MicroRNA-223-3p Regulates Ovarian Cancer Cell Proliferation and Invasion by Targeting SOX11 Expression

Diagnostic value of plasma-derived exosomal miR-223 for epithelial ovarian cancer

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the diagnostic value of plasma exosomal miR-223 and its combination with CA125 for the diagnosis of early-stage epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Exosomes derived from the plasma of 78 EOC patients, 40 patients with epithelial benign ovarian tumors, and 52 healthy participants were isolated using the ultracentrifugation method and identified by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and western blot.

RESULTS

The expression of exosomal miR-223 was significantly upregulated in the plasma of EOC patients compared to that in healthy subjects and patients with benign diseases. The combination of exosomal miR-223 and CA125 from plasma had an equivalent area under the ROC curve (AUC) to CA125 alone for discriminating between EOC and non-EOC cases, including healthy subjects and benign ovarian tumors. However, the AUC value of the combination was 0.944 (95% CI: 0.899-0.990) for differentially diagnosing early-stage EOC from healthy subjects, slightly higher than that of CA125 alone (0.928, 95% CI: 0.875-0.981), with a sensitivity and specificity of 0.9784 and 0.885, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that plasma exosomal miR-223 can be used as a complement to CA125 to increase the diagnostic power for differentiating early-stage EOC from healthy subjects.

microRNA transcriptome analysis of granulosa cells predicts that the Notch and insulin pathways affect follicular development in chickens

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been documented to play critical roles in chicken reproduction. Granulosa cell (GC) development of the follicle is closely related to hierarchical follicle ordering, making it an important factor in determining laying performance. Thus, it is meaningful to mine follicular development-related miRNAs. To identify regulatory miRNAs and the biological mechanisms by which they control follicular development, we conducted small RNA sequencing of GCs isolated from prehierarchical follicles named small yellow follicle (SYFG), the smallest hierarchical follicle (F6G), and the largest hierarchical follicle (F1G). A total of 99, 196, and 110 differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) were identified in SYFG.vs.F6G, SYFG.vs.F1G, and F6G.vs.F1G, respectively. Of these, 22 miRNAs, including miR-223, miR-103a, miR-449c-3p, and miR-203a, were ubiquitously identified as DEMs in three stages. Target gene prediction suggested that these miRNAs are associated with the MAPK, TGF-β, and Wnt signaling pathways, which are all associated with follicular development. The Notch and insulin signaling pathways were commonly enriched in all three comparisons. RT-qPCR analysis further indicated that the expression levels of PSEN2, which encodes an essential factor regulating Notch and insulin signaling, was significantly changed in SYFG, F6G, and F1G. The current study provides basic data and offers a new foundation for further exploration of the roles of miRNAs in follicular development in chickens.

SOX11 and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Metastatic Serous Ovarian Cancer

BACKGROUND

Ovarian cancer is the leading cause of death from gynecological malignancies, with serous carcinoma being the most common histopathologic subtype. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) correlates with increased metastatic potential, whereas the transcription factor SRY-box transcription factor 11 (SOX11) is overexpressed in diverse malignancies.

METHODS

In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the potential role of the immunohistochemical expression of SOX11 in 30 serous ovarian carcinomas in association with E-cadherin and vimentin expression as well as with patients' clinicopathological data.

RESULTS

Most of the examined cases showed concurrent expression of E-cadherin and vimentin, whereas SOX11 was expressed in a minority of the cases (26.7%). Interestingly, the positive cases more frequently had a metastatic disease at the time of diagnosis compared with the negative cases (p = 0.09), an association, however, of marginal significance. Moreover, there was a negative correlation between E-cadherin and SOX11 expression (p = 0.0077) and a positive correlation between vimentin and SOX11 expression (p = 0.0130).

CONCLUSIONS

The present work, for the first time, provides preliminary evidence of a possible implication of SOX11 overexpression in the promotion of EMT in metastatic serous ovarian cancer, thereby endorsing tumor metastasis.

MicroRNA, mRNA, and Proteomics Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets for Improving Lung Cancer Treatment Outcomes

The majority of lung cancer patients are diagnosed with metastatic disease. This study identified a set of 73 microRNAs (miRNAs) that classified lung cancer tumors from normal lung tissues with an overall accuracy of 96.3% in the training patient cohort (n = 109) and 91.7% in unsupervised classification and 92.3% in supervised classification in the validation set (n = 375). Based on association with patient survival (n = 1016), 10 miRNAs were identified as potential tumor suppressors (hsa-miR-144, hsa-miR-195, hsa-miR-223, hsa-miR-30a, hsa-miR-30b, hsa-miR-30d, hsa-miR-335, hsa-miR-363, hsa-miR-451, and hsa-miR-99a), and 4 were identified as potential oncogenes (hsa-miR-21, hsa-miR-31, hsa-miR-411, and hsa-miR-494) in lung cancer. Experimentally confirmed target genes were identified for the 73 diagnostic miRNAs, from which proliferation genes were selected from CRISPR-Cas9/RNA interference (RNAi) screening assays. Pansensitive and panresistant genes to 21 NCCN-recommended drugs with concordant mRNA and protein expression were identified. DGKE and WDR47 were found with significant associations with responses to both systemic therapies and radiotherapy in lung cancer. Based on our identified miRNA-regulated molecular machinery, an inhibitor of PDK1/Akt BX-912, an anthracycline antibiotic daunorubicin, and a multi-targeted protein kinase inhibitor midostaurin were discovered as potential repositioning drugs for treating lung cancer. These findings have implications for improving lung cancer diagnosis, optimizing treatment selection, and discovering new drug options for better patient outcomes.

CircBNC2 affects epithelial ovarian cancer progression through the miR-223-3p/ LARP4 axis

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is one of the most serious cancer. Circular RNA BNC2 (circBNC2) expression was decreased in EOC tissues. However, the molecular mechanism of circBNC2 remains unknown. The expression of circBNC2, microRNA-223-3p (miR-223-3p), and La-related proteins 4 ( LARP4 ) were detected by quantitative real-time fluorescence PCR (qRT-PCR). A series of in-vitro experiments were designed to explore the function of circBNC2 in EOC cells and the regulatory mechanism between circBNC2 and miR-223-3p and LARP4 in EOC cells. Western blot examined the protein levels of Snail1, Slug, and LARP4 . The relationship between miR-223-3p and circBNC2 or LARP4 was verified by Dual-luciferase reporter assays. The xenotransplantation model was established to study the role of circBNC2 in vivo . The expression of circBNC2 and LARP4 was decreased in EOC tissues, while the expression of miR-223-3p was increased. CircBNC2 can sponge miR-223-3p, and LARP4 is the target of miR-223-3p. In-vitro complement experiments showed that overexpression of circBNC2 significantly decreased the malignant behavior of EOC, while co-transfection of miR-223-3p mimics partially upregulated this change. In addition, LARP4 knockdown increased the proliferation, migration, and invasion of EOC cells inhibited by miR-223-3p inhibitor. Mechanically, circBNC2 regulates LARP4 expression in EOC cells by spongy miR-223-3p. In addition, in-vivo studies have shown that overexpression of circBNC2 inhibits tumor growth. Overexpression of circBNC2 decreased proliferation, migration, and invasion of EOC cells by regulating the miR-223-3p/ LARP4 axis, suggesting that circBNC2/miR-223-3p/ LARP4 axis may be a potential regulatory mechanism for the treatment of EOC.

Target Selection for T-Cell Therapy in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer: Systematic Prioritization of Self-Antigens

Adoptive T cell-receptor therapy (ACT) could represent a promising approach in the targeted treatment of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). However, the identification of suitable tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) as targets is challenging. We identified and prioritized TAAs for ACT and other immunotherapeutic interventions in EOC. A comprehensive list of pre-described TAAs was created and candidates were prioritized, using predefined weighted criteria. Highly ranked TAAs were immunohistochemically stained in a tissue microarray of 58 EOC samples to identify associations of TAA expression with grade, stage, response to platinum, and prognosis. Preselection based on expression data resulted in 38 TAAs, which were prioritized. Along with already published Cyclin A1, the TAAs KIF20A, CT45, and LY6K emerged as most promising targets, with high expression in EOC samples and several identified peptides in ligandome analysis. Expression of these TAAs showed prognostic relevance independent of molecular subtypes. By using a systematic vetting algorithm, we identified KIF20A, CT45, and LY6K to be promising candidates for immunotherapy in EOC. Results are supported by IHC and HLA-ligandome data. The described method might be helpful for the prioritization of TAAs in other tumor entities.

