Zinc finger protein ZBTB20 is an independent prognostic marker and promotes tumor growth of human hepatocellular carcinoma by repressing FoxO1

ZBTB20 suppresses tumor growth in glioblastoma through activating the TET1/FAS/caspase‑3 pathway

Zinc finger and BTB domain containing 20 (ZBTB20) is a key transcription repressor that regulates multiple physiological and pathophysiological processes. Thus far, the role of ZBTB20 in glioblastoma (GBM), a World Health Organization grade IV glioma, remains unclear. In the present study, the expression profile data of ZBTB20 in GBM tissues from public databases was analyzed. It was found that ZBTB20 expression in GBM tissues was significantly lower than that measured in lower grade glioma tissues. Furthermore, patients with GBM with lower ZBTB20 expression were associated with a shorter overall survival time. Gain- and loss-of-function experiments in GBM cells were also performed. The results demonstrated that ZBTB20 overexpression decreased GBM cell proliferation, while ZBTB20 knockdown significantly enhanced it. Cell cycle analysis showed the ZBTB20 overexpression may have inhibited proliferation through cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase, while ZBTB20 knockdown increased the percentages of cells in both the S phase and G2/M phase. Ten-eleven translocation 1 (TET1) is an important tumor suppressor involved in the formation of various types of tumor, and it was upregulated in ZBTB20-overexpressing GBM cells. It was further demonstrated that ZBTB20 activated the TET1/FAS/caspase-3 pathway. The results of the present study therefore indicated the potential role of ZBTB20 as a tumor suppressor and therapeutic target for GBM.

Zinc Finger and BTB Domain-Containing 20: A Newly Emerging Player in Pathogenesis and Development of Human Cancers

Zinc finger and BTB domain-containing 20 (ZBTB20), which was initially identified in human dendritic cells, belongs to a family of transcription factors (TFs) with an N-terminal BTB domain and one or more C-terminal DNA-binding zinc finger domains. Under physiological conditions, ZBTB20 acts as a transcriptional repressor in cellular development and differentiation, metabolism, and innate immunity. Interestingly, multiple lines of evidence from mice and human systems have revealed the importance of ZBTB20 in the pathogenesis and development of cancers. ZBTB20 is not only a hotspot of genetic variation or fusion in many types of human cancers, but also a key TF or intermediator involving in the dysregulation of cancer cells. Given the diverse functions of ZBTB20 in both health and disease, we herein summarize the structure and physiological roles of ZBTB20, with an emphasis on the latest findings on tumorigenesis and cancer progression.

SPOP regulates the expression profiles and alternative splicing events in human hepatocytes

Speckle type BTB/POZ protein (SPOP) may have cancer promoting or inhibiting effects. At present, the role of SPOP in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has rarely been studied. In this study, to investigate the effects of SPOP in HCC and elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms of its relationship with genes, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were classified through RNA sequencing. The gene ontology analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes functional pathway analysis were used to further predict the function of DEGs after the overexpression of SPOP. The biological function of SPOP-regulated alternative splicing events in cells is comprehensively assessed. The Cancer Genome Atlas database and Gene Expression Omnibus dataset were performed to evaluate the correlation between SPOP and HCC progression. Due to SPOP overexpression, 56 DEGs in the HCC related pathway were further identified. The results showed that SPOP overexpression facilitated the cell proliferation and changed the gene expression profiles of human normal hepatocytes. SPOP-regulated alternative splicing events were involved in pathways associated with cellular processes, metabolism, environmental information procession, organismal systems, and so on. In conclusion, SPOP may potentially exhibit tumor-promoting effects, necessitating further investigations to unveil its molecular mechanisms comprehensively.

