HOTAIR rs920778 polymorphism is associated with ovarian cancer susceptibility and poor prognosis in a Chinese population

Comprehensive investigation of long non-coding RNA HOTAIR polymorphisms and cancer risk: a current meta-analysis encompassing 96,458 participants

Cancer ranks as the second leading cause of mortality worldwide, prompting extensive investigations into factors contributing to its development. Among these factors, genetic variations, known as genotypic polymorphisms, have been identified as significant influencers in the susceptibility to various types of cancer. Recent research has focused on exploring the connection between polymorphisms in the Long Non-coding RNA HOTAIR and cancer risk. However, the results from these studies have been inconsistent, leading to ambiguity and controversy. To address this uncertainty, we conducted a systematic analysis by gathering relevant studies from PubMed, EMBASE, and Google Scholar. Specifically, we focused on three well-studied polymorphisms within the HOTAIR lncRNA (HOTAIR rs920778 C > T, HOTAIR rs1899663 G > T, HOTAIR rs4759314 A > G) and their association with cancer risk. Our meta-analysis included data from 48 case-control studies involving 42,321 cases and 54,137 controls. The results of our updated meta-analysis revealed a significant correlation between HOTAIR rs1899663 G > T and HOTAIR rs4759314 A > G polymorphisms and overall cancer risk, particularly in the homozygous and recessive genetic models. Subgroup analysis further revealed that these associations were notably pronounced in the Asian population but not observed in the Iranian population. Furthermore, our findings underscore the potential of HOTAIR polymorphisms as diagnostic markers for overall cancer risk, particularly in gynecological cancers, precisely, HOTAIR rs1899663 G > T polymorphism in breast cancer. In conclusion, our systematic analysis provides compelling evidence that Long Non-coding RNA HOTAIR polymorphisms are linked to cancer risk, particularly in certain populations and cancer types, suggesting their potential clinical relevance as diagnostic indicators.

Role of rs2366152 single-nucleotide variant located in the long noncoding RNA HOTAIR gene in the cervical cancer susceptibility in a Polish population

Previous studies have demonstrated an association of the NC_000012.12:g.53962605A > G, (rs2366152) single-nucleotide variant (SNV) situated in the long noncoding homeobox transcript antisense intergenic RNA (HOTAIR) gene with HPV16-related cervical cancer pathogenesis. However, little is known about the role of rs2366152 in cervical cancer progression and how oral birth control pills use, parity, menopausal status, and cigarette smoking influence the role of rs2366152 in cervical carcinogenesis. HRM analysis was used to determine the rs2366152 SNV prevalence in patients with cervical squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) (n = 470) and control group (n = 499) in a Polish Caucasian population. Logistic regression analyses were adjusted for age, using birth control pills, parity, menopausal status, and cigarette smoking. Our genetic studies revealed that the G/A vs. A/A (p = 0.031, p = 0.002) and G/A + G/G vs. A/A (p = 0.035, p = 0.003) genotypes of rs2366152 SNV were significantly related to the grade of differentiation G3 and tumor stage III, respectively. Moreover, cervical cancer risk increased among patients with rs2366152 SNV who smoked cigarettes and used birth control pills. We conclude that rs2366152 may promote the invasion and rapid growth of cervical SCC. Moreover, rs2366152 with cigarette smoking and using birth control pills can also be a risk factor for cervical cancerogenesis.

Association of HOTAIR, MIR155HG, TERC, miR-155, -196a2, and -146a Genes Polymorphisms with Papillary Thyroid Cancer Susceptibility and Prognosis

Polymorphisms in long non-coding RNA and microRNA genes may play a significant role in the susceptibility and progression of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). The current study investigates the polymorphisms HOTAIR rs920778, MIR155HG rs1893650, TERC rs10936599, miR-155 rs767649, miR-196a2 rs11614913 and miR-146a rs2910164 in 102 PTC patients and 106 age- and sex-matched controls of the Caucasian Serbian population, using real-time PCR. We observed differences in genotype distributions of the HOTAIR rs920778 (p = 0.016) and MIR155HG rs1893650 (p = 0.0002) polymorphisms between PTC patients and controls. HOTAIR rs920778 was associated with increased PTC susceptibility (adjusted OR = 1.497, p = 0.021), with the TT variant genotype increasing the risk compared to the CC genotype (OR = 2.466, p = 0.012) and C allele carriers (CC + CT) (OR = 1.585, p = 0.006). The HOTAIR rs920778 TT genotype was associated with lymph node metastasis (p = 0.022), tumor recurrence (p = 0.016), and progression-free survival (p = 0.010) compared to C allele carriers. Multivariate Cox regression revealed that ATA risk (HR = 14.210, p = 0.000004) and HOTAIR rs920778 (HR = 2.811, p = 0.010) emerged as independent prognostic factors in PTC. A novel polymorphism, MIR155HG rs1893650, was negatively correlated with susceptibility to PTC, with TC heterozygotes exerting a protective effect (OR = 0.268, p = 0.0001). These results suggest that the polymorphisms HOTAIR rs920778 and MIR155HG rs1893650 could be potential prognostic and risk biomarkers in papillary thyroid carcinomas.

Long noncoding RNA polymorphisms in gynecological cancers

Gynecological malignancies are one of the main causes of cancer-induced mortality. Despite remarkable recent therapeutic advances, current therapeutic options are not sufficient. Regarding the effect of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) on cell differentiation, proliferation and apoptosis, variations in their expression cause different anomalies, such as tumorigenesis. SNPs influence lncRNA function and expression. LncRNA polymorphisms can predict cancer risk and are effective for early diagnosis and customized therapy. In this literature review, we comprehensively investigate the effect of lncRNA polymorphisms on gynecological cancers. LncRNA-related variants are proposed to evaluate cancer incidence, early detection and management of personalized therapy. Nonetheless, more studies are required to validate the consistency of current findings in numerous samples and across various ethnic groups.

