18β-glycyrrhetinic acid suppresses gastric cancer by activation of miR-149-3p-Wnt-1 signaling

Modified Gexia-Zhuyu Tang inhibits gastric cancer progression by restoring gut microbiota and regulating pyroptosis

BACKGROUND

Gexia-Zhuyu Tang (GZT), a traditional Chinese medicine formula, is used to treat a variety of diseases. However, its roles in gastric cancer (GC) remain unclear.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to explore the roles and underlying molecular mechanisms of modified GZT in GC.

METHODS

The effects of modified GZT on GC were investigated by constructing mouse xenograft models with MFC cell line. The fecal samples from low-dose, high-dose, and without modified GZT treatment groups were collected for the 16S rRNA gene sequencing and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT). Histopathological alterations of mice were evaluated using the hematoxylin-eosin (HE). Immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis with Ki67 and GSDMD was performed to measure tissue cell proliferation and pyroptosis, respectively. Proteins associated with pyroptosis, invasion, and metastasis were detected by Western blotting. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to assess inflammation-related factors levels.

RESULTS

Modified GZT inhibited GC tumor growth and reduced metastasis and invasion-related proteins expression levels, including CD147, VEGF, and MMP-9. Furthermore, it notably promoted caspase-1-dependent pyroptosis, as evidenced by a dose-dependent increase in TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-18, and LDH levels, along with elevated protein expression of NLRP3, ASC, and caspase-1. Additionally, modified GZT increased species abundance and diversity of the intestinal flora. FMT assay identified that modified GZT inhibited GC tumor progression through regulation of intestinal flora.

CONCLUSIONS

Modified GZT treatment may promote pyroptosis by modulating gut microbiota in GC. This study identifies a new potential approach for the GC clinical treatment.

miR‑149‑3p suppresses the proliferation and metastasis of glioma cells by targeting the CBX2/Wnt/β‑catenin pathway

The present study aimed to investigate the role of miR-149-3p/chromobox 2 (CBX2)/Wnt/β-catenin pathway in the proliferation and metastasis of glioma cells. The expression and clinical significance of miR-149-3p and CBX2 were analyzed using data from public databases. Cell Counting Kit-8 and colony formation assays were performed to measure cell proliferation. Transwell assays were used to assess cell invasion. The results showed that miR-149-3p was downregulated and CBX2 was upregulated in glioma, and that the downregulated expression of miR-149-3p promoted the proliferation and invasion of glioma cells. In addition, downregulated expression of CBX2 suppressed the proliferation and invasion of glioma cells. Dual-luciferase assay indicated that CBX2 is a target gene of miR149-3p. The possible molecular mechanism of CBX2 was probed by western blotting, which showed that it may further affect the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. These present findings demonstrated that miR-149-3p may function as a tumor suppressor miRNA by directly regulating CBX2 and serve important roles in the malignancy of glioma.

Pharmacological Mechanisms and Adjuvant Properties of Licorice Glycyrrhiza in Treating Gastric Cancer

Licorice is a remarkable traditional Chinese medicine obtained from the dried root and rhizomes of the Glycyrrhiza genus, and t has been utilized in China for many centuries. It consists of more than 300 compounds that are mainly divided into triterpene saponins, flavonoids, polysaccharides, and phenolic components. The active compounds of licorice have been found to possess multiple biological activities, including antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antimicrobial, immunoregulatory, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective functions. In addition to providing a brief overview of licorice's adjuvant properties, this review describes and analyzes the pharmacological mechanisms by which licorice components function to treat gastric cancer. Furthermore, licorice compounds are also found to be potent adjuvant chemotherapy agents, as they can improve the quality of life of cancer patients and alleviate chemotherapy-induced adverse effects.

18β-glycyrrhetinic acid promotes gastric cancer cell autophagy and inhibits proliferation by regulating miR-328-3p/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3

BACKGROUND

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common cancer types worldwide, and its prevention and treatment methods have garnered much attention. As the active ingredient of licorice, 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid (18β-GRA) has a variety of pharmacological effects. The aim of this study was to explore the effective target of 18β-GRA in the treatment of GC, in order to provide effective ideas for the clinical prevention and treatment of GC.

AIM

To investigate the mechanism of 18β-GRA in inhibiting cell proliferation and promoting autophagy flux in GC cells.

METHODS

Whole transcriptomic analyses were used to analyze and screen differentially expressed microRNAs (miRNAs) in GC cells after 18β-GRA intervention. Lentivirus-transfected GC cells and the Cell Counting Kit-8 were used to detect cell proliferation ability, cell colony formation ability was detected by the clone formation assay, and flow cytometry was used to detect the cell cycle and apoptosis. A nude mouse transplantation tumor model of GC cells was constructed to verify the effect of miR-328-3p overexpression on the tumorigenicity of GC cells. Tumor tissue morphology was observed by hematoxylin and eosin staining, and microtubule-associated protein light chain 3 (LC3) expression was detected by immunohistochemistry. TransmiR, STRING, and miRWalk databases were used to predict the relationship between miR-328-3p and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3)-related information. Expression of STAT3 mRNA and miR-328-3p was detected by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and the expression levels of STAT3, phosphorylated STAT3 (p-STAT3), and LC3 were detected by western blot analysis. The targeted relationship between miR-328-3p and STAT3 was detected using the dual-luciferase reporter gene system. AGS cells were infected with monomeric red fluorescent protein-green fluorescent protein-LC3 adenovirus double label. LC3 was labeled and autophagy flow was observed under a confocal laser microscope.

RESULTS

The expression of miR-328-3p was significantly upregulated after 18β-GRA intervention in AGS cells (P = 4.51E-06). Overexpression of miR-328-3p inhibited GC cell proliferation and colony formation ability, arrested the cell cycle in the G0/G1 phase, promoted cell apoptosis, and inhibited the growth of subcutaneous tumors in BALB/c nude mice (P < 0.01). No obvious necrosis was observed in the tumor tissue in the negative control group (no drug intervention or lentivirus transfection) and vector group (the blank vector for lentivirus transfection), and more cells were loose and necrotic in the miR-328-3p group. Bioinformatics tools predicted that miR-328-3p has a targeting relationship with STAT3, and STAT3 was closely related to autophagy markers such as p62. After overexpressing miR-328-3p, the expression level of STAT3 mRNA was significantly decreased (P < 0.01) and p-STAT3 was downregulated (P < 0.05). The dual-luciferase reporter gene assay showed that the luciferase activity of miR-328-3p and STAT3 3’ untranslated regions of the wild-type reporter vector group was significantly decreased (P < 0.001). Overexpressed miR-328-3p combined with bafilomycin A₁ (Baf A₁) was used to detect the expression of LC3 II. Compared with the vector group, the expression level of LC3 II in the overexpressed miR-328-3p group was downregulated (P < 0.05), and compared with the Baf A₁ group, the expression level of LC3 II in the overexpressed miR-328-3p + Baf A₁ group was upregulated (P < 0.01). The expression of LC3 II was detected after intervention of 18β-GRA in GC cells, and the results were consistent with the results of miR-328-3p overexpression (P < 0.05). Additional studies showed that 18β-GRA promoted autophagy flow by promoting autophagosome synthesis (P < 0.001). qPCR showed that the expression of STAT3 mRNA was downregulated after drug intervention (P < 0.05). Western blot analysis showed that the expression levels of STAT3 and p-STAT3 were significantly downregulated after drug intervention (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

18β-GRA promotes the synthesis of autophagosomes and inhibits GC cell proliferation by regulating the miR-328-3p/STAT3 signaling pathway.

