miR-16 targets fibroblast growth factor 2 to inhibit NPC cell proliferation and invasion via PI3K/AKT and MAPK signaling pathways

LncRNA RP11-818O24.3 promotes hair-follicle recovery via FGF2-PI3K/Akt signal pathway

A previous study indicated that patients with androgenic alopecia (AGA) have significantly reduced levels of LncRNA RP11-818O24.3. This study investigates whether LncRNA RP11-818O24.3 promotes hair-follicle recovery and its possible mechanism. Hair alteration and cutaneous histopathological changes induced by testosterone propionate were observed by H&E and bromodeoxyuridinc (BrdU) stain to evaluate the therapeutic effect of LncRNA RP11-818O24.3 in C57BL/6 J mice. The cellular viability was analyzed in LncRNA RP11-818O24.3-transfected human hair-follicle stem cells (HFSCs) in vitro. The signaling pathways and pro-proliferative factors were investigated by transcriptomic gene sequencing and qRT-PCR. LncRNA RP11-818O24.3 transfection successfully recovered hair growth and hair-follicle cells in AGA mice. In a series of HFSC studies in vitro, LncRNA RP11-818O24.3 transfection greatly promoted cellular proliferation and decreased cellular apoptosis. Transcriptome gene sequencing suggested that the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-Akt pathway was upregulated by LncRNA RP11-818O24.3. The qRT-PCR results showed that fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-2 was 14-times upregulated after LncRNA RP11-818O24.3 transfection. Hair-follicle recovery activity of LncRNA RP11-818O24.3 may involve the upregulation of FGF2 and PI3K-Akt to promote follicle stem cell survival. These data not only provide a theoretical basis for AGA development but also reveal a novel therapeutic method for AGA patients.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10616-024-00624-3.

Regulatory role of miRNAs in nasopharyngeal cancer involving PTEN/PI3K/AKT, TGFβ/SMAD, RAS/MAPK, Wnt/β-catenin and pRB-E2F signaling pathways: A review

MicroRNAs (miRNA) are small and conserved noncoding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression at the posttranscriptional level. These groups of RNAs are crucial in various cellular processes, especially in mediating disease pathogenesis, particularly cancer. The dysregulation of miRNAs was reported in many cancer types, including nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC), which is a malignant tumor of the nasopharynx. In this review, miRNAs involvement in crucial signaling pathways associated with NPC such as PTEN/PI3K/AKT, TGFβ/SMAD, RAS/MAPK, Wnt/β-catenin and pRB-E2F was investigated. miRNAs could function as tumor suppressor-miR or onco-miR in NPC profoundly influenced cell cycle, apoptosis, proliferation, migration, and metastasis. This comprehensive review of current literature provided a thorough profile of miRNAs and their interplay with the aforementioned signaling pathways in NPC. Understanding these molecular interactions could remarkably impact the diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic strategies for NPC.

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma: current views on the tumor microenvironment's impact on drug resistance and clinical outcomes

The incidence of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) exhibits significant variations across different ethnic groups and geographical regions, with Southeast Asia and North Africa being endemic areas. Of note, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection is closely associated with almost all of the undifferentiated NPC cases. Over the past three decades, radiation therapy and chemotherapy have formed the cornerstone of NPC treatment. However, recent advancements in immunotherapy have introduced a range of promising approaches for managing NPC. In light of these developments, it has become evident that a deeper understanding of the tumor microenvironment (TME) is crucial. The TME serves a dual function, acting as a promoter of tumorigenesis while also orchestrating immunosuppression, thereby facilitating cancer progression and enabling immune evasion. Consequently, a comprehensive comprehension of the TME and its intricate involvement in the initiation, progression, and metastasis of NPC is imperative for the development of effective anticancer drugs. Moreover, given the complexity of TME and the inter-patient heterogeneity, personalized treatment should be designed to maximize therapeutic efficacy and circumvent drug resistance. This review aims to provide an in-depth exploration of the TME within the context of EBV-induced NPC, with a particular emphasis on its pivotal role in regulating intercellular communication and shaping treatment responses. Additionally, the review offers a concise summary of drug resistance mechanisms and potential strategies for their reversal, specifically in relation to chemoradiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Furthermore, recent advances in clinical trials pertaining to NPC are also discussed.

Precision medicine in nasopharyngeal carcinoma: comprehensive review of past, present, and future prospect

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is an aggressive malignancy with high propensity for lymphatic spread and distant metastasis. It is prominent as an endemic malignancy in Southern China and Southeast Asia regions. Studies on NPC pathogenesis mechanism in the past decades such as through Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) infection and oncogenic molecular aberrations have explored several potential targets for therapy and diagnosis. The EBV infection introduces oncoviral proteins that consequently hyperactivate many promitotic pathways and block cell-death inducers. EBV infection is so prevalent in NPC patients such that EBV serological tests were used to diagnose and screen NPC patients. On the other hand, as the downstream effectors of oncogenic mechanisms, the promitotic pathways can potentially be exploited therapeutically. With the apparent heterogeneity and distinct molecular aberrations of NPC tumor, the focus has turned into a more personalized treatment in NPC. Herein in this comprehensive review, we depict the current status of screening, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention in NPC. Subsequently, based on the limitations on those aspects, we look at their potential improvements in moving towards the path of precision medicine. The importance of recent advances on the key molecular aberration involved in pathogenesis of NPC for precision medicine progression has also been reported in the present review. Besides, the challenge and future outlook of NPC management will also be highlighted.

Exploring the Feasibility of Circulating miRNAs as Diagnostic and Prognostic Biomarkers in Osteoarthritis: Challenges and Opportunities

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent degenerative joint disease characterized by progressive cartilage degradation and joint inflammation. As the most common aging-related joint disease, OA is marked by inadequate extracellular matrix synthesis and the breakdown of articular cartilage. However, traditional diagnostic methods for OA, relying on clinical assessments and radiographic imaging, often need to catch up in detecting early-stage disease or i accurately predicting its progression. Consequently, there is a growing interest in identifying reliable biomarkers that can facilitate early diagnosis and prognosis of OA. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as potential candidates due to their involvement in various cellular processes, including cartilage homeostasis and inflammation. This review explores the feasibility of circulating miRNAs as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in OA, focusing on knee OA while shedding light on the challenges and opportunities associated with their implementation in clinical practice.

Identification of renal cyst cells of type I Nephronophthisis by single-nucleus RNA sequencing

Background: Nephronophthisis (NPH) is the most common genetic cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in childhood, and NPHP1 is the major pathogenic gene. Cyst formation at the corticomedullary junction is a pathological feature of NPH, but the mechanism underlying cystogenesis is not well understood. The isolation and identification of cystic cell subpopulation could help to identify their origins and provide vital clues to the mechanisms underlying cystogenesis in NPH. Methods: Single-nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA-seq) was performed to produce an atlas of NPHP1 renal cells. Kidney samples were collected from WT (Nphp1 +/+) mice and NPHP1 (Nphp1 del2-20/del2-20) model mice. Results: A comprehensive atlas of the renal cellular landscape in NPHP1 was generated, consisting of 14 basic renal cell types as well as a subpopulation of DCT cells that was overrepresented in NPHP1 kidneys compared to WT kidneys. GO analysis revealed significant downregulation of genes associated with tubular development and kidney morphogenesis in this subpopulation. Furthermore, the reconstruction of differentiation trajectories of individual cells within this subpopulation confirmed that a specific group of cells in NPHP1 mice become arrested at an early stage of differentiation and proliferate to form cysts. We demonstrate that Niban1 is a specific molecular marker of cystic cells in both mice and human NPHP1. Conclusion: In summary, we report a novel subpopulation of DCT cells, marked by Niban1, that are classified as cystic cells in the NPHP1 mice kidney. These results offer fresh insights into the cellular and molecular basis of cystogenesis in NPH.