Curcuminoids Modulated the IL-6/JAK/STAT3 Signaling Pathway in LoVo and HT-29 Colorectal Cancer Cells

BACKGROUND

Curcuminoids, including curcumin, desmethoxycurcumin, and bisdesmethoxycurcumin, are natural polyphenolic compounds that exhibit various biological properties, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities. Dysregulation of the interleukin (IL)-6-mediated Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (JAK/STAT3) signaling pathway is closely associated with the development of colorectal cancer (CRC).

METHODS

Here, we have evaluated the modulation of the IL-6/JAK/STAT3 pathway of curcumin, desmethoxycurcumin, and bisdesmethoxycurcumin in LoVo and HT-29 colorectal cancer cells with a single molecular array (Simoa), western blot analysis, real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and pathway analysis system.

RESULTS

The study showed that curcuminoids suppressed the amount of IL-6 in LoVo and HT-29 colorectal cancer cells. Meanwhile, curcuminoids inhibited the expression of inflammation regulator-related microRNA (miRNA). We also found that the expression of total STAT3 was downregulated by curcuminoids. Moreover, the pathway analysis system showed that curcuminoids inactivated the JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway. Taken together, we demonstrated that the anti-cancer activities of curcuminoids against colorectal cancer are due to the modulation of the IL-6/JAK/STAT3 cascade.

CONCLUSION

Curcuminoids could be a promising anti-cancer agent for the treatment of human colorectal cancer.

miRNA-223-3p regulates ECT2 to promote proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of gastric cancer through the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway

PURPOSE

Expression of the guanine nucleotide exchange factor epithelial cell transforming 2 (ECT2) is elevated in gastric cancer (GC) but its biological function in GC is poorly understood. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have great potential as therapeutic targets for GC through their ability to modulate gene expression. In the present study, we sought to identify potential miRNA-mRNA-protein regulatory pathways that might control ECT2 expression and function in GC.

METHODS

ECT2 expression was examined in clinical GC specimens by immunohistochemical staining, and protein levels were correlated with clinicopathological features and prognosis. TargetScan was used to identify potential ECT2 mRNA-complementary miRNAs, and the roles of ECT2 and miRNA-223-3p (miR-223-3p) in GC cell biology and signaling pathway activation were examined by targeted knockdown (KD) or overexpression (OE) of ECT2 and miR-223-3p in GC cell lines. A murine GC xenograft model was developed to explore the impact of ECT2 OE on tumor growth in vivo.

RESULTS

ECT2 expression was significantly elevated in GC specimens compared with normal gastric tissues and the level correlated positively with depth of invasion, ulceration, vascular tumor thrombus, neural invasion, and lymph node metastasis (p < 0.05). ECT2 was an independent prognostic factor for overall survival of GC patients (high ECT2 expression v.s. low ECT2 expression: χ² = 29.831, p < 0.001). ECT2 KD or miR-223-3p OE markedly suppressed the proliferation, migration, and invasion of GC cells in vitro, whereas ECT2 OE had the opposite effects. ECT2 OE also promoted the growth of GC tumors in vivo. Tumor expression of Wnt2, β-catenin, and several downstream target proteins in GC cells were decreased by ECT2 KD or miR-223-3p OE but increased by ECT2 OE.

CONCLUSIONS

miR-223-3p regulates ECT2 expression to promote tumorigenic behavior of GC via activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, suggesting that ECT2 and miR-223-3p as potential therapeutic targets for GC.

Circular RNA circ-BNC2 (hsa_circ_0008732) inhibits the progression of ovarian cancer through microRNA-223-3p/ FBXW7 axis

Background

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are reported to be key regulators in the progression of human cancers. This work focuses on the function and molecular mechanism of circRNA-BNC2 (circ-BNC2) (also known as hsa_circ_0008732) in ovarian cancer (OC).

Methods

Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was conducted to detect circ-BNC2, microRNA-223-3p (miR-223-3p) and F-box and WD repeat domain containing 7 (FBXW7) mRNA expressions in OC tissues and cells. Besides, cell counting kit 8 (CCK-8), transwell assay and cell cycle assays were executed to assess the proliferative, migrative, invasive abilities, and cell cycle progression of OC cells, respectively. Dual-luciferase reporter gene assay and RNA pull-down assay were used to validate the targeting relationships between miR-223-3p and circ-BNC2 or FBXW7. Western blot was adopted to determine FBXW7 protein levels in OC cells.

Results

Circ-BNC2 expression was downregulated in OC tissues and cell lines, which was associated with higher FIGO stage and lymph node metastasis of OC patients. Circ-BNC2 overexpression repressed the proliferation, migration, invasion of OC cells and induced cell cycle arrest, while silencing circ-BNC2 worked oppositely. Mechanistically, circ-BNC2 could upregulate FBXW7 expression in OC cells via sponging miR-223-3p.

Conclusion

Circ-BNC2 suppresses the progression of OC via regulating miR-223-3p / FBXW7 axis. Our findings provided potential biomarker for OC therapy.

A comprehensive survey into the role of microRNAs in ovarian cancer chemoresistance; an updated overview

Ovarian cancer (OC), a frequent malignant tumor that affects women, is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death in this group of individuals. For the treatment of ovarian cancer, systemic chemotherapy with platinum-based drugs or taxanes is the first-line option. However, drug resistance developed over time during chemotherapy medications worsens the situation. Since uncertainty exists for the mechanism of chemotherapy resistance in ovarian cancer, there is a need to investigate and overcome this problem. miRNAs are engaged in various signaling pathways that contribute to the chemotherapeutic resistance of ovarian cancer. In the current study, we have tried to shed light on the mechanisms by which microRNAs contribute to the drug resistance of ovarian cancer and the use of some microRNAs to combat this chemoresistance, leading to the worse outcome of ovarian cancer patients treated with systemic chemotherapeutics.

MiR-223-3p alleviates trigeminal neuropathic pain in the male mouse by targeting MKNK2 and MAPK/ERK signaling

BACKGROUND

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a neuropathic pain that occurs in branches of the trigeminal nerve. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been considered key mediators of neuropathic pain. This study was aimed to elucidate the pathophysiological function and mechanisms of miR-223-3p in mouse models of TN.

METHODS

Infraorbital nerve chronic constriction injury (CCI-ION) was applied in male C57BL/6J mice to establish mouse models of TN. Pain responses were assessed utilizing Von Frey method. The expression of miR-223-3p, MKNK2, and MAPK/ERK pathway protein in trigeminal ganglions (TGs) of CCI-ION mice was measured using RT-qPCR and Western blotting. The concentrations of inflammatory cytokines were evaluated using Western blotting. The relationship between miR-223-3p and MKNK2 was tested by a luciferase reporter assay.

RESULTS

We found that miR-223-3p was downregulated, while MKNK2 was upregulated in TGs of CCI-ION mice. MiR-223-3p overexpression by an intracerebroventricular injection of Lv-miR-223-3p attenuated trigeminal neuropathic pain in CCI-ION mice, as well as reduced the protein levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in TGs of CCI-ION mice. MKNK2 was verified to be targeted by miR-223-3p. Additionally, miR-223-3p overexpression decreased the phosphorylation levels of ERK1/2, JNK, and p38 protein in TGs of CCI-ION mice to inhibit MAPK/ERK signaling.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, miR-223-3p attenuates the development of TN by targeting MKNK2 to suppress MAPK/ERK signaling.

miR-1273h-5p suppresses CXCL12 expression and inhibits gastric cancer cell invasion and metastasis

The aim of this study was to verify the biological function of miR-1273h-5p in gastric cancer (GC) and its underlying mechanisms. The differential expression of microRNAs between GC and tumor-adjacent normal tissues was detected using microarrays, miR-1273h-5p, and chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 12 (CXCL12) mRNA, and protein levels were evaluated using polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting methods, cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion were determined by CCK-8, flow cytometry, and transwell assay. Compared to tumor-adjacent normal tissue and gastric epithelial mucosa cell line cells, miR-1273h-5p was significantly downregulated in tissues and cells of GC. The overexpression of miR-1273h-5p could inhibit cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and promote cell apoptosis; in contrast, inhibition of miR-1273h-5p expression could reverse this process. Moreover, a significant upregulation of CXCL12 was observed when the miR-1273h-5p was downregulated in GC cells. Additionally, miR-1273h-5p significantly reduces tumor volume and weight. Thus, this study suggests that miR-1273h-5p regulates cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis during GC progression by directly binding to CXCL12 mRNA 3′-untranslational regions, which may be a novel diagnostic and therapeutic target in GC.

Association between Rheumatoid Arthritis Disease Activity and Risk of Ovarian Malignancy in Middle-Aged and Elderly Women

Objective

To investigate the risk of ovarian malignancy in middle-aged and elderly women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and its correlation with disease activity.