Exploring the molecular mechanism of glycyrrhetinic acid in the treatment of gastric cancer based on network pharmacology and experimental validation

There is a wide range of pharmacological effects for glycyrrhetinic acid (GRA). Previous studies have shown that GRA could inhibit the proliferation of tumor cells, showing a promising value in the treatment of gastric cancer (GC). Nonetheless, the precise mechanism of the effect of GRA on GC remains unclear. We explored cellular and molecular mechanisms of GRA based on network pharmacology and in vitro experimental validation. In this study, we predicted 156 potential therapeutic targets for GC with GRA from public databases. We then screened the hub targets using protein-protein interaction network (PPI) and conducted clinical correlation analysis. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment showed that GRA made anti-GC effects through multiple targets and pathways, particularly the MAPK signaling pathway. Next, molecular docking results revealed a potential interaction between GRA and MAPK3. In addition, qRT-PCR experiments revealed that 18β-GRA was able to suppress mRNA expression of KRAS, ERK1 and ERK2 in AGS cells. Western blotting results also revealed that 18β-GRA was able to suppress the expression of KRAS and p-ERK1/2 proteins in AGS cells. Additionally, immunofluorescence assays revealed that 18β-GRA inhibited p-ERK1/2 nuclear translocation in AGS cells. These results systematically reveal that 18β-GRA may have anti-tumor effects on GC by modulating the MAPK signaling pathway.

Pharmacological Features of 18β-Glycyrrhetinic Acid: A Pentacyclic Triterpenoid of Therapeutic Potential

Glycyrrhiza glabra L. (belonging to the family Leguminosae), commonly known as Licorice, is a popular medicinal plant that has been used in traditional medicine worldwide for its ethnopharmacological efficacy in treating several ailments. Natural herbal substances with strong biological activity have recently received much attention. The main metabolite of glycyrrhizic acid is 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid (18βGA), a pentacyclic triterpene. A major active plant component derived from licorice root, 18βGA has sparked a lot of attention due to its pharmacological properties. The current review thoroughly examines the literature on 18βGA, a major active plant component obtained from Glycyrrhiza glabra L. The current work provides insight into the pharmacological activities of 18βGA and the potential mechanisms of action involved. The plant contains a variety of phytoconstituents such as 18βGA, which has a variety of biological effects including antiasthmatic, hepatoprotective, anticancer, nephroprotective, antidiabetic, antileishmanial, antiviral, antibacterial, antipsoriasis, antiosteoporosis, antiepileptic, antiarrhythmic, and anti-inflammatory, and is also useful in the management of pulmonary arterial hypertension, antipsychotic-induced hyperprolactinemia, and cerebral ischemia. This review examines research on the pharmacological characteristics of 18βGA throughout recent decades to demonstrate its therapeutic potential and any gaps that may exist, presenting possibilities for future drug research and development.

DDX17 induces epithelial-mesenchymal transition and metastasis through the miR-149-3p/CYBRD1 pathway in colorectal cancer

DEAD box helicase 17 (DDX17) has been reported to be involved in the initiation and development of several cancers. However, the functional role and mechanisms of DDX17 in colorectal cancer (CRC) malignant progression and metastasis remain unclear. Here, we reported that DDX17 expression was increased in CRC tissues compared with noncancerous mucosa tissues and further upregulated in CRC liver metastasis compared with patient-paired primary tumors. High levels of DDX17 were significantly correlated with aggressive phenotypes and worse clinical outcomes in CRC patients. Ectopic expression of DDX17 promoted cell migration and invasion in vitro and in vivo, while the opposite results were obtained in DDX17-deficient CRC cells. We identified miR-149-3p as a potential downstream miRNA of DDX17 through RNA sequencing analysis, and miR-149-3p displayed a suppressive effect on the metastatic potential of CRC cells. We demonstrated that CYBRD1 (a ferric reductase that contributes to dietary iron absorption) was a direct target of miR-149-3p and that miR-149-3p was required for DDX17-mediated regulation of CYBRD1 expression. Moreover, DDX17 contributed to the metastasis and epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) of CRC cells via downregulation of miR-149-3p, which resulted in increased CYBRD1 expression. In conclusion, our findings not only highlight the significance of DDX17 in the aggressive development and prognosis of CRC patients, but also reveal a novel mechanism underlying DDX17-mediated CRC cell metastasis and EMT progression through manipulation of the miR-149-3p/CYBRD1 pathway.

MicroRNA-149 Regulates Proliferation, Migration, and Invasion of Pituitary Adenoma Cells by Targeting ADAM12 and MMP14

OBJECTIVE

Pituitary adenomas (PAs) can adapt an aggressive phenotype by invading adjacent brain structures with rapid cellular proliferation. Previous studies demonstrated that excessive expression of metalloproteases ADAM12 and MMP-14 is instrumental for the active proliferation and invasiveness of PA cells in vitro and of tumors in vivo. However, the mechanisms regulating ADAM12 and MMP-14 expression in PAs remain unclear.

METHODS

Target gene prediction and transcriptomic profiling of invasive vs. noninvasive human PA samples were performed to identify miRNA species potentially involved in the regulation of ADAM12 and MMP14. For cellular analyses of miRNA functions, two mouse PA cell lines (AtT20 and TtT/GF) were transfected with miR-149-3p and miR-149-5p, respectively. The effects of miR-149 (3p and 5p) on expression levels of ADAM12 and MMP14 were determined by Western blotting followed by an analysis of proliferation and colony formation assays, scratch migration assays, and invasion assays.

RESULTS

A significant downregulation of miRNA-149 was observed in invasive vs. noninvasive PA (0.32 vs. 0.09, P<0.0001). In AtT-20 and TtT/GF mouse PAs cells, transfection of mimic miRNA-149 (3p and 5p) caused a significantly reduced cell proliferation and matrigel invasion, whilst the effect on cell migration was less pronounced. Both strands of miRNA-149 (3p and 5p) markedly reduced protein levels of ADAM12 and MMP-14 by at least 40% in both cell lines.

CONCLUSION

This study proved that the invasiveness of PA cells is, at least partly, regulated by miRNA-149-dependent expression of ADAM12 and MMP-14.

MicroRNA-149-3p expression correlates with outcomes of adrenocortical tumor patients and affects proliferation and cell cycle progression of H295A adrenocortical cancer cell line

Pediatric adrenocortical tumor (ACT) is a rare and aggressive neoplasm, with incidence in southern and southeastern Brazil 10-15 times higher than worldwide. Although microRNAs (miRNAs) have been reported to act as tumor suppressors or oncogenes in several cancers, the role of miR-149-3p in ACT remains unknown. In this study, we evaluated the expression of miR-149-3p in 67 pediatric ACT samples and 19 non-neoplastic adrenal tissues. The overexpression of miR-149-3p was induced in H295A cell line, and cell viability, proliferation, colony formation, and cell cycle were assessed by in miR-149-3p mimic or mimic control. In silico analysis were used to predict miR-149-3p putative target genes. CDKN1A expression at the mRNA and protein levels was evaluated by qRT-PCR and western blot, respectively. Higher miR-149-3p expression was associated with unfavorable ACT outcomes. Compared to the mimic control, miR-149-3p overexpression increased cell viability and colony formation, and affected cell cycle progression. Also, we identified CDKN1A as a potential miR-149-3p target gene, with decreased expression at both the gene and protein levels in miR-149-3p mimic cells. Collectively, these findings suggest that miR-149-3p promotes H295A cell viability by downregulating CDKN1A and provide evidence that miR-149-3p may be useful as a novel therapeutic target for pediatric ACT.