FGF9 promotes cell proliferation and tumorigenesis in TM3 mouse Leydig progenitor cells

Fibroblast growth factor 9 (FGF9) modulates cell proliferation, differentiation and motility for development and tissue repair in normal cells. Growing evidence shows that abnormal activation of FGF9 signaling is associated with tumor malignancy. We have previously reported that FGF9 increases MA-10 mouse Leydig tumor cell proliferation, in vitro, and tumor growth, in vivo. Also, FGF9 promotes the tumor growth and liver metastasis of mouse Lewis lung cancer cells, in vivo. However, the effects of FGF9 in the early stage of tumorigenesis remains elusive. In this study, TM3 mouse Leydig progenitor cells, that are not tumorigenic in immunocompromised mice, were used as a model cell line to investigate the role of FGF9 in tumorigenesis. The results demonstrated that FGF9 significantly induced cell proliferation and activated the MAPK, PI3K and PLCγ signaling pathways in TM3 cells. The percentage of the cell number in G1 phase was reduced and that in S and G2/M phases was increased after FGF9 stimulation in TM3 cells. Cyclin D1, cyclin A1, CDK2, CDK1, and p21 expressions and the phosphorylation level of Rb were all induced in FGF9-treated TM3 cells. In addition, FGF9 increased the expression of FGF receptor 1-4 in TM3 cells, suggesting the positive feedback loop between FGF9 and FGFRs. Furthermore, in the allograft mouse model, FGF9 promoted the tumorigenesis of TM3 cells characterized by higher expression of tumor markers, such as tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and α-fetoprotein (AFP), in the subcutaneously inoculated TM3 cell tissue. Conclusively, FGF9 induced cell cycle to increase cell proliferation of TM3 cells through FAK, MAPK, PI3K/Akt and PLCγ signaling pathways, in vitro, and promoted the tumorigenesis of TM3 cell allograft tissue, in vivo, which is a potential marker for tumor as well as a target for cancer therapeutic strategies.

Small biomarkers with massive impacts: PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling and microRNA crosstalk regulate nasopharyngeal carcinoma

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is one of the most common malignant tumours of the head and neck in Southeast Asia and southern China. The Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signalling pathway is involved in processes related to tumour initiation/progression, such as proliferation, apoptosis, metastasis, and drug resistance, and is closely related to the clinicopathological features of NPC. In addition, key genes involved in the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling pathway undergo many changes in NPC. More interestingly, a growing body of evidence suggests an interaction between this signalling pathway and microRNAs (miRNAs), a class of small noncoding RNAs. Therefore, in this review, we discuss the interactions between key components of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling pathway and various miRNAs and their importance in NPC pathology and explore potential diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

FGF1 Signaling Modulates Biliary Injury and Liver Fibrosis in the Mdr2-/- Mouse Model of Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis

Fibroblast growth factor 1 (FGF1) belongs to a family of growth factors involved in cellular growth and division. MicroRNA 16 (miR-16) is a regulator of gene expression, which is dysregulated during liver injury and insult. However, the role of FGF1 in the progression of biliary proliferation, senescence, fibrosis, inflammation, angiogenesis, and its potential interaction with miR-16, are unknown. In vivo studies were performed in male bile duct-ligated (BDL, 12-week-old) mice, multidrug resistance 2 knockout (Mdr2-/-) mice (10-week-old), and their corresponding controls, treated with recombinant human FGF1 (rhFGF1), fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) antagonist (AZD4547), or anti-FGF1 monoclonal antibody (mAb). In vitro, the human cholangiocyte cell line (H69) and human hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were used to determine the expression of proliferation, fibrosis, angiogenesis, and inflammatory genes following rhFGF1 treatment. PSC patient and control livers were used to evaluate FGF1 and miR-16 expression. Intrahepatic bile duct mass (IBDM), along with hepatic fibrosis and inflammation, increased in BDL mice treated with rhFGF1, with a corresponding decrease in miR-16, while treatment with AZD4547 or anti-FGF1 mAb decreased hepatic fibrosis, IBDM, and inflammation in BDL and Mdr2-/- mice. In vitro, H69 and HSCs treated with rhFGF1 had increased expression of proliferation, fibrosis, and inflammatory markers. PSC samples also showed increased FGF1 and FGFRs with corresponding decreases in miR-16 compared with healthy controls. Conclusion: Our study demonstrates that suppression of FGF1 and miR-16 signaling decreases the presence of hepatic fibrosis, biliary proliferation, inflammation, senescence, and angiogenesis. Targeting the FGF1 and miR-16 axis may provide therapeutic options in treating cholangiopathies such as PSC.

Circulating microRNAs (miR-16, miR-22, miR-122) expression and early diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma

Purpose

Circulating microRNA (miRNA) has been reported to have diagnostic value in multiple tumors. To identify serum miRNAs for early diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), we analyzed the differential miRNA expression between HCC patients and controls.

Methods

Real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) was carried out to detect serum miR‐16, miR‐22, and miR‐122 expression in 100 HCC patients and 100 controls (including hepatitis B, liver cirrhosis, liver metastases, hepatic hemangioma, health group, and each of them had 20 subjects). The miRNA expression results were combined with alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy in HCC through receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. And the target genes were predicted through bioinformatics methods.

Results

Compared with controls, the expression of miR‐16 and miR‐122 significantly increased in early‐stage HCC patients, while no significant changes were detected in miR‐22. The ROC curve analysis demonstrated that miR‐16 and miR‐122 had a high diagnostic efficacy (AUC 0.798 and 0.759), and it was improved when combined with AFP (AUC 0.862). When compared with each of the five groups in the controls, the results showed that miR‐16 of HCC was significantly higher than liver cirrhosis (AUC 0.936), liver metastases, and health; miR‐122 was significantly higher than liver metastases, hepatitis B, and health. Moreover, 175 and 101 potential target genes were regulated by miR‐16 and miR‐122, respectively. And most of the target genes were enriched in the PI3K, MAPK, FoxO signaling pathways, and pathways in cancer.

Conclusion

Our findings illustrate that both circulating miR‐16 and miR‐122 can provide value for early diagnosis of HCC and they are potential biomarkers for the early‐stage HCC.

Crosstalk between miRNA and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in cancer

Phosphoinositide-3 kinase (PI3K)/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway is one of the most important proliferative signaling pathways with critical undeniable function in various aspects of cancer initiation/progression, including proliferation, apoptosis, metastasis, angiogenesis, and drug resistance. On the other hand, numerous genetic alterations in the key genes involved in the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway have been identified in multiple solid and hematological tumors. In addition, accumulating recent evidences have demonstrated a reciprocal interaction between this signaling pathway and microRNAs, a large group of small non-coding RNAs. Therefore, in this review, it was attempted to discuss about the interaction between key components of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway with various miRNAs and their importance in cancer biology.

Lnc-H19 enhances anaerobic glycolysis of keloid fibroblasts by targeting the miR-214-5p/FGF2 axis

Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) H19 has been demonstrated as vital regulator in tumors. However, whether lnc-H19 mediated the development of keloid fibroblasts (KD) was unknown, this study was aimed to clarify the role and molecular mechanisms of lnc-H19 in KD. We have investigated the expression levels of lnc-H19, miR-214-5p and fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) in KD skin samples and normal skin tissues as well as matched cells by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) assay. The glycolysis ability of keloid fibroblasts was assessed by measuring glucose consumption, lactate production, and ATP level. The western blot assay was used to assay the expression levels of FGF2 and hexokinase 2 (HK2). Migration and invasion were analyzed by transwell in keloid fibroblasts. The bioinformatics database and dual-luciferase reporter assay were used to search and identify the target of miR-214-5p and lnc-H19. Lnc-H19 was overexpressed in KD tissues and keloid fibroblasts than normal skin tissues and normal fibroblasts, respectively. Small interfering RNA of lnc-H19 treatment markedly inhibited glycolysis, migration and invasion of keloid fibroblasts exposed to hypoxia, which was reserved by silencing of miR-214-5p or upregulation of FGF2. Mechanistically, lnc-H19 regulated KD development by regulation of miR-214-5p/FGF2 axis. In summary, lnc-H19 may exert regulatory functions in KD by targeting miR-214-5p/FGF2 axis, further regulated glycolysis, migration and invasion in keloid fibroblasts exposed to hypoxia, which might be a potential marker of KD diagnosis or progression.

MiR-30a-5p inhibits proliferation, migration and invasion of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells by targeting NUCB2

BACKGROUND

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a malignant head and neck tumor arising in the nasopharynx. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are elucidated to exert tumor-suppressing function in human cancers. Numerous studies have manifested that miR-30a-5p serves as an anti-oncogene in various cancers.

OBJECTIVE

To research the biological function and molecular mechanism of miR-30a-5p in NPC.

METHODS

The morphology of NPC tissues was revealed by H&E staining. Transwell and wound healing assays were applied to investigate the effects of miR-30a-5p on NPC cell migration. The binding interaction between miR-30a-5p and nucleobindin 2 (NUCB2) was identified by luciferase reporter assay. Xenograft nude mice were used to detect the influence of miR-30a-5p on NPC tumor growth.

