Knockdown of lncRNA TUG1 Enhances Radiosensitivity of Prostate Cancer via the TUG1/miR-139-5p/SMC1A Axis

Prostate cancer and the cell cycle: Focusing on the role of microRNAs

Prostate cancer is the most frequent solid tumor in terms of incidence and ranks second only to lung cancer in terms of cancer mortality among men. It has a considerably high mortality rate; around 375,000 deaths occurred worldwide in 2020. In 2024, the American Cancer Society estimated that the number of new prostate cancer cases will be around 299,010 cases, and the estimated deaths will be around 32,250 deaths only in the USA. Cell cycle dysregulation is inevitable in cancer etiology and is targeted by various therapies in cancer treatment. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, endogenous, non-coding regulatory molecules involved in both normal and abnormal cellular events. One of the cellular processes regulated by miRNAs is the cell cycle. Although there are some exceptions, tumor suppressor miRNAs could potentially arrest the cell cycle by downregulating several molecular machineries involved in catalyzing the cell cycle progression. In contrast, oncogenic miRNAs (oncomirs) help the cell cycle to progress by targeting various regulatory proteins such as retinoblastoma (Rb) or cell cycle inhibitors such as p21 or p27, and hence may contribute to prostate cancer progression; however, this is not always the case. In this review, we emphasize how a dysregulated miRNA expression profile is linked to an abnormal cell cycle progression in prostate cancer, which subsequently paves the way to a new therapeutic option for prostate cancer.

Exploring the enigma: history, present, and future of long non-coding RNAs in cancer

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), which are more than 200 nucleotides in length and do not encode proteins, play crucial roles in governing gene expression at both the transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels. These molecules demonstrate specific expression patterns in various tissues and developmental stages, suggesting their involvement in numerous developmental processes and diseases, notably cancer. Despite their widespread acknowledgment and the growing enthusiasm surrounding their potential as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, the precise mechanisms through which lncRNAs function remain inadequately understood. A few lncRNAs have been studied in depth, providing valuable insights into their biological activities and suggesting emerging functional themes and mechanistic models. However, the extent to which the mammalian genome is transcribed into functional noncoding transcripts is still a matter of debate. This review synthesizes our current understanding of lncRNA biogenesis, their genomic contexts, and their multifaceted roles in tumorigenesis, highlighting their potential in cancer-targeted therapy. By exploring historical perspectives alongside recent breakthroughs, we aim to illuminate the diverse roles of lncRNA and reflect on the broader implications of their study for understanding genome evolution and function, as well as for advancing clinical applications.

Unwinding circular RNA's role in inflammatory pulmonary diseases

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have emerged as pivotal regulators of gene expression and cellular processes in various physiological and pathological conditions. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in investigating the role of circRNAs in inflammatory lung diseases, owing to their potential to modulate inflammation-associated pathways and contribute to disease pathogenesis. Inflammatory lung diseases, like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and COVID-19, pose significant global health challenges. The dysregulation of inflammatory responses demonstrates a pivotal function in advancing these diseases. CircRNAs have been identified as important players in regulating inflammation by functioning as miRNA sponges, engaging with RNA-binding proteins, and participating in intricate ceRNA networks. These interactions enable circRNAs to regulate the manifestation of key inflammatory genes and signaling pathways. Furthermore, emerging evidence suggests that specific circRNAs are differentially expressed in response to inflammatory stimuli and exhibit distinct patterns in various lung diseases. Their involvement in immune cell activation, cytokine production, and tissue remodeling processes underscores their possible capabilities as therapeutic targets and diagnostic biomarkers. Harnessing the knowledge of circRNA-mediated regulation in inflammatory lung diseases could lead to the development of innovative strategies for disease management and intervention. This review summarizes the current understanding of the role of circRNAs in inflammatory lung diseases, focusing on their regulatory mechanisms and functional implications.

Abnormal methylation mediated upregulation of LINC00857 boosts malignant progression of lung adenocarcinoma by modulating the miR-486-5p/NEK2 axis

LINC00857 is frequently dysregulated in varying cancers, which in turn exerts carcinogenic effects; however, its DNA methylation status in promoter region and molecular mechanisms underlying the progression of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remain rarely understood. Through bioinformatics analysis, we examined the expression state and methylation site of LINC00857 in LUAD and further investigated the properties of LINC00857 as a competitive endogenous RNA in the cancer progression. The current study revealed that the overexpression of LINC00857 in LUAD tissue and cells was mainly caused by the hypomethylation of the promoter region. LINC00857 knockdown prominently reduced cell proliferation, impeded cell migration and invasion, and restrained lymph node metastasis, with enhancing radiosensitivity. The effects of LINC00857 on tumor growth were also investigated in nude mice models. Subsequently, the downstream factors, miR-486-5p and NEK2, were screened, and the putative regulatory axis was examined. Overall, the regulatory effect of methylation-mediated LINC00857 overexpression on miR-486-5p/NEK2 axis may be a new mechanism for LUAD progression.

Updated review on analysis of long non-coding RNAs as emerging diagnostic and therapeutic targets in prostate cancers

Despite advancements, prostate cancers (PCa) pose a significant global health challenge due to delayed diagnosis and therapeutic resistance. This review delves into the complex landscape of prostate cancer, with a focus on long-noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs). Also explores the influence of aberrant lncRNAs expression in progressive PCa stages, impacting traits like proliferation, invasion, metastasis and therapeutic resistance. The study elucidates how lncRNAs modulate crucial molecular effectors, including transcription factors and microRNAs, affecting signaling pathways such as androgen receptor signaling. Besides, this manuscript sheds light on novel concepts and mechanisms driving PCa progression through lncRNAs, providing a critical analysis of their impact on the disease's diverse characteristics. Besides, it discusses the potential of lncRNAs as diagnostics and therapeutic targets in PCa. Collectively, this work highlights state of art mechanistic comprehension and rigorous scientific approaches to advance our understanding of PCa and depict innovations in this evolving field of research.

