Identification of circRNA-lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA Competitive Endogenous RNA Network as Novel Prognostic Markers for Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Anti-tumor effects of nanosecond pulsed electric fields in a murine model of pancreatic cancer

Nanosecond Pulsed Electric Fields (nsPEFs) treatment has demonstrated anti-tumor effects on various cancer cell lines. However, the use of this treatment in pancreatic cancer is limited. This study demonstrated that nsPEFs treatment effectively suppressed the proliferation and metastasis of pancreatic cancer cells, while also inducing DNA damage. Meanwhile, animal experiments have shown that nsPEFs effectively suppressed the growth of pancreatic cancer, even in cases where the tumor volume exceeded 500-600 mm3 at the initiation of treatment. Notably, a single treatment session was found to significantly inhibit tumor growth, while also showing no adverse effects on the main organs of the mice. RNA sequencing and bioinformatics revealed that seven key genes (CDK1, CENPA, UBE2C, CCNB2, PLK1, CCNA2, and CCNB14) were significantly correlated with the overall survival rate of patients with pancreatic cancer. Through the application of the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) hypothesis, two miRNAs (has-let-7b-5p and hsa-miR-193b-3p) and four lncRNAs (MIR4435-2HG, ZNF436-AS1, LINC01089, and MIR4435-2HG) were identified as significantly impacting the overall survival of pancreatic cancer patients. We have effectively developed an mRNA-miRNA-lncRNA network that has the potential to stimulate further investigation into the underlying mechanisms of nsPEFs on pancreatic cancer.

MT1E in AML: a gateway to understanding regulatory cell death and immunotherapeutic responses

Regulated cell death (RCD) plays a crucial role in the initiation and progression of tumors, particularly in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). This study investigates the prognostic importance of RCD-related genes in AML and their correlation with immune infiltration. We combined TCGA and GTEx data, analyzing 1,488 RCD-related genes, to develop a predictive model using LASSO regression and survival analysis. The model's accuracy was validated against multiple databases, examining immune cell infiltration, therapy responses, and drug sensitivity among risk groups. RT-qPCR confirmed MT1E expression in AML patients and healthy bone marrow. CCK8 and Transwell assays measured cell proliferation, adhesion, migration, and invasion, while flow cytometry and Western blotting assessed apoptosis and protein expression. We developed a prognostic model using 10 RCD methods, which demonstrated strong predictive ability, showing an inverse correlation between age and risk scores with survival in AML patients. Functional enrichment analysis of the model is linked to immune modulation pathways. RT-qPCR revealed significantly lower MT1E expression in AML vs healthy bone marrow (P < 0.05). Consequently, experiments were designed to assess the function of MT1E overexpression. Findings indicated that MT1E overexpression showed it significantly reduced THP-1 cell proliferation and adhesion (P < 0.001), decreased migration (P < 0.001), and invasiveness (P < 0.05), and increased apoptosis (P < 0.05), with a notable rise in Caspase3 expression. A novel AML RCD risk model was developed, showing promise as a prognostic marker for evaluating outcomes and immune therapy effectiveness. Insights into MT1E's impact on AML cell proliferation and apoptosis open possibilities for improving patient outcomes and devising personalized treatment strategies.

AMPK Activation in TET2 Downregulated Leukemia Cells Upon Glutamine Limitation

Objective

Metabolic rewiring is a characteristic of cancer cells. Cancer cells require more nutrients for survival and proliferation. Although glutamine can be produced in cells via a series of enzymatic reactions, a group of cancer cells are dependent on extracellular glutamine for survival. TET2 plays a role in DNA demethylation and is a tumor suppressor gene. The TET2 gene is frequently mutated in various cancers, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Our study aimed to investigate the association between TET2-knockdown AML cell line HL-60 cells and glutamine metabolism.

Methods

To evaluate the association between TET2 expression and glutamine limitation, TET2 was downregulated in HL-60 cells using shRNA plasmids. The proliferation of TET2-knockdown HL-60 cells was calculated in normal and glutamine-deficient medium. GLUL mRNA expression was investigated using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and protein levels were evaluated using immunoblotting.

Results

The numbers and viability of TET2-knockdown HL-60 cells were decreased in low glutamine-containing medium, but the viability of TET2-knockdown HL-60 cells was higher than that of control cells. GLUL mRNA expressions were increased in TET2-knockdown cells in low glutamine. In addition, P-AMPKα protein expression was increased in TET2-knockdown HL-60 cells in low glutamine-containing medium.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that TET2-knockdown HL-60 cells may be more resistant to glutamine deprivation. In glutamine-deficient medium, the mRNA expression of glutamine synthetase is increased, which could be related to glutamine addiction in cells. In addition, low-glutamyl medium increased the P-AMPKα protein level in TET2-knockdown HL-60 cells.

Abnormal expression of circ_0013958 in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and its influence on prognosis

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the diagnostic value of circ_0013958 in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients and its influence on the prognosis of AMI patients.

METHODS

The GSE160717 dataset was downloaded from the NCBI database and differentially expressed genes were analyzed between the control group and the AMI group. The up-regulated genes included circ_0013958. The expression of circ_0013958 in both groups was further verified by RT-qPCR. The Receiver Operating Characteristic curve was used to evaluate the diagnostic value of circ_0013958 in AMI. Pearson correlation analysis was used to examine the correlation between circ_0013958 levles and biochemical indicators. Binary logistic regression was used to analyze the risk factors affecting the occurrence of AMI. Prognostic analysis was performed using COX regression analysis and the Kaplan-Meier Curve.

RESULTS

Compared to the control group, the level of circ_0013958 in AMI patients increased. Circ_0013958 can effectively distinguish AMI patients from non-AMI patients. Circ_0013958 levels were positively correlated with cTnI, LDH, CRP and TC levels. The elevated level of circ_0013958 was an independent risk factor for the occurrence of AMI. Higher circ_0013958 levels were also associated with the occurrence of major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) in AMI patients. Additionally, elevated circ_0013958 levels reduced the survival probability of AMI patients.

CONCLUSION

Circ_0013958 levels were up-regulated in AMI patients. It can be used as a diagnosis biomarker for AMI. The level of circ_0013958 was correlated with the disease severity and was an independent risk factor for the occurrence of AMI. Elevated circ_0013958 levels were associated with poor prognosis in AMI patients.

A review of disease risk prediction methods and applications in the omics era

Risk prediction and disease prevention are the innovative care challenges of the 21st century. Apart from freeing the individual from the pain of disease, it will lead to low medical costs for society. Until very recently, risk assessments have ushered in a new era with the emergence of omics technologies, including genomics, transcriptomics, epigenomics, proteomics, and so on, which potentially advance the ability of biomarkers to aid prediction models. While risk prediction has achieved great success, there are still some challenges and limitations. We reviewed the general process of omics-based disease risk model construction and the applications in four typical diseases. Meanwhile, we highlighted the problems in current studies and explored the potential opportunities and challenges for future clinical practice.

TM6SF1 suppresses the progression of lung adenocarcinoma and M2 macrophage polarization by inactivating the PI3K/AKT/mtor pathway

Transmembrane 6 superfamily 1 (TM6SF1) is lowly expressed in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), but the function and mechanisms of TM6SF1 remain unclear. Thus, we attempt to explore the function of TM6SF1 and its underlying mechanisms in LUAD. qRT-PCR was used for detecting TM6SF1 mRNA expression. Immunohistochemistry staining was used for detecting the expression of MMP-2, TM6SF1, Ki67, MMP-9, and CD163 proteins. E-cadherin, p-PI3K, Vimentin, AKT, N-cadherin, PI3K, p-AKT, mTOR, p-mTOR, and marker proteins of M2 macrophages were evaluated using Western blot. CD206 protein expression was examined via immunofluorescence. The IL-10 concentration was measured via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Using CCK-8, colony formation and transwell assays, cell proliferation, migration, and invasion were assessed. A549 cells were injected into the mice's flank for establishing a mouse tumor model and into the tail vein for establishing the lung metastasis model. HE staining was performed to detect pathological changes in lung tissues. Decreased TM6SF1 expression was found in LUAD tissues and cells. TM6SF1 overexpression inhibited cell viability, proliferation, invasion, migration, EMT, and polarization of M2 macrophages in LUAD cells, along with tumor growth and metastasis in xenograft mice. Bioinformatics analysis demonstrated that TM6SF1 was correlated with the tumor microenvironment. TM6SF1 overexpression reduced expression levels of p-mTOR, p-PI3K, p-AKT, mTOR, and AKT. TM6SF1-caused inhibition of proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT, as M2 macrophage polarization was reversed by the PI3K activator in LUAD cells. TM6SF1 inactivated the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway to suppress LUAD malignancy and polarization of M2 macrophages, providing insight for developing new LUAD treatments.

[Molecular Mechanism of circVRK1 Regulating the Proliferation and Apoptosis of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia KOCL44 Cells by Targeting miR-4428]

Objective

To elucidate the role of circVRK1 and its interaction with miR-4428 in regulating proliferation and apoptosis in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) cells.