RESULTS

MiR-30a-5p was downregulated in NPC tissues and cells. The overexpression ofmiR-30a-5p inhibited proliferation, migration and invasion abilities of NPC cells. Moreover, NUCB2 was revealed to be a downstream target gene of miR-30a-5p, and knockdown of NUCB2 repressed the malignant behaviors of NPC cells and tumor growth. Additionally, rescue experiments revealed that miR-30a-5p suppressed the proliferation, migration and invasion of NPC cells via targeting NUCB2 in vitro. Meanwhile, in vivo assays depicted that NUCB2 overexpression rescued the effects induced by miR-30a-5p upregulation on tumor growth.

CONCLUSION

MiR-30a-5p modulates NPC progression by targeting NUCB2. These findings lay a foundation for exploring the clinical treatment of NPC.

The emerging role of non-coding RNAs in the regulation of PI3K/AKT pathway in the carcinogenesis process

The PI3K/AKT pathway is an intracellular signaling pathway with an indispensable impact on cell cycle control. This pathway is functionally related with cell proliferation, cell survival, metabolism, and quiescence. The crucial role of this pathway in the development of cancer has offered this pathway as a target of novel anti-cancer treatments. Recent researches have demonstrated the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in controlling the PI3K/AKT pathway. Some miRNAs such as miR-155-5p, miR-328-3p, miR-125b-5p, miR-126, miR-331-3p and miR-16 inactivate this pathway, while miR-182, miR-106a, miR-193, miR-214, miR-106b, miR-93, miR-21 and miR-103/107 enhance activity of this pathway. Expression levels of PI3K/AKT-associated miRNAs could be used to envisage the survival of cancer patients. Numerous lncRNAs such as GAS5, FER1L4, LINC00628, PICART1, LOC101928316, ADAMTS9-AS2, SLC25A5-AS1, MEG3, AB073614 and SNHG6 interplay with this pathway. Identification of the impact of miRNAs and lncRNAs in the control of the activity of PI3K/AKT pathway would enhance the efficacy of targeted therapies against this pathway. Moreover, each of the mentioned miRNAs and lncRNAs could be used as a putative therapeutic candidate for the interfering with the carcinogenesis. In the current study, we review the role of miRNAs and lncRNAs in controlling the PI3K/AKT pathway and their contribution to carcinogenesis.

Advances in targeted therapy mainly based on signal pathways for nasopharyngeal carcinoma

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a malignant epithelial carcinoma of the head and neck region which mainly distributes in southern China and Southeast Asia and has a crucial association with the Epstein-Barr virus. Based on epidemiological data, both incidence and mortality of NPC have significantly declined in recent decades grounded on the improvement of living standard and medical level in an endemic region, in particular, with the clinical use of individualized chemotherapy and intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) which profoundly contributes to the cure rate of NPC patients. To tackle the challenges including local recurrence and distant metastasis in the current NPC treatment, we discussed the implication of using targeted therapy against critical molecules in various signal pathways, and how they synergize with chemoradiotherapy in the NPC treatment. Combination treatment including targeted therapy and IMRT or concurrent chemoradiotherapy is presumably to be future options, which may reduce radiation or chemotherapy toxicities and open new avenues for the improvement of the expected functional outcome for patients with advanced NPC.

MicroRNAs: Biogenesis, Functions and Potential Biomarkers for Early Screening, Prognosis and Therapeutic Molecular Monitoring of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

According to reports published, the aberrant expression of microRNAs (miRNAs), a class of 19–25 nucleotide-long small non-coding RNAs, is responsible for human cancers, including nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC). The dysregulation of miRNAs that act either as a tumor suppressor or oncogene, leading to a wide range of NPC pathogenesis pathways, includes the proliferation, invasion, migration as well as the metastasis of NPC cells. This article reviews and highlights recent advances in the studies of miRNAs in NPC, with a specific demonstration of the functions of miRNA, especially circulating miRNAs, in the pathway of NPC pathogenesis. Additionally, the possible use of miRNAs as early screening and prognostic biomarkers and for therapeutic molecular monitoring has been extensively studied.

H19/miR-675-5p Targeting SFN Enhances the Invasion and Metastasis of Nasalpharyngeal Cancer Cells

AIMS

The aim is to study the role of miR-675-5p coded by long non-coding RNA H19 in the development of Nasopharyngeal Cancer (NPC) and whether miR-675-5p regulates the invasion and metastasis of NPC through targeting SFN (14-3-3σ). The study further validated the relationship between H19, miR-675-5p and SFN in NPC and their relationship with the invasion and metastasis of NPC.

METHODS

Western blot was used to detect the expression of 14-3-3σ protein in immortalized normal nasopharyngeal epithelial cells NP69 and different metastatic potential NPC cells, 6-10B and 5-8F. At the same time, to find out the relationship between 14-3-3σ protein and the expression of H19 and miR-675-5p, the expression of H19 and miR-675-5p in normal nasopharynx epithelial cells NP69 and varied nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells 6-10B and 5-8F were quantified by real-time PCR. MiR-675-5p mimic and inhibitor were transfected into NPC 6-10B to over-express and down-express miR-675-5p; miR-675-5p mimic negative control and inhibitor negative control were transfected into NPC 6-10B as control groups. The effect of over-expression and down-expression by miR-675-5p on the expression of 14-3-3σ protein was detected by Western blotting. The 3'-UTR segments of SFN, containing miR-675-5p binding sites were amplified by PCR and the luciferase activity in the transfected cells was assayed to detect whether SFN is the direct target of miR-675-5p. Transwell and scratch assays were used to verify the changes in NPC invasion and metastasis ability of mimics and inhibitors transfected with miR-675-5p.

RESULTS

The expression of 14-3-3σ protein in normal nasopharynx epithelial cells NP69 is significantly higher than in varied nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells, 6-10B and 5-8F (P<0.05), and the 14-3-3σ protein levels in low-metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell 6-10B is higher than in high-metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell 5-8F. The expression of H19 and miR-675-5p are significantly higher in NPC cells than in NP69 cell (P<0.05). The expression of H19 and miR-675-5p in high-Metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell 5-8F was higher than in low-Metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell 6-10B. The expression of 14-3-3σ protein in miR-675-5p mimic cells was significantly lower than in mimic NC (negative control) group and blank control group. However, compared with the blank control group, mimic NC showed no significant difference in 14-3-3σ protein between the two groups. The miR-675-5p inhibitor group was significantly higher than the inhibitor NC group and the blank control group (p<0.05), but there was no significant difference in the expression of 14-3-3σ protein in the inhibitor NC group and the blank control group (p>0.05). Dual-luciferase reporter assay system shows the 3'-UTR segments of SFN containing miR-675-5p binding sites. SFN was the target gene of miR-675-5p.

CONCLUSION

14-3-3σ is downregulated in NPC and is involved in the development of NPC. H19 and miR- 675-5p are upregulated in NPC, which is related to the development of NPC. The over-expression of miR- 675-5p inhibits the expression of 14-3-3σ protein. SFN is the target gene of miR-675-5p. MiR-675-5p targets SFN, downregulates its protein expression and promotes the invasion and metastasis of NPC.

Antagonistic effect of selenium on lead-induced neutrophil apoptosis in chickens via miR-16-5p targeting of PiK3R1 and IGF1R

Environmental contamination by heavy metals, such as lead (Pb), can lead to severe immune dysfunction. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in regulating immunity. Whether Pb can regulate neutrophil apoptosis through miRNA, and whether selenium (Se) can antagonize this response are still unknown. We treated neutrophils with 12.5 μM (CH₃OO)₂Pb and 1 μM Na₂SeO₃ for 3 h, after which apoptosis was evaluated using acrideine orange/ethidium bromide (AO/EB) dual fluorescent staining and flow cytometry. The results showed that neutrophil apoptosis was significantly increased following Pb exposure, and that this response was prevented upon Se addition. Pb up-regulates miR-16-5p and leads to the subsequent down-regulation of the target genes phosphoinositide-3-kinase regulatory subunit 1 (PiK3R1), insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R), and phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (Pi3K)-protein kinase B (AKT), followed by activation of the tumor protein P53 (P53)-B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2)/Bcl-2-Associated X protein (Bax)-cytochrome c (Cytc)-Caspase 9 (mitochondrial apoptotic pathway) and the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 6 (Fas)-Fas-associated death domain protein (Fadd)-Caspase 8 (death receptor pathway). Pb also triggered oxidative stress and indirectly activated the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. We conclude that miR-16-5p plays a key role in the apoptosis of neutrophils exposed to Pb by down-regulating the expression of PiK3R1 and IGFR1, thereby activating the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway and death receptor pathway. Se can prevent Pb-induced apoptosis.

