating ARFGEF1 through sponging miR-766-3p. J Endocrinol Invest 2022; 45:825-836. [PMID: 34854069 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-021-01713-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been identified as vital players in tumors, including papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). The purpose of this study is to explore the functions of circ_0059354 on PTC development. METHODS Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was conducted to examine the levels of circ_0059354, microRNA-766-3p (miR-766-3p) and ADP ribosylation factor guanine nucleotide exchange factor 1 (ARFGEF1). Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and colony formation assay were proceeded for cell proliferation ability. Transwell assay was conducted for cell migration and invasion. Tube formation assay was employed to examine the angiogenesis ability. Flow cytometry analysis was adopted for cell apoptosis. Western blot assay was conducted for protein levels. Dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay were utilized to verify the relationships among circ_0059354, miR-766-3p and ARFGEF1. The murine xenograft model was constructed to analyze the function of circ_0059354 in vivo. RESULTS Circ_0059354 level was abnormally increased in PTC tissues and cells. Functionally, circ_0059354 silencing suppressed cell proliferation, migration, invasion and angiogenesis and facilitated apoptosis in PTC cells. Circ_0059354 was identified to sponge miR-766-3p, which directly targeted ARFGEF1. Moreover, circ_0059354 directly targeted miR-766-3p to positively regulated ARFGEF1 expression. MiR-766-3p inhibition reversed circ_0059354 knockdown-mediated effect of PTC cell malignant behaviors. Overexpression of miR-766-3p restrained the malignant behaviors of PTC cells, whereas ARFGEF1 elevation reversed the effects. Additionally, circ_0059354 deficiency blocked tumor growth in vivo. CONCLUSION Circ_0059354 served as an oncogene in PTC progression through regulating miR-766-3p/ARFGEF1 axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Li
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157, Xiwu Road, Xi'an, 710004, Shaanxi, China
| | - J Xu
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157, Xiwu Road, Xi'an, 710004, Shaanxi, China
| | - H Guan
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157, Xiwu Road, Xi'an, 710004, Shaanxi, China
| | - J Lai
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157, Xiwu Road, Xi'an, 710004, Shaanxi, China
| | - X Yang
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157, Xiwu Road, Xi'an, 710004, Shaanxi, China
| | - J Ma
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157, Xiwu Road, Xi'an, 710004, Shaanxi, China.
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12
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Wang P, Zhang Y, Deng L, Qu Z, Guo P, Liu L, Yu Z, Wang P, Liu N. The function and regulation network mechanism of circRNA in liver diseases. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:141. [PMID: 35361205 PMCID: PMC8973545 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02559-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Circular RNA (circRNA), a new type of endogenous non-coding RNA, is abundantly present in eukaryotic cells, and characterized as stable high conservation and tissue specific expression. It has been generated increasing attention because of their close association with the progress of diseases. The liver is the vital organ of humans, while it is prone to acute and chronic diseases due to the influence of multiple pathogenic factors. Moreover, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the one of most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Overwhelming evidences indicate that some circRNAs are differentially expressed in liver diseases, such as, HCC, chronic hepatitis B, hepatic steatosis and hepatoblastoma tissues, etc. Additionally, these circRNAs are related to proliferation, invasion, migration, angiogenesis, apoptosis, and metastasis of cell in liver diseases and act as oncogenic agents or suppressors, and linked to clinical manifestations. In this review, we briefly summarize the biogenesis, characterization and biological functions, recent detection and identification technologies of circRNA, and regulation network mechanism of circRNA in liver diseases, and discuss their potential values as biomarkers or therapeutic targets for liver diseases, especially on HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panpan Wang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 540001, People's Republic of China.,South China Hospital, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518116, People's Republic of China
| | - Yunhuan Zhang
- Institute of Chronic Disease Risks Assessment, School of Nursing and Health, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, People's Republic of China
| | - Lugang Deng
- South China Hospital, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518116, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhi Qu
- Institute of Chronic Disease Risks Assessment, School of Nursing and Health, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, People's Republic of China.
| | - Peisen Guo
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 540001, People's Republic of China.,South China Hospital, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518116, People's Republic of China
| | - Limin Liu
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 540001, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Chronic Disease Risks Assessment, School of Nursing and Health, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, People's Republic of China.,South China Hospital, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518116, People's Republic of China
| | - Zengli Yu
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 540001, People's Republic of China.
| | - Peixi Wang
- Institute of Chronic Disease Risks Assessment, School of Nursing and Health, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, People's Republic of China
| | - Nan Liu
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 540001, People's Republic of China. .,Institute of Chronic Disease Risks Assessment, School of Nursing and Health, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, People's Republic of China. .,South China Hospital, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518116, People's Republic of China.