Normalization of the ATP1A1 Signalosome Rescinds Epigenetic Modifications and Induces Cell Autophagy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. In metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH)-related HCC, cellular redox imbalance from metabolic disturbances leads to dysregulation of the α1-subunit of the Na/K-ATPase (ATP1A1) signalosome. We have recently reported that the normalization of this pathway exhibited tumor suppressor activity in MASH-HCC. We hypothesized that dysregulated signaling from the ATP1A1, mediated by cellular metabolic stress, promotes aberrant epigenetic modifications including abnormal post-translational histone modifications and dysfunctional autophagic activity, leading to HCC development and progression. Increased H3K9 acetylation (H3K9ac) and H3K9 tri-methylation (H3K9me3) were observed in human HCC cell lines, HCC-xenograft and MASH-HCC mouse models, and epigenetic changes were associated with decreased cell autophagy in HCC cell lines. Inhibition of the pro-autophagic transcription factor FoxO1 was associated with elevated protein carbonylation and decreased levels of reduced glutathione (GSH). In contrast, normalization of the ATP1A1 signaling significantly decreased H3K9ac and H3K9me3, in vitro and in vivo, with concomitant nuclear localization of FoxO1, heightening cell autophagy and cancer-cell apoptotic activities in treated HCC cell lines. Our results showed the critical role of the ATP1A1 signalosome in HCC development and progression through epigenetic modifications and impaired cell autophagy activity, highlighting the importance of the ATP1A1 pathway as a potential therapeutic target for HCC.

Transcription Factor Zbtb20 as a Regulator of Malignancy and Its Practical Applications

Zbtb20 (zinc finger and BTB domain-containing protein 20) is a transcription factor with a zinc finger DNA binding domain and a BTB domain responsible for protein-protein interaction. Recently, this TF has received attention because new data showed its pivotal involvement in normal neural development and its regulatory effects on proliferation and differentiation in different tissues. Zbtb20 was shown to increase proliferation and migration and confer resistance to apoptosis in the contexts of many malignant tumors like hepatocellular carcinoma, non-small-cell lung carcinoma, gastric adenocarcinoma, glioblastoma multiforme, breast cancer, and acute myeloid leukemia. The involvement of Zbtb20 in tumor biology is best studied in hepatocellular carcinoma, where it is a promising candidate as an immunohistochemical tumor marker or may be used in patient screening. Here we review the current data connecting Zbtb20 with malignant tumors.

ZNF320 is a hypomethylated prognostic biomarker involved in immune infiltration of hepatocellular carcinoma and associated with cell cycle

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most deadly and common malignant cancers around the world, and the prognosis of HCC patients is not optimistic. ZNF320 belongs to Krüppel like zinc finger gene family. However, no studies have focused on the influence of ZNF320 in HCC. We first analyzed ZNF320 expression in HCC by using data from TCGA and ICGC, then conducted a joint analysis with TIMER and UALCAN, and validated by immunohistochemistry in clinical HCC samples. Then we applied UALCAN to explore the correlation between ZNF320 expression and clinicopathological characteristics. Consequently, using Kaplan-Meier Plotter analysis and the Cox regression, we can predict the prognostic value of ZNF320 for HCC patients. Next, the analysis by GO, KEGG, and GSEA revealed that ZNF320 was significantly correlated to cell cycle and immunity. Finally, TIMER and GEPIA analysis verified that ZNF320 expression is closely related to tumor infiltrating immune cells (TIIC), including B cells, CD8+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, macrophages, neutrophils, and dendritic cells. The analysis of the TCGA and ICGC data sets revealed that ZNF320 expression was significantly correlated with m6A related genes (RBMX, YTHDF1, and METTL3). In conclusion, ZNF320 may be a prognostic biomarker related to immunity as a candidate for liver cancer.

Expression of Transcription Factor ZBTB20 in the Adult Primate Neurogenic Niche under Physiological Conditions or after Ischemia

The Zbtb20 gene encodes for a transcription factor that plays an important role in mammalian cortical development. Recently, its expression was reported in the adult mouse subventricular zone (SVZ), a major neurogenic niche containing neural stem cells throughout life. Here, we analyzed its expression in the adult primate anterior SVZ (SVZa) and rostral migratory stream (RMS) using macaque monkeys (Macaca fuscata). We report that the majority of Ki67+ cells, 71.4% in the SVZa and 85.7% in the RMS, co-label for ZBTB20. Nearly all neuroblasts, identified by their Doublecortin expression, were positive for ZBTB20 in both regions. Nearly all GFAP+ neural stem cells/astrocytes were also positive for ZBTB20. Analysis of images derived from a public database of gene expression in control/ischemic monkey SVZa, showed evidence for ZBTB20 upregulation in postischemic monkey SVZa. Furthermore, the co-localization of ZBTB20 with Doublecortin and Ki67 was increased in the postischemic SVZa. Our results suggest that ZBTB20 expression is evolutionarily conserved in the mammalian neurogenic niche and is reactive to ischemia. This opens the possibility for further functional studies on the role of this transcription factor in neurogenesis in primates.

