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Cui M, Liu Z, Wang S, Bae S, Guo H, Zhou J, Liu R, Wang L. CRISPR-based dissection of microRNA-23a ~ 27a ~ 24-2 cluster functionality in hepatocellular carcinoma. Oncogene 2024; 43:2708-2721. [PMID: 39112518 PMCID: PMC11364504 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-024-03115-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024]
Abstract
The miR-23a ~ 27a ~ 24-2 cluster, commonly upregulated in diverse cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), raises questions about the specific functions of its three mature miRNAs and their integrated function. Utilizing CRISPR knockout (KO), CRISPR interference (CRISPRi), and CRISPR activation (CRISPRa) technologies, we established controlled endogenous miR-23a ~ 27 ~ a24-2 cell models to unravel their roles and signaling pathways in HCC. Both miR-23a KO and miR-27a KO displayed reduced cell growth in vitro and in vivo, revealing an integrated oncogenic function. Functional analysis indicated cell cycle arrest, particularly at the G2/M phase, through the downregulation of CDK1/cyclin B activation. High-throughput RNA-seq, combined with miRNA target prediction, unveiled the miR-23a/miR-27a-regulated gene network, validated through diverse technologies. While miR-23a and miR-27a exhibited opposing roles in cell migration and mesenchymal-epithelial transition, an integrated CRISPRi/a analysis suggested an oncogenic role of the miR-23a ~ 27a ~ 24-2 cluster in cell migration. This involvement potentially encompasses two signaling axes: miR-23a-BMPR2 and miR-27a-TMEM170B in HCC cells. In conclusion, our CRISPRi/a study provides a valuable tool for comprehending the integrated roles and underlying mechanisms of endogenous miRNA clusters, paving the way for promising directions in miRNA-targeted therapy interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengying Cui
- Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Zhichao Liu
- Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Shuaibin Wang
- Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Sejong Bae
- Department of O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Hua Guo
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Jiangbing Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Runhua Liu
- Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
- Department of O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
| | - Lizhong Wang
- Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
- Department of O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
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2
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Jiang JK, Chen HS, Tang WF, Chen Y, Lin J. Rs3746444 T>C locus in miR-499 increases the susceptibility to hepatocellular carcinoma: A meta-analysis 14812 subjects. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2023; 15:171-185. [PMID: 36684045 PMCID: PMC9850759 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v15.i1.171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recently, many investigations have suggested that the rs3746444 T>C locus in the microRNA (miR)-499 gene may contribute to the occurrence of cancer. However, reports on the association between rs3746444 and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are conflicting.
AIM To further understand and explore the potential correlation between the single-nucleotide polymorphism of rs3746444 and the incidence of HCC.
METHODS In this meta-analysis, we obtained electronic literature by searching the PubMed, Embase and Chinese BioMedical Disc databases (through May 20, 2022). All eligible case-control, prospective cohort or nested case-control studies with sufficient data for calculating the odds ratios with their 95% confidence intervals were included.
RESULTS Ultimately, a total of 17 independent studies were included. We identified that rs3746444 was associated with the development of HCC (C vs T: P = 0.019 and CC/CT vs TT: P = 0.016). In Asian individuals, rs3746444 was associated with susceptibility to HCC (C vs T: P = 0.013 and CC/CT vs TT: P = 0.016). In addition, this study identified that the miR-499 rs3746444 locus was associated with susceptibility to HCC in the normal/healthy control subgroup (C vs T: P = 0.034 and CC/CT vs TT: P = 0.024).
