lncRNA ZFAS1 Is Involved in the Proliferation, Invasion and Metastasis of Prostate Cancer Cells Through Competitively Binding to miR-135a-5p

Research Progress of Long Non-coding RNA-ZFAS1 in Malignant Tumors

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), although incapable of encoding proteins, play crucial roles in multiple layers of gene expression regulation, epigenetic modifications, and post-transcriptional regulation. Zinc finger antisense 1 (ZFAS1), a lncRNA located in the 20q13 region of the human genome, exhibits dual functions as an oncogene or tumor suppressor in various human malignancies. ZFAS1 plays a crucial role in cancer progression, metastasis, invasion, apoptosis, cell cycle regulation, and drug resistance through complex molecular mechanisms. Additionally, ZFAS1 has a long half-life of over 16 h, demonstrating exceptional stability, and making it a potential biomarker. This review integrates recent studies on the role and molecular mechanisms of ZFAS1 in malignancies and summarizes its clinical significance. By summarizing the role of ZFAS1 in cancer, we aim to highlight its potential as an anti-cancer biomarker and therapeutic target.

LncRNA ZFAS1 regulates ATIC transcription and promotes the proliferation and migration of hepatocellular carcinoma through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway

PURPOSE

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) exert a significant influence on various cancer-related processes through their intricate interactions with RNAs. Among these, lncRNA ZFAS1 has been implicated in oncogenic roles in multiple cancer types. Nevertheless, the intricate biological significance and underlying mechanism of ZFAS1 in the initiation and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain largely unexplored.

METHODS

Analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas Program (TCGA) database revealed a notable upregulation of lncRNA ZFAS1 in HCC tissues. To explore its function, we investigated colony formation and performed CCK-8 assays to gauge cellular proliferation and wound healing, Transwell assays to assess cellular migration, and an in vivo study employing a nude mouse model to scrutinize tumor growth and metastasis. Luciferase reporter assay was used to confirm the implicated interactions. Rescue experiments were conducted to unravel the plausible mechanism underlying the activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway by lncRNAs ZFAS1 and ATIC.

RESULTS

ZFAS1 and ATIC were significantly upregulated in the HCC tissues and cells. ZFAS1 knockdown inhibited cell proliferation and migration. We observed a direct interaction between the lncRNA ZFAS1 and ATIC. ATIC knockdown also suppressed cell proliferation and migration. SC79, an activator of AKT, partially restores the effects of lncRNA ZFAS1/ATIC knockdown on cell proliferation and migration. Knockdown of lncRNA ZFAS1/ATIC inhibited tumor growth and lung metastasis in vivo.

CONCLUSION

Overall, lncRNA ZFAS1 regulates ATIC transcription and contributes to the growth and migration of HCC cells through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

An update on the molecular mechanisms of ZFAS1 as a prognostic, diagnostic, or therapeutic biomarker in cancers

Zinc finger antisense 1 (ZFAS1), a newly discovered long noncoding RNA, is expressed in various tissues and organs and has been introduced an oncogenic gene in human malignancies. In various cancers, ZFAS1 regulates apoptosis, cell proliferation, the cell cycle, migration, translation, rRNA processing, and spliceosomal snRNP assembly; targets signaling cascades; and interacts with transcription factors via binding to key proteins and miRNAs, with conflicting findings on its effect on these processes. ZFAS1 is elevated in different types of cancer, like colorectal, colon, osteosarcoma, and gastric cancer. Considering the ZFAS1 expression pattern, it also has the potential to be a diagnostic or prognostic marker in various cancers. The current review discusses the mode of action of ZFAS1 in various human cancers and its regulation function related to chemoresistance comprehensively, as well as the potential role of ZFAS1 as an effective and noninvasive cancer-specific biomarker in tumor diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. We expected that the current review could fill the current scientific gaps in the ZFAS1-related cancer causative mechanisms and improve available biomarkers.

LncRNA AP000842.3 Triggers the Malignant Progression of Prostate Cancer by Regulating Cuproptosis Related Gene NFAT5

OBJECTIVES

Prostate cancer (PRAD) is a highly malignant disease with poor prognosis, and its development is regulated by a complex network of genes and signaling pathways. LncRNAs and miRNAs have significant regulatory roles in PRAD through the ceRNA network. Cuproptosis is a unique form of programmed cell death that is involved in various signaling pathways and biological processes related to tumor development. Nuclear factor of activated T cells 5 (NFAT5), a transcription factor that activates T cells, has been implicated in cuproptosis. However, the regulatory mechanism by which NFAT5 is involved in the ceRNA network in PRAD remains unclear.