MicroRNA-16, via FGF2 Regulation of the ERK/MAPK Pathway, Is Involved in the Magnesium-Promoted Osteogenic Differentiation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells

microRNAs (miRNAs) participate in the osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). However, few reports have discussed the effect of miRNAs on the magnesium chloride (MgCl₂)-induced promotion of osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs, a process involved in the healing of bone tissue. As determined in the present investigation, MgCl₂ decreased miR-16 levels; increased levels of fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2), p-p38, and p-ERK; and promoted the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. Enhancement of miR-16 levels by an miR-16 mimic blocked these MgCl₂-induced changes. Moreover, luciferase reporter assays confirmed that miR-16 binds to the 3'UTR region of FGF2 mRNA. Down-regulation of FGF2 blocked the MgCl₂-induced increases of p-p38 and p-ERK and the promotion of the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. Furthermore, over-expression of miR-16 attenuated the MgCl₂-induced overproduction of p-p38 and p-ERK1/2 and the high levels of osteogenic differentiation, effects that were reversed by elevated expression of FGF2. In summary, the present findings provide a mechanism by which miR-16 regulates MgCl₂-induced promotion of osteogenic differentiation by targeting FGF2-mediated activation of the ERK/MAPK pathway.

miR-16 enhances miR-302/367-induced reprogramming and tumor suppression in breast cancer cells

Overexpression of either miR-302 or miR-302/367 cluster induces reprogramming of cancer cells and exerts tumor-suppressive effects by induction of mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition, apoptosis and a less proliferative capacity. Several reports have described miR-16 as a tumor suppressor microRNA (miRNA). Here, we studied the impact of exogenous induction of miR-16 in MDA-MB-231 and SK-BR-3 breast cancer cells following overexpression of miR-302/367 cluster and investigated whether transfection of these cells by a mature miR-16 mimic could affect the reprogramming state of the cells and their tumorigenicity. miR-16 enhanced the expression levels of OCT4A, SOX2, and NANOG, generally known as transcription or pluripotency factors, and suppressed proliferation and invasiveness of these cells. Meanwhile, inhibition of miR-16 counteracted both the reprogramming effect and the antitumor function of miR-302/367 in the breast cancer cells. Current results indicate that miR-16 can work as an adjuvant to improve both cancer cell reprogramming and tumor-suppressive function of miR-302/367 cluster in MDA-MB-231 and SK-BR-3 cells, while its inhibition counteracts all of these effects. Combined application of miRNAs that share some common targets in cancer cell signaling pathways may provide new approaches for repression of multiple hallmarks of cancer.

The Multifarious Link between Cytochrome P450s and Cancer

Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. Cytochrome P450s (P450s) play an important role in the metabolism of endogenous as well as exogenous substances, especially drugs. Moreover, many P450s can serve as targets for disease therapy. Increasing reports of epidemiological, diagnostic, and clinical research indicate that P450s are enzymes that play a major part in the formation of cancer, prevention, and metastasis. The purposes of this review are to shed light on the current state of knowledge about the cancer molecular mechanism involving P450s and to summarize the link between the cancer effects and the participation of P450s.

Inhibition of PTEN Gene Expression by Small Interfering RNA on PI3K/Akt/FoxO3a Signaling Pathway in Human Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

The objective of this article is to study the effect of inhibiting phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted chromatosome 10 gene on phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B (Akt)/Forkhead homeobox O3a signaling pathway in human nasopharyngeal carcinoma HK-1 cells. Nasopharyngeal carcinoma HK-1 cell lines were divided into PTEN gene interference group (siPTEN), nonspecific small interfering RNA group (siNC), empty vector group (Vector), and no transfection control group (Normal). The mRNA and protein expression levels of PTEN, PI3K, p-Akt, and FoxO3a were detected by real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. Immunofluorescence was used to detect the subcellular localization of PTEN, PI3K, p-Akt, and FoxO3a in HK-1 cells. The proliferation of HK-1 cells was detected by MTT assay, and the apoptosis of HK-1 cells was detected by flow cytometry. Compared with the siNC group, the expression levels of PTEN, FoxO3a messenger RNA, and protein in the siPTEN group were significantly decreased (P < .05), while the expression levels of PI3K, p-Akt messenger RNA, and protein were significantly increased (P < .05). The growth rate of HK-1 cells in the siPTEN group was significantly higher than the siNC group (P < .05), while the apoptosis rate was significantly lower than that of the siNC group (P < .05). Small interfering RNA can inhibit the expression of PTEN in HK-1 cells, and PTEN can participate in the development of NPC by affecting PI3K/Akt/FoxO3a signaling pathway.

Function of fibroblast growth factor 2 in gastric cancer occurrence and prognosis

The present study aimed to explore the role of fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) in the development and prognosis of gastric cancer (GC). The relationship between FGF2 mRNA expression levels and the clinical characteristics of GC was investigated using microarray data from four GC cohorts involving 726 patients obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus. The results of the present study indicated that FGF2 expression levels were an independent factor affecting the prognosis of GC. The primary functions of FGF2 were related to cell adhesion and angiogenesis, and patients with high levels of FGF2 expression had poorer TNM staging and prognosis; these differences were statistically significant. In terms of immune infiltration, a higher extent of M2 macrophage intrusion was observed in patients with higher levels of FGF2. However, the degree of infiltration by dendritic and CD4⁺ T cells was lower, and this difference was statistically significant. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards model analysis revealed that age, TNM staging and FGF2 expression levels were independent prognostic factors for GC. In summary, FGF2 expression was demonstrated to be an independent prognostic factor in GC, and higher levels of FGF2 may promote the progression of this malignancy.

miR-15a/-16 Inhibit Angiogenesis by Targeting the Tie2 Coding Sequence: Therapeutic Potential of a miR-15a/16 Decoy System in Limb Ischemia

MicroRNA-15a (miR-15a) and miR-16, which are transcribed from the miR-15a/miR-16-1 cluster, inhibit post-ischemic angiogenesis. MicroRNA (miRNA) binding to mRNA coding sequences (CDSs) is a newly emerging mechanism of gene expression regulation. We aimed to (1) identify new mediators of the anti-angiogenic action of miR-15a and -16, (2) develop an adenovirus (Ad)-based miR-15a/16 decoy system carrying a luciferase reporter (Luc) to both sense and inhibit miR-15a/16 activity, and (3) investigate Ad.Luc-Decoy-15a/16 therapeutic potential in a mouse limb ischemia (LI) model. LI increased miR-15a and -16 expression in mouse muscular endothelial cells (ECs). The miRNAs also increased in cultured human umbilical vein ECs (HUVECs) exposed to serum starvation, but not hypoxia. Using bioinformatic tools and luciferase activity assays, we characterized miR-15a and -16 binding to Tie2 CDS. In HUVECs, miR-15a or -16 overexpression reduced Tie2 at the protein, but not the mRNA, level. Conversely, miR-15a or -16 inhibition improved angiogenesis in a Tie2-dependent manner. Local Ad.Luc-Decoy-15a/16 delivery increased Tie2 levels in ischemic skeletal muscle and improved post-LI angiogenesis and perfusion recovery, with reduced toe necrosis. Bioluminescent imaging (in vivo imaging system [IVIS]) provided evidence that the Ad.Luc-Decoy-15a/16 system responds to miR-15a/16 increases. In conclusion, we have provided novel mechanistic evidence of the therapeutic potential of local miR-15a/16 inhibition in LI.

MicroRNA-936 targets FGF2 to inhibit epithelial ovarian cancer aggressiveness by deactivating the PI3K/Akt pathway

Purpose

MicroRNA-936 (miR-936) was previously reported to be dysregulated and involved in the development of non-small cell lung cancer and glioma. However, the functional roles of miR-936 in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) remain unclear. In this study, we aimed to evaluate miR-936 expression in EOC and investigate its regulatory role in EOC cell behavior.

Methods

The expression of miR-936 in EOC was measured by RT-qPCR. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion in vitro, as well as tumor growth in vivo, were determined by CCK-8, flow cytometry, migration and invasion assays, and xenograft models in nude mice, respectively. Bioinformatics analysis, luciferase reporter assays, RT-qPCR, and Western blot analysis were performed to investigate the relationship between miR-936 and fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2).

