TIMP-1 downregulation modulates miR-125a-5p expression and triggers the apoptotic pathway

TIMP-1 Promotes Expression of MCP-1 and Macrophage Migration by Inducing Fli-1 in Experimental Liver Fibrosis

Background and Aims

Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) plays a role in the excessive generation of extracellular matrix in liver fibrosis. This study aimed to explore the pathways through which TIMP-1 controls monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) expression and promotes hepatic macrophage recruitment.

Methods

Liver fibrosis was triggered through carbon tetrachloride, and an adeno-associated virus containing small interfering RNA targeting TIMP-1 (siRNA-TIMP-1) was administered to both rats and mice. We assessed the extent of fibrosis and macrophage recruitment. The molecular mechanisms regulating macrophage recruitment by TIMP-1 were investigated through transwell migration assays, luciferase reporter assays, the use of pharmacological modulators, and an analysis of extracellular vesicles (EVs).

Results

siRNA-TIMP-1 alleviated carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis, reducing macrophage migration and MCP-1 expression. Co-culturing macrophages with hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) post-TIMP-1 downregulation inhibited macrophage migration. In siRNA-TIMP-1-treated HSCs, microRNA-145 (miRNA-145) expression increased, while the expression of Friend leukemia virus integration-1 (Fli-1) and MCP-1 was inhibited. Downregulation of Fli-1 led to decreased MCP-1 expression, whereas Fli-1 overexpression increased MCP-1 expression within HSCs. Transfection with miRNA-145 mimics reduced the expression of both Fli-1 and MCP-1, while miRNA-145 inhibitors elevated the expression of both Fli-1 and MCP-1 in HSCs. miRNA-145 bound directly to the 3'-UTR of Fli-1, and miRNA-145-enriched EVs secreted by HSCs after TIMP-1 downregulation influenced macrophage recruitment.

Conclusions

TIMP-1 induces Fli-1 expression through miRNA-145, subsequently increasing MCP-1 expression and macrophage recruitment. MiRNA-145-enriched EVs from HSCs can transmit biological information and magnify the function of TIMP-1.

Maladaptive response following glucose overload in GLUT4-overexpressing H9C2 cardiomyoblasts

BACKGROUND

Glucose overload drives diabetic cardiomyopathy by affecting the tricarboxylic acid pathway. However, it is still unknown how cells could overcome massive chronic glucose influx on cellular and structural level.

METHODS/MATERIALS

Expression profiles of hyperglycemic, glucose transporter-4 (GLUT4) overexpressing H9C2 (KE2) cardiomyoblasts loaded with 30 mM glucose (KE230L) and wild type (WT) cardiomyoblasts loaded with 30 mM glucose (WT30L) were compared using proteomics, real-time polymerase quantitative chain reaction analysis, or Western blotting, and immunocytochemistry.

RESULTS

The findings suggest that hyperglycemic insulin-sensitive cells at the onset of diabetic cardiomyopathy present complex changes in levels of structural cell-related proteins like tissue inhibitor of metalloproteases-1 (1.3 fold), intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (1.8 fold), type-IV-collagen (3.2 fold), chaperones (Glucose-Regulated Protein 78: 1.8 fold), autophagy (Autophagosome Proteins LC3A, LC3B: 1.3 fold), and in unfolded protein response (UPR; activating transcription factor 6α expression: 2.3 fold and processing: 2.4 fold). Increased f-actin levels were detectable with glucose overload by immnocytochemistry. Effects on energy balance (1.6 fold), sirtuin expression profile (Sirtuin 1: 0.7 fold, sirtuin 3: 1.9 fold, and sirtuin 6: 4.2 fold), and antioxidant enzymes (Catalase: 0.8 fold and Superoxide dismutase 2: 1.5 fold) were detected.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, these findings implicate induction of chronic cell distress by sustained glucose accumulation with a non-compensatory repair reaction not preventing final cell death. This might explain the chronic long lasting pathogenesis observed in developing heart failure in diabetes mellitus.

MicroRNA‑mediated regulation in lung adenocarcinoma: Signaling pathways and potential therapeutic implications (Review)

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) poses a significant global health burden owing to its high incidence rate and unfavorable prognosis, driven by frequent recurrence and drug resistance. Understanding the biological mechanisms underlying LUAD is imperative to developing advanced therapeutic strategies. Recent research has highlighted the role of dysregulated microRNAs (miRNAs) in LUAD progression through diverse signaling pathways, including the Wnt and AKT pathways. Of particular interest is the novel pathological mechanism involving the interaction between competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) and miRNAs. This review critically analyzed the impact of aberrant miRNA expression on LUAD development, shedding light on the associated signaling pathways. It also highlighted the emerging significance of ceRNA‑miRNA interactions in LUAD pathogenesis. Elucidating the intricate regulatory networks involving miRNAs and ceRNAs presents a promising avenue for the development of potential therapeutic interventions and diagnostic biomarkers in LUAD. Further research in this area is essential to advance precision medicine approaches and improve patient outcomes.