The Emerging Influences of Alpha-Fetoprotein in the Tumorigenesis and Progression of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth most common cancer worldwide, and its mortality rate is the third-highest, after lung cancer and colorectal cancer. Currently, systematic targeted therapies for HCC mainly include multiple kinase inhibitors and immunotherapy. However, these drugs carry a black-box warning about the potential for inducing severe toxicity, and they do not significantly prolong the survival period of patients due to the highly heterogeneous characteristics of HCC etiology. In order to improve the prediction, effective treatment and prognosis of HCC, the tools and different biomarkers in clinical practices are recommended. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is the earliest and the most widely used serum marker in the detection of HCC. Interestingly, serum AFP and cytoplasmic AFP show different, even opposite, roles in the cancer progression of HCC. This review focuses on biological characteristics, regulatory mechanisms for gene expression, emerging influences of AFP in HCC and its possible implications in HCC-targeted therapy.

Role of Forkhead Box O Proteins in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Biology and Progression (Review)

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common type of malignant tumor of the digestive system, is associated with high morbidity and mortality. The main treatment for HCC is surgical resection. Advanced disease, recurrence, and metastasis are the main factors affecting prognosis. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are not sufficiently efficacious for the treatment of primary and metastatic HCC; therefore, optimizing targeted therapy is essential for improving outcomes. Forkhead box O (FOXO) proteins are widely expressed in cells and function to integrate a variety of growth factors, oxidative stress signals, and other stimulatory signals, thereby inducing the specific expression of downstream signal factors and regulation of the cell cycle, senescence, apoptosis, oxidative stress, HCC development, and chemotherapy sensitivity. Accordingly, FOXO proteins are considered multifunctional targets of cancer treatment. The current review discusses the roles of FOXO proteins, particularly FOXO1, FOXO3, FOXO4, and FOXO6, in HCC and establishes a theoretical basis for the potential targeted therapy of HCC.

Massive parallel sequencing in a family with rectal cancer

Background

We have previously reported a family with a suspected autosomal dominant rectal and gastric cancer syndrome without any obvious causative genetic variant. Here, we focused the study on a potentially isolated rectal cancer syndrome in this family.

Methods

We included seven family members (six obligate carriers). Whole-exome sequencing and whole-genome sequencing data were analyzed and filtered for shared coding and splicing sequence and structural variants among the affected individuals.

Results

When considering family members with rectal cancer or advanced adenomas as affected, we found six new potentially cancer-associated variants in the genes CENPB, ZBTB20, CLINK, LRRC26, TRPM1, and NPEPL1. All variants were missense variants and none of the genes have previously been linked to inherited rectal cancer. No structural variant was found.

Conclusion

By massive parallel sequencing in a family suspected of carrying a highly penetrant rectal cancer predisposing genetic variant, we found six genetic missense variants with a potential connection to the rectal cancer in this family. One of them could be a high-risk genetic variant, or one or more of them could be low risk variants. The p.(Glu438Lys) variant in the CENPB gene was found to be of particular interest. The CENPB protein binds DNA and helps form centromeres during mitosis. It is involved in the WNT signaling pathway, which is critical for colorectal cancer development and its role in inherited rectal cancer needs to be further examined.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13053-021-00181-2.

MicroRNAs Regulating Cytoskeleton Dynamics, Endocytosis, and Cell Motility-A Link Between Neurodegeneration and Cancer?