Results

miR-936 expression was significantly downregulated in EOC tissues and cell lines. Low miR-936 expression was found to be correlated with the tumor size, FIGO stage, and lymphatic metastasis in EOC patients. Functional experiments indicated that ectopic miR-936 expression suppressed EOC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion; promoted cell apoptosis; and decreased tumor growth in vivo. In addition, the FGF2 gene was verified to be a direct target of miR-936 in EOC cells. FGF2 expression levels were upregulated in EOC tissues and were inversely correlated with miR-936 expression. Furthermore, effects of FGF2 silencing were similar to those of miR-936 overexpression in EOC cells. Recovered FGF2 expression rescued the miR-936-induced inhibitory effects in EOC cells. Notably, miR-936 was able to deactivate the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in EOC cells by regulating FGF2 both in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusion

Altogether, our findings provided initial evidence that miR-936 inhibits the aggressiveness of EOC cells in vitro and in vivo, at least partially, by targeting FGF2-mediated suppression of the PI3K/Akt pathway. Therefore, the miR-936/FGF2/PI3K/Akt pathway is a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of EOC patients.

LncRNA WWC2-AS1 functions AS a novel competing endogenous RNA in the regulation of FGF2 expression by sponging miR-16 in radiation-induced intestinal fibrosis

Background

Recently, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) were considered as important gene expression regulators involving various biological processes. In this study, we explored the role of lncRNAs in the pathogenesis of radiation-induced intestinal fibrosis (RIF).

Methods

LncRNAs were screened by microarray (Human LncRNA Array v3.0, Arraystar, Inc.) and the differentially expressed lncRNAs in RIF and non-RIF were analyzed by bioinformatics methods. The expression of WWC2-AS1/miR-16/FGF2 axis was compared on mRNA and protein level between human intestinal CCD-18Co fibroblasts cell lines and subepithelial SEMFs in response to radiation treatment. The significance of WWC2-AS1 in regulating FGF2 associated proliferation, migration, invasion and fibrosis of CCD-18Co and SEMFs by exposure to radiation was analyzed by shRNA (WWC2-AS1 shRNA) knock-down of endogenous WWC2-AS1.

Results

WWC2-AS1 and FGF2 level was significantly higher while miR-16 was down-regulated in radiation-treated intestinal tissues. WWC2-AS1 more potently boosted FGF2 expression via reducing miR-16, and WWC2-AS1 shRNA remarkably inhibited FGF2 associated proliferation, migration, invasion and fibrosis of radiation treatment in vitro, further demonstrating physical interaction between miR-16 and WWC2-AS1 in radiation-induced fibrosis progress.

Conclusions

WWC2-AS1 was highly expressed in RIF, may function as a ceRNA in the regulation of FGF2 by binding miR-16. Targeting WWC2-AS1 thus may benefit radiation-induced fibrosis treatment.

miR-497 inhibits the carcinogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma by targeting the Rictor/Akt signal pathway

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in regulating various physiologic and pathologic processes of different human diseases including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Our research aimed to investigate the role of miR-497 in migration, invasive ability of HepG2-GS cells and the regulating mechanism. In this study, Rictor was identified as a target gene of miR-497 by informatic software, including Microcosm Targets, miRanda, and TargetScan. MiR-497 or Rictor were silenced or overexpressed in HepG2-GS cells through transfection. The functional assay results showed that Rictor knockdown inhibited cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Overexpression of Rictor inversed the effects of miR-497 on cancer cells growth inhibition. miR-497 regulated protein kinase B, PKB (Akt) signaling pathway by targeting Rictor. MiR-497 increased chemo-sensitivity of HepG2-GS through regulation of Rictor. In conclusion, our research demonstrated that miR-497 inhibits the proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and chemotherapy resistance of hepatoma cells by targeting of Rictor/Akt signal pathway, and miR-497. Thus, Rictor has the potential to be a explored as a biomarker or therapeutic target for diagnosis and treatment of HCC.

PPARβ/δ Agonist GW501516 Inhibits Tumorigenesis and Promotes Apoptosis of the Undifferentiated Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma C666-1 Cells by Regulating miR-206

In previous investigations, we reported that peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor β/δ (PPARβ/δ) activation by GW501516 inhibits proliferation and promotes apoptosis in the undifferentiated C666-1 nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) cells by modulating caspase-dependent apoptotic pathway. In the present study, the mechanism by which GW501516 induces apoptosis was explored from the perspective of microRNA (miRNA) expression. Among the assayed miRNAs that were involved in regulating the expression of antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2, miR-206 was increased significantly and specifically by GW501516 in C666-1 cells at both the in vitro level and at the in vivo xenograft samples. The induction on miR-206 expression caused by GW501516 was capable of being antagonized by the PPARβ/δ antagonist GSK3787 and AMPK antagonist dorsomorphin in C666-1 cells. GW501516's suppression on the growth and apoptosis of C666-1 cells was found to be dependent on the presence of miR-206. miR-206 overexpression resulted in suppressed proliferation and colony formation ability, and further triggered increased apoptosis in C666-1 cells in a caspase-dependent manner. The expression of cleaved caspase 3 and caspase 9, and the ratio of Bax to Bcl-2 were elevated remarkably by miR-206. Consistent with the in vitro result, miR-206 was corroborated to suppress the ectopic NPC xenograft tumorigenesis that derived from the C666-1 cells in BALB/c nu/nu mice. Taken together, the current data demonstrated that miR-206 plays a critical role in the direct apoptosis-promoting effect induced by GW501516 in C666-1 cells. Furthermore, the emphasized tumor-suppressive role of miR-206 in the C666-1 cells indicates that it has the potential to provide a new therapeutic approach for the undifferentiated NPC.

Tumour biomarkers-Tracing the molecular function and clinical implication

In recent years, with the increase in cancer mortality caused by metastasis, and with the development of individualized and precise medical treatment, early diagnosis with precision becomes the key to decrease the death rate. Since detecting tumour biomarkers in body fluids is the most non‐invasive way to identify the status of tumour development, it has been widely investigated for the usage in clinic. These biomarkers include different expression or mutation in microRNAs (miRNAs), circulating tumour DNAs (ctDNAs), proteins, exosomes and circulating tumour cells (CTCs). In the present article, we summarized and discussed some updated research on these biomarkers. We overviewed their biological functions and evaluated their multiple roles in human and small animal clinical treatment, including diagnosis of cancers, classification of cancers, prognostic and predictive values for therapy response, monitors for therapy efficacy, and anti‐cancer therapeutics. Biomarkers including different expression or mutation in miRNAs, ctDNAs, proteins, exosomes and CTCs provide more choice for early diagnosis of tumour detection at early stage before metastasis. Combination detection of these tumour biomarkers may provide higher accuracy at the lowest molecule combination number for tumour early detection. Moreover, tumour biomarkers can provide valuable suggestions for clinical anti‐cancer treatment and execute monitoring of treatment efficiency.

Upregulated gga-miR-16-5p Inhibits the Proliferation Cycle and Promotes the Apoptosis of MG-Infected DF-1 Cells by Repressing PIK3R1-Mediated the PI3K/Akt/NF-κB Pathway to Exert Anti-Inflammatory Effect

Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) mainly infects chickens to initiate chronic respiratory disease (CRD). microRNAs (miRNAs) play vital roles according to previously reported studies. Our previous study showed that gga-miR-16-5p, in MG-infected lungs of chicken embryo, was upregulated by Illumina sequencing. The study aimed to reveal what role gga-miR-16-5p plays in CRD progression. gga-miR-16-5p was upregulated in MG-infected fibroblast cells (DF-1). Phosphoinositide-3-kinase regulatory subunit 1 (PIK3R1) was demonstrated as the target gene of gga-miR-16-5p. Furthermore, PIK3R1 expression was lower in MG-infected groups than it in noninfected controls measured by qPCR. Additionally, overexpressed gga-miR-16-5p could downregulate PIK3R1 and phosphorylated serine/threonine kinase (p-Akt) to express protein, whereas there is an opposite effect on inhibition. Overexpressed gga-miR-16-5p resulted in decreased activity of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and the nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) by qPCR. Furthermore, overexpressed gga-miR-16-5p restricted cell multiplication, cycle progression, and increased apoptosis of MG-infected DF-1 cells, whereas inhibited gga-miR-16-5p led to the opposite effect. Collectively, upregulated gga-miR-16-5p could decrease multiplication, cycle progression, and increase apoptosis of MG-infected DF-1 cells, at least partly through directly targeting PIK3R1 and inhibiting PI3K/Akt/NF-κB pathway to exert an anti-inflammatory effect. Our results will provide more experimental evidence to bring pathogenesis of MG infection to light.