RETRACTED ARTICLE: Down-regulation of lncRNA FEZF1-AS1 mediates regulatory T cell differentiation and further blocks immune escape in colon cancer

Statement of RetractionWe, the Editors and Publisher of the journal Expert Review of Molecular Diagnostics, have retracted the following article:Sen Hong, Zhenkun Yan, YuMei Song, MiaoMiao Bi & Shiquan Li. Down-regulation of lncRNA FEZF1-AS1 mediates regulatory T cell differentiation and further blocks immune escape in colon cancer. Expert Review of Molecular Diagnostics. 2021. DOI: 10.1080/14737159.2022.2012157Since publication, significant concerns have been raised about the integrity of the data and reported results in the article. When approached for an explanation, the authors did not provide their original data or any necessary supporting information. As verifying the validity of published work is core to the integrity of the scholarly record, we are therefore retracting the article. The corresponding author listed in this publication has been informed.We have been informed in our decision-making by our policy on publishing ethics and integrity and the COPE guidelines on retractions.The retracted article will remain online to maintain the scholarly record, but it will be digitally watermarked on each page as 'Retracted'.

18β-glycyrrhetinic acid regulates mitochondrial ribosomal protein L35-associated apoptosis signaling pathways to inhibit proliferation of gastric carcinoma cells

BACKGROUND

Gastric carcinoma (GC) is a common gastrointestinal malignancy worldwide. Based on the cancer-related mortality, the current prevention and treatment strategies for GC still show poor clinical results. Therefore, it is important to find effective drug treatment targets.

AIM

To explore the mechanism by which 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid (18β-GRA) regulates mitochondrial ribosomal protein L35 (MRPL35) related signal proteins to inhibit the proliferation of GC cells.

METHODS

Cell counting kit-8 assay was used to detect the effects of 18β-GRA on the survival rate of human normal gastric mucosal cell line GES-1 and the proliferation of GC cell lines MGC80-3 and BGC-823. The apoptosis and cell cycle were assessed by flow cytometry. Cell invasion and migration were evaluated by Transwell assay, and cell scratch test was used to detect cell migration. Furthermore, a tumor model was established by hypodermic injection of 2.5 × 10⁶ BGC-823 cells at the selected positions of BALB/c nude mice to determine the effect of 18β-GRA on GC cell proliferation, and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to detect MRPL35 expression in the engrafted tumors in mice. We used the term tandem mass tag (TMT) labeling combined with liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry to screen for differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) extracted from GC cells and control cells after 18β-GRA intervention. A detailed bioinformatics analysis of these DEPs was performed, including Gene Ontology annotation and enrichment analysis, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analysis, and so on. Moreover, STRING database (https://string-db.org/) was used to predict protein-protein interaction (PPI) relationships and Western blot was used to detect the expression of proteins of interest in GC cells.

RESULTS

The results indicated that 18β-GRA could inhibit the proliferation of GC cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. It could induce GC cell apoptosis and arrest the cell cycle at G0/G1 phase. The proportion of cells arrested at S phase decreased with the increase of 18-GRA dose, and the migration and invasiveness of GC cells were inhibited. The results of animal experiments showed that 18β-GRA could inhibit tumor formation in BALB/c nude mice, and qRT-PCR results showed that MRPL35 expression level was significantly reduced in the engrafted tumors in mice. Using TMT technology, 609 DEPs, among which 335 were up-regulated and 274 were down-regulated, were identified in 18β-GRA intervention compared with control. We found that the intervention of 18β-GRA in GC cells involved many important biological processes and signaling pathways, such as cellular processes, biological regulation, and TP53 signaling pathway. Notably, after the drug intervention, MRPL35 expression was significantly down-regulated (P = 0.000247), TP53 expression was up-regulated (P = 0.02676), and BCL2L1 was down-regulated (P = 0.01699). Combined with the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins database, we analyzed the relationship between MRPL35, TP53, and BCL2L1 signaling proteins, and we found that COPS5, BAX, and BAD proteins can form a PPI network with MRPL35, TP53, and BCL2L1. Western blot analysis confirmed the intervention effect of 18β-GRA on GC cells, MRPL35, TP53, and BCL2L1 showed dose-dependent up/down-regulation, and the expression of COPS5, BAX, and BAD also increased/decreased with the change of 18β-GRA concentration.

CONCLUSION

18β-GRA can inhibit the proliferation of GC cells by regulating MRPL35, COPS5, TP53, BCL2L1, BAX, and BAD.

18[Formula: see text]-Glycyrrhetinic Acid Inhibits TGF-[Formula: see text]-Induced Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition and Metastasis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Targeting STAT3

18[Formula: see text]-glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) is the active ingredient of the traditional Chinese medicinal herb Glycyrrhizae radix et rhizoma. We previously demonstrated that GA inhibited tumor growth in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the effect of GA on transforming growth factor-[Formula: see text] (TGF-[Formula: see text]-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and metastasis were still unclear. In this study, in vitro transwell assays and immunofluorescence (IF) demonstrated that GA inhibited TGF-[Formula: see text]-induced migration, invasion and EMT of HCC cells. However, it had little effect on the inhibition of proliferation by TGF-[Formula: see text]. Moreover, we confirmed that GA suppressed the metastasis of HCC cells in vivousing an ectopic lung metastasis model. Furthermore, we found that GA inhibited TGF-[Formula: see text]-induced EMT mainly by reducing the phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), which played an essential role in TGF-[Formula: see text]-induced EMT and cell mobility. Mechanistically, GA inhibited the phosphorylation of STAT3 by increasing the expression of Src homology 2 domain-containing protein tyrosine phosphatases 1 and 2 (SHP1 and SHP2). Therefore, we concluded that GA inhibited TGF-[Formula: see text]-induced EMT and metastasis via the SHP1&SHP2/STAT3/Snail pathway. Our data provide an attractive therapeutic target for future multimodal management of HCC.

Circular RNA 0000654 facilitates the growth of gastric cancer cells through absorbing microRNA-149-5p to up-regulate inhibin-beta A

Circular (circ) RNAs are differentially expressed in gastric cancer (GC) and participate in the biological growth of tumor cells. Given that, investigations were performed to unravel the function of circ_0000654 in GC. GC tissue and normal tissue specimens were obtained, in which circ_0000654, microRNA (miR)-149-5p, and inhibin-beta A (INHBA) levels were examined. GC cell line (BGC-823) was transfected to alter circ_0000654 and miR-149-5p expression, thereby observing cell malignancy. Stably-transfected BGC-823 cells were injected into nude mice to observe tumor growth in vivo. The interaction circ_0000654, miR-149-5p, and INHBA was validated. circ_0000654 and INHBA were up-regulated but miR-149-5p was down-regulated in GC. circ_0000654 absorbed miR-149-5p to target INHBA. Silencing circ_0000654inhibited the progress of GC cell biology. Oppositely, restoring circ_0000654 enhanced the growth of GC cells. Inhibiting miR-149-5p rescued down-regulated circ_0000654-induced anti-tumor effect on GC. circ_0000654 silence or miR-149-5p overexpression limited the growth of GC tumors in vivo. Obviously, circ_0000654 facilitates the growth of GC cells through absorbing miR-149-5p to up-regulate INHBA.

Oncopreventive and oncotherapeutic potential of licorice triterpenoid compound glycyrrhizin and its derivatives: Molecular insights

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is a well-known natural herb used to treat different ailments since ancient times. Glycyrrhizin (GL), which is the primary triterpenoid compound of licorice extract, has been known to have broad-spectrum pharmacological effects. GL is cleaved into glucuronide and the aglycone, glycyrrhetinic acid (GA), which exists in two stereoisomeric forms: 18α- and 18β-GA. It is well documented that GL and GA have great potential as anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antiviral, anti-diabetic, antioxidant, and hepatoprotective agents. Studies undertaken during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic suggest that GL is effective at inhibiting the viral replication of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. The anticancer effects of GL and GA involve modulating various signaling pathways, such as the phosphatase and tensin homolog/phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B pathway, the mitogen-activated protein kinase, and the mammalian target of rapamycin/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, which are mainly involved in regulating cancer cell death, oxidative stress, and inflammation. The potential of GL and GA in preventing cancer development and suppressing the growth and invasion of different cancer types has been reviewed in this paper. This review also provides molecular insights on the mechanism of action for the oncopreventive and oncotherapeutic effects of GL and its derivative, GA, which could help develop more specific forms of these agents for clinical use.

