Sevoflurane Regulates Glioma Progression by Circ_0002755/miR-628-5p/MAGT1 Axis

Sevoflurane suppresses colorectal cancer malignancy by modulating β-catenin ubiquitination degradation via circSKA3

BACKGROUND

Sevoflurane (SEV), a commonly used inhalational anesthetic, reportedly inhibits colorectal cancer (CRC) malignancy, but whether SEV can inhibit the malignancy of CRC by regulating circular RNAs (circRNAs) remains unclear. Therefore, we aimed to identify specific circRNAs that may be affected by SEV and to investigate their functional roles in CRC.

METHODS

RT-qPCR was employed to detect the expression of circRNAs and mRNAs in CRC cells and tissues. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) was used to determine the location of circSKA3. Protein expression was assessed by western blot analysis. Function-based in vitro and in vivo experiments, including CCK-8, colony formation, transwell, and apoptosis assays and mouse xenograft tumor models, were conducted using circSKA3-knockdown and circSKA3-overexpression cell lines. RNA immunoprecipitation, RNA pull-down and mass spectrometry analyses were performed to explore the related mechanism.

RESULTS

Our findings revealed that SEV could inhibit CRC cell activity, proliferation and migration and promote apoptosis in CRC cells. We found that circSKA3 was upregulated in CRC and associated with poorer survival and that its expression could be reduced by SEV. The overexpression of circSKA3 reversed the effects of SEV on inhibiting cell activity, proliferation and migration and promoting apoptosis. The mechanistic analysis revealed that circSKA3 could bind to the ARM structural domain of β-catenin and thereby disrupt its interaction with the CK1/GSK3β/β-TrCP1 destruction complex, resulting in the ubiquitinated degradation of β-catenin and the activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling. In addition, SEV downregulated circSKA3 in vivo to inhibit tumor growth.

CONCLUSIONS

All the results showed that SEV could inhibit CRC progression via circSKA3 by increasing β-catenin ubiquitination degradation.

Sevoflurane inhibits oral squamous carcinoma progression by modulating the circ_0000857/miR-145-5p axis

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a kind of oral malignant tumor with the highest incidence. This study investigated whether sevoflurane (SEV) inhibited OSCC cell progression by regulating circular RNA_0000857 (circ_0000857). OSCC cells were anesthetized with SEV at different concentrations. The expression of circ_0000857 and microRNA-145-5p (miR-145-5p) were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Cell viability was assayed by the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), and cell migration and invasion were examined by the wound-healing assay and transwell. Tube formation assay detected angiogenesis. Western blot was used to detect the expression of related proteins. Compared with the control group, SEV inhibited OSCC cell migration, invasion, and angiogenesis. SEV treatment significantly decreased circ_0000857 expression level, but increased miR-145-5p expression level in SCC4 and HSC3 cells. MiR-145-5p was a target of circ_0000857, and miR-145-5p inhibitor reversed the suppressing effects mediated by circ_0000857 silencing on OSCC cell migration, invasion, and angiogenesis. SEV inhibited the level of matrix metalloproteinases 2 (MMP2), MMP9, and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) protein by regulating the circ_0000857/miR-145-5p axis. In all, SEV regulated the migration, invasion, and angiogenesis of OSCC cells through the circ_0000857/miR-145-5p axis, which provided a basis for the potential role of SEV in the treatment of OSCC.

Double-edged sword role of miRNA-633 and miRNA-181 in human cancers

Understanding the function and mode of operation of microRNAs (miRNAs) in cancer is of growing interest. The short non-coding RNAs known as miRNAs, which target mRNA in multicellular organisms, are described as controlling essential cellular processes. The miR-181 family and miR-633 are well-known miRNAs that play a key role in the development and metastasis of tumor cells. They may facilitate either tumor-suppressive or oncogenic function in malignant cells, according to mounting evidence. Metastatic cells that are closely linked to cancer cell migration, invasion, and angiogenesis can be identified by abnormal levels of miR-181 and miR-633. Numerous studies have demonstrated their capacity to control drug resistance, cell growth, apoptosis, and the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and metastasis process. Interestingly, the levels of miR-181 and miR-633 and their potential target genes in the basic cellular process can vary depending on the type of cancer cells and their gene expression profile. Such miRNAs' interactions with other non-coding RNAs such as long non-coding RNAs and circular RNAs can influence tumor behaviors. Herein, we concentrated on the multifaceted roles of miR-181 and miR-633 and potential targets in human tumorigenesis, ranging from cell growth and metastasis to drug resistance.

Sevoflurane exerts protection against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury and pyroptosis through the circular RNA PAN3/microRNA-29b-3p/stromal cell-derived factor 4 axis

OBJECTIVE

Sevoflurane is suggested to exert protective functions against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI). However, the particular mechanism remains elusive. Therefore, this research explored the mechanism of sevoflurane in MIRI-induced damage and pyroptosis.