METHODS

Through bioinformatics analysis, we found the ceRNA axis that regulates cuproptosis. By performing ROS assay and copper ion concentration assay, we demonstrated that inhibiting NFAT5 can increase the sensitivity of PRAD to cuproptosis inducers. By using luciferase assay, we discovered that AP000842.3 acts as the ceRNA of miR-206 to regulate the expression of NFAT5.

RESULTS

In this study, we found that lncRNA AP000842.3, as a ceRNA of miR-206, was involved in the regulation of levels of the transcription factor NFAT5 associated with cuproptosis in PRAD. First, knocking down NFAT5 can increase the sensitivity of PRAD to cuproptosis inducers. Meanwhile, changes in the expression of AP000842.3 and miR-206 could affect the proliferation of PRAD by regulating NFAT5. Mechanistically, AP000842.3 acts as the ceRNA of miR-206 to regulate the expression of NFAT5. In addition, the effects of lncRNA AP000842.3 on malignant progression of PRAD and NFAT5 were partially dependent on miR-206.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, our study reveals a key ceRNA regulatory network in PRAD and can be regarded as a new potential target for PRAD diagnosis and treatment.

Co-expression network analysis for the identification of potential prostate cancer genes and in vitro confirmation of their expression in cell model in the presence of Staphylococcal tsst-1 gene

Prostate cancer has arisen as an important life-threatening malignancy in males worldwide. Therefore, it is important to study underlying molecular pathways to be able to proposed appropriate a novel pathway of apoptosis in prostate cancer. This study aimed to explore the molecular effects of Staphylococcal tsst-1 gene on PC3 cell line apoptosis by in silico and in vitro studies. In this work, the differential expression of genes in prostate cancer was predicted by analyzing the public dataset GSE132063. Then, the pcDNA3.1 (+) vector was used to transfer tsst-1 gene to the PC3 cells and its effects was investigated using flow cytometry and qPCR. Co-expression network analysis indicated that lncRNAs had strong relationship with apoptosis genes in prostate cancer. Results of protein-protein docking indicated that BCL2L11, GRAMD3 and EGR1 interacted with tsst-1. Finally, the flow cytometry results showed that transfection by pcDNA3.1 (+)- tsst-1 could increase cellular death rates (48.15%) compared with the pcDNA3.1 (+) groups (6.35%); and the expression levels of GRAMD3, EGR1, BCL2L11 and PLAC4 were dysregulated in tsst-1 -transfected PC3 compared with empty-transfected PC3 (p < .05). In conclusion, our data will provide a novel landscape to understanding the mechanism of Staphylococcal tsst-1 gene on the PC3 cells apoptosis pathways.

Knockdown of LINC01087 inhibits gastric cancer malignant behavior by regulating the miR-135a-5p/CAAP1 axis

Long noncoding RNAs play important roles in the occurrence and development of many malignant cancers. This study focuses on the effects of LINC01087 on gastric cancer and its underlying mechanism. In the present study, LINC01087 and CAAP1 were found to be upregulated, and miR-135a-5p was diminished in gastric cancer specimens and cells. Inhibition of LINC01087 resulted in cell proliferation inhibition and induced cell apoptosis through the intrinsic apoptosis signaling pathway, as evidenced by the activation of caspase-3 and caspase-9. An investigation of the signaling pathway revealed that the effects on proliferation and apoptosis following LINC01087 knockdown were mediated by suppression of CAAP1. Furthermore, application of a miR-135a-5p inhibitor or overexpression of CAAP1 could attenuate the apoptotic effect achieved by LINC01087 inhibition, confirming the involvement of miR-135a-5p/CAAP1 signaling in the occurrence of gastric cancer. In conclusion, the LINC01087/miR-135a-5p/CAAP1 axis modulates gastric cancer tumorigenesis and pathogenesis and presents new insight into gastric cancer targeted therapy.

The long non-coding RNA ZFAS1 promotes colorectal cancer progression via miR200b/ZEB1 axis

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common tumor worldwide. CRC is influenced by several types of miRNAs and long non-coding RNAs. This study aims to evaluate the correlation of lncRNA ZFAS1/ miR200b/ ZEB1 protein with presence of CRC.

METHODS

Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to measure serum expression of lncRNA ZFAS1 and microRNA-200b in 60 CRC patients and 28 control subjects. ZEB1 protein in serum was measured by ELISA.

RESULTS

Lnc ZFAS1 and ZEB1 were up-regulated in CRC patients in compare to control subjects while miR-200b was down-regulated. There was a linear correlation between ZAFS1 expression and miR-200b and ZEB1 in CRC.