Overcoming chemoresistance and radio resistance in prostate cancer: The emergent role of non-coding RNAs

Prostate cancer (PCa) continues to be a major health concern worldwide, with its resistance to chemotherapy and radiation therapy presenting major hurdles in successful treatment. While patients with localized prostate cancer generally have a good survival rate, those with metastatic prostate cancer often face a grim prognosis, even with aggressive treatments using various methods. The high mortality rate in severe cases is largely due to the lack of treatment options that can offer lasting results, especially considering the significant genetic diversity found in tumors at the genomic level. This comprehensive review examines the intricate molecular mechanisms governing resistance in PCa, emphasising the pivotal contributions of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). We delve into the diverse roles of microRNAs, long ncRNAs, and other non-coding elements as critical regulators of key cellular processes involved in CR & RR. The review emphasizes the diagnostic potential of ncRNAs as predictive biomarkers for treatment response, offering insights into patient stratification and personalized therapeutic approaches. Additionally, we explore the therapeutic implications of targeting ncRNAs to overcome CR & RR, highlighting innovative strategies to restore treatment sensitivity. By synthesizing current knowledge, this review not only provides a comprehension of the chemical basis of resistance in PCa but also identifies gaps in knowledge, paving the way for future research directions. Ultimately, this exploration of ncRNA perspectives offers a roadmap for advancing precision medicine in PCa, potentially transforming therapeutic paradigms and improving outcomes for patients facing the challenges of treatment resistance.

The emerging role of non-coding RNAs in the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer (PCa) is an important worldwide medical concern, necessitating a greater understanding of the molecular processes driving its development. The Wnt/-catenin signaling cascade is established as a central player in PCa pathogenesis, and recent research emphasizes the critical involvement of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in this scenario. This in-depth study seeks to give a thorough examination of the complex relationship between ncRNAs and the Wnt/β-catenin system in PCa. NcRNAs, such as circular RNAs (circRNAs), long ncRNAs (lncRNAs), and microRNAs (miRNAs), have been recognized as essential regulators that modulate numerous facets of the Wnt/β-catenin network. MiRNAs have been recognized as targeting vital elements of the process, either enhancing or inhibiting signaling, depending on their specific roles and targets. LncRNAs participate in fine-tuning the Wnt/β-catenin network as a result of complicated interplay with both upstream and downstream elements. CircRNAs, despite being a relatively recent addition to the ncRNA family, have been implicated in PCa, influencing the Wnt/β-catenin cascade through diverse mechanisms. This article encompasses recent advances in our comprehension of specific ncRNAs that participate in the Wnt/β-catenin network, their functional roles, and clinical relevance in PCa. We investigate their use as screening and predictive indicators, and targets for treatment. Additionally, we delve into the interplay between Wnt/β-catenin and other signaling networks in PCa and the role of ncRNAs within this complex network. As we unveil the intricate regulatory functions of ncRNAs in the Wnt/β-catenin cascade in PCa, we gain valuable insights into the disease's pathogenesis. The implementation of these discoveries in practical applications holds promise for more precise diagnosis, prognosis, and targeted therapeutic approaches, ultimately enhancing the care of PCa patients. This comprehensive review underscores the evolving landscape of ncRNA research in PCa and the potential for innovative interventions in the battle against this formidable malignancy.

LncRNA FAM83H-AS1 Contributes to the Radio-resistance and Proliferation in Liver Cancer through Stability FAM83H Protein

BACKGROUND

Liver cancer (LC) is one of China's most common malignant tumors, with a high mortality rate, ranking third leading cause of death after gastric and esophageal cancer. Recent patents propose the LncRNA FAM83H-AS1 has been verified to perform a crucial role in the progression of LC. LncRNA FAM83H-AS1 has been verified to perform a crucial role in the progression of LC. However, the concrete mechanism remains to be pending further investigation.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore the embedding mechanism of FAM83H-AS1 molecules in terms of radio sensitivity of LC and provide potentially effective therapeutic targets for LC therapy.

METHODS

Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was conducted to measure the transcription levels of genes. Proliferation was determined via CCK8 and colony formation assays. Western blot was carried out to detect the relative protein expression. A xenograft mouse model was constructed to investigate the effect of LncRNA FAM83H-AS1 on tumor growth and radio-sensitivity in vivo.

RESULTS

The levels of lncRNA FAM83H-AS1 were remarkably increased in LC. Knockdown of FAM83H-AS1 inhibited LC cell proliferation and colony survival fraction. Deletion of FAM83H-AS1 increased the sensitivity of LC cells to 4 Gy of X-ray radiation. In the xenograft model, radiotherapy combined with FAM83H-AS1 silencing significantly reduced tumor volume and weight. Overexpression of FAM83H reversed the effects of FAM83H-AS1 deletion on proliferation and colony survival fraction in LC cells. Moreover, the over-expressing of FAM83H also restored the tumor volume and weight reduction caused by the knockdown of FAM83H-AS1 or radiation in the xenograft model.

CONCLUSION

Knockdown of lncRNA FAM83H-AS1 inhibited LC growth and enhanced radiosensitivity in LC. It has the potential to be a promising target for LC therapy.

Moving the Needle Forward in Genomically-Guided Precision Radiation Treatment

Radiation treatment (RT) is a mainstay treatment for many types of cancer. Recommendations for RT and the radiation plan are individualized to each patient, taking into consideration the patient's tumor pathology, staging, anatomy, and other clinical characteristics. Information on germline mutations and somatic tumor mutations is at present rarely used to guide specific clinical decisions in RT. Many genes, such as ATM, and BRCA1/2, have been identified in the laboratory to confer radiation sensitivity. However, our understanding of the clinical significance of mutations in these genes remains limited and, as individual mutations in such genes can be rare, their impact on tumor response and toxicity remains unclear. Current guidelines, including those from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), provide limited guidance on how genetic results should be integrated into RT recommendations. With an increasing understanding of the molecular underpinning of radiation response, genomically-guided RT can inform decisions surrounding RT dose, volume, concurrent therapies, and even omission to further improve oncologic outcomes and reduce risks of toxicities. Here, we review existing evidence from laboratory, pre-clinical, and clinical studies with regard to how genetic alterations may affect radiosensitivity. We also summarize recent data from clinical trials and explore potential future directions to utilize genetic data to support clinical decision-making in developing a pathway toward personalized RT.