MicroRNA-497-5p inhibits proliferation and invasion of non-small cell lung cancer by regulating FGF2

Increasing number of microRNAs (miRNAs) have been reported to play an important role in the development and progression of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In particular, microRNA-497-5p (miR-497-5p) has been proposed as a tumor suppressor miRNA in human cancers. However, the role of miR-497-5p and its potential molecular mechanism associated with NSCLC are less studied. Therefore, the role of miR-497-5p in the pathogenesis of NSCLC was investigated. In the present study, the expression of miR-497-5p was significantly downregulated in NSCLC. Moreover, overexpression of miR-497-5p inhibited the proliferation and invasion of NSCLC cells by suppressing FGF2. In addition, FGF2 was a downstream target of miR-497-5p in NSCLC. FGF2 was upregulated in NSCLC promoting cell proliferation and invasion. Overexpression of FGF2 impaired the inhibitory effect of miR-497-5p in NSCLC. Taken together, these results demonstrate that miR-497-5p is a tumor suppressor miRNA and demonstrate its potential for future use in the treatment of human NSCLC.

miR-23a-3p suppresses cell proliferation in oral squamous cell carcinomas by targeting FGF2 and correlates with a better prognosis: miR-23a-3p inhibits OSCC growth by targeting FGF2

Oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCCs) are one of the most ubiquitous malignancies the world over, and are accompanied by a high mortality. microRNAs (miRNAs) have increasingly garnered attention with regards to the roles they play in initiation and progression of various kinds of cancers, including OSCC. It has been reported, that miR-23a-3p promotes the development of tumors for prostate cancer, gastric cancer and gliomas. The functions of miR-23a-3p in OSCC however, remain unclear. In this study, fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) is revealed as a direct target of miR-23a-3p, based on luciferase assays and immunoblotting. The expression of miR-23a-3p and FGF2 were found to be significantly downregulated and upregulated in OSCC tissues respectively. This indicates a reverse correlation between miR-23a-3p and FGF2 levels. Using in vitro approaches we ascertained that miR-23a-3p might contribute to the inhibition of growth and inhibition through increasing apoptosis in OSCC cells; while an inhibitor of miR-23a-3p could reverse this effect. Examination of a clinical cohort of OSCC patients suggested that reduced expression of miR-23a-3p is correlated with more advanced cancerous stage and poorer differentiation of OSCC cell. Additionally, a survival analysis and the Cox-hazard regression model showed that higher levels of miR-23a-3p can be used reliably for prognosis of OSCC patients. This study indicates that miR-23a-3p might suppress tumor proliferation, invasion and promote apoptosis of OSCC by targeting FGF2. miR-23a-3p has the potential to be used as prognostic indicator, and could be exploited as a therapeutic reagent for OSCC in the future.

FGF9/FGFR2 increase cell proliferation by activating ERK1/2, Rb/E2F1, and cell cycle pathways in mouse Leydig tumor cells

Fibroblast growth factor 9 (FGF9) promotes cancer progression; however, its role in cell proliferation related to tumorigenesis remains elusive. We investigated how FGF9 affected MA‐10 mouse Leydig tumor cell proliferation and found that FGF9 significantly induced cell proliferation by activating ERK1/2 and retinoblastoma (Rb) phosphorylations within 15 minutes. Subsequently, the expressions of E2F1 and the cell cycle regulators: cyclin D1, cyclin E1 and cyclin‐dependent kinase 4 (CDK4) in G₁ phase and cyclin A1, CDK2 and CDK1 in S‐G₂/M phases were increased at 12 hours after FGF9 treatment; and cyclin B1 in G₂/M phases were induced at 24 hours after FGF9 stimulation, whereas the phosphorylations of p53, p21 and p27 were not affected by FGF9. Moreover, FGF9‐induced effects were inhibited by MEK inhibitor PD98059, indicating FGF9 activated the Rb/E2F pathway to accelerate MA‐10 cell proliferation by activating ERK1/2. Immunoprecipitation assay and ChIP‐quantitative PCR results showed that FGF9‐induced Rb phosphorylation led to the dissociation of Rb‐E2F1 complexes and thereby enhanced the transactivations of E2F1 target genes, Cyclin D1, Cyclin E1 and Cyclin A1. Silencing of FGF receptor 2 (FGFR2) using lentiviral shRNA inhibited FGF9‐induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation and cell proliferation, indicating that FGFR2 is the obligate receptor for FGF9 to bind and activate the signaling pathway in MA‐10 cells. Furthermore, in a severe combined immunodeficiency mouse xenograft model, FGF9 significantly promoted MA‐10 tumor growth, a consequence of increased cell proliferation and decreased apoptosis. Conclusively, FGF9 interacts with FGFR2 to activate ERK1/2, Rb/E2F1 and cell cycle pathways to induce MA‐10 cell proliferation in vitro and tumor growth in vivo.

MicroRNA-185 inhibits cell proliferation while promoting apoptosis and autophagy through negative regulation of TGF-β1/mTOR axis and HOXC6 in nasopharyngeal carcinoma

OBJECTIVE

Accumulating studies have revealed that microRNAs (miRs) play a critical role in the development and progression of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), which is a disease with a remarkable racial and geographical distribution. In our study, through the alteration in the expression of microRNA-185 (miR-185) in NPC cells by microarray-based gene expression profiling, we subsequently evaluated its ability to influence NPC cells and associated mechanism.

METHODS

The expressions of miR-185 and HOXC6 in NPC and paracancerous tissues collected from patients with NPC were detected. The CNE-2 cells with the lowest miR-185 among the five NPC cell lines (CNE-1, CNE-2, HNE-1, HNE-2, and 5-8F) were selected and transfected with a series of mimic or inhibitor of miR-185, or shRNA-against HOXC6. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to analyze the survival of patients. Besides, the reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and western blot analysis were used to determine the levels of related genes/proteins. By means of cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, transwell assay, flow cytometry, and AO staining, the influences miR-185 has on the processes associated with NPC, including cell proliferation, invasion, apoptosis and autophagy were evaluated.

RESULTS

NPC was observed to decrease miR-185 but increase HOXC6. Dual luciferase reporter gene assay demonstrated that HOXC6 is a target gene of miR-185. Increased mRNA and protein levels of Bax, caspase-3, LC3 and Beclin1 and reduced levels of HOXC6, TGF-β1, mTOR, Cyclin D1, PCNA, Bcl-2 were found by overexpression of miR-185. High expression of miR-185 and low expression of HOXC6 had longer survival time of NPC patients. Overexpressed miR-185 enhanced cell apoptosis and autophagy, and reduced cell proliferation and invasion, while miR-185 inhibitor was observed to have induced effects on the CNE-2 cells.

CONCLUSION

Overall, the data show that miR-185 could negatively target HOXC6 to suppress cell proliferation, promotes apoptosis and autophagy through inhibiting TGF-β1/mTOR axis in NPC. Thus, miR-185 is useful strategy for the treatment of NPC.

The miR-15a/16 gene cluster in human cancer: A systematic review

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are an important class of endogenous small noncoding single-stranded RNAs that suppress the expression of their target genes through messenger RNA (mRNA) degradation to inhibit transcription and translation. MiRNAs play a crucial regulatory role in many biological processes including proliferation, metabolism, and cellular malignancy. miR-15a/16 is an important tumor suppressor gene cluster with a variety of factors that regulate its transcriptional activity. It has been discovered that a relative reduction of miR-15a/16 expression in various cancers is closely related to the occurrence and progression of tumors. miR-15a/16 takes part in a wide array of biological processes including tumor cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and chemoresistance by binding to the 3'-untranslated region of its target gene's mRNA. In this review, we will examine the complex regulatory network of miR-15a/16 gene expression and its biological functions in human cancers to further elucidate the molecular mechanisms of its antitumor effects.

Onset and Progression of Human Osteoarthritis-Can Growth Factors, Inflammatory Cytokines, or Differential miRNA Expression Concomitantly Induce Proliferation, ECM Degradation, and Inflammation in Articular Cartilage?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative whole joint disease, for which no preventative or therapeutic biological interventions are available. This is likely due to the fact that OA pathogenesis includes several signaling pathways, whose interactions remain unclear, especially at disease onset. Early OA is characterized by three key events: a rarely considered early phase of proliferation of cartilage-resident cells, in contrast to well-established increased synthesis, and degradation of extracellular matrix components and inflammation, associated with OA progression. We focused on the question, which of these key events are regulated by growth factors, inflammatory cytokines, and/or miRNA abundance. Collectively, we elucidated a specific sequence of the OA key events that are described best as a very early phase of proliferation of human articular cartilage (AC) cells and concomitant anabolic/catabolic effects that are accompanied by incipient pro-inflammatory effects. Many of the reviewed factors appeared able to induce one or two key events. Only one factor, fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2), is capable of concomitantly inducing all key events. Moreover, AC cell proliferation cannot be induced and, in fact, is suppressed by inflammatory signaling, suggesting that inflammatory signaling cannot be the sole inductor of all early OA key events, especially at disease onset.