CONCLUSION

ZFAS1 is a key player of CRC progression and could be a potential therapeutic target by sponging miR-200b. In-addition the association between ZFAS1, miR-200b and ZEB1 highlights their potential value as a novel diagnostic biomarker in human CRC.

Prostate Cancer and microRNAs: New insights into Apoptosis

Prostate cancer (PCa) is known as one of the most prevalent malignancies globally and is not yet curable owing to its progressive nature. It has been well documented that Genetic and epigenetic alterations maintain mandatory roles in PCa development. Apoptosis, a form of programmed cell death, has been shown to be involved in a number of physiological processes. Apoptosis disruption is considered as one of the main mechanism involved in lots of pathological conditions, especially malignancy. There is ample of evidence in support of the fact that microRNAs (miRNAs) have crucial roles in several cellular biological processes, including apoptosis. Escaping from apoptosis is a common event in malignancy progression. Emerging evidence revealed miRNAs capabilities to act as apoptotic or anti-apoptotic factors by altering the expression levels of tumor inhibitor or oncogene genes. In the present narrative review, we described in detail how apoptosis dysfunction could be involved in PCa processes and additionally, the mechanisms behind miRNAs affect the apoptosis pathways in PCa. Identifying the mechanisms behind the effects of miRNAs and their targets on apoptosis can provide scientists new targets for PCa treatment.

Importance of long non-coding RNAs in the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of prostate cancer

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are regulatory transcripts with essential roles in the pathogenesis of almost all types of cancers, including prostate cancer. They can act as either oncogenic lncRNAs or tumor suppressor ones in prostate cancer. Small nucleolar RNA host genes are among the mostly assessed oncogenic lncRNAs in this cancer. PCA3 is an example of oncogenic lncRNAs that has been approved as a diagnostic marker in prostate cancer. A number of well-known oncogenic lncRNAs in other cancers such as DANCR, MALAT1, CCAT1, PVT1, TUG1 and NEAT1 have also been shown to act as oncogenes in prostate cancer. On the other hand, LINC00893, LINC01679, MIR22HG, RP1-59D14.5, MAGI2-AS3, NXTAR, FGF14-AS2 and ADAMTS9-AS1 are among lncRNAs that act as tumor suppressors in prostate cancer. LncRNAs can contribute to the pathogenesis of prostate cancer via modulation of androgen receptor (AR) signaling, ubiquitin-proteasome degradation process of AR or other important signaling pathways. The current review summarizes the role of lncRNAs in the evolution of prostate cancer with an especial focus on their importance in design of novel biomarker panels and therapeutic targets.

LncRNA ZFAS1 promotes laryngeal cancer progression through RBFOX2-mediated MENA alternative splicing

Laryngeal cancer (LC) is the most common aggressive malignancy of the head and neck. LncRNA ZNFX1 antisense RNA 1 (ZFAS1) displays oncogenic properties in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, but its regulatory role in laryngeal cancer progression remains obscure. Here, we found that ZFAS1 expression in laryngeal cancer tissues and cells was higher than that in adjacent normal tissues and normal nasopharyngeal epithelial cells. Highly expressed ZFAS1 was associated with advanced lymph node metastasis stages and clinical stages. ZFAS1 overexpression promoted LC cell proliferation, invasion, and N-cadherin and Vimentin expression, and suppressed E-cadherin expression. While ZFAS1 knockdown played an opposite role. Mechanistically, ZFAS1 stabilized RNA binding fox-1 homolog 2 (RBFOX2) protein expression by binding to RBFOX2, and RBFOX2 overexpression reversed the effect of ZFAS1 silence on cell functions. Moreover, highly expressed RBFOX2 led to skipping of MENA exon 11a and generating a pro-invasive isoform (MENA^INV ). MENA^INV overexpression effectively abolished the inhibitory effect of RBFOX2 knockdown on cell malignant progression. Furthermore, Hep2 cells infected with lentivirus-mediated ZFAS1 shRNA or negative control shRNA were subcutaneously injected into mice to assess the role of ZFAS1 in tumor growth. And the data showed that silencing ZFAS1 in vivo hindered xenograft tumor growth. In conclusion, silencing ZFAS1 alleviated malignant progression of laryngeal cancer cells and mouse xenograft tumor growth by regulating RBFOX2-mediated alternative splicing of MENA.