Downregulated microRNA-149-3p triggers malignant development and predicts worse prognosis in oral squamous cell carcinoma

OBJECTIVE

Accumulating evidence reveals that aberrant expression of microRNAs contributes to the tumorigenesis and development of diverse human cancers. In the current study, we aimed to evaluate the functional role and prognostic value of miR-149-3p in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

METHODS

Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis was performed to detect the expression of miR-149-3p in 70 OSCC patients (64.10 ± 11.97 years; 31 males and 39 females). The prognostic ability of miR-149-3p in OSCC patients was assessed by Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Transwell assays and cell adhesion assays were used to investigate the impact of miR-149-3p on cell migration and invasion. The regulation of MMP2 expression by miR-149-3p was determined by real-time PCR, western blotting and dual luciferase reporter assay.

RESULTS

Our results revealed a lower level of miR-149-3p in OSCC tissues than in adjacent normal tissues. Downregulation of miR-149-3p was correlated with malignant development and poor outcomes in patients with OSCC. MiR-149-3p repressed the migratory and invasive abilities of OSCC cells. We confirmed that miR-149-3p targeted the 3'-untranslated region of MMP2 mRNA to suppress MMP2 expression. Moreover, the miR-149-3p-mediated decrease in metastasis was reversed by overexpression of MMP2 in OSCC cells.

CONCLUSION

Our findings provide an important molecular mechanism by which miR-149-3p inhibits OSCC cell migration and invasion via negative regulation of MMP2 and implicate miR-149-3p as a prospective biomarker and therapeutic target for OSCC.

miR-149-3p suppressed epithelial-mesenchymal transition and tumor development in acute myeloid leukemia

OBJECTIVE

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a form of primary acute leukemia with high mortality. Our previous study demonstrated that miR-149-3p was down-regulated in chemoresistant acute leukemia cells. However, the biological function of miR-149-3p in AML needs to be further explored.

METHODS

Herein, the expression of miR-149-3p was overexpressed/silenced in U-937 human AML cells via transfection with miR-149-3p agomir/antagomir. The effect of miR-149-3p on U-937-induced tumor growth was investigated using a xenograft nude mouse model.

RESULTS

The results showed that miR-149-3p overexpression inhibited the proliferation and increased the apoptosis of U-937 cells. In addition, miR-149-3p suppressed epithelial-mesenchymal transition in U-937 cells, as demonstrated by the miR-149-3p agomir-induced increase in E-cadherin expression and decrease in vimentin expression. The in vivo experiments demonstrated that miR-149-3p suppressed tumor progression.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the findings revealed the association of miR-149-3p with the development of AML and suggest that miR-149-3p is a potential therapeutic candidate for AML.

Protection function of 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid on rats with high-altitude pulmonary hypertension based on 1H NMR metabonomics technology

18β-Glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) is the triterpenoid aglycone component of glycyrrhizic acid, a natural product of traditional Chinese medicine, and has been proven to possess a variety of pharmacological effects. The protection function and the mechanism of GA on rats with high-altitude pulmonary hypertension (HAPH) are studied using proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) metabonomics technology and biochemical analysis. An HAPH model is established, and 60 male rats are randomly divided into the following groups: Control(normal saline, 0.4 mL/100 g), model (normal saline, 0.4 mL/100 g), Nifedipine (nifedipine, 2.7 mg/kg), and high-, medium-, and low-dose GA groups (100, 50, and 25 mg/kg GA designated as GA.H, GA.M, and GA.L, respectively). Serum biochemical indicators of rats in each group are measured, and pathological changes in the pulmonary artery are observed. 1H NMR metabonomics technology is used for serum analysis. Results show that GA can significantly reduce pulmonary arterial pressure and malondialdehyde levels and increase the glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activities in HAPH rats. Pathological results show that GA can alleviate pulmonary artery injuries of HAPH rats. Metabolomics analytical findings show that GA can alleviate the metabolic disorder of HAPH rats through anti-oxidation and anti-inflammatory effects, improve their bodies' ability to resist hypoxia, and restore various metabolic pathways (energy metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and lipid metabolism). GA has potential therapeutic effects on HAPH rats, but its target needs to be further studied.

Identification of key molecules in recurrent miscarriage based on bioinformatics analysis

BACKGROUND

Recurrent miscarriage (RM) affects 1% to 5% of couples, and the mechanisms still stay unclear. In this study, we explored the underlying molecular mechanism and potential molecular biomarkers of RM as well as constructed a miRNA-mRNA regulation network.

METHODS

The microarray datasets GSE73025 and GSE22490, which represent mRNA and miRNA profiles, respectively, were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with p-value < 0.05 and fold-change > 2 were identified while the miRNAs with p-value < 0.05 and fold-change > 1.3 were considered as significant differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs).

RESULTS

A total of 373 DEGs, including 218 up-regulated genes and 155 down-regulated genes, were identified, while 138 up-regulated and 68 down-regulated DEMs were screened out. After functional enrichment analysis, we found GO biological process (BP) terms significantly enriched in the Fc-gamma receptor signaling pathway involved in phagocytosis. Moreover, signaling pathway analyses indicated that the neurotrophin signaling pathway (hsa04722) was the top KEGG enrichment. 6 hub genes (FPR1, C5AR1, CCR1, ADCY7, CXCR2, NPY) were screened out to construct a complex regulation network in RM because they had the highest degree of affecting the network. Besides, we constructed miRNA-mRNA network between DEMs target genes and DEGs in RM, including hsa-miR-1297- KLHL24 and hsa-miR-548a-5p-KLHL24 pairs.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, the novel differentially expressed molecules in the present study could provide a new sight to explore the pathogenesis of RM as well as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for RM diagnosis and treatment.

Downregulating circRNA_0044516 Inhibits Cell Proliferation in Gastric Cancer Through miR-149/Wnt1/β-catenin Pathway

BACKGROUND

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play important roles in the progression of gastric cancer (GC). The Wnt1/β-catenin pathway can promote the proliferation of GC cells. This study aimed to explore whether circRNA_0044516 can regulate the proliferation of GC cells by modulating the Wnt1/β-catenin pathway.

METHODS

The expression of circRNA_0044516, miR-149, Wnt1, and β-catenin in GC tissues or cells was detected by qRT-PCR and western blot. Cell viability and apoptosis were measured by CCK-8 and flow cytometry assays, respectively. The interaction between circRNA_0044516 and miR-149 was determined by luciferase reporter and RNA pull-down assays.

RESULTS

Upregulated circRNA_0044516 was found in GC tissues and cell lines. Downregulating circRNA_0044516 inhibited the viability and promoted apoptosis of GC cells. CircRNA_0044516 targeted miR-149, and its downregulation elevated miR-149 level in GC cells. Mechanistically, silencing circRNA_0044516 reduced the protein level of Wnt1 and β-catenin through miR-149, and finally suppressed viability and contributed to apoptosis of GC cells. Moreover, circRNA_0044516 knockdown inhibited the tumor growth of HGC-27 cells in nude mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicated an important role of circRNA_0044516 in GC and elucidated that downregulation of circRNA_0044516 inhibits the proliferation of GC cells through miR-149/Wnt1/β-catenin.