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13
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Louis C, Leclerc D, Coulouarn C. Emerging roles of circular RNAs in liver cancer. JHEP Rep 2022; 4:100413. [PMID: 35036887 PMCID: PMC8749337 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2021.100413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma are the most common primary liver tumours, whose incidence and associated mortality have increased over recent decades. Liver cancer is often diagnosed late when curative treatments are no longer an option. Characterising new molecular determinants of liver carcinogenesis is crucial for the development of innovative treatments and clinically relevant biomarkers. Recently, circular RNAs (circRNAs) emerged as promising regulatory molecules involved in cancer onset and progression. Mechanistically, circRNAs are mainly known for their ability to sponge and regulate the activity of microRNAs and RNA-binding proteins, although other functions are emerging (e.g. transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation, protein scaffolding). In liver cancer, circRNAs have been shown to regulate tumour cell proliferation, migration, invasion and cell death resistance. Their roles in regulating angiogenesis, genome instability, immune surveillance and metabolic switching are emerging. Importantly, circRNAs are detected in body fluids. Due to their circular structure, circRNAs are often more stable than mRNAs or miRNAs and could therefore serve as promising biomarkers - quantifiable with high specificity and sensitivity through minimally invasive methods. This review focuses on the role and the clinical relevance of circRNAs in liver cancer, including the development of innovative biomarkers and therapeutic strategies.
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Key Words
- ASO, antisense oligonucleotide
- CCA, cholangiocarcinoma
- CLIP, cross-linking immunoprecipitation
- EMT, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition
- EVs, extracellular vesicles
- HCC, hepatocellular carcinoma
- HN1, haematopoietic- and neurologic-expressed sequence 1
- IRES, internal ribosome entry sites
- NGS, next-generation sequencing
- QKI, Quaking
- RBP, RNA-binding protein
- RISC, RNA-induced silencing complex
- TAM, tumour-associated macrophage
- TSB, target site blockers
- biomarker
- cancer hallmarks
- cholangiocarcinoma
- circRNA
- circRNA, circular RNA
- hepatocellular carcinoma
- miRNA, microRNA
- shRNA, small-hairpin RNA
- snRNP, small nuclear ribonuclear proteins
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Affiliation(s)
- Corentin Louis
- Inserm, Univ Rennes 1, COSS (Chemistry, Oncogenesis Stress Signaling), UMR_S 1242, Centre de Lutte contre le Cancer Eugène Marquis, F-35042, Rennes, France
| | - Delphine Leclerc
- Inserm, Univ Rennes 1, COSS (Chemistry, Oncogenesis Stress Signaling), UMR_S 1242, Centre de Lutte contre le Cancer Eugène Marquis, F-35042, Rennes, France
| | - Cédric Coulouarn
- Inserm, Univ Rennes 1, COSS (Chemistry, Oncogenesis Stress Signaling), UMR_S 1242, Centre de Lutte contre le Cancer Eugène Marquis, F-35042, Rennes, France
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Transcription Factors Leading to High Expression of Neuropeptide L1CAM in Brain Metastases from Lung Adenocarcinoma and Clinical Prognostic Analysis. DISEASE MARKERS 2022; 2021:8585633. [PMID: 35003395 PMCID: PMC8739529 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8585633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Background There is a lack of understanding of the development of metastasis in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). This study is aimed at exploring the upstream regulatory transcription factors of L1 cell adhesion molecule (L1CAM) and to construct a prognostic model to predict the risk of brain metastasis in LUAD. Methods Differences in gene expression between LUAD and brain metastatic LUAD were analyzed using the Wilcoxon rank-sum test. The GRNdb (http://www.grndb.com) was used to reveal the upstream regulatory transcription factors of L1CAM in LUAD. Single-cell expression profile data (GSE131907) were obtained from the transcriptome data of 10 metastatic brain tissue samples. LUAD prognostic nomogram prediction models were constructed based on the identified significant transcription factors and L1CAM. Results Survival analysis suggested that high L1CAM expression was negatively significantly associated with overall survival, disease-specific survival, and prognosis in the progression-free interval (p < 0.05). The box plot indicates that high expression of L1CAM was associated with distant metastases in LUAD, while ROC curves suggested that high expression of L1CAM was associated with poor prognosis. FOSL2, HOXA9, IRF4, IKZF1, STAT1, FLI1, ETS1, E2F7, and ADARB1 are potential upstream transcriptional regulators of L1CAM. Single-cell data analysis revealed that the expression of L1CAM was found significantly and positively correlated with the expression of ETS1, FOSL2, and STAT1 in brain metastases. L1CAM, ETS1, FOSL2, and STAT1 were used to construct the LUAD prognostic nomogram prediction model, and the ROC curves suggest that the constructed nomogram possesses good predictive power. Conclusion By bioinformatics methods, ETS1, FOSL2, and STAT1 were identified as potential transcriptional regulators of L1CAM in this study. This will help to facilitate the early identification of patients at high risk of metastasis.