Methods

KOCL44 ALL cells were cultured in vitro, and experimental groups included pcDNA, pcDNA-circVRK1, anti-miR-NC, anti-miR-4428, si-NC, si-circVRK1, pcDNA-circVRK1+miR-NC, and pcDNA-circVRK1+miR-4428. The expression levels of circVRK1 and miR-4428 were detected using qRT-PCR. CCK-8 assays and flow cytometry were used to assess cell proliferation and apoptosis, respectively. The dual luciferase reporter assays were employed to investigate the interaction between circVRK1 and miR-4428, with groups categorized as WT-circVRK1+miR-NC, WT-circVRK1+miR-4428, MUT-circVRK1+miR-NC, and MUT-circVRK1+ miR-4428. Western blotting was utilized to detect the expression levels of Ki-67, cleaved caspase-3, and cleaved caspase-9 proteins.

Results

Compared to the pcDNA group, circVRK1 expression was up-regulated in the pcDNA-circVRK1 group (P<0.05). Compared to transfection with pcDNA or anti-miR-NC, transfection with pcDNA-circVRK1 or anti-miR-4428 led to decreased cell viability and Ki-67 protein levels in KOCL44 cells (P<0.05), and increased apoptosis rates and levels of cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved caspase-9 (P<0.05). circVRK1 was found to negatively regulate miR-4428 expression, with this effect observed only in the WT-circVRK1 group. miR-4428 levels were lower in the pcDNA-circVRK1 group compared to the pcDNA group (P<0.05) and higher in the si-circVRK1 group compared to the si-NC group (P<0.05). Co-transfection with pcDNA-circVRK1+miR-4428 resulted in increased cell viability (P<0.05) and Ki-67 expression (P<0.05), and decreased apoptosis rates and levels of cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved caspase-9 (P<0.05) compared to co-transfection with pcDNA-circVRK1+miR-NC.

Conclusion

Overexpression of circVRK1 reduces the proliferation ability of acute ALL cells and induces cell apoptosis by downregulating miR-4428 expression.

Analysis of differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs associated with slow‑transit constipation

Slow transit constipation (STC) is a refractory gastrointestinal disease, accounting for approximately 13 ∼ 37 % of chronic constipation. However, the molecular mechanism of STC remains poorly understood. Herein, this study aims to identify the key mRNAs and lncRNAs associated with STC. To this end, we performed high-throughput RNA sequencing to identify differentially expressed (DE) mRNAs and lncRNAs in the whole-layer sigmoid intestinal tissues from 4 STC patients and 4 non-STC patients. The identified DE lncRNAs and mRNAs were validated through quantitative real-time PCR. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and Pearson correlation analysis were conducted to determine the significantly correlated DE mRNA-lncRNA pairs. A total of 1420 DE lncRNAs and 1634 DE mRNAs were identified. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis of DE mRNAs indicated that these DE mRNAs might be associated with systemic lupus erythematosus, alcoholism, intestinal immune network for IgA production, inflammatory bowel disease, NF-kappa B signaling pathway. WGCNA and Pearson correlation analyses jointly identified 16,577 significantly correlated DE mRNA-lncRNA pairs. Furthermore, lncRNAs LINC00641, LINC02268, LINC03013 were identified as hub lncRNAs. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of proteins encoded by DE mRNAs was established, and PPI-based analysis revealed that Interleukin 2(IL2), CD80 molecule (CD80), interleukin-17A (IL-17A) might play significant roles in the development of STC. This study analyzes the expression profiles of lncRNAs and mRNAs associated with STC. Our findings will contribute to further understanding of the molecular mechanism of STC and provide potential diagnostic or therapeutic biomarkers for STC.

Circ_0007445 inhibits trophoblast cell proliferation, migration and invasion by mediating the miR-4432/HTRA1 axis in preeclampsia

BACKGROUND

: Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been shown to be extensively involved in preeclampsia progression. At present, the role of circ_0007445 in preeclampsia progression is not clear.

METHODS

A total of 30 preeclampsia patients and 30 normal pregnant women were recruited in our study. The function of trophoblast cells was explored to clarify the role and mechanism of circ_0007445 on the preeclampsia progression. The expression of circ_0007445, microRNA (miR)-4432 and high temperature requirement A1 (HTRA1) was analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR. The proliferation, migration and invasion of trophoblast cells were determined by cell counting kit 8 assay, EdU assay, colony formation assay, flow cytometry, and transwell assay. Protein expression was examined by western blot analysis. Dual-luciferase reporter assay, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay and RNA pull-down assay were used to assess RNA interaction relationships.

RESULTS

Our data suggested that circ_0007445 had increased expression in preeclampsia patients. Knockdown of circ_0007445 enhanced trophoblast cell proliferation, migration and invasion. MiR-4432 was lowly expressed in preeclampsia patients, and it could be sponged by circ_0007445. MiR-4432 inhibitor overturned the promotion effects of circ_0007445 knockdown on trophoblast cell functions. HTRA1 was highly expressed in preeclampsia patients, and it could be targeted by miR-4432. HTRA1 overexpression could also reverse the proliferation, migration and invasion of trophoblast cells promoted by miR-4432 mimic. In addition, circ_0007445 positively regulated HTRA1 through targeting miR-4432.

CONCLUSION

:Our results suggested that circ_0007445 facilitated the development of preeclampsia by suppressing trophoblast cell function through miR-4432/HTRA1 axis.

Identification of Novel DNA Methylation Prognostic Biomarkers for AML With Normal Cytogenetics

PURPOSE

AML is a hematologic cancer that is clinically heterogeneous, with a wide range of clinical outcomes. DNA methylation changes are a hallmark of AML but are not routinely used as a criterion for risk stratification. The aim of this study was to explore DNA methylation markers that could risk stratify patients with cytogenetically normal AML (CN-AML), currently classified as intermediate-risk.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

DNA methylation profiles in whole blood samples from 77 patients with CN-AML in The Cancer Genome Atlas (LAML cohort) were analyzed. Individual 5'-cytosine-phosphate-guanine-3' (CpG) sites were assessed for their ability to predict overall survival. The output was validated using DNA methylation profiles from bone marrow samples of 79 patients with CN-AML in a separate data set from the Gene Expression Omnibus.

RESULTS

In the training set, using DNA methylation data derived from the 450K array, we identified 2,549 CpG sites that could potentially distinguish patients with CN-AML with an adverse prognosis (intermediate-poor) from those with a more favorable prognosis (intermediate-favorable) independent of age. Of these, 25 CpGs showed consistent prognostic potential across both the 450K and 27K array platforms. In a separate validation data set, nine of these 25 CpGs exhibited statistically significant differences in 2-year survival. These nine validated CpGs formed the basis for a combined prognostic biomarker panel, which includes an 8-CpG Somatic Panel and the methylation status of cg23947872. This panel displayed strong predictive ability for 2-year survival, 2-year progression-free survival, and complete remission in the validation cohort.

CONCLUSION

This study highlights DNA methylation profiling as a promising approach to enhance risk stratification in patients with CN-AML, potentially offering a pathway to more personalized treatment strategies.

Construction of an immune-related prognostic signature and lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA ceRNA network in acute myeloid leukemia

The progression of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is influenced by the immune microenvironment in the bone marrow and dysregulated intracellular competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks. Our study utilized data from UCSC Xena, The Cancer Genome Atlas Program, the Gene Expression Omnibus, and the Immunology Database and Analysis Portal. Using Cox regression analysis, we identified an immune-related prognostic signature. Genomic analysis of prognostic messenger RNA (mRNA) was conducted through Gene Set Cancer Analysis (GSCA), and a prognostic ceRNA network was constructed using the Encyclopedia of RNA Interactomes. Correlations between signature mRNAs and immune cell infiltration, checkpoints, and drug sensitivity were assessed using R software, gene expression profiling interactive analysis (GEPIA), and CellMiner, respectively. Adhering to the ceRNA hypothesis, we established a potential long noncoding RNA (lncRNA)/microRNA (miRNA)/mRNA regulatory axis. Our findings pinpointed 9 immune-related prognostic mRNAs (KIR2DL1, CSRP1, APOBEC3G, CKLF, PLXNC1, PNOC, ANGPT1, IL1R2, and IL3RA). GSCA analysis revealed the impact of copy number variations and methylation on AML. The ceRNA network comprised 14 prognostic differentially expressed lncRNAs (DE-lncRNAs), 6 prognostic DE-miRNAs, and 3 prognostic immune-related DE-mRNAs. Correlation analyses linked these mRNAs' expression to 22 immune cell types and 6 immune checkpoints, with potential sensitivity to 27 antitumor drugs. Finally, we identified a potential LINC00963/hsa-miR-431-5p/CSRP1 axis. This study offers innovative insights for AML diagnosis and treatment through a novel immune-related signature and ceRNA axis. Identified novel biomarkers, including 2 mRNAs (CKLF, PNOC), 1 miRNA (hsa-miR-323a-3p), and 10 lncRNAs (SNHG25, LINC01857, AL390728.6, AC127024.5, Z83843.1, AP002884.1, AC007038.1, AC112512, AC020659.1, AC005921.3) present promising candidates as potential targets for precision medicine, contributing to the ongoing advancements in the field.

Chidamide inhibits cell glycolysis in acute myeloid leukemia by decreasing N6-methyladenosine-related GNAS-AS1

BACKGROUND

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a hematopoietic malignancy. Chidamide has shown anti-cancer effect in different malignancies. The function of Chidamide in glycolysis in AML cells remains unclear.