Associations between non-coding RNAs genetic polymorphisms with ovarian cancer risk: A systematic review and meta-analysis update with trial sequential analysis

BACKGROUND

This systemic review and meta-analysis seeks to systematically analyze and summarize the association between non-coding RNA polymorphisms and ovarian cancer risk.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Web of Science and CNKI for available articles on non-coding RNA polymorphisms in patients with ovarian cancer from inception to March 1, 2023. The quality of each study included in the meta-analysis was rated according to the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.Odds ratios (ORs) with their 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were used to assess associations. Chi-square Q-test combined with inconsistency index (I2) was used to test for heterogeneity among studies. Lastly, trial sequential analysis (TSA) software was used to verify the reliability of meta-analysis results, and in-silico miRNA expression were also performed. The meta-analysis was registered with PROSPERO (No. CRD42023422091).

RESULTS

A total of 17 case-control studies with 18 SNPs were selected, including 2 studies with H19 rs2107425 and HOTAIR rs4759314, and 5 studies with miR-146a rs2910164 and miR-196a rs11614913. Significant associations were found between H19 rs2107425, miR-146a rs2910164, and miR-196a rs11614913 and ovarian cancer risk. Three genetic models of H19 rs2107425 (CT vs TT (heterozygote model): OR = 1.36, 95% CI = 1.22-1.52, P < .00001; CC + CT vs TT (dominant model): OR = 1.12, 95% CI = 1.02-1.24, P = .02; and CC vs CT + TT (recessive model): OR = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.16-1.31, P < .00001), 2 genetic models of miR-146a rs2910164 (allele model: OR = 1.75, 95% CI = 1.05-2.91, P = .03; and heterozygote model: OR = 0.33, 95% CI = 0.11-0.98, P = .05), 3 genetic models of miR-196a rs11614913 (allele model: OR = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.59-0.82, P < .0001; dominant model: OR = 1.62, 95% CI = 1.18-2.24, P = .0001; and recessive model: OR = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.57-0.87, P = .03) were statistically linked to ovarian cancer risk. Subgroup analysis for miR-146a rs2910164 was performed according to ethnicity. No association was found in any genetic model. The outcomes of TSA also validated the findings of this meta-analysis.

CONCLUSION

This study summarizes that H19 rs2107425, miR-146a rs2910164, and miR-196a rs11614913 polymorphisms are significantly linked with the risk of ovarian cancer, and moreover, large-scale and well-designed studies are needed to validate our result.

Downregulated lncRNA HOTAIR ameliorates polycystic ovaries syndrome via IGF-1 mediated PI3K/Akt pathway

OBJECTIVE

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common disorder that leads to infertility in reproductive-aged females. HOTAIR is highly expressed in various gynecological diseases and is associated with a poor prognosis. We aimed to explore the role of HOTAIR in PCOS.

METHODS

First, PCOS rats were induced using dehydroepiandrosterone and then treated with si-HOTAIR. Next, HOTAIR mRNA expression and serum hormone levels were detected. HE staining was applied to observe estrus cycle, ovarian morphology and count the number of follicles. Apoptosis in the ovary was detected by TUNEL. Thereafter, ovarian granulosa cells (GCs) were isolated from PCOS rats, transfected with si-HOTAIR and treated with LY294002 (Akt inhibitor) or IGF-1. CCK-8 and flow cytometry assays were used to evaluate cell viability and apoptosis. IGF-1, apoptosis- and PI3K/Akt pathway-associated protein expressions in ovary and GCs were also detected.

RESULTS

In in vivo experiments, si-HOTAIR decreased serum T, E₂ and LH levels but increased FSH level, restored estrus cycle, ovarian morphology and inhibited apoptosis of ovary in PCOS rats. Meanwhile, in vitro assays showed that si-HOTAIR upregulated the viability but inhibited the apoptosis of PCOS GCs. Furthermore, both in vivo and in vitro assays revealed that si-HOTAIR increased Bcl-2 expression but suppressed Bax, Bad, IGF-1 expressions and PI3K, AKT phosphorylation. However, the aforementioned effects of si-HOTAIR in vitro were further enhanced by LY294002 and partially reversed by IGF-1.

CONCLUSIONS

HOTAIR knockdown improved PCOS, and the mechanism may relate to IGF-1-mediated PI3K/Akt pathway, indicating HOTAIR may be a novel therapeutic target for PCOS.

The association between single nucleotide polymorphisms and ovarian cancer risk: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The relationship between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and ovarian cancer (OC) risk remains controversial. This systematic review and network meta-analysis was aimed to determine the association between SNPs and OC risk.

METHODS

Several databases (PubMed, EMBASE, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang databases, China Science and Technology Journal Database, and China Biology Medicine disc) were searched to summarize the association between SNPs and OC published throughout April 2021. Direct meta-analysis was used to identify SNPs that could predict the incidence of OC. Ranking probability resulting from network meta-analysis and the Thakkinstian's algorithm was used to select the most appropriate gene model. The false positive report probability (FPRP) and Venice criteria were further tested for credible relationships. Subgroup analysis was also carried out to explore whether there are racial differences.

RESULTS

A total of 63 genes and 92 SNPs were included in our study after careful consideration. Fok1 rs2228570 is likely a dominant risk factor for the development of OC compared to other selected genes. The dominant gene model of Fok1 rs2228570 (pooled OR = 1.158, 95% CI: 1.068-1.256) was determined to be the most suitable model with a FPRP <0.2 and moderate credibility.