CONCLUSION In summary, this meta-analysis highlights that rs3746444 in the miR-499 gene is involved in the occurrence of HCC, especially in Asian individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Kai Jiang
- Department of General Surgery, Changzhou No. 3 People’s Hospital, Changzhou 213000, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Han-Shen Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350000, Fujian Province, China
| | - Wei-Feng Tang
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210000, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou 350000, Fujian Province, China
- Cancer Bio-Immunotherapy Center, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou 350000, Fujian Province, China
- College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350000, Fujian Province, China
| | - Jing Lin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou 350000, Fujian Province, China
- Cancer Bio-Immunotherapy Center, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou 350000, Fujian Province, China
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3
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Deldar Abad Paskeh M, Mirzaei S, Ashrafizadeh M, Zarrabi A, Sethi G. Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling as a Driver of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression: An Emphasis on Molecular Pathways. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2021; 8:1415-1444. [PMID: 34858888 PMCID: PMC8630469 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s336858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahshid Deldar Abad Paskeh
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sepideh Mirzaei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Milad Ashrafizadeh
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, Tuzla, Istanbul, Turkey
- Sabanci University Nanotechnology Research and Application Center (SUNUM), Tuzla, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ali Zarrabi
- Sabanci University Nanotechnology Research and Application Center (SUNUM), Tuzla, Istanbul, Turkey
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istinye University, Sariyer, Istanbul, 34396, Turkey
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Cancer Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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4
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Fodor A, Lazar AL, Buchman C, Tiperciuc B, Orasan OH, Cozma A. MicroRNAs: The Link between the Metabolic Syndrome and Oncogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22126337. [PMID: 34199293 PMCID: PMC8231835 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) represents a cluster of disorders that increase the risk of a plethora of conditions, in particular type two diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain types of cancers. MetS is a complex entity characterized by a chronic inflammatory state that implies dysregulations of adipokins and proinflammatory cytokins together with hormonal and growth factors imbalances. Of great interest is the implication of microRNA (miRNA, miR), non-coding RNA, in cancer genesis, progression, and metastasis. The adipose tissue serves as an important source of miRs, which represent a novel class of adipokines, that play a crucial role in carcinogenesis. Altered miRs secretion in the adipose tissue, in the context of MetS, might explain their implication in the oncogenesis. The interplay between miRs expressed in adipose tissue, their dysregulation and cancer pathogenesis are still intriguing, taking into consideration the fact that miRNAs show both carcinogenic and tumor suppressor effects. The aim of our review was to discuss the latest publications concerning the implication of miRs dysregulation in MetS and their significance in tumoral signaling pathways. Furthermore, we emphasized the role of miRNAs as potential target therapies and their implication in cancer progression and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Fodor
- Department of Diabetes and Nutrtion, “Iuliu Haţieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Correspondence: (A.F.); (A.L.L.); (C.B.)
| | - Andrada Luciana Lazar
- Department of Dermatology, “Iuliu Haţieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Correspondence: (A.F.); (A.L.L.); (C.B.)
| | - Cristina Buchman
- Department of Oncology, “Iuliu Haţieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Correspondence: (A.F.); (A.L.L.); (C.B.)
| | - Brandusa Tiperciuc
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, “Iuliu Haţieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Olga Hilda Orasan
- Internal Medicine Department, 4th Medical Clinic “Iuliu Haţieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (O.H.O.); (A.C.)
| | - Angela Cozma
- Internal Medicine Department, 4th Medical Clinic “Iuliu Haţieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (O.H.O.); (A.C.)
