MicroRNA miR-451 downregulates the PI3K/AKT pathway through CAB39 in human glioma

MAPKAPK5-AS1/miR-515-5p/CAB39 Axis Contributes to Non-small Cell Lung Cancer Cell Proliferation and Migration

Several studies have elucidated the pivotal function that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) exerted on the initiation and development of various human carcinomas, encompassing non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In spite of the fact that lncRNA MAPKAPK5 antisense RNA 1 (MAPKAPK5-AS1) has already been investigated by researchers and confirmed to play oncogenic roles in colorectal cancer, the underlying regulatory function of MAPKAPK5-AS1 in NSCLC cells still remain unclear. In our research, we found that MAPKAPK5-AS1 was expressed at high levels in NSCLC cells. Biological functional assays unclosed that downregulation of MAPKAPK5-AS1 repressed proliferative and migratory capacities whereas promoted apoptotic level in NSCLC cells. Molecular mechanism experiments confirmed that, in NSCLC cells, MAPKAPK5-AS1 combined with miR-515-5p and negatively modulated miR-515-5p expression level. Besides, calcium-binding protein 39 (CAB39) expression level was verified to be negatively modulated by miR-515-5p whereas positively modulated by MAPKAPK5-AS1 in NSCLC cells. Furthermore, rescued-function assays disclosed that inhibited miR-515-5p expression or overexpressed CAB39 could restore the suppressive influence of MAPKAPK5-AS1 silence on NSCLC progression. In summary, MAPKAPK5-AS1 upregulates CAB39 expression level to facilitate NSCLC progression by sequestering miR-515-5p, providing promising biomarkers for NSCLC treatment.

Expression of miRNA-451 and miRNA-885 in Meningiomas

BACKGROUND/AIM

Meningiomas are one of the most common intracranial tumors, accounting for 30% of the tumors of the central nervous system. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are noncoding RNAs containing approximately 18-22 nucleotides that regulate gene expression by interfering with transcription or inhibiting translation. Recent studies have reported that miRNAs could provide information about the molecular pathogenesis of several types of tumors. This study aimed to examine the expression levels of miRNA-885 and -451 and to determine their potential roles as biomarkers in meningioma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In total, 29 patients with meningioma (9 males and 20 females) were included in this study. The expression levels of miRNA were determined using real-time polymerase chain reaction. In addition, receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to analyze the predictive potential of miRNAs.

RESULTS

Our results indicated a significant increase in miRNA-451 expression levels (p=0.003); however, there was no significant change in miRNA-885 expression levels (p=0.139) in patients with meningioma compared with the control group. Moreover, miRNA-885 and miRNA-451 expression levels did not differ significantly based on the histopathological grade of meningioma.

CONCLUSION

miRNA-451 may be a novel potential marker for the diagnosis and prognosis, and a target for meningioma treatment.

Focused ultrasound combined with miR-1208-equipped exosomes inhibits malignant progression of glioma

BACKGROUND

Exosomes (Exos) can safely and effectively deliver therapeutic substances to glioma cells; however, their blood-brain barrier (BBB) crossing capacity remains limited. Focused ultrasound (FUS) can transiently, reversibly, and locally open the BBB, while the effects of FUS combined with Exos-miRNA on the treatment of glioma have not been explored to date.

METHODS

Exos were extracted by differential centrifugation and the efficacy of miR-1208-loaded Exos combined with FUS in the treatment of glioma was detected by CCK-8, colony formation, flow cytometry, transwell and tumour xenografts assays. The METTL3-mediated regulation of IGF2BP2 on mRNA stability of NUP214 was determined by MeRIP-qPCR, half-life and RIP assays.

RESULTS

We used Exos secreted by mesenchymal stem cells as carriers for the tumour suppressor gene miR-1208, and following FUS irradiation, more Exos carrying miR-1208 were allowed to pass through the BBB, and the uptake of miR-1208 in Exos by glioma cells was promoted, thereby achieving high-efficiency tumour-suppressive effects. Furthermore, the molecular mechanism underlying this effect was elucidated that miR-1208 downregulated the m6A methylation level of NUP214 mRNA by negatively regulating the expression of METTL3, thereby NUP214 expression and TGF-β pathway activity were suppressed.

CONCLUSIONS

MiR-1208-loaded Exos combined with FUS is expected to become an effective glioma treatment and deserves further clinical evaluation.

Functional importance of glucose transporters and chromatin epigenetic factors in Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM): possible therapeutics

Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) is an aggressive brain cancer affecting glial cells and is chemo- and radio-resistant. Glucose is considered the most vital energy source for cancer cell proliferation. During metabolism, hexose molecules will be transported into the cells via transmembrane proteins known as glucose transporter (GLUT). Among them, GLUT-1 and GLUT-3 play pivotal roles in glucose transport in GBM. Knockdown studies have established the role of GLUT-1, and GLUT-3 mediated glucose transport in GBM cells, providing insight into GLUT-mediated cancer signaling and cancer aggressiveness. This review focussed on the vital role of GLUT-1 and GLUT-3 proteins, which regulate glucose transport. Recent studies have identified the role of GLUT inhibitors in effective cancer prevention. Several of them are in clinical trials. Understanding and functional approaches towards glucose-mediated cell metabolism and chromatin epigenetics will provide valuable insights into the mechanism of cancer aggressiveness, cancer stemness, and chemo-resistance in Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM). This review summarizes the role of GLUT inhibitors, micro-RNAs, and long non-coding RNAs that aid in inhibiting glucose uptake by the GBM cells and other cancer cells leading to the identification of potential therapeutic, prognostic as well as diagnostic markers. Furthermore, the involvement of epigenetic factors, such as microRNAs, in regulating glycolytic genes was demonstrated.

Regulation of Molecular Targets in Osteosarcoma Treatment

The most prevalent malignant bone tumor, osteosarcoma, affects the growth plates of long bones in adolescents and young adults. Standard chemotherapeutic methods showed poor response rates in patients with recurrent and metastatic phases. Therefore, it is critical to develop novel and efficient targeted therapies to address relapse cases. In this regard, RNA interference technologies are encouraging options in cancer treatment, in which small interfering RNAs regulate the gene expression following RNA interference pathways. The determination of target tissue is as important as the selection of tissue-specific promoters. Moreover, small interfering RNAs should be delivered effectively into the cytoplasm. Lentiviral vectors could encapsulate and deliver the desired gene into the cell and integrate it into the genome, providing long-term regulation of targeted genes. Silencing overexpressed genes promote the tumor cells to lose invasiveness, prevents their proliferation, and triggers their apoptosis. The uniqueness of cancer cells among patients requires novel therapeutic methods that treat patients based on their unique mutations. Several studies showed the effectiveness of different approaches such as microRNA, drug- or chemotherapy-related methods in treating the disease; however, identifying various targets was challenging to understanding disease progression. In this regard, the patient-specific abnormal gene might be targeted using genomics and molecular advancements such as RNA interference approaches. Here, we review potential therapeutic targets for the RNA interference approach, which is applicable as a therapeutic option for osteosarcoma patients, and we point out how the small interfering RNA method becomes a promising approach for the unmet challenge.

RHO GTPase-Related Long Noncoding RNAs in Human Cancers

RHO GTPases are critical signal transducers that regulate cell adhesion, polarity, and migration through multiple signaling pathways. While all these cellular processes are crucial for the maintenance of normal cell homeostasis, disturbances in RHO GTPase-associated signaling pathways contribute to different human diseases, including many malignancies. Several members of the RHO GTPase family are frequently upregulated in human tumors. Abnormal gene regulation confirms the pivotal role of lncRNAs as critical gene regulators, and thus, they could potentially act as oncogenes or tumor suppressors. lncRNAs most likely act as sponges for miRNAs, which are known to be dysregulated in various cancers. In this regard, the significant role of miRNAs targeting RHO GTPases supports the view that the aberrant expression of lncRNAs may reciprocally change the intensity of RHO GTPase-associated signaling pathways. In this review article, we summarize recent advances in lncRNA research, with a specific focus on their sponge effects on RHO GTPase-targeting miRNAs to crucially mediate gene expression in different cancer cell types and tissues. We will focus in particular on five members of the RHO GTPase family, including RHOA, RHOB, RHOC, RAC1, and CDC42, to illustrate the role of lncRNAs in cancer progression. A deeper understanding of the widespread dysregulation of lncRNAs is of fundamental importance for confirmation of their contribution to RHO GTPase-dependent carcinogenesis.

FAM87A as a Competing Endogenous RNA of miR-424-5p Suppresses Glioma Progression by Regulating PPM1H

Far less has been unveiled about the functions of lncRNAs on cancers yet. Here, we reported that lncRNA FAM87A, as a ceRNA of miR-424-5p, played a vital role in glioma development. qRT-PCR result indicated that FAM87A was abnormally downregulated in glioma tissue and cells. Survival analysis suggested that the FAM87A expression was negatively correlated with the survival rate. Effects of FAM87A on human glioma cell lines were also analyzed by MTT, Edu, and transwell assays. FAM87A hastened proliferation and migration of glioma cells. MiR-424-5p, predicted target of FAM87A, was fostered in glioma, which was examined by qRT-PCR. A negative correlation was indicated between FAM87A and miR-424-5p. Results of bioinformatics, dual luciferase, and RIP assays unveiled that FAM87A and miR-424-5p act upon each other. In addition, miR-424-5p targeted 3'-UTR of PPM1H. Also, effects of miR-424-5p/FAM87A on glioma cells were identified via the cell function experiments. FAM87A suppressed PPM1H by binding to miR-424-5p competitively, thereby restraining cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Collectively, these findings illuminated a new mechanism for glioma progression. Therefore, FAM87A may act as a feasible target for glioma treatment.

Differential Expression Pattern of Goat Uterine Fluids Extracellular Vesicles miRNAs during Peri-Implantation

Early pregnancy failure occurs when a mature embryo attaches to an unreceptive endometrium. During the formation of a receptive endometrium, extracellular vesicles (EVs) of the uterine fluids (UFs) deliver regulatory molecules such as small RNAs to mediate intrauterine communication between the embryo and the endometrium. However, profiling of small RNAs in goat UFs’ EVs during pregnancy recognition (day 16) has not been carried out. In this study, EVs were isolated from UFs on day 16 of the estrous cycle or gestation. They were isolated by Optiprep™ Density G radient (ODG) and verified by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), and Western blotting. Immunostaining demonstrated that CD63 was present both in the endometrial epithelium and glandular epithelium, and stain intensity was greater in the pregnant endometrium compared to the non-pregnant endometrium. Small RNA sequencing revealed that UFs’ EVs contained numerous sRNA families and a total of 106 differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs). Additionally, 1867 target genes of the DEMs were obtained, and miRNA–mRNA interaction networks were constructed. GO and KEGG analysis showed that miRNAs were significantly associated with the formation of a receptive endometrium and embryo implantation. In addition, the fluorescence in situ hybridization assay (FISH) showed that chi-miR-451-5p was mainly expressed in stromal cells of the endometrium and a higher level was detected in the endometrial luminal epithelium in pregnant states. Moreover, the dual-luciferase reporter assay showed that chi-miR-451-5p directly binds to PSMB8 and may play an important role in the formation of a receptive endometrium and embryo implantation. In conclusion, these results reveal that UFs’ EVs contain various small RNAs that may be vital in the formation of a receptive endometrium and embryo implantation.

miRNA-451 regulates the NF-κB signaling pathway by targeting IKKβ to inhibit glioma cell growth

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is associated with a poor prognosis, and effective treatments are lacking. Our previous studies have shown that miRNA-451 is closely related to the development and progression of glioma. miRNA-451 is a tumor suppressor whose expression is negatively correlated with the WHO grades of gliomas, but its specific mechanism is still unclear. Research shows that NF-κB is highly expressed in early malignant glioma, and thus, the NF-κB signaling pathway has become an important target for the treatment of malignant glioma. Activation of IKK is a critical step in the activation of the classical NF-κB pathway. By performing a bioinformatics analysis, we found that IKKβ is a potential direct target of miRNA-451 in glioma. In this study, we transfected lentivirus expressing miRNA-451 to test the effect of miRNA-451 overexpression on malignant glioma cell lines and confirmed that IKKβ is a target gene of miRNA-451 by luciferase assay. By targeting IKKβ, MTT, cell invasion and wound-healing assays showed that cell proliferation, cell invasion and migration were significantly suppressed in the LV-miRNA-451 group. Western blotting results showed that the expression levels of IKKβ, p-p65, MMP-2, MMP-9, Cyclin D1, p16 and PCNA were significantly decreased in the LV-miRNA-451 group. In vivo, miRNA-451 significantly decreased glioma cell growth, and the survival of BALB/c-A nude mice was significantly prolonged. Immunohistochemistry showed that p-p65, Cyclin D1 and Ki67 expression was significantly reduced in the LV-miRNA-451 group. Taken together, these results suggest that miRNA-451 could regulate the NF-κB signaling pathway by targeting IKKβ, which inhibits glioma cell growth in vitro and in vivo. Therefore, this study may provide novel insight into miRNA-451-targeted therapy for glioma.

The Role of Non-coding RNAs in the Pathogenesis of Glial Tumors

Among the many malignant neoplasms, glioblastoma (GBM) leads to one of the worst prognosis for patients and has an almost 100% recurrence rate. The only chemotherapeutic drug that is widely used for treating glioblastoma is temozolomide, a DNA alkylating agent. Its impact, however, is only minor; it increases patients' survival just by 12 to 14 months. Multiple highly selective compounds that affect specific proteins and have performed well in other types of cancer have proved ineffective against glioblastoma. Hence, there is an urgent need for novel methods that could help achieve the long-awaited progress in glioblastoma treatment. One of the potentially promising approaches is the targeting of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). These molecules are characterized by extremely high multifunctionality and often act as integrators by coordinating multiple key signaling pathways within the cell. Thus, the impact on ncRNAs has the potential to lead to a broader and stronger impact on cells, as opposed to the more focused action of inhibitors targeting specific proteins. In this review, we summarize the functions of long noncoding RNAs, circular RNAs, as well as microRNAs, PIWI-interacting RNAs, small nuclear and small nucleolar RNAs. We provide a classification of these transcripts and describe their role in various signaling pathways and physiological processes. We also provide examples of oncogenic and tumor suppressor ncRNAs belonging to each of these classes in the context of their involvement in the pathogenesis of gliomas and glioblastomas. In conclusion, we considered the potential use of ncRNAs as diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets for the treatment of glioblastoma.

miR-451 suppresses EMT and metastasis in glioma cells

The metastasis of tumor cells is a challenge for the clinical treatment of glioma. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) contributes to glioma cell invasiveness. Our previous study confirmed that the expression of miRNA-451, which inhibits the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway by directly targeting CAB39 and plays a repressive role in glioma, is downregulated in glioma. However, the specific mechanism of miRNA-451 regulation in glioma is unclear. In this study, we investigated whether miRNA-451 blocks the processes of EMT and metastasis in glioma cells in vivo and in vitro. By targeting CAB39, miRNA-451 likely triggers the PI3K/Akt/Snail signaling pathway to reduce glioma proliferation, invasion, migration and EMT. We used Western blotting experiments to demonstrate that overexpression of miRNA-451 significantly reduced p-AKT(Ser473), N-cadherin, Vimentin, Twist, Snail and Cyclin D1 expression and increased E-cadherin expression. We demonstrated that overexpression of miR-451 suppressed glioma cell proliferation, invasion, migration and EMT by MTT and colony formation assays, Transwell assays, wound healing assays and animal experiments. Taken together, these results suggest that miRNA-451 can reduce EMT and metastasis in glioma cells through the suppression of the PI3K/Akt/Snail signaling pathway by targeting CAB39 in vitro and in vivo. miR-451 may be a new target for glioma treatment.

LncRNA LINC01305 promotes cervical cancer progression through KHSRP and exosome-mediated transfer

Cervical cancer (CC) is one of the deadliest female malignancies worldwide. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are essential regulators for cancer progression. This study aimed to elucidate the role of lncRNA LINC01305 in the progression of CC. We found where LINC01305 was expressed in CC tissues and its correlation with the survival rate of CC patients. Functional experiments were performed to elucidate the effect of LINC01305 on CC. The results showed that LINC01305 was increased in CC tumor tissues and was correlated with a lower survival rate. The overexpression and knockdown of LINC01305 enhanced and inhibited the progression of CC, respectively. Additionally, the upregulation of LINC01305 promoted tumor growth in xenograft mice. Moreover, the effect of LINC01305 on CC was mediated through interacting with the RNA-binding protein, KHSRP. Furthermore, LINC01305 was mainly distributed in exosomes and was transferred to recipient cells to enhance CC progression. Lastly, LINC01305 may participate in the regulation of the stemness of CC. Taken together, the results suggest that LINC01305 promotes the progression of CC through KHSRP and that LINC01305 is released through exosomes and is involved in the stemness of CC. This study sheds light on the molecular mechanism underlying the progression of CC.

The role of miRNAs in polycystic ovary syndrome with insulin resistance

PURPOSE

This review aims to summarize the key findings of several miRNAs and their roles in polycystic ovary syndrome with insulin resistance, characterize the disease pathogenesis, and establish a new theoretical basis for diagnosing, treating, and preventing polycystic ovary syndrome.

METHODS

Relevant scientific literature was covered from 1992 to 2020 by searching the PubMed database with search terms: insulin/insulin resistance, polycystic ovary syndrome, microRNAs, and metabolic diseases. References of relevant studies were cross-checked.

RESULTS

The related miRNAs (including differentially expressed miRNAs) and their roles in pathogenesis, and possible therapeutic targets and pathways, are discussed, highlighting controversies and offering thoughts for future directions.

CONCLUSION

We found abundant evidence on the role of differentially expressed miRNAs with its related phenotypes in PCOS. Considering the essential role of insulin resistance in the pathogenesis of PCOS, the alterations of associated miRNAs need more research attention. We speculate that race/ethnicity or PCOS phenotype and differences in methodological differences might lead to inconsistencies in research findings; thus, several miRNA profiles need to be investigated further to qualify for the potential therapeutic targets for PCOS-IR.

MicroRNAs at the Crossroad of the Dichotomic Pathway Cell Death vs. Stemness in Neural Somatic and Cancer Stem Cells: Implications and Therapeutic Strategies

Stemness and apoptosis may highlight the dichotomy between regeneration and demise in the complex pathway proceeding from ontogenesis to the end of life. In the last few years, the concept has emerged that the same microRNAs (miRNAs) can be concurrently implicated in both apoptosis-related mechanisms and cell differentiation. Whether the differentiation process gives rise to the architecture of brain areas, any long-lasting perturbation of miRNA expression can be related to the occurrence of neurodevelopmental/neuropathological conditions. Moreover, as a consequence of neural stem cell (NSC) transformation to cancer stem cells (CSCs), the fine modulation of distinct miRNAs becomes necessary. This event implies controlling the expression of pro/anti-apoptotic target genes, which is crucial for the management of neural/neural crest-derived CSCs in brain tumors, neuroblastoma, and melanoma. From a translational point of view, the current progress on the emerging miRNA-based neuropathology therapeutic applications and antitumor strategies will be disclosed and their advantages and shortcomings discussed.

Metformin downregulates miR223 expression in insulin-resistant 3T3L1 cells and human diabetic adipose tissue

AIMS AND DESIGNS

Metformin, an anti-diabetic drug, is the first line medication for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus and some studies show its relationship with micro-RNAs. This study set up to determine the effect of metformin on miR223 expression and content of AKT/GLUT4 proteins in insulin resistant signaling in 3T3L1 cells and adipocyte of human diabetic patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Subcutaneous adipose tissues were taken from newly diagnosed diabetic patients (HOMA-IR > 1.8), before and after three months treatment with 500 mg of metformin twice a day. Cellular homogenate was prepared and miR223 expression and AKT/GLUT4 protein expression were determined by quantitative real-time PCR and western blotting. The results were compared to insulin resistant 3T3L1 adipocytes that were treated with 10 mM Metformin.

RESULTS

MiR223 expression was significantly overexpressed both in insulin-resistant 3T3L1 adipocytes compared to non-insulin resistant adipocytes and in human diabetic adipose tissue, compared to non-diabetics (P value < 0.01). Metformin treatment downregulated miR223 expression in both adipocytes and human diabetic adipose tissue. In contrast the IRS/PI3-K/AKT pathway signaling components, Akt and GLUT4 increased in insulin-resistant 3T3L1 adipocytes and human diabetic adipose tissue after three months of metformin treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Metformin reduced insulin resistance in adipocytes by reduction of miR223 expression and improving of IRS/Akt/GLUT4 signaling pathways. Plasma miR223 expression of human diabetic patients was reduced by metformin treatment. These results point to a novel mechanism of miR223 in insulin resistance.

MicroRNA Profiling in Oesophageal Adenocarcinoma Cell Lines and Patient Serum Samples Reveals a Role for miR-451a in Radiation Resistance

Many patients with Oesophageal Adenocarcinoma (OAC) do not benefit from chemoradiotherapy treatment due to therapy resistance. To better understand the mechanisms involved in resistance and to find potential biomarkers, we investigated the association of microRNAs, which regulate gene expression, with the response to individual treatments, focusing on radiation. Intrinsic radiation resistance and chemotherapy drug resistance were assessed in eight OAC cell lines, and miRNA expression profiling was performed via TaqMan OpenArray qPCR. miRNAs discovered were either uniquely associated with resistance to radiation, cisplatin, or 5-FU, or were common to two or all three of the treatments. Target mRNA pathway analyses indicated several potential mechanisms of treatment resistance. miRNAs associated with the in vitro treatment responses were then investigated for association with pathologic response to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) in pre-treatment serums of patients with OAC. miR-451a was associated uniquely with resistance to radiation treatment in the cell lines, and with the response to nCRT in patient serums. Inhibition of miR-451a in the radiation resistant OAC cell line OE19 increased radiosensitivity (Survival Fraction 73% vs. 87%, p = 0.0003), and altered RNA expression. Pathway analysis of effected small non-coding RNAs and corresponding mRNA targets suggest potential mechanisms of radiation resistance in OAC.

SNHG1 Promotes Malignant Progression of Glioma by Targeting miR-140-5p and Regulating PI3K/AKT Pathway

PURPOSE

To explore the regulatory mechanism of long non-coding RNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 1 (SNHG1) in glioma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The expression of SNHG1 and miR-140-5p in glioma tissues and glioma cell lines (LN-18, KNS-81, and KALS-1) was determined, and the effect of the two on cell proliferation, invasion, and PI3K/AKT pathway was analyzed.

RESULTS

SNHG1 was overexpressed in glioma tissues, while miR-140-5p was underexpressed in them, and there was a significant negative correlation between SNHG1 and miR-140-5p. In addition, both down-regulation of SNHG1 and up-regulation of miR-140-5p significantly inhibited the malignant proliferation and invasion of glioma, intensified the apoptosis, and also significantly suppressed the activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway. The dual-luciferase reporter assay, RNA pull-down assay, and RIP determination all confirmed that there was a targeting relationship between SNHG1 and miR-140-5p, and there was no difference between KNS-81 and KALS-1 cells transfected with SNHG1+mimics and si-SNHG1+inhibitor and those in the si-NC group with unrelated sequences in terms of cell malignant progression.

CONCLUSION

SNHG1/miR-140-5p axis and its regulation on PI3K/AKT pathway might be a novel therapeutic direction to curb the malignant progression of glioma.

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes promote plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 expression in vascular cells in the local microenvironment during rabbit osteonecrosis of the femoral head

Background

Nontraumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head (NONFH) is a highly disabling orthopedic disease in young individuals. Plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1) has been reported to be positively associated with NONFH. We aimed to investigate the dysregulating PAI-1 in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) and vascular cells in rabbit steroid-induced NONFH.

Methods

To verify the hypothesis that BMMSCs could promote thrombus formation in a paracrine manner, we collected exosomes from glucocorticoid-treated BMMSCs (GB-Exo) to determine their regulatory effects on vascular cells. microRNA sequencing was conducted to find potential regulators in GB-Exo. Utilizing gain-of-function and knockdown approaches, we testified the regulatory effect of microRNA in exosomes.

Results

The expression of PAI-1 was significantly increased in the local microenvironment of the femoral head in the ONFH model. GB-Exo promoted PAI-1 expression in vascular smooth muscle cells and vascular endothelial cells. We also revealed that miR-451-5p in GB-Exo plays a crucial role for the elevated PAI-1. Moreover, we identified miR-133b-3p and tested its role as a potential inhibitor of PAI-1.

Conclusions

This study provided considerable evidence for BMMSC exosomal miR-mediated upregulation of the fibrinolytic regulator PAI-1 in vascular cells. The disruption of coagulation and low fibrinolysis in the femoral head will eventually lead to a disturbance in the microcirculation of NONFH. We believe that our findings could be of great significance for guiding clinical trials in the future.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-020-01991-2.

CAB39 Promotes the Proliferation of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma CNE-1 Cells via Up-Regulating p-JNK

Aim

To investigate the role of CAB39 in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) development and examine its expression level in NPC tumor samples.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry staining of NPC tissue microarray was conducted to detect the expression of CAB39 protein in NPC tissues, and the clinical significance of CAB39 was evaluated. Lentivirus-mediated over-expression of CAB39 was designed to increase CAB39 expression in CNE-1 cells. Cell colony formation, cell cycle and CCK-8 proliferation experiments were performed to compare the proliferation ability of CNE-1 cells with or without CAB39 over-expression. Western blotting was conducted to examine downstream targets of CAB39.

Results

CAB39 expression was higher in tumor samples compared to normal tissue and the higher CAB39 expression was positively correlated to higher TNM stage and distant metastasis rate and non-keratinized state. Further, CAB39 over-expression dramatically increased the proliferation and colony formation of CNE-1 cells. Finally, higher p-JNK protein level was found in CAB39 over-expressing cells.

Conclusion

CAB39 promotes the proliferation of CNE-1 cells via up-regulating p-JNK.

RNA Interference Nanotherapeutics for Treatment of Glioblastoma Multiforme

Nucleic acid therapeutics for RNA interference (RNAi) are gaining attention in the treatment and management of several kinds of the so-called "undruggable" tumors via targeting specific molecular pathways or oncogenes. Synthetic ribonucleic acid (RNAs) oligonucleotides like siRNA, miRNA, shRNA, and lncRNA have shown potential as novel therapeutics. However, the delivery of such oligonucleotides is significantly hampered by their physiochemical (such as hydrophilicity, negative charge, and instability) and biopharmaceutical features (in vivo serum stability, fast renal clearance, interaction with extracellular proteins, and hindrance in cellular internalization) that markedly reduce their biological activity. Recently, several nanocarriers have evolved as suitable non-viral vectors for oligonucleotide delivery, which are known to either complex or conjugate with these oligonucleotides efficiently and also overcome the extracellular and intracellular barriers, thereby allowing access to the tumoral micro-environment for the better and desired outcome in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). This Review focuses on the up-to-date advancements in the field of RNAi nanotherapeutics utilized for GBM treatment.

HPV16 E6/E7 promote the translocation and glucose uptake of GLUT1 by PI3K/AKT pathway via relieving miR-451 inhibitory effect on CAB39 in lung cancer cells

Background

HPV16 E6/E7 proteins are the main oncogenes and only long-term persistent infection causes lung cancer. Our previous studies have shown that HPV16 E6/E7 protein up-regulates the expression of GLUT1 in lung cancer cells. However, whether E6 and E7 protein can promote the glucose uptake of GLUT1 and its molecular mechanism are unclear.

Methods

The regulatory relationships of E6 or E7, miR-451, CAB39, PI3K/AKT, and GLUT1 were detected by double directional genetic manipulations in lung cancer cell lines. Immunofluorescence and flow cytometry were used to detect the effect of CAB39 on promoting the translocation to the plasma membrane of GLUT1. Flow cytometry and confocal microscopy were performed to detect the glucose uptake levels of GLUT1.

Results

The overexpression both E6 and E7 proteins significantly down-regulated the expression level of miR-451, and the loss of miR-451 further up-regulated the expression of its target gene CAB39 at both protein and mRNA levels. Subsequently, CAB39 up-regulated the expression of GLUT1 at both protein and mRNA levels. Our results demonstrated that HPV16 E6/E7 up-regulated the expression and activation of GLUT1 through the HPV-miR-451-CAB39-GLUT1 axis. More interestingly, we found that CAB39 prompted GLUT1 translocation to the plasma membrane and glucose uptake, and this promotion depended on the PI3K/AKT pathway.

Conclusion

Our findings provide new evidence to support the critical roles of miR-451 and CAB39 in the pathogenesis of HPV-related lung cancer.

microRNAs and Markers of Neutrophil Activation as Predictors of Early Incidental Post-Surgical Pulmonary Embolism in Patients with Intracranial Tumors

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common complication of cancer that severely increases morbidity and mortality. Patients with intracranial tumors are more likely to develop VTE than patients with cancers at other sites. Conversely, limited tools exist to identify patients with high thrombotic risk. Upon activation, neutrophils release their content through different mechanisms triggering thrombosis. We explored the ability of microRNAs (miRNAs) and plasma markers of neutrophil activation measured before surgery to predict the risk of early post-surgical pulmonary embolism (PE) in glioma and meningioma patients. We recruited and prospectively followed 50 patients with glioma and 50 with meningioma, 34% of whom in each group developed an early objectively-diagnosed post-surgical PE. We measured miRNA expression and neutrophil markers (cell-free DNA, nucleosomes, calprotectin and myeloperoxidase) before surgery. In glioma patients, we adjusted and validated a predictive model for post-surgical PE with 6 miRNAs: miR-363-3p, miR-93-3p, miR-22-5p, miR-451a, miR-222-3p and miR-140-3p (AUC = 0.78; 95% Confidence Interval (CI) [0.63, 0.94]) and another with cfDNA and myeloperoxidase as predictors (AUC = 0.71; 95% CI [0.52, 0.90]). Furthermore, we combined both types of markers and obtained a model with myeloperoxidase and miR-140-3p as predictors (AUC = 0.79; 95% CI [0.64, 0.94]). In meningioma patients we fitted and validated a predictive model with 6 miRNAs: miR-29a-3p, miR-660-5p, miR-331-3p, miR-126-5p, miR-23a-3p and miR-23b-3p (AUC = 0.69; 95% CI [0.52, 0.87]). All our models outperformed the Khorana score. This is the first study that analyzes the capability of plasma miRNAs and neutrophil activation markers to predict early post-surgical PE in glioma and meningioma patients. The estimation of the thrombotic risk before surgery may promote a tailored thromboprophylaxis in a selected group of high-risk patients, in order to minimize the incidence of PE and avoid bleedings.

Brain Ischemia Significantly Alters microRNA Expression in Human Peripheral Blood Natural Killer Cells

Brain ischemia induces systemic immunosuppression and increases a host's susceptibility to infection. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are molecular switches in immune cells, but the alterations of miRNAs in human immune cells in response to brain ischemia and their impact on immune defense remain elusive. Natural killer (NK) cells are critical for early host defenses against pathogens. In this study, we identified reduced counts, cytokine production, and cytotoxicity in human peripheral blood NK cells obtained from patients with acute ischemic stroke. The extent of NK cell loss of number and activity was associated with infarct volume. MicroRNA sequencing analysis revealed that brain ischemia significantly altered miRNA expression profiles in circulating NK cells, in which miRNA-451a and miRNA-122-5p were dramatically upregulated. Importantly, inhibition of miR-451a or miR-122-5p augmented the expression of activation-associated receptors in NK cells. These results provide the first evidence that brain ischemia alters miRNA signatures in human NK cells.

miR-451 Loaded Exosomes Are Released by the Renal Cells in Response to Injury and Associated With Reduced Kidney Function in Human

Micro-RNAs (miRs) encapsulated inside urinary exosomes (uEs) have the potential as early biomarkers. Previously, we reported that a rise in uE miR-451 predicted albuminuria in diabetic rats; however, whether the rise was protective or detrimental, and occurred in response to injury or general hyperglycemia, was unknown. To address this, we studied both human and rat models of renal disease. In humans, uE miR-451 was approximately twofold higher in subjects with early-stage chronic kidney disease (CKD; serum creatinine < 2.0 mg/dl; n = 28), as compared to age-matched healthy controls (n = 23), and had a significant negative correlation with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (r² = −0.10, p = 0.01). Subgroup analysis of CKD subjects showed that those without diabetes had slightly (∼30%) but significantly higher uE miR-451 as compared to those with diabetes, with no differences in albumin excretion, eGFR, serum sodium, and potassium. Using human proximal tubule (hPT) cells, we found that locked nucleic acid (LNA) inhibition of miR-451 resulted in a significant increase in the messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of kidney-injury-associated miR-451 targets, e.g., CAB39, TBX1, and YWHAZ, as compared to treatment with a control LNA. Moreover, hPT cells and their secreted exosomes showed an increase in miR-451 in response to mechanical injury but not high glucose (20 versus 5 mM). For further proof of concept, in diabetic rats, we showed that atorvastatin (AT), a treatment proven to attenuate renal injury without affecting systemic glucose levels, reduced uE miR-451 with the concomitant restoration of renal miR-451. These data elucidate the stimuli for renal miR-451 expression and exosomal release and support its role as a therapeutic target and early biomarker for renal injury in humans.

Knockdown of lncRNA SNHG12 suppresses cell proliferation, migration and invasion in breast cancer by sponging miR-451a

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer (BC) is a common cancer with high incidence in women worldwide. Although there are some studies focusing on the pathogenesis of BC, the regulatory mechanism needs to be further investigated. The function of lncRNA and miRNA has been demonstrated to participate in cell progression of BC. However, the function of SNHG12 has not been clearly elucidated.

METHODS

We detected the expression of SNHG12 and miR-451a using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). The protein expression of AKT, p-AKT, mTOR and p-mTOR were measured using western blot. The relationship between SNHG12 and miR-451a was confirmed by luciferase reporter assay. Cell proliferation was measured using MTT assay. Transwell assay was used to detect cell migration and invasion. Xenograft transplantation was used to detect the function of SNHG12 in vivo.

RESULTS

In this study, we found that SNHG12 was significantly increased in BC tissues and cells. Knockdown of SNHG12 inhibited BC cell proliferation, invasion, and migration in vitro as well as suppressed tumor growth in vivo. In addition, miR-451a expression was obviously down-regulated in BC tissues and had negative correlation with SNHG12. Luciferase reporter assay determined that miR-451a was a target miRNA of SNHG12. Notably, SNHG12 knockdown decreased cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and AKT/mTOR pathway activation which could be reversed by down-regulation of miR-451a.

CONCLUSION

Knockdown of SNHG12 inhibited cell proliferation, invasion, and migration by regulating miR-451a through suppression of AKT/mTOR pathway in BC.

MiR-107 confers chemoresistance to colorectal cancer by targeting calcium-binding protein 39

Background

Chemoresistance remains a critical event that accounts for colorectal cancer (CRC) lethality. The aim of this study is to explore the ability of dichloroacetate (DCA) to increase chemosensitivity in CRC and the molecular mechanisms involved.

Methods

The effects of combination treatment of DCA and oxaliplatin (L-OHP) were analysed both in vitro and in vivo. The DCA-responsive proteins in AMPK pathway were enriched using proteomic profiling technology. The effect of DCA on CAB39–AMPK signal pathway was analysed. In addition, miRNA expression profiles after DCA treatment were determined. The DCA-responsive miRNAs that target CAB39 were assayed. Alterations of CAB39 and miR-107 expression were performed both in vitro and on xenograft models to identify miR-107 that targets CAB39–AMPK–mTOR signalling pathway.

Results

DCA increased L-OHP chemosensitivity both in vivo and in vitro. DCA could upregulate CAB39 expression, which activates the AMPK/mTOR signalling pathway. CAB39 was confirmed to be a direct target of miR-107 regulated by DCA. Alterations of miR-107 expression were correlated with chemoresistance development in CRC both in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that the miR-107 induces chemoresistance through CAB39–AMPK–mTOR pathway in CRC cells, thus providing a promising target for overcoming chemoresistance in CRC.

MicroRNA-451b Participates in Coronary Heart Disease By Targeting VEGFA

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the main causes of hospitalization worldwide and has high morbidity. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play an important role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. miR-451 is a special miRNA that is involved in many cancers' development. At present, there is no research about miR-451 in coronary heart disease. In this study, we aimed to identify the action mechanism of miR-451 in coronary heart disease and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). In this study, we found that miR-451 is up-regulated in the peripheral blood of patients with coronary heart disease. Moreover, TargetScan and dual-luciferase reporter gene assay results showed that VEGFA is a direct target gene of miR-451. C (CCK-8) and flow cytometry assay results showed that miR-451 mimic significantly inhibits cell proliferation and promotes apoptosis in HUVECs. Moreover, we found that the role of miR-451 in HUVECs is associated with the PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway. Taken together, the data indicates that miR-451 might be a novel bio-marker for coronary heart disease.

Exploratory study on microRNA profiles from plasma-derived extracellular vesicles in Alzheimer's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies

Background

Because of the increasing life expectancy in our society, aging-related neurodegenerative disorders are one of the main issues in global health. Most of these diseases are characterized by the deposition of misfolded proteins and a progressive cognitive decline. Among these diseases, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) are the most common types of degenerative dementia. Although both show specific features, an important neuropathological and clinical overlap between them hampers their correct diagnosis. In this work, we identified molecular biomarkers aiming to improve the misdiagnosis between both diseases.

Methods

Plasma extracellular vesicles (EVs) -from DLB, AD and healthy controls- were isolated using size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) and characterized by flow cytometry, Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA) and cryo-electron microscopy. Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) and related bibliographic search was performed and a selected group of EV-associated microRNAs (miRNAs) was analysed by qPCR.

Results

Results uncovered two miRNAs (hsa-miR-451a and hsa-miR-21-5p) significantly down-regulated in AD samples respect to DLB patients, and a set of four miRNAs (hsa-miR-23a-3p, hsa-miR-126-3p, hsa-let-7i-5p, and hsa-miR-151a-3p) significantly decreased in AD respect to controls. The two miRNAs showing decreased expression in AD in comparison to DLB provided area under the curve (AUC) values of 0.9 in ROC curve analysis, thus suggesting their possible use as biomarkers to discriminate between both diseases. Target gene analysis of these miRNAs using prediction online tools showed accumulation of phosphorylation enzymes, presence of proteasome-related proteins and genes involved in cell death among others.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that plasma-EV associated miRNAs may reflect a differential profile for a given dementia-related disorder which, once validated in larger cohorts of patients, could help to improve the differential diagnosis of DLB versus AD.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s40035-019-0169-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Genetic and molecular bases of esophageal Cancer among Iranians: an update

Abstract

Background

Esophageal cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer related deaths among the Iranians. There is still a high ratio of mortality and low 5 years survival which are related to the late onset and diagnosis. Majority of patients refer for the treatment in advanced stages of tumor progression.

Main body

It is required to define an efficient local panel of diagnostic and prognostic markers for the Iranians. Indeed such efficient specific panel of markers will pave the way to decrease the mortality rate and increase the 5 years survival among the Iranian patients via the early diagnosis and targeted therapy.

Conclusion

in present review we have reported all of the molecular markers in different signaling pathways and cellular processes which have been assessed among the Iranian esophageal cancer patients until now.

Inhibition of the aberrant A1CF-FAM224A-miR-590-3p-ZNF143 positive feedback loop attenuated malignant biological behaviors of glioma cells

Background

Glioma is the most common and lethal type of malignant brain tumor. Accumulating evidence has highlighted that RNA binding protein APOBEC1 complementation factor (A1CF) is involved in various cellular processes by modulating RNA expression, and acts as an oncogene in breast cancer. However, the function of A1CF in glioma remained unclear.

Methods

Quantitative RT-PCR and western blot analysis were employed to detect the expression levels of A1CF, lncRNA family with sequence similarity 224 member A (FAM224A), miR-590-3p, zinc finger protein 143 (ZNF143) and ArfGAP with SH3 domain, ankyrin repeat and PH domain 3 (ASAP3) in glioma tissues and cell lines. The Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, migration and invasion assays, and flow cytometry analysis were conducted to evaluate the function of A1CF, FAM224A, miR-590-3p, ZNF143 and ASAP3 in the malignant biological behaviors of glioma cells. Moreover, luciferase reporter, RIP and ChIP assays were used to investigate the interactions among A1CF, FAM224A, miR-590-3p, ZNF143, ASAP3 and MYB. Finally, the xenograft tumor growth assay further ascertained the biological roles of A1CF, FAM224A and miR-590-3p in glioma cells.

Results

A1CF was upregulated and functioned as an oncogene via stabilizing and increasing FAM224A expression; moreover, high A1CF and FAM224A expression levels indicated a poorer prognosis for glioma patients. Conversely, miR-590-3p was downregulated and exerted a tumor-suppressive function in glioma cells. Inhibition of A1CF significantly restrained cell proliferation, migration and invasion, and promoted apoptosis by upregulating miR-590-3p in a FAM224A-dependent manner. FAM224A was a molecular sponge of miR-590-3p and they were in an RNA-induced silencing complex. ZNF143 was upregulated in glioma tissues and cell lines. MiR-590-3p could negatively modulate the expression of ZNF143 via binding to the ZNF143 3′ UTR. Moreover, ZNF143 participated in miR-590-3p-induced tumor-suppressive activity on glioma cells. ASAP3 and MYB were transcriptionally activated by ZNF143, and importantly, ZNF143 could directly target the promoter of FAM224A and stimulate its expression, collectively forming a positive feedback loop.

Conclusions

The present study clarifies that the A1CF-FAM224A-miR-590-3p-ZNF143 positive feedback loop conducts critical regulatory effects on the malignant progression of glioma cells, which provides a novel molecular target for glioma therapy.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13046-019-1200-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Identification of Serum MicroRNAs as Novel Biomarkers in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Using Feature Selection Algorithms

Introduction: Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) are promising molecular biomarkers for the early detection of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). We investigated the serum miRNA expression profiles from microarray-based technologies and evaluated the diagnostic value of serum miRNAs as potential biomarkers for ESCC by using feature selection algorithms. Methods: Serum miRNA expression profiles were obtained from 52 ESCC patients and 52 age- and sex-matched controls via performing a high-throughput microarray assay. Five representative feature selection algorithms including the false discovery rate procedure, family-wise error rate procedure, Lasso logistic regression, hybrid huberized support vector machine (SVM), and SVM using the squared-error loss with the elastic-net penalty were jointly carried out to select the significantly differentially expressed miRNAs based on the miRNA profiles. Results: Three miRNAs including miR-16-5p, miR-451a, and miR-574-5p were identified as the powerful biomarkers for the diagnosis of ESCC. The diagnostic accuracy of the combination of these three miRNAs was evaluated by using logistic regression and the SVM. The averages of the area under the receiver operating curve and classification accuracies based on different classifiers were more than 0.80 and 0.79, respectively. The cross-validation results suggested that the three-miRNA-based classifiers could clearly distinguish ESCC patients from healthy controls. Moreover, the classifying performance of the miRNA panel persisted in discriminating the healthy group from patients with ESCC stage I-II (AUC > 0.76) and patients with ESCC stage III-IV (AUC > 0.80). Conclusions: These results in this study have moved forward the identification of novel biomarkers for the diagnosis of ESCC.

Down-regulation of ABCE1 inhibits temozolomide resistance in glioma through the PI3K/Akt/NF-κB signaling pathway

The ATP binding cassette (ABC) E1 (ABCE1), a member of the ABC family, was originally described as the RNase L inhibitor. Through forming a heterodimer with RNase L, ABCE1 participates in the negative regulation of the 2-5A/RNase L system and thus mediates a wide range of biological functions. Recent evidence has shown the new roles of ABCE1 in tumorigenesis. However, there have been no investigations on the specific effect of ABCE1 on glioma. In the present study, we examined the expression pattern and possible role of ABCE1 in glioma. Our study demonstrated that ABCE1 was up-regulated in glioma tissues and cell lines. Down-regulation of ABCE1 inhibited temozolomide (TMZ) resistance of glioma cells in vitro and in vivo In addition, we found that the PI3K/Akt/NF-κB pathway was involved in ABCE1-mediated chemoresistance of glioma cells. Taken together, our study suggested ABCE1 as a promising target for glioma chemotherapy.

MicroRNA-451a overexpression induces accelerated neuronal differentiation of Ntera2/D1 cells and ablation affects neurogenesis in microRNA-451a-/- mice

MiR-451a is best known for its role in erythropoiesis and for its tumour suppressor features. Here we show a role for miR-451a in neuronal differentiation through analysis of endogenous and ectopically expressed or silenced miR-451a in Ntera2/D1 cells during neuronal differentiation. Furthermore, we compared neuronal differentiation in the dentate gyrus of hippocampus of miR-451a^-/- and wild type mice. MiR-451a overexpression in lentiviral transduced Ntera2/D1 cells was associated with a significant shifting of mRNA expression of the developmental markers Nestin, βIII Tubulin, NF200, DCX and MAP2 to earlier developmental time points, compared to control vector transduced cells. In line with this, accelerated neuronal network formation in AB.G.miR-451a transduced cells, as well as an increase in neurite outgrowth both in number and length was observed. MiR-451a targets genes MIF, AKT1, CAB39, YWHAZ, RAB14, TSC1, OSR1, POU3F2, TNS4, PSMB8, CXCL16, CDKN2D and IL6R were, moreover, either constantly downregulated or exhibited shifted expression profiles in AB.G.miR-451a transduced cells. Lentiviral knockdown of endogenous miR-451a expression in Ntera2/D1 cells resulted in decelerated differentiation. Endogenous miR-451a expression was upregulated during development in the hippocampus of wildtype mice. In situ hybridization revealed intensively stained single cells in the subgranular zone and the hilus of the dentate gyrus of wild type mice, while genetic ablation of miR-451a was observed to promote an imbalance between proliferation and neuronal differentiation in neurogenic brain regions, suggested by Ki67 and DCX staining. Taken together, these results provide strong support for a role of miR-451a in neuronal maturation processes in vitro and in vivo.

miR-126 Suppresses Invasion and Migration of Malignant Glioma by Targeting Mature T Cell Proliferation 1 (MTCP1)

BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to assess the utility of miR-126 in promoting malignant glioma progression and determine if miR-126 might be a target for malignant glioma treatment. MATERIAL AND METHODS The expression of miR-126 in malignant glioma tissues and cells was detected by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Western blot analysis was used to detect changes in protein levels. Transwell assay was applied to assess the migration and invasion in vitro. Luciferase reporter assay was used to confirm the binding of miR-126 and mature T cell proliferation 1 (MTCP1). A nude mouse tumor model was used to assess the molecular mechanism in vivo. RESULTS The expression level of miR-126 in patients with stage III~IV malignant glioma was significant lower than that in patients with stage I~II. In different malignant glioma cell lines, the expression was significantly reduced in U87MG. Compared with the control mimics group, the expression of MTCP1 was significantly decreased. The results of Transwell assay showed that the invasiveness and migration in the miR-126 mimics group was significantly lower than in the control mimics groups. miR-126 mimics did not affect luciferase activity in the Mut-miR-126/MTCP1 group, while miR-126 mimics reduced luciferase activity by 54% in the Wt-miR-126/MTCP1 group. The results of invasion showed that the invasion ability in the miR-126 inhibitor group was significantly increased compared with that in the normal control (NC) group, while the invasion and migration abilities in the MTCP1 siRNA group were significantly increased. After 6 weeks, the tumor volume in the miR-126 inhibitor group was significantly increased, while that in the MTCP1 siRNA group was significantly decreased. CONCLUSIONS miR-126 inhibits the migration of malignant glioma cells by inhibiting MTCP1.

Long noncoding RNA MALAT1 in exosomes drives regenerative function and modulates inflammation-linked networks following traumatic brain injury

BACKGROUND

Neuroinflammation is a common therapeutic target for traumatic brain injury (TBI) due to its contribution to delayed secondary cell death and has the potential to occur for years after the initial insult. Exosomes from adipose-derived stem cells (hASCs) containing the long noncoding RNA MALAT1 are a novel, cell-free regenerative approach to long-term recovery after traumatic brain injury (TBI) that have the potential to modulate inflammation at the genomic level. The long noncoding RNA MALAT1 has been shown to be an important component of the secretome of hASCs.

METHODS

We isolated exosomes from hASC containing or depleted of MALAT1. The hASC-derived exosomes were then administered intravenously to rats following a mild controlled cortical impact (CCI). We followed the rats with behavior, in vivo imaging, histology, and RNA sequencing (RNA Seq).

RESULTS

Using in vivo imaging, we show that exosomes migrate into the spleen within 1 h following administration and enter the brain several hours later following TBI. Significant recovery of function on motor behavior as well as a reduction in cortical brain injury was observed after TBI in rats treated with exosomes. Treatment with either exosomes depleted of MALAT1 or conditioned media depleted of exosomes showed limited regenerative effects, demonstrating the importance of MALAT1 in exosome-mediated recovery. Analysis of the brain and spleen transcriptome using RNA Seq showed MALAT1-dependent modulation of inflammation-related pathways, cell cycle, cell death, and regenerative molecular pathways. Importantly, our data demonstrates that MALAT1 regulates expression of other noncoding RNAs including snoRNAs.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrate that MALAT1 in hASC-derived exosomes modulates multiple therapeutic targets, including inflammation, and has tremendous therapeutic potential for treatment of TBI.

microRNA-451a regulates colorectal cancer proliferation in response to radiation

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer-related death. The biologic response of CRC to standard of care adjuvant therapies such as chemotherapy and radiation are poorly understood. MicroRNAs (miRs) have been shown to affect CRC progression and metastasis. Therefore, we hypothesized that specific miRs modulate CRC response to chemoradiation.

METHODS

In this study, we used miR expression profiling and discovered a set of microRNAs upregulated rapidly in response to either a single 2 Gy dose fraction or a 10 Gy dose of γ-radiation in mouse colorectal carcinoma models. We used gain and loss-of-function studies in 2D and 3Dcell proliferation assays and colony formation assays to understand the role of the top miR candidate from our profiling. We used Student's T-tests for simple comparisons and two-factor ANOVA for evaluating significance.

RESULTS

The most upregulated candidate at early time points in our signature, miR-451a inhibited tumor cell proliferation and attenuated surviving fraction in longer-term cultures. Conversely, inhibition of miR-451a increased proliferation, tumorsphere formation, and surviving fraction of tumor cells. Using a bioinformatics approach, we identified four genes, CAB39, EMSY, MEX3C, and EREG, as targets of miR-451a. Transfection of miR-451a decreased both mRNA and protein levels of these targets. Importantly, we found miR-451a expression was high and CAB39, EMSY levels were low in a small subset of rectal cancer patients who had a partial response to chemoradiation when compared to patients that had no response. Finally, analysis of a TCGA colorectal cancer dataset revealed that CAB39 and EMSY are upregulated at the protein level in a significant number of CRC patients. Higher levels of CAB39 and EMSY correlated with poorer overall survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, our data indicates miR-451a is induced by radiation and may influence colorectal carcinoma proliferation via CAB39 and EMSY pathways.

MicroRNA-21 promotes glioma cell proliferation and inhibits senescence and apoptosis by targeting SPRY1 via the PTEN/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway

AIMS

Our study aims to investigate the effect of microRNA-21 (miR-21) on the proliferation, senescence, and apoptosis of glioma cells by targeting SPRY1 via the PTEN/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

METHODS

Glioma tissues and brain tissues were collected for this study after surgical decompression for traumatic brain injury. RT-qPCR was employed to measure mRNA levels of miR-21, SPRY1, PTEN, PI3K, and AKT, and Western blotting was conducted to determine protein levels of SPRY1, PTEN, PI3K, AKT, p-AKT, Caspase-3, Caspase-9, P53, GSK3, and p-GSK3. Human glioma U87 cells were assigned into the blank, negative control (NC), miR-21 mimics, miR-21 inhibitors, siRNA-SPRY1, and miR-21 inhibitors + siRNA-SPRY1 groups, with human HEB cells serving as the normal group. Cell proliferation, cell cycle, and apoptosis were determined by MTT and flow cytometry, respectively.

RESULTS

Compared with control group, an increased expression of miR-21, PI3K, AKT, p-AKT, P53, and p-GSK3, and a decreased expression of SPRY1, PTEN, Caspase-3, and Caspase-9 were observed in the glioma group, and no significant differences were found in the expression of GSK3. SPRY1 was verified to be the target gene of miR-21. Compared with the blank and NC groups, levels of PI3K, AKT, p-AKT, P53, and p-GSK3 increased while levels of SPRY1, PTEN, Caspase-3, and Caspase-9 decreased in the miR-21 mimics and siRNA-SPRY1 groups; the miR-21 inhibitors group reversed the tendency; furthermore, the miR-21 inhibitors group showed decreased cell proliferation but promoted apoptosis, which were opposite to the results of the miR-21 mimics and siRNA-SPRY1 groups.

CONCLUSION

MicroRNA-21 might promote cell proliferation and inhibit cell senescence and apoptosis of human glioma cells by targeting SPRY1 via the PTEN/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

miR-182 and miR-135b Mediate the Tumorigenesis and Invasiveness of Colorectal Cancer Cells via Targeting ST6GALNAC2 and PI3K/AKT Pathway

BACKGROUND

Metastasis is a leading cause of cancer-related death including colorectal cancer (CRC). MicroRNAs are known to regulate cancer pathways and to be expressed aberrantly in cancer. Aberrant sialylation is closely associated with malignant phenotype of tumor cells, including invasiveness and metastasis.

AIM

This study aimed to investigate the association of miR-182 and miR-135b with proliferation and invasion by targeting sialyltransferase ST6GALNAC2 in CRC cells and explore the potential molecular mechanism.

METHODS

We measured the levels of miR-182, miR-135b, and ST6GALNAC2 in a series of CRC cell lines and tissues using real-time PCR. Bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assay were performed to test the direct binding of miR-182 and miR-135b to the target gene ST6GALNAC2. We also analyzed the possible role of miR-182/-135b on colony formation, wound healing, invasion, and tube formation.

RESULTS

The expression of miR-182 and miR-135b was higher in tumor tissues compared to adjacent noncancerous tissues of CRC patients, as well as up-regulated in SW620 cells than in SW480 cells with different metastatic potential. By applying bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assay, we identified ST6GALNAC2 as the direct target of miR-182/-135b. Furthermore, miR-182/-135b inhibited significantly ST6GALNAC2 expression, and consistently, ST6GALNAC2 mediated migration, adhesion, invasion, proliferation, and tumor angiogenesis in CRC cell lines. Additionally, PI3K/AKT signaling pathway was regulated by miR-182/135b, which was partially blocked by altered level of ST6GALNAC2 in CRC.

CONCLUSIONS

The miR-182/-135b/ST6GALNAC2/PI3K/AKT axis may serve as a predictive biomarker and a potential therapeutic target in CRC treatment.

Understanding and Resetting Radiation Sensitivity in Rectal Cancer

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to explore specific microRNAs (miRs) in rectal cancer that would predict response to radiation and identify target pathways that may be exploited for neoadjuvant therapies.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Chemoradiotherapy (CRT) response is a predictor of survival in rectal cancer. Studies have demonstrated changes in RNA expression correlate with chemoradiation sensitivity across cancers.

METHODS

Forty-five rectal cancer patients, partial responders (PR = 18), nonresponders (NR = 13), and complete responders (CR = 14) to CRT, as defined by a tumor regression score, were examined. miRs differentially expressed, using NanoString microArray profiling, were validated with qPCR. We quantified 1 miR and its downstream targets in patient samples. Chemosensitivity was measured in HCT-116, a human colorectal carcinoma cell line, using inhibitors of SHP2 and RAF.

RESULTS

miR-451a, 502-5p, 223-3p, and 1246 were the most upregulated miRs (>1.5-fold change) in a NanoString profiling miR panel. qPCR revealed a decrease in expression of miR-451a in NRs. EMSY and CAB39, both downstream targets of miR-451a and involved in carcinogenesis (shown in TCGA) were increased in NRs (qPCR). Both targets are associated with worse survival in colorectal cancer. Inhibition of miR-451a in HCT-116 cells significantly decreased cell proliferation with treatment of SHP2 and RAF inhibitors.

CONCLUSIONS

An integrated analysis of rectal cancer miRs may yield biomarkers of radioresistance and offer treatment targets for resensitization.

Expression of Serum microRNAs is Altered During Acute Graft-versus-Host Disease

Acute graft-versus-host disease (aGvHD) is the most frequent and serious complication following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), with a high mortality rate. A clearer understanding of the molecular pathogenesis may allow for improved therapeutic options or guide personalized prophylactic protocols. Circulating microRNAs are expressed in body fluids and have recently been associated with the etiology of aGvHD, but global expression profiling in a HSCT setting is lacking. This study profiled expression of n = 799 mature microRNAs in patient serum, using the NanoString platform, to identify microRNAs that showed altered expression at aGvHD diagnosis. Selected microRNAs (n = 10) were replicated in independent cohorts of serum samples taken at aGvHD diagnosis (n = 42) and prior to disease onset (day 14 post-HSCT, n = 47) to assess their prognostic potential. Sera from patients without aGvHD were used as controls. Differential microRNAs were investigated in silico for predicted networks and mRNA targets. Expression analysis identified 61 microRNAs that were differentially expressed at aGvHD diagnosis. miR-146a (p = 0.03), miR-30b-5p (p = 0.007), miR-374-5p (p = 0.02), miR-181a (p = 0.03), miR-20a (p = 0.03), and miR-15a (p = 0.03) were significantly verified in an independent cohort (n = 42). miR-146a (p = 0.01), miR-20a (p = 0.03), miR-18 (p = 0.03), miR-19a (p = 0.03), miR-19b (p = 0.01), and miR-451 (p = 0.01) were differentially expressed 14 days post-HSCT in patients who later developed aGvHD (n = 47). High miR-19b expression was associated with improved overall survival (OS) (p = 0.008), whereas high miR-20a and miR-30b-5p were associated with lower rates of non-relapse mortality (p = 0.05 and p = 0.008) and improved OS (p = 0.016 and p = 0.021). Pathway analysis associated the candidate microRNAs with hematological and inflammatory disease. Circulating biofluid microRNAs show altered expression at aGvHD onset and have the capacity to act as prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers. Their differential expression in serum suggests a role for circulatory microRNAs in aGvHD pathology, which warrants further investigation.

MiR-451 Promotes Cell Proliferation and Metastasis in Pancreatic Cancer through Targeting CAB39

Emerging evidence shows that microRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in the regulation of various biological and pathologic processes in human cancers and the aberrant expression of miRNAs contributes to the tumor development. In this study, our findings indicate that miR-451 is significantly overexpressed in pancreatic cancer tissues and cell lines and elevated expression of miR-451 contributes to promoted cell viability (in vitro and in vivo). Moreover, overexpression of miR-451 is closely linked to poor prognosis and lymphatic metastasis. Inhibition of miR-451 dramatically suppresses cell viability and invasion, promotes cell apoptosis, and induces cell cycle arrest. Furthermore, miR-451 directly targets CAB39 and negatively regulates its expression and inhibition of CAB39 contributes to the promoted cell viability and invasion. Our findings improve our understanding of the function of miR-451 in the identification and therapy of pancreatic cancer.

High Throughput Sequencing of Extracellular RNA from Human Plasma

The presence and relative stability of extracellular RNAs (exRNAs) in biofluids has led to an emerging recognition of their promise as ‘liquid biopsies’ for diseases. Most prior studies on discovery of exRNAs as disease-specific biomarkers have focused on microRNAs (miRNAs) using technologies such as qRT-PCR and microarrays. The recent application of next-generation sequencing to discovery of exRNA biomarkers has revealed the presence of potential novel miRNAs as well as other RNA species such as tRNAs, snoRNAs, piRNAs and lncRNAs in biofluids. At the same time, the use of RNA sequencing for biofluids poses unique challenges, including low amounts of input RNAs, the presence of exRNAs in different compartments with varying degrees of vulnerability to isolation techniques, and the high abundance of specific RNA species (thereby limiting the sensitivity of detection of less abundant species). Moreover, discovery in human diseases often relies on archival biospecimens of varying age and limiting amounts of samples. In this study, we have tested RNA isolation methods to optimize profiling exRNAs by RNA sequencing in individuals without any known diseases. Our findings are consistent with other recent studies that detect microRNAs and ribosomal RNAs as the major exRNA species in plasma. Similar to other recent studies, we found that the landscape of biofluid microRNA transcriptome is dominated by several abundant microRNAs that appear to comprise conserved extracellular miRNAs. There is reasonable correlation of sets of conserved miRNAs across biological replicates, and even across other data sets obtained at different investigative sites. Conversely, the detection of less abundant miRNAs is far more dependent on the exact methodology of RNA isolation and profiling. This study highlights the challenges in detecting and quantifying less abundant plasma miRNAs in health and disease using RNA sequencing platforms.

Serum miR-451a Levels Are Significantly Elevated in Women With Endometriosis and Recapitulated in Baboons ( Papio anubis) With Experimentally-Induced Disease

We have previously demonstrated that human microRNA-451a (miR-451a) endometriotic lesion expression is significantly higher compared to that of the corresponding eutopic endometrium. The objective of the current study was to examine the relationship between lesion and serum content of miR-451a and to determine the utility of serum miR-451a in distinguishing between women with and without visible signs of endometriosis. Eighty-one participants were enrolled in this study, 41 with confirmed endometriosis and 40 without visible signs of endometriosis at laparoscopy (n = 20) or symptoms of endometriosis (pain, infertility n = 20). Experimental endometriosis was also induced in 8 baboons. Blood, endometriotic lesions, and eutopic endometrial samples were collected from women undergoing laparoscopy for surgical removal of endometriosis. Blood was also collected from control participants with no signs and symptoms associated with the disease as well as from baboons prior to, and then 1, 3, 6, 9, and 15 months postinduction of endometriosis. MicroRNA-451a was assessed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction in all samples. In humans, serum miR-451a levels positively correlated with endometriotic lesion miR-451a content, and sera levels were significantly higher in these participants compared to controls. The area under the curve (AUC) for miR-451a was 0.8599. In baboons, serum miR-451a reached statistically significant peak levels at 6 months postinduction of endometriosis. We conclude from this study that sera miR-451a levels positively correlated with endometriotic lesion content and are significantly greater compared to sera levels in women without visible signs or symptoms of endometriosis. MicroRNA-451a may serve as a serum diagnostic marker for endometriosis.

A novel signaling role for miR-451 in esophageal tumor microenvironment and its contribution to tumor progression

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated miR-451 expression in serum and tissue samples of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) patients. Then, we examined a secretory role of miR-451 in esophageal tumor microenvironment.

METHODS

miR-451 expression was evaluated in 39 serum samples from esophageal SCC patients compared to 39 normal individuals as well as 26 pairs of fresh-frozen tumor and adjacent normal tissues from patients with ESCC, using qRT-PCR. In a co-culture system of human normal fibroblasts (HFSF-PI3) and esophageal cancer cell line (KYSE-30), we evaluated exosomal miR-451 secretion into the conditioned medium (CM) of both cell lines. Then, we analyzed the effect of primiR-451-transfected fibroblasts on the migration potency of their neighboring KYSE-30 cells.

RESULTS

We detected miR-451 over-expression in serum samples of esophageal cancer patients compared to the normal group (P = 0.005). Interestingly, fresh-frozen tumor tissues from the same patients showed miR-451 down-regulation compared to their adjacent normal counterparts (P = 0.043). Co-culturing the KYSE-30 cell line with normal fibroblasts significantly induced miR-451 exosomal secretion into the CM. Moreover, co-culture of KYSE-30 cell line with miR-451-over-expressing fibroblasts significantly induced migration tendency in KYSE-30 cell line compared to the mock-transfected fibroblasts (P < 0.0001). In this system, MIF expression (a validated target of miR-451) in the KYSE-30 cell line was increased although this alteration was not statistically significant (fold change = 4.44).

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that cancer-associated fibroblasts use exosomal miR-451 as a signaling molecule to provide a favorable niche for tumor cell migration and cancer progression. Our findings provide new insights into the stromal role of miR-451 in the esophageal tumor microenvironment as a communicatory molecule and suggest a signaling role for miR-451 in extracellular matrix cross-talks.

MicroRNAs in glioblastoma multiforme pathogenesis and therapeutics

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common and lethal cancer of the adult brain, remaining incurable with a median survival time of only 15 months. In an effort to identify new targets for GBM diagnostics and therapeutics, recent studies have focused on molecular phenotyping of GBM subtypes. This has resulted in mounting interest in microRNAs (miRNAs) due to their regulatory capacities in both normal development and in pathological conditions such as cancer. miRNAs have a wide range of targets, allowing them to modulate many pathways critical to cancer progression, including proliferation, cell death, metastasis, angiogenesis, and drug resistance. This review explores our current understanding of miRNAs that are differentially modulated and pathologically involved in GBM as well as the current state of miRNA-based therapeutics. As the role of miRNAs in GBM becomes more well understood and novel delivery methods are developed and optimized, miRNA-based therapies could provide a critical step forward in cancer treatment.

MicroRNA-451: epithelial-mesenchymal transition inhibitor and prognostic biomarker of hepatocelluar carcinoma

Increasing evidence indicates that dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) plays critical roles in malignant transformation and tumor progression. Previously, we have shown that microRNA-451 (miR-451) inhibits growth, increases chemo- or radiosensitivity and reverses epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) in lung cancer. However, the roles of miR-451 in hepatocelluar carcinoma (HCC) progression and metastasis are still largely unknown. Reduced miR-451 in HCC tissues was observed to be significantly correlated with advanced clinical stage, metastasis and worse disease-free or overall survival. Through gain- and loss-of function experiments, we demonstrated that miR-451 inhibited cell growth, induced G0/G1 arrest and promoted apoptosis in HCC cells. Importantly, miR-451 could inhibit the migration and invasion in vitro, as well as in vivo metastasis of HCC cells through regulating EMT process. Moreover, the oncogene c-Myc was identified as a direct and functional target of miR-451 in HCC cells. Knockdown of c-Myc phenocopied the effects of miR-451 on EMT and metastasis of HCC cells, whereas overexpression of c-Myc partially attenuated the functions of miR-451 restoration. Furthermore, miR-451 downregulation-induced c-Myc overexpression leads to the activation of Erk1/2 signaling, which induces acquisition of EMT phenotype through regulation of GSK-3β/snail/E-cadherin and the increased expression of MMPs family members in HCC cells. Collectively, these data demonstrated that miR-451 is a novel prognostic biomarker for HCC patients and that function as a potential metastasis inhibitor in HCC cells through activation of the Erk1/2 signaling, at least partially by targeting c-Myc. Thus, targeting miR-451/c-Myc/Erk1/2 axis may be a potential strategy for the treatment of metastatic HCC.

Extracellular vesicles and intercellular communication within the nervous system

Extracellular vesicles (EVs, including exosomes) are implicated in many aspects of nervous system development and function, including regulation of synaptic communication, synaptic strength, and nerve regeneration. They mediate the transfer of packets of information in the form of nonsecreted proteins and DNA/RNA protected within a membrane compartment. EVs are essential for the packaging and transport of many cell-fate proteins during development as well as many neurotoxic misfolded proteins during pathogenesis. This form of communication provides another dimension of cellular crosstalk, with the ability to assemble a "kit" of directional instructions made up of different molecular entities and address it to specific recipient cells. This multidimensional form of communication has special significance in the nervous system. How EVs help to orchestrate the wiring of the brain while allowing for plasticity associated with learning and memory and contribute to regeneration and degeneration are all under investigation. Because they carry specific disease-related RNAs and proteins, practical applications of EVs include potential uses as biomarkers and therapeutics. This Review describes our current understanding of EVs and serves as a springboard for future advances, which may reveal new important mechanisms by which EVs in coordinate brain and body function and dysfunction.

Role of MicroRNAs in Malignant Glioma

Objective:

This overview seeked to bring together the microRNA (miRNA) researches on biogenesis and bio-function in these areas of clinical diagnosis and therapy for malignant glioma.

Data Sources:

Using the keyword terms “glioma” and “miRNA,” we performed the literature search in PubMed, Ovid, and web.metstr.com databases from their inception to October 2014.

Study Selection:

In screening out the quality of the articles, factors such as clinical setting of the study, the size of clinical samples were taken into consideration. Animal studied for verification and reviews article were also included in our data collection.

Results:

Despite many advance in miRNA for malignant glioma, further studies were still required to focus on the following aspects: (i) Improving the understanding about biogenesis of miRNA and up-down regulation; (ii) utilizing high-throughput miRNA expression analysis to screen out the core miRNA for glioma; (iii) Focusing related miRNAs on the signal transduction pathways that regulate the proliferation and growth of glioma.

Conclusions:

We discussed the most promising miRNA, correlative signaling pathway and their relation with gliomas in the way of prompting miRNA target into being a clinical therapeutic strategy.

miR-451 regulates FoxO3 nuclear accumulation through Ywhaz in human colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Our previous studies reported that miR-451 could protect against erythroid oxidant stress target gene-Ywhaz (14-3-3zeta) via inhibiting FoxO3 in the erythropoiesis. This study aimed to investigate the potential mechanism underlying the regulatory effect of miR-451 on human colorectal cancer (CRC) cells.

METHODS

In this study, expressions of miR-451 and Ywhaz in CRC tissues and adjacent normal tissues were detected by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and immunohistochemistry respectively. Human colon cancer cell lines were transfected with miR-451-MSCV-PIG retroviral vector to restore miR-451 expression. Ywhaz-3'UTR luciferase reporter assay confirmed Ywhaz as a direct target gene of miR-451. HCT116 cells and H29 cells were transfected with -shRNA-Ywhaz (pSGU6-Ywahz-shRNA-GFP) and the protein level of FoxO3 in the nucleus and cytoplasm was detected via Western blot assay. The anti-tumor effects of miR-451 were further verified in nude mice.

RESULTS

miR-451 was significantly down-regulated in human colon cancer tissues and cell lines (HCT116 and HT29), and inversely correlated with Dukes stage of colon cancer. Ywhaz was a candidate target gene of miR-451 and able to stimulate tumor growth via binding to FoxO3, inhibiting the FoxO3 nuclear accumulation.

CONCLUSION

miR-451 may inhibit the colon cancer growth in vitro and in vivo, likely through directly targeting Ywhaz and indirectly regulating the nuclear accumulation of FoxO3.