CONCLUSIONS

Fok1 rs2228570 is closely linked to OC risk, and the dominant gene model is likely the most appropriate model for estimating OC susceptibility.

Insight into RNA-based Therapies for Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the most common malignancies in women and is associated with poor outcomes. The treatment for OC is often associated with resistance to therapies and hence this has stimulated the search for alternative therapeutic approaches, including RNA-based therapeutics. However, this approach has some challenges that include RNA degradation. To solve this critical issue, some novel delivery systems have been proposed. In current years, there has been growing interest in the improvement of RNAbased therapeutics as a promising approach to target ovarian cancer and improve patient outcomes. This paper provides a practical insight into the use of RNA-based therapeutics in ovarian cancers, highlighting their potential benefits, challenges, and current research progress. RNA-based therapeutics offer a novel and targeted approach to treat ovarian cancer by exploiting the unique characteristics of RNA molecules. By targeting key oncogenes or genes responsible for drug resistance, siRNAs can effectively inhibit tumor growth and sensitize cancer cells to conventional therapies. Furthermore, messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines have emerged as a revolutionary tool in cancer immunotherapy. MRNA vaccines can be designed to encode tumor-specific antigens, stimulating the immune system to distinguish and eliminate ovarian cancer cells. A nano-based delivery platform improves the release of loaded RNAs to the target location and reduces the off-target effects. Additionally, off-target effects and immune responses triggered by RNA molecules necessitate careful design and optimization of these therapeutics. Several preclinical and clinical researches have shown promising results in the field of RNA-based therapeutics for ovarian cancer. In a preclinical study, siRNA-mediated silencing of the poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1) gene, involved in DNA repair, sensitized ovarian cancer cells to PARP inhibitors, leading to enhanced therapeutic efficacy. In clinical trials, mRNA-based vaccines targeting tumor-associated antigens have demonstrated safety and efficacy in stimulating immune responses in ovarian cancer patients. In aggregate, RNA-based therapeutics represent a promising avenue for the therapy of ovarian cancers. The ability to specifically target oncogenes or stimulate immune responses against tumor cells holds great potential for improving patient outcomes. However, further research is needed to address challenges related to delivery, permanence, and off-target effects. Clinical trials assessing the care and effectiveness of RNAbased therapeutics in larger patient cohorts are warranted. With continued advancements in the field, RNAbased therapeutics have the potential to develop the management of ovarian cancer and provide new hope for patients.

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs); roles in tumorigenesis and potentials as biomarkers in cancer diagnosis

New research has indicated that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play critical roles in a broad range of biological processes, including the pathogenesis of many complex human diseases, including cancer. The detailed regulation mechanisms of many lncRNAs in cancer initiation and progression have yet to be discovered, even though a few of lncRNAs' functions in cancer have been characterized. In the present study, we summarize recent advances in the mechanisms and functions of lncRNAs in cancer. We focused on the roles of newly-identified lncRNAs as oncogenes and tumor suppressors, as well as the potential pathways these molecules could play. The paper also discusses their potential uses as biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of cancer.

(In)Distinctive Role of Long Non-Coding RNAs in Common and Rare Ovarian Cancers

Rare ovarian cancers (ROCs) are OCs with an annual incidence of fewer than 6 cases per 100,000 women. They affect women of all ages, but due to their low incidence and the potential clinical inexperience in management, there can be a delay in diagnosis, leading to a poor prognosis. The underlying causes for these tumors are varied, but generally, the tumors arise due to alterations in gene/protein expression in cellular processes that regulate normal proliferation and its checkpoints. Dysregulation of the cellular processes that lead to cancer includes gene mutations, epimutations, non-coding RNA (ncRNA) regulation, posttranscriptional and posttranslational modifications. Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) are defined as transcribed RNA molecules, more than 200 nucleotides in length which are not translated into proteins. They regulate gene expression through several mechanisms and therefore add another level of complexity to the regulatory mechanisms affecting tumor development. Since few studies have been performed on ROCs, in this review we summarize the mechanisms of action of lncRNA in OC, with an emphasis on ROCs.

Non-Coding RNAs as Biomarkers of Tumor Progression and Metastatic Spread in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer

Simple Summary

Despite advances in cancer research in recent years, efficient predictive biomarkers of tumor progression and metastatic spread for ovarian cancer are still missing. Therefore, we critically address recent findings in the field of non-coding RNAs (microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs) and DNA methylation in ovarian cancer patients as promising novel biomarkers of ovarian cancer progression.

Abstract

Ovarian cancer is one of the most common causes of death among gynecological malignancies. Molecular changes occurring in the primary tumor lead to metastatic spread into the peritoneum and the formation of distant metastases. Identification of these changes helps to reveal the nature of metastases development and decipher early biomarkers of prognosis and disease progression. Comparing differences in gene expression profiles between primary tumors and metastases, together with disclosing their epigenetic regulation, provides interesting associations with progression and metastasizing. Regulatory elements from the non-coding RNA families such as microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs seem to participate in these processes and represent potential molecular biomarkers of patient prognosis. Progress in therapy individualization and its proper targeting also rely upon a better understanding of interactions among the above-listed factors. This review aims to summarize currently available findings of microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs linked with tumor progression and metastatic process in ovarian cancer. These biomolecules provide promising tools for monitoring the patient’s response to treatment, and further they serve as potential therapeutic targets of this deadly disease.