Methods

219 middle-aged and elderly (age ≥ 40) female RA patients who were treated at the Department of Rheumatology and Immunology of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine from August 2019 to September 2020 were selected. Their general information such as age and medical history was collected. RA disease activity-related indicators include rheumatoid factor (RF), anticyclic citrullinated peptide antibody (ACPA), ESR, CRP, and ovarian malignancy risk-related indicators including alpha fetoprotein (AFP), carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), CA125, CA199, and human epididymis protein 4 (HE4) were detected. According to Risk of Ovarian Malignancy Algorithm (ROMA), they were divided into a low-risk group (ROMA-low, premenopausal: ROMA ≤ 11.4%, postmenopausal: ROMA ≤ 29.9%) and a high-risk group (ROMA-high, premenopausal: ROMA > 11.4%, postmenopausal: ROMA > 29.9%) for ovarian malignancy. Meanwhile, according to the DAS28-ESR, they were divided into the general disease activity group (DAS28-ESR ≤ 5.1) and the high disease activity group (DAS28-ESR > 5.1). SPSS 25.0 software was used to compare the differences among groups and to analyze the correlation between ovarian malignancy risk and RA disease activity.

Results

Compared with the ROMA-low group, the levels of RF, ACCP, CDAI, SDAI, DAS28-ESR, and DAS28-CRP in the ROMA-high group were significantly increased (P < 0.05). HE4 and ROMA in the high disease activity group were significantly higher than general disease activity group (P < 0.05). Spearman correlation analysis showed that age (r = 0.472), RF (r = 0.221), ACPA (r = 0.156), CDAI (r = 0.226), SDAI (r = 0.221), DAS28-ESR (r = 0.254), DAS28-CRP (r = 0.208), medications (r = 0.189), and CA199 (r = 0.250) were correlated with ROMA (P < 0.05). Multivariate regression analysis showed that ESR (OR = 1.11), SDAI (OR = 1.02), DAS28-ESR (OR = 1.33), DAS28-CRP (OR = 1.26), and CA199 (OR = 1.03) were independent risk factors for high risk of ovarian malignancy (P < 0.05). Subgroup analysis showed that CA199 is an effect modification factor for DAS28-ESR (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The risk of ovarian malignancy is significantly increased in middle-aged and elderly women with high disease activity with rheumatoid arthritis. In clinical, full attention should be paid to the risk of ovarian malignancy in this population. Screening in time, especially in patients with increased DAS28-ESR and CA199 at the same time, is needed.

lncRNA GAS5 promotes pyroptosis in COPD by functioning as a ceRNA to regulate the miR‑223‑3p/NLRP3 axis

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by irreversible and progressive airflow limitation and encompasses a spectrum of diseases, including chronic obstructive bronchitis and emphysema. Pyroptosis is a unique form of inflammatory cell death mediated by the activation of caspase-1 and inflammasomes. The long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) growth arrest-specific 5 (GAS5) is a well-documented tumor suppressor, which is associated with cell proliferation and death in various diseases. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether lncRNA GAS5 is associated with the pyroptosis in COPD. To create a COPD cell model, MRC-5 cells were treated with 10 µg/ml lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for 48 h. Then the level of pro-caspase 1, caspase 1, IL-1β, IL-18, NLRP3 and cleaved gasdermin D (GSDMD) was examined by western blotting. GAS5 mRNA level was detected by qualitative PCR following LPS treatment in MRC-5 cells. Subsequently, IL-2, IL-6, IL-10 and TNF-α in MRC-5 cells was measured by ELISA. Then the proliferation ability of MRC-5 cells was detected by CCK-8. Cell death was detected by TUNEL assay. LDH release was measured using an LDH Cytotoxicity Assay kit. The Magna RIP kit was used to validate the interaction between GAS5 and miR-223-3p. The present study revealed that increased expression levels of caspase-1, IL-1β, IL-18 and cleaved GSDMD were observed in LPS-treated MRC-5 cells, indicating that pyroptosis is involved in COPD progression. Additionally, LPS induced the increase in GAS5 mRNA expression levels and the release of inflammatory factors (IL-2, IL-6, IL-10 and TNF-α), suggesting that GAS5 is implicated in pyroptosis in COPD. Furthermore, upregulation of GAS5 promoted cell death and inhibited proliferation in the MRC-5 cell line. Additionally, increased GAS5 expression significantly promoted the production of caspase-1, IL-1β, IL-18, cleaved GSDMD and NLR pyrin domain containing protein 3 (NLRP3). A dual-luciferase assay demonstrated that GAS5 could directly bind to microRNA-223-3p (miR-223-3p), and NLRP3 is a direct target of miR-223-3p. Furthermore, GAS5 reduced the expression levels of miR-223-3p, while it increased the expression levels of NLRP3. The present study concluded that lncRNA GAS5 promoted pyroptosis in COPD by targeting the miR-223-3p/NLRP3 axis, implying that GAS5 could be a potential target for COPD.

Relevance of miR-223 as Potential Diagnostic and Prognostic Markers in Cancer

In 1993, the discovery of microRNAs in Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) altered the paradigmatic view of RNA biology and post-transcriptional gene regulation. Further study revealed the role of microRNAs in disease development and progression. In particular, this review highlights microRNA-223 (miR-223 or miRNA-223) expression in malignant neoplastic disorders. miR-223 expression controls aspects of hematopoiesis and apoptosis, and cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. miR-223 regulates a number of gene targets, including cytoplasmic activation/proliferation-associated protein-1 (Caprin-1), insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R), and other cell proliferation- and cell cycle-associated genes. Several studies have proposed miR-223 as a novel biomarker for early cancer diagnosis. Here, we emphasize miR-223′s role in the development and progression of cancer.

MiR-937-3p promotes metastasis and angiogenesis and is activated by MYC in lung adenocarcinoma

Background

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is still one of the diseases with the highest mortality and morbidity, and lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) accounts for more than half of all NSCLC cases in most countries. miRNA can be used as a potential biological marker and treatment for lung adenocarcinoma. However, the effect of miR-937-3p to the invasion and metastasis of LUAD cells is not clear.

Methods

miRNA microarray is used to analyze the expression of miRNA in lung adenocarcinoma tissue. Transwell migration, Wound-healing assay and Western blot analysis are used to analyze cell migration, invasion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) capabilities. Tube formation is used to assess angiogenesis ability. In addition, dual luciferase reporter gene detection is used to identify the potential binding between miRNA and target mRNA. In vivo experiments were performed on male NOD/SCID nude mice by tail vein injection to establish a transplanted tumor model. The CHIP experiment is used to verify the transcription factors of miRNA.

Result

In our study, miR-937-3p was high-regulated in LUAD cell lines and tissues, and its expression level was related to tumor progression. We found that miR-937-3p high-expression has an effect on cell invasion and metastasis. In molecular mechanism, miR-937-3p causes SOX11 reduction by directly binding to the 3′-UTR of SOX11.In addition, MYC affects miR-937-3p transcription by binding to its promoter region.

Conclusions

Our research shows that miR-937-3p is mediated by MYC and can control the angiogenesis, invasion and metastasis of LUAD by regulating SOX11, thereby promoting the progress of LUAD. We speculate that miR-937-3p can be used as a therapeutic target and potential biomarker for LUAD.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12935-022-02453-w.

SOX9: Advances in Gynecological Malignancies

Transcription factors of the SOX family were first discovered in mammals in 1990. The sex-determining region Y box 9 belongs to the SOX transcription factor family. It plays an important role in inducing tissue and cell morphogenesis, survival, and many developmental processes. Furthermore, it has been shown to be an oncogene in many tumors. Gynecological malignancies are tumors that occur in the female reproductive system and seriously threaten the lives of patients. Common gynecological malignancies include ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, and endometrial cancer. So far, the molecular mechanisms related to the incidence and development of gynecological malignancies remain unclear. This makes it particularly important to discover their common causative molecule and thus provide an effective therapeutic target. In recent years, studies have found that multiple mechanisms are involved in regulating the expression of the sex-determining region Y box 9, leading to the occurrence and development of gynecological malignancies. In this review, we discuss the prognostic value of SOX9 expression and the potential of targeting SOX9 for gynecological malignancy treatment. We also discuss progress regarding the role of SOX9 in gynecological malignancy pathogenesis through its mediation of important mechanisms, including tumor initiation and proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion, chemoresistance, and stem cell maintenance.

Association between miR-212-3p and SOX11, and the effects of miR-212-3p on cell proliferation and migration in mantle cell lymphoma

To the best of our knowledge, the effect of miR-212-3p on sex-determining region Y-box 11 (SOX11) expression has not been previously investigated and how this effect affects cell proliferation and migration in lymphoma remains unclear. The present study aimed to assess the association between microRNA-212-3p (miR-212-3p) and SOX11, and the effects of miR-212-3p on cell proliferation and migration in mantle cell lymphoma. Cancer tissue and corresponding paracancerous tissue samples were collected from 65 patients with mantle cell lymphoma. The mRNA expression levels of miR-212-3p and SOX11 were analyzed using quantitative PCR, and SOX11 protein expression was determined using western blotting. Following transfection, the miR-212-3p mimic group exhibited a significantly lower SOX11 mRNA and protein expression than the miR-NC group. After 48–72 h of transfection, cell proliferation in the miR-212-3p mimic group was significantly lower than that in the miR-NC group. Furthermore, the miR-212-3p mimic group exhibited significantly lower cell invasion and significantly higher apoptosis than the miR-NC group. The current results suggested that miR-212-3p inhibited lymphoma cell proliferation and migration, and promoted their apoptosis by specifically regulating SOX11. Therefore, miR-212-3p may serve as a novel therapeutic target and marker for lymphoma.

Diagnostic value of oncofetal miRNAs in cancers: A comprehensive analysis of circulating miRNAs in pan-cancers and UCB

BACKGROUND

Circulating miRNAs are promising biomarkers for detection of various cancers. As a "developmental" disorder, cancer showed great similarities with embryos.

OBJECTIVE

A comprehensive analysis of circulating miRNAs in umbilical cord blood (UCB) and pan-cancers was conducted to identify circulating miRNAs with potential for cancer detection.

METHODS

A total of 3831 cancer samples (2050 serum samples from 15 types of cancers and 1781 plasma samples from 13 types of cancers) and 248 UCB samples (120 serum and 128 plasma samples) with corresponding NCs from Chinese populations were analyzed via consistent experiment workflow with Exiqon panel followed by multiple-stage validation with qRT-PCR.

RESULTS

Thirty-four serum and 32 plasma miRNAs were dysregulated in at least one type of cancer. Eighteen serum and 16 plasma miRNAs were related with embryos. Among them, 9 serum and 8 plasma miRNAs with consistent expression patterns between pan-cancers and UCB were identified as circulating oncofetal miRNAs. Retrospective analysis confirmed the diagnostic ability of circulating oncofetal miRNAs for specific cancers. And the oncofetal miRNAs were mainly up-regulated in tissues of pan-cancers.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study might serve as bases for the potential application of the non-invasive biomarkers in the future clinical.

Anti-apoptotic Effect of MiR-223-3p Suppressing PIK3C2A in Cardiomyocytes from Myocardial Infarction Rat Through Regulating PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathway

We aimed to explore the regulatory mechanism of the axis of miR-223-3p-PIK3C2A-PI3K/Akt on cardiomyocyte apoptosis in rats with myocardial infarction. Thirty 8-week-old healthy male SD rats were used for establishing the sham group and the model group, with HE staining, TUNEL staining, and TTC staining performed. After the identification of the targeting relationship between PIK3C2A and miR-223-3p, experimental rats were randomly divided into seven groups by plasmid transfection, including the Blank group, negative control (NC) group, miR-223-3p mimic group, miR-223-3p inhibitor group, siRNA-PIK3C2A group, oe-PIK3C2A group, and miR-223-3p inhibitor + oe-PIK3C2A group. Four weeks after transfection, the expression levels of miR-223-3p and PIK3C2A in tissues as well as PI3K, Akt, Bax, and bcl-2 mRNA in cells were detected by qRT-PCR and western blot, in combination with the detection of apoptosis rate by flow cytometry. Compared with the sham group, the model group showed typical myocardial injury and abnormal staining, higher apoptotic index, and larger myocardial infarction area (all P < 0.05). PIK3C2A was the target gene of miR-223-3p. The expression level of miR-223-3p in model group was significantly lower than that in sham group, while the mRNA and protein expression levels of PIK3C2A increased significantly (all P < 0.05). In cell tests, the expression level of miR-223-3p increased significantly in miR-223-3p mimic group (P < 0.05), which, however, showed no significant change in siRNA-PIK3C2A group (P > 0.05). MiR-223-3p inhibitor group and siRNA-PIK3C2A group had obviously increased PI3K, Akt, mTOR and Bcl-2 mRNA, and protein expression, while decreased mRNA and protein expression of PIK3C2A and Bax (all P < 0.05); miR-223-3p mimic groups had the opposite trends (all P < 0.05). siRNA-PIK3C2A + miR-223-3p mimic showed no obvious change relative to the control groups (all P > 0.05). Low expression of miR-223-3p may downregulate PIK3C2A expression, resulting in the inhibition of myocardial cell apoptosis in rats with myocardial infarction via the activation of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.

Whole Transcriptome Analysis: Implication to Estrous Cycle Regulation

Simple Summary

The databases of mRNA and non-coding-RNAs (miRNA, circRNA, lncRNA) in the ovary of Xinong Sannen goat were reported in this study. The differential expression of mRNA and non-coding RNAs were analyzed, and the comprehensive analysis of the four databases provided RNA networks that regulate estrous cycle, which is essential to improve reproduction.

Abstract

Estrous cycle is one of the placental mammal characteristics after sexual maturity, including estrus stage (ES) and diestrus stage (DS). Estrous cycle is important in female physiology and its disorder may lead to diseases, such as polycystic ovary syndrome, ovarian carcinoma, anxiety, and epilepsy. In the latest years, effects of non-coding RNAs and messenger RNA (mRNA) on estrous cycle have started to arouse much concern, however, a whole transcriptome analysis among non-coding RNAs and mRNA has not been reported. Here, we report a whole transcriptome analysis of goat ovary in estrus and diestrus periods. Estrus synchronization was conducted to induce the estrus phase and on day 32, the goats shifted into the diestrus stage. The ovary RNA of estrus and diestrus stages was respectively collected to perform RNA-sequencing. Then, the circular RNA (circRNA), microRNA (miRNA), long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), and mRNA databases of goat ovary were acquired, and the differential expressions between estrus and diestrus stages were screened to construct circRNA-miRNA-mRNA/lncRNA and lncRNA-miRNA/mRNA networks, thus providing potential pathways that are involved in the regulation of estrous cycle. Differentially expressed mRNAs, such as MMP9, TIMP1, 3BHSD, and PTGIS, and differentially expressed miRNAs that play key roles in the regulation of estrous cycle, such as miR-21-3p, miR-202-3p, and miR-223-3p, were extracted from the network. Our data provided the miRNA, circRNA, lncRNA, and mRNA databases of goat ovary and each differentially expressed profile between ES and DS. Networks among differentially expressed miRNAs, circRNAs, lncRNAs, and mRNAs were constructed to provide valuable resources for the study of estrous cycle and related diseases.

Regulatory effect of microRNA-223-3p on breast cancer cell processes via the Hippo/Yap signaling pathway

According to the 2018 global cancer statistics, the incidence and mortality rates of breast cancer are increasing gradually, which seriously threatens the health of women. MicroRNA-223-3p (miR-223-3p) can promote the proliferation and invasion of breast cancer cells. Hippo/Yes-related protein (Yap) signaling pathway activation has been found in a variety of tumors. The present study aimed to investigate the potential mechanism of miR-223-3p in breast cancer. The Cell Counting Kit-8 assay was used to detect cell viability and flow cytometry was used to detect apoptosis. The abilities of cell migration and invasion were detected using scratch and Transwell assays, as well as reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and western blotting to detect gene and protein expression, respectively. The current results demonstrated that miR-223-3p transcription levels were increased in breast cancer cells, and inhibition of miR-223-3p gene expression decreased cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Additionally, inhibition of miR-223-3p expression inhibited epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in breast cancer cells. miR-223-3p promoted cell proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT, and the western blotting results demonstrated that miR-223-3p inhibition increased the phosphorylation of Yap1 and the protein expression levels of large tumor suppressor kinase 1. In conclusion, results from the present results suggested that miR-223-3p may promote cell proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT through the Hippo/Yap signaling pathway. Therefore, miR-223-3p may be a potential biomarker for breast cancer.

Small Non-Coding-RNA in Gynecological Malignancies

Gynecologic malignancies, which include cancers of the cervix, ovary, uterus, vulva, vagina, and fallopian tube, are among the leading causes of female mortality worldwide, with the most prevalent being endometrial, ovarian, and cervical cancer. Gynecologic malignancies are complex, heterogeneous diseases, and despite extensive research efforts, the molecular mechanisms underlying their development and pathology remain largely unclear. Currently, mechanistic and therapeutic research in cancer is largely focused on protein targets that are encoded by about 1% of the human genome. Our current understanding of 99% of the genome, which includes noncoding RNA, is limited. The discovery of tens of thousands of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), possessing either structural or regulatory functions, has fundamentally altered our understanding of genetics, physiology, pathophysiology, and disease treatment as they relate to gynecologic malignancies. In recent years, it has become clear that ncRNAs are relatively stable, and can serve as biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and prognosis, as well as guide therapy choices. Here we discuss the role of small non-coding RNAs, i.e., microRNAs (miRs), P-Element induced wimpy testis interacting (PIWI) RNAs (piRNAs), and tRNA-derived small RNAs in gynecological malignancies, specifically focusing on ovarian, endometrial, and cervical cancer.

Exosomes derived from chronic lymphocytic leukaemia cells transfer miR-146a to induce the transition of mesenchymal stromal cells into cancer-associated fibroblasts

Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) is the most prevalent leukaemia and remains incurable. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can promote tumour progression by differentiating into cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). However, the mechanisms by which tumour cells induce the transition of MSCs to CAFs are still largely undefined. Exosomes can regulate recipient cellular function by mediating intracellular communication. This study aimed to investigate whether CLL cells regulate the transition of bone marrow-derived MSCs (BM-MSCs) to CAFs via exosomal miR-146a delivery. The exosomes were isolated from CLL cell line MEC-1 (CLL-Exo) and then co-cultured with BM-MSCs. The expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and fibroblast-activated protein (FAP) were determined by immunofluorescence, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot. A luciferase reporter assay was performed to verify whether ubiquitin-specific peptidase 16 (USP16) was a target of miR-146a. CLL-Exo treatment up-regulated miR-146a and down-regulated expression of CAF markers (α-SMA and FAP) and USP16. The inducing effect of CLL-Exo on CAF marker expression was compromised when miR-146a expression was inhibited in CLL-Exo. USP16 was confirmed as a direct target of miR-146a and USP16 overexpression in BM-MSCs abrogated the CLL-Exo-mediated up-regulation of CAF markers. Collectively, CLL-Exo delivered miR-146a into BM-MSCs where miR-146a mediated transition of BM-MSCs into CAFs by targeting USP16.

Genome-Wide Association Analyses of Fertility Traits in Beef Heifers

The ability of livestock to reproduce efficiently is critical to the sustainability of animal agriculture. Antral follicle count (AFC) and reproductive tract scores (RTS) can be used to estimate fertility in beef heifers, but the genetic mechanisms influencing variation in these measures are not well understood. Two genome-wide association studies (GWAS) were conducted to identify the significant loci associated with these traits. In total, 293 crossbred beef heifers were genotyped on the Bovine GGP 50K chip and genotypes were imputed to 836,121 markers. A GWAS was performed with the AFC phenotype for 217 heifers with a multi-locus mixed model, conducted using the year, age at time of sampling and principal component analysis groupings as the covariates. The RTS GWAS was performed with 289 heifers using an additive correlation/trend test comparing prepubertal to pubertal heifers. The loci on chromosomes 2, 3 and 23 were significant in the AFC GWAS and the loci on chromosomes 2, 8, 10 and 11 were significant in the RTS GWAS. The significant region on chromosome 2 was similar between both analyses. These regions contained genes associated with cell proliferation, transcription, apoptosis and development. This study proposes candidate genes for beef cattle fertility, although future research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms.

LncRNA RNF144A-AS1 Promotes Bladder Cancer Progression via RNF144A-AS1/miR-455-5p/SOX11 Axis

Background

Bladder cancer (BC) is the most commonly occurring malignant tumor of the urinary system worldwide. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), including lncRNA RNF144A-AS1 (RNF144A-AS1), perform an oncogenic role in BC progression. However, how RNF144A-AS1 is regulated in BC has not been fully investigated, and its role in BC is mostly obscure. In this study, we explore its role in BC progression.

Materials and Methods

The expression level of RNF144A-AS1 in BC tissues was explored via bioinformatics analysis and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). We used RNF144A-AS1 siRNA (si-RNF144A-AS1) to inhibit the RNF144A-AS1 level in BC cell lines (J82 and 5637 cells). A series of experimental studies in vitro (CCK-8 assay, colony formation assay and Transwell assay) was performed to explore the role of si-RNF144A-AS1 on the proliferation, migration and invasion of J82 and 5637 cells. A BC xenograft model was established, and the effect of si-RNF144A-AS1 on xenograft growth was explored in vivo. The interactions among RNF144A-AS1, miR-455-5p and SOX11 were predicted by bioinformatics miRanda and Targetscan database, and verified by the luciferase reporter assay and RNA pull-down assay. Finally, miR-455-5p inhibitor and si-RNF144A-AS1 were cotransfected into J82 and 5637 cells.

Results

RNF144A-AS1 is overexpressed in BC tumors and cells, and its overexpression is correlated with poor prognosis. Knockdown of RNF144A-AS1 markedly suppressed the proliferation, migration and invasion of J82 and 5637 cells and significantly inhibited xenograft growth in nude mice, compared to si-NC. We found that RNF144A-AS1 serves as a sponge for miR-455-5p. Furthermore, a binding site of miR-455-5p was found in 3ʹ UTR of SOX11 gene, and overexpression of miR-455-5p suppressed SOX11 levels. RNF144A-AS1 knockdown markedly decreased SOX11 expression levels, while miR-455-5p inhibitor restored this repressive effect. Restoration of SOX11 could reverse this repressive effect of RNF144A-AS1 on cell proliferation, migration and invasion abilities.

Conclusion

Overall, our findings underline the critical role of RNF144A-AS1 in BC development, and our study reveals for the first time that RNF144A-AS1 promotes BC progression via the RNF144A-AS1/miR-455-5p/SOX11 axis.

MiR-223-3p inhibits rTp17-induced inflammasome activation and pyroptosis by targeting NLRP3

The incidence of syphilis caused by Treponema pallidum subsp pallidum (T pallidum) infection is accompanied by inflammatory injuries of vascular endothelial cells. Studies have revealed that T pallidum infection could induce inflammasome activation and pyroptosis in macrophages. MicroRNA‐223‐3p (miR‐223‐3p) was reported to be a negative regulator in inflammatory diseases. The present study aimed to explore whether miR‐223‐3p regulates T pallidum‐induced inflammasome activation and pyroptosis in vascular endothelial cells, and determine the mechanisms which underlie this process. MiR‐223‐3p levels in syphilis and control samples were determined. The biological function of miR‐223‐3p in the NLRP3 inflammasome and pyroptosis was evaluated in T pallidum‐infected human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). We observed a dramatic decrease in miR‐223‐3p levels in syphilis patients (n = 20) when compared to healthy controls (n = 20). Moreover, miR‐223‐3p showed a notable inhibitory effect on recombinant Tp17 (rTP17)‐induced caspase‐1 activation, resulting in decrease in IL‐1β production and pyroptosis, which was accompanied by the release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in HUVECs. Additionally, the dual‐luciferase assay confirmed that NLRP3 is a direct target of miR‐223‐3p. Moreover, NLRP3 overexpression or knockdown largely blocked the effects of miR‐223‐3p on T pallidum‐induced inflammasome activation and pyroptosis in HUVECs. Most importantly, a notable negative correlation was observed between miR‐223‐3p and NLRP3, caspase‐1, and IL‐1β, respectively, in the serum of syphilis patients and healthy controls. Taken together, our results reveal that miR‐223‐3p targets NLRP3 to suppress inflammasome activation and pyroptosis in T pallidum‐infected endothelial cells, implying that miR‐223‐3p could be a potential target for syphilis patients.

Circulating and Tissue microRNAs as Biomarkers for Ovarian Cancer Prognosis

Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the most common cancers globally with a high rate of cancer- associated mortality. OC may be classified into epithelial cell neoplasms, germ cell neoplasms and stromal cell neoplasms. The five-year survival in the early and advanced stages of disease is approximately 90% and 15%, respectively. microRNAs are short, single-stranded, non-coding ribonucleic acid (RNA). miRNAs play critical roles in post transcriptionally regulations of gene expression. miRNAs are found in different tissues and body fluids. In carcinogenesis the expression of miRNAs are altered. Recent studies have revealed that there is a relationship between alteration of miRNAs expression and the prognosis of patients with OC. The aim of this review was to summarize the findings of recent studies that have investigated the expression of circulating and tissue miRNAs as novel biomarkers in the prognosis of OC.

Non-coding RNAs shuttled via exosomes reshape the hypoxic tumor microenvironment

Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles secreted by almost all the cells. Molecular cargos of exosomes can partially reflect the characteristics of originating cells. Exosome-mediated cell-to-cell interactions in the microenvironment are critical in cancer progression. Hypoxia, a key pro-cancerous feature of the tumor microenvironment, alters the releasing and contents of exosomes. A growing body of evidence shows that hypoxia induces more aggressive phenotypes in cancer. Of note, non-coding RNAs shuttled in hypoxic tumor-derived exosomes have been demonstrated as fundamental molecules in regulating cancer biology and remodeling tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, these hypoxic tumor-derived exosomal non-coding RNAs can be detected in the body fluids, serving as promising diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. The current review discusses changes in cancer behaviors regulated by exosomes-secreted non-coding RNAs under hypoxic conditions.

Long noncoding RNA GAS5 promotes microglial inflammatory response in Parkinson's disease by regulating NLRP3 pathway through sponging miR-223-3p

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder. Neuroinflammation induced by microglia plays an important role in the pathogenesis of PD. Long noncoding RNA GAS5 was showed to have significant effects on regulating inflammatory response. Here, we aim to investigate the effects of GAS5 on the inflammatory response of PD, and the underlying mechanism. An in vivo model of PD was established in C57BL/6 mice by rotenone and an in vitro cell model was conducted on microglia by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Our results indicated that GAS5 was upregulated in tissues in a mice model of PD and microglia activated by LPS. Gain- and loss- of functional experiments demonstrated that GAS5 promoted the inflammation of microglia in vitro. Besides, the knockdown of GAS5 repressed the PD progression in vivo. Mechanistically, GAS5 positively regulated the NLRP3 expression via competitively sponging miR-223-3p. Overall, our finding illuminates that GAS5 accelerates PD progression through targeting miR-223-3p/NLRP3 axis.

LINC00961 inhibits the migration and invasion of colon cancer cells by sponging miR-223-3p and targeting SOX11

Long noncoding RNAs play essential roles in colon cancer tumorigenesis. This study aimed to explore the potential function and molecular mechanisms of LINC00961 in colon cancer. qPCR results showed that LINC00961 was downregulated in colon cancer cells and tissues. Functional assays demonstrated that LINC00961 suppressed the migration and invasion of colon cancer cells in vitro. LINC00961 functioned as an endogenous sponge for miR-223-3p in colon cancer cells. SOX11 was confirmed as a target gene of miR-223-3p. The effect of miR-223-3p on colon cancer cells was then investigated. MiR-223-3p inhibition enhanced their migration and invasion. The effect of SOX11 on colon cancer cells was studied. SOX11 overexpression inhibited the invasion of colon cancer cells. LINC00961 acted as an anti-oncogene and upregulated SOX11 expression by functioning as a miR-223-3p sponge. This research revealed the molecular mechanism of LINC00961 in colon cancer. LINC00961 might act as a potential diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target for further clinical treatments.

A novel tumour suppressor lncRNA F630028O10Rik inhibits lung cancer angiogenesis by regulating miR-223-3p

Lung cancer is the world's leading cause of cancer‐related morbidity and mortality despite advances in surgery, chemotherapy and immunotherapy; thus, there is an urgent need to find new molecules to develop novel treatment strategies. Although ncRNAs were found to account for 98% transcripts, the number of lncRNAs with distinct function in lung cancer is extremely limited. We previously demonstrated that Plasmodium infection inhibits tumour growth and metastasis, but the exact mechanisms involved have not been fully understood. In this study, we carried out RNA sequencing (RNA‐Seq) of tumour tissues isolated from LLC tumour‐bearing mice treated with either Plasmodium yoelli (Py)‐infected red blood cells or uninfected red blood cells. We found that F630028O10Rik (abbreviated as F63) is a novel lncRNA that was significantly up‐regulated in tumours isolated from mice treated with Py‐infected red blood cells compared to the control. By using gene silencing technique, F63 was found to inhibit both tumour Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A (VEGFA) secretion and endothelial cells clone formation, migration, invasion and tube formation. Injection of cholesterol‐modified siRNA‐F63 into mice tumour tissues produced a significant increase in tumour volume, blood vessel formation and angiogenesis 17 days after injection. We further showed that inhibiting miR‐223‐3p results in the down‐regulation of VEGFA and VEGFR2 which are vital molecules for angiogenesis. These results reveal that F63 inhibit tumour growth and progression by modulating tumour angiogenesis suggesting F63 can be a novel lncRNA with great potential as a candidate molecule for gene therapy in lung cancer.

miRNA profile in ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer is a gynecological cancer with high mortality and a heterogeneous nature which complicates its early detection and primary prevention. Numerous studies have evaluated expression profile microRNAs (miRNAs) in tissue and serum samples of ovarian cancer patients to find appropriate biomarkers for this malignancy. Functional experiments also verified the oncogenic or suppressor effects of a number of miRNAs. miRNAs exert their role through degradation or inhibition of translation of the target mRNA. Through this regulatory function, they modulate numerous cellular processes which are ultimately associated with carcinogenesis. A number of miRNAs including miR-135a-3p, miR-200c, miR-216a and miR-340 regulate epithelial-mesenchymal transition program thus modulate invasiveness of ovarian cancer cell. Others have been shown to regulate some fundamental pathways in carcinogenesis such as mTOR and PI3K/AKT pathways. Such vast area of function of miRNAs in ovarian cancer has suggested them as putative therapeutic options for future years. In this review, we summarize the recent findings regarding the role of miRNAs in ovarian cancer pathogenesis, their application as biomarkers and the future perspectives of this research area.

Influence of MicroRNA-141 on Inhibition of the Proliferation of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Steroid-Induced Osteonecrosis via SOX11

Objective

To investigate whether miR‐141 and the sex determination region of Y chromosome box 11 (SOX11) play roles in steroid‐induced avascular necrosis of the femoral head (SANFH), and to explore whether miR‐141 could target SOX11 to influence the proliferation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSC).

Methods

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSC) were isolated and cultured from 4‐week‐old Sprague Dawley rats. A flow cytometry assay was performed to identify BMSC. BMSC were divided into two groups: a control group and a dexamethasone (DEX) group. BMSC were transfected by miR‐141 mimic, miR‐141 inhibitor, and SOX11. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay was performed to investigate the mRNA expression of miR‐141 and SOX11. The results were used to determine the effect of transfection and to verify the expression in each group and the association between miR‐141 and SOX11. Luciferase reporter assay revealed the targeted binding site between miR‐141 and the 3′‐untranslated region of SOX11 mRNA. MTT assays were performed to investigate the proliferation of BMSC in the miR‐141 mimic, miR‐141 inhibitor, and SOX11 groups.

Result

The results of the flow cytometry assay suggested that cells were positive for CD29 and CD90 while negative for CD45. This meant that the isolated and cultured cells were not hematopoietic stem cells. In addition, cell transfection was successful based on the expression of miR‐141 and SOX11. According to the results of real‐time PCR assay, the mRNA expression of miR‐141 in SANFH was upregulated (4.117 ± 0.042 vs 1 ± 0.027, P < 0.001), while SOX11 was downregulated (0.611 ± 0.055 vs 1 ± 0.027, P < 0.001) compared with the control group. Based on the results of the luciferase experiment, MiR‐141 could directly target the expression of SOX11. Inhibition of miR‐141 could upregulate the expression of SOX11 (2.623 ± 0.220 vs 1 ± 0.095, P < 0.001) according to the results of a real‐time PCR assay. MiR‐141 inhibited the proliferation of BMSC (0.618 ± 0.092 vs 1.004 ± 0.082, P < 0.001), while suppression of miR‐141 increased the proliferation of BMSC (0.960 ± 0.095 vs 0.742 ± 0.091, P < 0.001). Furthermore, according to the results of the MTT assay, SOX11 promoted the proliferation of BMSC (1.064 ± 0.093 vs 0.747 ± 0.090, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

MiR‐141 inhibited the proliferation of BMSC in SANFH by targeting SOX11. Inhibition of miR‐141 upregulated the expression of SOX11 and promoted the proliferation of BMSC. MiR‐141 and SOX11 could be new targets for investigating the mechanism of SANFH.

MiR-223 promotes oral squamous cell carcinoma proliferation and migration by regulating FBXW7

Abnormally expressed microRNAs (miRNAs) contribute widely to human cancer, including oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), by regulating their downstream targets. MiR-223 has been proved to be up-regulated in both gastric cancer and ovarian cancer. However, the effect of miR-223 on OSCC is still unclear. Here, we showed that miR-223 was over-expressed in OSCC tissues using qRT-PCR. Next, we investigated the biological mechanism of miR-223 in OSCC. The results demonstrated that miR-223 facilitated the cell proliferation and migration of OSCC using MTT assay and Transwell assay. Furthermore, we stated that the FBXW7 expression was decreased in OSCC and re-expression of FBXW7 inhibited the proliferation and migration of OSCC. In addition, FBXW7 mimic inversed the promotion effect of miR-223 in regulating of OSCC cells. In short, miR-223 promoted OSCC cell proliferation and migration by downregulating FBXW7, which provided a novel therapeutic strategy for OSCC.

Novel role of the SRY-related high-mobility-group box D gene in cancer

The SRY-related high-mobility-group box (Sox) gene family encodes a set of transcription factors and is defined by the presence of highly conserved domains. The Sox gene can be divided into 10 groups (A-J). The SoxD subpopulation consists of Sox5, Sox6, Sox13 and Sox23, which are involved in the transcriptional regulation of developmental processes, including embryonic development, nerve growth and cartilage formation. Recently, the SoxD gene family was recognized as important transcriptional regulators associated with many types of cancer. In addition, Sox5 and Sox6 are representatives of the D subfamily, and there are many related studies; however, there are few reports on Sox13 and Sox23. In this review, we first introduce the structures of the SoxD genes. Next, we summarize the latest research progress on SoxD in various types of cancer. Finally, we discuss the potential direction of future SoxD research. In general, the information reviewed here may contribute to future experimental design and increase the potential of SoxD as a cancer treatment target.

MiR-223-3p promotes the proliferation, invasion and migration of colon cancer cells by negative regulating PRDM1

Colon cancer is one of the most common malignancies worldwide, while the molecular mechanism remains largely unknown. miR-223-3p plays an important role in cancer development. Here, we found that miR-223-3p was up-regulated in 30 cases of colon cancer tissues as compared with their adjacent normal tissues. Lentivirus-mediated miR-223-3p over-expression promoted the proliferation, colony formation, migration and invasion of colon cancer cells. Inverse results were observed in miR-223-3p knockdown cells. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) was regulated by miR-223-3p. In addition, cell apoptosis was suppressed and enhanced by miR-223-3p over-expression and knockdown, respectively. We further identified PRDM1, a tumor suppressor, was the target of miR-223-3p using microarray and luciferase assay. Our findings suggested that miR-223-3p acts as an oncogenic microRNA in colon cancer through regulating EMT and PRDM1.

Transcription factors in SOX family: Potent regulators for cancer initiation and development in the human body

Transcription factors (TFs) have a key role in controlling the gene regulatory network that sustains explicit cell states in humans. However, an uncontrolled regulation of these genes potentially results in a wide range of diseases, including cancer. Genes of the SOX family are indeed crucial as deregulation of SOX family TFs can potentially lead to changes in cell fate as well as irregular cell growth. SOX TFs are a conserved group of transcriptional regulators that mediate DNA binding through a highly conserved high-mobility group (HMG) domain. Accumulating evidence demonstrates that cell fate and differentiation in major developmental processes are controlled by SOX TFs. Besides; numerous reports indicate that both up- and down-regulation of SOX TFs may induce cancer progression. In this review, we discuss the involvement of key TFs of SOX family in human cancers.

Identification of a six-miRNA panel in serum benefiting pancreatic cancer diagnosis

Pancreatic cancer (PC) has posed a great health threat to a growing number of people all over the world. Detection of serum miRNAs, being sensitive, noninvasive, and easy to obtain, has a great potential of being a novel screening method for PC patients. In this study, we investigated miRNA expression levels in serum by qRT-PCR. The study was divided into four phases: the screening, training, testing, and external validation stage. We firstly chose candidate miRNAs using Exiqon panels in the screening phase. Then, a total of 129 PC serum samples and 107 normal controls (NCs) were further analyzed in the following training and testing phases to identify differently expressed miRNAs. A cohort of 30 PC serum samples vs 30 NCs was used to confirm the diagnostic value of the identified miRNAs in the external validation phase. Moreover, miRNA expressions in additional 44 PC tumor tissue samples and the matched adjacent normal tissue samples as well as 32 pairs of serum-derived exosomes samples were also further explored. As a result, we identified six significantly upregulated miRNAs in the serum of PC: let-7b-5p, miR-192-5p, miR-19a-3p, miR-19b-3p, miR-223-3p, and miR-25-3p. A six-miRNA panel in serum was then established. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUC) for the panel was 0.910 for the combined training and testing phases, which showed higher diagnostic value than the individual miRNA. Prognostic value prediction using Cox's proportional hazards model and Kaplan-Meier curves showed that increased serum miR-19a-3p was closely related to worse overall survival (OS). In addition, significant upregulation of miR-192-5p, miR-19a-3p, and miR-19b-3p was observed in both PC tissue and serum-derived exosomes samples. In conclusion, we identified a six-miRNA (let-7b-5p, miR-192-5p, miR-19a-3p, miR-19b-3p, miR-223-3p, and miR-25-3p) panel in the serum for PC early and noninvasive diagnosis.

NLRP3 inflammasome inactivation driven by miR‑223‑3p reduces tumor growth and increases anticancer immunity in breast cancer

MicroRNA‑233‑3p (miR‑223‑3p) is considered an important cancer‑associated marker. The NACHT, LRR and PYD domains‑containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome represents a novel potential target for the treatment of breast cancer. Therefore, it was hypothesized that miR‑223‑3p may affect tumor growth and immunosuppression in breast cancer by inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome. In the present study, an increased expression level of NLRP3 was detected in three breast cancer cell lines compared with normal mammary epithelial cells (HMEC). Suppressing the expression of NLRP3 in MCF‑7 cell lines increased the apoptotic rate of breast cancer cells and reduced the proliferative capacity. NLRP3 was identified to be a direct target of miR‑233‑3p using a luciferase assay. In addition, miR‑233‑3p mimics inhibited the NLRP3‑dependent processes in cancer cells by suppressing the NLRP3 expression level and the protein expression levels of its downstream factors, including PYD and CARD domain containing protein, interleukin‑1β and interleukin‑18. In vivo experiments demonstrated the suppressive effect of miR‑233‑3p in tumor growth and immunosuppression. Collectively these findings suggested that the inactivation of the NLRP3 inflammasome driven by miR‑223‑3p reduced the growth and immunosuppression of breast cancer in vitro and in vivo, and may represent a novel therapeutic strategy in treating breast cancer.

Extracellular vesicle-associated miRNAs in ovarian cancer – design of an integrated NGS-based workflow for the identification of blood-based biomarkers for platinum-resistance

Background

Extracellular vesicle (EV)-associated microRNAs (miRNAs) have been suggested as promising biomarkers for blood-based cancer diagnosis. However, one of the major limitations for the use of EVs with diagnostic purpose is the lack of standardized EV-profiling techniques. In this regard, the objective of our study was to design an integrated next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based workflow for analyzing the signature of EV-associated miRNA in the plasma of platinum-resistant ovarian cancer patients.

Methods

For EV-extraction, different enrichment methods were compared (ExoQuick vs. exoRNeasy). NGS was performed with the Illumina platform.

Results

We established an integrated NGS-based workflow, including EV-enrichment with the ExoQuick system, which resulted in an optimal RNA-yield and consistent small RNA libraries. We applied this workflow in a pilot cohort of clinically documented platinum-sensitive (n=15) vs. platinum-resistant (n=15) ovarian cancer patients, resulting in a panel of mature EV-associated miRNAs (including ovarian cancer associated miR-181a, miR-1908, miR-21, miR-486 and miR-223), which were differentially abundant in the plasma of platinum-resistant patients.

Conclusions

This is the first study, analyzing the profile of EV-associated miRNAs in platinum-resistant ovarian cancer patients. We provide rationale to further validate these miRNA candidates in an independent set of patients, in order to characterize their biomarker potential as predictors for platinum-resistance.

Circular RNA CEP128 acts as a sponge of miR-145-5p in promoting the bladder cancer progression via regulating SOX11

Background

This study aimed to investigate the effect of over-expressing circular RNA CEP128 (circCEP128) on cell functions and explore the molecular mechanism of which in bladder carcinoma.

Methods

The differentially expressed circRNAs and mRNAs in bladder carcinoma cells and cells in adjacent tissues were screened out using microarray analysis. Expression levels of circRNAs and mRNAs in tissues and cells were determined by qRT-PCR. Expression of SOX11 was detected by western blot. Luciferase reporter assay and RNA pull-down assay were used to investigate the interactions between the specific circRNA, miRNA and mRNA. Cell cycle and apoptosis were measured using flow cytometry after transfection. MTT assay was also performed to detect the cell proliferation.

Results

In present study, circCEP128 and SOX11 were observed significantly up-regulated in bladder cancer tissues, while the expression of miR-145-5p was decreased in cancer samples compared to normal samples. Cytoscape was used to visualize circCEP128-miRNA-target gene interactions based on the TargetScan and circular RNA interactome, which revealed that circCEP128 served as a sponge of miR-145-5p and indirectly regulated SOX11. Knockdown of circCEP128 induced the inhibition of cell proliferation and the increased bladder cancer cell apoptosis rate.

Conclusions

CircCEP128 functions as a ceRNA for miR-145-5p, which could up regulates SOX11 and further promotes cell proliferation and inhibits cell apoptosis of bladder cancer.

miR-222 promotes invasion and migration of ovarian carcinoma by targeting PTEN

Ovarian carcinoma is the most lethal of the gynecologic malignancies worldwide. Increasing evidence suggests dysfunction of microRNAs (miRNAs) plays an important role in human cancers. The function of miR-222 was detected in ovarian carcinoma to verify the regulation of phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) by miR-222. miR-222 expression in ovarian carcinoma tissues and cell lines were examined using RT-qPCR. Transwell assay was used to detect miR-222 effects on ovarian carcinoma cell migration and invasion. Western blot analysis and luciferase assays were performed to validate PTEN as miR-222 targets. miR-222 expression was upregulated in ovarian carcinoma tissues and three cell lines (A2780, SKOV-3 and OVCAR-3). Ectopic overexpression of miR-222 in ovarian carcinoma cells was sufficient to promote invasion and migration. PTEN acted as a direct target of miR-222. Overexpression of PTEN inhibited human ovarian carcinoma cell migration and invasion. In summary, our findings suggest that miR-222 plays an important role in promoting ovarian carcinoma cell invasion and migration and miR-222/PTEN may be a novel therapeutic target of miRNA-mediated promotion of cell invasion and migration in ovarian carcinoma.

miR-223-3p Inhibits Human Osteosarcoma Metastasis and Progression by Directly Targeting CDH6

Cadherin-6 (CDH6) is aberrantly expressed in cancer and closely associated with tumor progression. However, the functions of CDH6 in human osteosarcoma and the molecular mechanisms underlying CDH6 in osteosarcoma oncogenesis remain poorly understood. In this work, we assessed the role of CDH6 in human osteosarcoma and identified that the expression of CDH6 was closely related with the overall survival and poor prognosis of osteosarcoma patients. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been implicated as important epigenetic regulators during the progression of osteosarcoma. Using dual-luciferase reporter assays, we showed that miR-223-3p suppresses CDH6 expression by directly binding to the 3' UTR of CDH6. miR-223-3p overexpression significantly inhibited cell invasion, migration, growth, and proliferation by suppressing the CDH6 expression in vivo and in vitro. Besides, CDH6 overexpression in the miR-223-3p-transfected osteosarcoma cells effectively rescued the inhibition of cell invasion, migration, growth, and proliferation mediated by miR-223-3p. Additionally, Kaplan-Meier analysis suggests that the expression of miR-223-3p predicts favorable clinical outcomes for osteosarcoma patients. Moreover, the expression of miR-223-3p was downregulated in osteosarcoma patients and was negatively associated with the expression of CDH6. Collectively, these data highlight that miR-223-3p/CDH6 axis is an important novel pleiotropic regulator and could early predict the metastatic potential in human osteosarcoma treatments.

MiR-223-3p targets ECT2 to regulate cell cycle and apoptosis in gastric cancer cells

AIM

To explore the role of miRNA-223-3p and epithelial cell transforming sequence 2 oncogene (ECT2) in cell cycle and apoptosis of gastric cancer (GC) cells and to analyze their correlation with clinicopathological characteristics.

METHODS

The expression of ECT2 and miR-223-3p in normal gastric mucosa cells (GSE-1) and GC cells (SGC-7901 and BGC-823) was detected by real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR and Western blot. Immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR were used to examine the expression of ECT2 and miR-223-3p in GC tissues and paired adjacent normal tissues, respectively. The correlation between ECT2 and miR-223-3p expression and clinicopathological characteristics was then analyzed. After miRNA-223-3p inhibitor and mimic were used to transfect SGC-7901 cells with LipofectamineTM2000, the expression of miRNA-223-3p and ECT2 was assessed by RT-PCR and Western blot in SGC-7901 cells. After another 24 h culture, the apoptosis rate and cell cycle progression were examined by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

The expression levels of ECT2 and miR-223-3p in GC cells were significantly increased as compared with those in normal gastric mucosa cells (P < 0.05 for both). In comparison with tumor adjacent normal tissues, the expression of ECT2 and miR-223-3p in GC tissues was significantly higher (P < 0.05). The expression of ECT2 and miR-223-3p was related to histologic differentiation (P < 0.05), Lauren type (P < 0.05), and TNM stage (P < 0.01), but not with gender, age, Bormann type, or tumor size (P > 0.05). Transfection with miR-223-3p mimic up-regulated ECT2 expression, whereas transfection of miR-223-3p inhibitor downregulated the expression of ECT2. Compared with negative control cells, the apoptosis rate of SGC-7901 cells transfected with miR-223-3p inhibitor significantly increased (P < 0.05), and the percentage of G₁ phase cells also significantly increased in miR-223-3p inhibitor transfected cells (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

MiR-223-3p is closely related with cell cycle and apoptosis of gastric cancer cells, and it can regulate the occurrence and development of GC by influencing the expression of ECT2. ECT2 and miR-223-3p may serve as good factors to indicate the biologic behavior of GC.

NF-κB/miR-223-3p/ARID1A axis is involved in Helicobacter pylori CagA-induced gastric carcinogenesis and progression

Infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and the resulting gastric inflammation is regarded as the strongest risk factor for gastric carcinogenesis and progression. NF-κB plays an important role in linking H. pylori-mediated inflammation to cancer. However, the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. In this study, we find that H. pylori infection induces miR-223-3p expression in H. pylori CagA-dependent manner. NF-κB stimulates miR-223-3p expression via directly binding to the promoter of miR-223-3p and is required for H. pylori CagA-mediated upregulation of miR-223-3p. miR-223-3p promotes the proliferation and migration of gastric cancer cells by directly targeting ARID1A and decreasing its expression. Furthermore, miR-223-3p/ARID1A axis is involved in CagA-induced cell proliferation and migration. In the clinical setting, the level of miR-223-3p is upregulated, while ARID1A is downregulated significantly in human gastric cancer tissues compared with the corresponding noncancerous tissues. The expression level of miR-223-3p is significantly higher in H. pylori-positive gastric cancer tissues than that in H. pylori-negative tissues. Moreover, a negative correlation between miR-223-3p and ARID1A expression is found in the gastric cancer tissues. Taken together, our findings suggested NF-κB/miR-223-3p/ARID1A axis may link the process of H. pylori-induced chronic inflammation to gastric cancer, thereby providing a new insight into the mechanism underlying H. pylori-associated gastric diseases.

MicroRNAs: tiny molecules with a significant role in mammalian follicular and oocyte development

The genetic regulation of female fertility (follicular development, oocyte maturation and early preimplantation embryo development) involves the spatio-temporal regulation of those genes that play key roles in various stages of the female reproductive axis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a class of small non-coding RNAs, are known to regulate the expression of a large proportion of such genes. In recent decades, multiple studies have aimed to determine the roles of these non-coding RNAs in mammalian follicular development, oocyte growth and embryo development. These studies have applied a variety of approaches, including conditional knockout of miRNA biogenesis genes, high-throughput sequencing technologies for pattern recognition in miRNA expression and loss- and gain-of-function of miRNAs in various animal models. In addition to the cellular miRNAs, a large variety of RNAs are found in circulation, being coupled with extracellular vesicles, proteins and lipids. Because of their potential as diagnostic markers for abnormal physiologies, there is increasing interest in the identification of extracellular miRNAs in various biological fluids and spent in vitro culture media. This review focuses on studies addressing the expression and potential role of cellular and extracellular miRNAs in mammalian follicular cell physiology and subsequent ovarian functionality and oocyte maturation.

miR-145 targets the SOX11 3'UTR to suppress endometrial cancer growth

To explore the functions of SOX (Sex determining Region Y-related HMG-box) family genes in endometrial cancer (EC) and determine the influence of miR-145/SOX11 on EC cell functions. The relationship between miR-145 and SOX11 was confirmed using TargetScan, miRNA databases and dual-luciferase reporter gene assays. The expression of SOX11 mRNA in tissue specimens was examined using RT-qPCR, while SOX11 protein expression in tissues and cell lines were detected through immunohistochemistry (IHC) and western blotting. After transfection using Lipofectamine 2000, the proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis of ECC-1 and HEC-1-A cells were assessed through colony formation, transwell and flow cytometry assays. The correlation of SOX11 expression with the prognosis outcomes of patients was analyzed using Kaplan-Meier analysis and the log-rank test. SOX11 showed high expression in EC, which is negatively correlated with a poor prognostic outcome of EC patients. The expression of miR-145 was lower in EC tissues than in adjacent tissues. MiR-145 significantly reduced the expression of SOX11. In ECC-1 cells, miR-145 suppressed the propagation, migration, and invasion of cells and promoted cell apoptosis. MiR-145 also inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HEC-1-A cells and facilitated cell apoptosis by inhibiting SOX11. MiR-145 targeted site 3 (3615) of the SOX11 3'UTR to affect the expression of SOX11. MiR-145 and its target gene SOX11 could serve as diagnostic markers for EC. MiR-145 targets the SOX11 3'UTR to inhibit its expression and suppress the propagation and metastasis of EC cells.