METHODS

AML cells were treated with 1000 nM Chidamide for 48 h. The levels of long non-coding RNA-GNAS-AS1, miR-34a-5p, glycolysis-related proteins, and Ras homolog gene family (RhoA)/Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) signaling-related proteins were detected by qRT-PCR or western blot. Cell viability and apoptosis were measured by CCK-8 and flow cytometry. Glycolysis levels were measured by assay kits. GNAS-AS1 N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification level was detected by methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing. The combined targets of miR-34a-5p were validated using a dual-luciferase reporter assay. BALB/C nude mice were selected for subcutaneous tumor validation. Chidamide at a dosage of 25 mg/kg was used in the animal study.

RESULTS

GNAS-AS1 promoted glycolysis in AML cells by upregulating the expression of glycolysis-related proteins and increasing glucose consumption, lactate production, ATP generation, and the extracellular acidification rate. Chidamide treatment suppressed WT1-associated protein (WTAP)-mediated RNA m6A modification of GNAS-AS1. Chidamide downregulated GNAS-AS1 to inhibit glycolysis in AML cells. GNAS-AS1 targeted miR-34a-5p to promote insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA-binding protein (IGF2BP2) expression. IGF2BP2 inhibition reversed the promoting effect of miR-34a-5p knockdown on glycolysis and RhoA/ROCK pathway in Chidamide-treated cells. GNAS-AS1 overexpression abolished the inhibitory effect of Chidamide on AML tumorigenesis in vivo by modulating the RhoA/ROCK pathway.

CONCLUSION

Chidamide inhibited glycolysis in AML by repressing WTAP-mediated GNAS-AS1 m6A modification and then regulating the miR-34a-5p/IGF2BP2 axis.

Neutrophil microRNAs

Neutrophils are considered 'first-line defence' cells as they can be rapidly recruited to the site of the immune response. As key components of non-specific immune mechanisms, neutrophils use phagocytosis, degranulation, and formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) to fight pathogens. Recently, immunoregulatory abilities of neutrophils associated with the secretion of several mediators, including cytokines and extracellular vesicles (EVs) containing, among other components, microRNAs (miRNAs), have also been reported. EVs are small structures released by cells into the extracellular space and are present in all body fluids. Microvesicles show the composition and status of the releasing cell, its physiological state, and pathological changes. Currently, EVs have gained immense scientific interest as they act as transporters of epigenetic information in intercellular communication. This review summarises findings from recent scientific reports that have evaluated the utility of miRNA molecules as biomarkers for effective diagnostics or even as start-points for new therapeutic strategies in neutrophil-mediated immune reactions. In addition, this review describes the current state of knowledge on miRNA molecules, which are endogenous regulators of gene expression besides being involved in the regulation of the immune response.

Long non-coding RNAs as promising targets for controlling disease vector mosquitoes

Hematophagous female mosquitoes are important vectors of numerous devastating human diseases, posing a major public health threat. Effective prevention and control of mosquito-borne diseases rely considerably on progress in understanding the molecular mechanisms of various life activities, and accordingly, the molecules that regulate the various life activities of mosquitoes are potential targets for implementing future vector control strategies. Many long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been identified in mosquitoes and significant progress has been made in determining their functions. Here, we present a comprehensive overview of the research advances on mosquito lncRNAs, including their molecular identification, function, and interaction with other non-coding RNAs, as well as their synergistic regulatory roles in mosquito life activities. We also highlight the potential roles of competitive endogenous RNAs in mosquito growth and development, as well as in insecticide resistance and virus-host interactions. Insights into the biological functions and mechanisms of lncRNAs in mosquito life activities, viral replication, pathogenesis, and transmission will contribute to the development of novel drugs and safe vaccines.

Integrated bioinformatics analysis for exploring potential biomarkers related to Parkinson's disease progression

BACKGROUND

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease with increasing prevalence. Effective diagnostic markers and therapeutic methods are still lacking. Exploring key molecular markers and mechanisms for PD can help with early diagnosis and treatment improvement.

METHODS

Three datasets GSE174052, GSE77668, and GSE168496 were obtained from the GEO database to search differentially expressed circRNA (DECs), miRNAs (DEMis), and mRNAs (DEMs). GO and KEGG enrichment analyses, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network construction were implemented to explore possible actions of DEMs. Hub genes were selected to establish circRNA-related competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks.

RESULTS

There were 1005 downregulated DECs, 21 upregulated and 21 downregulated DEMis, and 266 upregulated and 234 downregulated DEMs identified. The DEMs were significantly enriched in various PD-associated functions and pathways such as extracellular matrix organization, dopamine synthesis, PI3K-Akt, and calcium signaling pathways. Twenty-one hub genes were screened out, and a PD-related ceRNA regulatory network was constructed containing 31 circRNAs, one miRNA (miR-371a-3p), and one hub gene (KCNJ6).

CONCLUSION

We identified PD-related molecular markers and ceRNA regulatory networks, providing new directions for PD diagnosis and treatment.

Comprehensive analysis of immune-related lncRNAs in AML patients uncovers potential therapeutic targets and prognostic biomarkers

Purpose

The objective of this study was to provide theoretically feasible strategies by understanding the relationship between the immune microenvironment and the diagnosis and prognosis of AML patients. To this end, we built a ceRNA network with lncRNAs as the core and analyzed the related lncRNAs in the immune microenvironment by bioinformatics analysis.

Methods

AML transcriptome expression data and immune-related gene sets were obtained from TCGA and ImmPort. Utilizing Pearson correlation analysis, differentially expressed immune-related lncRNAs were identified. Then, the LASSO-Cox regression analysis was performed to generate a risk signature consisting immune-related lncRNAs. Accuracy of signature in predicting patient survival was evaluated using univariate and multivariate analysis. Next, GO and KEGG gene enrichment and ssGSEA were carried out for pathway enrichment analysis of 183 differentially expressed genes, followed by drug sensitivity and immune infiltration analysis with pRRophetic and CIBERSORT, respectively. Cytoscape was used to construct the ceRNA network for these lncRNAs.

Results

816 common lncRNAs were selected to acquire the components related to prognosis. The final risk signature established by multivariate Cox and stepwise regression analysis contained 12 lncRNAs engaged in tumor apoptotic and metastatic processes: LINC02595, HCP5, AC020934.2, AC008770.3, LINC01770, AC092718.4, AL589863.1, AC131097.4, AC012368.1, C1RL-AS1, STARD4-AS1, and AC243960.1. Based on this predictive model, high-risk patients exhibited lower overall survival rates than low-risk patients. Signature lncRNAs showed significant correlation with tumor-infiltrating immune cells. In addition, significant differences in PD-1/PD-L1 expression and bleomycin/paclitaxel sensitivity were observed between risk groups.

Conclusion

LncRNAs related to immune microenvironment were prospective prognostic and therapeutic options for AML.

Comprehensive analysis of lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA ceRNA network in ischemic stroke

Objective

Competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks have uncovered a novel mode of RNA interaction, and are implicated in various biological processes and the pathogenesis of IS. This study aimed to explore the potential mechanisms underlying the ceRNA network in IS.

Methods

Four public datasets containing lncRNA and mRNA (GSE22255 and GSE16561) and miRNA (GSE55937 and GSE43618) expression profiles from the GEO database were systematically analyzed to explore the role of RNAs in ischemic stroke (IS). Differentially expressed mRNAs (DEmRNAs), lncRNAs (DElncRNAs), and miRNAs (DEmiRNAs) between IS and normal control samples were identified. LncRNA-miRNA and miRNA-mRNA interactions were predicted, and the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) regulatory network was constructed using the Cytoscape software. The correlation between the RNAs in the ceRNA network and the clinical features of the samples was evaluated. Finally, principal component analysis was performed on the RNAs that constitute the ceRNA regulatory network, and their differential expression and principal component relationships among different types of samples were observed.

Results

A total of 224 DEmRNAs, 7 DEmiRNAs, and four DElncRNAs related to IS in four datasets were identified. Then, through target gene prediction, a lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA ceRNA network that contained 3 DElncRNAs, 2 DEmiRNAs, and 24 DEmRNAs was constructed. Correlations of the clinical characteristics showed that PART1 and SERPINH1 were related to clinical diseases, WNK1 was related to lifestyle, and seven RNAs were related to age. PCA results indicate that three principal components of PC1, PC2, and PC3 can clearly distinguish between control and IS samples.

Conclusion

Overall, we constructed a ceRNA network in IS, which could offer insights into the molecular mechanism and potential prognostic biomarkers for further research.

Knockdown of circSlc8a1 inhibited the ferroptosis in the angiotensin II treated H9c2 cells via miR-673-5p/TFRC axis

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate the role of circSlc8a1 in cardiac hypertrophy (CH), a pathological change in various cardiovascular diseases.

METHODS

An in vitro CH model was established using angiotensin II (AngII) treated H9c2 cells, followed by western blotting and RT-qPCR for detecting relative expressions. Cell viability and proliferation were analyzed using CCK-8 and EdU assays, while lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), reactive oxygen species (ROS), glutathione (GSH), and iron levels were determined using corresponding kits. Moreover, dual-luciferase reporter and RNA pull-down assays were performed to demonstrate whether miR-673-5p is bound to circSlc8a1 or transferrin receptor (TFRC).