Harnessing an Inhibitory Role of miR-16 in Osteogenesis by Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Advanced Scaffold-Based Bone Tissue Engineering

MicroRNA (miRNA) therapeutics is increasingly being developed to either target bone-related diseases such as osteoporosis and osteoarthritis or as the basis for novel bone tissue engineering strategies. A number of miRNAs have been reported as potential osteo-therapeutics but no consensus has yet been established on the optimal target. miR-16 has been studied extensively in nonosteogenic functions and used as functionality reporter target in the development of nonviral miRNA delivery platforms. This study hypothesized that miR-16 may also play an inhibitory role in osteogenesis due to its ability to directly target Smad5 and AcvR2a. This study thus aimed to assess the potential of miR-16 inhibition to increase osteogenesis in human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) using a previously established miRNA delivery platform composed of nanohydroxyapatite (nHA) particles as nonviral vectors in combination with collagen-nHA scaffolds designed specifically for bone repair. Initial results showed that antagomiR-16 delivery efficiently increased the relative levels of both putative targets and Runx2, the key transcription factor for osteogenesis, while also increasing osteocalcin levels. Furthermore, significant increases in mineral calcium deposition by hMSCs were found in both monolayer and most importantly in scaffold-based osteodifferentiation studies, ultimately demonstrating that miR-16 inhibition further enhances the therapeutic potential of a scaffold with known potential for bone repair applications and thus holds significant therapeutic potential as a novel bone tissue engineering strategy. Furthermore, we suggest that harnessing the additional functions known to miR-16 by incorporating either its enhancers or inhibitors to tissue-specific tailored scaffolds provides exciting opportunities for a diverse range of therapeutic indications.

Piperine depresses the migration progression via downregulating the Akt/mTOR/MMP‑9 signaling pathway in DU145 cells

Piperine, an alkaloid derived from natural products, has been demonstrated to exert antitumor activities in vivo and in vitro. However, its anti-tumor effect has not yet been illustrated in the prostate cancer (PCa) metastatic process. Thus, the present study explored the influence of piperine on PCa and the underlying molecular mechanism. Cell migration was detected via the Transwell chamber model. Total protein was identified by western blot analysis. The data revealed that piperine markedly repressed cell proliferation and migration, and induced apoptosis in PCa DU145. In addition, LY294002, an protein kinase B (Akt) inhibitor, greatly suppressed the expression level of phospho (p)-Akt, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 and p-mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), suggesting that the activation of the Akt/mTOR/MMP-9 signaling pathway may participate in regulating cell migration in PCa. Furthermore, piperine reduced the expression of p-Akt, MMP-9 and p-mTOR. Together, these data indicated that piperine may serve as a promising novel therapeutic agent to better overcome PCa metastasis.

UBE2T promotes nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis by activating the AKT/GSK3β/β-catenin pathway

Increasing evidence has shown that UBE2T plays an important role in genomic integrity and carcinogenesis; however, its role in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) has not been investigated. Here, we evaluated the clinicopathological significance of UBE2T in NPC and its underlying mechanisms. Using immunohistochemical analysis of UBE2T expression in NPC samples, we demonstrated that UBE2T is highly expressed in NPC tissues, which correlated with the T/M classification, skull invasion, and poor prognosis. The in vitro assay showed that UBE2T overexpression promoted proliferation, migration, and invasion of NPC cells, while UBE2T knockdown inhibited these processes. Consistent with our in vitro results, in vivo studies indicated that UBE2T overexpression promoted the growth of NPC xenografts and NPC cell metastasis. We found that UBE2T overexpression activated, whereas UBE2T knockdown inhibited, the AKT/GSK3β/β-catenin pathway. Moreover, the pathway-activation and in vitro pro-metastasis effects of UBE2T were blocked by the AKT inhibitor, MK-2206 2HCl. Additionally, UBE2T and p-GSK3 β co-expressed in NPC samples by serial section, and their expressions are correlated. Collectively, our findings demonstrated that UBE2T is a possible diagnostic/prognostic biomarker for NPC and may promote the development and progression of NPC by activating the AKT/GSK3β/β-catenin pathway. Thus, UBE2T could serve as an alternative target for the treatment of NPC.

miR-93 enhances cell proliferation by directly targeting CDKN1A in nasopharyngeal carcinoma

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is an epithelial malignancy of the head and neck with the highest incidence rate in southern China. The aim of the present study was to understand the molecular mechanisms that underlie the progression of NPC. The relative expression of miR-93 and CDKN1A was detected by the reverse-transcription quantitative PCR. Western blot analysis was applied to detect the protein levels of genes. Luciferase activity report was applied to verify the target of miRNA. Cell growth was assayed by using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. miR-93 was upregulated in NPC tissues and cell lines compared with normal samples. Re-expression of miR-93 promoted cell growth in vitro as determined by the MTT assay. CDKN1A was identified by luciferase reporter as a direct target of miR-93. Its expression was downregulated by miR-93. Furthermore, the results showed that the expression of miR-93 was inversely correlated with the expression of CDKN1A protein. miR-93 enhanced cell proliferation in NPC by directly targeting CDKN1A. It is suggested that miR-93/CDKN1A axis may present a new target for the treatment of NPC.

A link between the fibroblast growth factor axis and the miR-16 family reveals potential new treatment combinations in mesothelioma

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is an aggressive malignancy with very limited therapeutic options. Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signals play important roles in mesothelioma cell growth. Several FGFs and FGF receptors (FGFRs) are predicted targets of the miR‐15/16 family, which is downregulated in MPM. The aim of this study was to explore the link between the miR‐15/16 family and the FGF axis in MPM. Expression analyses via RT‐qPCR showed downregulation of the FGF axis after transfection with miR‐15/16 mimics. Direct interaction was confirmed by luciferase reporter assays. Restoration of miR‐15/16 led to dose‐dependent growth inhibition in MPM cell lines, which significantly correlated with their sensitivity to FGFR inhibition. Treatment with recombinant FGF2 prevented growth inhibition and further reduced the levels of FGF/R‐targeting microRNAs, indicating a vicious cycle between miR‐15/16 down‐ and FGF/FGFR signaling upregulation. Combined inhibition of two independent miR‐15/16 targets, the FGF axis and Bcl‐2, resulted in additive or synergistic activity. Our data indicate that post‐transcriptional repression of FGF‐mediated signals contributes to the tumor suppressor function of the microRNA‐15/16 family. Inhibiting hyperactivated FGF signals and Bcl‐2 might serve as a novel therapeutic combination strategy in MPM.

Comprehensive bioinformatics analysis of the mRNA profile of PLCE1 knockdown in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

The authors previously reported that Phospholipase C epsilon 1 (PLCE1) exacerbated esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), however, the underlying mechanism remains to be fully elucidated. The present study aimed to identify key differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and signaling pathways regulated by PLCE1 in ESCC. EC9706 and Eca109 cell lines were transfected with the specific small interfering (si) RNA of PLCE1, reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‑qPCR) and western blotting were performed to detect the expression levels of PLCE1, and subsequently, mRNA array and multiple bioinformatics analysis were conducted. RT‑qPCR was used to verify gene expression array results. The findings of the present study indicated that PLCE1 mRNA and protein expression were significantly suppressed (P<0.05) in the PLCE1 siRNA‑transfected cells. In addition, a total of 223 DEGs with >2‑fold alterations were screened between the PLCE1 siRNA‑treated cells, including 168 upregulated and 53 downregulated DEGs. In particular, inflammation or immune‑associated molecules, including Toll‑like receptor (TLR)‑4 interleukin‑6, ‑8 and chemokine C‑X‑C motif ligand 2 were significantly increased following PLCE1 knockdown. Furthermore, Gene Ontology enrichment revealed terms associated with cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, signal transduction, invasion and metastasis, which may potentially be associated with PLCE1 function. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis demonstrated 46 pathways were disturbed by DEGs, including focal adhesion, mitogen activated protein kinase, TLR, p53 and janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription signaling pathways. The RT‑qPCR results for validation of the selected DEGs were consistent with that of the microarray data. Overall, the results of the multiple bioinformatic analysis contributes to a systematic understanding of the roles of PLCE1 in ESCC.