Soloxolone methyl, as a 18βH-glycyrrhetinic acid derivate, may result in endoplasmic reticulum stress to induce apoptosis in breast cancer cells

Being one of the leading causes of cancer death among women, various chemotherapeutic agents isolated from natural compounds are used in breast cancer treatment and consequently studies to develop new drugs still continue. There are several studies on 18βH-glycyrrhetinic acid, a secondary metabolite which is found in Glycyrrhiza glabra (liquorice roots), as a potential anticancer agent. In this study, the cytotoxic and apoptotic effects of Soloxolone methyl compound, a semisynthetic derivative of 18βH-glycyrrhetinic acid were investigated on breast cancer cells (MCF-7, MDA-MBA-231). Soloxolone methyl is found to be cytotoxic on both MCF-7 and MDA-MBA-231 breast cancer cells by inducing apoptosis. Especially in MDA-MB-231 cells apoptosis is detected to be triggered by ER stress. The antigrowth effects of Soloxolone methyl were determined using MTT and ATP assays. To identify the mode of cell death (apoptosis/necrosis), fluorescent staining (Hoechst 33342 and Propidium iodide) and caspase-cleaved cytokeratin 18 (M30-antigen) analyses were used. In addition, apoptosis was investigated on gene and protein levels by PCR and Western Blotting. Soloxolone methyl decreased cell viability on cells in a dose and time-dependent manner and induced apoptosis markers. An increase on apoptotic proteins related to endoplasmic reticulum stress (IRE1-α, Bip, CHOP) was also determined in MDA-MB-231 cells. Moreover, an increase of apoptotic gene expressions was determined in both cells treated with Soloxolone methyl. Advance analyses should be performed to elucidate the potential of Soloxolone methyl as an anticancer agent in breast cancer treatment.

Connexins in Cancer: Jekyll or Hyde?

The expression, localization, and function of connexins, the protein subunits that comprise gap junctions, are often altered in cancer. In addition to cell-cell coupling through gap junction channels, connexins also form hemichannels that allow communication between the cell and the extracellular space and perform non-junctional intracellular activities. Historically, connexins have been considered tumor suppressors; however, they can also serve tumor-promoting functions in some contexts. Here, we review the literature surrounding connexins in cancer cells in terms of specific connexin functions and propose that connexins function upstream of most, if not all, of the hallmarks of cancer. The development of advanced connexin targeting approaches remains an opportunity for the field to further interrogate the role of connexins in cancer phenotypes, particularly through the use of in vivo models. More specific modulators of connexin function will both help elucidate the functions of connexins in cancer and advance connexin-specific therapies in the clinic.

MicroRNA-149: A review of its role in digestive system cancers

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a group of highly conserved, short (18-25 nucleotide long) non-coding RNAs which play important functional roles in cellular differentiation, biological development, pathogenesis and disease susceptibility and have been linked to both tumorigenesis and the malignant progression of various cancers. miRNAs primarily exert their function through the negative regulation of their target gene's transcription via the specific recognition of their 3' untranslated region. A single miRNA can regulate multiple target genes and most miRNAs are controlled by several factors. Recent studies have shown that microRNA-149 (miR-149) plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of digestive system cancers and may act as a potential diagnostic marker and therapeutic target. In this review, we summarize and discuss the most recent reports describing miR-149 in digestive system cancers, including its single nucleotide polymorphisms, expression levels, target genes, drug sensitivity and clinical significance.

The long non-coding RNA HOXA11-AS promotes epithelial mesenchymal transition by sponging miR-149-3p in Colorectal Cancer

Background: Metastasis is the primary cause of death in colorectal cancer (CRC); the underlying mechanisms remain partly unknown. In this study, we aim to investigate the value of HOXA11-AS in survival evaluation and the potential role of HOXA11-AS/miR-149-3p axis in the CRC metastasis.

Methods: The expressions of HOXA11-AS, both in obtained CRC samples and adjacent noncancerous tissues, were analyzed in survival evaluation. Competing endogenous RNAs (CeRNAs) Analysis were employed to reveal the potential relationship between HOXA11-AS and miR-149-3p. It was further confirmed by Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Dual-luciferase reporter assay. Migration and invasion assay were used to verify the potential role of HOXA11-AS and miR-149-3p in the regulation of CRC metastasis. The potential pathway was explored by Western blot analysis.

Results: The expression of HOXA11-AS in the CRC tissue is significantly higher than the expression in adjacent noncancerous tissue (p<0.0001). High expressions of HOXA11-AS were noticeably correlated with clinicopathologic characteristics including advanced clinical stage (p=0.021), larger tumor size (p<0.001) and frequent tumor recurrence (p=0.001). The overall survival in HOXA11-AS-High group was significantly shorter than the HOXA11-AS-Low group (p<0.001). Advanced clinical stage, tumor size and high expression of HOXA11-AS were showed as independent prognostic prediction factors for the 5-year tumor relapse of CRC patients (p<0.001). HOXA11-AS acts as a potential molecular sponge for miR-149-3p, in the promotion of CRC metastasis. In the miR-149-3p mimic-treated group, the expression of E-cadherin was increased, whereas the expression of N-cadherin, Snail, Slug, TGF-β1, Wnt2b, Twist and C/EBPβ was decreased.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates that high expression of HOXA11-AS is correlated with CRC progression and poor prognosis and may promote metastasis via EMT by modulating miR-149-3p.

Transcriptional suppression of androgen receptor by 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid in LNCaP human prostate cancer cells

Androgen receptor (AR) plays a pivotal role as a target for amplification/mutation in pathogenesis and tumor progression in prostate, and thus, controlling AR activity or expression might be a feasible therapeutic approach for the treatment of prostate cancer. Here, we report the novel mechanisms by which 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) targets AR to stimulate cell death in both hormone-responsive and -refractory prostate cancer cells. We found that miR-488, a tumor suppressive microRNA, was markedly induced by GA treatment, resulting in the down-regulation of AR expression and inhibition of cellular responses mediated by androgens. Moreover, GA not only suppressed the expression of androgen target genes (TMPRSS2, PSA, and NKX3.1), but also enhanced the suppressive effect of anti-androgens (bicalutamide and flutamide) on LNCaP cell growth. Our data further provides evidence that down-regulation of AR expression by GA may occur through transcriptional suppression at AR promoter region between - 1014 and - 829. Ectopic expression of SFR and E2F3α reversed the inhibitory effect of GA on AR promoter activity as well as protein expression, suggesting that GA may target transcription factors SRF and E2F3α to regulate AR expression. Taken together, our study provides new insights on AR regulation and GA as a potential therapeutic candidate for human prostate cancer.

Wnt-regulating microRNAs role in gastric cancer malignancy

Gastric cancer (GC) is responsible for high morbidity and mortality worldwide. This cancer claims fifth place among other cancers. There are a number of factors associated with GC development such as alcohol consumption and tobacco smoking. It seems that genetic factors play significant role in GC malignancy and progression. MicroRNAs (miRs) are short non-coding RNA molecules with negative impact on the expression of target genes. A variety of studies have elucidated the potential role of miRs in GC growth. Investigation of molecular pathways has revealed that miRs function as upstream modulators of Wnt signaling pathway. This signaling pathway involves in important biological processes such as cell proliferation and differentiation, and its dysregulation is associated with GC invasion. At the present review, we demonstrate that how miRs regulate Wnt signaling pathway in GC malignancy.