METHODS

Subsequent to gain-or loss-of-function assays or/and sevoflurane treatment, the MIRI model was developed in rats. Cardiac function and body and heart weight of rats were evaluated, followed by measurement of apoptosis and creatine kinase MB (CK-MB), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and pyroptosis-related protein levels. After loss-of-function assays or/and sevoflurane treatment in human cardiomyocytes (HCMs), the hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) model was constructed. In HCMs, cell viability, apoptosis, and pyroptosis-related proteins were detected. Circular RNA PAN3 (circPAN3), microRNA (miR)-29b-3p, and stromal cell-derived factor 4 (SDF4) expression was determined in rat myocardial tissues and HCMs. Mechanistically, interactions among circPAN3, miR-29b-3p, and SDF4 were analyzed.

RESULTS

MIRI modeling increased miR-29b-3p expression and diminished circPAN3 and SDF4 expression in H/R-treated HCMs and MIRI rats, which was nullified by sevoflurane preconditioning. Mechanistically, circPAN3 negatively targeted miR-29b-3p to upregulate SDF4. Moreover, sevoflurane preconditioning reduced heart weight/body weight ratio, LDH, CK-MB, myocardial infarct size, left ventricular end-diastolic pressure, apoptosis, and pyroptosis, while elevating the increase and decrease of left ventricular pressure (±dp/dt _max) and left ventricular systolic pressure in MIRI rats. In addition, sevoflurane preconditioning augmented viability while diminishing apoptosis and pyroptosis in H/R-treated HCMs. Moreover, circPAN3 silencing or miR-29b-3p overexpression abrogated alleviatory effects of sevoflurane on myocardial injury and pyroptosis in vitro.

CONCLUSION

Sevoflurane treatment ameliorated myocardial injury and pyroptosis in MIRI via circPAN3/miR-29b-3p/SDF4 axis.

PRDX6-mediated pulmonary artery endothelial cell ferroptosis contributes to monocrotaline-induced pulmonary hypertension

BACKGROUND

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a life-threatening cardiopulmonary disorder whose underlying pathogenesis is unknown. Our previous study showed that pulmonary endothelial cell (PAEC) ferroptosis is involved in the progression of PH by releasing High-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) and activating Toll-like receptor 4/NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (TLR4/NLRP3) inflammasome signalling. The precise mechanisms that regulate ferroptosis in PH are unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effect of peroxiredoxin 6 (PRDX6) on PAEC ferroptosis in PH.

METHODS

A rat model of PH was established with monocrotaline (MCT), and the distribution and expression of PRDX6 in the pulmonary artery were examined. Lentiviral vectors carrying PRDX6 (LV-PRDX6) were transfected into PAECs and injected into MCT-induced PH rats. Cell viability, MDA levels, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, labile iron pool (LIP) levels and mitochondrial morphology were examined. Ferroptosis-related proteins (NADPH oxidase-4 (NOX4), glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), and ferritin heavy chain 1(FTH1)), TLR4, NLRP3 inflammasome markers, HMGB1 and inflammatory cytokines were examined. Pulmonary vascular remodelling and right ventricular structure and function were measured.

RESULTS

PRDX6 was expressed in PAECs and was significantly decreased in PH. PRDX6 overexpression significantly inhibited ferroptosis in PAECs under PH conditions in vitro and in vivo, as indicated by increased cell viability, decreased MDA, ROS and LIP levels, inhibited mitochondrial damage, upregulated GPX4 and FTH1 expression, and downregulated NOX4 expression. PRDX6 overexpression attenuated pulmonary vascular remodelling and changes in right ventricle structure and function in MCT-induced PH rats. Moreover, PRDX6 overexpression prevented HMGB1 release by PAECs and decreased TLR4 and NLRP3 inflammasome expression and inflammatory cytokine release in macrophages, while RSL3, a specific activator of ferroptosis, reversed these effects.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, these findings indicate that PRDX6 regulates PAEC ferroptosis through the release of HMGB1 and activation of the TLR4/NLRP3 inflammasome signalling pathway, providing novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of PH.