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15
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Zhou Y, Mao X, Peng R, Bai D. CircRNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma: characteristic, functions and clinical significance. Int J Med Sci 2022; 19:2033-2043. [PMID: 36483595 PMCID: PMC9724243 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.74713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common and serious types of cancer worldwide, with high incidence and mortality rates. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a novel class of non-coding RNA with important biological functions. In recent years, multiple circRNAs have been found to be involved in the biological processes of tumorigenesis and tumor development. Increasing evidence has shown that circRNAs also play a crucial role in the occurrence and development of HCC. However, the specific molecular mechanism of circRNAs in HCC has not been fully elucidated. The present review systematically summarized the classification and basic characteristics of circRNAs, their biological functions and their role in the occurrence and development of HCC. By summarizing the previous studies on circRNAs in HCC, this study aimed to indicate potential approaches to improving the early diagnosis and treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujun Zhou
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Huaihua First People's Hospital, Huaihua, Hunan, P. R. China
| | - Xingkang Mao
- Cardiovascular Center, Huizhou First Municipal People's Hospital, Huizhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Rui Peng
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Dousheng Bai
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, P. R. China
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16
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Inhibition of FOSL2 aggravates the apoptosis of ovarian cancer cells by promoting the formation of inflammasomes. Genes Genomics 2021; 44:29-38. [PMID: 34773569 PMCID: PMC8727396 DOI: 10.1007/s13258-021-01152-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Background Ovarian cancer is a common gynecological malignancy among female patients and poses a serious threat to women’s health. Although it has been established that Fos-like antigen 2 (FOSL2) is linked to ovarian cancer (OC), its exact role in the development of OC remains unknown. Objective This article aims to investigate the role of FOSL2 in ovarian cancer development. Methods FOSL2 expression in ovarian carcinoma and adjacent tissues was assessed using real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR and western blot. We constructed OE/sh-FOSL2 plasmids and Caspase-1 specific inhibitors (Yvad-CMK) and transfected A 2780 cells with them to identify the relevant cell functions. Furthermore, we used western blot assay to determine the changes in expression of apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD (ASC), cysteine aspartate-specific proteasezymogen procaspase 1 (pro-caspase-1), cysteinyl aspartate-specific proteinase-1 (caspase-1), interleukin-1β precursor (pro-IL-1β), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-18 precursor (pro-IL-18), and interleukin-18 (IL-18). In addition, we measured the concentration of IL-1β and IL-18 using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Moreover, Tthe level of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in the cell supernatant was measured by LDH release assay kit. Results The expression of FOSL2 was significantly higher compared with the surrounding tissues. The proliferation, migration, and invasion of A2780 cells were enhanced after transfection with OE-FOSL2 plasmids; however, the cell apoptosis was significantly decreased. When FOSL2 was overexpressed, the inflammasome-associated proteins such as ASC, caspase-1, IL-1β, and IL-18 were downregulated. Furthermore, FOSL2 induced apoptosis and activated the production of inflammasomes in A2780 cells. Co-therapy with Yvad-CMK and substantially inhibited apoptosis and activation of inflammasomes. Conclusions Inhibition of FOSL2 promotes the apoptosis of OC cells by mediating the formation of an inflammasome.
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17
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Ji C, Hong X, Lan B, Lin Y, He Y, Chen J, Liu X, Ye W, Mo Z, She Z, Lin S. Circ_0091581 Promotes the Progression of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Through Targeting miR-591/FOSL2 Axis. Dig Dis Sci 2021; 66:3074-3085. [PMID: 33040214 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-020-06641-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have shown crucial regulatory roles in cancer biology. We aimed to uncover the role and underlying mechanism of circ_0091581 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression. METHODS The abundance of circ_0091581, microRNA-591 (miR-591) and FOS like 2, AP-1 transcription factor subunit (FOSL2) was measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Cell viability, colony formation ability, and invasion ability were assessed by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, colony formation assay, and transwell invasion assay. The migration ability was analyzed by transwell migration assay and wound healing assay. Flow cytometry was used to evaluate the cell cycle and apoptosis of HCC cells. The interaction between miR-591 and circ_0091581 or FOSL2 was predicted by Circular RNA Interactome database or TargetScan database and confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA immune co-precipitation assay. FOSL2 protein expression was measured by Western blot assay. Xenograft tumor assay was conducted to analyze the role of circ_0091581 in HCC tumor growth in vivo. RESULTS Circ_0091581 was highly expressed in HCC tissue samples and cell lines in contrast to that in adjacent normal tissue samples and THLE-2 cell line. Circ_0091581 accelerated the viability, colony formation, metastasis, and cell cycle, while it impeded the apoptosis of HCC cells. MiR-591 bound to circ_0091581, and circ_0091581 knockdown-mediated effects in HCC cells were largely overturned by miR-591 silencing. FOSL2 was a target of miR-591, and FOSL2 overexpression largely reversed miR-591 accumulation-induced influences in HCC cells. FOSL2 protein expression was down-regulated by circ_0091581 silencing, and the addition of miR-591 inhibitor partly recovered the expression of FOSL2 in HCC cells. Circ_0091581 interference notably suppressed HCC tumor growth in vivo. CONCLUSION Circ_0091581 acted as an oncogene to enhance the viability, colony formation, metastasis and cell cycle and inhibit the apoptosis of HCC cells through targeting miR-591/FOSL2 axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenggang Ji
- Department of General Surgery, Binhaiwan Central Hospital of Dongguan, (also called The Fifth People's Hospital of Dongguan), The Dongguan Affiliated Hospital of Medical College of Jinan University, No.111 Humen Road, Humen Town, Dongguan City, 523905, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xiaocheng Hong
- Department of General Surgery, Binhaiwan Central Hospital of Dongguan, (also called The Fifth People's Hospital of Dongguan), The Dongguan Affiliated Hospital of Medical College of Jinan University, No.111 Humen Road, Humen Town, Dongguan City, 523905, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Bo Lan