Unlocking the role of non-coding RNAs in prostate cancer progression: exploring the interplay with the Wnt signaling pathway

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common cancers in males, exhibiting a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations that pose challenges in its diagnosis and treatment. The Wnt signaling pathway, a conserved and complex pathway, is crucial for embryonic development, tissue homeostasis, and various physiological processes. Apart from the classical Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, there exist multiple non-classical Wnt signaling pathways, including the Wnt/PCP and Wnt/Ca2+ pathways. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are involved in the occurrence and development of PCa and the response to PCa treatment. ncRNAs are known to execute diverse regulatory roles in cellular processes, despite their inability to encode proteins. Among them, microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs play key roles in the regulation of the Wnt signaling pathway in PCa. Aberrant expression of these ncRNAs and dysregulation of the Wnt signaling pathway are one of the causes of cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, migration, and angiogenesis in PCa. Moreover, these ncRNAs affect the characteristics of PCa cells and hold promise as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. Herein, we summarize the role of ncRNAs in the regulation of the Wnt signaling pathway during the development of PCa. Additionally, we present an overview of the current progress in research on the correlation between these molecules and clinical features of the disease to provide novel insights and strategies for the treatment of PCa.

SMC1A facilitates gastric cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion via promoting SNAIL activated EMT

BACKGROUND

Structural maintenance of chromosomes protein 1 A (SMC1A) is a crucial subunit of the cohesion protein complex and plays a vital role in cell cycle regulation, genomic stability maintenance, chromosome dynamics. Recent studies demonstrated that SMC1A participates in tumorigenesis. This reseach aims to explore the role and the underlying mechanisms of SMC1A in gastric cancer (GC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

RT-qPCR and western blot were used to examine the expression levels of SMC1A in GC tissues and cell lines. The role of SMC1A on GC cell proliferation, migration, invasion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) were analyzed. Furthermore,the mechanism of SMC1A action was investigated.

RESULTS

SMC1A was highly expressed in GC tissues and cell lines. The high expression of SMC1A indicated the poor overall survival of GC patients from Kaplan-Meier Plotter. Enhancing the expression of SMC1A in AGS cells remarkably promoted cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo, migration and invasion, Conversely, knockdown of SMC1A in HGC27 cells inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Moreover, it's observed that SMC1A promoted EMT and malignant cell behaviors via regulating SNAIL.

CONCLUSION

Our study revealed that SMC1A promotes EMT process by upregulating SNAIL, which contributes to gastric cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Therefore, targeting SMC1A may be a potential strategy to improve GC therapy.

A thorough understanding of the role of lncRNA in prostate cancer pathogenesis; Current knowledge and future research directions

In the entire world, prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common and deadly cancers. Treatment failure is still common among patients, despite PCa diagnosis and treatment improvements. Inadequate early diagnostic markers and the emergence of resistance to conventional therapeutic approaches, particularly androgen-deprivation therapy, are the causes of this. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), as an essential group of regulatory molecules, have been reported to be dysregulated through prostate tumorigenesis and hold great promise as diagnostic targets. Besides, lncRNAs regulate the malignant features of PCa cells, such as proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and drug resistance. These multifunctional RNA molecules interact with other molecular effectors like miRNAs and transcription factors to modulate various signaling pathways, including AR signaling. This study aimed to compile new knowledge regarding the role of lncRNA through prostate tumorigenesis in terms of their effects on the various malignant characteristics of PCa cells; in light of these characteristics and the significant potential of lncRNAs as diagnostic and therapeutic targets for PCa. AVAILABILITY OF DATA AND MATERIALS: Not applicable.

FTO-stabilized miR-139-5p targets ZNF217 to suppress prostate cancer cell malignancies by inactivating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signal pathway

As one of the most important demethylases for RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modifications, fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) plays anti-cancer role during prostate cancer (PC), but it is still unclear the detailed molecular mechanisms. Here, this study verified that FTO inactivated the tumor-accelerating PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway to hamper PC development through regulating the downstream miR-139-5p/zinc finger protein 217 (ZNF217) axis. Through performing clinical analysis, it was revealed that FTO was apparently ablated in the cancerous tissues compared to the normal tissues collected from PC patients, and patients with high-expressed FTO predicted a favorable prognosis. Functional experiments confirmed that overexpression of FTO suppressed cell proliferation, mitosis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), tumorigenesis and lung metastasis both in vitro and in vivo. The following mechanical experiments verified that FTO stabilized miR-139-5p to increase its expression levels in a m6A-dependent manner, and elevated miR-139-5p induced degradation of ZNF217 through binding to ZNF217 mRNA, resulting in the inactivation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signal pathway. Finally, our rescuing experiments confirmed that overexpressed FTO-induced tumor-suppressing effects on PC cells were abrogated by miR-139-5p ablation and ZNF217 overexpression. Collectively, this study firstly validated that FTO exerted its anti-tumor effects in PC through regulating the miR-139-5p/ZNF217 axis in a m6A-dependent manner, providing novel biomarkers for the advancement of anti-cancer agents for PC 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.