Genetic impacts on thermostability of onco-lncRNA HOTAIR during the development and progression of endometriosis

HOTAIR is a well-known long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) involved in various cellular signaling, whereas its functional impacts on endometriosis development are still largely unknown. To this end, six potential functional single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in HOTAIR, with minor allele frequencies more than 10% in Han population and altered net energy of RNA structures larger than 0.5 kcal/mol, were selected for genotyping study. The study included 207 endometriosis patients and 200 healthy women. Genetic substitutions at rs1838169 and rs17720428 were frequently found in endometriosis patients, and rs1838169 showed statistical significance (p = 0.0174). The G-G (rs1838169-rs17720428) haplotype showed the most significant association with endometriosis (p < 0.0001) with enhanced HOTAIR stability, and patients who harbor such haplotype tended to show higher CA125. Data mining further revealed higher mRNA HOTAIR levels in the endometria of patients with severe endometriosis which consistently showed reduced HOXD10 and HOXA5 levels. HOTAIR knockdown with specific shRNAs down-regulated cell proliferation and migration with the induction of HOXD10 and HOXA5 expression in human ovarian clear cancer cells. Our study therefore provided evidence to indicate a prominent role of HOTAIR in promoting endometriosis, which could be used as a potential target for clinical applications.

Contributions of HOTAIR polymorphisms to the susceptibility of cancer

OBJECTIVE

Hox transcript antisense intergenic RNA (HOTAIR), a lncRNA, functions as a critical regulator in cancer development. A plenty of case-control studies were conducted to assess the actual relationship of HOTAIR gene generic variants on cancer susceptibility, yet conflicting conclusions remain. Herein, we carried out this up-to-date meta-analysis to get a better understanding of such relationship by incorporating all eligible case-control studies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Six widely investigated polymorphisms were included in this meta-analysis: rs920778, rs4759314, rs7958904, rs874945, rs1899663, and rs12826786. We retrieved relevant studies from databases PubMed, EMBASE, Medline, CNKI and Wanfang update to June 2020. We applied odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to estimate the relationship strengths.

RESULTS

Our findings indicate that rs920778, rs4759314, rs874945, rs12826786 polymorphism significantly increased with susceptibility to overall cancer. However, rs7958904, rs1899663 under any five genetic models could not impact susceptibility to overall cancer. Furthermore, altered cancer risk was detected when the data were stratified by cancer type, ethnicity, the source of controls, and HWE in all the SNPs.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings of the meta-analysis suggest that HOTAIR polymorphisms may predispose to cancer susceptibility.

Contribution of long noncoding RNA HOTAIR variants to preeclampsia susceptibility in Iranian women

Objective: To investigate the possible association of lncRNA HOTAIR rs920778 and rs874945 polymorphisms with preeclampsia risk in a sample from the Iranian population. Method: The study subjects included 250 preeclamptic women and 250 healthy women. The genotyping for rs920778 and rs874945 polymorphisms were performed using the TP-ARMS-PCR method. Results: HOTAIR rs920778 increased the risk of preeclampsia under the dominant and recessive inheritance patterns (OR = 4.84, 95% CI: 3.30-7.10, P < 0.0001; OR = 6.86, 95% CI: 3.51-13.42, P < 0.0001; respectively). Conclusion: This study confirmed the association of HOTAIR rs920778 polymorphism with preeclampsia in Iranian women. Further studies should be performed to confirm our findings.

HOX transcript antisense RNA: An oncogenic lncRNA in diverse malignancies

HOX transcript antisense RNA (HOTAIR) is a transcript produced from the antisense strand of the HOXC gene cluster and influencing expression of genes from the HOXD locus. HOTAIR has prominent roles in different aspects of carcinogenic process from cancer initiation to metastasis. A number of in vitro, in vivo and human investigations have confirmed the oncogenic impacts of HOTAIR. The diagnostic power of HOTAIR in distinguishing cancer status from healthy status has been optimal in gastric cancer, pancreatic adenocarcinoma and colorectal cancer. The most important achievement in this regard has been provided by studies that verified diagnostic value of this lncRNA in the serum samples, potentiating its application in non-invasive diagnosis of cancer. Moreover, HOTAIR has a crucial role in determination of response of cancer cells to therapeutic modalities. The current review aims to explain the outlines of these studies to emphasize its potential as a biomarker and therapeutic target for these conditions.

Association between HOTAIR genetic polymorphisms and cancer susceptibility: A meta-analysis involving 122,832 subjects

The association between polymorphisms in HOTAIR gene and cancer susceptibility has been analyzed intensively, but the conclusions are inconsistent. Therefore, we carried out a meta-analysis aiming to assess the relationship exactly. Eligible studies were searched in PubMed and Embase databases up to October 31, 2019. Odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were used to assess the strength of association. Sensitivity analysis and publication bias were applied to evaluate the reliability of the study. Moreover, TSA was conducted to estimate the robustness of the results. Totally, 116 studies involving 122,832 subjects were analyzed in our meta-analysis. Significant increased risk of cancer was detected for the rs4759314, rs920778, rs1899663, rs12826786 and rs874945 polymorphisms. Further subgroup analyses according to cancer type revealed that different polymorphisms were associated with the risk of specific type of cancer. For example, the rs4759314 polymorphism was significantly associated with the risk of estrogen-dependent cancer, whereas the rs920778 polymorphism was associated with the risk of gastrointestinal cancer. In conclusion, our findings indicated that the rs4759314, rs920778, rs1899663, rs12826786 and rs874945 polymorphisms in HOTAIR may serve as genetic biomarkers of cancer.