Reactivation of Atp4a concomitant with intragenic DNA demethylation for cancer inhibition in a gastric cancer model

Accumulating evidence suggests that aberrant DNA methylation and gene silencing of tumor suppressors are pervasive in gastric malignancies, supporting reactivation of tumor suppressors through DNA demethylation as a potential therapeutic opportunity. Atp4a is an important tumor suppressor gene, encoding H⁺, K⁺-ATPase, and mediating gastric acid secretion in the stomach. Using transgenic gastric cancer model K19-Wnt1/C2mE (Gan) mice, by combining the transcriptome and MeDIP (methylated DNA immunoprecipitation) sequencing, together with qRT-PCR, we showed that Atp4a was expressed at low levels in tumor tissues and multiple GC cells, while both 5-aza-CdR and 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid (GRA) pharmacological treatment triggered Atp4a activation with downregulation of DNMT1. In addition, CpG island (CGI) search showed that the CpG rich region is absent in the promoter region but present in exons 9-14 of Atp4a. Methylation specific PCR (MSP) indicated that Atp4a was fully or partly methylated in multiple GC cells. Further MassArray suggested that the demethylation in the CpG site 75, 183, 196, 262-268 might be responsible for the reactivation of Atp4a. Our research identified that GRA, a bioactive component found in abundance in Radix Glycyrrhiza, reactivated Atp4a expression and inhibited gastric tumorigenesis as a potential demethylation agent.

18β-glycyrrhetinic acid inhibited mitochondrial energy metabolism and gastric carcinogenesis through methylation-regulated TLR2 signaling pathway

The natural phenolic substance, 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid (GRA), has shown enormous potential in the chemoprevention of cancers with rich resources and biological safety, but the GRA-regulated genetic and epigenetic profiles are unclear. Deregulated mitochondrial cellular energetics supporting higher adenosine triphosphate provisions relative to the uncontrolled proliferation of cancer cells is a cancer hallmark. The Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) signaling pathway has emerged as a key molecular component in gastric cancer (GC) cell proliferation and epithelial homeostasis. However, whether TLR2 influenced GC cell energy metabolism and whether the inhibition effects of GRA on GC relied on TLR2 signaling were not illustrated. In the present study, TLR2 mRNA and protein expression levels were elevated in gastric tumors in the K19-Wnt1/C2mE (Gan) mice model, GC cell lines and human GCs, and the overexpression of TLR2 was correlated with the high histological grade and was a poor prognostic factor in GC patients. Further gain and loss of function showed that TLR2 activation induced GC cell proliferation and promoted reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, Ca2+ accumulation, oxidative phosphorylation and the electron transport chain, while blocking TLR2 inhibited mitochondrial function and energy metabolism. Furthermore, GRA pretreatment inhibited TLR2-activated GC cell proliferation, energy metabolism and carcinogenesis. In addition, expression of TLR2 was found to be downregulated by GRA through methylation regulation. Collectively, the results demonstrated that GRA inhibited gastric tumorigenesis through TLR2-accelerated energy metabolism, suggesting GRA as a promising therapeutic agency targeting TLR2 signaling in GC.

Upregulation Of miR-149-3p Suppresses Spinal Chordoma Malignancy By Targeting Smad3

Purpose

Dysregulation of miRNAs plays an important role in the malignancy of different tumors including chordoma. Expression of miR-149-3p was earlier reported to be downregulated in chordoma tissue. However, its biological role remains to be unrevealed in chordoma, especially in spinal chordoma.

Methods

Expression of miR-149-3p and Smad3 was detected by RT-qPCR and Western blot. Chordoma malignancy was evaluated by cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis using MTT assay, transwell assay, flow cytometry analyzing apoptosis rate, and Western blot-determined expression of Bcl-2, Bax, and cleaved caspase 3, respectively. The target binding between miR-149-3p and Smad3 was predicted by TargetScan Human website and confirmed by luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation. Xenograft tumors were generated, and expression of miR-149-3p and Smad3 was investigated in vivo.

Results

miR-149-3p was downregulated in spinal chordoma tissues and cells, and its overexpression promoted chordoma cell apoptosis and inhibited proliferation, migration, and invasion in U-CH1 and MUG-Chor1 cells. Unexpectedly, Smad3 was a downstream target of miR-149-3p and negatively correlated with miR-149-3p expression in chordoma tissues. Besides, Smad3 was upregulated in chordoma tissues and its silencing had a similar effect as miR-149-3p overexpression in U-CH1 and MUG-Chor1 cells. Moreover, Smad3 upregulation could partially reverse the tumor-suppressive effect of miR-149-3p in chordoma cells. In vivo, the tumorigenesis of U-CH1 and MUG-Chor1 cells was impaired by upregulated miR-149-3p through decreasing Smad3 expression.

Conclusion

miR-149-3p could serve as a tumor suppressor in spinal chordoma through targeting and downregulating Smad3.

Dichloroacetate restores colorectal cancer chemosensitivity through the p53/miR-149-3p/PDK2-mediated glucose metabolic pathway

The development of chemoresistance remains a major challenge that accounts for colorectal cancer (CRC) lethality. Dichloroacetate (DCA) was originally used as a metabolic regulator in the treatment of metabolic diseases; here, DCA was assayed to identify the mechanisms underlying the chemoresistance of CRC. We found that DCA markedly enhanced chemosensitivity of CRC cells to fluorouracil (5-FU), and reduced the colony formation due to high levels of apoptosis. Using the microarray assay, we noted that miR-149-3p was involved in the chemoresistance of CRC, which was modulated by wild-type p53 after DCA treatment. In addition, PDK2 was identified as a direct target of miR-149-3p. Mechanistic analyses showed that overexpression of miR-149-3p enhanced 5-FU-induced apoptosis and reduced glucose metabolism, similar to the effects of PDK2 knockdown. In addition, overexpression of PDK2 partially reversed the inhibitory effect of miR-149-3p on glucose metabolism. Finally, both DCA treatment and miR-149-3p overexpression in 5-FU-resistant CRC cells were found to markedly sensitize the chemotherapeutic effect of 5-FU in vivo, and this effect was also validated in a small retrospective cohort of CRC patients. Taken together, we determined that the p53/miR-149-3p/PDK2 signaling pathway can potentially be targeted with DCA treatment to overcome chemoresistant CRC.

ZEB1-AS1 initiates a miRNA-mediated ceRNA network to facilitate gastric cancer progression

Background

Currently, cancer-related competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks are attracting significant interest. As long noncoding RNA ZEB1-AS1 has been reported to function as an oncogene due to sponging microRNAs (miRNAs) in several cancers, we hypothesized that it could interact with specific miRNAs to form regulatory networks and facilitate the growth of gastric cancer (GC).

Methods

MiRNAs interacting with ZEB1-AS1 were screened for and selected by bioinformatics analysis. Overexpression or repression of ZEB1-AS1 was performed to determine whether it could regulate selected miRNAs. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reactions (qPCR) validated the expression profiles of ZEB1-AS1 and miR-149-3p in GC cell lines and tissue. Statistical analysis determined the clinical significance of ZEB1-AS1 in relation to miR-149-3p. Cell counting, wound healing and transwell assays were performed to assess cell proliferation, migration and invasion. A luciferase reporter assay was utilized to confirm the putative miR-149-3p-binding sites in ZEB1-AS1.

Results

Briefly, bioinformatics analysis inferred that ZEB1-AS1 interacts with miR-204, miR-610, and miR-149. Gain- or loss-of function assays suggested that ZEB1-AS1 negatively regulates miR-149-3p, miR-204-5p and miR-610 in GC cells. Validated by qPCR, ZEB1-AS1 was up-regulated and miR-149-3p down-regulated in GC cells and tissue. Data analyses indicated that ZEB1-AS1 and miR-149-3p are associated with the independent diagnosis and prognosis of GC. Functional assays support the theory that miR-149-3p hinders GC proliferation, migration and invasion, whereas its overexpression abrogates the corresponding effects induced by ZEB1-AS1. Lastly, dissection of the molecular mechanisms involved indicated that ZEB1-AS1 can regulate GC partly via a ZEB1-AS1/miR-149-3p axis.