CircUBE3B High Expression Participates in Sevoflurane-Induced Human Hippocampal Neuron Injury via Targeting miR-326 and Regulating MYD88 Expression

The clinical application of Sevoflurane (Sevo) brings about non-negligible neuron injury, leading to postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD). However, related pathogenesis is complex and not fully established. We aimed to disclose the role of circRNA UBE3B (circUBE3B) in neuron injury induced by Sevo. Cell viability and apoptosis were determined by CCK-8 and flow cytometry experiments. Inflammation production was monitored by ELISA. The expression of circUBE3B, miR-326, and myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MYD88) mRNA was assessed by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). Apoptosis-associated markers and MYD88 protein were quantified by western blot. The putative binding site between miR-326 and circUBE3B or MYD88 was verified by a dual-luciferase reporter experiment, and their binding was validated by a pull-down assay. Sevo treatment weakened cell viability and promoted cell apoptosis and inflammatory response. CircUBE3B expression was elevated in Sevo-treated neurons. Sevo-induced neuron injury was alleviated by circUBE3B downregulation but aggravated by circUBE3B overexpression. MiR-326 was targeted by circUBE3B, and miR-326 inhibition recovered neuron injury that was repressed by circUBE3B absence in Sevo-treated neurons. MiR-326 interacted with MYD88. MiR-326 enrichment attenuated Sevo-induced neuron injury, while these effects were reversed by MYD88 overexpression. CircUBE3B dysregulation was involved in Sevo-induced human hippocampal neuron injury via targeting the miR-326/MYD88 network.

Transcription factor KLF16 activates MAGT1 to regulate the tumorigenesis and progression of breast cancer

Breast cancer is the most frequent cause of cancer-related mortality among women worldwide. The present study aimed to explore the role of magnesium transporter protein 1 (MAGT1) in breast cancer and to illustrate the potential underlying molecular mechanisms. Bioinformatic analysis was performed to explore the association between MAGT1 expression and patients with breast cancer. MTT, colony formation, wound healing and Transwell assays were performed to examine the proliferative, migratory and invasive abilities of MCF-7 cells. Western blot analysis was conducted to determine the corresponding protein expression. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and luciferase reporter assays were carried out to reveal the interaction between MAGT1 and the Kruppel-like factor 16 (KLF16). In addition, an experimental animal model was established by the subcutaneous injection of MCF-7 cells into BALB/c nude mice, and tumor weight and size were measured. The results revealed that MAGT1 expression was upregulated in breast cancer. MAGT1 knockdown significantly suppressed the MCF-7 cell proliferative, migratory and invasive abilities, and downregulated the protein expression of Ki67, proliferating cell nuclear antigen, MMP2 and MMP9. MAGT1 knockdown also markedly suppressed tumor growth in vivo. Moreover, KLF6 could bind to the MAGT1 promoter and positively regulate MAGT1 expression. The inhibitory effects of KLF6 knockdown on cell proliferation, migration and invasion in vitro, and tumor growth in vivo were partly abolished by MAGT1 overexpression. On the whole, the findings of the present study suggest that MAGT1 knockdown exerts notable inhibitory effects on the progression of breast cancer, providing a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of breast cancer.

Sevoflurane inhibits the malignant phenotypes of glioma through regulating miR-146b-5p/NFIB axis

PURPOSE

Sevoflurane is a common used inhaled anesthetic that was reported to regulate the progression of multiple cancers. Here, we aimed to investigate the function and regulatory mechanism underlying sevoflurane in glioma cells.

METHODS

A172 and U251 cells were treated with different concentrations of sevoflurane. Colony formation, EdU satining and 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT), flow cytometry, and transwell assays were performed to evaluate cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion, respectively. Circ_VCAN, microRNA-146b-5p (miR-146b-5p) and nuclear factor I B (NFIB) expression levels were assessed by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) or western blot. Bioinformatics analysis and dual-luciferase reporter assay were applied to evaluate the correlation between miR-146b-5p and circ_VCAN or NFIB. A xenograft glioma mice model was established to verify the effect of sevoflurane on tumor growth in vivo.

RESULTS

Sevoflurane (Sev) inhibited proliferation, migration, invasion, and elevated apoptosis of A172 and U251 cells. Sevoflurane treatment inhibited the expression of circ_VCAN and NFIB, but elevated the expression of miR-146b-5p in glioma cells. Overexpression of circ_VCAN alleviated the inhibition effects of sevoflurane on the malignant phenotypes of glioma in vitro and in vivo. Besides, miR-146b-5p is a target of circ_VCAN and negatively regulated NFIB expression. Overexpression of miR-146b-5p partly reversed the effects of circ_VCAN in Sev-treated glioma cells. Furthermore, miR-146b-5p deletion enhanced glioma progression in sevoflurane treated glioma cells by targeting NFIB. Moreover, circ_VCAN could upregulate NFIB expression by sponging miR-146b-5p in Sev-treated glioma cells.

CONCLUSION

Sevoflurane alleviated proliferation, migration and invasion, but enhanced apoptosis of glioma cells through regulating circ_VCAN/miR-146b-5p/NFIB axis.