Long Non-coding RNAs Involved in Resistance to Chemotherapy in Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer (OC) accounts for more than 150,000 deaths worldwide every year. Patients are often diagnosed at an advanced stage with metastatic dissemination. Although platinum- and taxane-based chemotherapies are effective treatment options, they are rarely curative and eventually, the disease will progress due to acquired resistance. Emerging evidence suggests a crucial role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the response to therapy in OC. Transcriptome profiling studies using high throughput approaches have identified differential expression patterns of lncRNAs associated with disease recurrence. Furthermore, several aberrantly expressed lncRNAs in resistant OC cells have been related to increased cell division, improved DNA repair, up-regulation of drug transporters or reduced susceptibility to apoptotic stimuli, supporting their involvement in acquired resistance. In this review, we will discuss the key aspects of lncRNAs associated with the development of resistance to platinum- and taxane-based chemotherapy in OC. The molecular landscape of OC will be introduced, to provide a background for understanding the role of lncRNAs in the acquisition of malignant properties. We will focus on the interplay between lncRNAs and molecular pathways affecting drug response to evaluate their impact on treatment resistance. Additionally, we will discuss the prospects of using lncRNAs as biomarkers or targets for precision medicine in OC. Although there is still plenty to learn about lncRNAs and technical challenges to be solved, the evidence of their involvement in OC and the development of acquired resistance are compelling and warrant further investigation for clinical applications.

Down-regulated lncRNA HOTAIR alleviates polycystic ovaries syndrome in rats by reducing expression of insulin-like growth factor 1 via microRNA-130a

It has been found that long noncoding RNA HOTAIR, microRNA‐130a (miR‐130a) and insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF1) expression are associated with ovarian cancer, thus, we hypothesised that the HOTAIR/miR‐130a/IGF1 axis might associate with endocrine disorders and biological behaviours of ovarian granulosa cells in rat models of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS rat models were established by injection of dehydro‐isoandrosterone, followed by treatment of si‐HOTAIR, oe‐HOTAIR, miR‐130a mimics or miR‐130a inhibitors. Serum hormonal levels were determined to evaluate endocrine conditions. The effect of HOTAIR and miR‐130a on activities of isolated ovarian granulosa cells was assessed, as well as the involvement of IGF1.In the ovarian tissues and granulosa cells of PCOS rat models, highly expressed HOTAIR and IGF1 and poorly expressed miR‐130a were identified. In response to oe‐HOTAIR, serum levels of E₂, T and LH were increased and serum levels of FSH were reduced; the proliferation of granulosa cells was reduced and apoptosis was promoted; notably, expression of miR‐130a was reduced while expression of IGF1 was increased. The treatment of si‐HOTAIR reversed the situation. Furthermore, the binding of HOTAIR to miR‐130a and targeting relationship of miR‐130a and IGF1 were confirmed. LncRNA HOTAIR up‐regulates the expression of IGF1 and aggravates the endocrine disorders and granulosa cell apoptosis through competitive binding to miR‐130a in rat models of PCOS. Based on our finding, we predict that competitive binding of HOTAIR to miR‐130a may act as a novel target for the molecular treatment of PCOS.

Association of long non-coding RNA HOTAIR and MALAT1 variants with cervical cancer risk in Han Chinese women

Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) HOTAIR and MALAT1 are implicated in the development of multiple cancers. Genetic variants within HOTAIR and MALAT1 may affect the gene expression, thereby modifying genetic susceptibility to cervical cancer. A case-control study was designed, including 1 486 cervical cancer patients and 1 536 healthy controls. Based on RegulomeDB database, 11 SNPs were selected and genotyped by using Sequenom's Mass ARRAY. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to calculate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). We found that the A allele of rs35643724 in HOTAIR was associated with increased risk of cervical cancer, while the C allele of rs1787666 in MALAT1 was associated with decreased risk. Compared to individuals with 0–1 unfavorable allele, those with 3–4 unfavorable alleles showed 18% increased odds of having cervical cancer. Our findings suggest that HOTAIR rs35643724 and MALAT1 rs1787666 might represent potential biomarkers for cervical cancer susceptibility.

Impact of HOTAIR variants on preeclampsia susceptibility based on blood and placenta and in silico analysis

HOX transcript antisense RNA (HOTAIR) as a lncRNA involves in epigenetic regulation of various genes. Several studies have been suggested the effects of HOTAIR polymorphisms on different diseases. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of maternal and placental HOTAIR polymorphisms on risk of preeclampsia (PE). The maternal blood of 203 preeclamptic and 202 nonpreeclamptic pregnant women as well as the placentas of 87 of preeclamptic and 95 nonpreeclamptic pregnant women were genotyped for HOTAIR polymorphisms. There was no association between maternal and placental HOTAIR polymorphisms (rs12826786, rs920778, and rs1899663) and PE risk. However, the maternal rs4759314AG and dominant model genotypes were associated with increased risk of PE. The maternal and placental HOTAIR rs10783618 polymorphism was associated with PE risk in recessive and allelic models. Haplotype analysis showed that, the maternal CTGAT and CCTAT and placental CTGAT haplotypes were significantly higher and maternal CTGAC, TCTAT, and TTGAT and placental CTGAC haplotypes were significantly lower in PE women. In silico analysis revealed that HOTAIR rs1899663 had a main effect on the secondary structure of mRNA, however, HOTAIR rs4759314 variant had potential alteration of splicing. In conclusion, the maternal and placental HOTAIR rs10783618 polymorphism might increase PE susceptibility. © 2019 IUBMB Life, 71(9):1367-1381, 2019.