Oncogenic Long Noncoding RNAs in Prostate Cancer, Osteosarcoma, and Metastasis

Prostate cancer (PC) is a common malignancy and is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death in men worldwide. Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common bone cancer, representing 20-40% of all bone malignancy cases. Cancer metastasis is a process by which malignant tumor cells detach from the primary tumor site via a cascade of processes and migrate to secondary sites through the blood circulation or lymphatic system to colonize and form secondary tumors. PC has a specific affinity to the bone based on the "seed and soil" theory; once PC reach the bone, it becomes incurable. Several studies have identified long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) as potential targets for cancer therapy or as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. The dysregulation of various lncRNAs has been found in various cancer types, including PC, OS, and metastasis. However, the mechanisms underlying lncRNA oncogenic activity in tumor progression and metastasis are extremely complex and remain incompletely understood. Therefore, understanding oncogenic lncRNAs and their role in OS, PC, and metastasis and the underlying mechanism may help better manage and treat this malignancy. The aim of this review is to summarize current knowledge of oncogenic lncRNAs and their involvement in PC, OS, and bone metastasis.

Prognostic Significance of Amino Acid Metabolism-Related Genes in Prostate Cancer Retrieved by Machine Learning

Prostate cancer is among the leading cancers according to both incidence and mortality. Due to the high molecular, morphological and clinical heterogeneity, the course of prostate cancer ranges from slow growth that usually does not require immediate therapeutic intervention to aggressive and fatal disease that spreads quickly. However, currently available biomarkers cannot precisely predict the course of a disease, and novel strategies are needed to guide prostate cancer management. Amino acids serve numerous roles in cancers, among which are energy production, building block reservoirs, maintenance of redox homeostasis, epigenetic regulation, immune system modulation and resistance to therapy. In this article, by using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data, we found that the expression of amino acid metabolism-related genes is highly aberrant in prostate cancer, which holds potential to be exploited in biomarker design or in treatment strategies. This change in expression is especially evident for catabolism genes and transporters from the solute carrier family. Furthermore, by using recursive partitioning, we confirmed that the Gleason score is strongly prognostic for progression-free survival. However, the expression of the genes SERINC3 (phosphatidylserine and sphingolipids generation) and CSAD (hypotaurine generation) can refine prognosis for high and low Gleason scores, respectively. Therefore, our results hold potential for novel prostate cancer progression biomarkers.

Insights into the radiotherapy-induced deferentially expressed RNAs in colorectal cancer management

Radiotherapy (RT) has been commonly applied to treat advanced local cancers. In radiation therapy, high doses of radiation are utilized to trigger cell death. Radiation often leads to DNA double-strand breakages (DSB), which causes the activation of downstream genes including those for non-coding RNAs (ncRNA) such as long non-coding and RNAsmicro RNAs. The consequence of RT significantly relies on the radiosensitivity of cancer cells, which is affected by multiple factors, including some proteins and cellular processes. Activation of these genes can cause cell cytotoxicity and indirectly damages the cells. Recent studies have shown that non-coding RNAs can play as radiosensitivity or radioinhibitory regulators in cancers by mechanisms such as cell cycle arrest or affecting the DNA damage repair systems. ncRNAs are also known to function as tumor suppressor genes or oncogenes in colorectal cancer and therefore are considered potential diagnostic biomarkers in disease detection. For example, the investigations have shown that miR-29a and miR-224 can be informative biomarkers for early detection or screening of CRC via a noninvasive method such as liquid biopsy. Here, we discuss ncRNAs involved in the radioresistance and radiosensitivity of CRC and highlight their predictive clinical value in response to RT. Accordingly, this review represents a principal guide in the context of three major types of ncRNAs with potential roles in the pathway of radiosensitivity and radioresistance, including miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs which can be considered a precious archivement in organizing additional studies and broadening views in this area. Our findings can also assist radiotherapists in predicting CRC patients' response and, therefore, prognosis to radiation therapy, although, to achieve our goals in the clinic, we certainly need further studies.

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.

Identification and validation of a seven m6A-related lncRNAs signature predicting prognosis of ovarian cancer

Background

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play an important role in angiogenesis, immune response, inflammatory response and tumor development and metastasis. m6 A (N6—methyladenosine) is one of the most common RNA modifications in eukaryotes. The aim of our research was to investigate the potential prognostic value of m6A-related lncRNAs in ovarian cancer (OC).

Methods

The data we need for our research was downloaded from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Pearson correlation analysis between 21 m6A regulators and lncRNAs was performed to identify m6A-related lncRNAs. Univariate Cox regression analysis was implemented to screen for lncRNAs with prognostic value. A least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression and multivariate Cox regression analyses was used to further reduct the lncRNAs with prognostic value and construct a m6A-related lncRNAs signature for predicting the prognosis of OC patients.

Results

Two hundred seventy-five m6A-related lncRNAs were obtained using pearson correlation analysis. 29 m6A-related lncRNAs with prognostic value was selected through univariate Cox regression analysis. Then, a seven m6A-related lncRNAs signature was identified by LASSO Cox regression. Each patient obtained a riskscore through multivariate Cox regression analyses and the patients were classified into high-and low-risk group using the median riskscore as a cutoff. Kaplan–Meier curve revealed that the patients in high-risk group have poor outcome. The receiver operating characteristic curve revealed that the predictive potential of the m6A-related lncRNAs signature for OC was powerful. The predictive potential of the m6A-related lncRNAs signature was successfully validated in the GSE9891, GSE26193 datasets and our clinical specimens. Multivariate analyses suggested that the m6A-related lncRNAs signature was an independent prognostic factor for OC patients. Moreover, a nomogram based on the expression level of the seven m6A-related lncRNAs was established to predict survival rate of patients with OC. Finally, a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network associated with the seven m6A-related lncRNAs was constructed to understand the possible mechanisms of the m6A-related lncRNAs involed in the progression of OC.

Conclusions

In conclusion, our research revealed that the m6A-related lncRNAs may affect the prognosis of OC patients and identified a seven m6A-related lncRNAs signature to predict the prognosis of OC patients.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-022-09591-4.