- Department of Anorectal Surgery, Binhaiwan Central Hospital of Dongguan, (also called The Fifth People's Hospital of Dongguan), The Dongguan Affiliated Hospital of Medical College of Jinan University, Dongguan City, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Ye Lin
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yingxin He
- Department of General Surgery, Binhaiwan Central Hospital of Dongguan, (also called The Fifth People's Hospital of Dongguan), The Dongguan Affiliated Hospital of Medical College of Jinan University, No.111 Humen Road, Humen Town, Dongguan City, 523905, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jiayang Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Binhaiwan Central Hospital of Dongguan, (also called The Fifth People's Hospital of Dongguan), The Dongguan Affiliated Hospital of Medical College of Jinan University, No.111 Humen Road, Humen Town, Dongguan City, 523905, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xi Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Binhaiwan Central Hospital of Dongguan, (also called The Fifth People's Hospital of Dongguan), The Dongguan Affiliated Hospital of Medical College of Jinan University, No.111 Humen Road, Humen Town, Dongguan City, 523905, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Weijie Ye
- Department of General Surgery, Binhaiwan Central Hospital of Dongguan, (also called The Fifth People's Hospital of Dongguan), The Dongguan Affiliated Hospital of Medical College of Jinan University, No.111 Humen Road, Humen Town, Dongguan City, 523905, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zhikang Mo
- Department of General Surgery, Binhaiwan Central Hospital of Dongguan, (also called The Fifth People's Hospital of Dongguan), The Dongguan Affiliated Hospital of Medical College of Jinan University, No.111 Humen Road, Humen Town, Dongguan City, 523905, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zhanpeng She
- Department of General Surgery, Binhaiwan Central Hospital of Dongguan, (also called The Fifth People's Hospital of Dongguan), The Dongguan Affiliated Hospital of Medical College of Jinan University, No.111 Humen Road, Humen Town, Dongguan City, 523905, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Shuwen Lin
- Department of General Surgery, Binhaiwan Central Hospital of Dongguan, (also called The Fifth People's Hospital of Dongguan), The Dongguan Affiliated Hospital of Medical College of Jinan University, No.111 Humen Road, Humen Town, Dongguan City, 523905, Guangdong Province, China.
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Liu D, Fang L. Current research on circular RNAs and their potential clinical implications in breast cancer. Cancer Biol Med 2021; 18:j.issn.2095-3941.2020.0275. [PMID: 34018386 PMCID: PMC8330541 DOI: 10.20892/j.issn.2095-3941.2020.0275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most common cancers and the leading causes of death among women worldwide, and its morbidity rate is growing. Discovery of novel biomarkers is necessary for early BC detection, treatment, and prognostication. Circular RNAs (circRNAs), a novel type of endogenous non-coding RNAs with covalently closed continuous loops, have been found to have a crucial role in tumorigenesis. Studies have demonstrated that circRNAs are aberrantly expressed in the tumor tissues and plasma of patients with BC, and they modulate gene expression affecting the proliferation, metastasis, and chemoresistance of BC by specifically binding and regulating the expression of microRNAs (miRNAs). Therefore, circRNAs can be used as novel potential diagnostic and prognostic markers, and therapeutic targets for BC. This article summarizes the properties, functions, and regulatory mechanisms of circRNAs, particularly current research on their association with BC proliferation, metastasis, and chemoresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diya Liu
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Diseases, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Shanghai 200070, China
| | - Lin Fang
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Diseases, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Shanghai 200070, China
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Tao X, Shao Y, Yan J, Yang L, Ye Q, Wang Q, Lu R, Guo J. Biological roles and potential clinical values of circular RNAs in gastrointestinal malignancies. Cancer Biol Med 2021; 18:j.issn.2095-3941.2020.0348. [PMID: 33710802 PMCID: PMC8185857 DOI: 10.20892/j.issn.2095-3941.2020.0348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs), a class of endogenous RNA molecules, are produced by alternative splicing of precursor RNA and are covalently linked at the 5' and 3' ends. Recent studies have revealed that dysregulated circRNAs are closely related to the occurrence and progression of gastrointestinal malignancies. Accumulating evidence indicates that circRNAs, including circPVT1, circLARP4, circ-SFMBT2, cir-ITCH, circRNA_100782, circ_100395, circ-DONSON, hsa_circ_0001368, circNRIP1, circFAT1(e2), circCCDC66, circSMARCA5, circ-ZNF652, and circ_0030235 play important roles in the proliferation, differentiation, invasion, and metastasis of cancer cells through a variety of mechanisms, such as acting as microRNA sponges, interacting with RNA-binding proteins, regulating gene transcription and alternative splicing, and being translated into proteins. With the characteristics of high abundance, high stability, extensive functions, and certain tissue-, time- and disease-specific expressions, circRNAs are expected to provide novel perspectives for the diagnoses and treatments of gastrointestinal malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueping Tao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Ningbo University School of Medicine, Ningbo 315211, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Affiliated Hospital of Medical School of Ningbo University, Ningbo 315020, China
| | - Yongfu Shao
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Affiliated Hospital of Medical School of Ningbo University, Ningbo 315020, China
| | - Jianing Yan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Ningbo University School of Medicine, Ningbo 315211, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Affiliated Hospital of Medical School of Ningbo University, Ningbo 315020, China
| | - Liyang Yang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Ningbo University School of Medicine, Ningbo 315211, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Affiliated Hospital of Medical School of Ningbo University, Ningbo 315020, China
| | - Qihua Ye
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Ningbo University School of Medicine, Ningbo 315211, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Affiliated Hospital of Medical School of Ningbo University, Ningbo 315020, China
| | - Qingling Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Ningbo University School of Medicine, Ningbo 315211, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Affiliated Hospital of Medical School of Ningbo University, Ningbo 315020, China
| | - Rongdan Lu
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Affiliated Hospital of Medical School of Ningbo University, Ningbo 315020, China