The cytoskeleton is one of the most mobile and complex cell structures. It is involved in cellular transport, cell division, cell shape formation and adaptation in response to extra- and intracellular stimuli, endo- and exocytosis, migration, and invasion. These processes are crucial for normal cellular physiology and are affected in several pathological processes, including neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer. Some proteins, participating in clathrin-mediated endocytosis (CME), play an important role in actin cytoskeleton reorganization, and formation of invadopodia in cancer cells and are also deregulated in neurodegenerative disorders. However, there is still limited information about the factors contributing to the regulation of their expression. MicroRNAs are potent negative regulators of gene expression mediating crosstalk between different cellular pathways in cellular homeostasis and stress responses. These molecules regulate numerous genes involved in neuronal differentiation, plasticity, and degeneration. Growing evidence suggests the role of microRNAs in the regulation of endocytosis, cell motility, and invasiveness. By modulating the levels of such microRNAs, it may be possible to interfere with CME or other processes to normalize their function. In malignancy, the role of microRNAs is undoubtful, and therefore changing their levels can attenuate the carcinogenic process. Here we review the current advances in our understanding of microRNAs regulating actin cytoskeleton dynamics, CME and cell motility with a special focus on neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer. We investigate whether current literature provides an evidence that microRNA-mediated regulation of essential cellular processes, such as CME and cell motility, is conserved in neurons, and cancer cells. We argue that more research effort should be addressed to study the neuron-specific functions on microRNAs. Disease-associated microRNAs affecting essential cellular processes deserve special attention both from the view of fundamental science and as future neurorestorative or anti-cancer therapies.

Zinc Finger Protein ZBTB20 protects against cardiac remodelling post-myocardial infarction via ROS-TNFα/ASK1/JNK pathway regulation

This study aims to determine the efficacy of Zinc finger protein ZBTB20 in treatment of post‐infarction cardiac remodelling. For this purpose, left anterior descending (LAD) ligation was operated on mice to induce myocardial infarction (MI) with sham control group as contrast and adeno‐associated virus (AAV9) system was used to deliver ZBTB20 to mouse heart by myocardial injection with vehicle‐injected control group as contrast two weeks before MI surgery. Then four weeks after MI, vehicle‐treated mice with left ventricular (LV) remodelling underwent deterioration of cardiac function, with symptoms of hypertrophy, interstitial fibrosis, inflammation and apoptosis. The vehicle‐injected mice also showed increase of infarct size and decrease of survival rate. Meanwhile, the ZBTB20‐overexpressed mice displayed improvement after MI. Moreover, the anti‐apoptosis effect of ZBTB20 was further confirmed in H9c2 cells subjected to hypoxia in vitro. Further study suggested that ZBTB20 exerts cardioprotection by inhibiting tumour necrosis factor α/apoptosis signal‐regulating kinase 1 (ASK1)/c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase 1/2 (JNK1/2) signalling, which was confirmed by shRNA‐JNK adenoviruses transfection or a JNK activator in vitro as well as ASK1 overexpression in vivo. In summary, our data suggest that ZBTB20 could alleviate cardiac remodelling post‐MI. Thus, administration of ZBTB20 can be considered as a promising treatment strategy for heart failure post‐MI.

Significance Statement: ZBTB20 could alleviate cardiac remodelling post‐MI via inhibition of ASK1/JNK1/2 signalling.

Identification and Comparative Analysis of Long Non-Coding RNA in the Skeletal Muscle of Two Dezhou Donkey Strains

Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) has been extensively studied in many livestock. However, compared with other livestock breeds, there is less research regarding donkey lncRNA function. It has been reported that lncRNA plays an important role in the timing control of development, aging, and death of livestock. Therefore, the study of donkey skeletal muscle lncRNA is of great significance for exploring donkey meat production performance. In this study, RNA-Seq was used to perform high-throughput sequencing of skeletal muscle (longissimus dorsi and gluteus) of two Dezhou donkey strains (SanFen and WuTou). The differentially expressed lncRNAs were screened between different strains and tissues. Then candidate genes for conjoint analysis were screened based on Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis. Finally, the accuracy of the sequencing data was verified by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Herein, we identified 3869 novel lncRNAs and 73 differentially expressed lncRNAs. Through the comparison between groups, the specific expression of lncRNAs were found in different strains and muscle tissues. Importantly, we constructed the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA interaction network and found three important candidate lncRNAs (MSTRG.9787.1, MSTRG.3144.1, and MSTRG.9886.1) and four candidate genes (ACTN1, CDON, FMOD, and BMPR1B). Analysis of the KEGG pathway indicates that the TGF-β signaling pathway plays a pivotal role in the growth and development of skeletal muscle in Dezhou donkey strains.