Long Non-Coding RNAs as Novel Targets for Phytochemicals to Cease Cancer Metastasis

Metastasis is a multi-step phenomenon during cancer development leading to the propagation of cancer cells to distant organ(s). According to estimations, metastasis results in over 90% of cancer-associated death around the globe. Long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) are a group of regulatory RNA molecules more than 200 base pairs in length. The main regulatory activity of these molecules is the modulation of gene expression. They have been reported to affect different stages of cancer development including proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion, and metastasis. An increasing number of medical data reports indicate the probable function of LncRNAs in the metastatic spread of different cancers. Phytochemical compounds, as the bioactive agents of plants, show several health benefits with a variety of biological activities. Several phytochemicals have been demonstrated to target LncRNAs to defeat cancer. This review article briefly describes the metastasis steps, summarizes data on some well-established LncRNAs with a role in metastasis, and identifies the phytochemicals with an ability to suppress cancer metastasis by targeting LncRNAs.

LncRNA weighted gene co-expression network analysis reveals novel biomarkers related to prostate cancer metastasis

BACKGROUND

Most prostate cancer patients die from metastasis and lack accurate efficacious biomarkers to monitor the disease behavior, optimize treatment and assess prognosis. Herein, we aimed to identify meaningful lncRNA biomarkers associated with prostate cancer metastatic progression.

METHODS

By repurposing microarray probes, 11,624 lncRNAs in prostate cancer were obtained from Gene Expression Omnibus  database (GSE46691, N = 545; GSE29079, N = 235; GSE94767, N = 130). Weighted gene co-expression network analysis was applied to determine the co-expression lncRNA network pertinent to metastasis. Hub lncRNAs were screened. RNA-seq and clinical data from the Cancer Genome Atlas prostate cancer (TCGA-PRAD) cohort (N = 531) were analyzed. Transwell assay and bioinformatic analysis were performed for mechanism research.

RESULTS

The high expression levels of nine hub lncRNAs (FTX, AC005261.1, NORAD, LINC01578, AC004542.2, ZFAS1, EBLN3P, THUMPD3-AS1, GAS5) were significantly associated with Gleason score and increased probability of metastatic progression. Among these lncRNAs, ZFAS1 had the consistent trends of expression in all of the analysis from different cohorts, and the Kaplan-Meier survival analyses showed higher expression of ZFAS1 was associated with shorter relapse free survival. In-vitro studies confirmed that downregulation of ZFAS1 decreased prostate cancer cell migration.

CONCLUSION

We offered some new insights into discovering lncRNA markers correlated with metastatic progression of prostate cancer using the WGCNA. Some may serve as potential prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for advanced metastatic prostate cancer.

RNA sequencing uncover crucial genes mediating progression of large-artery atherosclerotic and small-artery occlusion ischemic stroke

PURPOSE

The goal of our study is to uncover the pathogenesis of large-artery atherosclerotic ischemic stroke (LAAIS) and small-artery occlusion ischemic stroke (SAOIS) and analyze their difference using RNA sequencing.

METHODS

RNA sequencing was used to filtrate differentially expressed mRNAs (DEmRNAs) and differentially expressed lncRNAs (DElncRNAs) in LAAIS and SAOIS. Specific DEmRNAs and DElncRNAs in LAAIS and SAOIS were further found. Functional annotation and DElncRNA-DEmRNA co-expression network were built to reveal biological function of DEmRNAs.

RESULTS

A total of 832 DEmRNAs and 96 DElncRNAs were identified in LAAIS vs normal controls. 587 DEmRNAs and 105 DElncRNAs were identified in SAOIS vs normal controls. In LAAIS vs SAOIS, 636 DEmRNAs and 112 DElncRNAs were identified. Among which, 571 DEmRNAs and 61 DElncRNAs were LAAIS specific DEmRNAs and DElncRNAs, respectively. 325 DEmRNAs and 66 DElncRNAs were respectively SAOIS specific DEmRNAs and DElncRNAs. We also obtained 3086 LAAIS specific DElncRNA-DEmRNA co-expression pairs and 661 SAOIS specific DElncRNA-DEmRNA co-expression pairs. Oxidative phosphorylation and Alzheimer's disease were significantly enriched pathways in both LAAIS specific DEmRNAs and DEmRNAs in LAAIS specific DElncRNA-DEmRNA co-expression network. ECM-receptor interaction, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and dilated cardiomyopathy were significantly enriched pathways in both SAOIS specific DEmRNAs and DEmRNAs in SAOIS specific DElncRNA-DEmRNA co-expression network.

CONCLUSION

This finding may help to understand the mechanisms of LAAIS and SAOIS and offer novel clues for finding specific biomarkers for LAAIS and SAOIS.

