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Gruszka R, Zakrzewski J, Nowosławska E, Grajkowska W, Zakrzewska M. Identification and validation of miRNA-target genes network in pediatric brain tumors. Sci Rep 2024; 14:17922. [PMID: 39095557 PMCID: PMC11297236 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-68945-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Alterations in miRNA levels have been observed in various types of cancer, impacting numerous cellular processes and increasing their potential usefulness in combination therapies also in brain tumors. Recent advances in understanding the genetics and epigenetics of brain tumours point to new aberrations and associations, making it essential to continually update knowledge and classification. Here we conducted molecular analysis of 123 samples of childhood brain tumors (pilocytic astrocytoma, medulloblastoma, ependymoma), focusing on identification of genes that could potentially be regulated by crucial representatives of OncomiR-1: miR-17-5p and miR-20a-5p. On the basis of microarray gene expression analysis and qRTPCR profiling, we selected six (WEE1, CCND1, VEGFA, PTPRO, TP53INP1, BCL2L11) the most promising target genes for further experiments. The WEE1, CCND1, PTPRO, TP53INP1 genes showed increased expression levels in all tested entities with the lowest increase in the pilocytic astrocytoma compared to the ependymoma and medulloblastoma. The obtained results indicate a correlation between gene expression and the WHO grade and subtype. Furthermore, our analysis showed that the integration between genomic and epigenetic pathways should now point the way to further molecular research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Gruszka
- Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Genetics, University of Lodz, Banacha 12/16, 90-237, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Jakub Zakrzewski
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, ul. Aleja T. Kosciuszki 4, 90-419, Lodz, Poland
| | - Emilia Nowosławska
- Department of Neurosurgery, Polish Mother Memorial Hospital Research Institute in Lodz, Rzgowska 281/289, 93-338, Lodz, Poland
| | - Wiesława Grajkowska
- Department of Pathology, The Children's Memorial Health Institute, Av. Dzieci Polskich 20, 04-730, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Zakrzewska
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Neuropathology, Medical University of Lodz, Pomorska 251, 92-216, Lodz, Poland
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Li Z, Wan L, Wang L, Wang W, Nie R. HHOMR: a hybrid high-order moment residual model for miRNA-disease association prediction. Brief Bioinform 2024; 25:bbae412. [PMID: 39175132 PMCID: PMC11341279 DOI: 10.1093/bib/bbae412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 08/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies have demonstrated that microRNAs (miRNAs) are critically important for the prediction, diagnosis, and characterization of diseases. However, identifying miRNA-disease associations through traditional biological experiments is both costly and time-consuming. To further explore these associations, we proposed a model based on hybrid high-order moments combined with element-level attention mechanisms (HHOMR). This model innovatively fused hybrid higher-order statistical information along with structural and community information. Specifically, we first constructed a heterogeneous graph based on existing associations between miRNAs and diseases. HHOMR employs a structural fusion layer to capture structure-level embeddings and leverages a hybrid high-order moments encoder layer to enhance features. Element-level attention mechanisms are then used to adaptively integrate the features of these hybrid moments. Finally, a multi-layer perceptron is utilized to calculate the association scores between miRNAs and diseases. Through five-fold cross-validation on HMDD v2.0, we achieved a mean AUC of 93.28%. Compared with four state-of-the-art models, HHOMR exhibited superior performance. Additionally, case studies on three diseases-esophageal neoplasms, lymphoma, and prostate neoplasms-were conducted. Among the top 50 miRNAs with high disease association scores, 46, 47, and 45 associated with these diseases were confirmed by the dbDEMC and miR2Disease databases, respectively. Our results demonstrate that HHOMR not only outperforms existing models but also shows significant potential in predicting miRNA-disease associations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengwei Li
- School of Computer Science and Technology, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou 221116, China
- Guangxi Academy of Science, Nanning, 530007, China
- School of Information Science and Engineering, Zaozhuang University, Zaozhuang, 277160, China
| | - Lipeng Wan
- School of Computer Science and Technology, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou 221116, China
| | - Lei Wang
- School of Computer Science and Technology, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou 221116, China
- Guangxi Academy of Science, Nanning, 530007, China
| | - Wenjing Wang
- School of Computer Science and Technology, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou 221116, China
| | - Ru Nie
- School of Computer Science and Technology, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou 221116, China
- Mine Digitization Engineering Research Center of the Ministry of Education, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou 221116, China