Non-coding RNAs associated with autophagy and their regulatory role in cancer therapeutics

Cancer widely affects the world's health population and ranks second leading cause of death globally. Because of poor prognosis of various types of cancer such as sarcoma, lymphoma, adenomas etc., their high recurrence and metastasis rate and low early diagnosis rate have become concern lately. Role of autophagy in cancer progression is being studied since long. Autophagy is cell's self-degradative mechanism towards stress and has role in degradation of the cytoplasmic macromolecules which has potential to damage other cytosolic molecules. Autophagy can promote as well as inhibit tumorigenesis depending upon the associated protein combinations in cancer cells. Recent studies have shown that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) do not code for protein but play essential role in modulation of gene expression. At transcriptional level, different ncRNAs like lncRNAs, miRNAs and circRNAs directly or indirectly affect different stages of autophagy like autophagy-dependent and non-apoptotic cell death in cancer cells. This review focuses on the involvement of ncRNAs in autophagy and the modulation of several cancer signal transduction pathways in cancers such as lung, breast, prostate, pancreatic, thyroid, and kidney cancer.

The Mechanism of Long Non-coding RNA in Cancer Radioresistance/Radiosensitivity: A Systematic Review

Background and purpose: Radioresistance remains a significant challenge in tumor therapy. This systematic review aims to demonstrate the role of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) in cancer radioresistance/radiosensitivity.

Material and methods: The electronic databases Pubmed, Embase, and Google Scholar were searched from January 2000 to December 2021 to identify studies addressing the mechanisms of lncRNAs in tumor radioresistance/sensitivity, each of which required both in vivo and in vitro experiments.

Results: Among the 87 studies identified, lncRNAs were implicated in tumor radioresistance/sensitivity mainly in three paradigms. 1) lncRNAs act on microRNA (miRNA) by means of a sponge, and their downstream signals include some specific molecular biological processes (DNA repair and chromosome stabilization, mRNA or protein stabilization, cell cycle and proliferation, apoptosis-related pathways, autophagy-related pathways, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), cellular energy metabolism) and some signaling mediators (transcription factors, kinases, some important signal transduction pathways) that regulate various biological processes. 2) lncRNAs directly interact with proteins, affecting the cell cycle and autophagy to contribute to tumor radioresistance. 3) lncRNAs act like transcription factors to initiate downstream signaling pathways and participate in tumor radioresistance.

Conclusion: lncRNAs are important regulators involved in tumor radioresistance\sensitivity. Different lncRNAs may participate in the radioresistance with the same regulatory paradigm, and the same lncRNAs may also participate in the radioresistance in different ways. Future research should focus more on comprehensively characterizing the mechanisms of lncRNAs in tumor radioresistance to help us identify corresponding novel biomarkers and develop new lncRNA-based methods to improve radioresistance.

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.

Stress Responses as Master Keys to Epigenomic Changes in Transcriptome and Metabolome for Cancer Etiology and Therapeutics

From initiation through progression, cancer cells are subjected to a magnitude of endogenous and exogenous stresses, which aid in their neoplastic transformation. Exposure to these classes of stress induces imbalance in cellular homeostasis and, in response, cancer cells employ informative adaptive mechanisms to rebalance biochemical processes that facilitate survival and maintain their existence. Different kinds of stress stimuli trigger epigenetic alterations in cancer cells, which leads to changes in their transcriptome and metabolome, ultimately resulting in suppression of growth inhibition or induction of apoptosis. Whether cancer cells show a protective response to stress or succumb to cell death depends on the type of stress and duration of exposure. A thorough understanding of epigenetic and molecular architecture of cancer cell stress response pathways can unveil a plethora of information required to develop novel anticancer therapeutics. The present view highlights current knowledge about alterations in epigenome and transcriptome of cancer cells as a consequence of exposure to different physicochemical stressful stimuli such as reactive oxygen species (ROS), hypoxia, radiation, hyperthermia, genotoxic agents, and nutrient deprivation. Currently, an anticancer treatment scenario involving the imposition of stress to target cancer cells is gaining traction to augment or even replace conventional therapeutic regimens. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of stress response pathways is crucial for devising and implementing novel therapeutic strategies.

The Cohesin Complex and Its Interplay with Non-Coding RNAs

The cohesin complex is a multi-subunit protein complex initially discovered for its role in sister chromatid cohesion. However, cohesin also has several other functions and plays important roles in transcriptional regulation, DNA double strand break repair, and chromosome architecture thereby influencing gene expression and development in organisms from yeast to man. While most of these functions rely on protein–protein interactions, post-translational protein, as well as DNA modifications, non-coding RNAs are emerging as additional players that facilitate and modulate the function or expression of cohesin and its individual components. This review provides a condensed overview about the architecture as well as the function of the cohesin complex and highlights its multifaceted interplay with both short and long non-coding RNAs.

MicroRNA-139-5p improves sepsis-induced lung injury by targeting Rho-kinase1

Sepsis-induced acute lung injury (ALI) is an inflammatory process that involves inflammatory cytokine production and cell apoptosis. In the present study, the regulatory role of microRNA (miR)-139-5p in sepsis-induced ALI was investigated using a murine model of cecal ligation puncture (CLP) and an in vitro model using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced normal human bronchial epithelial cells (NHBEs). Sepsis-induced pathological changes in the lungs of ALI mice were detected using hematoxylin and eosin staining. Lung water content was determined, and the expression of proinflammatory cytokines in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and serum of sepsis-induced ALI mice were quantified using ELISA. The levels of oxidative stress in lung tissues were determined using commercial kits. The degree of apoptosis was determined using a TUNEL assay. The expression levels of miR-139-5p and Rho-kinase 1 (ROCK1) were determined using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and western blot analyses. A dual-luciferase reporter assay was used to confirm the direct targeting of ROCK1 by miR-139-5p. NHBEs were co-transfected with vectors expressing ROCK1 (or empty vector) and miR-139-5p mimics or control mimics prior to LPS treatment. The transcriptional activity of caspase-3, the ratio of apoptotic cells, the expression levels of mucin 5AC, mucin 1, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, NLR family pyrin domain containing 3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD and caspase-1 were evaluated. Compared with the normal group, mice that underwent CLP exhibited abnormal lung morphology, enhanced production of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6, increased reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde and lactate dehydrogenase levels, an increased proportion of apoptotic cells and increased ROCK1 expression. Superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and miR-139-5p levels were decreased following CLP. In the NHBEs, stimulation with LPS caused a marked increase in inflammatory cytokine levels and apoptosis compared with the untreated cells. Overexpression of miR-139-5p attenuated cell apoptosis and inflammation. Overexpression of ROCK1 in NHBEs restored the ROS levels and proinflammatory cytokine production inhibited by miR-139-5p. In conclusion, miR-139-5p alleviated sepsis-induced ALI via suppression of its downstream target, ROCK1, suggesting that miR-139-5p may hold promise in the treatment of sepsis-induced ALI.