Role of Necroptosis in Intervertebral Disc Degeneration

Apoptosis has historically been considered the primary form of programmed cell death (PCD) and is responsible for regulating cellular processes during development, homeostasis, and disease. Conversely, necrosis was considered uncontrolled and unregulated. However, recent evidence has unveiled the significance of necroptosis, a regulated form of necrosis, as an important mechanism of PCD alongside apoptosis. The activation of necroptosis leads to cellular membrane disruption, inflammation, and vascularization. This process is crucial in various pathological conditions, including intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD), neurodegeneration, inflammatory diseases, multiple cancers, and kidney injury. In recent years, extensive research efforts have shed light on the molecular regulation of the necroptotic pathway. Various stimuli trigger necroptosis, and its regulation involves the activation of specific proteins such as receptor-interacting protein kinase 1 (RIPK1), RIPK3, and the mixed lineage kinase domain-like (MLKL) pseudokinase. Understanding the intricate mechanisms governing necroptosis holds great promise for developing novel therapeutic interventions targeting necroptosis-associated IVDD. The objective of this review is to contribute to the growing body of scientific knowledge in this area by providing a comprehensive overview of necroptosis and its association with IVDD. Ultimately, these understandings will allow the development of innovative drugs that can modulate the necroptotic pathway, offering new therapeutic avenues for individuals suffering from necroptosis.

Unraveling Therapeutic Opportunities and the Diagnostic Potential of microRNAs for Human Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is a major public health problem and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Despite advances in treatment options, the five-year survival rate for lung cancer patients remains low, emphasizing the urgent need for innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for lung cancer due to their crucial roles in regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. For example, miR-34a and miR-150, once delivered to lung cancer via liposomes or nanoparticles, can inhibit tumor growth by downregulating critical cancer promoting genes. Conversely, miR-21 and miR-155, frequently overexpressed in lung cancer, are associated with increased cell proliferation, invasion, and chemotherapy resistance. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of the roles of miRNAs in lung carcinogenesis, especially those induced by exposure to environmental pollutants, namely, arsenic and benzopyrene, which account for up to 1/10 of lung cancer cases. We then discuss the recent advances in miRNA-based cancer therapeutics and diagnostics. Such information will provide new insights into lung cancer pathogenesis and innovative diagnostic and therapeutic modalities based on miRNAs.

MiR-125 family improves the radiosensitivity of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

MiRNAs can affect the radiosensitization of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). We aimed to analyze the function of miR-125 family members in HNSCC using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and determine their effect on radiation in laryngeal squamous cell cancer (LSCC).

METHODS

First, we systematically analyzed the role of the miR-125 family in HNSCC using the TCGA database and found that miR-125a-5p is associated with radiotherapy. We then performed comprehensive enrichment analysis of miR-125a-5p and predicted target genes. Then, we performed transfection, cell proliferation assays, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, apoptosis assays, micronucleus tests, and western blotting on hep-2 cells selected with puromycin.

RESULTS

MiR-125 family members exhibited significantly different expression in HNSCC. They were significantly associated with tumor-node-metastasis staging, clinical stages, and histological grades. Radiation therapy had a statistically effect on miR-125 family members, except miR-125a-3p. Moreover, miR-125a-5p was related to overall survival in LSCC. Thus, we predicted 110 target genes and seven hub genes of miR-125a-5p. The proliferation rate of cells transfected with lentivirus vector expressing miR-125a-5p was significantly reduced compared to the other groups. The radiation effect was enhanced in cells transfected with miR-125a-5p. The ratio of apoptotic cells transfected and exposed to X-rays (10 Gy) was distinctly higher than that of the Ad-control group. Western blotting analysis revealed that miR-125a-5p upregulated the apoptotic regulators P53 and rH2AX. Thus, miR-125a-5p may increase radiosensitivity in LSCC via upregulation of pro-apoptotic genes.

CONCLUSIONS

MiR-125 family members could be prognostic biomarkers of HNSCC and improve HNSCC sensitivity to radiotherapy by activating P53. Upregulating miR-125a-5p via lentivirus vectors may be a novel strategy to strengthen the effect of radiotherapy on LSCC.