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Moaveni AK, Amiri M, Shademan B, Farhadi A, Behroozi J, Nourazarian A. Advances and challenges in gene therapy strategies for pediatric cancer: a comprehensive update. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 11:1382190. [PMID: 38836106 PMCID: PMC11149429 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2024.1382190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Pediatric cancers represent a tragic but also promising area for gene therapy. Although conventional treatments have improved survival rates, there is still a need for targeted and less toxic interventions. This article critically analyzes recent advances in gene therapy for pediatric malignancies and discusses the challenges that remain. We explore the innovative vectors and delivery systems that have emerged, such as adeno-associated viruses and non-viral platforms, which show promise in addressing the unique pathophysiology of pediatric tumors. Specifically, we examine the field of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapies and their adaptation for solid tumors, which historically have been more challenging to treat than hematologic malignancies. We also discuss the genetic and epigenetic complexities inherent to pediatric cancers, such as tumor heterogeneity and the dynamic tumor microenvironment, which pose significant hurdles for gene therapy. Ethical considerations specific to pediatric populations, including consent and long-term follow-up, are also analyzed. Additionally, we scrutinize the translation of research from preclinical models that often fail to mimic pediatric cancer biology to the regulatory landscapes that can either support or hinder innovation. In summary, this article provides an up-to-date overview of gene therapy in pediatric oncology, highlighting both the rapid scientific progress and the substantial obstacles that need to be addressed. Through this lens, we propose a roadmap for future research that prioritizes the safety, efficacy, and complex ethical considerations involved in treating pediatric patients. Our ultimate goal is to move from incremental advancements to transformative therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Kian Moaveni
- Pediatric Urology and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Amiri
- Pediatric Urology and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behrouz Shademan
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Arezoo Farhadi
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Javad Behroozi
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Nourazarian
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Khoy University of Medical Sciences, Khoy, Iran
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Mandić K, Milutin Gašperov N, Božinović K, Dediol E, Krasić J, Sinčić N, Grce M, Sabol I, Barešić A. Integrative analysis in head and neck cancer reveals distinct role of miRNome and methylome as tumour epigenetic drivers. Sci Rep 2024; 14:9062. [PMID: 38643268 PMCID: PMC11032388 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-59312-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Head and neck cancer is the sixth most common malignancy worldwide, with the relatively low 5-year survival rate, mainly because it is diagnosed at a late stage. Infection with HPV is a well known aetiology, which affects the nature of these cancers and patients' survival. Besides, it is considered that the main driving force for this type of cancer could be epigenetics. In this study we aimed to find potential epigenetic biomarkers, by integrating miRNome, methylome, and transcriptome analyses. From the fresh head and neck cancer tissue samples, we chose a group for miRNome, methylome and transcriptome profiling, in comparison to adequate control samples. Bioinformatics analyses are performed in R v4.2.2. Count normalisation and group differential expression for mRNA and the previously obtained miRNA count data was performed with DESeq2 v1.36. Gene set enrichment analysis was performed and visualised using gProfiler2 v0.2.1 Identification of miRNA targets was performed by querying in miRTarBase using multiMiR v1.18.0. Annotation of CpG sites merging into islands was obtained from RnBeads.hg19 v1.28.0. package. For the integrative analysis we performed kmeans clustering using stats v4.2.2 package, using 8-12 clusters and nstart 100. We found that transcriptome analysis divides samples into cancers and controls clusters, with no relation to HPV status or cancer anatomical location. Differentially expressed genes (n = 2781) were predominantly associated with signalling pathways of tumour progression. We identified a cluster of genes under the control of the transcription factor E2F that are significantly underexpressed in cancer tissue, as well as T cell immunity genes and genes related to regulation of transcription. Among overexpressed genes in tumours we found those that belong to cell cycle regulation and vasculature. A small number of genes were found significantly differentially expressed in HPV-positive versus HPV-negative tumours (for example NEFH, ZFR2, TAF7L, ZNF541, and TYMS). In this comprehensive study on an overlapping set of samples where the integration of miRNome, methylome and transcriptome analysis were performed for head and neck cancer, we demonstrated that the majority of genes were associated exclusively with miRNome or methylome and, to a lesser extent, under the control of both epigenetic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarina Mandić
- Division of Electronics, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Ksenija Božinović
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Emil Dediol
- Department of Maxillofacial Surgery, Clinical Hospital Dubrava, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Jure Krasić
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nino Sinčić
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
- Centre of Excellence in Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
- Biomedical Research Centre Šalata, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Magdalena Grce
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ivan Sabol
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Anja Barešić
- Division of Electronics, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
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El-Kadi RA, AbdelKader NF, Zaki HF, Kamel AS. Vilazodone Alleviates Neurogenesis-Induced Anxiety in the Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress Female Rat Model: Role of Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04142-3. [PMID: 38584231 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04142-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Defective β-catenin signaling is accompanied with compensatory neurogenesis process that may pave to anxiety. β-Catenin has a distinct role in alleviating anxiety in adolescence; however, it undergoes degradation by the degradation complex Axin and APC. Vilazodone (VZ) is a fast, effective antidepressant with SSRI activity and 5-HT1A partial agonism that amends somatic and/or psychic symptoms of anxiety. Yet, there is no data about anxiolytic effect of VZ on anxiety-related neurogenesis provoked by stress-reduced β-catenin signaling. Furthermore, females have specific susceptibility toward psychopathology. The aim of the present study is to uncover the molecular mechanism of VZ relative to Wnt/β-catenin signaling in female rats. Stress-induced anxiety was conducted by subjecting the rats to different stressful stimuli for 21 days. On the 15th day, stressed rats were treated with VZ(10 mg/kg, p.o.) alone or concomitant with the Wnt inhibitor: XAV939 (0.1 mg/kg, i.p.). Anxious rats showed low β-catenin level turned over by Axin-1 with unanticipated reduction of APC pursued with elevated protein levels of neurogenesis-stimulating proteins: c-Myc and pThr183-Erk likewise gene expressions of miR-17-5p and miR-18. Two weeks of VZ treatment showed anxiolytic effect figured by alleviation of hippocampal histological examination. VZ protected β-catenin signal via reduction in Axin-1 and elevation of APC conjugated with modulation of β-catenin downstream targets. The cytoplasmic β-catenin turnover by Axin-1 was restored by XAV939. Herein, VZ showed anti-anxiety effect, which may be in part through regaining the balance of the reduced β-catenin and its subsequent exaggerated response of p-Erk, c-Myc, Dicer-1, miR-17-5p, and miR-18.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana A El-Kadi
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr El-Aini, Cairo, 11562, Egypt
- Alexandria University Hospitals, Champollion Street, El-Khartoum Square, El Azareeta, Alexandria, 21131, Egypt
| | - Noha F AbdelKader
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr El-Aini, Cairo, 11562, Egypt
| | - Hala F Zaki
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr El-Aini, Cairo, 11562, Egypt
| | - Ahmed S Kamel
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr El-Aini, Cairo, 11562, Egypt.
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Kubickova A, De Sanctis JB, Hajduch M. Isoform-Directed Control of c-Myc Functions: Understanding the Balance from Proliferation to Growth Arrest. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17524. [PMID: 38139353 PMCID: PMC10743581 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor c-Myc, a key regulator of cellular processes, has long been associated with roles in cell proliferation and apoptosis. This review analyses the multiple functions of c-Myc by examining the different c-Myc isoforms in detail. The impact of different c-Myc isoforms, in particular p64 and p67, on fundamental biological processes remains controversial. It is necessary to investigate the different isoforms in the context of proto-oncogenesis. The current knowledge base suggests that neoplastic lesions may possess the means for self-destruction via increased c-Myc activity. This review presents the most relevant information on the c-Myc locus and focuses on a number of isoforms, including p64 and p67. This compilation provides a basis for the development of therapeutic approaches that target the potent growth arresting and pro-apoptotic functions of c-Myc. This information can then be used to develop targeted interventions against specific isoforms with the aim of shifting the oncogenic effects of c-Myc from pro-proliferative to pro-apoptotic. The research summarised in this review can deepen our understanding of how c-Myc activity contributes to different cellular responses, which will be crucial in developing effective therapeutic strategies; for example, isoform-specific approaches may allow for precise modulation of c-Myc function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Kubickova
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Palacky University and University Hospital Olomouc, Hnevotinska 1333/5, 77900 Olomouc, Czech Republic; (A.K.); (J.B.D.S.)
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Czech Advanced Technology and Research Institute, Palacky University in Olomouc, Hnevotinska 1333/5, 77900 Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Juan Bautista De Sanctis
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Palacky University and University Hospital Olomouc, Hnevotinska 1333/5, 77900 Olomouc, Czech Republic; (A.K.); (J.B.D.S.)
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Czech Advanced Technology and Research Institute, Palacky University in Olomouc, Hnevotinska 1333/5, 77900 Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Marian Hajduch
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Palacky University and University Hospital Olomouc, Hnevotinska 1333/5, 77900 Olomouc, Czech Republic; (A.K.); (J.B.D.S.)
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Czech Advanced Technology and Research Institute, Palacky University in Olomouc, Hnevotinska 1333/5, 77900 Olomouc, Czech Republic
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Wang J, Zuo Z, Yu Z, Chen Z, Tran LJ, Zhang J, Ao J, Ye F, Sun Z. Collaborating single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing for comprehensive characterization of the intratumor heterogeneity and prognostic model development for bladder cancer. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:12104-12119. [PMID: 37950728 PMCID: PMC10683618 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gaining a deeper insight into the single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) results of bladder cancer (BLCA) provides a transcriptomic profiling of individual cancer cells, which may disclose the molecular mechanisms involved in BLCA carcinogenesis. METHODS scRNA data were obtained from GSE169379 dataset. We used the InferCNV software to determine the copy number variant (CNV) with normal epithelial cells serving as the reference, and performed the pseudo-timing analysis on subsets of epithelial cell using Monocle3 software. Transcription factor analysis was conducted using the Dorothea software. Intercellular communication analysis was performed using the Liana software. Cox analysis and LASSO regression were applied to establish a prognostic model. RESULTS We investigated the heterogeneity of tumors in four distinct cell types of BLCA cancer, namely immune cells, endothelial cells, epithelial cells, and fibroblasts. We evaluated the transcription factor activity of different immune cells in BLCA and identified significant enrichment of TCF7 and TBX21 in CD8+ T cells. Additionally, we identified two distinct subtypes of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), namely iCAFs and myoCAFs, which exhibited distinct communication patterns. Using sub-cluster and cell trajectory analyses, we identified different states of normal-to-malignant cell transformation in epithelial cells. TF analysis further revealed high activation of MYC and SOX2 in tumor cells. Finally, we identified five model genes (SLCO3A1, ANXA1, TENM3, EHBP1, LSAMP) for the development of a prognostic model, which demonstrated high effectiveness in stratifying patients across seven different cohorts. CONCLUSIONS We have developed a prognostic model that has demonstrated significant efficacy in stratifying patients with BLCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Wang
- Department of Urology, The Second People’s Hospital of Meishan, Meishan, Sichuan 620500, China
- Department of Urology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130000, Jilin, China
| | - Zili Zuo
- Department of Urology, The Second People’s Hospital of Meishan, Meishan, Sichuan 620500, China
| | - Zongze Yu
- Department of Urology, The Second People’s Hospital of Meishan, Meishan, Sichuan 620500, China
| | - Zhigui Chen
- Department of Urology, The Second People’s Hospital of Meishan, Meishan, Sichuan 620500, China
| | - Lisa Jia Tran
- Department of General, Visceral, And Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Bayern, Munich 81377, Germany
| | - Jing Zhang
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, The University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, Vermillion, SD 57069, USA
| | - Jinsong Ao
- Department of Urology, The First People’s Hospital of Jiangxia, Wuhan 430200, Hubei, China
| | - Fangdie Ye
- Department of Urology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Jing’an 200000, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhou Sun
- Department of Urology, The First People’s Hospital of Jiangxia, Wuhan 430200, Hubei, China
- Department of Urology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130000, Jilin, China
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Hu Q, Huang T. Regulation of the Cell Cycle by ncRNAs Affects the Efficiency of CDK4/6 Inhibition. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108939. [PMID: 37240281 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) regulate cell division at multiple levels. Aberrant proliferation induced by abnormal cell cycle is a hallmark of cancer. Over the past few decades, several drugs that inhibit CDK activity have been created to stop the development of cancer cells. The third generation of selective CDK4/6 inhibition has proceeded into clinical trials for a range of cancers and is quickly becoming the backbone of contemporary cancer therapy. Non-coding RNAs, or ncRNAs, do not encode proteins. Many studies have demonstrated the involvement of ncRNAs in the regulation of the cell cycle and their abnormal expression in cancer. By interacting with important cell cycle regulators, preclinical studies have demonstrated that ncRNAs may decrease or increase the treatment outcome of CDK4/6 inhibition. As a result, cell cycle-associated ncRNAs may act as predictors of CDK4/6 inhibition efficacy and perhaps present novel candidates for tumor therapy and diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingyi Hu
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Tao Huang
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
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Putting the "mi" in omics: discovering miRNA biomarkers for pediatric precision care. Pediatr Res 2023; 93:316-323. [PMID: 35906312 PMCID: PMC9884316 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-022-02206-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
In the past decade, growing interest in micro-ribonucleic acids (miRNAs) has catapulted these small, non-coding nucleic acids to the forefront of biomarker research. Advances in scientific knowledge have made it clear that miRNAs play a vital role in regulating cellular physiology throughout the human body. Perturbations in miRNA signaling have also been described in a variety of pediatric conditions-from cancer, to renal failure, to traumatic brain injury. Likewise, the number of studies across pediatric disciplines that pair patient miRNA-omics with longitudinal clinical data are growing. Analyses of these voluminous, multivariate data sets require understanding of pediatric phenotypic data, data science, and genomics. Use of machine learning techniques to aid in biomarker detection have helped decipher background noise from biologically meaningful changes in the data. Further, emerging research suggests that miRNAs may have potential as therapeutic targets for pediatric precision care. Here, we review current miRNA biomarkers of pediatric diseases and studies that have combined machine learning techniques, miRNA-omics, and patient health data to identify novel biomarkers and potential therapeutics for pediatric diseases. IMPACT: In the following review article, we summarized how recent developments in microRNA research may be coupled with machine learning techniques to advance pediatric precision care.
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10
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Chadda KR, Blakey EE, Coleman N, Murray MJ. The clinical utility of dysregulated microRNA expression in paediatric solid tumours. Eur J Cancer 2022; 176:133-154. [PMID: 36215946 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2022.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short, non-protein-coding genes that regulate the expression of numerous protein-coding genes. Their expression is dysregulated in cancer, where they may function as oncogenes or tumour suppressor genes. As miRNAs are highly resistant to degradation, they are ideal biomarker candidates to improve the diagnosis and clinical management of cancer, including prognostication. Furthermore, miRNAs dysregulated in malignancy represent potential therapeutic targets. The use of miRNAs for these purposes is a particularly attractive option to explore for paediatric malignancies, where the mutational burden is typically low, in contrast to cancers affecting adult patients. As childhood cancers are rare, it has taken time to accumulate the necessary body of evidence showing the potential for miRNAs to improve clinical management across this group of tumours. Here, we review the current literature regarding the potential clinical utility of miRNAs in paediatric solid tumours, which is now both timely and justified. Exploring such avenues is warranted to improve the management and outcomes of children affected by cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karan R Chadda
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QP, UK
| | - Ellen E Blakey
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QP, UK
| | - Nicholas Coleman
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QP, UK; Department of Paediatric Histopathology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Hills Road, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK.
| | - Matthew J Murray
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QP, UK; Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Hills Road, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK.
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Context-Dependent Regulation of Gene Expression by Non-Canonical Small RNAs. Noncoding RNA 2022; 8:ncrna8030029. [PMID: 35645336 PMCID: PMC9149963 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna8030029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent functional genomics studies, a large number of non-coding RNAs have been identified. It has become increasingly apparent that noncoding RNAs are crucial players in a wide range of cellular and physiological functions. They have been shown to modulate gene expression on different levels, including transcription, post-transcriptional processing, and translation. This review aims to highlight the diverse mechanisms of the regulation of gene expression by small noncoding RNAs in different conditions and different types of human cells. For this purpose, various cellular functions of microRNAs (miRNAs), circular RNAs (circRNAs), snoRNA-derived small RNAs (sdRNAs) and tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs) will be exemplified, with particular emphasis on the diversity of their occurrence and on the effects on gene expression in different stress conditions and diseased cell types. The synthesis and effect on gene expression of these noncoding RNAs varies in different cell types and may depend on environmental conditions such as different stresses. Moreover, noncoding RNAs play important roles in many diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and viral infections.
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12
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miRNA:miRNA Interactions: A Novel Mode of miRNA Regulation and Its Effect On Disease. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1385:241-257. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-08356-3_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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13
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Role of MicroRNAs in the Development and Progression of the Four Medulloblastoma Subgroups. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13246323. [PMID: 34944941 PMCID: PMC8699467 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13246323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma is the most frequent malignant brain tumour in children. Medulloblastoma originate during the embryonic stage. They are located in the cerebellum, which is the area of the central nervous system (CNS) responsible for controlling equilibrium and coordination of movements. In 2012, medulloblastoma were divided into four subgroups based on a genome-wide analysis of RNA expression. These subgroups are named Wingless, Sonic Hedgehog, Group 3 and Group 4. Each subgroup has a different cell of origin, prognosis, and response to therapies. Wingless and Sonic Hedgehog medulloblastoma are so named based on the main mutation originating these tumours. Group 3 and Group 4 have generic names because we do not know the key mutation driving these tumours. Gene expression at the post-transcriptional level is regulated by a group of small single-stranded non-coding RNAs. These microRNA (miRNAs or miRs) play a central role in several cellular functions such as cell differentiation and, therefore, any malfunction in this regulatory system leads to a variety of disorders such as cancer. The role of miRNAs in medulloblastoma is still a topic of intense clinical research; previous studies have mostly concentrated on the clinical entity of the single disease rather than in the four molecular subgroups. In this review, we summarize the latest discoveries on miRNAs in the four medulloblastoma subgroups.
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MYCN in Neuroblastoma: "Old Wine into New Wineskins". Diseases 2021; 9:diseases9040078. [PMID: 34842635 PMCID: PMC8628738 DOI: 10.3390/diseases9040078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
MYCN Proto-Oncogene, BHLH Transcription Factor (MYCN) has been one of the most studied genes in neuroblastoma. It is known for its oncogenetic mechanisms, as well as its role in the prognosis of the disease and it is considered one of the prominent targets for neuroblastoma therapy. In the present work, we attempted to review the literature, on the relation between MYCN and neuroblastoma from all possible mechanistic sites. We have searched the literature for the role of MYCN in neuroblastoma based on the following topics: the references of MYCN in the literature, the gene's anatomy, along with its transcripts, the protein's anatomy, the epigenetic mechanisms regulating MYCN expression and function, as well as MYCN amplification. MYCN plays a significant role in neuroblastoma biology. Its functions and properties range from the forming of G-quadraplexes, to the interaction with miRNAs, as well as the regulation of gene methylation and histone acetylation and deacetylation. Although MYCN is one of the most primary genes studied in neuroblastoma, there is still a lot to be learned. Our knowledge on the exact mechanisms of MYCN amplification, etiology and potential interventions is still limited. The knowledge on the molecular mechanisms of MYCN in neuroblastoma, could have potential prognostic and therapeutic advantages.
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Mi QS, Wang J, Liu Q, Wu X, Zhou L. microRNA dynamic expression regulates invariant NKT cells. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:6003-6015. [PMID: 34236444 PMCID: PMC11073247 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03895-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Invariant natural killer T cells (iNKT) are a prevalent population of innate-like T cells in mice, but quite rare in humans that are critical for regulation of the innate and adaptive immune responses during antimicrobial immunity, tumor rejection, and inflammatory diseases. Multiple transcription factors and signaling molecules that contribute to iNKT cell selection and functional differentiation have been identified. However, the full molecular network responsible for regulating and maintaining iNKT populations remains unclear. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are an abundant class of evolutionarily conserved, small, non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally. Previous reports uncovered the important roles of miRNAs in iNKT cell development and function using Dicer mutant mice. In this review, we discuss the emerging roles of individual miRNAs in iNKT cells reported by our group and other groups, including miR-150, miR-155, miR-181, let-7, miR-17 ~ 92 cluster, and miR-183-96-182 cluster. It is likely that iNKT cell development, differentiation, homeostasis, and functions are orchestrated through a multilayered network comprising interactions among master transcription factors, signaling molecules, and dynamically expressed miRNAs. We provide a comprehensive view of the molecular mechanisms underlying iNKT cell differentiation and function controlled by dynamically expressed miRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing-Sheng Mi
- Center for Cutaneous Biology and Immunology, Department of Dermatology, Henry Ford Health System, 1 Ford Place, Detroit, MI, USA.
- Immunology Research Program, Henry Ford Cancer Institute, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI, USA.
- Department of Internal Medicine, Henry Ford Health System, 1 Ford Place, Detroit, MI, 48202, USA.
| | - Jie Wang
- Center for Cutaneous Biology and Immunology, Department of Dermatology, Henry Ford Health System, 1 Ford Place, Detroit, MI, USA
- Immunology Research Program, Henry Ford Cancer Institute, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Queping Liu
- Center for Cutaneous Biology and Immunology, Department of Dermatology, Henry Ford Health System, 1 Ford Place, Detroit, MI, USA
- Immunology Research Program, Henry Ford Cancer Institute, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Xiaojun Wu
- Center for Cutaneous Biology and Immunology, Department of Dermatology, Henry Ford Health System, 1 Ford Place, Detroit, MI, USA
- Immunology Research Program, Henry Ford Cancer Institute, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Li Zhou
- Center for Cutaneous Biology and Immunology, Department of Dermatology, Henry Ford Health System, 1 Ford Place, Detroit, MI, USA.
- Immunology Research Program, Henry Ford Cancer Institute, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI, USA.
- Department of Internal Medicine, Henry Ford Health System, 1 Ford Place, Detroit, MI, 48202, USA.
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An Insight into the microRNAs Associated with Arteriovenous and Cavernous Malformations of the Brain. Cells 2021; 10:cells10061373. [PMID: 34199498 PMCID: PMC8227573 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Brain arteriovenous malformations (BAVMs) and cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) are rare developmental anomalies of the intracranial vasculature, with an irregular tendency to rupture, and as of yet incompletely deciphered pathophysiology. Because of their variety in location, morphology, and size, as well as unpredictable natural history, they represent a management challenge. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are strands of non-coding RNA of around 20 nucleotides that are able to modulate the expression of target genes by binding completely or partially to their respective complementary sequences. Recent breakthroughs have been made on elucidating their contribution to BAVM and CCM occurrence, growth, and evolution; however, there are still countless gaps in our understanding of the mechanisms involved. Methods: We have searched the Medline (PubMed; PubMed Central) database for pertinent articles on miRNAs and their putative implications in BAVMs and CCMs. To this purpose, we employed various permutations of the terms and idioms: ‘arteriovenous malformation’, ‘AVM’, and ‘BAVM’, or ‘cavernous malformation’, ‘cavernoma’, and ‘cavernous angioma’ on the one hand; and ‘microRNA’, ‘miRNA’, and ‘miR’ on the other. Using cross-reference search; we then investigated additional articles concerning the individual miRNAs identified in other cerebral diseases. Results: Seven miRNAs were discovered to play a role in BAVMs, three of which were downregulated (miR-18a, miR-137, and miR-195*) and four upregulated (miR-7-5p, miR-199a-5p, miR-200b-3p, and let-7b-3p). Similarly, eight miRNAs were identified in CCM in humans and experimental animal models, two being upregulated (miR-27a and mmu-miR-3472a), and six downregulated (miR-125a, miR-361-5p, miR-370-3p, miR-181a-2-3p, miR-95-3p, and let-7b-3p). Conclusions: The following literature review endeavored to address the recent discoveries related to the various implications of miRNAs in the formation and growth of BAVMs and CCMs. Additionally, by presenting other cerebral pathologies correlated with these miRNAs, it aimed to emphasize the potential directions of upcoming research and biological therapies.
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