| | - Junming Guo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Ningbo University School of Medicine, Ningbo 315211, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Affiliated Hospital of Medical School of Ningbo University, Ningbo 315020, China
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20
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Liu R, Li Y, Wu A, Kong M, Ding W, Hu Z, Chen L, Cai W, Wang F. Identification of Plasma hsa_circ_0005397 and Combined With Serum AFP, AFP-L3 as Potential Biomarkers for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:639963. [PMID: 33679420 PMCID: PMC7933497 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.639963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Mounting evidence has demonstrated that circular RNA (circRNA) plays crucial roles in the occurrence and development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the expression pattern and clinical application value of plasma circRNA in HCC are still largely unknown. Herein, we explored the role of plasma hsa_circ_0005397 in diagnosis and prognosis of HCC. Methods: The expression level of plasma hsa_circ_0005397 was measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The identification and origin of plasma hsa_circ_0005397 were confirmed by RNase R assay, Sanger sequencing and HCC cell culture. In addition, its diagnostic value was assessed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and prognostic value was evaluated by dynamics monitoring and Kaplan–Meier curve analyses in HCC patients. Results: The expression of plasma hsa_circ_0005397 was higher in patients with HCC than that in patients with benign liver diseases and healthy controls (both p < 0.05). Moreover, it was closely correlated with tumor size (p = 0.020) and TNM stage (p = 0.006) of HCC patients. The area under the ROC curve of plasma hsa_circ_0005397 was 0.737 and 95% confidence interval was 0.671–0.795. Furthermore, the combination of plasma hsa_cic_0005397, serum AFP and AFP-L3 could improve the diagnostic sensitivity of HCC. Additionally, dynamic monitoring plasma hsa_cic_0005397 might help us predict recurrence or metastasis in HCC patients after surgical resection. Besides, the increased plasma hsa_cic_0005397 was closely correlated with shorter overall survival of HCC patients (p = 0.007). Conclusion: Plasma has_circ_0005397 represents a novel noninvasive biomarker for HCC. Moreover, the combination of plasma hsa_cic_0005397, serum AFP and AFP-L3 might improve the diagnostic value for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruoyu Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Anqi Wu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mingzhu Kong
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Weijia Ding
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zeyang Hu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lin Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Laboratory Medicine, Nantong Third Hospital Affiliated to Nantong University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Weihua Cai
- Department of Gastroenterology and Laboratory Medicine, Nantong Third Hospital Affiliated to Nantong University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Jiangsu, China
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21
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Ely A, Bloom K, Maepa MB, Arbuthnot P. Recent Update on the Role of Circular RNAs in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2021; 8:1-17. [PMID: 33542907 PMCID: PMC7851377 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s268291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
After being overlooked for decades, circular RNAs (circRNAs) have recently generated considerable interest. circRNAs play a role in a variety of normal and pathological biological processes, including hepatocarcinogenesis. Many circRNAs contribute to hepatocarcinogenesis through sponging of microRNAs (miRs) and disruption of cellular signaling pathways that play a part in control of cell proliferation, metastasis and apoptosis. In most cases, overexpressed circRNAs sequester miRs to cause de-repressed translation of mRNAs that encode oncogenic proteins. Conversely, low expression of circRNAs has also been described in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and is associated with inhibited production of tumor suppressor proteins. Other functions of circRNAs that contribute to hepatocarcinogenesis include translation of truncated proteins and acting as adapters to regulate influence of transcription factors on target gene expression. circRNAs also affect hepatocyte transformation indirectly. For example, the molecules regulate immune surveillance of cancerous cells and influence the liver fibrosis that commonly precedes HCC. Marked over- or under-expression of circRNA expression in HCC, with correlating plasma concentrations, has diagnostic utility and assays of these RNAs are being developed as biomarkers of HCC. Although knowledge in the field has recently surged, the myriad of described effects suggests that not all may be vital to hepatocarcinogenesis. Nevertheless, investigation of the role of circRNAs is providing valuable insights that are likely to contribute to improved management of a serious and highly aggressive cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Ely
- Wits/SAMRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Kristie Bloom
- Wits/SAMRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Mohube Betty Maepa
- Wits/SAMRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Patrick Arbuthnot
- Wits/SAMRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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22
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Zhu Z, Shen S, Zhao S, Wang Z. Hsa_circ_0006916 Knockdown Represses the Development of Hepatocellular Carcinoma via Modulating miR-599/SRSF2 Axis. Onco Targets Ther 2020; 13:11301-11313. [PMID: 33177838 PMCID: PMC7649248 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s267471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The aberrantly expressed circular RNAs (circRNAs) are implicated in the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). CircRNA hsa_circ_0006916 (circ_0006916) is dysregulated in HCC, but the function and mechanism of this circRNA in HCC development remain uncertain. Methods Thirty paired HCC and normal tissues were collected. circ_0006916, microRNA (miR)-599 and serine/arginine rich splicing factor 2 (SRSF2) abundances were examined via quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction or Western blot. Cell viability, colony ability, migration, invasion, cell cycle and apoptosis were tested via cell counting kit-8, colony formation, wound healing analysis, transwell analysis, and flow cytometry. The interaction between miR-599 and circ_0006916 or SRSF2 was analyzed via dual-luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation analyses. The function of circ_0006916 on cell growth in vivo was analyzed via xenograft model. Results circ_0006916 expression was increased in HCC tissues and cell lines. circ_0006916 knockdown reduced cell viability, colony formation, migration and invasion and caused cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. miR-599 was targeted via circ_0006916, and miR-599 knockdown reversed the influence of circ_0006916 silence on HCC progression. SRSF2 was targeted via miR-599, and miR-599 overexpression suppressed cell viability, colony formation, migration and invasion and promoted cell cycle arrest and apoptosis via decreasing SRSF2. circ_0006916 could regulate SRSF2 expression via miR-599. circ_0006916 knockdown decreased HCC cell growth in the xenograft model. Conclusion circ_0006916 knockdown represses the progression of HCC via regulating miR-599 and SRSF2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhixiang Zhu