The effect of long noncoding RNAs HOX transcript antisense intergenic RNA single-nucleotide polymorphisms on breast cancer, cervical cancer, and ovarian cancer susceptibility: A meta-analysis

Recent studies have shown that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA) HOX transcript antisense intergenic RNA (HOTAIR) polymorphisms are associated with cancer susceptibility. The greatest threat to women's health among a variety of cancers is breast cancer (BC), cervical cancer (CC), and ovarian cancer (OC), and the incidence of it is increasing. We performed a meta-analysis to clarify the relationship between lncRNA HOTAIR expression and BC, CC, and OC susceptibility. We thoroughly searched PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library to obtain the relevant literature. We extracted data from case groups and control groups for each single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) (rs4759314, rs920778, rs189663, rs12826786, rs7958904, and rs874945) and compared the relationship between alleles, codominance models, dominant and invisible models and BC, CC, and OC susceptibility. Our study included 11 studies with a total of 5322 patients. There was a significant association between the rs4759314 polymorphism of HOTAIR and susceptibility to BC, CC, and OC (codominant model: AG/AA odds ratio [OR] = 1.13 [95% confidence intervals [CI], 1.00-1.29], GG/AA OR = 1.54 [95% CI, 1.06-2.23]; dominant model: GG + AG/AA OR = 1.16 [95% CI, 1.02-1.32]; and recessive model: GG/AA + AG OR = 1.51 [95% CI, 1.05-2.19]). The association between the expression of rs920778 and BC, CC, and OC susceptibility was not clear (alleles T/C: OR = 1.28 [95% CI, 0.87-1.89]; in codominant model: CT/CC OR = 1.10, [95% CI, 0.71-1.71], TT/CC OR = 1.29 [95% CI, 0.59-2.80]; dominant model: TC + TT/CC OR = 1.16, [95% CI, 0.73-1.86]; and recessive model: TT/TC + CC OR = 1.43, [95% CI, 0.83-2.47]). HOTAIR polymorphism rs1899663 was associated with BC, CC, and OC susceptibility to a certain extent, (alleles T/G OR = 0.90 [95% CI, 0.69-1.16]; in the codominant model: GT/GG OR = 0.81 [95% CI, 0.50-1.30], TT/GG OR = 1.04 [95% CI, 0.63-1.72]; dominant model: GT + TT/GG OR = 0.82 [95% CI, 0.52-1.29]; and recessive model: TT/GT + GG OR = 1.21 [95% CI, 0.76-1.94]). The rs12826786, rs7958904, and rs874945 polymorphisms were associated with a certain degree of BC, CC, and OC susceptibility, but they were not statistically significant. HOTAIR rs4759314 increased susceptibility to BC, CC, and OC in some patients; rs029778 and rs1899663 also increased susceptibility to some extent. SNPs rs12826786, rs7958904, and rs874945 did not correlate with an effect on patient susceptibility to BC, CC, and OC.

Long noncoding RNA SNHG15 serves as an oncogene and predicts poor prognosis in epithelial ovarian cancer

Objective

This study aims to investigate the functional role of long noncoding RNA SNHG15 in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC).

Materials and methods

The expression of SNHG15 was measured in EOC cells and tissues using qRT-PCR. The correlation of SNHG15 expression and the clinicopathological characters was statistically analyzed. The prognosis of patients with different clinical features in the high/low SNHG15 expression groups were calculated. Moreover, univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed to identify the risk factors for poor overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). The effect of SNHG15 on the migration and invasion was evaluated using Transwell and Matrigel, respectively. The proliferation ability of EOC cells was tested using colony formation and MTT assay. The influence of SNHG15 on the cisplatin resistance was detected by measuring cell inhibition rate and cell viability.

Results

SNHG15 was upegulated in EOC cells and tissues. High SNHG15 expression was correlated with EOC progression and predicted poor OS and PFS in different subgroups of EOC patients. Moreover, multivariate Cox regression analysis defined high SNHG15 expression as an independent risk factor for poor OS and PFS. Furthermore, functional assays showed that the overexpression of SNHG15 promoted migration and invasion, while the loss of SNHG15 suppressed migration and invasion. Furthermore, the proliferation of EOC cells was improved after the ectopic expression of SNHG15, which was suppressed with SNHG15 deficiency. In addition, cisplatin-resistant EOC cells were established for detecting the effect of SNHG15 on EOC chemoresistance. The results showed that cisplatin-resistant EOC cells exhibited much higher levels of SNHG15 expression than controls, and SNHG15 contributed to the chemoresistance of EOC cells.

Conclusion

This study confirms that SNHG15 contributes to the migration, invasion, proliferation, and chemoresistance of EOC. SNHG15 may serve as a potential therapeutic target and prognostic biomarker of EOC patients.

Association of twelve polymorphisms in three onco-lncRNA genes with hepatocellular cancer risk and prognosis: A case-control study

AIM

To evaluate the association of 12 tag single nucleotide polymorphisms (tagSNPs) in three onco-long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) genes (HOTTIP, CCAT2, MALAT1) with the risk and prognosis of hepatocellular cancer (HCC).

METHODS

Twelve tagSNPs covering the three onco-lncRNAs were genotyped by the KASP method in a total of 1338 samples, including 521 HCC patients and frequency-matched 817 controls. The samples were obtained from an unrelated Chinese population at the First Hospital of China Medical University from 2012-2015. The expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) analyses were conducted to explore further the potential function of the promising SNPs.

RESULTS

Three SNPs in HOTTIP, one promoter SNP in MALAT1, and one haplotype of HOTTIP were associated with HCC risk. The HOTTIP rs17501292, rs2067087, and rs17427960 SNPs were increased to 1.55-, 1.20-, and 1.18-fold HCC risk under allelic models (P = 0.012, 0.017 and 0.049, respectively). MALAT1 rs4102217 SNP was increased to a 1.32-fold HCC risk under dominant models (P = 0.028). In addition, the two-way interaction of HOTTIP rs17501292-MALAT1 rs619586 polymorphisms showed a decreased effect on HCC risk (P_interaction = 0.028, OR = 0.30) and epistasis with each other. HOTTIP rs3807598 variant genotype showed significantly longer survival time in HBV negative subgroup (P = 0.049, HR = 0.12), and MALAT1 rs591291 showed significantly better prognosis in female and HBV negative subgroups (P = 0.022, HR = 0.37; P = 0.042, HR = 0.25, respectively). In the study, no significant effect was observed in eQTL analysis.