Conclusions

ZEB1-AS1 can interact with specific miRNAs, forming a miRNA-mediated ceRNA network and promoting GC progress, partly through a ZEB1-AS1/miR-149-3p axis.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12935-019-0742-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Characterizing the landscape of peritoneal exosomal microRNAs in patients with ovarian cancer by high-throughput sequencing

In the present study, differentially expressed microRNAs (miRNAs) in peritoneal exosomes that were isolated from 10 patients with epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) with metastasis in the abdominal cavity and 10 participants without cancer (NC) were identified. These differentially expressed miRNAs that were revealed by next-generation sequencing were categorized by Gene Ontology enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analysis of their target genes. Notably, two miRNAs that were associated with EOC-miR-149-3p and miR-222-5p-were identified. There were significant differences in expression of miR-149-3p and miR-222-5p between EOC and NC samples, and the effect of the expression level of the two miRNAs on the patient survival was identified using publicly available data from The Cancer Genome Atlas. There is an association between these two miRNAs and EOC, that was further verified by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction in peritoneal exosomes from 10 patients with EOC and NC participants. These results indicated that miR-149-3p and miR-222-5p might be novel biomarkers for evaluating the prognosis of patients with EOC and that these two miRNAs might have potential therapeutic values.

Network analyses-based identification of circular ribonucleic acid-related pathways in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma

Circular ribonucleic acids are non-coding ribonucleic acids that can be identified from genome sequencing studies. Although they can be readily detected, their regulation and functional role in human diseases such as cancer are unknown. Using a systematic approach, we analyzed ribonucleic acid-sequencing data from a well-characterized cohort of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma to identify genetic pathways related to circular ribonucleic acids. Although the expression of most circular ribonucleic acids was similar in both the cancer and non-cancer tissues, expression of circ2174 was significantly increased in cancer tissues. Network analysis of co-related genes identified several pathways associated with circ2174, and common regulatory mediators between genes in these pathways and circ2174. Among these, alterations in several genes involved in interleukin-16 signaling responses such Lck, interleukin-16, and macrophage inflammatory protein-1-beta were the most prominent. Octamer transcription factor (Oct)-2 was identified as a signal transducer that was common to both circ2174 and interleukin-16. Circ2174 has sequence complementarity to miR149 which can target Oct-2. These data suggest a mechanism whereby circ2174 can act as a sponge to regulate the expression of miR149, and thereby modulate Oct-2 and interleukin-16 signaling pathways in cholangiocarcinoma.

microRNA-205-5p is a modulator of insulin sensitivity that inhibits FOXO function

Objectives

Hepatic insulin resistance is a hallmark of type 2 diabetes and obesity. Insulin receptor signaling through AKT and FOXO has important metabolic effects that have traditionally been ascribed to regulation of gene expression. However, whether all the metabolic effects of FOXO arise from its regulation of protein-encoding mRNAs is unknown.

Methods

To address this question, we obtained expression profiles of FOXO-regulated murine hepatic microRNAs (miRNAs) during fasting and refeeding using mice lacking Foxo1, 3a, and 4 in liver (L-Foxo1,3a, 4).

Results

Out of 439 miRNA analyzed, 175 were differentially expressed in Foxo knockouts. Their functions were associated with insulin, Wnt, Mapk signaling, and aging. Among them, we report a striking increase of miR-205-5p expression in L-Foxo1,3a,4 knockouts, as well as in obese mice. We show that miR-205-5p gain-of-function increases AKT phosphorylation and decreases SHIP2 in primary hepatocytes, resulting in FOXO inhibition. This results in decreased hepatocyte glucose production. Consistent with these observations, miR-205-5p gain-of-function in mice lowered glucose levels and improved pyruvate tolerance.

Conclusions

These findings reveal a homeostatic miRNA loop regulating insulin signaling, with potential implications for in vivo glucose metabolism.

•

A comprehensive analysis of Foxo-dependent miRNA.

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miRNAs recapitulate the transcriptional effects of Foxo on insulin signaling.

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Foxo regulates miRNA transcription during the fasting/refeeding transition.

•

miR205 regulates insulin sensitivity through a homeostatic loop with Foxo.

Regulation and functions of MicroRNA-149 in human cancers

MicroRNAs are small non-coding RNAs that play critical roles in the regulatory mechanisms involving cell differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis and tumorigenesis. Recent research efforts have been conducted to apply these discoveries into clinical functions, including the early diagnosis and therapeutic outcome of patients with cancer. Previous studies have shown that microRNA-149 (miR-149) is dysregulated in various human cancers and exerts its effects on tumorigenesis and tumour progression. In this review, we summarized the potential roles of miR-149 dysregulation and its target genes during tumorigenesis and clinical treatment of human cancers.

Cell-autonomous and cell non-autonomous downregulation of tumor suppressor DAB2IP by microRNA-149-3p promotes aggressiveness of cancer cells

The tumor suppressor DAB2IP contributes to modulate the network of information established between cancer cells and tumor microenvironment. Epigenetic and post-transcriptional inactivation of this protein is commonly observed in multiple human malignancies, and can potentially favor progression of tumors driven by a variety of genetic mutations. Performing a high-throughput screening of a large collection of human microRNA mimics, we identified miR-149-3p as a negative post-transcriptional modulator of DAB2IP. By efficiently downregulating DAB2IP, this miRNA enhances cancer cell motility and invasiveness, facilitating activation of NF-kB signaling and promoting expression of pro-inflammatory and pro-angiogenic factors. In addition, we found that miR-149-3p secreted by prostate cancer cells induces DAB2IP downregulation in recipient vascular endothelial cells, stimulating their proliferation and motility, thus potentially remodeling the tumor microenvironment. Finally, we found that inhibition of endogenous miR-149-3p restores DAB2IP activity and efficiently reduces tumor growth and dissemination of malignant cells. These observations suggest that miR-149-3p can promote cancer progression via coordinated inhibition of DAB2IP in tumor cells and in stromal cells.

MicroRNA-149 suppresses the proliferation and increases the sensitivity of ovarian cancer cells to cisplatin by targeting X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis

Currently, ovarian cancer is identified as one of the leading causes of cancer-associated mortality in females. Despite numerous efforts that were made on developing novel treatments for ovarian cancer, the survival rate remains unsatisfactory. Considering the important regulatory role of miRNAs in different types of cancer, the present study aims to identify a novel therapeutic target for treatment of ovarian cancer. The expression of miR-149 was detected using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction in cancerous and normal cells. Furthermore, the effects of miR-149 on ovarian cancer cell activities were investigated using MTT assay, colony formation, flow cytometry and western blotting analysis. In the present study, it was revealed that microRNA (miR)-149 was significantly downregulated in ovarian cancer tissues and cell lines, and that the miR-149 expression was correlated with the patient prognosis. In addition, it was observed that forced expression of miR-149 increased the sensitivity of ovarian cancer cell to cisplatin. Based on bioinformatics analysis and luciferase assay, X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis (XIAP) was identified as a direct target gene of miR-149 in ovarian cancer cells. It was also demonstrated that XIAP expression was upregulated in the ovarian cancer tissues and cell lines, while it was negatively correlated with miR-149 in these tissues and cells. Furthermore, results revealed that ectopic expression of XIAP was able to abolish the miR-149-enhanced cell sensitivity to cisplatin. In conclusion, the present study revealed that miR-149 functioned as a tumor suppressor in the progression of ovarian cancer, increasing the sensitivity of ovarian cancer cells to cisplatin treatment.