- Image Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan 475001, People's Republic of China
| | - Songhe Shen
- Image Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan 475001, People's Republic of China
| | - Sen Zhao
- Image Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan 475001, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhixue Wang
- Image Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan 475001, People's Republic of China
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23
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Wu D, Xia A, Fan T, Li G. circRASGRF2 functions as an oncogenic gene in hepatocellular carcinoma by acting as a miR-1224 sponge. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2020; 23:13-26. [PMID: 33312757 PMCID: PMC7711184 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2020.10.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNAs broadly expressed in cells of various species. However, the contributions and molecular mechanisms of circRNAs to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain largely unknown. In the present study, we compared the expression of circRNAs between five paired HCC and adjacent noncancerous liver (ANL) tissues by using RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq). circRASGRF2 (a circRNA located on chromosome 5 and derived from RASGRF2, hsa_circ_0073181) was identified and validated by quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR. The role of circRASGRF2 in HCC progression was assessed both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, RNA immunoprecipitation and luciferase reporter assays were performed to confirm the interaction between circRASGRF2 and miR-1224 in HCC. circRASGRF2 was found to be significantly upregulated in HCC tissues and HCC cell lines compared with paired ANL tissues and normal cells. Our in vivo and in vitro data indicated that knockdown of circRASGRF2 inhibits the proliferation and migration of HCC cells. Mechanistically, we found that circRASGRF2 could promote the expression of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) by sponging miR-1224. Our data showed that circRASGRF2 is a central component linking circRNAs to progression of HCC, making it a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Wu
- Department of Liver Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, P.R. China
| | - Anliang Xia
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu Province, P.R. China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu Province, P.R. China
| | - Tianlong Fan
- Department of Liver Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, P.R. China
| | - Guoqiang Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu Province, P.R. China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu Province, P.R. China
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24
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Zhang S, Chen H, Liu W, Fang L, Qian Z, Kong R, Zhang Q, Li J, Cao X. miR-766-3p Targeting BCL9L Suppressed Tumorigenesis, Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition, and Metastasis Through the β-Catenin Signaling Pathway in Osteosarcoma Cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:594135. [PMID: 33117820 PMCID: PMC7575756 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.594135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence has indicated that abnormal microRNAs (miRNAs) serve critical roles in carcinogenesis and development of osteosarcoma (OS). The purpose of the present study was to elucidate the relationship between miR-766-3p and development of osteosarcoma and explore the potential mechanism. In this study, we found that miR-766-3p was the most downregulated miRNA by analyzing GSE65071 from the GEO database. miR-766-3p was lowly expressed in OS tissue samples and cells, and high miR-766-3p expression repressed the malignant level of OS, including cell proliferation, EMT, migration, and invasion in vitro and in vivo. B-Cell Lymphoma 9-Like Protein (BCL9L) was negatively associated with miR-766-3p expression in OS cells and tissue samples and was validated as the downstream target by luciferase reporter assay and western blotting. Rescue experiment indicated that BCL9L could restore the influence of miR-766-3p on OS cells. In addition, the β-Catenin/TCF-4 signal pathway was demonstrated to be related to the miR-766-3p/BCL9L axis. In summary, miR-766-3p, a negative regulator of BCL9L, plays the role of tumor metastasis suppressor via the β-catenin signaling pathway in the progression of OS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hongtao Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wanshun Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Le Fang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhanyang Qian
- Department of Orthopedics, The Affiliated Zhongda Hospital of Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Renyi Kong
- Department of Orthopedics, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Department of Painology, Sir Run Run Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Juming Li
- Department of Orthopedics, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaojian Cao
- Department of Orthopedics, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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25
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Zhao X, Wang Y, Yu Q, Yu P, Zheng Q, Yang X, Gao D. Circular RNAs in gastrointestinal cancer: Current knowledge, biomarkers and targeted therapy (Review). Int J Mol Med 2020; 46:1611-1632. [PMID: 33000182 PMCID: PMC7521476 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2020.4731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a type of endogenous non‑coding RNAs that are connected at the 3' and 5' ends by exon or intron cyclization, which forms a covalently closed loop. They are stable, well conserved, exhibit specific expression in mammalian cells and can function as microRNA (miRNA or miR) sponges to regulate the target genes of miRNAs, which influences biological processes. Such as tumor proliferation, invasion, metastasis, apoptosis and tumor stage. circRNAs represent promising candidates for clinical diagnosis and treatment. In the present review, the biogenesis, classification and functions of circRNAs in tumors are briefly summarized and discussed. In addition, the participation of circRNAs in signal transduction pathways regulating gastrointestinal cancer cellular functions is highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaorui Zhao
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Yue Wang
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Qiongfang Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Pei Yu