MiR-130a-3p inhibits the viability, proliferation, invasion, and cell cycle, and promotes apoptosis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells by suppressing BACH2 expression

The aim of the present study was to explore the mechanism through which miR-130a-3p affects the viability, proliferation, migration, and invasion of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Tissue samples were collected from the hospital department. NPC cell lines were purchased to conduct the in vitro and in vivo assays. A series of biological assays including MTT, Transwell, and wound healing assays were conducted to investigate the effects of miR-130a-3p and BACH2 on NPC cells. MiR-130a-3p was down-regulated in both NPC tissues and cell lines, whereas BACH2 was up-regulated in both tissues and cell lines. MiR-130a-3p overexpression inhibited NPC cell viability, proliferation, migration, and invasion but promoted cell apoptosis. The converse was true of BACH2, the down-regulation of which could inhibit the corresponding cell abilities and promote apoptosis of NPC cells. The target relationship between miR-130a-3p and BACH2 was confirmed. The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) pathway was also influenced by miR-130a-3p down-regulation. In conclusion, miR-130a-3p could bind to BACH2, inhibit NPC cell abilities, and promote cell apoptosis.

Tumor angiogenesis revisited: Regulators and clinical implications

Since Judah Folkman hypothesized in 1971 that angiogenesis is required for solid tumor growth, numerous studies have been conducted to unravel the angiogenesis process, analyze its role in primary tumor growth, metastasis and angiogenic diseases, and to develop inhibitors of proangiogenic factors. These studies have led in 2004 to the approval of the first antiangiogenic agent (bevacizumab, a humanized antibody targeting vascular endothelial growth factor) for the treatment of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. This approval launched great expectations for the use of antiangiogenic therapy for malignant diseases. However, these expectations have not been met and, as knowledge of blood vessel formation accumulates, many of the original paradigms no longer hold. Therefore, the regulators and clinical implications of angiogenesis need to be revisited. In this review, we discuss recently identified angiogenesis mediators and pathways, new concepts that have emerged over the past 10 years, tumor resistance and toxicity associated with the use of currently available antiangiogenic treatment and potentially new targets and/or approaches for malignant and nonmalignant neovascular diseases.

Suppression of miR-16 promotes tumor growth and metastasis through reversely regulating YAP1 in human cholangiocarcinoma

Background & Aims

Aberrant expression of microRNAs is associated with many cancers progression. Many studies have shown that miR-16 is down-regulated in many cancers. However, its role in cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is unknown.

Methods

Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was developed to measure miR-16 expression in CCA tissues and cell lines. CCK-8, colony formation and transwell assays were used to reveal the role of miR-16 in CCA cell proliferation and malignant transformation in vitro. The loss-and-gain function was further validated by subcutaneous xenotransplantation and tail vein injection xenotransplantation model in vivo. Dual-luciferase reporter assay was performed to validate the relationship of miR-16 with YAP1.

Results

MiR-16 was notably downregulated in CCA tissues, which was associated with tumor size, metastasis, and TNM stage. Both in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrated that miR-16 could suppress proliferation, invasion and metastasis throughout the progression of CCA. We further identified YAP1 as a direct target gene of miR-16 and found that miR-16 could regulate CCA cell growth and invasion in a YAP1-dependent manner. In addition, YAP1 was markedly upregulated in CCA tissues, which was reversely correlated with miR-16 level in tissue samples. Besides, Down-regulation of miR-16 was remarkably associated with tumor progression and poor survival in CCA patients through a Kaplan–Meier survival analysis.

Conclusions

miR-16, as a novel tumor suppressor in CCA through directly targeting YAP1, might be a promising therapeutic target or prognosis biomarker for CCA.

miR‑150 inhibits proliferation and tumorigenicity via retarding G1/S phase transition in nasopharyngeal carcinoma

Cancer cells are characterized by a pathological manifestation of uncontrolled proliferation, which results in tumor formation. Therefore, it is necessary to improve understanding of the underlying mechanism of cell cycle control. Here, we report that miR-150 is downregulated in nasopharyngeal carcinoma tissues and cells. Upregulation of miR-150 suppresses nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) cell proliferation and induces G₁/S arrest in vitro, and inhibits tumorigenesis in vivo. Conversely, silencing miR-150 yields the opposite effect. Our results further demonstrate that miR-150 retards nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell proliferation and G₁/S transition via targeting multiple cell cycle-related genes, including CCND1, CCND2, CDK2 and CCNE2. Therefore, our results uncover a novel mechanistic understanding of miR-150-mediated tumor suppression in NPC, which will facilitate the development of effective cancer therapies against nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

Roles of microRNAs in cancer associated fibroblasts of gastric cancer

Cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a key component of the tumor microenvironment (TME). They play critical roles in the occurrence and development of gastric cancer (GC) through controlling various cytokines secretion and direct cell-to-cell interaction. However, the underlying mechanism of CAFs in tumor progression has not been entirely elucidated. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) as important factors have a central role in the interplay between tumor cell and TME. Recent studies also highlight that the aberrant expression of miRNAs in CAFs is involved in multiple functions in tumorigenesis and malignant process of GC. In this article, we shortly introduce the miRNAs biogenesis and provide an overview of the mechanisms and emerging roles of CAFs-related miRNAs. Focusing on these miRNAs as potential therapeutic targets may bring better treatment effect on GC and other diseases.

A short insertion mutation disrupts genesis of miR-16 and causes increased body weight in domesticated chicken

Body weight is one of the most important quantitative traits with high heritability in chicken. We previously mapped a quantitative trait locus (QTL) for body weight by genome-wide association study (GWAS) in an F2 chicken resource population. To identify the causal mutations linked to this QTL, expression profiles were determined on livers of high-weight and low-weight chicken lines by microarray. Combining the expression pattern with SNP effects by GWAS, miR-16 was identified as the most likely potential candidate with a 3.8-fold decrease in high-weight lines. Re-sequencing revealed that a 54-bp insertion mutation in the upstream region of miR-15a-16 displayed high allele frequencies in high-weight commercial broiler line. This mutation resulted in lower miR-16 expression by introducing three novel splicing sites instead of the missing 5′ terminal splicing of mature miR-16. Elevating miR-16 significantly inhibited DF-1 chicken embryo cell proliferation, consistent with a role in suppression of cellular growth. The 54-bp insertion was significantly associated with increased body weight, bone size and muscle mass. Also, the insertion mutation tended towards fixation in commercial broilers (Fst > 0.4). Our findings revealed a novel causative mutation for body weight regulation that aids our basic understanding of growth regulation in birds.

The novel miR-9501 inhibits cell proliferation, migration and activates apoptosis in non-small cell lung cancer

Accumulating evidences suggest that lots of microRNAs (miRNAs) play crucial roles in (patho-)physiological processes of lung cancer, including metastasis, drug-resistance or tumorigenesis. They mediate the progression of cell growth, migration and invasion by regulating the expression of special genes. MiRNA expression patterns could also serve as diagnostic/prognostic biomarkers. Cancer therapies mediated by miRNAs remain tremendous potential and challenges. Our previous small RNA-seq assay found that the novel miR-9501 was down-regulated in lung cancer tissues compared with adjacent non-cancer tissues. In this study, our results verified that miR-9501 was significantly down-regulated in lung cancer tissues and its expression levels were remarkably suppressed in non-small cell lung cancer cell lines. Then, we characterized and investigated the novel miR-9501 in A549 cells. Transient transfection of miR-9501 into cultured A549 cells led to remarkable decrease in cell proliferation, migration and increase apoptosis. These data demonstrated that miR-9501 might be a tumor suppressor for lung cancer therapy.

CHIP promotes thyroid cancer proliferation via activation of the MAPK and AKT pathways

The carboxyl terminus of Hsp70-interacting protein (CHIP) is a U box-type ubiquitin ligase that plays crucial roles in various biological processes, including tumor progression. To date, the functional mechanism of CHIP in thyroid cancer remains unknown. Here, we obtained evidence of upregulation of CHIP in thyroid cancer tissues and cell lines. CHIP overexpression markedly enhanced thyroid cancer cell viability and colony formation in vitro and accelerated tumor growth in vivo. Conversely, CHIP knockdown impaired cell proliferation and tumor growth. Notably, CHIP promoted cell growth through activation of MAPK and AKT pathways, subsequently decreasing p27 and increasing cyclin D1 and p-FOXO3a expression. Our findings collectively indicate that CHIP functions as an oncogene in thyroid cancer, and is therefore a potential therapeutic target for this disease.