RESULTS

The results indicated that the expressions of circSlc8a1 and TFRC were increased, while miR-673-5p was decreased in the AngII treated H9c2 cells. The ferroptosis inhibitor treatment decreased the atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), and β-major histocompatibility complex (β-MHC) protein expressions, and circSlc8a1 expressions. Knocking down of circSlc8a1 inhibited promoted the cell viability and proliferation, increased the GSH content, glutathione peroxidase 4, and solute carrier family 7 member 11 protein expressions, and decreased the LDH, ROS, iron levels, and RAS protein expressions. The MiR-673-5p inhibitor antagonized the role of si-circSlc8a1, and the over-expressed TFRC reversed the miR-673-5p mimicking effects in AngII treated H9c2 cells.

CONCLUSION

CircSlc8a1 promoted the ferroptosis in CH via regulating the miR-673-5p/TFRC axis.

Splicing factor ESRP1 derived circ_0068162 promotes the progression of oral squamous cell carcinoma via the miR-186/JAG axis

OBJECTIVES

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a common malignancy in the oral and maxillofacial regions with an increasing incidence rate. Circular RNA (circRNA) is a recently discovered long-chain non-coding RNA family member. The objective of this study was to analyze the role of circ_0068162 in OSCC development.

METHODS

We downloaded sample data GSE145608 from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Online databases Starbase, TargetScan and miRDB were used to predict the target microRNAs (miRNAs) and genes. Cell viability and proliferation were assessed using the CCK-8 and EdU assays, respectively. Cell migration and invasion abilities were detected using transwell assay. The double luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays were performed to verify the interaction relationship between the identified target molecules. RNase R and actinomycin D treatment were performed to analyze the stability of circ_0068162.

RESULTS

We found that circ_0068162 was overexpressed in the cytoplasm of OSCC cells and clinical OSCC tissues. Knockdown of circ_0068162 inhibited the growth, migration and invasion of OSCC cells. We also identified miR-186 as the target miRNA of circ_0068162, and JAG1 and JAG2 as the target genes of miR-186. The miR-186 inhibitor rescued the effects of sh-circ_0068162 and JAG1/JAG2 overexpression rescued the effects of miR-186 mimic in OSCC cells. Furthermore, ESRP1 promoted the biosynthesis of circ_0068162.

CONCLUSIONS

The circ_0068162/miR-186/JAGs/ESRP1 feedback loop is closely related to OSCC development.

Systematic Analysis to Identify the MIR99AHG-has-miR-21-5p-EHD1 CeRNA Regulatory Network as Potential Biomarkers in Lung Cancer

Lung cancer (LC) remains an extremely lethal disease worldwide, and effective prognostic biomarkers are at top priority. With the rapid development of high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatic analysis methods, the quest to characterize cancer transcriptomes continues to move forward. However, the integrated systematic analysis of lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA regulatory network in LC is lacking. In this study, we collected samples of cancer tissues and adjacent normal tissues from patients with lung cancer and conducted transcriptome and small RNA sequencing to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs), miRNAs (DEMs), and lncRNAs (DELs). The regulatory roles of miRNAs in LC were explained by functional analysis on DEM-targeted genes. The lncRNA-miRNA pairs, miRNA-mRNA pairs, and lncRNA-mRNA pairs were identified and combined to construct the interplay of lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA. We evaluated the prognostic value of selected lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA by Kaplan-Meier analysis. Finally, we analyzed the expression levels of selected DEM, DELs, and DEGs in lung cancer patients and healthy people to verify our findings. A total of 1492 DEGs, 12 DEMs, and 604 DELs were identified in LC patients. Based on the bioinformatic analysis and the regulatory mechanism of ceRNAs, 3 lncRNAs (GATA2-AS1, LINC00632, MIR99AHG), 1 miRNA (hsa-miR-21-5p) and 5 targeted genes (RECK, TIMP3, EHD1, RASGRP1 and ERG) were figured out first. Through further Kaplan-Meier analysis screening the prognostic value, we finally found the hub subnetwork (MIR99AHG-hsa-miR-21-5p-EHD1) by collating lncRNA-miRNA pairs, miRNA-mRNA pairs and lncRNA-mRNA pairs. As the key of ceRNA regulatory network, the expression of miRNA-21-5p in lung cancer patients was significantly higher than that in healthy people (P < 0.01), and its high expression was significantly associated with poor prognosis (P = 0.0025). Our study successfully constructed a MIR99AHG-hsa-miR-21-5p-EHD1 mutually regulatory network, suggesting the potential efficient biomarkers in LC.

The ncRNA-TGF-β axis: Unveiling new frontiers in colorectal cancer research

Colorectal cancer (CRC) poses a substantial global challenge, necessitating a deeper understanding of the molecular underpinnings governing its onset and progression. The transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) network has been a well-recognized cornerstone in advancing CRC. Nevertheless, a recent study has highlighted the growing importance of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in this context. This comprehensive review aims to present an extensive examination of the interaction between ncRNAs and TGF-signaling. Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), encompassing circular RNAs (circRNAs), long-ncRNAs (lncRNAs), and microRNAs (miRNAs), have surfaced as pivotal modulators governing various aspects of TGF-β signaling. MiRNAs have been discovered to target elements within the TGF-β signaling, either enhancing or inhibiting signaling, depending on the context. LncRNAs have been associated with CRC progression, functioning as miRNA sponges or directly influencing TGF-β pathway elements. Even circRNAs, a relatively recent addition to the ncRNA family, have impacted CRC, affecting TGF-β signaling through diverse mechanisms. This review encompasses recent progress in comprehending specific ncRNAs involved in TGF-β signaling, their functional roles, and their clinical relevance in CRC. We investigate the possibility of ncRNAs as targets for detection, prognosis, and therapy. Additionally, we explore the interaction of TGF-β and other pathways in CRC and the role of ncRNAs within this intricate network. As we unveil the intricate regulatory function of ncRNAs in the TGF-β signaling in CRC, we gain valuable insights into the disease's pathogenesis. Incorporating these discoveries into clinical settings holds promise for more precise diagnosis, prognosis, and targeted therapeutic approaches, ultimately enhancing the care of CRC patients. This comprehensive review underscores the ever-evolving landscape of ncRNA research in CRC and the potential for novel interventions in the battle against this formidable disease.

LncRNA LBX2-AS1 inhibits acute myeloid leukemia progression through miR-455-5p/MYLIP axis

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a common blood cancer primarily affecting the bone marrow and blood cells, which is prevalent among adults. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been shown to play a crucial role in the development and progression of AML. LBX2-AS1 is a recently discovered lncRNA that has been linked to the pathogenesis and progression of several types of cancer. This study aimed to investigate the role and possible mechanisms of LBX2-AS1 in AML. Expression levels of LBX2-AS1, miR-455-5p, and their target genes were detected in AML samples and cells by RT-qPCR. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were determined by Cell Counting Kit-8 and 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine assays, and flow cytometry, respectively. LBX2-AS1 was downregulated in AML specimens and cells, and overexpression of LBX2-AS1 significantly inhibited cell proliferation and enhanced apoptosis in vitro. We also determined the effects of LBX2-AS1 overexpression in an AML mouse model by in vivo bioluminescence imaging. Mechanistically, LBX2-AS1 acts as a competitive endogenous RNA, which promotes myosin regulatory light chain interacting protein (MYLIP) expression by sponging miR-455-5p. Knockdown of MYLIP or upregulation of miR-455-5p antagonized the effect of LBX2-AS1 overexpression on the progression of AML. LBX2-AS1 may thus be a valuable therapeutic target for AML.

The miR-146b-3p/TNFAIP2 axis regulates cell differentiation in acute myeloid leukaemia

Our purpose is to verify that miR-146b-3p targets the downstream transcript TNFAIP2 in order to reveal the machinery underlying the miR-146b-3p/TNFAIP2 axis regulating acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) differentiation. Bioinformatics analyses were performed using multiple databases and R packages. The CD11b+ and CD14+ cell frequencies were detected using flow cytometry and immunofluorescence staining. The TNFAIP2 protein expression was evaluated using western blotting, immunocytochemistry and immunofluorescence staining. The qRT-PCR was conducted to detect the expression of TNFAIP2 and miR-146b-3p. TNFAIP2 and its correlated genes were enriched in multiple cell differentiation pathways. TNFAIP2 was upregulated upon leukaemic cell differentiation. miR-146b-3p directly targeted TNFAIP2, resulting in a decrease in TNFAIP2 expression. Forced expression of TNFAIP2 or knockdown of miR-146b-3p significantly induced the differentiation of MOLM-13 cells. In this study, we demonstrated that TNFAIP2 is a critical driver in inducing differentiation and that the miR-146b-3p/TNFAIP2 axis involves in regulating cell differentiation in AML.

circCPA4 induces malignant behaviors of prostate cancer via miR-491-5p/SHOC2 feedback loop

OBJECTIVE

circCPA4 has been defined to be an oncogenic gene. This study examined whether circCPA4 regulates Prostate Cancer (PC) development and revealed its molecular mechanism.

METHODS

PC tissues and PC cell lines were collected, in which circCPA4/miR-491-5p/SHOC2 levels were evaluated by RT-qPCR and immunoblot. Colony formation assay and EdU assay assessed cell proliferation, flow cytometry measured apoptosis, and Transwell assessed invasion and migration. Ki-67, cleaved caspase-3, E-cadherin, and N-cadherin were evaluated by immunoblot. Based on the luciferase reporter assay and RIP assay the authors investigated the targeting relationship between circCPA4/miR-491-5p/SHOC2. The effect of circCPA4 on tumor growth was evaluated by xenotransplantation in nude mice.