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Qiaoyu Zheng
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Xue Yang
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Dian Gao
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
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26
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Jiang P, Han W, Fu Y, Chen Q. The Hsa_circ_0091579/miR-940/TACR1 Axis Regulates the Development of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancer Manag Res 2020; 12:9087-9096. [PMID: 33061603 PMCID: PMC7532044 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s259243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play important roles in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. The circRNA hsa_circ_0091579 (circ_0091579) is dysregulated in HCC, while the mechanism of circ_0091579 in HCC development is largely unknown. Patients and Methods Thirty paired cancer and adjacent normal tissues were harvested from HCC patients. SNU-387 and Huh7 cells were cultured in this study. circ_0091579, microRNA-940 (miR-940) and tachykinin-1 receptor (TACR1) abundances were measured via quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction or Western blot. Cell viability, migration, invasion, colony ability, cell cycle distribution and apoptosis were assessed via 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide, transwell assay, colony formation assay and flow cytometry. The interaction among circ_0091579, miR-940 and TACR1 was tested via dual-luciferase reporter analysis. The anti-HCC role of circ_0091579 knockdown in vivo was investigated using xenograft model. Results circ_0091579 expression was enhanced in HCC tissue samples and cells. circ_0091579 silence inhibited cell viability, migration, invasion and colony formation, induced cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase, and promoted apoptosis in HCC cells. miR-940 was targeted via circ_0091579 and miR-940 knockdown reversed the suppressive effect of circ_0091579 silence on HCC development. miR-940 targeted TACR1 to repress HCC development. circ_0091579 could regulate TACR1 expression by mediating miR-940. Down-regulation of circ_0091579 decreased xenograft tumor growth. Conclusion Knockdown of circ_0091579 repressed HCC development by mediating miR-940/TACR1 axis, indicating a new pathogenesis of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiqiang Jiang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Han
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Fu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Qingmin Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
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27
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Gao L, Jin HJ, Zhang D, Lin Q. Silencing circRNA_001937 may inhibit cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma proliferation and induce apoptosis by preventing the sponging of the miRNA‑597‑3p/FOSL2 pathway. Int J Mol Med 2020; 46:1653-1660. [PMID: 33000177 PMCID: PMC7521585 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2020.4723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are reported to be aberrantly expressed and perform different functions in numerous types of tumor; however, their expression levels in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) remain largely unclear. Thus, the purpose of the present study was to investigate the function of circRNA_001937 in CSCC. Differential circRNA expression profiles of CSCC were analyzed using the Arraystar Human circRNAs chip and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR); and the effects of circRNA_001937 on cell behavior, in particular its regulation over the microRNA (miRNA)-597-3p/Fos-related antigen 2 (FOSL2) pathway, was investigated using a dual-luciferase reporter assay, and verified using RT-qPCR and western blotting. circRNA_001937 expression levels were significantly increased in CSCC tissues and cell lines compared with the corresponding adjacent tissues and control cells (P<0.05). The genetic silencing of circRNA_001937 with small interfering RNA significantly inhibited cell proliferation, and induced cell apoptosis (P<0.05). circRNA_001937 was observed to directly bind to miRNA-597-3p and serve as a sponge, which indirectly increased the expression levels of FOSL2, a miRNA-597-3p target gene. In conclusion, circRNA_001937 expression was increased in CSCC and silencing circRNA_001937 gene expression may inhibit CSCC progression by sponging the miRNA-597-3p/FOSL2 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Gao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Hong-Juan Jin
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Duo Zhang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Quan Lin
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
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28
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Xu Q, Zhou L, Yang G, Meng F, Wan Y, Wang L, Zhang L. Overexpression of circ_0001445 decelerates hepatocellular carcinoma progression by regulating miR-942-5p/ALX4 axis. Biotechnol Lett 2020; 42:2735-2747. [PMID: 32856218 DOI: 10.1007/s10529-020-02985-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 08/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been verified to have essential regulatory roles in diverse human cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this study, we aimed to explore the roles of circ_0001445 in HCC. Herein, circ_0001445 was decreased and miR-942-5p was increased in HCC tissues and cells. Circ_0001445 overexpression or miR-942-5p inhibition repressed cell cycle process, migration, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition and glycolysis in HCC cells. Mechanistically, circ_0001445 could promote ALX4 expression through targeting miR-942-5p. Moreover, miR-942-5p overexpression reversed the inhibitory effect of circ_0001445 on HCC cell progression. The effect of miR-942-5p on HCC cell development was rescued following the elevation of ALX4. In addition, circ_0001445 overexpression restrained tumorigenesis in vivo. In conclusion, circ_0001445 played a negative role in HCC progression by modulating miR-942-5p/ALX4 axis, which might provide a novel target for HCC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinhong Xu
- Department of Geriatric Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 277, Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lijing Zhou
- Department of Geriatric Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 277, Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ganghua Yang
- Department of Geriatric Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 277, Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Fandi Meng
- Department of Geriatric Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 277, Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yong Wan
- Department of Geriatric Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 277, Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lin Wang
- Department of Geriatric Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 277, Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Geriatric Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 277, Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China.