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5
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Jing L, Hu B, Song QH. Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) inhibits palmitic acid (PA)-induced MC3T3-E1 cell apoptosis by regulating miR-200b-3p/ Chrdl1/PPARγ. Food Nutr Res 2020; 64:4208. [PMID: 33447177 PMCID: PMC7778426 DOI: 10.29219/fnr.v64.4208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Obesity is closely related to osteoporosis. Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBPs) have anti-osteoporosis activity. Objective This study aimed to explore the role of LBPs in palmitic acid (PA)-induced osteoblast apoptosis. Methods The microarray data set GSE37676 was downloaded from Gene Expression Ominibus (GEO) database. Top 300 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were used to construct a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network based on STRING database, and significant modules were analyzed and their key genes were screened by using Cytoscape software. COEXPEDIA database showed that there was co-expression between Chrdl1 and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPARγ). MC3T3-E1 cells were treated with 100–500 μg/mL of PA. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and western blot assays were used to detect mRNA and protein levels. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and flow cytometry were used to detect cell viability and cell apoptosis. Results Chrdl1 was the key gene from the most significant module and downregulation in MC3T3-E1 cells treated with PA. MicroRNA miR-200b-3p and PPARγ were significantly upregulated among PA-treated MC3T3-E1 cells. The results of luciferase reporter gene assay showed that miR-200b-3p targeted Chrdl1 3’-UTR. Over-expressing miR-200b-3p promoted PA-induced cell apoptosis and inhibited cell viability. After pre-treating cells with PA and LBP, MC3T3-E1 cell apoptosis rate was relatively lower than that of mimics+PA200 group. Chrdl1 inhibition partly reversed miR-200b-3p effect on inhibiting apoptosis among MC3T3-E1 cells pre-treated with LBP and PA. Decreased C CASP3, PPARγ and increased Chrdl1 by miR-200b-3p inhibition were partly reversed by Chrdl1 inhibition. Conclusions LBPs inhibit PA-induced MC3T3-E1 cell apoptosis by mainly decreasing miR-200b-3p to upregulate Chrdl1, but miR-200b-3p/Chrdl1/PPARγ is not the only mechanism for LBPs protecting osteoblasts from PA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Jing
- Orthopedics Department, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo City, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Baiwen Hu
- Orthopedics Department, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo City, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Qing Hua Song
- Plastic Surgery Center and Trauma Center, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo City, China
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6
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Resaz R, Cangelosi D, Morini M, Segalerba D, Mastracci L, Grillo F, Bosco MC, Bottino C, Colombo I, Eva A. Circulating exosomal microRNAs as potential biomarkers of hepatic injury and inflammation in a murine model of glycogen storage disease type 1a. Dis Model Mech 2020; 13:dmm.043364. [PMID: 32620541 PMCID: PMC7520457 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.043364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Most patients affected by glycogen storage disease type 1a (GSD1a), an inherited metabolic disorder caused by mutations in the enzyme glucose-6-phosphatase-α (G6Pase-α), develop renal and liver complications, including the development of hepatocellular adenoma/carcinoma. The purpose of this study was to identify potential biomarkers of the pathophysiology of the GSD1a-affected liver. To this end, we used the plasma exosomes of a murine model of GSD1a, the LS-G6pc -/ - mouse, to uncover the modulation in microRNA expression associated with the disease. The microRNAs differentially expressed between LS-G6pc -/- and wild-type mice, LS-G6pc -/- mice with hepatocellular adenoma and LS-G6pc -/- mice without adenoma, and LS-G6pc -/- mice with amyloidosis and LS-G6pc -/- mice without amyloidosis were identified. Pathway analysis demonstrated that the target genes of the differentially expressed microRNA were significantly enriched for the insulin signaling pathway, glucose and lipid metabolism, Wnt/β-catenin, telomere maintenance and hepatocellular carcinoma, and chemokine and immune regulation signaling pathways. Although some microRNAs were common to the different pathologic conditions, others were unique to the cancerous or inflammatory status of the animals. Therefore, the altered expression of several microRNAs is correlated with various pathologic liver states and might help to distinguish them during the progression of the disease and the development of late GSD1a-associated complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Resaz
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Via G. Gaslini 5, 16147 Genova, Italy
| | - Davide Cangelosi
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Via G. Gaslini 5, 16147 Genova, Italy
| | - Martina Morini
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Via G. Gaslini 5, 16147 Genova, Italy
| | - Daniela Segalerba
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Via G. Gaslini 5, 16147 Genova, Italy
| | - Luca Mastracci
- Department of Surgical and Diagnostic Sciences (DISC), Anatomic Pathology Unit, Università degli Studi di Genova, Viale Benedetto XV 6, 16132 Genova, Italy.,National Cancer Research Institute, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Federica Grillo
- Department of Surgical and Diagnostic Sciences (DISC), Anatomic Pathology Unit, Università degli Studi di Genova, Viale Benedetto XV 6, 16132 Genova, Italy.,National Cancer Research Institute, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Maria Carla Bosco