RESULTS

circCPA4 and SHOC2 levels were abundant while miR-491-5p expression was low in PC. Loss of circCPA4 decreased the proliferation and EdU-positive rate of PC cells, enhanced apoptosis, and inhibited invasion, migration, and EMT. Upregulation of circCPA4 forced the malignant behaviors of PC cells, and this promotion could be abolished when miR-491-5p was overexpressed or SHOC2 was silenced. CircCAP4 competitively decoyed miR-491-5p mediating SHOC2 expression. circCAP4 suppression inhibited PC tumor growth.

CONCLUSION

circCAP4 acts as a novel oncogenic factor in PC, accelerating the malignant behavior of PC cells via miR-491-5p/SHOC2 interaction. This novel ceRNA axis may be a potential target for PC drug development and targeted therapy in the future.

Astaxanthin Alleviates the Process of Cardiac Hypertrophy by Targeting the METTL3/Circ_0078450/MiR-338-3p/GATA4 Pathway

Astaxanthin (ASX) is a natural antioxidant with preventive and therapeutic effects on various human diseases. However, the role of ASX in cardiac hypertrophy and its underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear.Cardiomyocytes (AC16) were used with angiotensin-II (Ang-II) to mimic the cardiac hypertrophy cell model. The protein levels of hypertrophy genes, GATA4, and methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3) were determined by western blot analysis. Cell size was assessed using immunofluorescence staining. The expression of circ_0078450, miR-338-3p, and GATA4 were analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR. Also, the interaction between miR-338-3p and circ_0078450 or GATA4 was confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter and RIP assays, and the regulation of METTL3 on circ_0078450 was verified by MeRIP and RIP assays.ASX reduced the hypertrophy gene protein expression and cell size in Ang-II-induced AC16 cells. Circ_0078450 was promoted under Ang-II treatment, and ASX reduced circ_0078450 expression in Ang-II-induced AC16 cells. Circ_0078450 could sponge miR-338-3p to positively regulate GATA4 expression, and GATA4 overexpression overturned the suppressive effect of circ_0078450 knockdown on Ang-II-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. Also, the inhibitory effect of ASX on Ang-II-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy could be reversed by circ_0078450 or GATA4 overexpression. In addition, METTL3 mediated the m6A methylation of circ_0078450 to enhance circ_0078450 expression. Moreover, METTL3 knockdown suppressed Ang-II-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy by inhibiting circ_0078450 expression.Our data showed that ASX repressed cardiac hypertrophy by regulating the METTL3/circ_0078450/miR-338-3p/GATA4 axis.

miR-26b-5p Affects the Progression of Acute Myeloid Leukemia by Regulating the USP48-Mediated Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a highly heterogeneous disease. Exploring the pathogenesis of AML is still an important topic in the treatment of AML. The expression levels of miR-26b-5p and USP48 were measured by qRT-PCR. The expression levels of related proteins were detected by Western blot. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were detected by CCK-8 and flow cytometry, respectively. Coimmunoprecipitation was used to examine the interaction between USP48 and Wnt5a. Bioinformatics analysis showed that high levels of miR-26b-5p and low levels of USP48 were associated with poor prognosis in AML. miR-26b-5p can negatively regulate the expression of USP48. Downregulation of miR-26b-5p inhibited EMT, cell viability and proliferation of AML cells and accelerated apoptosis. Furthermore, the influence of miR-26b-5p inhibition and USP48 knockdown on AML progression could be reversed by a Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway inhibitor. This study revealed that miR-26b-5p regulates AML progression, possibly by targeting the USP48-mediated Wnt/β-catenin molecular axis to affect AML cell biological behavior.

The Role of Long Noncoding RNAs in Progression of Leukemia: Based on Chromosomal Location

Long non-coding RNA [LncRNA] dysregulation has been seen in many human cancers, including several kinds of leukemia, which is still a fatal disease with a poor prognosis. LncRNAs have been demonstrated to function as tumor suppressors or oncogenes in leukemia. This study covers current research findings on the role of lncRNAs in the prognosis and diagnosis of leukemia. Based on recent results, several lncRNAs are emerging as biomarkers for the prognosis, diagnosis, and even treatment outcome prediction of leukemia and have been shown to play critical roles in controlling leukemia cell activities, such as proliferation, cell death, metastasis, and drug resistance. As a result, lncRNA profiles may have superior predictive and diagnostic potential in leukemia. Accordingly, this review concentrates on the significance of lncRNAs in leukemia progression based on their chromosomal position.

Circ_0001602 aggravates the progression of acute myeloid leukemia by regulating the miR-192-5p/ZBTB20 axis

BACKGROUND

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a malignant blood cancer with a poor prognosis and complex pathogenesis. Recently, the critical role of circular RNAs (circRNAs) has been demonstrated in the malignant progression of AML. This study aimed to investigate the functional role and underlying mechanism of circ_0001602 in AML development.

METHODS

Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) assay was conducted for detecting the expression of circ_0001602, CCND3, microRNA-192-5p (miR-192-5p), and Zinc Finger and BTB Domain-Containing Protein 20 (ZBTB20) mRNA. RNase R assay and Actinomycin D assay were implemented to determine the characteristics of circ_0001602. Cell counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay was performed to evaluate cell proliferation. Flow cytometry was employed for assessing cell cycle distribution and apoptosis. Dual-luciferase reporter assay and RIP assay were utilized for confirming the interactions between miR-192-5p and circ_0001602 or ZBTB20.

RESULTS

Circ_0001602 and ZBTB20 were upregulated and miR-192-5p level was reduced in AML tissues and cells. Depletion of circ_0001602 repressed cell proliferation and induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in AML cells. Functionally, circ_0001602 was identified to be the sponge of miR-192-5p, and miR-192-5p silence restored the suppressive effects of circ_0001602 knockdown on AML cell progression. Furthermore, ZBTB20 was a target of miR-192-5p, and ZBTB20 overexpression neutralized the miR-192-5p-mediated inhibiting actions on the malignant phenotypes of AML cells. Besides, circ_0001602 could sponge miR-192-5p to positively regulate ZBTB20 expression.

CONCLUSION

Circ_0001602 contributed to AML cell development at least partially through modulating the miR-192-5p/ZBTB20 axis, which provided new insights for AML treatment.

PIK3CD correlates with prognosis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition and tumor immune infiltration in breast carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Breast carcinoma (BRCA) is one of the most common, fatal, and aggressive cancers, with increasing morbidity that has a major impact on human health. PIK3CD appears to have important roles in the beginning and advancement of various forms of human cancer, according to mounting data. However,the particular role and mechanism of PIK3CD in BRCA remains not fully identified.

METHODOLOGY

The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA, https://portal.gdc.cancer.gov/ ), Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) data and the UCSC Xena browser ( https://xenabrowser.net ) data were used in this study's initial pan-cancer analysis of PIK3CD expression and prognosis. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) that regulated the expression of PIK3CD were subsequently found using a combination of in silico investigations of expression, correlation, and survival. Measurements of PIK3CD expression and an analysis of the in vitro function of PIK3CD in BRCA cells were performed using real-time RT-PCR, Western blotting and Transwell assays.

RESULTS

In BRCA GLI2, RAB32, LAMB1, MGAT2, ITGA8, CHF, COL6A3 and PRRX1-miR-30b-5p axis was identified as the most likely upstream CircRNA-related route of PIK3CD. PIK3CD was correlated with the expression of EMT markers. The PIK3CD cDNA improved the capacity for invasion and migration. The expression of PIK3CD was linked to some of the m1A/m5C/m6A regulators. Additionally, it was discovered that the expression of PIK3CD was found to be highly connected to the expression of immunological checkpoints, immune cell biomarkers, and tumor immune cell invasion.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings reveal that PIK3CD expression is associated with prognosis, EMT, and tumor immune infiltration in BRCA patients.

Combination of multiple omics techniques for a personalized therapy or treatment selection

Despite targeted therapies and immunotherapies have revolutionized the treatment of cancer patients, only a limited number of patients have long-term responses. Moreover, due to differences within cancer patients in the tumor mutational burden, composition of the tumor microenvironment as well as of the peripheral immune system and microbiome, and in the development of immune escape mechanisms, there is no "one fit all" therapy. Thus, the treatment of patients must be personalized based on the specific molecular, immunologic and/or metabolic landscape of their tumor. In order to identify for each patient the best possible therapy, different approaches should be employed and combined. These include (i) the use of predictive biomarkers identified on large cohorts of patients with the same tumor type and (ii) the evaluation of the individual tumor with "omics"-based analyses as well as its ex vivo characterization for susceptibility to different therapies.

