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Li K, Chen Z, Chang X, Xue R, Wang H, Guo W. Wnt signaling pathway in spinal cord injury: from mechanisms to potential applications. Front Mol Neurosci 2024; 17:1427054. [PMID: 39114641 PMCID: PMC11303303 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2024.1427054] [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: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) denotes damage to both the structure and function of the spinal cord, primarily manifesting as sensory and motor deficits caused by disruptions in neural transmission pathways, potentially culminating in irreversible paralysis. Its pathophysiological processes are complex, with numerous molecules and signaling pathways intricately involved. Notably, the pronounced upregulation of the Wnt signaling pathway post-SCI holds promise for neural regeneration and repair. Activation of the Wnt pathway plays a crucial role in neuronal differentiation, axonal regeneration, local neuroinflammatory responses, and cell apoptosis, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target for treating SCI. However, excessive activation of the Wnt pathway can also lead to negative effects, highlighting the need for further investigation into its applicability and significance in SCI. This paper provides an overview of the latest research advancements in the Wnt signaling pathway in SCI, summarizing the recent progress in treatment strategies associated with the Wnt pathway and analyzing their advantages and disadvantages. Additionally, we offer insights into the clinical application of the Wnt signaling pathway in SCI, along with prospective avenues for future research direction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Huaibo Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Second Hospital Affiliated to Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
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Zong Y, Dai Y, Yan J, Yu B, Wang D, Mao S. The roles of circular RNAs in nerve injury and repair. Front Mol Neurosci 2024; 17:1419520. [PMID: 39077756 PMCID: PMC11284605 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2024.1419520] [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: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Nerve injuries significantly impact the quality of life for patients, with severe cases posing life-threatening risks. A comprehensive understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying nerve injury is crucial to the development of effective strategies to promote nerve regeneration. Circular RNAs (circRNAs), a recently characterized class of RNAs distinguished by their covalently closed-loop structures, have been shown to play an important role in various biological processes. Numerous studies have highlighted the pivotal role of circRNAs in nerve regeneration, identifying them as potential therapeutic targets. This review aims to succinctly outline the latest advances in the role of circRNAs related to nerve injury repair and the underlying mechanisms, including peripheral nerve injury, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, and neuropathic pain. Finally, we discuss the potential applications of circRNAs in drug development and consider the potential directions for future research in this field to provide insights into circRNAs in nerve injury repair.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Dong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Susu Mao
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China
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Wang W, Liu C, He D, Shi G, Song P, Zhang B, Li T, Wei J, Jiang Y, Ma L. CircRNA CDR1as affects functional repair after spinal cord injury and regulates fibrosis through the SMAD pathway. Pharmacol Res 2024; 204:107189. [PMID: 38649124 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a complex problem in modern medicine. Fibroblast activation and fibroscarring after SCI impede nerve recovery. Non-coding RNA plays an important role in the progression of many diseases, but the study of its role in the progression of spinal fibrosis is still emerging. Here, we investigated the function of circular RNAs, specifically antisense to the cerebellar degeneration-related protein 1 (CDR1as), in spinal fibrosis and characterized its molecular mechanism and pathophysiology. The presence of CDR1as in the spinal cord was verified by sequencing and RNA expression assays. The effects of inhibition of CDR1as on scar formation, inflammation and nerve regeneration after spinal cord injury were investigated in vivo and in vitro. Further, gene expression of miR-7a-5p and protein expression of transforming Growth Factor Beta Receptor II (TGF-βR2) were measured to evaluate their predicted interactions with CDR1as. The regulatory effects and activation pathways were subsequently verified by miR-7a-5p inhibitor and siCDR1as. These results indicate that CDR1as/miR-7a-5p/TGF-βR2 interactions may exert scars and nerves functions and suggest potential therapeutic targets for treating spinal fibrotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenzhao Wang
- Department of Orthopedic, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China; Department of Orthopedics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Chang Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Dong He
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China; Post-doctoral Scientific Research Workstation, Shandong Freda Biotech Co., Ltd, Jinan, Shandong, China; Department of Histology and Embryology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Guidong Shi
- Department of Orthopedic, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Ping Song
- Department of Orthopedics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China; National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Boqing Zhang
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Tian Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Jianlu Wei
- Department of Orthopedic, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China.
| | - Yunpeng Jiang
- Department of Orthopedic, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China.
| | - Liang Ma
- Department of Orthopedics, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China.