The protective effects of 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid against inflammation microenvironment in gastric tumorigenesis targeting PGE2-EP2 receptor-mediated arachidonic acid pathway

Accumulating epidemiological and clinical evidence shows that inflammation is an important risk factor for gastrointestinal diseases. Glycyrrhiza glabra, a traditional Chinese medicine, has been shown to safely suppress gastric cancer; however, the anti-inflammatory mechanisms in gastric tumorigenesis have been poorly investigated. Therefore, this study is committed to demonstrate the in vivo anti-inflammatory effect of 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid (GRA), the main active component of G. glabra. The lymphocytes and macrophages were heavily infiltrated in the transgenic mice that highly expressed cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 and microsomal prostaglandin E synthase (mPGES)-1; however, a significant reduction was observed after treatment with GRA. In addition, GRA downregulated the protein levels of COX-2, GαS, EP2, and β-catenin, which were involved in the arachidonic acid pathway. In conclusion, our study showed the potential protective effects of GRA against inflammatory environment that might be involved in gastric tumorigenesis in vivo through the PGE2-EP2 receptor-mediated arachidonic acid pathway.

miR-149 in Human Cancer: A Systemic Review

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs that regulate post-transcriptional gene expression via binding to the 3'-untranslated region (3'-UTR) of targeted mRNAs. They are reported to play important roles in tumorigenesis and progression of various cancers. Among them, miR-149 was confirmed to be aberrantly regulated in various tumors. In this review, we provide a complex overview of miR-149, particularly summarize the critical roles of it in cancers and expect to lay the foundation for future works on this important microRNA.

Targeting of GIT1 by miR-149* in breast cancer suppresses cell proliferation and metastasis in vitro and tumor growth in vivo

Breast cancer remains a major cause of cancer-related death in women worldwide. Dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) is involved in the initiation and progression of breast cancer. Moreover, it was found that GIT1 was widely involved in the development of many human cancers. Herein, we aimed to investigate the expression changes of miR-149* and GIT1 and the functional effects of miR-149*/GIT1 link in breast cancer. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blot (WB) were used to examine the expression levels of miR-149* and GIT1. Dual luciferase reporter assay was utilized to confirm the target interaction between miR-149* and GIT1. The biological functions, including cell proliferation, invasion, and migration, of miR-149* and GIT1 were determined by MTT assay and Transwell assays, respectively. Eventually, the tumor xenograft model in nude mice injected with stable transfected MDA-MB-231 cells was established to verify the effects of miR-149* and GIT1 on tumor growth. Our results showed that miR-149* expression was decreased, whereas GIT1 expression was increased in clinical samples of breast cancer. Based on the inverse expression trend between miR-149* and GIT1, we further demonstrated that miR-149* indeed directly targets GIT1. Subsequently, it was observed that inhibition of miR-149* significantly promoted cell proliferation, invasion, and migration, but the ability of cell proliferation, invasion, and migration was obviously declined after silencing of GIT1 in MDA-MB-231 cells transfected with miR-149* mimic and/or si-GIT1. Finally, it was also found that elevated miR-149* decelerated the tumor growth, while restored GIT1 accelerated the tumor growth in nude mice after 35 days of tumor xenograft. Collectively, these findings concluded that miR-149* might exert a tumor suppressive role in breast cancer by targeting GIT1.

Inhibitors of connexin and pannexin channels as potential therapeutics

While gap junctions support the exchange of a number of molecules between neighboring cells, connexin hemichannels provide communication between the cytosol and the extracellular environment of an individual cell. The latter equally holds true for channels composed of pannexin proteins, which display an architecture reminiscent of connexin hemichannels. In physiological conditions, gap junctions are usually open, while connexin hemichannels and, to a lesser extent, pannexin channels are typically closed, yet they can be activated by a number of pathological triggers. Several agents are available to inhibit channels built up by connexin and pannexin proteins, including alcoholic substances, glycyrrhetinic acid, anesthetics and fatty acids. These compounds not always strictly distinguish between gap junctions, connexin hemichannels and pannexin channels, and may have effects on other targets as well. An exception lies with mimetic peptides, which reproduce specific amino acid sequences in connexin or pannexin primary protein structure. In this paper, a state-of-the-art overview is provided on inhibitors of cellular channels consisting of connexins and pannexins with specific focus on their mode-of-action and therapeutic potential.

Expression of miR-149-3p inhibits proliferation, migration, and invasion of bladder cancer by targeting S100A4

MicroRNAs play key roles during various crucial cell processes, such as proliferation, migration, and invasion. In addition, microRNAs have been shown to possess oncogenic and tumor suppressive functions in human cancers. Increasing evidence has clarified that miR-149-3p, a novel cancer-related microRNA, plays an important role in suppression of proliferation, migration, and invasion; however, the effect and mechanisms underlying the miR-149-3p effect in bladder cancer (BCa) remain unclear. In the current study we found that the increased expression of miR-149-3p significantly suppressed cell proliferation, migration, and invasion ability in BCa. The suppressive effect was related to S100A4. A further investigation showed that miR-149-3p negatively regulated S100A4, as verified by the luciferase reporter assay. Furthermore, our study showed that S100A4 mediated the anti-metastatic effects of miR-149-3p on proliferation, migration, and invasion of BCa cells. Analysis of a xenograft mouse model showed that miR-149-3p expression significantly decreased tumor growth by targeting S100A4. Taken together, these data indicate that S100A4 promotes cell growth, migration, and invasion and can by reversed by miR-149-3p in BCa.

Dual Strands of Pre-miR-149 Inhibit Cancer Cell Migration and Invasion through Targeting FOXM1 in Renal Cell Carcinoma

Our recent studies revealed that dual strands of certain pre-microRNAs, e.g., pre-miR-144, pre-miR-145, and pre-miR-150, act as antitumor microRNAs (miRNAs) in several cancers. The involvement of passenger strands of miRNAs in cancer pathogenesis is a novel concept in miRNA research. The analysis of a miRNA expression signature in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) has revealed that the guide strand of pre-miR-149 is significantly downregulated in cancer tissues. The aims of this study were to investigate the functional significance of miR-149’s guide strand (miR-149-5p) and passenger strand (miR-149-3p), and to identify the oncogenic genes regulated by these miRNAs in ccRCC cells. The ectopic expression of these miRNAs significantly inhibited cancer cell migration and invasion in ccRCC cells. Forkhead box protein M1 (FOXM1) was directly regulated by miR-149-5p and miR-149-3p in ccRCC cells. Knockdown studies using si-FOXM1 showed that the expression of FOXM1 enhanced RCC cell aggressiveness. Interestingly, the analysis of a large number of patients in the The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database (n = 260) demonstrated that patients with high FOXM1 expression had significantly shorter survival than did those with low FOXM1 expression (p = 1.5 × 10⁻⁶). Taken together, dual strands of pre-miR-149 (miR-149-5p and miR-149-3p) acted as antitumor miRNAs through the targeting of FOXM1 in ccRCC cells.

Anti-inflammatory effects of millet bran derived-bound polyphenols in LPS-induced HT-29 cell via ROS/miR-149/Akt/NF-κB signaling pathway

The pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory maladjustment has been acknowledged as one of the chief causations of inflammatory diseases and even cancers. Previous studies showed that plant-derived polyphenolic compounds were the most potent anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory agents among all natural compounds. The present study indicates that bound polyphenols of inner shell (BPIS) from foxtail millet bran can display anti-inflammatory effects in LPS-induced HT-29 cells and in nude mice. Mechanistically, BPIS restrained the level of various pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8), and enhanced the expression level of anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-10) by blocking the nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB)-p65 nuclear translocation. Further, we found the elevated miR-149 expression by BPIS-induced ROS accumulation, directly targeted the Akt expression to block NF-κB nuclear translocation. Taken together, these novel findings provide new insights into the development of BPIS as an anti-inflammatory agent via the signaling cascade of ROS/miR-149/Akt/NF-κB axis.