Oncogenic magnesium transporter 1 upregulates programmed death-1-ligand 1 expression and contributes to growth and radioresistance of glioma cells through the ERK/MAPK signaling pathway

Radiotherapy has been established as a major therapeutic modality for glioma, whereas new therapeutic targets are needed to prevent tumor recurrence. This study intends to explore the regulatory role of magnesium transporter 1 (MAGT1) in radiotherapy resistance of glioma through modulating ERK and programmed death-1-ligand 1 (PD-L1). Our bioinformatics analysis identified differentially expressed MAGT1 in glioma, expression of which was subsequently determined in cohort data of TCGA database and microarray dataset as well as glioma cell lines. Artificial modulation of MAGT1, ERK, and PD-L1 expression was performed to examine their effects on glioma cell proliferation and radioresistance, as reflected by MTT and colony formation assays under irradiation. Mouse glioma cells with manipulated MAGT1 and ERK inhibitors were further injected into mice to assess the in vivo tumor formation ability of glioma cells. It was noted that MAGT1 expression was highly expressed in glioma tissues of TCGA data and microarray dataset, which was then validated in glioma cell lines. Ectopic expression of MAGT1 was revealed to promote the proliferation and radioresistance of glioma cells, which was attributed to the MAGT1-mediated activation of the ERK/MAPK signaling pathway. It was illuminated that MAGT1 stimulated PD-L1 expression through the ERK/MAPK pathway and thus facilitated glioma cell growth. Additionally, MAGT1 overexpression accelerated the in vivo tumor formation of glioma cells, while the ERK inhibitor negated its effect. In conclusion, MAGT1 enhances the growth and radioresistance of glioma cells through the ERK/MAPK signaling pathway-mediated upregulation of PD-L1 expression.

In Vitro Carcinogenicity Test of a Copper-Containing Intrauterine Device

The aim is to study the cellular carcinogenicity of a copper-containing intrauterine device (IUD). So we analyzed the chemical elements of copper-containing IUDs. After that, we used Bhas42 cells in initiation and promotion assays to evaluate the leaching solution that extracted from the copper-containing IUDs at serial dilutions. In the cell carcinogenic experiment, the number of cell foci with malignant transformation was calculated. Although we uncovered no significant differences between the leaching solution at different concentrations and the negative control in the initiation assay, the sample at four concentrations showed significant differences relative to the negative control in the promotion assay (chi-squared test, p < 0.01). Therefore, we preliminarily evaluated that copper-containing IUDs are nongenotoxic carcinogen. Impact statement For the first time, we executed two-stage transformation assays with Bhas42 cells to assess the potential carcinogenicity of a copper-containing intrauterine device (IUD). In this study, we demonstrated that the copper-containing IUD manifested nongenotoxic carcinogenicity, making this the first-ever published report regarding this type of IUD's nongenotoxic carcinogenicity and revealing that its use carries a cancer risk.

Non-coding RNAs and glioblastoma: Insight into their roles in metastasis

Glioma, also known as glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), is the most prevalent and most lethal primary brain tumor in adults. Gliomas are highly invasive tumors with the highest death rate among all primary brain malignancies. Metastasis occurs as the tumor cells spread from the site of origin to another site in the brain. Metastasis is a multifactorial process, which depends on alterations in metabolism, genetic mutations, and the cancer microenvironment. During recent years, the scientific study of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) has led to new insight into the molecular mechanisms involved in glioma. Many studies have reported that ncRNAs play major roles in many biological procedures connected with the development and progression of glioma. Long ncRNAs (lncRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs) are all types of ncRNAs, which are commonly dysregulated in GBM. Dysregulation of ncRNAs can facilitate the invasion and metastasis of glioma. The present review highlights some ncRNAs that have been associated with metastasis in GBM. miRNAs, circRNAs, and lncRNAs are discussed in detail with respect to their relevant signaling pathways involved in metastasis.

Sevoflurane Induces Ferroptosis of Glioma Cells Through Activating the ATF4-CHAC1 Pathway

Objective

To clarify the function and mechanisms of sevoflurane (Sev) on ferroptosis in glioma cells.

Methods

Different concentrations of Sev were used to treat glioma cells U87 and U251. Ferroptosis inducer Erastin was used to incubate glioma cells combined with Sev and ATF4 siRNA transfection treatment. CCK-8 assay and colorimetric assay were performed to analyze cell viability and Fe+ concentration, respectively. The releases of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were determined by flow cytometry analysis. Transcriptional sequencing was used to screen the differential genes affected by Sev in U251 cells. The mRNA and protein expression of ferroptosis-associated genes was detected by qRT-PCR and Western blotting.

Results

Sev could suppress cell viability, increase ROS levels and Fe+ concentration, downregulate the protein expression levels of GPX4, and upregulate transferrin, ferritin, and Beclin-1 in a dose-dependent manner in U87 and U251 cells. The expression of ferroptosis and mitophagy-related gene activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) was identified to be enhanced by Sev analyzed by transcriptional sequencing. ChaC glutathione-specific gamma-glutamylcyclotransferase 1 (CHAC1), which is involved in ferroptosis, is a downstream gene of ATF4. Inhibition of ATF4 could interrupt the expression of CHAC1 induced by Sev in U87 and U251 cells. Ferroptosis inducer Erastin treatment obviously inhibited the cell viability, elevated the Fe2+ concentration, and promoted ROS generation in U87 and U251 cells. The protein level of ATF4 and CHAC1 was increased in Erastin-treated U87 and U251 cells. Moreover, the interruption of Sev-induced ferroptosis and CHAC1 activating induced by ATF4 suppression could be reversed by Erastin.