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Zhou M, Li S, Huang C. Physiological and pathological functions of circular RNAs in the nervous system. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:342-349. [PMID: 37488888 PMCID: PMC10503630 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.379017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of covalently closed single-stranded RNAs that are expressed during the development of specific cells and tissues. CircRNAs play crucial roles in physiological and pathological processes by sponging microRNAs, modulating gene transcription, controlling the activity of certain RNA-binding proteins, and producing functional peptides. A key focus of research at present is the functionality of circRNAs in the nervous system and several advances have emerged over the last 2 years. However, the precise role of circRNAs in the nervous system has yet to be comprehensively reviewed. In this review, we first summarize the recently described roles of circRNAs in brain development, maturity, and aging. Then, we focus on the involvement of circRNAs in various diseases of the central nervous system, such as brain cancer, chronic neurodegenerative diseases, acute injuries of the nervous system, and neuropathic pain. A better understanding of the functionality of circRNAs will help us to develop potential diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic strategies to treat diseases of the nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Zhou
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shi Li
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chuan Huang
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
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Jiang M, Li Y, Fan W, Shen X, Jiang K, Wang D. Circ-KATNAL1 Knockdown Reduces Neuronal Apoptosis and Alleviates Spinal Cord Injury Through the miR-98-5p/PRDM5 Regulatory Axis. Mol Biotechnol 2023:10.1007/s12033-023-00895-9. [PMID: 37758970 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-023-00895-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a common disease of the central nervous system. circRNAs play a crucial role in neurological disease. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of circ-KATNAL1 in SCI and its regulatory mechanism. T9-L10 spinal segment of Sprague Dawley rats was compressed or contused after T10 laminectomy to establish the SCI rat model. Then, rats were divided into SCI group, si-NC group, si-circ-KATNAL1 group, si-circ-KATNAL1 + antagomir NC group, si-circ-KATNAL1 + miR-98-5p antagomir group, si-circ-KATNAL1 + oe-NC group, and si-circ-KATNAL1 + oe-PRDM5 group, with 6 rats in each group. There was another sham operation group that received no treatment. Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan (BBB) scores were used to evaluate the neural function of rats. In addition to that, the pathological changes of spinal cord tissue, neuronal apoptosis, and inflammatory responses were correspondingly observed and analyzed. Quantitative measurements of circ-KATNAL1, miR-98-5p, and PRDM5 levels were conducted, as well as analyses of their interrelationship. Circ-KATNAL1 was up-regulated in the spinal cord tissue of SCI rats, and circ-KATNAL1 knockdown could improve neural function, alleviate pathological changes of spinal cord tissue, and inhibit neuronal apoptosis and inflammatory responses in SCI rats. For miR-98-5p, circ-KATNAL1 was an upstream factor, while PRDM5 was a downstream actor. miR-98-5p deficiency or PRDM5 restoration impaired the remission effect of circ-KATNAL1 knockdown on SCI. Circ-KATNAL1 knockdown reduces neuronal apoptosis and alleviates SCI through miR-98-5p/PRDM5 regulatory axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- MinBo Jiang
- Department of Orthopedic, Shanghai Songjiang District Central Hospital, No. 746 Zhongshan Middle Road, Songjiang District, Shanghai, 201699, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Orthopedic, Shanghai Songjiang District Central Hospital, No. 746 Zhongshan Middle Road, Songjiang District, Shanghai, 201699, China
| | - WenWen Fan
- Department of Orthopedic, Shanghai Songjiang District Central Hospital, No. 746 Zhongshan Middle Road, Songjiang District, Shanghai, 201699, China
| | - XiaoYan Shen
- Department of Orthopedic, Shanghai Songjiang District Central Hospital, No. 746 Zhongshan Middle Road, Songjiang District, Shanghai, 201699, China
| | - Kai Jiang
- Department of Orthopedic, Shanghai Songjiang District Central Hospital, No. 746 Zhongshan Middle Road, Songjiang District, Shanghai, 201699, China.
| | - DeGuo Wang
- Department of Orthopedic, Shanghai Songjiang District Central Hospital, No. 746 Zhongshan Middle Road, Songjiang District, Shanghai, 201699, China.