The Role of Long Non-Coding RNAs in Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition-Related Signaling Pathways in Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common male malignancies with frequent remote invasion and metastasis, leading to high mortality. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a fundamental process in embryonic development and plays a key role in tumor proliferation, invasion and metastasis. Numerous long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) could regulate the occurrence and development of EMT through various complex molecular mechanisms involving multiple signaling pathways in PCa. Given the importance of EMT and lncRNAs in the progression of tumor metastasis, we recapitulate the research progress of EMT-related signaling pathways regulated by lncRNAs in PCa, including AR signaling, STAT3 signaling, Wnt/β-catenin signaling, PTEN/PI3K/AKT signaling, TGF-β/Smad and NF-κB signaling pathways. Furthermore, we summarize four modes of how lncRNAs participate in the EMT process of PCa via regulating relevant signaling pathways.

Molecular Landscape of LncRNAs in Prostate Cancer: A focus on pathways and therapeutic targets for intervention

Background

One of the most malignant tumors in men is prostate cancer that is still incurable due to its heterogenous and progressive natures. Genetic and epigenetic changes play significant roles in its development. The RNA molecules with more than 200 nucleotides in length are known as lncRNAs and these epigenetic factors do not encode protein. They regulate gene expression at transcriptional, post-transcriptional and epigenetic levels. LncRNAs play vital biological functions in cells and in pathological events, hence their expression undergoes dysregulation.

Aim of review

The role of epigenetic alterations in prostate cancer development are emphasized here. Therefore, lncRNAs were chosen for this purpose and their expression level and interaction with other signaling networks in prostate cancer progression were examined.

Key scientific concepts of review

The aberrant expression of lncRNAs in prostate cancer has been well-documented and progression rate of tumor cells are regulated via affecting STAT3, NF-κB, Wnt, PI3K/Akt and PTEN, among other molecular pathways. Furthermore, lncRNAs regulate radio-resistance and chemo-resistance features of prostate tumor cells. Overexpression of tumor-promoting lncRNAs such as HOXD-AS1 and CCAT1 can result in drug resistance. Besides, lncRNAs can induce immune evasion of prostate cancer via upregulating PD-1. Pharmacological compounds such as quercetin and curcumin have been applied for targeting lncRNAs. Furthermore, siRNA tool can reduce expression of lncRNAs thereby suppressing prostate cancer progression. Prognosis and diagnosis of prostate tumor at clinical course can be evaluated by lncRNAs. The expression level of exosomal lncRNAs such as lncRNA-p21 can be investigated in serum of prostate cancer patients as a reliable biomarker.

Crosstalk between Long Non Coding RNAs, microRNAs and DNA Damage Repair in Prostate Cancer: New Therapeutic Opportunities?

Simple Summary

Non-coding RNAs are a type of genetic material that doesn’t make protein, but performs diverse regulatory functions. In prostate cancer, most treatments target proteins, and resistance to such therapies is common, leading to disease progression. Targeting non-coding RNAs may provide alterative treatment options and potentially overcome drug resistance. Major types of non-coding RNAs include tiny ‘microRNAs’ and much longer ‘long non-coding RNAs’. Scientific studies have shown that these form a major part of the human genome, and play key roles in altering gene activity and determining the fate of cells. Importantly, in cancer, their activity is altered. Recent evidence suggests that microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs play important roles in controlling response to DNA damage. In this review, we explore how different types of non-coding RNA interact to control cell DNA damage responses, and how this knowledge may be used to design better prostate cancer treatments and tests.

Abstract

It is increasingly appreciated that transcripts derived from non-coding parts of the human genome, such as long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs), are key regulators of biological processes both in normal physiology and disease. Their dysregulation during tumourigenesis has attracted significant interest in their exploitation as novel cancer therapeutics. Prostate cancer (PCa), as one of the most diagnosed malignancies and a leading cause of cancer-related death in men, continues to pose a major public health problem. In particular, survival of men with metastatic disease is very poor. Defects in DNA damage response (DDR) pathways culminate in genomic instability in PCa, which is associated with aggressive disease and poor patient outcome. Treatment options for metastatic PCa remain limited. Thus, researchers are increasingly targeting ncRNAs and DDR pathways to develop new biomarkers and therapeutics for PCa. Increasing evidence points to a widespread and biologically-relevant regulatory network of interactions between lncRNAs and miRNAs, with implications for major biological and pathological processes. This review summarises the current state of knowledge surrounding the roles of the lncRNA:miRNA interactions in PCa DDR, and their emerging potential as predictive and diagnostic biomarkers. We also discuss their therapeutic promise for the clinical management of PCa.