Primrose syndrome: Characterization of the phenotype in 42 patients

Primrose syndrome (PS; MIM# 259050) is characterized by intellectual disability (ID), macrocephaly, unusual facial features (frontal bossing, deeply set eyes, down‐slanting palpebral fissures), calcified external ears, sparse body hair and distal muscle wasting. The syndrome is caused by de novo heterozygous missense variants in ZBTB20. Most of the 29 published patients are adults as characteristics appear more recognizable with age. We present 13 hitherto unpublished individuals and summarize the clinical and molecular findings in all 42 patients. Several signs and symptoms of PS develop during childhood, but the cardinal features, such as calcification of the external ears, cystic bone lesions, muscle wasting, and contractures typically develop between 10 and 16 years of age. Biochemically, anemia and increased alpha‐fetoprotein levels are often present. Two adult males with PS developed a testicular tumor. Although PS should be regarded as a progressive entity, there are no indications that cognition becomes more impaired with age. No obvious genotype‐phenotype correlation is present. A subgroup of patients with ZBTB20 variants may be associated with mild, nonspecific ID. Metabolic investigations suggest a disturbed mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation. We suggest a regular surveillance in all adult males with PS until it is clear whether or not there is a truly elevated risk of testicular cancer.

HBV DNA integrates into upregulated ZBTB20 in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) affects the malignant phenotype of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The aim of the present study was to investigate the integration sites of HBV DNA and the expression of the zinc finger protein, zinc finger and BTB domain containing 20 (ZBTB20) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Integration of the HBV gene was detected using a high-throughput sequencing technique based on the HBV-Alu-PCR method. The expression of ZBTB20 was detected by western blotting. HBVX integration sites were detected in ~70% of the HCC tissue samples. HBV-integrated subgene X detection suggested that 67% of the integrated specimens were inserted into the host X gene in a forward direction, 57% in a reverse direction, 24% in both forward and reverse directions, and 38% had two HBV integration sites. A total of 3,320 HBV integration sites were identified, including 1,397 in HCC tissues, 1,205 in paracancerous tissues and 718 in normal liver tissues. HBV integration fragments displayed enrichment in the 200–800 bp region. Additionally, the results suggested that HBV was highly integrated into transmembrane phosphatase with tensin homology, long intergenic non-protein coding RNA (LINC)00618, LOC101929241, ACTR3 pseudogene 5, LINC00999, LOC101928775, deleted in oesophageal cancer 1, LINC00824, EBF transcription factor 2 and ZBTB20 in tumour tissues. Furthermore, the expression of ZBTB20 was upregulated in HCC tissues compared with normal control liver tissues, and was associated with HBV integration frequency. The present study suggested that HBV DNA integrated into upregulated ZBTB20 in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma, which might promote the occurrence and development of HCC. Furthermore, the results of the present study may provide a theoretical basis for the diagnosis and treatment of HCC.

In silico identification of EP400 and TIA1 as critical transcription factors involved in human hepatocellular carcinoma relapse

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second leading cause of cancer-associated mortality worldwide. Transcription factors (TFs) are crucial proteins that regulate gene expression during cancer progression; however, the roles of TFs in HCC relapse remain unclear. To identify the TFs that drive HCC relapse, the present study constructed co-expression network and identified the Tan module the most relevant to HCC relapse. Numerous hub TFs (highly connected) were subsequently obtained from the Tan module according to the intra-module connectivity and the protein-protein interaction network connectivity. Next, E1A-binding protein p400 (EP400) and TIA1 cytotoxic granule associated RNA binding protein (TIA1) were identified as hub TFs differentially connected between the relapsed and non-relapsed subnetworks. In addition, zinc finger protein 143 (ZNF143) and Yin Yang 1 (YY1) were also identified by using the plugin iRegulon in Cytoscape as master upstream regulatory elements, which could potentially regulate expression of the genes and TFs of the Tan module, respectively. The Kaplan-Meier (KM) curves obtained from KMplot and Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis tools confirmed that the high expression of EP400 and TIA1 were significantly associated with shorter relapse-free survival and disease-free survival of patients with HCC. Furthermore, the KM curves from the UALCAN database demonstrated that high EP400 expression significantly reduced the overall survival of patients with HCC. EP400 and TIA1 may therefore serve as potential prognostic and therapeutic biomarkers.