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Wang K, Su X, Song Q, Chen Z, Chen H, Han Y, Zhu C, Shen H. The circ_006573/miR-376b-3p Axis Advances Spinal Cord Functional Recovery after Injury by Modulating Vascular Regeneration. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:4983-4999. [PMID: 37209265 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03357-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Abnormal expression of non-coding RNAs after spinal cord injury (SCI) is associated with pathophysiological outcomes. We bioinformatically predicted a circRNA-miRNA-mRNA axis in SCI. A total of 4690 mRNAs, 17 miRNAs, and 3928 circRNAs were differentially expressed, with co-expressed RNAs predicted to regulate pathways related to wound healing. Among the most highly differentially expressed circRNAs, circ_006573, but not circ_016395, weakened the viability and migration of rat aortic endothelial cells, and its biological effects were rescued with miR-376b-3p mimics. Furthermore, circ_006573 overexpression induced changes in Cebpb, IL-18, and Plscr1 expression that were reversed by miR-376b-3p. In a rat model, circ_006573 shRNA administration improved the pathological manifestations of SCI and ameliorated motor function. Moreover, the expression of CD31, CD34, and VEGF-A in spinal cord tissues was significantly elevated after circ_006573 shRNA treatment, indicating that circ_006573 may be involved in vascular regeneration and functional recovery after SCI. Thus, the circ_006573-miR-376b-3p axis offers a foundation for understanding pathophysiological mechanisms and predicting strategies for treating SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopedics, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinjin Su
- Department of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopedics, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingxin Song
- Department of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopedics, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhi Chen
- Department of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopedics, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hao Chen
- Department of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopedics, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yingchao Han
- Department of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopedics, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chao Zhu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopedics, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Hongxing Shen
- Department of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopedics, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
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Zhu J, Huang F, Hu Y, Qiao W, Guan Y, Zhang ZJ, Liu S, Liu Y. Non-Coding RNAs Regulate Spinal Cord Injury-Related Neuropathic Pain via Neuroinflammation. J Inflamm Res 2023; 16:2477-2489. [PMID: 37334347 PMCID: PMC10276590 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s413264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Secondary chronic neuropathic pain (NP) in addition to sensory, motor, or autonomic dysfunction can significantly reduce quality of life after spinal cord injury (SCI). The mechanisms of SCI-related NP have been studied in clinical trials and with the use of experimental models. However, in developing new treatment strategies for SCI patients, NP poses new challenges. The inflammatory response following SCI promotes the development of NP. Previous studies suggest that reducing neuroinflammation following SCI can improve NP-related behaviors. Intensive studies of the roles of non-coding RNAs in SCI have discovered that ncRNAs bind target mRNA, act between activated glia, neuronal cells, or other immunocytes, regulate gene expression, inhibit inflammation, and influence the prognosis of NP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, JiangSu Province, 226001, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fei Huang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, JiangSu Province, 226001, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Nantong Health College of Jiangsu Province, Nantong, JiangSu Province, 226010, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yonglin Hu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, JiangSu Province, 226001, People’s Republic of China
- Affiliated Nantong Rehabilitation Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, JiangSu Province, 226001, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei Qiao
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, JiangSu Province, 226001, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yingchao Guan
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, JiangSu Province, 226001, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhi-Jun Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, JiangSu Province, 226001, People’s Republic of China
| | - Su Liu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, JiangSu Province, 226001, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, JiangSu Province, 226001, People’s Republic of China