Conclusions

In summary, this study suggested that Sev exposure-induced ferroptosis by the ATF4-CHAC1 pathway in glioma cells.

Sevoflurane represses the progression of glioma by the regulation of circ_0037655/miR-130a-5p/RPN2 axis

Sevoflurane (SEV) is a common anesthetic to inhibit glioma progression. The previous studies have indicated the molecular mechanisms of SEV function in glioma. The objective of this study was to explore the association of circ_00037655 with SEV in glioma. Cell viability was evaluated by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Cell proliferation was analyzed using Edu assay and colony formation assay. Flow cytometry was applied to determine cell apoptosis. Protein analysis was performed via western blot. Cell migration and invasion were assessed by transwell assay. Circ_0037655, microRNA-130a-5p (miR-130a-5p) and ribophorin II (RPN2) levels were detected using the quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Dual-luciferase reporter, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and pull-down assays were used to analyze target interaction. The effect of circ_0037655 on SEV in vivo was researched by xenograft models. SEV reduced cell viability, proliferation, migration and invasion but induced apoptosis of glioma cells. Circ_0037655 expression was inhibited after SEV treatment in glioma cells. The effects of SEV on glioma cell behaviors were attenuated by upregulation of circ_0037655. Circ_0037655 interacted with miR-130a-5p and miR-130a-5p targeted RPN2. Circ_0037655 or miR-130a-5p regulated the anti-tumor function of SEV in glioma by targeting miR-130a-5p or RPN2. Circ_0037655 affected the expression of RPN2 via targeting miR-130a-5p. Circ_0037655 relieved SEV-induced glioma growth inhibition in vivo by mediating miR-130a-5p and RPN2 levels. SEV inhibited the malignant progression of glioma cells partly by regulating the circ_0037655/miR-130a-5p/RPN2 axis.

Sevoflurane Suppresses the Proliferation, Migration and Invasion of Colorectal Cancer Through Regulating Circ_0000423/miR-525-5p/SGPP1 Network

Introduction

Sevoflurane (SEV) has been shown to inhibit the malignant progression in many cancers, including colorectal cancer (CRC). However, it is not clear whether SEV regulates the progression of CRC by mediating the circular RNA (circRNA) axis.

Methods

Different concentrations of SEV were used to treat CRC cells. Cell proliferation, migration and invasion were determined by cell counting kit 8 assay, colony formation assay and transwell assay. The expression of circ_0000423, microRNA (miR)-525-5p and sphingosine-1-phosphate phosphatase 1 (SGPP1) mRNA was measured by quantitative real-time PCR. Cell apoptosis was assessed using flow cytometry, and protein expression was measured by western blot analysis. Dual-luciferase reporter assay and RIP assay were performed to confirm the interactions among circ_0000423, miR-525-5p and SGPP1. Animal experiments were performed to explore the effect of SEV and circ_0000423 on CRC tumorigenesis.

Results

SEV could inhibit CRC cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Circ_0000423 was upregulated in CRC and its expression could be reduced by SEV. Overexpressed circ_0000423 reversed the inhibitory effect of SEV on CRC cell proliferation, migration and invasion and the promotion effect on cell apoptosis. MiR-525-5p could be sponged by circ_0000423, and its overexpression also abolished the regulation of circ_0000423 on the progression of SEV-treated CRC cells. In addition, SGPP1 was confirmed to be a target of miR-525-5p, and its expression was positively regulated by circ_0000423. MiR-525-5p inhibitor promoted CRC cell progression under the treatment of SEV, while these effects could be overturned by SGPP1 silencing. Furthermore, the inhibition effect of SEV on CRC tumorigenesis also could be abolished by overexpressing circ_0000423.

Conclusion

Our results showed that SEV inhibited CRC progression through the regulation of circ_0000423/miR-525-5p/SGPP1 axis.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12195-021-00717-5.

Effect of Inhalation Anesthetics on Tumor Metastasis

Many factors affect the prognosis of patients undergoing tumor surgery, and anesthesia is one of the potential influencing factors. In general anesthesia, inhalation anesthesia is widely used in the clinic because of its strong curative effect and high controllability. However, the effect of inhalation anesthetics on the tumor is still controversial. More and more research has proved that inhalation anesthetics can intervene in local recurrence and distant metastasis of tumor by acting on tumor biological behavior, immune response, and gene regulation. In this paper, we reviewed the research progress of diverse inhalation anesthetics promoting or inhibiting cancer in the critical events of tumor recurrence and metastasis, and compared the effects of inhalation anesthetics on patients' prognosis in clinical studies, to provide theoretical reference for anesthesia management of patients undergoing tumor surgery.