A Potential Immune-Related Long Non-coding RNA Prognostic Signature for Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer (OC), the most lethal gynecologic malignancy, ranks fifth in cancer deaths among women, largely because of late diagnosis. Recent studies suggest that the expression levels of immune-related long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a significant role in the prognosis of OC; however, the potential of immune-related lncRNAs as prognostic factors in OC remains unexplored. In this study, we aimed to identify a potential immune-related lncRNA prognostic signature for OC patients. We used RNA sequencing and clinical data from The Cancer Genome Atlas and the Gene Expression Omnibus database to identify immune-related lncRNAs that could serve as useful biomarkers for OC diagnosis and prognosis. Univariate Cox regression analysis was used to identify the immune-related lncRNAs with prognostic value. Functional annotation of the data was performed through the GenCLiP310 website. Seven differentially expressed lncRNAs (AC007406.4, AC008750.1, AL022341.2, AL133351.1, FAM74A7, LINC02229, and HOXB-AS2) were found to be independent prognostic factors for OC patients. The Kaplan-Meier curve indicated that patients in the high-risk group had a poorer survival outcome than those in the low-risk group. The receiver operating characteristic curve revealed that the predictive potential of the immune-related lncRNA signature for OC was robust. The prognostic signature of the seven lncRNAs was successfully validated in the GSE9891, GSE26193 datasets and our clinical specimens. Multivariate analyses suggested that the signature of the seven lncRNAs was an independent prognostic factor for OC patients. Finally, we constructed a nomogram model and a competing endogenous RNA network related to the lncRNA prognostic signature. In conclusion, our study reveals novel immune-related lncRNAs that may serve as independent prognostic factors in OC.

Long and short non-coding RNA and radiation response: a review

Once thought of as arising from "junk DNA," noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) have emerged as key molecules in cellular processes and response to stress. From diseases such as cancer, coronary artery disease, and diabetes to the effects of ionizing radiation (IR), ncRNAs play important roles in disease progression and as biomarkers of damage. Noncoding RNAs regulate cellular processes by competitively binding DNA, mRNA, proteins, and other ncRNAs. Through these interactions, specific ncRNAs can modulate the radiosensitivity of cells and serve as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers of radiation damage, whether from incidental exposure in radiotherapy or in accidental exposure scenarios. Analysis of RNA expression after radiation exposure has shown alterations not only in mRNAs, but also in ncRNAs (primarily miRNA, circRNA, and lncRNA), implying an important role in cellular stress response. Due to their abundance and stability in serum and other biofluids, ncRNAs also have great potential as minimally invasive biomarkers with advantages over current biodosimetry methods. Several studies have examined changes in ncRNA expression profiles in response to IR and other forms of oxidative stress. Furthermore, some studies have reported modulation of radiosensitivity by altering expression levels of these ncRNAs. This review discusses the roles of ncRNAs in the radiation response and evaluates prior research on ncRNAs as biomarkers of radiation damage. Future directions and applications of ncRNAs in radiation research are introduced, including the potential for a clinical ncRNA assay for assessing radiation damage and for the therapeutic use of RNA interference (RNAi).

Upregulation of LINC01503 promotes cervical cancer progression by targeting the miR-615-3p/CCND1 axis

Mounting evidence indicates that long non-coding RNAs influence the progression of cervical cancer, but the precise function of LINC01503 in the pathogenesis of the disease remains unknown. Here, we found higher levels of LINC01503 in cervical cancer tissues. High LINC01503 expression was associated with enhanced progression of cervical cancer as indicated by advanced FIGO stage, increased metastasis of tumor cells to lymph nodes, and invasion into deeper cervical tissues. LINC01503 inhibition markedly suppressed the invasion and proliferative ability of tumor cells. Mechanistically, LINC01503 was demonstrated to negatively modulate the expression of miR-615-3p in cervical cancer. CCND1 was found to be a target of miR-615-3p. Rescue experiments indicated that LINC01503 inhibition suppressed the invasion and proliferative ability of the tumor cells, a phenomenon that was reversed following miR-615-3p inhibition or CCND1 overexpression. Collectively, these data indicate that LINC01503 enhances the progression of cervical cancer cells via interaction with miR-615-3p/CCND1 axis.

Role of long noncoding RNA taurine-upregulated gene 1 in cancers

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a group of non-protein coding RNAs with a length of more than 200 bp. The lncRNA taurine up-regulated gene 1 (TUG1) is abnormally expressed in many human malignant cancers, where it acts as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA), regulating gene expression by specifically sponging its corresponding microRNAs. In the present review, we summarised the current understanding of the role of lncRNA TUG1 in cancer cell proliferation, metastasis, angiogenesis, chemotherapeutic drug resistance, radiosensitivity, cell regulation, and cell glycolysis, as well as highlighting its potential application as a clinical biomarker or therapeutic target for malignant cancer. This review provides the basis for new research directions for lncRNA TUG1 in cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

LncRNA Taurine Upregulated Gene 1 as a Potential Biomarker in the Clinicopathology and Prognosis of Multiple Malignant Tumors: A Meta-Analysis

Background

The lncRNA taurine upregulated gene 1 (TUG1) is a recently identified potential biomarker in cancer. However, its prognostic role in various cancers is inconsistent among published data. We conducted this meta-analysis to comprehensively confirm the prognostic effect of TUG1 in malignant tumors.

Methods

We systemically analyzed the prognostic-predictive capacity of TUG1 through amplifying sample sizes and cancer types. STATA 12.0 was applied for this meta-analysis.

Results

A total of 57 eligible studies were included in our meta-analysis. The pooled results suggested that overexpression of TUG1 was significantly correlated with unfavorable overall survival (OS) (HR = 1.70, p < 0.001), shorter recurrence-free survival (RFS) (HR = 2.40, p ≤ 0.001), and shorter event-free survival (EFS) (HR = 1.88, p < 0.001) in patients with cancer. In the subgroup analysis by cancer type, elevated TUG1 expression was associated with poorer survival in patients with gastrointestinal cancer, urinary tumors, gynecological tumors, hematological tumors, and osteosarcoma. However, high expression of TUG1 in respiratory tumors indicated a better prognosis. There was no correlation between high TUG1 expression and OS in patients with head and neck neoplasms or melanoma. Additionally, overexpression of TUG1 was found to be correlated with low-grade tumor differentiation, advanced tumor stage, positive lymphatic metastasis, and positive distant metastasis.

Conclusions

High TUG1 expression correlates with poor prognosis and advanced clinicopathological features, verifying the prognostic-predictive capacity of TUG1 in tumors, especially in gastrointestinal cancer, urinary tumors, gynecological tumors, hematological tumors, and osteosarcoma. Meanwhile, the prognostic role of TUG1 in respiratory tumor may be opposite to other tumors.

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.

The molecular mechanisms of the long noncoding RNA SBF2-AS1 in regulating the proliferation of oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma

The long noncoding RNASBF2-AS1 can promote the occurrence and development of many kinds of tumours, but its role in oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is unknown. We found that SBF2-AS1 was up-regulated in ESCC, and its expression was positively correlated with tumor size (P = 0.0001), but was not related to gender, age, TNM stage, histological grade, and lymphnode metastasis (P > 0.05). It was further found that the higher the expression of SBF2-AS1, the lower the survival rate. COX multivariate analysis showed that the expression of SBF2-AS1 was an independent prognostic factor. Functional experiments show that inhibition of SBF2-AS1 can inhibit the proliferation of ESCC through in vivo and in vitro, and overexpression of SBF2-AS1 can promote the proliferation of ESCC and inhibit its apoptosis. In mechanism, SBF2-AS1/miR-338-3P, miR-362-3P/E2F1 axis are involved in the regulation of ESCC growth. In general, SBF2-AS1 may be used as ceRNA to combine with miR-338-3P and miR-362-3P to up-regulate the expression ofE2F1, and ultimately play a role in promoting cancer. It may be used as a therapeutic target and a biomarker for prognosis.

Role of long non-coding RNAs on the regulation of Nrf2 in chronic diseases

Studies have identified dysregulated long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) in several diseases at transcriptional, translational, and post-translational levels. Although our mechanistic knowledge on the regulation of lncRNAs is still limited, one of the mechanisms of action attributed is binding and regulating transcription factors, thus controlling gene expression and protein function. One such transcription factor is nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), which plays a critical biological role in maintaining cellular homeostasis at multiple levels in physiological and pathophysiological conditions. The levels of Nrf2 were found to be down-regulated in many chronic diseases, signifying that Nrf2 can be a key therapeutic target. Few lncRNAs like lncRNA ROR, ENSMUST00000125413, lncRNA ODRUL, Nrf2-lncRNA have been associated with the Nrf2 signaling pathway in response to various stimuli, including stress. This review discusses the regulation of Nrf2 in different responses and the potential role of specific lncRNA in modulating its transcriptional activities. This review further helps to enhance our knowledge on the regulatory role of the critical antioxidant transcription factor, Nrf2.

LncRNA TUG1 contributes to the tumorigenesis of lung adenocarcinoma by regulating miR-138-5p-HIF1A axis

INTRODUCTION

Increasing evidence indicates that lncRNA TUG1 represents an oncogenic factor in cancer. But, the mechanisms by which lncRNA TUG1 contributes to lung adenocarcinoma (LAC) remain undocumented.

METHODS

The relationship between lncRNA TUG1/miR-138-5p expression and clinical outcomes in patients with LAC was indicated by qPCR, FISH, and TCGA cohort. Gain- or loss-of-function experiments and in vivo tumorigenesis were used to assess the role of lncRNA TUG1 in LAC. The interplay between TUG1 and miR-138-5p was validated by luciferase gene report and RIP assays. qPCR and Western blot analyses were used to investigate the effects of TUG1 on miR-138-5p/HIF1A axis in LAC cells.

RESULTS

We found that upregulation of TUG1 or downregulation of miR-138-5p was associated with lymph node or distant metastasis and indicated a poor survival in LAC. Reduced expression of TUG1 restrained the growth of LAC cells, while restored expression of TUG1 had the opposite effects. TUG1 was identified to negatively regulate miR-138-5p expression, and miR-138-5p reversed TUG1-induced cell proliferation by targeting HIF1A. Elevated expression of HIF1A predicted a poor survival in LAC.

CONCLUSION

Our findings demonstrate that lncRNA TUG1 promotes the growth of LAC by regulating miR-138-5p-HIF1A axis.

Emerging role of non-coding RNAs in response of cancer cells to radiotherapy

Radiotherapy is an effective method for treatment of a large proportion of human cancers. Yet, the efficacy of this method is precluded by the induction of radioresistance in tumor cells and the radiation-associated injury of normal cells surrounding the field of radiation. These restrictions necessitate the introduction of modalities for either radiosensitization of cancer cells or protection of normal cells against adverse effects of radiation. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have essential roles in the determination of radiosensitivity. Moreover, ncRNAs can modulate radiation-induced side effects in normal cells. Several microRNAs (miRNAs) such as miR-620, miR-21 and miR-96-5p confer radioresistance, while other miRNAs including miR-340/ 429 confer radiosensitivity. The expression levels of a number of miRNAs are associated with radiation-induced complications such as lung fibrosis or oral mucositis. The expression patterns of several long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) such as MALAT1, LINC00630, HOTAIR, UCA1 and TINCR are associated with response to radiotherapy. Taken together, lncRNAs and miRNAs contribute both in modulation of response of cancer cells to radiotherapy and in protection of normal cells from the associated side effects. The current review provides an overview of the roles of these transcripts in these aspects.