LncRNA ZFAS1 regulates the proliferation, oxidative stress, fibrosis, and inflammation of high glucose-induced human mesangial cells via the miR-588/ROCK1 axis

BACKGROUND

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a critical and the most common microvascular complication and its pathogenesis is still faintly understood. Thus, this study was performed to examine the long non-coding RNA ZNFX1 Antisense Gene Protein 1 (lncRNA ZFAS1) biological function and mechanism of regulation in DN.

METHOD

Human glomerular mesangial cells (HGMC) were induced with high glucose (HG, 25 mM) to establish HG-induced cell viability, pro-inflammation observed in DN. After, target miRNA and mRNA were predicted through Lncbase and Targetscan. Subsequently, the expression of ZFAS1, miR-588, and ROCK1 in DN clinical samples and cell-model was examined through qRT-PCR and western blot analysis. We upheld the targeted interaction between miR-588 and ZFAS1 or ROCK1 through a dual-luciferase reporter assay. The proliferation of the cell was also examined through CCK-8 assay, while the level of HG-induced oxidative stress was established by measuring reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, and also the activities of antioxidant enzymes in the cell. Lastly, the level of accumulated extracellular matrix (ECM) protein-fibronectin and collagen type IV, and inflammatory cytokines produced by the cell was analyzed through western blot analysis and ELISA.

RESULTS

ZFAS1 was significantly upregulated in the DN blood samples and HG-induced HGMC. Prediction result revealed that the ZFAS1 endogenously targets the miR-588 seed sequence while miR-588 plays a role in post-transcriptional regulation of ROCK1 mRNA. Moreover, we found that miR-588 expression was significantly downregulated in DN blood samples and negatively correlates with ZFAS1 expression. Further results show that silencing ZFAS1 had a protective effect on HG-induced proliferation, oxidative stress, fibrosis, and inflammation in HGMC while miR-588 inhibition and ROCK1 overexpression reversed this effect.

CONCLUSIONS

Altogether, our data suggest that ZFAS1 regulates the proliferation, oxidative stress, fibrosis, and inflammation of high glucose-induced diabetic nephropathy through the miR-588/ROCK1 axis.

lncRNA FOXD3-AS1 promotes the progression of non-small cell lung cancer by regulating the miR-135a-5p/CDK6 axis

Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) is essential to the development and progression of malignant human cancer. Growing evidence suggests that the lncRNA forkhead box D3 antisense 1 (FOXD3-AS1) is a crucial regulatory effector for multiple cancer types and is closely associated with poor prognosis. However, in most cases, the molecular mechanism underlying the role of FOXD3-AS1 in cancer development has not yet been fully elucidated. The present study focused on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in order to gain insight into how FOXD3-AS1 drives cancer progression. First, FOXD3-AS1 expression in NSCLC tissue samples was detected using reverse transcription-quantitative (RT-qPCR). Moreover, cell proliferation and apoptosis were determined using Cell Counting Kit-8 assays and flow cytometry, respectively. A luciferase reporter assay was then performed to determine whether there was a direct binding association between FOXD3-AS1 and microRNA (miR)-135a-5p. Lastly, a tumor subcutaneous xenograft model was established to examine the role of FOXD3-AS1 in tumor growth. FOXD3-AS1 was significantly overexpressed in NSCLC tissue samples and cell lines compared with normal tissue samples and cells. FOXD3-AS1 silencing expression significantly inhibited A549 and H1229 cell proliferation while inducing apoptosis compared with sh-NC group. The luciferase reporter assay demonstrated the direct binding interaction between FOXD3-AS1 and miR-135a-5p. Moreover, FOXD3-AS1 silencing led to the upregulation of miR-135a-5p in A549 and H1229 cells compared with sh-NC group. It was also demonstrated that miR-135a-5p could bind to the 3′ untranslated region of cyclin-dependent kinase 6 (CDK6) and negatively modulate its transcription. miR-135a-5p knockdown or CDK6 overexpression reversed the inhibition on cell proliferation and apoptosis following FOXD3-AS1 knockdown. Altogether, the present study suggests that FOXD3-AS1 sponges miR-135a-5p to promote cell proliferation and concomitantly inhibit apoptosis by regulating CDK6 expression in NSCLC cells.