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Cao J, Pan C, Zhang J, Chen Q, Li T, He D, Cheng X. Analysis and verification of the circRNA regulatory network RNO_CIRCpedia_ 4214/RNO-miR-667-5p/Msr1 axis as a potential ceRNA promoting macrophage M2-like polarization in spinal cord injury. BMC Genomics 2023; 24:181. [PMID: 37020267 PMCID: PMC10077679 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-023-09273-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND CircRNAs are involved in the pathogenesis of several central nervous system diseases. However, their functions and mechanisms in spinal cord injury (SCI) are still unclear. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate circRNA and mRNA expression profiles in the pathological setting of SCI and to predict the potential function of circRNA through bioinformatics. METHODS A microarray-based approach was used for the simultaneous measurement of circRNAs and mRNAs, together with qPCR, fluorescence in situ hybridization, western immunoblotting, and dual-luciferase reporter assays to investigate the associated regulatory mechanisms in a rat SCI model. RESULTS SCI was found to be associated with the differential expression of 414 and 5337 circRNAs and mRNAs, respectively. Pathway enrichment analyses were used to predict the primary function of these circRNAs and mRNAs. GSEA analysis showed that differentially expressed mRNAs were primarily associated with inflammatory immune response activity. Further screening of these inflammation-associated genes was used to construct and analyze a competing endogenous RNA network. RNO_CIRCpedia_4214 was knocked down in vitro, resulting in reduced expression of Msr1, while the expression of RNO-miR-667-5p and Arg1 was increased. Dual-luciferase assays demonstrated that RNO_CIRCpedia_4214 bound to RNO-miR-667-5p. The RNO_CIRCpedia_4214/RNO-miR-667-5p/Msr1 axis may be a potential ceRNA that promotes macrophage M2-like polarization in SCI. CONCLUSION Overall, these results highlighted the critical role that circRNAs may play in the pathophysiology of SCI and the discovery of a potential ceRNA mechanism based on novel circRNAs that regulates macrophage polarization, providing new targets for the treatment of SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Cao
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Chongzhi Pan
- Institute of Orthopedics of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Institute of Minimally Invasive Orthopedics, Nanchang University, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Qi Chen
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Intervertebral Disc Disease, Nanchang University, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Tao Li
- Institute of Orthopedics of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Dingwen He
- Institute of Minimally Invasive Orthopedics, Nanchang University, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Xigao Cheng
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China.
- Institute of Orthopedics of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China.
- Institute of Minimally Invasive Orthopedics, Nanchang University, Jiangxi, 330006, China.
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Intervertebral Disc Disease, Nanchang University, Jiangxi, 330006, China.
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, 1 Minde Road, East Laker District, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.
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Han Z, Mou Z, Jing Y, Jiang R, Sun T. CircSmox knockdown alleviates PC12 cell apoptosis and inflammation in spinal cord injury by miR-340-5p/Smurf1 axis. Immun Inflamm Dis 2023; 11:e824. [PMID: 37102659 PMCID: PMC10091371 DOI: 10.1002/iid3.824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a traumatic central nervous system disorder that leads to irreversible neurological dysfunction. Emerging evidence has shown that differentially expressed circular RNAs (circRNAs) after SCI is closely associated with the pathophysiological process. Herein, the potential function of circRNA spermine oxidase (circSmox) in functional recovery after SCI was investigated. METHODS Differentiated PC12 cells stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were employed as an in vitro model for neurotoxicity research. Levels of genes and proteins were detected by quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot analysis. Cell viability and apoptosis were determined by CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry. Western blot analysis was used to detect the protein level of apoptosis-related markers. The levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. Dual-luciferase reporter, RIP, and pull-down assays were used to confirm the target relationship between miR-340-5p and circSmox or Smurf1 (SMAD Specific E3 Ubiquitin Protein Ligase 1). RESULTS LPS elevated the levels of circSmox and Smurf1, but decreased the levels of miR-340-5p in PC12 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Functionally, circSmox silencing alleviated LPS-induced apoptosis and inflammation in PC12 cells in vitro. Mechanistically, circSmox directly sponged miR-340-5p, which targeted Smurf1. Rescue experiments showed that miR-340-5p inhibition attenuated the neuroprotective effect of circSmox siRNA in PC12 cells. Moreover, miR-340-5p suppressed LPS-triggered neurotoxicity in PC12 cells, which was reversed by Smurf1 overexpression. CONCLUSION CircSmox enhances LPS-induced apoptosis and inflammation via miR-340-5p/Smurf1 axis, providing an exciting view of the potential involvement of circSmox in SCI pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyin Han