A comprehensive landscape of transcription profiles and data resources for human leukemia

As a heterogeneous group of hematologic malignancies, leukemia has been widely studied at the transcriptome level. However, a comprehensive transcriptomic landscape and resources for different leukemia subtypes are lacking. Thus, in this study, we integrated the RNA sequencing data sets of >3000 samples from 14 leukemia subtypes and 53 related cell lines via a unified analysis pipeline. We depicted the corresponding transcriptomic landscape and developed a user-friendly data portal LeukemiaDB. LeukemiaDB was designed with 5 main modules: protein-coding gene, long noncoding RNA (lncRNA), circular RNA, alternative splicing, and fusion gene modules. In LeukemiaDB, users can search and browse the expression level, regulatory modules, and molecular information across leukemia subtypes or cell lines. In addition, a comprehensive analysis of data in LeukemiaDB demonstrates that (1) different leukemia subtypes or cell lines have similar expression distribution of the protein-coding gene and lncRNA; (2) some alternative splicing events are shared among nearly all leukemia subtypes, for example, MYL6 in A3SS, MYB in A5SS, HMBS in retained intron, GTPBP10 in mutually exclusive exons, and POLL in skipped exon; (3) some leukemia-specific protein-coding genes, for example, ABCA6, ARHGAP44, WNT3, and BLACE, and fusion genes, for example, BCR-ABL1 and KMT2A-AFF1 are involved in leukemogenesis; (4) some highly correlated regulatory modules were also identified in different leukemia subtypes, for example, the HOXA9 module in acute myeloid leukemia and the NOTCH1 module in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. In summary, the developed LeukemiaDB provides valuable insights into oncogenesis and progression of leukemia and, to the best of our knowledge, is the most comprehensive transcriptome resource of human leukemia available to the research community.

miRNA, lncRNA and circRNA: targeted molecules with therapeutic promises in Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection

Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) is primarily recognized as a respiratory pathogen that causes community-acquired pneumonia, which can lead to acute upper and lower airway inflammation and extrapulmonary syndrome. Refractory pneumonia caused by MP can cause severe complications and even be life-threatening, particularly in infants and the elderly. It is well-known that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) represented by miRNAs, lncRNAs and circRNAs have been manifested to be widely involved in the regulation of gene expression. Growing evidence indicates that these ncRNAs have distinct differentiated expression in MP infection and affect multiple biological processes, playing an indispensable role in the initiation and promotion of MP infection. However, the epigenetic mechanisms involved in the development of MP infection remain unclear. This article reviews the mechanisms by which miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs mediate MP infection, such as inflammatory responses, apoptosis and pulmonary fibrosis. Focusing on miRNAs, lncRNAs and circRNAs associated with MP infection could provide new insights into this disease's early diagnosis and therapeutic approaches.

Expression of circ-PHC3 enhances ovarian cancer progression via regulation of the miR-497-5p/SOX9 pathway

BACKGROUND

Accumulating studies have reported indispensable functions of circular RNAs (circRNA) in tumor progression through regulation of gene expression. However, circRNA expression profiles and functions in human ovarian carcinoma (OC) are yet to be fully established.

METHODS

In this research, deep sequencing of circRNAs from OC samples and paired adjacent normal tissues was performed to establish expression profiles and circ-PHC3 levels between the groups further compared using RT-qPCR. The effects of ectopic overexpression of miR-497-5p and SOX9 and siRNA-mediated knockdown of circ-PHC3 and an miR-497-5p inhibitor were explored to clarify the regulatory mechanisms underlying circ-PHC3 activity in OC proliferation and metastasis. Information from public databases and the luciferase reporter assay were further utilized to examine the potential correlations among circ-PHC3, miR-497-5p and SOX9.

RESULTS

Our results showed significant upregulation of circ-PHC3 in both OC cell lines and tissues. In the luciferase reporter assay, downregulation of circ-PHC3 led to suppression of metastasis and proliferation, potentially through targeted effects on the miR-497-5p/SOX9 axis in OC. SOX9 overexpression or miR-497-5p suppression rescued OC cell proliferation and invasion following silencing of circ-PHC3. Moreover, SOX9 inhibition induced restoration of OC cell invasion and proliferation under conditions of overexpression of miR-497-5p. Thus, circ-PHC3 appears to exert effects on cancer stem cell differentiation through regulation of the miR-497-5p/SOX9 axis.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, our findings suggest that circ-PHC3 enhances OC progression through functioning as an miR-497-5p sponge to promote SOX9 expression, supporting its potential as a promising candidate target for OC therapy.

The diagnostic potential of a circRNA-miRNA network in non-small cell lung cancer

Increasing studies demonstrate the significant contributions of circRNA-related competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) regulatory networks to tumorigenesis and cancer progression. Here, we aimed to construct a non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)-specific circRNA-miRNA network and evaluate its diagnostic potential in NSCLC. MiRNA deep sequencing was performed to screen differentially-expressed serum miRNAs in NSCLC. Four bioinformatics databases (TargetScan, miRanda, starBase, and RNAhybrid) were used to analyze the integrated circRNA-miRNA interaction network. The circRNA-miRNA network, including hsa-miR-4482-3p, hsa-miR-146a-3p, hsa_circ_0008167 and hsa_circ_0003317 was constructed based on their interactions and preliminary testing in NSCLC cells. The relative levels of the selected non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) were quantified using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) in the healthy, pneumonia, benign lung tumor and NSCLC cohorts. The diagnostic power of the circRNA-miRNA network was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses. The serum levels of hsa-miR-4482-3p, hsa-miR-146a-3p, hsa_circ_0008167, and hsa_circ_0003317 were dysregulated in NSCLC. The combination of the four ncRNAs showed the highest diagnostic value to discriminate between benign lung tumors and NSCLC. Additionally, the upregulated levels of hsa_circ_0008167 were correlated to more aggressive features of NSCLC, such as lymph node metastasis, distant metastasis, and higher stage. Furthermore, the combination of hsa_circ_0008167 + hsa-miR-4482-3p, and hsa_circ_0008167 + hsa-miR-4482-3p + hsa-miR-146a-3p had the greatest diagnostic power to differentiate between lymph node +/- metastases and higher/lower stages, respectively, compared to circRNAs or miRNAs alone, and traditional tumor markers. In conclusion, we identified a specific circRNA-miRNA network with higher sensitivity and specificity to diagnose NSCLC, thereby providing a new strategy for further development of ceRNA-related tumor markers in other cancers. KEY MESSAGES: Serum miR-4482-3p, miR-146a-3p, circ_0008167 and circ_0003317 are dysregulated in NSCLC. Higher levels of serum circ_0008167 are associated with more malignant NSCLC. Multiple combinations of circRNAs and miRNAs show higher value to diagnose NSCLC.

A therapeutic role of exosomal lncRNA H19 from adipose mesenchymal stem cells in cutaneous wound healing by triggering macrophage M2 polarization

BACKGROUND

Emerging evidence has figured out that adipose mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) promote wound healing. Exosomes, which act as main paracrine factors and contains various protein, lncRNA, and miRNAs, play a critical role in wound healing. Nevertheless, the mechanism remains to be elucidated. This study aims to identify the underlying mechanism of ADSCs-derived exosome (ADSCs-exos)-mediated wound healing.

METHODS

ADSCs-exos were characterized using the transmission electron microscope, dynamic light scattering, and western blot. ELISA, RT-qPCR, flow cytometry, western blot, CCK-8 assay, transwell assay and tube formation were employed to validate the actions of ADSCs-exos harboring H19 in cell polarization, proliferation, migration and angiogenesis. The regulatory axis among H19, miR-130b-3p and PPARγ or STAT3 was confirmed by RNA pull-down, RIP assay and dual-luciferase reporter assays.

RESULTS

ADSCs-exos harboring H19 promoted macrophage M2 polarization, thereby enhancing fibroblast proliferation, migration and endothelial cell angiogenesis. However, their promotive effects were disrupted within H19 depletion in ADSCs-exos. Additionally, miR-130b-3p, directly targeting PPARγ or STAT3, was identified to be a downstream effector to participate in H19-mediated biological effects. Moreover, ADSCs-exos carrying H19 modulated cutaneous wound healing via H19/miR-130b-3p -mediated macrophage M2 polarization in vivo.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, ADSCs-derived exosomal H19 accelerates cutaneous wound healing via the miR-130b-3p/PPARγ/STAT3 axis, indicating potential therapeutic strategies for the treatment of wound healing.

Hsa_circ_0003602 Contributes to the Progression of Colorectal Cancer by Mediating the miR-149-5p/SLC38A1 Axis

Background/Aims

We aimed to investigate the role and working mechanism of Homo sapiens circular RNA_0003602 (hsa_circ_0003602) in colorectal cancer (CRC) development.

Methods

The expression of circ_0003602, miR-149-5p, and solute carrier family 38 member 1 (SLC38A1) was detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. RNase R assays were conducted to determine the characteristics of circ_0003602. CCK-8 assays, flow cytometry analysis, transwell invasion assays, wound healing assays and tube formation assays were employed to evaluate cell viability, apoptosis, invasion, migration, and angiogenesis. All protein levels were examined by Western blot or immunohistochemistry assay. The glutamine metabolism was monitored by corresponding glutamine, α-ketoglutarate and glutamate assay kits. Dual-luciferase reporter assay was utilized to confirm the targeted combination between miR-149-5p and circ_0003602 or SLC38A1. A xenograft tumor model was established to analyze the role of circ_0003602 in CRC tumor growth in vivo.