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29
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Wu A, Li Y, Kong M, Zhu B, Liu R, Bao F, Ju S, Chen L, Wang F. Upregulated hsa_circ_0005785 Facilitates Cell Growth and Metastasis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Through the miR-578/APRIL Axis. Front Oncol 2020; 10:1388. [PMID: 32974140 PMCID: PMC7466587 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.01388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Although accumulating documents have expounded the pivotal position of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in hepatocarcinogenesis and progression, the overwhelming majority of their functions and molecular mechanisms in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are elusive. Herein, we explored the functions and potential mechanisms of hsa_circ_0005785 in HCC, which was aberrantly overexpressed in HCC and related to HCC patients' TNM stage and overall survival. Moreover, hsa_circ_0005785 depletion could repress proliferation and metastasis of the HCC cell in vitro, lead to cell apoptosis and cell-cycle arrest, and restrain HCC cell growth in vivo. Furthermore, mechanism analyses discovered that hsa_circ_0005785 adsorbed miR-578 by playing a miRNA sponge role, which resulted in the derepression of a proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL) expression, miR-578's mRNA target. Besides, hsa_circ_0005785 reversed the suppressive influence of miR-578 on HCC and accelerated tumor malignant progression through the miR-578/APRIL axis. Taken together, our current study revealed an oncogenic role of hsa_circ_0005785 in the tumorigenesis of HCC. Moreover, targeting to the hsa_circ_0005785/miR-578/APRIL regulatory pathway might be a promising diagnostic and therapeutic strategy for HCC clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anqi Wu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Mingzhu Kong
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Baihui Zhu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Ruoyu Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Fang Bao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Shaoqing Ju
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Lin Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Laboratory Medicine, Nantong Third Hospital Affiliated to Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
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30
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Wang HY, Wang YP, Zeng X, Zheng Y, Guo QH, Ji R, Zhou YN. Circular RNA is a popular molecule in tumors of the digestive system (Review). Int J Oncol 2020; 57:21-42. [PMID: 32377736 PMCID: PMC7252451 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2020.5054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Most tumors of the digestive system, including esophageal, gastric, liver and colorectal cancer, are malignant tumors that are associated with rates of high morbidity and mortality. The lack of effective methods for early diagnosis is an important cause of poor prognosis for these malignancies. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) belong to a family of endogenous, covalently closed non‑coding RNAs that are characterized as having no 5' cap structures or 3' poly‑A tails. Shortly following discovery, circRNAs were considered to be a product of mis‑splicing and have no significant biological function. However, in recent years, accumulating evidence is demonstrating that they serve key roles in tumorigenesis and have the potential to serve as diagnostic markers. The present article summarizes the biogenesis and function of circRNAs and reviews their role in seven common types of tumor of the digestive system whilst exploring their potential as tumor markers and the significant roles they can serve in the digestive system, in addition to providing a referencing point for future studies of digestive system malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao-Ying Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology
- Key Laboratory for Gastrointestinal Diseases of Gansu Province, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Yu-Ping Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology
- Key Laboratory for Gastrointestinal Diseases of Gansu Province, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Xi Zeng
- Department of Gastroenterology
- Key Laboratory for Gastrointestinal Diseases of Gansu Province, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Ya Zheng
- Department of Gastroenterology
- Key Laboratory for Gastrointestinal Diseases of Gansu Province, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Qing-Hong Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology
- Key Laboratory for Gastrointestinal Diseases of Gansu Province, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Rui Ji
- Department of Gastroenterology
- Key Laboratory for Gastrointestinal Diseases of Gansu Province, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
| | - Yong-Ning Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology
- Key Laboratory for Gastrointestinal Diseases of Gansu Province, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, P.R. China
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