Polydatin inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma via the AKT/STAT3-FOXO1 signaling pathway

Polydatin, extracted from Polygonum cuspidatum, is known for its anti-platelet aggregation and anti-inflammatory effects. However, studies on the association of polydatin with cancer are limited, particularly with regards to epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-associated migration and invasion of cancer cells. The purpose of the present study was to reveal the potential anticancer effects of polydatin on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells, particularly its effects on EMT. MTT assay was used to determine cell viability. Migration and invasion were evaluated through wound healing and transwell assays. Colony formation efficiency assay was conducted to detect proliferation. Flow cytometric analyses of apoptosis and cell cycle progression were performed following cells staining with Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)/propidium iodide (PI) and PI alone, respectively. Western blotting was used to investigate relevant molecular mechanisms. The results indicated that polydatin inhibited proliferation via G₂/M arrest, suppressed migration and invasion of HCC cells, and promoted their apoptosis. In addition, phosphorylated (p)-protein kinase B (AKT), p-Janus kinase 1 and p-signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) levels were decreased as polydatin concentrations increased, and forkhead box protein O1 (FOXO1) expression was upregulated. Furthermore, the expression levels of various markers of EMT were reversed following treatment with polydatin. In conclusion, the present study validated that polydatin may inhibit proliferation via G₂/M arrest, and suppressed EMT-associated migration and invasion of HCC cells. The results also suggested that polydatin may promote HCC cell apoptosis by blocking the AKT/STAT3-FOXO1 signaling pathway.

Bioinformatics analysis to identify the key genes affecting the progression and prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most frequent primary liver cancer, which has poor outcome. The present study aimed to investigate the key genes implicated in the progression and prognosis of HCC. The RNA-sequencing data of HCC was extracted from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Using the R package (DESeq), the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were analyzed. Based on the Cluepedia plug-in in Cytoscape software, enrichment analysis for the protein-coding genes amongst the DEGs was conducted. Subsequently, protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was built by Cytoscape software. Using survival package, the genes that could distinguish the survival differences of the HCC samples were explored. Moreover, quantitative real-time reverse transcription-PCR (qRT-PCR) experiments were used to detect the expression of key genes. There were 2193 DEGs in HCC samples. For the protein-coding genes amongst the DEGs, multiple functional terms and pathways were enriched. In the PPI network, cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1), polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1), Fos proto-oncogene, AP-1 transcription factor subunit (FOS), serum amyloid A1 (SAA1), and lysophosphatidic acid receptor 3 (LPAR3) were hub nodes. CDK1 interacting with PLK1 and FOS, and LPAR3 interacting with FOS and SAA1 were found in the PPI network. Amongst the 40 network modules, 4 modules were with scores not less than 10. Survival analysis showed that anterior gradient 2 (AGR2) and RLN3 could differentiate the high- and low-risk groups, which were confirmed by qRT-PCR. CDK1, PLK1, FOS, SAA1, and LPAR3 might be key genes affecting the progression of HCC. Besides, AGR2 and RLN3 might be implicated in the prognosis of HCC.

LncRNA CDKN2B-AS1 promotes tumor growth and metastasis of human hepatocellular carcinoma by targeting let-7c-5p/NAP1L1 axis

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) show great potential as therapeutic targets in many diseases including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here, we aimed to investigate the clinical significance and function of lncRNA CDKN2B antisense RNA 1 (CDKN2B-AS1) in HCC. Here, we identified a novel oncogenic lncRNA CDKN2B-AS1, which was highly expressed in HCC and positively associated with large tumor size, microvascular invasion, high tumor grade, advanced tumor stage and reduced survival of HCC patients. CDKN2B-AS1 knockdown inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion, and induced G1 arrest and apoptosis of HCC cells in vitro, and CDKN2B-AS1 silencing suppressed tumor growth and metastasis of HCC in vivo. In accordance, CDKN2B-AS1 overexpression accelerated HCC cell growth and metastasis. Mechanistically, CDKN2B-AS1 promoted nucleosome assembly protein 1 like 1 (NAP1L1) expression by sponging let-7c-5p, thereby activated PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling in HCC cells. Notably, NAP1L1 restoration abolished the effects of CDKN2B-AS1 silencing on HCC cell growth and metastasis. CDKN2B-AS1, an oncogenic lncRNA of HCC, promoted NAP1L1-mediated PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling by acting as a molecular sponge of let-7c-5p. Our findings indicate that CDKN2B-AS1 may be a potential prognostic biomarker and a candidate target for HCC therapy.