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Via G. Gaslini 5, 16147 Genova, Italy
| | - Cristina Bottino
- Department of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Università degli Studi di Genova, Via L. B. Alberti 2, 16132 Genova, Italy.,Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Via G. Gaslini 5, 16147 Genova, Italy
| | - Irma Colombo
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via D. Trentacoste 2, 20134 Milano, Italy
| | - Alessandra Eva
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Via G. Gaslini 5, 16147 Genova, Italy
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7
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Ait-Aissa K, Nguyen QM, Gabani M, Kassan A, Kumar S, Choi SK, Gonzalez AA, Khataei T, Sahyoun AM, Chen C, Kassan M. MicroRNAs and obesity-induced endothelial dysfunction: key paradigms in molecular therapy. Cardiovasc Diabetol 2020; 19:136. [PMID: 32907629 PMCID: PMC7488343 DOI: 10.1186/s12933-020-01107-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The endothelium plays a pivotal role in maintaining vascular health. Obesity is a global epidemic that has seen dramatic increases in both adult and pediatric populations. Obesity perturbs the integrity of normal endothelium, leading to endothelial dysfunction which predisposes the patient to cardiovascular diseases. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short, single-stranded, non-coding RNA molecules that play important roles in a variety of cellular processes such as differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis, and stress response; their alteration contributes to the development of many pathologies including obesity. Mediators of obesity-induced endothelial dysfunction include altered endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), oxidative stress, autophagy machinery and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. All of these factors have been shown to be either directly or indirectly caused by gene regulatory mechanisms of miRNAs. In this review, we aim to provide a comprehensive description of the therapeutic potential of miRNAs to treat obesity-induced endothelial dysfunction. This may lead to the identification of new targets for interventions that may prevent or delay the development of obesity-related cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karima Ait-Aissa
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, and Abboud Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA.
| | - Quynh My Nguyen
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, USA
| | - Mohanad Gabani
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, and Abboud Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Adam Kassan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, West Coast University, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Santosh Kumar
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, and Abboud Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Soo-Kyoung Choi
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Alexis A Gonzalez
- Instituto de Química, Pontificia, Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Tahsin Khataei
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, and Abboud Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Amal M Sahyoun
- Department of Food Science and Agriculture Chemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Cheng Chen
- Department of emergency and Critical Care, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Modar Kassan
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, and Abboud Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA.
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8
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Bai K, He S, Shu L, Wang W, Lin S, Zhang Q, Li L, Cheng L, Dai Y. Identification of cancer stem cell characteristics in liver hepatocellular carcinoma by WGCNA analysis of transcriptome stemness index. Cancer Med 2020; 9:4290-4298. [PMID: 32311840 PMCID: PMC7300398 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.3047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Revised: 03/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are characterized by self-renewal and -differential potential as compared to common cancer cells and play an important role in the development and therapeutic resistance of liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC). However, the specific pathogenesis of LIHC stem cells is still unclear, and the genes involved in the stemness of LIHC stem cells are currently unknown. In this study, we investigated novel biomarkers associated with LIHC and explored the expression characteristics of stem cell-related genes in LIHC. We found that mRNA expression-based stemness index (mRNAsi) was significantly overexpressed in liver cancer tissues. Further, mRNAsi expression in LIHC increased with the tumor pathological grade, with grade 4 tumors harboring the greatest stem cell features. Upon establishing mRNAsi scores based on mRNA expression of every gene, we found an association with poor overall survival in LIHC. Moreover, modules of interest were determined based on weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) inclusion criteria, and three significant modules (red, green, and brown) and 21 key genes (DCN, ECM1, HAND2, PTGIS, SFRP1, SRPX, COLEC10, GRP182, ADAMTS7, CD200, CDH11, COL8A1, FAP, LZTS1, MAP1B, NAV1, NOTCH3, OLFML2A, PRR16, TMEM119, and VCAN) were identified. Functional analysis of these 21 genes demonstrated their enrichment in pathways involved in angiogenesis, negative regulation of DNA-binding transcription factor activity, apoptosis, and autophagy. Causal relationship with proteins indicated that the Wnt, Notch, and Hypoxia pathways are closely related to LIHC tumorigenesis. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a novel CSC biomarker, mRNAsi, to predict the prognosis of LIHC. Further, we identified 21 key genes through mRNA expression network analysis, which could be potential therapeutic targets to inhibit the stemness of cancer cells in LIHC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun‐Hao Bai