LncRNAs in cancer: Regulatory and therapeutic implications

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) comprise a class of RNAs that do not code for proteins but are critical in regulating diverse cellular processes and maintaining cell function. In doing so, they have, in recent years, added a potentially new and significant layer of biological regulation. These are more than 200 nucleotides in length and are implicated in a range of diseases and therefore have emerged as potential tools for possible therapeutic intervention. For a disease as complex as cancer, emerging technologies suggest the presence of mutations on genomic loci that do not encode proteins, but give rise to lncRNAs. Aberrant signatures of lncRNAs are now a consistent feature of almost all types of cancers and their associated complications. Analysis and characterisation of functional pathways that lncRNAs are involved with suggest that lncRNAs interact with the chromatin, the protein or with the RNA to demonstrate their cellular effects to modulate proliferation, migration, differentiation, apoptosis and cell death. This review summarizes the current knowledge of lncRNAs, their implications in diverse types of cancer and their possible therapeutic utility.

The associations of long non-coding RNA taurine upregulated gene 1 and microRNA-223 with general disease severity and mortality risk in sepsis patients

This study aimed to investigate the correlation of long non-coding RNA taurine upregulated gene 1 (lncRNA TUG1) with microRNA-223 (miR-223) as well as their associations with risk, severity, and mortality of sepsis.Totally122 sepsis patients and 122 healthy controls were enrolled. Plasma lncRNA TUG1 and miR-223 levels were detected by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction. General severity of sepsis was assessed within 24 hours after admission using acute pathologic and chronic health evaluation (APACHE) II score and sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score. Patients were intensively followed up until death or 28 days after enrollment to assess mortality.LncRNA TUG1 expression was decreased (P < .001) but miR-223 expression (P < .001) was elevated in sepsis patients. Additionally, a negative correlation of lncRNA TUG1 expression with miR-223 expression was observed in sepsis patients (P < .001). Moreover, in sepsis patients, lncRNA TUG1 expression was negatively correlated with respiratory infection, serum creatinine (Scr), white blood cell (WBC), C-reactive protein (CRP), APACHE II score, and SOFA score but positively correlated with albumin (all P < .05); miR-223 expression was negatively correlated with skin and soft tissue infection and albumin but positively correlated with Scr, WBC, CRP, APACHE II score, and SOFA score (all P < 0.05). As to mortality, lncRNA TUG1 expression was decreased (P = .001) but miR-223 was elevated (P < .001) in 28-day sepsis deaths compared with 28-day sepsis survivors.Our findings offer the potential of lncRNA TUG1 and miR-223 as biomarkers for progression and prognosis of sepsis.

Exosomal microRNA-139-5p from mesenchymal stem cells accelerates trophoblast cell invasion and migration by motivation of the ERK/MMP-2 pathway via downregulation of protein tyrosine phosphatase

AIM

Exosomes present essential roles for intercellular interaction via extracellular pathways during systemic dysfunctions, including preeclampsia (PE). Here, we assessed the specific mechanism of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC)-originated exosomes in PE.

METHODS

The effects of exosomes on trophoblasts were studied by EdU, wound healing, Transwell and TUNEL assays. By microarray analysis, we found that exosomes enhanced the microRNA-139-5p (miR-139-5p) in trophoblasts, and confirmed the target gene of miR-139-5p by bioinformatics prediction and dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. At the same time, ERK/MMP-2 pathway-related biomolecules were assessed through Western blot analysis. The pathway inhibitor was used for rescue experiments. Finally, the effect of exosomes on the pathology of PE rats was verified by in vivo experiments.

RESULTS

The exosomes originated from hucMSC fostered the trophoblast cell migration, invasion and proliferation and obstructed apoptosis. Moreover, miR-139-5p could be transmitted to trophoblasts through hucMSC-secreted exosomes. miR-139-5p targeted protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTEN), which regulated the ERK/MMP-2 pathway. Inhibition of the ERK/MMP-2 pathway significantly reduced the promoting effect of exosomes on trophoblasts. Treatment with exosomes significantly lowered blood pressure values and reduced 24-h proteinuria in PE rats.

CONCLUSION

hucMSC-originated exosomes overexpressing miR-139-5p activated the ERK/MMP-2 pathway via PTEN downregulation, thus accelerating trophoblast cell invasion and migration, and blocking apoptosis. These results demonstrated that hucMSC-derived exosomes overexpressing miR-139-5p might be an innovative direction for therapeutic approaches against PE.

Regulatory effects of noncoding RNAs on the interplay of oxidative stress and autophagy in cancer malignancy and therapy

Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) regulation of various diseases including cancer has been extensively studied. Reactive oxidative species (ROS) elevated by oxidative stress are associated with cancer progression and drug resistance, while autophagy serves as an ROS scavenger in cancer cells. However, the regulatory effects of ncRNAs on autophagy and ROS in various cancer cells remains complex. Here, we explore how currently investigated ncRNAs, mainly miRNAs and lncRNAs, are involved in ROS production through modulating antioxidant genes. The regulatory effects of miRNAs and lncRNAs on autophagy-related (ATG) proteins to control autophagy activity in cancer cells are discussed. Moreover, differential expression of ncRNAs in tumor and normal tissues of cancer patients are further analyzed using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. This review hypothesizes links between ATG genes- or antioxidant genes-modulated ncRNAs and ROS production, which might result in tumorigenesis, malignancy, and cancer recurrence. A better understanding of the regulation of ROS and autophagy by ncRNAs might advance the use of ncRNAs as diagnostic and prognostic markers as well as therapeutic targets in cancer therapy.