RHO GTPase-Related Long Noncoding RNAs in Human Cancers

RHO GTPases are critical signal transducers that regulate cell adhesion, polarity, and migration through multiple signaling pathways. While all these cellular processes are crucial for the maintenance of normal cell homeostasis, disturbances in RHO GTPase-associated signaling pathways contribute to different human diseases, including many malignancies. Several members of the RHO GTPase family are frequently upregulated in human tumors. Abnormal gene regulation confirms the pivotal role of lncRNAs as critical gene regulators, and thus, they could potentially act as oncogenes or tumor suppressors. lncRNAs most likely act as sponges for miRNAs, which are known to be dysregulated in various cancers. In this regard, the significant role of miRNAs targeting RHO GTPases supports the view that the aberrant expression of lncRNAs may reciprocally change the intensity of RHO GTPase-associated signaling pathways. In this review article, we summarize recent advances in lncRNA research, with a specific focus on their sponge effects on RHO GTPase-targeting miRNAs to crucially mediate gene expression in different cancer cell types and tissues. We will focus in particular on five members of the RHO GTPase family, including RHOA, RHOB, RHOC, RAC1, and CDC42, to illustrate the role of lncRNAs in cancer progression. A deeper understanding of the widespread dysregulation of lncRNAs is of fundamental importance for confirmation of their contribution to RHO GTPase-dependent carcinogenesis.

lncRNA ZFAS1 promotes ox-LDL induced EndMT through miR-150-5p/Notch3 signaling axis

EndMT is an active contributor to atherosclerosis pathology, and lncRNAs is widely involved in the occurrence and development of atherosclerosis. The purpose of this study was to investigate the regulatory mechanisms of ZFAS1 in EndMT of atherosclerosis. Here, the ApoE-/- mice were feed with high-fat diet to establish the atherosclerosis model, and HUVECs was stimulated with ox-LDL to induce EndMT. RT-PCR and western blot were used to detect the mRNA and protein expression, respectively. The expression of EndMT markers were detected by immune-fluorescence. The relationships among ZFAS1, miR-150-5p and Notch3 were evaluated by luciferase reporter assay. The role of ZFAS1 in EndMT and its dependence on miR-150-5p/Notch3 axis was further detected by knocking down or over-expressing ZFAS1. We found that ZFAS1 and Notch3 were upregulated while miR-150-5p was downregulated in atherosclerosis mice and ox-LDL-treated HUVECs. The expression of CD31 and vWF were significant decreased, while the α-SMA and vimentin were significant increased in ox-LDL-treated HUVECs, and overexpression of ZFAS1 enhanced the effect of ox-LDL on HUVECs. Further, ZFAS1 functions as a ceRNA to increase Notch3 expression through sponging miR-150-5p, and miR-150-5p mimic or si-Notch3 could reverse LV-ZFAS1-mediated EndMT. In summary, lncRNA ZFAS1 promotes ox-LDL induced HUVECs EndMT through regulating miR-150-5p/Notch3 axis.

Long non-coding RNA SNHG8 promotes prostate cancer progression through repressing miR-384 and up-regulating HOXB7

BACKGROUND

Multiple long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been demonstrated to function as vital regulators in the progression of prostate cancer (PCa). In the present study, we aimed to probe the function of lncRNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 8 (SNHG8) in PCa progression.

METHODS

A quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting were utilized to measure SNHG8, microRNA-384 (miR-384) and homeobox B7 (HOXB7) expression. Call-couting kit-8 and bromodeoxyuridine experiments were employed to evaluate PCa cell proliferation. Transwell experiments were performed to detect PCa cell migration and invasion. Dual-luciferase reporter experiments and RNA immunoprecipitation experiments were conducted to determine the targeting relationships among miR-384, SNHG8 and HOXB7.

RESULTS

SNHG8 was up-regulated in PCa tissues and cells. Silencing of SNHG8 suppressed the proliferation, migration and invasion of PCa cells. SNHG8 functioned as a molecular sponge to repress miR-384. The effects of SNHG8 knockdown on PCa cell proliferation, migration and invasion were counteracted by miR-384 inhibition. HOXB7 was confirmed to be a target gene of miR-384. SNHG8 knockdown repressed HOXB7 expression via targeting miR-384.

CONCLUSIONS

SNHG8 promotes PCa cell proliferation, migration and invasion via decoying miR-384 and up-regulating HOXB7.