Positive expression of ZNF689 indicates poor prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma

The objective of the present study was to investigate the association between zinc finger protein (ZNF) 689 expression and the clinicopathological features and prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). A total of 102 paired HCC and paired non-cancerous tissues, and 16 normal liver tissues were collected. ZNF689 expression was examined in HCC tissues, paired-noncancerous tissues, and normal liver tissues using RT-qPCR and immunohistochemistry analysis, and the association between ZNF689 expression and HCC prognosis was analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method. ZNF689 expression was not significantly different between HCC tissues and paired-noncancerous tissues (P=0.61). ZNF689 expression in HCC and paired-noncancerous tissues was significantly increased compared with that in normal liver tissues (P<0.01). Positive expression of ZNF689 protein in HCC was significantly associated with a tumor size of ≥10 cm, tumor capsule infiltration, and microvascular invasion (P<0.05). Positive expression of ZNF689 was a prognostic factor for overall survival time [hazard ratio (HR):1.961; P=0.048] and progression-free survival time (HR:1.902; P=0.041). ZNF689 maybe a novel predictor for prognosis of patients with HCC.

FOXO1: Another avenue for treating digestive malignancy?

Digestive malignancies are the leading cause of mortality among all neoplasms, contributing to estimated 3 million deaths in 2012 worldwide. The mortality rate hassurpassed lung cancer and prostate cancer in recent years. The transcription factor Forkhead Box O1 (FOXO1) is a key member of Forkhead Box family, regulating diverse cellular functions during tumor initiation, progression and metastasis. In this review, we focus on recent studies investigating the antineoplastic role of FOXO1 in digestive malignancy. This review aims to serve as a guide for further research and implicate FOXO1 as a potent therapeutic target in digestive malignancy.

ZBTB20 regulates EGFR expression and hepatocyte proliferation in mouse liver regeneration

Liver has a unique regenerative capacity, however, its regulatory mechanism is not fully defined. We have established the zinc-finger protein ZBTB20 as a key transcriptional repressor for alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) gene in liver. As a marker of hepatic differentiation, AFP expression is closely associated with hepatocyte proliferation. Unexpectedly, here we showed that ZBTB20 acts as a positive regulator of hepatic replication and is required for efficient liver regeneration. The mice specifically lacking ZBTB20 in hepatocytes exhibited a remarkable defect in liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy, which was characterized by impaired hepatocyte proliferation along with delayed cyclin D1 induction and diminished AKT activation. Furthermore, we found that epithelial growth factor receptor (EGFR) expression was dramatically reduced in the liver in the absence of ZBTB20, thereby substantially attenuating the activation of EGFR signaling pathway in regenerating liver. Adenovirus-mediated EGFR overexpression in ZBTB20-deficient hepatocytes could largely restore AKT activation in response to EGFR ligands in vitro, as well as hepatocyte replication in liver regeneration. Furthermore, ZBTB20 overexpression could significantly restore hepatic EGFR expression and cell proliferation after hepatectomy in ZBTB20-deficient liver. Taken together, our data point to ZBTB20 as a critical regulator of EGFR expression and hepatocyte proliferation in mouse liver regeneration, and may serve as a potential therapeutic target in clinical settings of liver regeneration.