Results

Circ_0003602 was upregulated in CRC tissues and cell lines. Circ_0003602 silencing suppressed CRC cell viability, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, and glutaminolysis; induced cell apoptosis in vitro; and blocked tumor growth in vivo. Moreover, circ_0003602 directly interacted with miR-149-5p to negatively regulate its expression, and circ_0003602 knockdown suppressed the malignant behaviors of CRC cells largely by upregulating miR-149-5p. MiR-149-5p directly bound to the 3' untranslated region of SLC38A1 to induce its degradation, and miR-149-5p overexpression reduced the malignant potential of CRC cells largely by downregulating SLC38A1. Circ_0003602 positively regulated SLC38A1 expression by sponging miR-149-5p in CRC cells.

Conclusions

Circ_0003602 knockdown impedes CRC development by targeting the miR-149-5p/SLC38A1 axis, which provides a novel theoretical basis and new insights for CRC treatment.

Circ_0035381 Regulates Acute Myeloid Leukemia Development by Modulating YWHAZ Expression via Adsorbing miR-582-3p

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a common hematopoietic disorder. Many circular RNAs (circRNAs) are abnormally expressed in AML, including hsa_circ_0035381 (circ_0035381). Nevertheless, the function and mechanism of circ_0035381 in AML remain mostly unclear. Expression of circ_0035381 was determined by qRT-PCR. The impacts of circ_0035381 on AML cell proliferation, apoptosis, and mitochondrial damage were validated via performing loss-of-function experiments. Targeting relationship was predicted by bioinformatics analysis and verified via dual-luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation assays. Circ_0035381 was upregulated in AML bone marrow samples and cells. Circ_0035381 downregulation decreased AML cell growth in nude mice and restrained AML cell proliferation and contributed to AML apoptosis and mitochondrial damage in vitro. Circ_0035381 acted as a miR-582-3p sponge, and miR-582-3p downregulation mitigated the impacts of circ_0035381 interference on AML cell proliferation, apoptosis, and mitochondrial damage. MiR-582-3p targeted Tyrosine3-monooxygenase/tryptophan5-monooxygenase activation protein zeta (YWHAZ), and it restrained AML cell proliferation and facilitated AML cell apoptosis and mitochondrial damage by decreasing YWHAZ expression. Notably, circ_0035381 regulated YWHAZ expression via miR-582-3p. Circ_0035381 knockdown repressed cell proliferation and promoted cell apoptosis and mitochondrial damage via regulating the miR-582-3p/YWHAZ axis in AML.

Advances in targeting of miR‑10‑associated lncRNAs/circRNAs for the management of cancer (Review)

With advancements in sequencing technologies, an increasing number of aberrantly expressed long-non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been identified in various types of cancer. lncRNAs and circRNAs are now well-established tumor-influencing factors in cancer, driving not only tumor proliferation and invasion, but also cancer progression, drug resistance and metastatic recurrence. The majority of lncRNAs and circRNAs influence cancer progression by targeting microRNAs (miRNAs/miRs). miR-10a and miR-10b, key members of the miR-10 family, have been shown to play important regulatory roles in cell proliferation, differentiation to cancer progression, and development. Manual evaluation and grouping according to different types of competing endogenous RNA and tumor was performed. The review outlined the current state of knowledge on the regulation of miR-10 family-related lncRNAs and circRNAs. The involvement of lncRNAs and circRNAs in the biogenesis, maturation and function of malignant tumors through the miR-10 family, and the key gene targets and signaling cascades that lncRNAs and circRNAs regulate through the miR-10 family were summarized. Based on the findings of this review, it can be hypothesized that lncRNAs and circRNAs targeting the miR-10 family may serve as diagnostic/prognostic markers and/or therapeutic targets for the management of cancer.

Identification of Potentially Functional Circular RNA/Long Noncoding RNA-MicroRNA-mRNA Regulatory Networks Associated with Vascular Injury in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus by Integrated Microarray Analysis

This research is aimed at figuring out the potential circular RNA (circRNA)/long noncoding RNA- (lncRNA-) microRNA- (miRNA-) mRNA regulatory networks associated with a vascular injury in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) screened in T2DM-related expression datasets were intersected with genes associated with vascular injury in T2DM to obtain candidate DEGs, followed by the construction of an interaction network of DEGs. The upstream miRNAs of candidate genes were predicted by mirDIP, miRWalk, and DIANA TOOLS databases, and the upstream lncRNAs/circRNAs of miRNAs by DIANA-LncBase/circBank database, followed by the construction of circRNA/lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA regulatory networks. Peripheral blood was attained from T2DM patients with macroangiopathy for clinical validation of expression and correlation of key factors. Differential analysis screened 37 candidate DEGs correlated with vascular injury in T2DM. Besides, MAPK3 was a core gene associated with vascular injury in T2DM. Among the predicted upstream miRNAs of MAPK3, miR-4270, miR-92a-2-5p, miR-423-5p, and miR-613 ranked at the top according to binding scores. The upstream lncRNAs and circRNAs of the 4 miRNAs were further predicted, obtaining 11 candidate lncRNAs and 3 candidate circRNAs. Moreover, KCNQ1OT1, circ_0020316, and MAPK3 were upregulated, but miR-92a-2-5p was downregulated in the peripheral blood of T2DM patients with macroangiopathy. Mechanistically, KCNQ1OT1 and circ_0020316 bound to miR-92a-2-5p that inversely targeted MAPK3. Collectively, KCNQ1OT1/circ_0020316-miR-92a-2-5p-MAPK3 coexpression regulatory networks might promote vascular injury in T2DM.

Circular RNAs: pivotal role in the leukemogenesis and novel indicators for the diagnosis and prognosis of acute myeloid leukemia

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive hematological malignancy and affected patients have poor overall survival (OS) rates. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a novel class of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) with a unique loop structure. In recent years, with the development of high-throughput RNA sequencing, many circRNAs have been identified exhibiting either up-regulation or down-regulation in AML patients compared with healthy controls. Recent studies have reported that circRNAs regulate leukemia cell proliferation, stemness, and apoptosis, both positively and negatively. Additionally, circRNAs could be promising biomarkers and therapeutic targets in AML. In this study, we present a comprehensive review of the regulatory roles and potentials of a number of dysregulated circRNAs in AML.

Mechanism of Action of Decitabine in the Treatment of Acute Myeloid Leukemia by Regulating LINC00599

Objective

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous malignancy with a low long-term survival rate. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of decitabine (DAC) treatment cell proliferation and apoptosis in AML and role of the expression of LINC00599 and, consequently, miR-135a-5p.

Materials and Methods

Human promyelocytic leukemia cells (HL-60) and human acute lymphatic leukemia (CCRF-CEM) cells were treated with various concentrations of DAC. Cell proliferation in each group was detected using the cell counting kit 8. For each group, apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were detected using flow cytometry. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was performed to examine the expression of lncRNA LINC00599. The expression of apoptosis-related proteins was analyzed using western blotting. The regulatory relationship between miR-135a-5p and LINC00599 was verified by constructing miR-135a-5p mimics, miR-135a-5p inhibit, wild type LINC00599 3'-untranslated region (UTR), and mutant LINC00599 3'-UTR. Ki-67 expression in the tumor tissues of nude mice was detected using immunofluorescent assays.

Results

Both DAC and LINC00599 Inhibit groups were able to significantly reduce the proliferation of HL60 and CCRF-CEM cells, increase apoptosis, upregulate the expression of Bad, cleaved caspase-3, and miR-135a-5p, downregulate the expression of Bcl-2, and elevate ROS levels in cells, with these effects being more pronounced after combined treatment with DAC and LINC00599 Inhibit. In comparison to mimic NC, the miR-135a-5p mimic group significantly decreased the relative fluorescence activity ratio of LINC00599 3'-UTR wild-type CCRF-CEM cells. The LINC00599 Inhibit and miR-135a-5p mimic groups exhibited substantially reduced proliferation of HL60 and CCRF-CEM cells, increased apoptosis, upregulated Bad, cleaved caspase-3, and miR-135a-5p expression, along with downregulated Bcl-2 and LINC00599 expression and increased ROS levels in cells; these effects were more pronounced after LINC00599 Inhibit was combined with miR-135a-5p mimics. In vivo experiments revealed that both DAC and LINC00599 Inhibit were able to considerably reduce the long diameter, short meridian, volume, and mass of tumors, increase miR-135a-5p expression, and decrease LINC00599 and ki-67 expression in tumor tissues of nude mice. This effect was more pronounced when the DAC and LINC00599 Inhibit were used in combination.

Conclusion

DAC regulates the expression of miR-135a-5p by regulating the expression of LINC00599, which in turn affects cell proliferation, apoptosis, and tumor proliferation. Our findings provide a theoretical basis for improving the clinical outcome of AML.

The Circular RNA Circ-ANAPC7 as a Biomarker for the Risk Stratification of Myelodysplastic Syndrome

To assess the diagnostic value of circ-ANAPC7 expression levels in MDS and its risk stratification. This is a retrospective observational study. This study enrolled 125 patients diagnosed with MDS and divided them into five groups according to IPSS-R (very high group, 25; high group, 25; intermediate group, 25; low group, 25; and very low group, 25), and 25 patients with IDA were studied as control group from our bone marrow cell bank. Bone marrow cell were used as material in this study to measure the expression level of circ-ANAPC7 by qRT-PCR. An evaluation of diagnostic value was conducted using ROC curves. Circ-ANAPC7 expression levels were 5.623 ± 4.483, 28.396 ± 12.938, 91.867 ± 37.010, 202.525 ± 54.911, 337.633 ± 86.013, and 502.269 ± 98.410 from the control group to the very high group, respectively (p < 0.05). Circ-ANAPC7 expression was gradually upregulated with the risk stratification of MDS. The AUCs of circ-ANAPC7 were 0.973, 0.996, 0.951, 0.920, and 0.907 in the control group/very low group, very low group/low group, low group/intermediate group, intermediate group/high group, and high group/very high group, respectively. In this study, the expression level of circ-ANAPC7 was found to be a promising biomarker for MDS. It may be added to the scoring system to better identify risk groups.

