Downregulation of lncRNA OGFRP1 inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma progression by AKT/mTOR and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways

Molecular Mechanisms in Tumorigenesis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma and in Target Treatments-An Overview

Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common primary malignancy of the liver, with hepatocellular differentiation. It is ranked sixth among the most common cancers worldwide and is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths. The most important etiological factors discussed here are viral infection (HBV, HCV), exposure to aflatoxin B1, metabolic syndrome, and obesity (as an independent factor). Directly or indirectly, they induce chromosomal aberrations, mutations, and epigenetic changes in specific genes involved in intracellular signaling pathways, responsible for synthesis of growth factors, cell proliferation, differentiation, survival, the metastasis process (including the epithelial-mesenchymal transition and the expression of adhesion molecules), and angiogenesis. All these disrupted molecular mechanisms contribute to hepatocarcinogenesis. Furthermore, equally important is the interaction between tumor cells and the components of the tumor microenvironment: inflammatory cells and macrophages-predominantly with a pro-tumoral role-hepatic stellate cells, tumor-associated fibroblasts, cancer stem cells, extracellular vesicles, and the extracellular matrix. In this paper, we reviewed the molecular biology of hepatocellular carcinoma and the intricate mechanisms involved in hepatocarcinogenesis, and we highlighted how certain signaling pathways can be pharmacologically influenced at various levels with specific molecules. Additionally, we mentioned several examples of recent clinical trials and briefly described the current treatment protocol according to the NCCN guidelines.

Non-coding RNA mediated regulation of PI3K/Akt pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma: Therapeutic perspectives

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among the primary reasons for fatalities caused by cancer globally, highlighting the need for comprehensive knowledge of its molecular aetiology to develop successful treatment approaches. The PI3K/Akt system is essential in the course of HCC, rendering it an intriguing candidate for treatment. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), such as long ncRNAs (lncRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), are important mediators of the PI3K/Akt network in HCC. The article delves into the complex regulatory functions of ncRNAs in influencing the PI3K/Akt system in HCC. The study explores how lncRNAs, miRNAs, and circRNAs impact the expression as well as the function of the PI3K/Akt network, either supporting or preventing HCC growth. Additionally, treatment strategies focusing on ncRNAs in HCC are examined, such as antisense oligonucleotide-based methods, RNA interference, and small molecule inhibitor technologies. Emphasizing the necessity of ensuring safety and effectiveness in clinical settings, limitations, and future approaches in using ncRNAs as therapies for HCC are underlined. The present study offers useful insights into the complex regulation system of ncRNAs and the PI3K/Akt cascade in HCC, suggesting possible opportunities for developing innovative treatment approaches to address this lethal tumor.

Harnessing function of EMT in hepatocellular carcinoma: From biological view to nanotechnological standpoint

Management of cancer metastasis has been associated with remarkable reduction in progression of cancer cells and improving survival rate of patients. Since 90% of mortality are due to cancer metastasis, its suppression can improve ability in cancer fighting. The EMT has been an underlying cause in increasing cancer migration and it is followed by mesenchymal transformation of epithelial cells. HCC is the predominant kind of liver tumor threatening life of many people around the world with poor prognosis. Increasing patient prognosis can be obtained via inhibiting tumor metastasis. HCC metastasis modulation by EMT and HCC therapy by nanoparticles are discussed here. First of all, EMT happens during progression and advanced stages of HCC and therefore, its inhibition can reduce tumor malignancy. Moreover, anti-cancer compounds including all-trans retinoic acid and plumbaging, among others, have been considered as inhibitors of EMT. The EMT association with chemoresistance has been evaluated. Moreover, ZEB1/2, TGF-β, Snail and Twist are EMT modulators in HCC and enhancing cancer invasion. Therefore, EMT mechanism and related molecular mechanisms in HCC are evaluated. The treatment of HCC has not been only emphasized on targeting molecular pathways with pharmacological compounds and since drugs have low bioavailability, their targeted delivery by nanoparticles promotes HCC elimination. Moreover, nanoparticle-mediated phototherapy impairs tumorigenesis in HCC by triggering cell death. Metastasis of HCC and even EMT mechanism can be suppressed by cargo-loaded nanoparticles.

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in hepatocellular carcinoma progression: Biological functions and new therapeutic targets

Liver is an important organ in body that performs vital functions such as detoxification. Liver is susceptible to development of cancers, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among them. 75-85% of liver cancer cases are related to HCC. Therefore, much attention has been directed towards understanding factors mediating HCC progression. LncRNAs are epigenetic factors with more than 200 nucleotides in length located in both nucleus and cytoplasm and they are promising candidates in cancer therapy. Directing studies towards understanding function of lncRNAs in HCC is of importance. LncRNAs regulate cell cycle progression and growth of HCC cells, and they can also induce/inhibit apoptosis in tumor cells. LncRNAs affect invasion and metastasis in HCC mainly by epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) mechanism. Revealing the association between lncRNAs and downstream signaling pathways in HCC is discussed in the current manuscript. Infectious diseases can affect lncRNA expression in mediating HCC development and then, altered expression level of lncRNA is associated with drug resistance and radio-resistance. Biomarker application of lncRNAs and their role in prognosis and diagnosis of HCC are also discussed to pave the way for treatment of HCC patients.

Long non-coding RNA OGFRP1 regulates cell proliferation and ferroptosis by miR-299-3p/SLC38A1 axis in lung cancer

Lung cancer is devastating cancer that ranks as the leading cause of cancer-related death. Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) opioid growth factor receptor pseudogene 1 (OGFRP1) was recognized as an oncogene in many cancers. However, the molecular mechanism of OGFRP1 in lung cancer is still poorly understood. The expression of target RNAs and genes was detected by quantitative real-time PCR and western blot. The interaction between miR-299-3p and OGFRP1 or solute carrier family 38 member 1 (SLC38A1) was predicted by StarbaseV3.0 and verified by dual-luciferase reporter assay and Pearson's correlation coefficient. Besides, a transplantation model of human lung cancer in nude mice was established to evaluate the role of OGFRP1 in lung cancer. OGFRP1 and SLC38A1 were overexpressed, whereas miR-299-3p was lowly expressed in lung cancer tumors and cells. OGFRP1 knockdown suppressed cell proliferation and facilitated ferroptosis by promoting lipid peroxidation and iron accumulation in lung cancer. Besides, Furthermore, miR-299-3p inhibitor or SLC38A1 overexpression attenuated OGFRP1 depletion-induced suppression on cell proliferation and ferroptosis in lung cancer. Animal experiments indicated that OGFRP1 deficiency restrained tumor growth in vivo by regulating the miR-299-3p/SLC38A1 axis. OGFRP1 regulated cell proliferation and ferroptosis in lung cancer by inhibiting miR-299-3p to enhance SLC38A1 expression, providing a novel therapeutic strategy for lung cancer.