Co-sequencing and novel delayed anti-correlation identify function for pancreatic enriched microRNA biomarkers in a rat model of acute pancreatic injury

Background

Co-sequencing of messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) and micro ribonucleic acid (miRNA) across a time series (1, 3, 6, 24, and 48 h post injury) was used to identify potential miRNA-gene interactions during pancreatic injury, associate serum and tissue levels of candidate miRNA biomarkers of pancreatic injury, and functionally link these candidate miRNA biomarkers to observed histopathology. RNAs were derived from pancreatic tissues obtained in experiments characterizing the serum levels of candidate miRNA biomarkers in response to acute pancreatic injury in rats.

Results

No correlation was discovered between tissue and serum levels of the miRNAs. A combination of differential gene expression, novel delayed anti-correlation analysis and experimental database interrogation was used to identify messenger RNAs and miRNAs that experienced significant expression change across the time series, that were negatively correlated, that were complementary in sequence, and that had experimentally supported relationships. This approach yielded a complex signaling network for future investigation and a link for the specific candidate miRNA biomarkers, miR-216a-5p and miR-217-5p, to cellular processes that were in fact the prominent histopathology observations in the same experimental samples. RNA quality bias by treatment was observed in the study samples and a statistical correction was applied. The relevance and impact of that correction on significant results is discussed.

Conclusion

The described approach allowed extraction of miRNA function from genomic data and defined a mechanistic anchor for these miRNAs as biomarkers. Functional and mechanistic conclusions are supported by histopathology findings.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12864-018-4657-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

miR-363-5p as potential prognostic marker for hepatocellular carcinoma indicated by weighted co-expression network analysis of miRNAs and mRNA

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate potential miRNAs and genes associated with the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

METHODS

Weighted co-expression network analysis was utilized to analyze the mRNA and miRNA sequencing data of HCC from TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas) database. Significant network modules were identified, and then functions of genes in the gene network modules and target genes of miRNAs in the miRNA network modules were explored. Additionally, correlations between network modules and prognostic factors of HCC were analyzed.

RESULTS

In total, 10 mRNA network modules were identified, three of which were significantly related to tumor stage, NAFLD (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease) and patient age. Four miRNA network modules were identified, of which one was associated with tumor stage. Targets of hsa-miR-363-5p were found distributed in the gene network modules, such as RGPD5, RGPD6, ZNF445 and ZNF780B. Kaplan-Meier test revealed that low expression of hsa-miR-363-5p was associated with better overall survival of HCC patients.

CONCLUSION

hsa-miR-363-5p may be a potential prognostic marker for HCC.

Gene Expression Profiling of Muscle Stem Cells Identifies Novel Regulators of Postnatal Myogenesis

Skeletal muscle growth and regeneration require a population of muscle stem cells, the satellite cells, located in close contact to the myofiber. These cells are specified during fetal and early postnatal development in mice from a Pax3/7 population of embryonic progenitor cells. As little is known about the genetic control of their formation and maintenance, we performed a genome-wide chronological expression profile identifying the dynamic transcriptomic changes involved in establishment of muscle stem cells through life, and acquisition of muscle stem cell properties. We have identified multiple genes and pathways associated with satellite cell formation, including set of genes specifically induced (EphA1, EphA2, EfnA1, EphB1, Zbtb4, Zbtb20) or inhibited (EphA3, EphA4, EphA7, EfnA2, EfnA3, EfnA4, EfnA5, EphB2, EphB3, EphB4, EfnBs, Zfp354c, Zcchc5, Hmga2) in adult stem cells. Ephrin receptors and ephrins ligands have been implicated in cell migration and guidance in many tissues including skeletal muscle. Here we show that Ephrin receptors and ephrins ligands are also involved in regulating the adult myogenic program. Strikingly, impairment of EPHB1 function in satellite cells leads to increased differentiation at the expense of self-renewal in isolated myofiber cultures. In addition, we identified new transcription factors, including several zinc finger proteins. ZFP354C and ZCCHC5 decreased self-renewal capacity when overexpressed, whereas ZBTB4 increased it, and ZBTB20 induced myogenic progression. The architectural and transcriptional regulator HMGA2 was involved in satellite cell activation. Together, our study shows that transcriptome profiling coupled with myofiber culture analysis, provides an efficient system to identify and validate candidate genes implicated in establishment/maintenance of muscle stem cells. Furthermore, tour de force transcriptomic profiling provides a wealth of data to inform for future stem cell-based muscle therapies.