Non-Coding RNAs Set a New Phenotypic Frontier in Prostate Cancer Metastasis and Resistance

Prostate cancer (PCa) mortality remains a significant public health problem, as advanced disease has poor survivability due to the development of resistance in response to both standard and novel therapeutic interventions. Therapeutic resistance is a multifaceted problem involving the interplay of a number of biological mechanisms including genetic, signaling, and phenotypic alterations, compounded by the contributions of a tumor microenvironment that supports tumor growth, invasiveness, and metastasis. The androgen receptor (AR) is a primary regulator of prostate cell growth, response and maintenance, and the target of most standard PCa therapies designed to inhibit AR from interacting with androgens, its native ligands. As such, AR remains the main driver of therapeutic response in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). While androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), in combination with microtubule-targeting taxane chemotherapy, offers survival benefits in patients with mCRPC, therapeutic resistance invariably develops, leading to lethal disease. Understanding the mechanisms underlying resistance is critical to improving therapeutic outcomes and also to the development of biomarker signatures of predictive value. The interconversions between epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition (MET) navigate the prostate tumor therapeutic response, and provide a novel targeting platform in overcoming therapeutic resistance. Both microRNA (miRNA)- and long non-coding RNA (lncRNA)-mediated mechanisms have been associated with epigenetic changes in prostate cancer. This review discusses the current evidence-based knowledge of the role of the phenotypic transitions and novel molecular determinants (non-coding RNAs) as contributors to the emergence of therapeutic resistance and metastasis and their integrated predictive value in prostate cancer progression to advanced disease.

Astragaloside IV alleviates atherosclerosis through targeting circ_0000231/miR-135a-5p/CLIC4 axis in AS cell model in vitro

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have shown to act as crucial mediators in atherosclerosis (AS) development. The purpose of our study was to explore the role of Astragaloside IV (ASV) and circular RNA_0000231 (circ_0000231) in AS using AS cell model. 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and flow cytometry were used to analyze cell viability and apoptosis. Migration ability was assessed by transwell migration assay and wound healing assay. The inflammatory response was evaluated via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Oxidative status was assessed via matching commercial kits. Western blot assay was conducted to detect the expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP1), intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM1), and chloride intracellular channel 4 (CLIC4). The levels of circ_0000231, its linear form Rho GTPase activating protein 12 (ARHGAP12), microRNA-135a-5p (miR-135a-5p), and CLIC4 messenger RNA (mRNA) were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Circ_0000231-miRNA interactions were established using Starbase and Circbank softwares, while the targets of miR-135a-5p were explored by Starbase software. Dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA-pull down assay were used to verify these target interactions. ASV suppressed the apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress while recovered the viability and migration ability of HUVECs which were mediated by oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL). Circ_0000231 overexpression antagonized the protective role of ASV in ox-LDL-induced HUVECs. MiR-135a-5p was verified as a direct target of circ_0000231, and circ_0000231 contributed to ox-LDL-induced cell injury of HUVECs through down-regulating miR-135a-5p. MiR-135a-5p directly interacted with the 3' untranslated region (3'-UTR) of CLIC4 mRNA in HUVECs, and miR-135a-5p protected HUVECs against ox-LDL-induced injury through down-regulating CLIC4. ASV protected HUVECs against ox-LDL-induced injury through targeting circ_0000231/miR-135a-5p/CLIC4 axis. Targeting circ_0000231/miR-135a-5p/CLIC4 axis might provide a novel insight to develop effective strategy for AS treatment.

Downregulation of lncRNA ZFAS1 inhibits the hallmarks of thyroid carcinoma via the regulation of miR‑302‑3p on cyclin&nbsp;D1

At present, treatment options for thyroid carcinoma remain limited. The present study aimed to investigate the role of ZFAS1 in various major hallmarks of cancer and the underlying mechanisms in thyroid carcinoma cells. The interactions between long non‑coding RNAs (lncRNAs), microRNAs (miRs) and target genes were predicted by bioinformatics and confirmed by performing dual‑luciferase assays. The mRNA and protein expressions were determined by reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR and western blotting. Cell invasion, migration, and viability were evaluated via Transwell, wound‑healing and Cell Counting Kit‑8 assays, respectively. The results demonstrated that lncRNA ZFAS1 expression was upregulated in thyroid carcinoma tissues, TT and SW579 cells, and was associated with the proliferation of these two cell lines. Notably, downregulation ZFAS1 reduced migration and invasion, and reversed the promotive effects of miR‑302a‑3p inhibitor on the proliferation, migration and invasion of TT and SW579 cells. Moreover, cyclin D1 (CCND1) is targeted by miR‑302a‑3p, and was regulated by ZFAS1. In addition, the downregulation of ZFAS1 not only reversed the promotive effects of miR‑302a‑3p inhibitor on CCND1 expression and the epithelial‑mesenchymal transition (EMT) of TT and SW579 cells, but also targeted and increased the expression of miR‑302a‑3p, and further reduced the expression of CCND1, resulting in suppression of the proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT of thyroid carcinoma cells.