Roles of lncRNAs Mediating Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling in HCC

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is considered the second most deadly cancer worldwide. Due to the absence of early diagnostic markers and effective therapeutic approaches, distant metastasis and increasing recurrence rates are major difficulties in the clinical treatment of HCC. Further understanding of its pathogenesis has become an urgent goal in HCC research. Recently, abnormal expression of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) was identified as a vital regulator involved in the initiation and development of HCC. Activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway has been reported to obviously impact cell proliferation, invasion, and migration of HCC. This article reviews specific interactions, significant mechanisms and molecules related to HCC initiation and progression to provide promising strategies for treatment.

Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) CYTOR promotes hepatocellular carcinoma proliferation by targeting the microRNA-125a-5p/LASP1 axis

This study investigated the function of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) cytoskeleton regulator RNA (CYTOR) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In HCC, the expression of CYTOR and microRNA (miR)-125a-5p were measured by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). The expression of actin skeletal protein 1 (LASP1) was evaluated by Western blot analysis. Flow cytometry assays, transwell assays, colony formation assay, and cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay were used to evaluate the roles of miR-125a-5p and CYTOR in HCC cells. The target genes of CYTOR and miR-125a-5p were identified by bioinformatics analysis and Luciferase assay. CYTOR was upregulated in HCC cell lines, and knockdown of CYTOR inhibited HCC cell growth. MiR-125a-5p was downregulated in HCC cells and a target of CYTOR in regulating HCC progression. Furthermore, LASP1 was a downstream target of miR-125a-5p. Finally, CYTOR was found to be involved in HCC progression in vivo. CYTOR promotes HCC development by regulating the miR-125a-5p/LASP1 axis.

Ropivacaine Retards the Viability, Migration, and Invasion of Choriocarcinoma Cells by Regulating the Long Noncoding RNA OGFRP1/MicroRNA-4731-5p/HIF3A Axis

Choriocarcinoma is an aggressive gestational trophoblastic neoplasm. This study attempted to explore the biological functions and underlying mechanisms by which ropivacaine restrains the progression of choriocarcinoma. The expression of long noncoding RNA OGFRP1, microRNA-4731-5p (miR-4731-5p), and HIF3A in choriocarcinoma cells was assessed by qRT-PCR. Choriocarcinoma cells treated with ropivacaine at the concentration of 100, 500, and 1000 μM were cultured for 24, 48, and 72 h, respectively. Choriocarcinoma cell viability was evaluated by MTT assay. Transwell assay was conducted to examine choriocarcinoma cell migration and invasion. Additionally, the target relationship between OGFRP1 and miR-4731-5p or between miR-4731-5p and HIF3A was predicted by bioinformatics analysis and confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter assays. OGFRP1 and HIF3A expression were enhanced in choriocarcinoma cells, while miR-4731-5p expression was inhibited. Treatment with ropivacaine impeded choriocarcinoma cell viability, migration, and invasion. Choriocarcinoma cells treated with 1000 μM ropivacaine for 48 h were selected for subsequent experiments. OGFRP1 elevation or miR-4731-5p deficiency mitigated the reduction effect of ropivacaine on tumorigenesis of choriocarcinoma cells. Besides, miR-4731-5p was predicted as the potential OGFRP1 target by StarBase and LncBase, and HIF3A was predicted as the potential miR-4731-5p target by StarBase and TargetScan. Dual-luciferase reporter assays determined that miR-4731-5p was a target of OGFRP1 and HIF3A was a target of miR-4731-5p. Feedback experiments declared that miR-4731-5p elevation or HIF3A suppression reversed the promoting effect of OGFRP1 overexpression on the malignant behaviors of ropivacaine-treated choriocarcinoma cells. Ropivacaine constrained choriocarcinoma cell viability, migration, and invasion through modulating the OGFRP1/miR-4731-5p/HIF3A axis. Our study may provide a novel strategy for choriocarcinoma prevention and treatment.

Knockdown of lncRNA IGF2BP2-AS1 inhibits proliferation and migration of oral squamous cell carcinoma cells via the Wnt/β-catenin pathway

BACKGROUND

Long non-coding RNA IGF2BP2 antisense RNA1 (lncRNA IGF2BP2-AS1) has been used to predict the overall survival rate of lung squamous cell carcinoma. This research aims to investigate the effect of IGF2BP2-AS1 in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

METHODS

The TCGA database was applied to evaluate the level of IGF2BP2-AS1 and its correlation with the clinicopathological characteristics of OSCC. The levels of IGF2BP2-AS1 in 30 OSCC and 20 normal tissue samples were detected by RT-qPCR. The distributions of IGF2BP2-AS1 in two OSCC cell lines (ie, Cal27 and SCC9) were detected by FISH. Colony formation, flow cytometry, wound-healing, transwell, and Western blotting analyses were used for evaluating the effect of IGF2BP2-AS1 on OSCC progression.

RESULTS

In comparison with the normal tissue samples, OSCC showed higher expression of IGF2BP2-AS1. High expression of IGF2BP2-AS1 was associated with poor survival in OSCC patients. Results of FISH showed that IGF2BP2-AS1 was mainly present in the cytoplasm. Further in vitro functional tests demonstrated that downregulation of IGF2BP2-AS1 in Cal27 and SCC9 cells significantly inhibited cell proliferation and migration, leading to cell-cycle arrest and cell apoptosis. Western blotting showed that expressions of β-catenin, Cyclin D1, Bcl-2, and MMP2 were downregulated, whereas Bax was upregulated following knockdown of IGF2BP2-AS1. The inhibitory effect of knockdown of IGF2BP2-AS1 on migration could be partially reversed by the Wnt/β-catenin pathway stimulator LiCl.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that knockdown of IGF2BP2-AS1 suppresses cell growth, migration and promotes apoptosis in OSCC cells, providing a new molecular target for OSCC.

LncRNA OGFRP1 acts as an oncogene in NSCLC via miR-4640-5p/eIF5A axis

BACKGROUND

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) OGFRP1 is up-regulated in endometrial cancer and cervical carcinoma, and OGFRP1 suppression inhibits the malignant behavior of cancer cells. Here, we evaluated the expression pattern, biological function and potential mechanism of OGFRP1 in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

METHODS

The expression of target genes in 25 pairs of clinically collected NSCLC and normal lung tissue samples was detected by qRT-PCR or western blot. We screened the siRNA (siOGFRP1) to down-regulate the expression of OGFRP1 in A549 and H1299 cells. The biological function of A549 and H1299 cells were examined by CCK8, wound healing and transwell assays. The molecular mechanism of OGFRP1 was further explored.

RESULTS

The expression of OGFRP1 in NSCLC tissues were higher than that in normal lung tissue. siOGFRP1 inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of A549 and H1299 cells. In addition, the expression of EMT-related and apoptosis-related proteins was changed by siOGFRP1 transfection. OGFRP1 can directly interact with miR-4640-5p, and siOGFRP1 increased the level of miR-4640-5p. Moreover, miR-4640-5p could directly bind to the 3' UTR region of eIF5A mRNA. eIF5A was highly expressed in NSCLC tissues, and predicted a poor prognosis. In addition, the expression of miR-4640-5p and eIF5A in NSCLC tissues were negatively correlated, while the expression of OGFRP1 and eIF5A were positively correlated. Knockdown of OGFRP1 inhibited the expression of eIF5A, while transfection of miR-4640-5p inhibitor up-regulated the expression of eIF5A.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, we demonstrated that down-regulation of OGFRP1 inhibited the progression of NSCLC through miR-4640-5p/eIF5A axis.

Signature of prognostic epithelial-mesenchymal transition related long noncoding RNAs (ERLs) in hepatocellular carcinoma

Reliable biomarkers are of great significance for the treatment and diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study identified potential prognostic epithelial-mesenchymal transition related lncRNAs (ERLs) by the cancer genome atlas (TCGA) database and bioinformatics.The differential expression of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) was obtained by analyzing the lncRNA data of 370 HCC samples in TCGA. Then, Pearson correlation analysis was carried out with EMT related genes (ERGs) from molecular signatures database. Combined with the univariate Cox expression analysis of the total survival rate of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients, the prognostic ERLs were obtained. Then use "step" function to select the optimal combination of constructing multivariate Cox expression model. The expression levels of ERLs in HCC samples were verified by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction.Finally, we identified 5 prognostic ERLs (AC023157.3, AC099850.3, AL031985.3, AL365203.2, CYTOR). The model showed that these prognostic markers were reliable independent predictors of risk factors (P value <.0001, hazard ratio [HR] = 2.400, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.667-3.454 for OS). In the time-dependent receiver operating characteristic analysis, this prognostic marker is a good predictor of HCC survival (area under the curve of 1 year, 2 years, 3 years, and 5 years are 0.754, 0.720, 0.704, and 0.662 respectively). We analyzed the correlation of clinical characteristics of these prognostic markers, and the results show that this prognostic marker is an independent factor that can predict the prognosis of HCC more accurately. In addition, by matching with the Molecular Signatures Database, we obtained 18 ERLs, and then constructed the HCC prognosis model and clinical feature correlation analysis using 5 prognostic ERLs. The results show that these prognostic markers have reliable independent predictive value. Bioinformatics analysis showed that these prognostic markers were involved in the regulation of EMT and related functions of tumor occurrence and migration.Five prognostic types of ERLs identified in this study can be used as potential biomarkers to predict the prognosis of HCC.

The lncRNA OGFRP1/miR-149-5p/IL-6 axis regulates prostate cancer chemoresistance

BACKGROUND

The long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) OGFRP1 has been found to promote malignancy in prostate cancer (PC) and other cancer types. How this lncRNA functions in the regulation of PC chemoresistance, however, is poorly defined.

METHODS

qRT-PCR was employed to measure OGFRP1, miR-149-5p, and IL-6 expression in PC tissues and cells. IC50 values for paclitaxel and docetaxel in PC cells were assessed via a CCK-8 assay approach. Putative miR-149-5p binding targets were identified and validated through bioinformatics assays and luciferase reporter assays, respectively. The impact of OGFRP1 on PC chemoresistance in vivo was validated using a xenograft model system.

RESULTS

Docetaxel-resistant PC (PC/DR) cells and tissues exhibited reduced OGFRP1 expression and increased miR-149-5p expression. Knocking down OGFRP1 augmented the sensitivity of these PC cells to docetaxel and paclitaxel in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, OGFRP1 was found to bind and sequester miR-149-5p within PC/DR cells, thereby indirectly regulating IL-6 expression. Consistent with this model, the overexpression of IL-6 reversed the OGFRP1 knockdown-mediated reductions in docetaxel and paclitaxel IC50 values for these PC cells.

CONCLUSIONS

OGFRP1 can sequester miR-149-5p, thereby indirectly promoting IL-6 upregulation and thereby promoting chemoresistance in PC cells. This OGFRP1/miR-149-5p/IL-6 axis may thus be a promising target for therapeutic efforts aimed at PC chemosensitization and treatment.

An Overview of the Role of Long Non-Coding RNAs in Human Choriocarcinoma

Choriocarcinoma (CC), a subtype of trophoblastic disease, is a rare and highly aggressive neoplasm. There are two main CC subtypes: gestational and non-gestational, (so called when it develops as a component of a germ cell tumor or is related to a somatic mutation of a poorly differentiated carcinoma), each with very diverse biological activity. A therapeutic approach is highly effective in patients with early-stage CC. The advanced stage of the disease also has a good prognosis with around 95% of patients cured following chemotherapy. However, advancements in diagnosis and treatment are always needed to improve outcomes for patients with CC. Long non-coding (lnc) RNAs are non-coding transcripts that are longer than 200 nucleotides. LncRNAs can act as oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes. Deregulation of their expression has a key role in tumor development, angiogenesis, differentiation, migration, apoptosis, and proliferation. Furthermore, detection of cancer-associated lncRNAs in body fluids, such as blood, saliva, and urine of cancer patients, is emerging as a novel method for cancer diagnosis. Although there is evidence for the potential role of lncRNAs in a number of cancers of the female genital tract, their role in CC is poorly understood. This review summarizes the current knowledge of lncRNAs in gestational CC and how this may be applied to future therapeutic strategies in the treatment of this rare cancer.

Epigenetic Regulation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression through the mTOR Signaling Pathway

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common type of primary liver cancer, is an aggressive tumor with a high mortality rate because of the limited systemic and locoregional treatment modalities. The development and progression of HCC depend on epigenetic changes that result in the activation or inhibition of some signaling pathways. The mTOR signaling pathway is essential for many pathophysiological processes and is considered a major regulator of cancer. Increasing evidence has shown that epigenetics plays a key role in HCC biology by regulating the mTOR signaling pathway. Therefore, epigenetic regulation through the mTOR signaling pathway to diagnose and treat HCC will become a very promising strategy.

lncRNA OGFRP1 promotes tumor progression by activating the AKT/mTOR pathway in human gastric cancer

As biomolecules of great clinical value, lncRNAs play a crucial role as regulators in the processes of tumor origin, metastasis, and recurrence. Thus, lncRNAs are urgently needed for research in gastric cancer. We elucidated the specific function of OGFRP1, both in vitro and in vivo. OGFRP1 was expressed at abnormally high levels in gastric cancer samples (n = 408) compared to normal samples (n = 211). Similar results were obtained in 30 clinical case samples. Interference of OGFRP1 markedly blocked cell proliferation and migration, and it induced cell cycle arrest and the apoptosis of gastric cancer cells in vitro. Phosphorylation of AKT was inhibited in cells transfected with OGFRP1 siRNA, as compared to their control cells. The in vivo results further confirmed the antitumor effects of OGFRP1 knockdown on gastric cancer. Decreases in tumor volume (104.23±62.27 mm³) and weight (0.1006±0.0488 g) in nude mice were observed during the OGFRP1 interference, as compared with the control group (418.96±211.96 mm³ and 0.2741±0.0769 g). OGFRP1 promotes tumor progression through activating the AKT/mTOR pathway. Our findings provide a new potential target for the clinical treatment of human gastric cancer.

LncRNA GHET1 promotes cervical cancer progression through regulating AKT/mTOR and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways

Cervical cancer (CC) is a prevalent gynecological cancer, and the patients with CC usually suffer from dismal prognosis. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are demonstrated to serve as promising biological targets in human cancers. Gastric carcinoma proliferation enhancing transcript 1 (GHET1) has been revealed to function as an oncogene in several cancers, but it has never been investigated in CC. We proposed to examine the biological role of GHET1 in CC and the underlying mechanism and validated the up-regulated expression of GHET1 in CC cell lines. Loss-of-function assays demonstrated that down-regulation of GHET1 inhibited cell growth, migration and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in CC. Furthermore, we validated that GHET1 down-regulation could inactivate AKT/mTOR and Wnt/β-catenin pathways, and that respective activation of these two pathways abrogated the inhibitive effect of GHET1 knockdown on CC cell growth, migration and EMT. Moreover, we unfolded a preliminary investigation on the modulation of GHET1 on AKT/mTOR and Wnt/β-catenin pathways. We found that GHET1 stabilized E2F6 mRNA through interacting with IGF2BP2, so as to regulate the activity of AKT/mTOR and Wnt/β-catenin pathways. Rescue assays also proved that GHET1 regulated these two pathways and CC cell growth, migration and EMT through E2F6. In conclusion, we revealed that down-regulation of GHET1 suppresses cervical cancer progression through regulating AKT/mTOR and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways, indicating GHET1 as a promising molecular biomarker for CC treatment improvement.

Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling as a Driver of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression: An Emphasis on Molecular Pathways

Liver cancers cause a high rate of death worldwide and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is considered as the most common primary liver cancer. HCC remains a challenging disease to treat. Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is considered a tumor-promoting factor in various cancers; hence, the present review focused on the role of Wnt signaling in HCC, and its association with progression and therapy response based on pre-clinical and clinical evidence. The nuclear translocation of β-catenin enhances expression level of genes such as c-Myc and MMPs in increasing cancer progression. The mutation of CTNNB1 gene encoding β-catenin and its overexpression can lead to HCC progression. β-catenin signaling enhances cancer stem cell features of HCC and promotes their growth rate. Furthermore, β-catenin prevents apoptosis in HCC cells and increases their migration via triggering EMT and upregulating MMP levels. It is suggested that β-catenin signaling participates in mediating drug resistance and immuno-resistance in HCC. Upstream mediators including ncRNAs can regulate β-catenin signaling in HCC. Anti-cancer agents inhibit β-catenin signaling and mediate its proteasomal degradation in HCC therapy. Furthermore, clinical studies have revealed the role of β-catenin and its gene mutation (CTNBB1) in HCC progression. Based on these subjects, future experiments can focus on developing novel therapeutics targeting Wnt/β-catenin signaling in HCC therapy.

Knockdown of lncRNA OGFRP1 Inhibits Proliferation and Invasion of JEG-3 Cells Via AKT/mTOR Pathway

Increasing evidence indicates the pivotal role of long noncoding RNAs in a variety of cancers, but there is limited focus on the link between long noncoding RNAs and gestational choriocarcinoma. This study aimed to examine the role of long noncoding RNA OGFRP1 in JEG-3 and JAR cells. Small interfering RNA was used to downregulate long noncoding RNA OGFRP1 level. Cell proliferation was measured by cell counting kit-8 and clone formation assays. Cell cycle and apoptosis were analyzed by flow cytometry. Cell invasion was examined by transwell assay. Protein expression was determined by Western blot. A double-effect inhibitor (BEZ235) that inhibits AKT and mTOR phosphorylation was used as a positive control. Knockdown of long noncoding RNA OGFRP1 significantly inhibited the proliferation of JEG-3 and JAR cells. Knockdown of long noncoding RNA OGFRP1 induced cell cycle arrest in G1 phase and apoptosis. On the other hand, knockdown of long noncoding RNA OGFRP1 inhibited the invasion of JEG-3 and JAR cells. Finally, knockdown of long noncoding RNA OGFRP1 resulted in the inactivation of AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. In addition, knockdown of long noncoding RNA OGFRP1 caused changes in the expression of intracellular cell cycle–related proteins and apoptosis-related proteins, including downregulation of CDK4, CDK6, Cyclin D1, Nusap1, and Bcl2 protein expression and upregulation of Bax protein expression. In conclusion, we found that downregulation of long noncoding RNA OGFRP1 inhibited cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, and invasion of JEG-3 and JAR cells and induced apoptosis through AKT/mTOR pathway. This study extends the understanding of the function of long noncoding RNA OGFRP1 in tumorigenesis, and these findings may be important for developing a potential therapeutic target for gestational choriocarcinoma therapy.

LncRNA LINC00857 regulates the progression and glycolysis in ovarian cancer by modulating the Hippo signaling pathway

Ovarian cancer is one of the most common gynecological cancers with high morbidity and mortality, which seriously endangers women's health and quality of life. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) can regulate the progression of cancers, including ovarian cancer. LINC00857 (long intergenic non‐protein coding RNA 857) has been discovered to be a crucial factor in the regulation of cancer development. Nevertheless, the specific functions and mechanisms of LINC00857 in ovarian cancer remain unclear. The Hippo signaling pathway can involve in cancer progression. In our research, we aimed to investigate the correlation of LINC00857 and Hippo pathway. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction assay was utilized to test the expression of LINC00857 in ovarian cancer tissues and cells. Functional experiments revealed that LINC00857 silencing led to the inhibition on cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and glycolysis but accelerated cell apoptosis in ovarian cancer. Mechanism experiments, including RNA immunoprecipitation, RNA pull‐down, and luciferase reporter experiments demonstrated that LINC00857 could regulate YAP1 (Yes1 associated transcriptional regulator) by competitively binding to miR‐486‐5p in ovarian cancer. In a word, this study unveiled that LINC00857 regulates YAP1 by competitively binding to miR‐486‐5p and accelerates ovarian cancer progression.

LncRNA ANCR Suppresses the Progression of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Through the Inhibition of Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway

Objective

Our study aimed to investigate the effect of anti-differentiation noncoding RNA (ANCR) on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and its potential molecular mechanisms.

Methods

The expression of ANCR was detected by qRT-RCR in both HCC tissues and HCC cells. Moreover, the relationship between ANCR expression and clinical parameters in HCC patients was investigated. The proliferation, cell clones, migration, invasion and apoptosis of MHCC97H and HCCLM3 cells were measured by MTT assay, colony formation assay, transwell assay and flow cytometry, respectively. The expressions of N-cadherin, vimentin, E-cadherin, cleaved caspase-3, Bax, Bcl-2, Wnt1, β-catenin and GSK-3β in MHCC97H and HCCLM3 cells were measured by Western blot.

Results

Our results showed that ANCR was lowly expressed in both HCC tissues and HCC cells. ANCR expression was closely associated with tumor size, tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) stages and vascular invasion in HCC. ANCR could dramatically inhibit cell proliferation, migration and invasion, as well as promote apoptosis in MHCC97H and HCCLM3 cells. ANCR could significantly increase the expression of cleaved caspase-3, Bax, E-cadherin and GSK-3β but reduce the expression of Bcl-2, N-cadherin, vimentin, Wnt1 and β-catenin in MHCC97H and HCCLM3 cells. In addition, Wnt/β-catenin pathway inhibitor (IWP-2) partially reversed the effects of silencing ANCR on the proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis of HCCLM3 cells.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that ANCR can suppress cell proliferation, migration and invasion, as well as promote apoptosis of HCC cells via modulation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.

PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway-related long non-coding RNAs: roles and mechanisms in hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common tumors worldwide with high prevalence and lethality. The oncogenic phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/AKT/mTOR) pathway is a classic dysregulated pathway involved in the pathogenesis of HCC. However, the underlying mechanism for how PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway aberrantly activates HCC has not been entirely elucidated. The recognition of the functional roles of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling axis sheds light on a new dimension to our understanding of hepatocarcinogenesis. In this review, we comprehensively summarize 67 dysregulated PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway-related lncRNAs in HCC. Many studies have indicated that the 67 dysregulated lncRNAs show oncogenic or anti-oncogenic effects in HCC by regulation on epigenetic, transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels and they play pivotal roles in the initiation of HCC in diverse biological processes like proliferation, metastasis, drug resistance, radio-resistance, energy metabolism, autophagy and so on. Besides, many of these lncRNAs are associated with clinicopathological features and clinical prognosis in HCC, which may provide a potential future application in the diagnosis and therapy of HCC.

Upregulation of FTX Promotes Osteosarcoma Tumorigenesis by Increasing SOX4 Expression via miR-214-5p

BACKGROUND

Long-chain non-coding RNA (LncRNA) plays a key role in the biological processes of tumors. LncRNA-FTX has been the invasion of tumors. However, its function and mechanism in osteosarcoma have not been studied.

METHODS

qRT-PCR was measured the expression levels of FTX and miR-214-5p in osteosarcoma. The protein levels of SRY-related HMG box transcription factor 4 (SOX4) were detected by Western Blot. Cholecystokinin (CCK-8) assay, cell colony formation and Transwell assay, Annexin V-FITC/PI assay were analyzed the effects of FTX and miR-214-5p on cell proliferation, cell invasion and apoptosis. The relationship between FTX, miR-214-5p and SOX4 was analyzed by bioinformatics analysis and Luciferase. The tumor changes in mice were detected by vivo experiments in nude mice.

RESULTS

The expression levels of FTX were increased in osteosarcoma tissues and cell lines and negatively correlated with the expression levels of miR-214-5p. FTX could modulate the expression of miR-214-5p in osteosarcoma cell lines. sh-FTX inhibited the growth and metastasis of osteosarcoma. FTX could regulate the growth of osteosarcoma through miR-214-5p. The knockdown of miR-214-5p reversed the inhibitory effect of sh-FTX on osteosarcoma cell proliferation and growth in mice. Furthermore, FTX regulated the expression of SOX4 by acting as a sponge of miR-214-5p in osteosarcoma.

CONCLUSION

FTX could promote proliferation, invasion and inhibited apoptosis by regulating miR-214-5p/SOX4 axis in osteosarcoma, suggesting that FTX might be a potential target for osteosarcoma treatment.

Lnc HAGLR Promotes Colon Cancer Progression Through Sponging miR-185-5p and Activating CDK4 and CDK6 in vitro and in vivo

BACKGROUND/AIM

LncRNA plays a key role in tumor progression. HAGLR functions as an oncogene in many cancers. However, the molecular mechanism of HAGLR in colon cancer is still unclear.

METHODS

qRT-PCR was used to measure the expression of HAGLR, miR-185-5p in colon cancer. The expression of CDK4 and CDK6 was detected by Western blot. CCK-8 assay, EdU staining, transwell and Annexin V-FITC/PI assay were used to analyze the effect of HAGLR and miR-185-5p on cell proliferation, invasion, migration and apoptosis. Bioinformatic analysis and luciferase were used to analyze the target genes of HAGLR and miR-185-5p. Nude mice were used to detect mouse tumor changes.

RESULTS

Compared with normal colon cancer tissues and cells, the expression of HAGLR was increased in colon cancer tissues and cells. In addition, the expression of HAGLR down-regulation inhibited the growth, migration, and invasion of colon cancer cells. MiR-185-5p was reduced in colon cancer, and CDK4 and CDK6 acted as target genes of miR-185-5p to regulate the progress of colon cancer. And CDK4 and CDK6 were predicted as downstream targets of miR-185-5p. Finally, it was demonstrated that HAGLR regulated tumor progression in vivo.

CONCLUSION

Lnc HAGLR promoted the development of colon cancer by miR-185-5p/CDK4/CDK6 axis, and lnc HAGLR might be potential target for colon cancer.

lncRNA OGFRP1 functions as a ceRNA to promote the progression of prostate cancer by regulating SARM1 level via miR-124-3p

lncRNA can interact with miRNA as a ceRNA to participate in the regulation of target gene expression, thus playing an important role in the development of malignant tumors. In this research, we found that OGFRP1 was up-regulated in prostate cancer (PCa) clinical samples and cell lines. Additionally, OGFRP1 is significantly associated with TNM stages III and IV and perineural invasion. Knockdown of OGFRP1 inhibited the growth of PCa cells, suggesting a promotional effect of OGFRP1 in tumor progression. Interestingly, OGFRP1 primarily localized in the cytoplasm, while miR-124-3p was found to bind to OGFRP1. Therefore, we further analyzed the downstream target of miR-124-3p using TargetScan. The result of the luciferase reporter gene assay displayed that SARM1 was a downstream target of miR-124-3p in two PCa cell lines. The overexpression of SARM1 promoted growth and metastasis in PCa cells. Knockdown of OGFRP1 and overexpression of miR-124-3p markedly restored the promotion of SARM1 to PCa cells. In conclusion, lncRNA OGFRP1 completely bound to miR-124-3p and relieved their inhibition on SARM1, thus promoting the growth of PCa cells. This report extended our understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms of lncRNAs in PCa, which could help us find novel diagnostic and therapeutic targets.

Long noncoding RNA linc00467 plays an oncogenic role in hepatocellular carcinoma by regulating the miR-18a-5p/NEDD9 axis

Increasing evidence has shown that numerous long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play critical roles in tumorigenesis. Herein, we investigated the biological role of lncRNA linc00467 in the cancer biology of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We observed that linc00467 was upregulated in HCC tissues and cells. Silencing of linc00467 using small interfering RNA interference significantly inhibited the growth and motility of HCC cells, and increased cell apoptosis through regulating the Bcl-2/Bax axis and the caspase cascade, suggesting that linc00467 exerted oncogenic functions in the progression of HCC. Moreover, we found that linc00467 could target miR-18a-5p, and NEDD9 was a target for miR-18a-5p in HCC cells. Furthermore, either the miR-18a-5p inhibitor or upregulation of NEDD9 could recover the inhibitory effects caused by silencing of linc00467. In conclusion, our data highlighted the oncogenic role of linc00467 in HCC progression by regulating the miR-18a-5p/NEDD9 axis.

Upregulation of long non-coding RNA OGFRP1 facilitates endometrial cancer by regulating miR-124-3p/SIRT1 axis and by activating PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β pathway

We planned to investigate the possible influences of long non-coding RNA (opioid growth factor receptor pseudogene 1) OGFRP1 in endometrial cancer and its potential regulatory mechanism. We measured the level of OGFRP1 in endometrial cancer tissues and evaluated the influences of OGFRP1 dysregulation on the tumour cell biological processes of endometrial cancer cells. Further, the regulatory relationships between OGFRP1 and miR-124-3p, between miR-124-3p and Sirtuin1 (SIRT1) were, respectively, investigated. The interaction between OGFRP1 dysregulation and activation of PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β pathway was revealed by Western blotting. OGFRP1 was up-regulated in endometrial cancer tissues and cells. OGFRP1 suppression inhibited the malignant behaviour (inhibited cell viability, promoted cell apoptosis, and suppressed cell migration and invasion) of the Ishikawa cells via negatively regulating miR-124-3p. SIRT1 was a target gene of miR-124-3p, and miR-124-3p regulated tumour growth and metastasis by the down-stream signal of SIRT1. Moreover, suppression of OGFRP1 restrained the activation of PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β signals in the Ishikawa cells via miR-124-3p/SIRT1 axis. Our experiments revealed that upregulation of OGFRP1 may enhance the progression of endometrial cancer by regulating miR-124-3p/SIRT1 axis and by activating PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β pathway. OGFRP1 may be of significance in illustrating the biology of endometrial cancer.

A five-long non-coding RNA signature with the ability to predict overall survival of patients with lung adenocarcinoma

An increasing number of studies have indicated that the abnormal expression of certain long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) is linked to the overall survival (OS) of patients with lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). The aim of the present study was to establish an lncRNA signature to predict the survival of patients with LUAD. The gene expression profiles and associated clinical information of patients with LUAD were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas database. The cohort was randomly sub-divided into training and verification cohorts. Univariate Cox regression analysis was performed on differentially expressed lncRNAs in the training cohort to select candidate lncRNAs closely associated with survival. Next, a risk score (RS) model consisting of 5 lncRNAs was established by multivariate Cox regression analysis on candidate lncRNAs. Using the median RS obtained from the training cohort as a cut-off point, patients were classified into high- and low-risk groups. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed a significant difference in OS between high- and low-risk groups. The survival prediction ability of the 5-lncRNA signature was further tested in the verification and total cohorts. The results proved that the 5-lncRNA signature had good reliability and stability in survival prediction for patients with LUAD. The univariate Cox regression analysis for the 5-lncRNA signature in each cohort indicated that the 5-lncRNA signature was closely associated with survival. Multivariate Cox regression analysis and stratification analysis proved that the prognostic signature was an independent predictor of survival for patients with LUAD. In addition, functional enrichment analysis indicated that the 5 prognostic lncRNAs may be involved in the tumorigenesis of LUAD through cancer-associated pathways and biological processes. Taken together, the present study provided a 5-lncRNA signature that may serve as an independent survival predictor for patients with LUAD.