- Department of EndoscopySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouChina
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaGuangzhouChina
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineGuangzhouChina
| | - Si‐Yuan He
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical SciencesHoustonTXUSA
| | - Ling‐Ling Shu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaGuangzhouChina
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineGuangzhouChina
- Department of Hematological OncologySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouChina
| | - Wei‐Da Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaGuangzhouChina
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineGuangzhouChina
- Department of Hematological OncologySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouChina
| | - Shi‐Yong Lin
- Department of EndoscopySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouChina
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaGuangzhouChina
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineGuangzhouChina
| | - Qian‐Yi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaGuangzhouChina
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineGuangzhouChina
- Department of Hematological OncologySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouChina
| | - Liang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaGuangzhouChina
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineGuangzhouChina
- Department of Hematological OncologySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouChina
| | - Lei Cheng
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineCancer InstituteFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghaiChina
| | - Yu‐Jun Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaGuangzhouChina
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineGuangzhouChina
- Department of Hematological OncologySun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouChina
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9
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Bioinformatic screening and experimental analysis identify SFRP1 as a prognostic biomarker for tongue squamous cell carcinomas. Arch Oral Biol 2019; 110:104587. [PMID: 31734541 DOI: 10.1016/j.archoralbio.2019.104587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To provide a prognostic biomarker and a potential therapeutic target for tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC). DESIGN Screening the prognostic genes of TSCC by bioinformatics, and verifying the correlation between the above genes and the prognosis of TSCC by experiments. RESULTS Twenty-four common differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between TSCC and the corresponding normal tissues were screened from four sets of TSCC functional gene expression series in Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets. Further bioinformatics research based on the data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) indicate that the low expression of SFRP1 might be correlated with poor prognosis of TSCC patients. By colony formation assay, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), western blotting, immunohistochemical staining, flowcytometry, lentivirus transfection and animal experiments, it was confirmed that the low level of SFRP1 expression correlated with poor prognosis of TSCC patients. CONCLUSION This study identified SFRP1 as a novel prognostic biomarker and a potential therapeutic target for TSCC.
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10
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Zhang J, Cao Z, Yang G, You L, Zhang T, Zhao Y. MicroRNA-27a (miR-27a) in Solid Tumors: A Review Based on Mechanisms and Clinical Observations. Front Oncol 2019; 9:893. [PMID: 31572683 PMCID: PMC6751266 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.00893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a family of highly conserved, non-coding single-stranded RNAs transcribed as ~70 nucleotide precursors to an 18–22 nucleotide product (1). miRNAs can silence their homologous target genes at the post-transcriptional level, and these genes have been revealed to play an important role in tumorigenesis, invasion and metastasis (2). MicroRNA-27a (miR-27a), transcripted by miR-27a gene, has proved to implicate with many kinds of solid tumors, showing potential as a useful biomarker or drug target for clinical application. However, even though miR-27a has been reported in many cancers, the mechanism and signal pathways of miR-27 in oncogenesis, invasion, and metastasis are still obscure. Moreover, recent studies show that miR-27a pays an important role in epithelial-mesenchymal-transition, regulating tumor immune response, and chemoresistance. In this review, we summarize the current literature, demonstrate the established link between miR-27a and tumorigenesis, and focus on recently identified mechanisms. The review also aims to demonstrate the potential of miR-27a as a diagnostic and/or prognostic biomarker in solid tumors and to discuss the possibilities of targeted therapy and drug design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingcheng Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zhe Cao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Gang Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Lei You
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Taiping Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Clinical Immunology Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yupei Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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