Small RNA-seq and hormones in the testes of dwarf hamsters (Cricetulus barabensis) reveal the potential pathways in photoperiod regulated reproduction

Photoperiod regulates the functions and development of gonadal organs of seasonally breeding animals, resulting in breeding peaks in specific seasons. miRNA plays an important role in the regulation of testicular physiological functions. However, the relationship between photoperiods and miRNA levels in testes has yet to be conclusively determined. We investigated testicular miRNA of striped dwarf hamster (Cricetulus barabensis) responses to different photoperiods (long daylength [LD], moderate daylength [MD], and short daylength [SD]) and the potential pathways involved in photoperiod regulated reproduction. Testicular weights and reproductive hormone levels were measured in each of photoperiod treatments after 30 days. The concentrations of testosterone (T) and dihydrogen testosterone (DHT) in testes and Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) in serum were higher in MD than in the other two groups. Testicular weights were heaviest in MD. Small RNA-seq was performed for the testes of hamsters in three groups. A total of 769 miRNAs were identified, of which 83 were differentially expressed between LD, MD, and SD. GO and KEGG analysis of target genes revealed that some miRNAs influence testicular activities by regulating the pathways related to cell apoptosis and metabolism. Gene expression pattern analysis showed that the MAPK signaling pathway may be the core pathway for photoperiodic regulation of reproduction. These results suggest that moderate daylength is more suitable for hamster reproduction while long daylength and short daylength may regulate reproduction through different molecular pathways.

Screening and identification of miR-181a-5p in oral squamous cell carcinoma and functional verification in vivo and in vitro

BACKGROUND

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a common malignant tumor associated with poor prognosis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play crucial regulatory roles in the cancer development. However, the role of miRNAs in OSCC development and progression is not well understood.

METHODS

We sought to establish a dynamic Chinese hamster OSCC animal model, construct miRNA differential expression profiles of its occurrence and development, predict its targets, and perform functional analysis and validation in vitro.

RESULTS

Using expression and functional analyses, the key candidate miRNA (miR-181a-5p) was selected for further functional research, and the expression of miR-181a-5p in OSCC tissues and cell lines was detected. Subsequently, transfection technology and a nude mouse tumorigenic model were used to explore potential molecular mechanisms. miR-181a-5p was significantly downregulated in human OSCC specimens and cell lines, and decreased miR-181a-5p expression was observed in multiple stages of the Chinese hamster OSCC animal model. Moreover, upregulated miR-181a-5p significantly inhibited OSCC cell proliferation, colony formation, invasion, and migration; blocked the cell cycle; and promoted apoptosis. BCL2 was identified as a target of miR-181a-5p. BCL2 may interact with apoptosis- (BAX), invasion- and migration- (TIMP1, MMP2, and MMP9), and cell cycle-related genes (KI67, E2F1, CYCLIND1, and CDK6) to further regulate biological behavior. Tumor xenograft analysis indicated that tumor growth was significantly inhibited in the high miR-181a-5p expression group.

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate that miR-181a-5p can be used as a potential biomarker and provide a novel animal model for mechanistic research on oral cancer.

TIMP-1 Dependent Modulation of Metabolic Profiles Impacts Chemoresistance in NSCLC

The development of chemoresistance remains a significant barrier to treating NSCLC. Alteration of cancer cell metabolism is an important mechanism for chemoresistance. This study explored the role of aberrant metabolism in TIMP-1-mediated chemoresistance. Bioinformatics analysis identified an association of high TIMP-1 with altered energy metabolism. We have defined the role of depolarized mitochondria through a reduction in lactate secretion, higher ROS levels in TIMP-1 KD cells and reduced GSH levels. TIMP-1 modulates the metabolic profile via acetylation of mitochondrial STAT3 and its interaction with CD44. Intriguingly, monomers of acetylated STAT3 were critical for altered metabolism, whereas STAT3 dimers abrogated this function. Further, the mitochondrial metabolic profile was also altered in a cisplatin-resistant clone of A549 cells. We also correlated the immunoexpression of CD44, STAT3 and TIMP-1 in patient samples. This study provided evidence that TIMP-1 alters the metabolic profile by modulating mitochondrial metabolism via the CD44-STAT3 axis through its effects on STAT3 acetylation. It also lent further support to the critical role of TIMP-1 in chemoresistance. Interrogation of the TCGA-LUAD dataset revealed perturbations in the critical modulator that can alter metabolic states in cancer cells. Higher expression of a five-gene signature, including TIMP-1, correlated with immunosuppressive cells and was found to be associated with overall survival. This study identified several metabolic mechanisms that could influence therapeutic options and prognosis in NSCLC patients.

Long noncoding RNA MIR22HG promotes Leydig cell apoptosis by acting as a competing endogenous RNA for microRNA-125a-5p that targets N-Myc downstream-regulated gene 2 in late-onset hypogonadism

Leydig cells (LCs) apoptosis is responsible for the deficiency of serum testosterone in Late-onset hypogonadism (LOH), while its specific mechanism is still unknown. This study focuses on the role of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) MIR22HG in LC apoptosis and aims to elaborate its regulatory mechanism. MIR22HG was up-regulated in the testicular tissues of mice with LOH and H2O2-treated TM3 cells (mouse Leydig cell line). Interference of MIR22HG ameliorated cell apoptosis and upregulated miR-125a-5p expression in H2O2-treated TM3 cells. Then, the interaction between MIR22HG and miR-125a-5p was confirmed with RIP and RNA pull-down assay. Further study showed that miR-125a-5p downregulated N-Myc downstream-regulated gene 2 (NDRG2) expression by targeting its 3'-UTR of mRNA. What's more, MIR22HG overexpression aggravated cell apoptosis and reduced testosterone production in TM3 cells via miR-125a-5p/NDRG2 pathway. MIR22HG knockdown elevated testosterone levels in LOH mice. In conclusion, MIR22HG up-regulated NDRG2 expression through targeting miR-125a-5p, thus promoting LC apoptosis in LOH.

Novel prognostic molecular markers in lung cancer

Lung carcinoma, especially in its most commonly diagnosed non-small cell histological form, is a challenge to diagnose and treat worldwide, due to the prognosis in patients with this type of cancer being poor and mortality rates being high. However, a number of patients with this type of lung carcinoma exhibit a longer than average overall survival. The specific molecular background of non-small-cell lung cancer that favors longer survival has not yet been determined. The aim of the current study was to review articles published in the years 2017-2018 and create a list of the most important and strongest non-conventional factors that could be used in the future assessment of the prognosis of patients with adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma of the lung who cannot undergo current targeted therapy. Analysis identified multiple prognostic factors in non-small cell lung carcinoma, including tumor mutational burden, which was revealed to be independent of the tumor stage or grade as well as other factors, including age, sex or targeted therapy effects. The selected molecular factors exhibit the potential to be used in the treatment of patients with specific problematic lung cancer, and may contribute to setting recommendations for the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of individual patients with lung cancer.

TIMP-1-Mediated Chemoresistance via Induction of IL-6 in NSCLC

Elevated tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) is a negative prognosticator in non-small cell lung carcinoma NSCLC patients. This study sought to identify mechanisms whereby TIMP-1 impacts anticancer therapy. Using NSCLC cells and their TIMP-1 knockdown clones, we examined the chemoresistance against two chemotherapeutic agents, Gemcitabine and Cisplatin, as identified by increased apoptosis in the knockdown clones. A bead-based cytokine screening assay identified interleukin-6 (IL-6) as a key factor in chemoresistance. Exogenous human recombinant rhTIMP-1 or rhIL-6 resulted in reduced apoptosis. IL-6 expression was closely correlated with TIMP-1 kinetics and was upregulated by the addition of exogenous TIMP-1 while TIMP-1 neutralizing antibodies delayed IL-6 elevation. IL-6 production was regulated by TIMP-1, exerting its effect via activation of downstream signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling. Both molecules and their documented transcription factors were upregulated and activated in chemoresistant NSCLC cells, confirming the roles of TIMP-1 and IL-6 in chemoresistance. To examine the role of these genes in patients, survival data from lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) patients was curated from the cancer genome atlas (TCGA) database. Kaplan-Meier analysis found that individuals expressing low TIMP-1 and IL-6 have a higher survival rate and that the two-gene signature was more significant than the single-gene status. We define for the first time, a regulatory relationship between TIMP-1 and IL-6 in NSCLCs, suggesting that the TIMP-1/IL6 axis may be a valuable prognostic biomarker. Therapeutic interventions directed at this dual target may improve overall prognosis while negatively affecting the development of chemoresistance in NSCLC.

MicroRNA-125 in immunity and cancer

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that play a wide variety of critical roles in different biological processes by post-transcriptionally regulating gene expression. They access diverse regulatory pathways during various stages of cellular differentiation, growth, and apoptosis, and can contribute to both normal and diseased functions. One important family of miRNAs involved in these functions is the miR-125 family (miR-125a and miR-125b). Investigations have been made to increasingly uncover the mechanisms by which the miR-125 family regulates normal homeostasis and growth in a variety of cell types including immune cells, and how dysregulation of miR-125a and miR-125b can lead to disease pathogenesis and tumorigenesis. In this review, we summarize what is currently known about miR-125a and miR-125b, mainly focusing on their roles in immune cell development and function as well as tumor suppression and promotion.