Genetic And Epigenetic Regulation Of E-Cadherin Signaling In Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma

E-cadherin is well known as a growth and invasion suppressor and belongs to the large cadherin family. Loss of E-cadherin is widely known as the hallmark of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) with the involvement of transcription factors such as Snail, Slug, Twist and Zeb1/2. Tumor cells undergoing EMT could migrate to distant sites and become metastases. Recently, numerous studies have revealed how the expression of E-cadherin is regulated by different kinds of genetic and epigenetic alteration, which are implicated in several crucial transcription factors and pathways. E-cadherin signaling plays an important role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) initiation and progression considering the highly mutated frequency of CTNNB1 (27%). Combining the data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and previous studies, we have summarized the roles of gene mutations, chromosome instability, DNA methylation, histone modifications and non-coding RNA in E-cadherin in HCC. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of the relationship between these modifications and HCC. Perspectives on E-cadherin-related research in HCC are provided.

Integrated bioinformatics analysis reveals role of the LINC01093/miR-96-5p/ZFAND5/NF-κB signaling axis in hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a significant health burden worldwide and its pathogenesis remains to be fully elucidated. One of the means by which long non-coding (lnc)RNAs regulate gene expression is by interacting with micro (mi)RNAs and acting as competing endogenous (ce)RNAs. lncRNAs have important roles in various diseases. The aim of the present study was to examine the potential roles of lncRNAs in HCC. The RNA expression profiles of 21 paired tissues of HCC and adjacent non-tumor tissues were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. The differentially expressed RNAs were analyzed using the DESeq package in R. Expression validation and survival analysis of selected RNAs were performed using Gene Expression Profile Interactive Analysis and/or Kaplan-Meier Plotter. The target genes of the miRNAs were predicted using lncBase or TargetScan. Functional analyses were performed using the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery, and regulatory networks were determined using Cytoscape. Long intergenic non-protein coding RNA 1093 (LINC01093) was identified as one of the most significantly downregulated lncRNAs in HCC tissues. Downregulated expression of LINC01093 was associated with poor prognosis. A ceRNA network involving LINC01093, miR-96-5p and zinc finger AN1-type containing 5 (ZFAND5) was established. According to functional analyses, NF-κB signaling was implicated in the regulatory network for HCC. The present study revealed that a LINC01093/miR-96-5p/ZFAND5/NF-κB signaling axis may have an important role in the pathogenesis of HCC, and further investigation of this axis may provide novel insight into the development and progression of HCC.

Upregulation of the long non-coding RNA FOXD2-AS1 is correlated with tumor progression and metastasis in papillary thyroid cancer

BACKGROUND

Mounting evidence has shown that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play critical regulation roles in the progression of various cancers. However, the biological role and clinical value of lncRNA FOXD2-AS1 in papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) remain to be elucidated.

METHODS

The expression of FOXD2-AS1 in PTC tissues and cell lines was evaluated by RT-qPCR and in situ hybridization. The association between FOXD2-AS1 expression levels and clinicopathologic features was analyzed through tissue microarray. The biological function of FOXD2-AS1 in PTC cells was determined both in vitro through CCK-8, EdU staining, colony formation and cell invasion assays and in vivo through a xenograft tumor model. Functional and pathway enrichment analysis were also conducted to analyze the molecular mechanism.

RESULTS

FOXD2-AS1 was significantly upregulated in PTC tissues, and high FOXD2-AS1 expression was positively associated with malignant potential factors in PTC patients. In addition, high level of FOXD2-AS1 expression was an unfavorable independent prognostic biomarker for patients with PTC. Moreover, we found that knockdown of FOXD2-AS1 could effectively inhibit PTC cell proliferation and invasion in vitro and suppress tumor growth of PTC in vivo. Bioinformatics analysis indicated that activation of cell cycle and apoptosis pathways might be involved in the oncogenic function of FOXD2-AS1 in PTC. Moreover, we demonstrated that FOXD2-AS1 directly interacted with miR-185-5p as miRNA sponge and overexpression of FOXD2-AS1 partially reversed the suppressive effect of miR-185-5p in TPC cells.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest FOXD2-AS1 functions as an oncogene and promotes the tumor progression and metastasis in PTC, which might serve as a promising prognostic biomarker and potential therapeutic target for PTC patients.

LncSNHG3/miR-139-5p/BMI1 axis regulates proliferation, migration, and invasion in hepatocellular carcinoma

OBJECTIVE

Emerging evidence has revealed that lncRNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 3 (SNHG3) is involved in cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in various tumors. However, the underlying molecular mechanism of SNHG3 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is still not fully explored.

METHODS

Quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR was employed to detect the expression of SNHG3, miR-139-5p, and BMI1. Colony assay and MTT assay were used to detect the proliferation. Transwell assay was introduced to measure the migration and invasion ability. Bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assay were used to confirm the relationship between SNHG3, miR-139-5p, and BMI1. An animal experiment was adopted to detect the function of SNHG3 in vivo.

RESULTS

SNHG3 and BMI1 were upregulated in HCC, while miR-139-5p was downregulated. Knockdown of SNHG3 or BMI1 and overexpression of miR-139-5p could inhibit cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in HCC. miR-139-5p was a target of SNHG3 and BMI1 was a direct target mRNA of miR-139-5p. Silencing SNHG3 could impair the tumor progression in vivo.

CONCLUSION

The lncRNA SNHG3/miR-139-5p/BMI1 axis plays an important role in cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in HCC.