A multi-omics machine learning framework in predicting the recurrence and metastasis of patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma

Local recurrence and distant metastasis are the main causes of death in patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Microbial content in PDAC metastasis is still not well-characterized. Here, the tissue microbiome was comprehensively compared between metastatic and non-metastatic PDAC patients. We found that the pancreatic tissue microbiome of metastatic patients was significantly different from that of non-metastatic patients. Further, 10 potential bacterial biomarkers (Kurthia, Gulbenkiania, Acetobacterium and Planctomyces etc.) were identified by differential analysis. Meanwhile, significant differences in expression patterns across multiple omics (lncRNA, miRNA, and mRNA) of PDAC patients were found. The highest accuracy was achieved when these 10 bacterial biomarkers were used as features to predict recurrence or metastasis in PDAC patients, with an AUC of 0.815. Finally, the recurrence and metastasis in PDAC patients were associated with reduced survival and this association was potentially driven by the 10 biomarkers we identified. Our studies highlight the association between the tissue microbiome and recurrence or metastasis of pancreatic adenocarcioma patients, as well as the survival of patients.

Deregulated Expression of Circular RNAs Is Associated with Immune Evasion and Leukemia Relapse after Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

BACKGROUND

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a novel class of epigenetic regulators that participate in leukemogenesis. However, their roles in leukemia relapse after transplantation remain unclear.

METHODS

We defined the circRNAs profile of the bone-marrow-enriched CD34⁺ cells from ten acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients after transplantation (five relapse [RE] and five continuous complete remission [CR]) and four healthy controls (HCs) by RNA-seq. Differentially expressed circRNAs were validated using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) in an independent cohort of six AML patients with pairwise samples at diagnosis and at relapse and six controls.

RESULTS

The bioinformatics analysis revealed a distinct circRNAs profile in relapse patients compared with controls (CR or HCs), while there was no significant difference between CR and HCs. Functional enrichment analysis demonstrated that mRNAs co-expressed with identified circRNAs were primarily involved in immune-related pathways, including the T cell receptor signaling pathway and lymphocyte differentiation. Moreover, we performed a protein-protein interaction network based on the immune-related genes and annotated 20 hub genes. The abnormal expression of hub genes was responsible for impairing T cell co-stimulation and activation, thus contributing to the immune escape of relapse blasts. We further constructed competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNA) regulatory networks based on immune-related genes and identified 10 key circRNAs that are associated with immune evasion. Six candidate circRNAs and their associated miRNA/mRNAs in the ceRNA network were randomly selected to be validated in another set by RT-qPCR.

CONCLUSIONS

CircRNAs dysregulation may be involved in the immune evasion of relapse blasts and is associated with AML relapse. Our results identify several promising biomarkers and might provide novel insights into the biology of AML relapse post-transplantation.

Integrated Tissue and Blood miRNA Expression Profiles Identify Novel Biomarkers for Accurate Non-Invasive Diagnosis of Breast Cancer: Preliminary Results and Future Clinical Implications

We aimed to identify miRNAs that were closely related to breast cancer (BRCA). By integrating several methods including significance analysis of microarrays, fold change, Pearson’s correlation analysis, t test, and receiver operating characteristic analysis, we developed a decision-tree-based scoring algorithm, called Optimized Scoring Mechanism for Primary Synergy MicroRNAs (O-PSM). Five synergy miRNAs (hsa-miR-139-5p, hsa-miR-331-3p, hsa-miR-342-5p, hsa-miR-486-5p, and hsa-miR-654-3p) were identified using O-PSM, which were used to distinguish normal samples from pathological ones, and showed good results in blood data and in multiple sets of tissue data. These five miRNAs showed accurate categorization efficiency in BRCA typing and staging and had better categorization efficiency than experimentally verified miRNAs. In the Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI) network, the target genes of hsa-miR-342-5p have the most regulatory relationships, which regulate carcinogenesis proliferation and metastasis by regulating Glycosaminoglycan biosynthesis and the Rap1 signaling pathway. Moreover, hsa-miR-342-5p showed potential clinical application in survival analysis. We also used O-PSM to generate an R package uploaded on github (SuFei-lab/OPSM accessed on 22 October 2021). We believe that miRNAs included in O-PSM could have clinical implications for diagnosis, prognostic stratification and treatment of BRCA, proposing potential significant biomarkers that could be utilized to design personalized treatment plans in BRCA patients in the future.

Transcription Profiling of a Revealed the Potential Molecular Mechanism of Governor Vessel Electroacupuncture for Spinal Cord Injury in Rats

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) by transcriptome analysis to elucidate a potential mechanism by which governor vessel electroacupuncture (GV-EA) promotes neuronal survival, axonal regeneration, and functional recovery after complete transection spinal cord injury (SCI).

METHODS

Sham, control, or GV-EA group adult female Sprague Dawley rats underwent a complete transection SCI protocol. SCI area RNA-seq investigated the DEGs of coding and noncoding RNAs 7 days post-SCI. Gene ontology (GO) and kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses were used to classify DEGs functions, to explain a possible molecular mechanism. Immunofluorescence and BBB (Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan) score were used to verify a GV-EA treatment effect following SCI.

RESULTS

GV-EA treatment could regulate the expression of 173 mRNA, 260 lncRNA, and 153 circRNA genes among these DEGs resulted by SCI. GO enrichment analysis showed that the DEGs were most enriched in membrane, actin binding, and regulation of Toll-like receptor signaling pathway. KEGG pathway analysis showed enriched pathways (e.g. , Toll-like receptors, MAPK, Hippo signaling). According to the ceRNA network, miR-144-3p played a regulatory role by interacting with lncRNA and circRNA. GV-EA also promoted the injured spinal cord neuron survival, axonal regeneration, and functional improvement of hind limb locomotion.

CONCLUSION

Results of our RNA-seq suggest that post-SCI GV-EA may regulate characteristic changes in transcriptome gene expression, potential critical genes, and signaling pathways, providing clear directions for further investigation into the mechanism of GV-EA in subacute SCI treatment. Moreover, we found that GV-EA promotes neuronal survival, nerve fiber extension, and motor function recovery in subacute SCI.

Oncogenic roles of LINC01234 in various forms of human cancer

Abnormal expression of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) plays an essential role in various malignant neoplasia. As a newly identified lncRNA, LINC01234 is abnormally expressed in several types of cancers and promotes the development of cancers. Accumulating evidence indicates that overexpression of LINC01234 is associated with poor clinical outcomes. Moreover, LINC01234 modulates many cellular events as a putative proto-oncogene, including proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis, cell cycle progression, and EMT. In terms of molecular mechanism, LINC01234 regulates gene expression by acting as ceRNA, participating in signaling pathways, interacting with proteins and other molecules, and encoding polypeptide. It reveals that LINC01234 may serve as a potential biomarker for cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. This review summarizes the expression pattern, biological function, and molecular mechanism of LINC01234 in human cancer and discusses its potential clinical utility.

Overexpression miR-520a-3p inhibits acute myeloid leukemia progression via targeting MUC1

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miR-520a-3p is downregulated and MUC1 is upregulated in AML patients.

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miR-520a-3p over-expression inhibits AML cell proliferation, accelerates apoptosis, and inhibits AML tumor growth.

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miR-520a-3p targets MUC1 and negatively regulates its expression.

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MUC1 knockdown supresses AML cell proliferation and promotes apoptosis.

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miR-520a-3p overexpression inhibits AML cell proliferation and accelerates cell apoptosis via regulating MUC1/Wnt/β-catenin axis.

Background

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is one of the familiar malignant tumors in the hematological system. miR-520a-3p is reported to be involved in several cancers’ progression. However, miR-520a-3p role in AML remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to clarify the role and potential mechanism of miR-520a-3p in AML.

Methods

Cell viability, proliferation, cycle and apoptosis were detected by MTT assay, colony formation assay, flow cytometry, respectively. The levels of PNCA, Bcl-2, Cleaved caspase 3, Cleaved caspase 9 and β-catenin protein were detected by Western blot. Dual-luciferase reported assay was performed to detect the regulation between miR-520a-3p and MUC1. To verify the effect of miR-520a-3p on tumor proliferation in vivo, a non-homogenous transplant model of tumors was established.

Results

miR-520a-3p expression was down-regulated, and MUC1 expression was up-regulated in AML patients. miR-520a-3p overexpression suppressed THP-1 cell proliferation, induced cell cycle G0/G1 inhibition and promoted apoptosis. miR-520a-3p targeted MUC1 and negatively regulated its expression. MUC1 knockdown inhibited THP-1 cell proliferation and promoted apoptosis. miR-520a-3p overexpression inhibited AML tumors growth.

Conclusion

Overexpression miR-520a-3p inhibited AML cell proliferation, and promoted apoptosis via inhibiting MUC1 expression and repressing Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation.