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Xing X, Rodeo SA. Emerging roles of non-coding RNAs in fibroblast to myofibroblast transition and fibrotic diseases. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1423045. [PMID: 39114349 PMCID: PMC11303237 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1423045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The transition of fibroblasts to myofibroblasts (FMT) represents a pivotal process in wound healing, tissue repair, and fibrotic diseases. This intricate transformation involves dynamic changes in cellular morphology, gene expression, and extracellular matrix remodeling. While extensively studied at the molecular level, recent research has illuminated the regulatory roles of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in orchestrating FMT. This review explores the emerging roles of ncRNAs, including microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), in regulating this intricate process. NcRNAs interface with key signaling pathways, transcription factors, and epigenetic mechanisms to fine-tune gene expression during FMT. Their functions are critical in maintaining tissue homeostasis, and disruptions in these regulatory networks have been linked to pathological fibrosis across various tissues. Understanding the dynamic roles of ncRNAs in FMT bears therapeutic promise. Targeting specific ncRNAs holds potential to mitigate exaggerated myofibroblast activation and tissue fibrosis. However, challenges in delivery and specificity of ncRNA-based therapies remain. In summary, ncRNAs emerge as integral regulators in the symphony of FMT, orchestrating the balance between quiescent fibroblasts and activated myofibroblasts. As research advances, these ncRNAs appear to be prospects for innovative therapeutic strategies, offering hope in taming the complexities of fibrosis and restoring tissue equilibrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuewu Xing
- Department of Orthopaedics, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Orthopedic Soft Tissue Research Program, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, United States
| | - Scott A. Rodeo
- Orthopedic Soft Tissue Research Program, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, United States
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2
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Zhang H, Zhou Y, Jiang C, Jian N, Wang J. Crosstalk of ubiquitin system and non-coding RNA in fibrosis. Int J Biol Sci 2024; 20:3802-3822. [PMID: 39113708 PMCID: PMC11302871 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.93644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic tissue injury triggers changes in the cell type and microenvironment at the site of injury and eventually fibrosis develops. Current research suggests that fibrosis is a highly dynamic and reversible process, which means that human intervention after fibrosis has occurred has the potential to slow down or cure fibrosis. The ubiquitin system regulates the biological functions of specific proteins involved in the development of fibrosis, and researchers have designed small molecule drugs to treat fibrotic diseases on this basis, but their therapeutic effects are still limited. With the development of molecular biology technology, researchers have found that non-coding RNA (ncRNA) can interact with the ubiquitin system to jointly regulate the development of fibrosis. More in-depth explorations of the interaction between ncRNA and ubiquitin system will provide new ideas for the clinical treatment of fibrotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huamin Zhang
- Department of Immunology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, China
| | - Yutong Zhou
- Department of Immunology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, China
| | - Canhua Jiang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, China
| | - Ni Jian
- Department of Immunology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Department of Immunology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, China
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3
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Giarratana AO, Prendergast CM, Salvatore MM, Capaccione KM. TGF-β signaling: critical nexus of fibrogenesis and cancer. J Transl Med 2024; 22:594. [PMID: 38926762 PMCID: PMC11201862 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05411-4] [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: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling pathway is a vital regulator of cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and extracellular matrix production. It functions through canonical SMAD-mediated processes and noncanonical pathways involving MAPK cascades, PI3K/AKT, Rho-like GTPases, and NF-κB signaling. This intricate signaling system is finely tuned by interactions between canonical and noncanonical pathways and plays key roles in both physiologic and pathologic conditions including tissue homeostasis, fibrosis, and cancer progression. TGF-β signaling is known to have paradoxical actions. Under normal physiologic conditions, TGF-β signaling promotes cell quiescence and apoptosis, acting as a tumor suppressor. In contrast, in pathological states such as inflammation and cancer, it triggers processes that facilitate cancer progression and tissue remodeling, thus promoting tumor development and fibrosis. Here, we detail the role that TGF-β plays in cancer and fibrosis and highlight the potential for future theranostics targeting this pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna O Giarratana
- Northwell Health - Peconic Bay Medical Center, 1 Heroes Way, Riverhead, NY, 11901, USA.
| | | | - Mary M Salvatore
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University, New York, NY, 11032, USA
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4
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Zeyada MS, Eraky SM, El-Shishtawy MM. Trigonelline mitigates bleomycin-induced pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis: Insight into NLRP3 inflammasome and SPHK1/S1P/Hippo signaling modulation. Life Sci 2024; 336:122272. [PMID: 37981228 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.122272] [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: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a chronic interstitial lung disease with an increasing incidence following the COVID-19 outbreak. Pirfenidone (Pirf), an FDA-approved pulmonary anti-fibrotic drug, is poorly tolerated and exhibits limited efficacy. Trigonelline (Trig) is a natural plant alkaloid with diverse pharmacological actions. We investigated the underlying prophylactic and therapeutic mechanisms of Trig in ameliorating bleomycin (BLM)-induced PF and the possible synergistic antifibrotic activity of Pirf via its combination with Trig. MATERIALS AND METHODS A single dose of BLM was administered intratracheally to male Sprague-Dawley rats for PF induction. In the prophylactic study, Trig was given orally 3 days before BLM and then for 28 days. In the therapeutic study, Trig and/or Pirf were given orally from day 8 after BLM until the 28th day. Biochemical assay, histopathology, qRT-PCR, ELISA, and immunohistochemistry were performed on lung tissues. KEY FINDINGS Trig prophylactically and therapeutically mitigated the inflammatory process via targeting NF-κB/NLRP3/IL-1β signaling. Trig activated the autophagy process which in turn attenuated alveolar epithelial cells apoptosis and senescence. Remarkably, Trig attenuated lung SPHK1/S1P axis and its downstream Hippo targets, YAP-1, and TAZ, with a parallel decrease in YAP/TAZ profibrotic genes. Interestingly, Trig upregulated lung miR-375 and miR-27a expression. Consequently, epithelial-mesenchymal transition in lung tissues was reversed upon Trig administration. These results were simultaneously associated with profound improvement in lung histological alterations. SIGNIFICANCE The current study verifies Trig's prophylactic and antifibrotic effects against BLM-induced PF via targeting multiple signaling. Trig and Pirf combination may be a promising approach to synergize Pirf antifibrotic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menna S Zeyada
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Salma M Eraky
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Mamdouh M El-Shishtawy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt.
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5
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Hussen BM, Saleem SJ, Abdullah SR, Mohamadtahr S, Hidayat HJ, Rasul MF, Taheri M, Kiani A. Current landscape of miRNAs and TGF-β signaling in lung cancer progression and therapeutic targets. Mol Cell Probes 2023; 72:101929. [PMID: 37683829 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcp.2023.101929] [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: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Lung cancer (LC) is the primary reason for cancer-associated fatalities globally. Due to both tumor-suppressing and tumor-promoting activities, the TGF-β family of growth factors is extremely essential to tumorigenesis. A non-coding single-stranded short RNA called microRNA (miRNA), which is made up of about 22 nt and is encoded by endogenous genes, can control normal and pathological pathways in various kinds of cancer, including LC. Recent research demonstrated that the TGF-β signaling directly can affect the synthesis of miRNAs through suppressor of mothers against decapentaplegic (SMAD)-dependent activity or other unidentified pathways, which could generate allostatic feedback as a result of TGF-β signaling stimulation and ultimately affect the destiny of cancer tissues. In this review, we emphasize the critical functions of miRNAs in lung cancer progression and, more critically, how they affect the TGF-β signaling pathway, and explore the role of both the TGF-β signaling pathway and miRNAs as potential therapeutic targets for improving the treatments of LC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bashdar Mahmud Hussen
- Department of Clinical Analysis, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Kurdistan Region, Erbil, Iraq; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cihan University-Erbil, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, 44001, Iraq
| | - Safeen Jasim Saleem
- Department of Clinical Analysis, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Kurdistan Region, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Snur Rasool Abdullah
- Medical Laboratory Science, Lebanese French University, Kurdistan Region, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Sayran Mohamadtahr
- Department of Clinical Analysis, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Kurdistan Region, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Hazha Jamal Hidayat
- Department of Biology, College of Education, Salahaddin University-Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
| | - Mohammed Fatih Rasul
- Department of Pharmaceutical Basic Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tishk International University, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
| | - Mohammad Taheri
- Institute of Human Genetics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany; Urology and Nephrology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Arda Kiani
- Loghman Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Lung Research and Developmental Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Duran CL, Karagiannis GS, Chen X, Sharma VP, Entenberg D, Condeelis JS, Oktay MH. Cooperative NF-κB and Notch1 signaling promotes macrophage-mediated MenaINV expression in breast cancer. Breast Cancer Res 2023; 25:37. [PMID: 37024946 PMCID: PMC10080980 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-023-01628-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Metastasis is a multistep process that leads to the formation of clinically detectable tumor foci at distant organs and frequently to patient demise. Only a subpopulation of breast cancer cells within the primary tumor can disseminate systemically and cause metastasis. To disseminate, cancer cells must express MenaINV, an isoform of the actin regulatory protein Mena, encoded by the ENAH gene, that endows tumor cells with transendothelial migration activity, allowing them to enter and exit the blood circulation. We have previously demonstrated that MenaINV mRNA and protein expression is induced in cancer cells by macrophage contact. In this study, we discovered the precise mechanism by which macrophages induce MenaINV expression in tumor cells. We examined the promoter of the human and mouse ENAH gene and discovered a conserved NF-κB transcription factor binding site. Using live imaging of an NF-κB activity reporter and staining of fixed tissues from mouse and human breast cancer, we further determined that for maximal induction of MenaINV in cancer cells, NF-κB needs to cooperate with the Notch1 signaling pathway. Mechanistically, Notch1 signaling does not directly increase MenaINV expression, but it enhances and sustains NF-κB signaling through retention of p65, an NF-κB transcription factor, in the nucleus of tumor cells, leading to increased MenaINV expression. In mice, these signals are augmented following chemotherapy treatment and abrogated upon macrophage depletion. Targeting Notch1 signaling in vivo decreased NF-κB signaling activation and MenaINV expression in the primary tumor and decreased metastasis. Altogether, these data uncover mechanistic targets for blocking MenaINV induction that should be explored clinically to decrease cancer cell dissemination and improve survival of patients with metastatic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille L Duran
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine / Montefiore Medical Center, 1301 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
- Gruss-Lipper Biophotonics Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine / Montefiore Medical Center, 1301 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
| | - George S Karagiannis
- Gruss-Lipper Biophotonics Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine / Montefiore Medical Center, 1301 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
- Integrated Imaging Program, Albert Einstein College of Medicine / Montefiore Medical Center, 1301 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine / Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Xiaoming Chen
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine / Montefiore Medical Center, 1301 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
- Gruss-Lipper Biophotonics Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine / Montefiore Medical Center, 1301 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
| | - Ved P Sharma
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine / Montefiore Medical Center, 1301 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
- Gruss-Lipper Biophotonics Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine / Montefiore Medical Center, 1301 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
- Integrated Imaging Program, Albert Einstein College of Medicine / Montefiore Medical Center, 1301 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
- Bio-Imaging Resource Center, The Rockefeller University, Box 209, 1230 York Avenue, New York City, NY, 10065, USA
| | - David Entenberg
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine / Montefiore Medical Center, 1301 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
- Gruss-Lipper Biophotonics Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine / Montefiore Medical Center, 1301 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
- Integrated Imaging Program, Albert Einstein College of Medicine / Montefiore Medical Center, 1301 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
| | - John S Condeelis
- Gruss-Lipper Biophotonics Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine / Montefiore Medical Center, 1301 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA.
- Integrated Imaging Program, Albert Einstein College of Medicine / Montefiore Medical Center, 1301 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA.
- Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine / Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA.
- Department of Surgery, Albert Einstein College of Medicine / Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA.
| | - Maja H Oktay
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine / Montefiore Medical Center, 1301 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA.
- Gruss-Lipper Biophotonics Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine / Montefiore Medical Center, 1301 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA.
- Integrated Imaging Program, Albert Einstein College of Medicine / Montefiore Medical Center, 1301 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA.
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7
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Zhang H, Zhou Y, Wen D, Wang J. Noncoding RNAs: Master Regulator of Fibroblast to Myofibroblast Transition in Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:1801. [PMID: 36675315 PMCID: PMC9861037 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Myofibroblasts escape apoptosis and proliferate abnormally under pathological conditions, especially fibrosis; they synthesize and secrete a large amount of extracellular matrix (ECM), such as α-SMA and collagen, which leads to the distortion of organ parenchyma structure, an imbalance in collagen deposition and degradation, and the replacement of parenchymal cells by fibrous connective tissues. Fibroblast to myofibroblast transition (FMT) is considered to be the main source of myofibroblasts. Therefore, it is crucial to explore the influencing factors regulating the process of FMT for the prevention, treatment, and diagnosis of FMT-related diseases. In recent years, non-coding RNAs, including microRNA, long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs, have attracted extensive attention from scientists due to their powerful regulatory functions, and they have been found to play a vital role in regulating FMT. In this review, we summarized ncRNAs which regulate FMT during fibrosis and found that they mainly regulated signaling pathways, including TGF-β/Smad, MAPK/P38/ERK/JNK, PI3K/AKT, and WNT/β-catenin. Furthermore, the expression of downstream transcription factors can be promoted or inhibited, indicating that ncRNAs have the potential to be a new therapeutic target for FMT-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jie Wang
- Department of Immunology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Xiangya Road, Changsha 410000, China
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8
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Duran CL, Karagiannis GS, Chen X, Sharma VP, Entenberg D, Condeelis JS, Oktay MH. Cooperative NF-κB and Notch1 signaling promotes macrophage-mediated MenaINV expression in breast cancer. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.01.03.522642. [PMID: 36711751 PMCID: PMC9881873 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.03.522642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Metastasis is a multistep process that leads to the formation of clinically detectable tumor foci at distant organs and frequently patient demise. Only a subpopulation of breast cancer cells within the primary tumor can disseminate systemically and cause metastasis. To disseminate, cancer cells must express MenaINV, an isoform of the actin-regulatory protein Mena encoded by the ENAH gene that endows tumor cells with transendothelial migration activity allowing them to enter and exit the blood circulation. We have previously demonstrated that MenaINV mRNA and protein expression is induced in cancer cells by macrophage contact. In this study, we discovered the precise mechanism by which macrophages induce MenaINV expression in tumor cells. We examined the promoter of the human and mouse ENAH gene and discovered a conserved NF-κB transcription factor binding site. Using live imaging of an NF-κB activity reporter and staining of fixed tissues from mouse and human breast cancer we further determined that for maximal induction of MenaINV in cancer cell NF-κB needs to cooperate with the Notch1 signaling pathway. Mechanistically, Notch1 signaling does not directly increase MenaINV expression, but it enhances and sustains NF-κB signaling through retention of p65, an NF-κB transcription factor, in the nucleus of tumor cells, leading to increased MenaINV expression. In mice, these signals are augmented following chemotherapy treatment and abrogated upon macrophage depletion. Targeting Notch1 signaling in vivo decreased NF-κB signaling and MenaINV expression in the primary tumor and decreased metastasis. Altogether, these data uncover mechanistic targets for blocking MenaINV induction that should be explored clinically to decrease cancer cell dissemination and improve survival of patients with metastatic disease.
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9
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Villanueva JW, Kwong L, Han T, Martinez SA, Shanahan MT, Kanke M, Dow LE, Danko CG, Sethupathy P. Comprehensive microRNA analysis across genome-edited colorectal cancer organoid models reveals miR-24 as a candidate regulator of cell survival. BMC Genomics 2022; 23:792. [DOI: 10.1186/s12864-022-09018-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractSomatic mutations drive colorectal cancer (CRC) by disrupting gene regulatory mechanisms. Distinct combinations of mutations can result in unique changes to regulatory mechanisms leading to variability in the efficacy of therapeutics. MicroRNAs are important regulators of gene expression, and their activity can be altered by oncogenic mutations. However, it is unknown how distinct combinations of CRC-risk mutations differentially affect microRNAs. Here, using genetically-modified mouse intestinal organoid (enteroid) models, we identify 12 different modules of microRNA expression patterns across different combinations of mutations common in CRC. We also show that miR-24-3p is aberrantly upregulated in genetically-modified mouse enteroids irrespective of mutational context. Furthermore, we identify an enrichment of miR-24-3p predicted targets in downregulated gene lists from various mutational contexts compared to WT. In follow-up experiments, we demonstrate that miR-24-3p promotes CRC cell survival in multiple cell contexts. Our novel characterization of genotype-specific patterns of miRNA expression offer insight into the mechanisms that drive inter-tumor heterogeneity and highlight candidate microRNA therapeutic targets for the advancement of precision medicine for CRC.
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Sofias AM, De Lorenzi F, Peña Q, Azadkhah Shalmani A, Vucur M, Wang JW, Kiessling F, Shi Y, Consolino L, Storm G, Lammers T. Therapeutic and diagnostic targeting of fibrosis in metabolic, proliferative and viral disorders. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 175:113831. [PMID: 34139255 PMCID: PMC7611899 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.113831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis is a common denominator in many pathologies and crucially affects disease progression, drug delivery efficiency and therapy outcome. We here summarize therapeutic and diagnostic strategies for fibrosis targeting in atherosclerosis and cardiac disease, cancer, diabetes, liver diseases and viral infections. We address various anti-fibrotic targets, ranging from cells and genes to metabolites and proteins, primarily focusing on fibrosis-promoting features that are conserved among the different diseases. We discuss how anti-fibrotic therapies have progressed over the years, and how nanomedicine formulations can potentiate anti-fibrotic treatment efficacy. From a diagnostic point of view, we discuss how medical imaging can be employed to facilitate the diagnosis, staging and treatment monitoring of fibrotic disorders. Altogether, this comprehensive overview serves as a basis for developing individualized and improved treatment strategies for patients suffering from fibrosis-associated pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandros Marios Sofias
- Department of Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany; Mildred Scheel School of Oncology (MSSO), Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO(ABCD)), University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany; Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Federica De Lorenzi
- Department of Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Quim Peña
- Department of Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Armin Azadkhah Shalmani
- Department of Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Mihael Vucur
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Duesseldorf, Medical Faculty at Heinrich-Heine-University, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Jiong-Wei Wang
- Department of Surgery, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore; Cardiovascular Research Institute, National University Heart Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore; Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore; Nanomedicine Translational Research Programme, Centre for NanoMedicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Fabian Kiessling
- Department of Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Yang Shi
- Department of Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Lorena Consolino
- Department of Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.
| | - Gert Storm
- Department of Surgery, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore; Nanomedicine Translational Research Programme, Centre for NanoMedicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore; Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Department of Targeted Therapeutics, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands.
| | - Twan Lammers
- Department of Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany; Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Department of Targeted Therapeutics, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands.
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11
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Liu J, Xu S, Liu S, Chen B. miR‑3613‑3p/MAP3K2/p38/caspase‑3 pathway regulates the heat‑stress‑induced apoptosis of endothelial cells. Mol Med Rep 2021; 24:633. [PMID: 34278472 PMCID: PMC8280962 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2021.12272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have identified microRNA (miRNA/miR)-3613-3p as a heat stress (HS)-related miRNA in endothelial cells that can lead to apoptosis. However, the mechanism underlying the miR-3613-3p-mediated apoptosis of HS-exposed endothelial cells remains unclear. In the present study, western blot analysis and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR were used to determine protein and miRNA expression levels, respectively. Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide staining, caspase-3 activity measurements and DNA fragmentation assays were performed to detect apoptosis. To evaluate whether mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase 2 (MAP3K2) was a direct target of miR-3613-3p, a luciferase reporter assay was performed. In addition, transient transfection was used to carry out loss- and gain-of-function experiments. The results revealed that miR-3613-3p expression was reduced in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) following HS, which led to apoptosis. Mechanistically, following HS, a decrease in miR-3613-3p binding to the 3′-untranslated region of MAP3K2 directly upregulated its expression, and the downstream p38 and caspase-3 pathways, thereby leading to apoptosis. Taken together, the results of the present study demonstrated that HS suppressed miR-3613-3p expression, which activated the MAP3K2/p38/caspase-3 pathway, leading to the apoptosis of HUVECs. In conclusion, the miR-3613-3p/MAP3K2/p38/caspase-3 pathway may serve an indispensable role in regulating the progression of apoptosis, indicating a regulatory role of miR-3613-3p in the pathophysiology of HS-exposed endothelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Liu
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Hefei Boe Hospital Co., Ltd., Hefei, Anhui 230011, P.R. China
| | - Siya Xu
- Department of Emergency, Central Theater General Hospital of The People's Liberation Army of China, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, P.R. China
| | - Shixin Liu
- Department of Emergency, Central Theater General Hospital of The People's Liberation Army of China, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, P.R. China
| | - Bingguan Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Hefei Boe Hospital Co., Ltd., Hefei, Anhui 230011, P.R. China
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12
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Jamalkhah M, Asaadi Y, Azangou-Khyavy M, Khanali J, Soleimani M, Kiani J, Arefian E. MSC-derived exosomes carrying a cocktail of exogenous interfering RNAs an unprecedented therapy in era of COVID-19 outbreak. J Transl Med 2021; 19:164. [PMID: 33888147 PMCID: PMC8061879 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-021-02840-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The onset of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has resulted in ever-increasing casualties worldwide, and after 15 months, standard therapeutic regimens are yet to be discovered. MAIN BODY Due to the regenerative and immunomodulatory function of MSCs, they can serve as a suitable therapeutic option in alleviating major COVID-19 complications like acute respiratory distress syndrome. However, the superior properties of their cognate exosomes as a cell-free product make them preferable in the clinic. Herein, we discuss the current clinical status of these novel therapeutic strategies in COVID-19 treatment. We then delve into the potential of interfering RNAs incorporation as COVID-19 gene therapy and introduce targets involved in SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis. Further, we present miRNAs and siRNAs candidates with promising results in targeting the mentioned targets. CONCLUSION Finally, we present a therapeutic platform of mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes equipped with exogenous iRNAs, that can be employed as a novel therapeutic modality in COVID-19 management aiming to prevent further viral spread within the lung, hinder the virus life cycle and pathogenesis such as immune suppression, and ultimately, enhance the antiviral immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monire Jamalkhah
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yasaman Asaadi
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Javad Khanali
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoud Soleimani
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jafar Kiani
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Ehsan Arefian
- Department of Microbiology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
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Exosome-mediated delivery of functionally active miRNA-375-3p mimic regulate epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) of colon cancer cells. Life Sci 2021; 269:119035. [PMID: 33450254 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
AIMS EMT is the process by which a polarized epithelial cell undergoes several changes leading to highly invasive and fibroblast-like morphology. It has been described that miR-375 is inversely associated with EMT in cancerous patients and can effectively inhibit invasion and migration of tumor cells. Here, we investigate whether miR-375 mimic delivered by tumor-derived exosomes could reverse EMT process. MAIN METHODS The exosomes were isolated from HT-29 and SW480. Subsequently, exosomes were loaded with miR-375-3p mimic applying modified calcium chloride method. Quantitative real-time PCR was used for evaluation of the loading efficiency of miR-375 mimic in the exosomes. The effects of miR-375 loaded tumor exosomes (TEXomiR) on EMT process investigated using flow cytometry, cell morphology, and invasion and migration assay. KEY FINDINGS The in vitro results showed that the tumor derived exosomes can efficiently deliver miR-375 mimic to reduce the expression of β-catenin, vimentin, ZEB1, and snail. In contrast, TEXomiR significantly increased the expression of E- cadherin in EMT process. Furthermore, the migration and invasion abilities of HT-29 and SW480 cells were inhibited by TEXomiR. The expression of CD44 and CD133 are increased in EMT process. Flow cytometry evaluation demonstrated that treatment with TEXomiR significantly decreased the expression of CD44 and CD133 in SW480 cell line. SIGNIFICANCE Our results imply that colon cancer cells-derived exosomes could be used as an effective nonvehicle to deliver miR-375-3p mimic. Moreover, TEXomiR may be a potent therapeutic agent for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer.
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