CONCLUSION

Specific lncRNA (HOTTIP and MALAT1) SNPs have potential to be biomarkers for HCC risk and prognosis.

Genetic variation of long non-coding RNA TINCR contribute to the susceptibility and progression of colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) accounts for the leading causes of cancer-related morbidity and mortality. However, a large part of heritable factors are warranted to be explored. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) serve critical roles in cancer development and progression. Herein, we explored effect of genetic variants of Tissue differentiation-inducing non-protein coding RNA (TINCR), a key lncRNA required for somatic tissue differentiation and tumor progression, on risk and progression of CRC. Three tagSNPs, including rs2288947, rs8105637, and rs12610531, were evaluated in in a two-stage, case-control study. Two SNPs, rs2288947 and rs8105637, were significantly associated with susceptibility of CRC in both stages. When pooled together, the allele G was significantly associated with 23% decreased risk of CRC (OR=0.77; 95% CI=0.67-0.88; P value = 1.2×10-4)for SNP rs2288947. While for SNP rs8105637, the allele A was significantly associated with 22% increased risk of CRC (OR=1.22; 95% CI=1.09-1.37; P value = 6.2×10-4). The two SNPs were also statistically associated with occurrence of lymph node metastasis of CRC. The carriers of allele G are less likely to get lymph node metastasis (OR=0.77; 95% CI=0.63-0.94; P value = 0.011) for rs2288947, and the carriers of allele A are more likely to get lymph node metastasis (OR=1.22; 95% CI=1.03-1.43; P value = 0.019) for rs8105637. These results suggest that lncRNA TINCR polymorphisms may be implicated in the development and progression of CRC.

Long non-coding RNA HOTAIR polymorphism and susceptibility to cancer: an updated meta-analysis

Background

An increasing number of publications are drawing attention to the associations between six common polymorphisms in HOX transcript anti-sense RNA (HOTAIR) and the risk of cancers, while these results have been controversial and inconsistent. We conducted an up-to-date meta-analysis to pool eligible studies and to further explore the possible relationships between HOTAIR polymorphisms (rs920778, rs7958904, rs12826786, 4,759,314, rs874945, and rs1899663) and cancer risk.

Methods

A systematic retrieval was conducted up to 1 July 2017 in the PubMed, Web of Science, and CNKI databases. Eighteen eligible publications including 45 case-control studies with 58,601subjects were enrolled for assessing the associations between the 6 polymorphisms in HOTAIR and cancer risk. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were analyzed to reveal the polymorphisms and susceptibility to cancer. All the statistical analyses were performed using STATA 11.0 software.

Results

The pooled analyses detected significant associations between the rs920778 polymorphism and increased susceptibility to cancer in recessive, dominant, allelic, homozygous, and heterozygous models. For the rs7958904 polymorphism, we obtained the polymorphism significantly decreased susceptibility to overall cancer risk among five genetic models rather than recessive and homozygous models. For the rs12826786 polymorphism, we identified it significantly increased susceptibility to cancer risk in all genetic models rather than heterozygous models. However, no significant association was found between the rs1899663, rs874945, and rs4759314 polymorphisms and susceptibility of cancer.

Conclusion

These findings of the meta-analysis suggest that HOTAIR polymorphism may contribute to cancer susceptibility.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12199-018-0697-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

The association between HOTAIR polymorphisms and cancer susceptibility: an updated systemic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

This work aims to explore whether HOX transcript antisense intergenic RNA (HOTAIR) polymorphisms are associated with cancer susceptibility.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A comprehensive search was conducted for literature published from January 2007 to July 2017. The pooled odds ratios (ORs) and the corresponding 95% CIs were calculated using the Revman 5.2 software. Eighteen articles of 36 case-control studies were enrolled including six HOTAIR polymorphisms and 10 cancer types.

RESULTS

The results showed that cancer risk was elevated in recessive mutation of rs12826786 (TT vs CC+CT: OR =1.55, 95% CI =1.19, 2.03; TT+CT vs CC: OR =1.23, 95% CI =1.04, 1.46; TT vs CC: OR =1.67, 95% CI =1.24, 2.24; T vs C: OR =1.24, 95% CI =1.09, 1.40) and rs920778 (TT vs CC+CT: OR =1.73, 95% CI =1.30, 2.30; TT+CT vs CC: OR =1.40, 95% CI =1.16, 1.70; TT vs CC: OR =1.83, 95% CI =1.25, 2.68; T vs C: OR =1.37, 95% CI =1.18, 1.59), while the results for polymorphisms of rs7958904, rs4759314, rs874945, and rs1899663 were insignificant. The stratified results for Chinese population were consistent with the overall group analysis.

CONCLUSION

Our meta-analysis showed that HOTAIR polymorphisms of rs12826786 and rs920778 were correlated with increased cancer risk, while rs7958904, rs4759314, rs874945, and rs1899663 were not. More studies with different types of cancer are needed to confirm the findings.