TCF12 activates MAGT1 expression to regulate the malignant progression of pancreatic carcinoma cells

As a highly malignant gastrointestinal tumor, pancreatic carcinoma (PC) has poor prognosis due to its low early diagnosis rate, advanced tumor resection and chemotherapy resistance. Magnesium transporter 1 (MAGT1) is a magnesium ion transporter located on the cell membrane, which shows promotive effects on biological behaviors of multiple tumor cells. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of MAGT1 in the progression of PC and its potential molecular mechanism. Based on the Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis website, MAGT1 was highly expressed in tissues from patients with PC and was associated with poor prognosis. In functional experiments, MAGT1 was highly expressed in PC cell lines. The Cell Counting Kit-8, gap closure and Transwell assays, and western blot analysis, were used to investigate the effects of MAGT1 overexpression or knockdown on the biological behaviors of PC cells. It was found that MAGT1 promoted the proliferation, migration and invasion of PC cells in vitro. According to the Encyclopedia of RNA Interactomes website, transcription factor 12 (TCF12) mRNA expression level was positively correlated with MAGT1 expression level in the tissues from patients with PC. Positive targeting regulation of MAGT1 by TCF12 was also confirmed using a dual-luciferase gene reporter assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation. In addition, knockdown of TCF12 expression inhibited the proliferation and migration of PC cells, but overexpression of MAGT1 expression partly reversed this. These results suggested that TCF12 could promote the proliferation, migration and invasion of PC cells by activating MAGT1 expression, which was associated with poor prognosis. These findings suggest that MAGT1 could be a promising biomarker for the occurrence, progression and prognosis of PC.

Sevoflurane inhibits progression of glioma via regulating the HMMR antisense RNA 1/microRNA-7/cyclin dependent kinase 4 axis

Sevoflurane (Sev) is a volatile anesthetic that can inhibit tumor malignancy. Glioma is a main brain problem, but the mechanism of Sev in glioma progression is largely unclear. This study aims to explore a potential regulatory network of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA)/microRNA (miRNA)/mRNA associated with the function of Sev in glioma progression. LncRNA HMMR antisense RNA 1 (HMMR-AS1), miR-7 and cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4) abundances were examined via quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and western blot. Cell viability, invasion, and colony formation ability were analyzed via cell counting kit-8, transwell analysis, and colony formation. The target association was analyzed via dual-luciferase reporter analysis and RNA pull-down. The in vivo function of Sev was investigated by xenograft model. HMMR-AS1 abundance was increased in glioma tissues and cells, and reduced via Sev. Sev constrained cell viability, invasion, and colony formation ability via decreasing HMMR-AS1 in glioma cells. miR-7 expression was decreased in glioma, and was targeted via HMMR-AS1. HMMR-AS1 silence restrained cell viability, invasion, and colony formation ability by up-regulating miR-7 in glioma cells. Sev increases miR-7 abundance via decreasing HMMR-AS1. CDK4 was targeted via miR-7, and highly expressed in glioma. miR-7 overexpression inhibited cell viability, invasion, and colony formation ability via reducing CDK4 in glioma cells. CDK4 expression was reduced by Sev via HMMR-AS1/miR-7 axis. Sev suppressed cell growth in glioma by regulating HMMR-AS1. Sev represses glioma cell progression by regulating HMMR-AS1/miR-7/CDK4 axis.

MicroRNA-367-3p suppresses sevoflurane-induced adult rat astrocyte apoptosis by targeting BCL2L11

The present study aimed to characterize the effect of microRNA (miR)-367-3p on sevoflurane anesthesia and elucidate the underlying mechanism. A total of 36 4-month-old adult Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into six groups. Sevoflurane was inhaled at concentrations of 0, 1, 2, 4, 8 and 16% for a total of 6 h; the hippocampus of the brain was subsequently minced and digested, and astrocytes were isolated. Various methods, including reverse transcription-quantitative (RT-q)PCR, western blotting and TUNEL staining, were used to determine the expression levels of Bax, BCL-2 and BCL-2-like protein 11 (BCL2L11), as well as the level of apoptosis. The rats were treated with 8% sevoflurane and the astrocytes from the rats were transfected with miR-367-3p or anti-miR-367-3p. The present study demonstrated that sevoflurane promoted astrocytes apoptosis. Western blotting revealed that with an increase of sevoflurane concentration, the expression levels of the apoptotic proteins Bax and BCL2L11 were significantly increased, whereas the protein expression levels of BCL-2 were significantly decreased. However, overexpression of miR-367-3p reversed these effects. TUNEL staining revealed that sevoflurane promoted the apoptosis of astrocytes, while apoptosis was reversed by miR-367-3p overexpression. RT-qPCR demonstrated that sevoflurane inhibited the expression of miR-367-3p. Notably, miR-367-3p reduced the expression of BCL2L11, thereby inhibiting the apoptosis of astrocytes originating from the hippocampal area of adult rats induced by sevoflurane. Therefore, miR-367-3p and BCL2L11 may act as effective targets for the study of anesthesia.

Research Progress on Circular RNA in Glioma

The discovery of circular RNA (circRNA) greatly complements the traditional gene expression theory. CircRNA is a class of non-coding RNA with a stable cyclic structure. They are highly expressed, spatiotemporal-specific and conservative across species. Importantly, circRNA participates in the occurrence of many kinds of tumors and regulates the tumor development. Glioma is featured by limited therapy and grim prognosis. Cancer-associated circRNA compromises original function or creates new effects in glioma, thus contributing to oncogenesis. Therefore, this article reviews the biogenesis, metabolism, functions and properties of circRNA as a novel potential biomarker for gliomas. We elaborate the expression characteristics, interaction between circRNA and other molecules, aiming to identify new targets for early diagnosis and treatment of gliomas.

Targeting miRNAs with anesthetics in cancer: Current understanding and future perspectives

Anesthetics are extensively used during cancer surgeries. The progression of cancer can be influenced by perioperative events such as exposure to general or local anesthesia. However, whether they inhibit cancer or act as a causative factor for metastasis and exert deleterious effects on cancer growth differs based on the type of cancer and the therapy administration. Recent experimental data suggested that many of the most commonly used anesthetics in surgical oncology, whether general or local agents, can alter gene expression and cause epigenetic changes via modulating miRNAs. miRNAs are single-stranded non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression at various levels, and their dysregulation contributes to the pathogenesis of cancers. However, anesthetics via regulating miRNAs can concurrently target several effectors of cellular signaling pathways involved in cell differentiation, proliferation, and viability. This review summarized the current research about the effects of different anesthetics in regulating cancer, with a particular emphasis on the role of miRNAs. A significant number of studies conducted in this area of research illuminate the effects of anesthetics on the regulation of miRNA expression; therefore, we hope that a thorough understanding of the underlying mechanisms involved in the regulation of miRNA in the context of anesthesia-induced cancer regulation could help to define optimal anesthetic regimens and provide better perspectives for further studies.

Sevoflurane impedes glioma progression via regulating circ_0000215/miR-1200/NCR3LG1 axis

Sevoflurane has been reported to have anti-tumorigenic effects in glioma. Circ_0000215 was found to play vital functions in the pathological progressions of glioma. However, whether circ_0000215 mediates the inhibitory effects of sevoflurane on glioma cells remains unclear. In vitro assays were performed using cell counting kit-8, flow cytometry, transwell and Western blot assays. The expression levels of circ_0000215, microRNA (miR)-1200 and NCR3LG1 (Natural Killer Cell Cytotoxicity Receptor 3 Ligand 1) were detected using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and/or Western blot. The dual-luciferase reporter assay and pull-down assay were used to investigate the relationship between miR-1200 and circ_0000215 or NCR3LG1. In vivo assay was conducted using xenograft nude mice model. In vitro assays suggested that sevoflurane repressed glioma cell proliferation, metastasis and induced apoptosis as well as hindered tumor growth in vivo, which were reversed by circ_0000215 overexpression. Mechanically, circ_0000215 was confirmed to directly target miR-1200, and NCR3LG1 was a target of miR-1200 in glioma cells. Importantly, circ_0000215 could regulate NCR3LG1 expression via miR-1200. Besides that, rescue assay suggested that circ_0000215 attenuated the inhibitory effects of sevoflurane on glioma cell growth and metastasis, which were reversed by miR-1200 overexpression or NCR3LG1 knockdown. Our study revealed that sevoflurane could suppress glioma tumorigenesis by regulating circ_0000215/miR-1200/NCR3LG1 axis, suggesting a new insight into the therapeutic potential of sevoflurane in glioma treatment.

Sevoflurane blocks glioma malignant development by upregulating circRELN through circRELN-mediated miR-1290/RORA axis

Background

Sevoflurane (Sev) has been reported to inhibit cancer development, and sevoflurane treatment in cancers is implicated with the deregulation of specific non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). This study aimed to investigate the relationship between sevoflurane and circular RNA reelin (circRELN) in glioma.

Methods

The expression of circRELN, microRNA-1290 (miR-1290) and RAR-related orphan receptor A (RORA) was measured by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). Cell proliferative capacity was assessed by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) and colony formation assays. Cell apoptosis and cell cycle distribution were monitored by flow cytometry assay. Cell migration was assessed by wound healing assay and transwell assay, and cell invasion was assessed by transwell assay. The protein levels of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2), MMP9 and RORA were quantified by western blot. Tumor growth in vivo was assessed by Xenograft models. The binding relationship between miR-1290 and circRELN or RORA was verified by dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay.