Long noncoding RNA CASC15 predicts unfavorable prognosis and exerts oncogenic functions in non-small cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

Aberrant expression of long non-coding RNA cancer susceptibility 15 (lncRNA CASC15) has been documented in various human tumors, and upregulation of CASC15 is closely correlated with cancer progression. However, the expression profile and potential biological functions of lncRNA CASC15 in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) have not been fully characterized.

METHODS

The expression levels of CASC15 were assessed by qRT-PCR in human NSCLC tissues and by in situ hybridization in NSCLC tissue microarray. The relationship between CASC15 expression and clinical parameters, as well as prognosis were analyzed and validated in TCGA NSCLC datasets. The biological functions of CASC15 were analyzed by CCK-8 assay, cell migration and invasion assay in NSCLC cell lines in vitro. In addition, a mouse xenograft model was established to evaluate the effect of CASC15 knockdown on NSCLC tumor growth in vivo. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) related molecules were examined by western blot and immunohistochemistry staining.

RESULTS

We found that CASC15 was upregulated in NSCLC tissues and cell lines. High expression levels of CASC15 were correlated with malignancies and poor survival rate in NSCLC patients. Multivariate analysis revealed that CASC15 was an independent risk factor of prognosis. In addition, we demonstrated that CASC15 knockdown inhibited NSCLC cell proliferation, migration and invasion in vitro. Xenograft model showed CASC15 knockdown significantly suppressed NSCLC tumor growth. Mechanistically, we revealed that CASC15 regulated EMT-related molecules and promoted the NSCLC progression and metastasis.

CONCLUSION

In summary, our findings suggest CASC15 exhibits an oncogenic role in promoting NSCLC tumorigenesis via regulating EMT.

YY1-Induced Upregulation of Long Noncoding RNA ARAP1-AS1 Promotes Cell Migration and Invasion in Colorectal Cancer Through the Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway

Introduction: It has been reported that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are crucial regulators in progression of human cancers, including colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the function of lncRNA ARAP1 antisense RNA 1 (ARAP1-AS1) in CRC remains unclear. Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the function and molecular mechanism of lncRNA ARAP1-AS1 in CRC. Results: ARAP1-AS1 was highly expressed in CRC tissues and cell lines. ARAP1-AS1 knockdown suppressed cell migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). YY1 transcription factor (YY1) enhanced the transcription activity of ARAP1-AS1. The YY1/ARAP1-AS1 axis promoted CRC cell migration and invasion. YY1/ARAP1-AS1 could regulate the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Conclusions: This study revealed that YY1-induced upregulation of ARAP1-AS1 promoted cell migration, invasion, and EMT process in CRC through the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.

LncRNA LOC105372579 promotes proliferation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in hepatocellular carcinoma via activating miR-4316/FOXP4 signaling

Background: Recently, a growing number of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been identified to be important for human cancer development. However, how lncRNA regulates hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression still remains largely unclear. We aimed to investigate the function of LOC105372579 in HCC progression. Materials and methods: The expression levels of lncRNA LOC105372579 in HCC tissues and cell lines were analyzed by qRT-PCR. The effects of LOC105372579 silencing on proliferation, migration and invasion were determined by using cell counting kit-8, colony formation assay and Transwell assay. Moreover, the xenograft mouse model was used to detect how LOC105372579 regulates HCC growth in vivo. Results: LOC105372579 was highly expressed in HCC tissues and cell lines. Moreover, upregulated levels of LOC105372579 predicted poor prognosis. LOC105372579 silencing suppressed the proliferation of HCC cells in vitro. We also validated that LOC105372579 knockdown inhibited the migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition of HCC cells. Xenograft assay demonstrated that LOC105372579 promotes tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, we identified that LOC105372579 is a sponge for miR-4316 and that FOXP4 is a direct target of miR-4316. Conclusion: Thus, our findings supported that LOC105372579 contributes to HCC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT by activating miR-4316/FOXP4 signaling.

DANCR contributed to hepatocellular carcinoma malignancy via sponging miR-216a-5p and modulating KLF12

Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) differentiation antagonizing nonprotein coding RNA (DANCR) has been identified as an oncogene in several cancers. However, the biological function and role of DANCR in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain unclear. Our current study aimed to investigate the detailed mechanism of DANCR in HCC. We found that DANCR was significantly upregulated in HCC cell lines in comparison to LO2 cells. Then, we observed that knockdown of DANCR could greatly inhibit Huh7 and HepG2 cell proliferation. In addition, HCC cell apoptosis was increased by silence of DANCR and meanwhile, cell cycle progression was blocked in G1 phase. Apart from these, downregulation of DANCR repressed HCC cell migration and invasion ability obviously. As predicted by the bioinformatics analysis, microRNA-216a-5p (miR-216a-5p) could serve as a direct target of DANCR. MiR-216a-5p has been reported to be involved in many cancers. Here, the correlation between miR-216a-5p and DANCR was confirmed using dual-luciferase reporter assay and radioimmunoprecipitation assay. Subsequently, Kruppel-like factor 12 (KLF12) exerts an important role in different tumor types. KLF12 can function as a downstream target of miR-216a-5p. Finally, the in vivo experiments were used and the data proved that DANCR also strongly suppressed HCC tumor growth in vivo via targeting miR-216a-5p and KLF12. In conclusion, our study indicated that DANCR might provide a new perspective for HCC treatment.

Long non-coding RNA OGFRP1 regulates LYPD3 expression by sponging miR-124-3p and promotes non-small cell lung cancer progression

Long noncoding RNA (OGFRP1) has been reported to be involved in the progression of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, the expression pattern, functions and molecular mechanisms of OGFRP1 in NSCLC remains unclear. In the present study, we found that OGFRP1 expression was significantly up-regulated in both NSCLC tissues and cell lines, and the upregulation of OGFRP1 expression is a powerful predictor of advanced clinical stage, lymph nodes metastasis and poor prognosis for NSCLC patients. Loss-of-function assay indicated that knockdown of OGFRP1 inhibited proliferation, migration and invasion, and induced apoptosis in vitro. Mechanistically, OGFRP1 could directly bind to miR-124-3p and effectively act as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) for miR-124-3p to promote the expression of the target gene LYPD3. Taken together, OGFRP1 contributed to progression of NSCLC at least partly through upregulating LYPD3 expression by sponging miR-124-3p, indicating that OGFRP1 may be a novel prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target in NSCLC.