Systematic analysis reveals a lncRNA-mRNA co-expression network associated with platinum resistance in high-grade serous ovarian cancer

Resistance to platinum-based chemotherapy is the major barrier to treating high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGS-OvCa). To improve HGS-OvCa patient prognosis, it is critical to identify the underlying mechanisms that promote platinum resistance. The goal of the present study was to identify a lncRNA-mRNA co-expression network and key lncRNAs that predict resistance to platinum-based chemotherapy in ovarian cancer patients. By systematically analyzing the expression profiles of lncRNAs and mRNAs in HGS-OvCa samples from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), we revealed that lncRNAs play important roles in platinum resistance in HGS-OvCa patients and delineate a lncRNA-mRNA co-expression network in HGS-OvCa patients who exhibit platinum resistance. Within the platinum resistance-specific lncRNA-mRNA network, 35 lncRNAs and 270 mRNAs showed 124 significant lncRNA-mRNA co-expression relationships. Pathway analysis revealed that lncRNAs in the platinum resistance network may participate in platinum resistance by regulating metabolic pathways. Moreover, HGS-OvCa patients with low lncRNA RP5-1120P11.1 expression showed a poorer prognosis than those with high lncRNA RP5-1120P11.1 expression in TCGA dataset (P = 2.74 × 10^-5, log rank test), which was also validated in the GSE63885 dataset (P = 0.0242, log rank test). Network and function analysis revealed that lncRNA RP5-1120P11.1 regulates many cancer-related signaling pathways, such as the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway (P = 1.02 × 10^-5, hypergeometric test) and the Jak-STAT signaling pathway (P = 1.71 × 10^-4, hypergeometric test). Particularly, lncRNA RP5-1120P11.1 expression is significantly positively correlated with ABCC10 gene expression (P = 3.89 × 10^-3, Pearson correlation test). Both lncRNA RP5-1120P11.1 and ABCC10 were down-regulated in platinum-resistant HGS-OvCa patients, and RP5-1120P11.1 is located near ABCC10 on chromosome 6. Gene ABCC10 has been implicated in resistance to docetaxel treatment. The present study paves the way for investigating lncRNA functions in platinum drug resistance and identifying lncRNAs with prognostic and therapeutic potential in HGS-OvCa.

Genetic variants as ovarian cancer first-line treatment hallmarks: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The potential predictive value of genetic polymorphisms in ovarian cancer first-line treatment is inconsistently reported. We aimed to review ovarian cancer pharmacogenetic studies to update and summarize the available data and to provide directions for further research.

METHODS

A systematic review followed by a meta-analysis was conducted on cohort studies assessing the involvement of genetic polymorphisms in ovarian cancer first-line treatment response retrieved through a MEDLINE database search by November 2016. Studies were pooled and summary estimates and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using random or fixed-effects models as appropriate.

RESULTS

One hundred and forty-two studies gathering 106871 patients were included. Combined data suggested that GSTM1-null genotype patients have a lower risk of death compared to GSTM1-wt carriers, specifically in advanced stages (hazard ratio (HR), 0.68; 95% CI, 0.48-0.97) and when submitted to platinum-based chemotherapy (aHR, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.39-0.94). ERCC1 rs11615 and rs3212886 might have also a significant impact in treatment outcome (aHR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.51-0.89; aHR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.01-1.63, respectively). Moreover, ERCC2 rs13181 and rs1799793 showed a distinct ethnic behavior (Asians: aHR, 1.41; 95% CI, 0.80-2.49; aHR, 1.07; 95% CI, 0.62-1.86; Caucasians: aHR, 0.10; 95% CI, 0.01-0.96; aHR, 0.18; 95% CI, 0.05-0.68, respectively).

CONCLUSION(S)

The definition of integrative predictive models should encompass genetic information, especially regarding GSTM1 homozygous deletion. Justifying additional pharmacogenetic investigation are variants in ERCC1 and ERCC2, which highlight the DNA Repair ability to ovarian cancer prognosis. Further knowledge could aid to understand platinum-treatment failure and to tailor chemotherapy strategies.

Quantitative assessment of lncRNA HOTAIR polymorphisms and cancer risk in Chinese population: a meta-analysis based on 26,810 subjects

As a well-known long non-coding RNA, HOTAIR has been demonstrated to be involved in carcinogenesis and progression of various human cancers. Previous studies have investigated the potential association between HOTAIR polymorphisms and cancer risk in Chinese population. However, the results remain conflicting. Therefore, for the first time, we conducted a meta-analysis to derive a more precise estimation of these associations for Chinese. PubMed, Embase, CNKI and Wanfang databases were systematically searched. Odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were applied to assess the association between rs920778, rs4759314, rs7958904, rs874945 and rs1899663 polymorphisms of HOTAIR and cancer susceptibility. Heterogeneity, sensitivity analysis and publication bias were conducted to measure the robustness of our findings. A total of 21 eligible studies comprising 12,278 cases and 14,532 controls were analyzed. The pooled data showed that rs920778 polymorphism was significantly associated with an increased cancer risk in all five genetic models in Chinese population. As for rs4759314 and rs874945 polymorphisms, similarly increased risks were found in specific genetic models and stratified groups. However, significant decreases in cancer risk were observed for rs7958904 in the total population, as well as in subgroup analyses. In addition, lack of association was detected between rs1899663 polymorphism and cancer susceptibility. In summary, our meta-analysis implicates possible relationship between HOTAIR polymorphisms and cancer risk in Chinese population.

HOTAIR: a key regulator in gynecologic cancers

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play critical roles in the initiation and progression of human cancers. HOX transcript antisense RNA (HOTAIR) is an lncRNA localized to the mammalian HOXC gene cluster; it can interact with polycomb repressive complex 2 and the lysine-specific histone demethylase/CoREST/REST complex, and it manipulates the expression of various genes. HOTAIR promotes tumor invasion and metastasis by silencing tumor suppressors, and activating oncogenes and signaling pathways. HOTAIR is deregulated in many human cancers; despite its critical roles in health and disease, the underlying mechanisms governing HOTAIR function are unknown. In this review, we summarize the recent findings on the roles of HOTAIR in gynecologic cancers.