Results

We found that circRELN expression was declined in glioma tissues and cells, while Sev treatment enhanced circRELN expression. In function, Sev notably inhibited glioma cell proliferation, migration and invasion and promoted apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, while circRELN knockdown reversed these effects. MiR-1290 served as a target of circRELN, and glioma cell malignant phenotypes recovered by circRELN knockdown were partly repressed by miR-1290 deficiency. In addition, RORA was a target of miR-1290, and glioma cell malignant phenotypes promoted by miR-1290 restoration were partly blocked by RORA overexpression. CircRELN regulated RORA expression by targeting miR-1290. In Xenograft models, Sev inhibited tumor growth by upregulating circRELN.

Conclusion

Sev blocked the progression of glioma by increasing circRELN expression, and circRELN played roles in glioma partly by regulating the miR-1290/RORA network.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12871-021-01427-1.

Sevoflurane inhibits malignant progression of colorectal cancer via hsa_circ_0000231-mediated miR-622

Background

Sevoflurane (Sev), a commonly used volatile anesthetic, has been reported to inhibit the process of colorectal cancer (CRC). Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are revealed to participate in the pathogenesis of CRC. This study aims to reveal the mechanism of hsa_circ_0000231 in Sev-mediated CRC progression.

Methods

The expression of hsa_circ_0000231 and microRNA-622 (miR-622) was detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Protein level was determined by western blot analysis. Cell proliferation was investigated by 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT), cell colony formation and DNA content quantitation assays. Cell apoptosis was detected by Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate and propidium iodide double staining and caspase 3 activity assays. Cell migration and invasion were investigated by wound-healing and transwell invasion assays, respectively. The putative relationship between hsa_circ_0000231 and miR-622 was predicted by circular RNA Interactome online database, and identified by dual-luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation assays. The impacts of hsa_circ_0000231 on Sev-mediated tumor formation in vivo were presented by in vivo assay.

Results

Hsa_circ_0000231 expression was upregulated, while miR-622 was downregulated in CRC tissues and cells compared with control groups. Sev treatment decreased hsa_circ_0000231 expression, but increased miR-622 expression in CRC cells. Sev treatment suppressed cell proliferation, migration and invasion, and induced cell apoptosis. Hsa_circ_0000231 overexpression restored Sev-mediated CRC progression in vitro. Additionally, hsa_circ_0000231 acted as a sponge of miR-622, and miR-622 inhibitors reversed the impacts of hsa_circ_0000231 silencing on CRC process. Furthermore, Sev treatment inhibited tumor growth by regulating hsa_circ_0000231 in vivo.

Conclusion

Hsa_circ_0000231 attenuated Sev-aroused repression impacts on CRC development by sponging miR-622. This findings may provide an appropriate anesthetic protocol for CRC sufferers undergoing surgery.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40709-021-00145-6.

Tip of the Iceberg: Roles of CircRNAs in Cancer Glycolysis

Warburg effect reflects that tumor cells tend to generate energy by aerobic glycolysis rather than oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), thus promoting the development of malignant tumors. As a kind of non-coding RNA, circular RNA (circRNA) is characterized by a closed ring structure and emerges as a regulator of cancer metabolism. Mounting studies revealed that circRNA can regulate the cancer metabolism process through affecting the expression of glycolysis relevant enzymes, transcription factors (TFs), and signaling pathways. In this review, we comprehensively analyzed and concluded the mechanism of circRNA regulating glycolysis, hoping to deepen the cognition of the cancer metabolic regulatory network and to reap huge fruits in targeted cancer treatment.

Hsa_circ_0091581 promotes glioma progression by regulating RMI1 via sponging miR-1243-5p

Glioma is a pervasive malignancy and the main cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Circular RNA is an important subject of cancer research, and its role and function in glioma are poorly understood. This study demonstrated that hsa_circ_0091581 is upregulated in glioma tissues and cells. The results of the CCK-8, EdU, and transwell assays indicated that hsa_circ_0091581 promotes proliferation, migration, and invasion of glioma cells. The results of the luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation assays indicated that the mechanism of the effects of hsa_circ_0091581 on glioma cells involves sponging miR-1243-5p to regulate RMI1. The results of the rescue experiments indicated that hsa_circ_0091581 regulates proliferation, migration, and invasion of glioma cells by targeting RMI1 in a miR-1243-5p dependent manner. The results of the nude mice xenograft assays showed that knockdown of hsa_circ_0091581 inhibits glioma growth in vivo. Thus, our study determined the role of hsa_circ_0091581/miR-1243-5p/RMI1 in glioma and suggests that this axis may be a novel therapeutic target in glioma.