- Department of Traumatic Orthopedics, Yantaishan Hospital, Yantai, China
| | - Zufang Mou
- Department of Nosocomial Infection, Yantaishan Hospital, Yantai, China
| | - Yulong Jing
- Department of Traumatic Orthopedics, Yantaishan Hospital, Yantai, China
| | - Rong Jiang
- Department of Physiology, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, China
| | - Tao Sun
- Department of Traumatic Orthopedics, Yantaishan Hospital, Yantai, China
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CircRNA3616 knockdown attenuates inflammation and apoptosis in spinal cord injury by inhibiting TLR4/NF-κB activity via sponging miR-137. Mol Cell Biochem 2023; 478:329-341. [PMID: 35913538 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-022-04509-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The present work focused on exploring the role of circRNA3616 in neuronal inflammation and apoptosis in spinal cord injury (SCI). METHODS The SCI mouse model and circRNA3616 knockdown SCI mouse model were established. This work focused on assessing the mouse locomotor function using Basso Mouse Scale (BMS) and BMS subscore. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining and Tunel staining were conducted, while myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity was also detected on spinal cord tissues. We also knocked down circRNA3616 expression in NSC-34 cells. Meanwhile, the SCI cell model was established by oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD) in NSC-34 cells. Moreover, we conducted dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. Flow cytometry (FCM) was conducted to detect SCI cell apoptosis, whereas cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay was performed to analyze cell viability. This study also implemented enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to detect inflammatory factors in spinal cord tissues, serum, and cells. RESULTS CircRNA3616 knockdown reduced the damage, inflammatory response, apoptosis, and MPO activity in SCI mouse serum and spinal cord tissues. CircRNA3616 knockdown increased BMS and BMS subscore of SCI mice. CircRNA3616 up-regulated TLR4 expression by sponging miR-137. CircRNA3616 knockdown inhibited the TLR4, p-IkBα, p-p65/p65 protein expression, while promoting IkBα protein expression within SCI mouse spinal cord. TLR4 reversed circRNA3616 knockdown-induced inhibition on NF-κB pathway activity in SCI cells. CircRNA3616 knockdown attenuated neuronal cell inflammation and apoptosis via TLR4/NF-κB pathway after SCI. CONCLUSION CircRNA3616 silencing attenuates inflammation and apoptosis in SCI by inhibiting TLR4/NF-κB activity via sponging miR-137. CircRNA3616 is the possible anti-SCI therapeutic target.
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Li Y, Wang B, Sun W, Kong C, Li G, Chen X, Lu S. Screening the immune-related circRNAs and genes in mice of spinal cord injury by RNA sequencing. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1060290. [PMID: 36479123 PMCID: PMC9720296 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1060290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a pathological condition that leading to serious nerve damage, disability and even death. Increasing evidence have revealed that circular RNAs (circRNAs) and mRNA are widely involved in the regulation of the pathological process of neurological diseases by sponging microRNAs (miRNAs). Nevertheless, the potential biological functions and regulatory mechanisms of circRNAs in the subacute stage of SCI remain unclear. We analyzed the expression and regulatory patterns of circRNAs and mRNAs in SCI mice models using RNA-sequencing and bioinformatics analysis. A total of 24 circRNAs and 372 mRNAs were identified to be differentially expressed. Then we identifying the immune-related genes (IRGs) from them. The protein-protein interaction network were constructed based on the STRING database and Cytoscape software. Furthermore, Go and KEGG enrichment analysis were conducted to predict the functions of the IRGs and host genes of DECs. These findings will contribute to elucidate the pathophysiology of SCI and provide effective therapeutic targets for SCI patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongjin Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Baobao Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wenzhi Sun
- Department of Orthopedics, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Kong
- Department of Orthopedics, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Guowang Li
- Graduate School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaolong Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Xiaolong Chen, ; Shibao Lu,
| | - Shibao Lu
- Department of Orthopedics, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Xiaolong Chen, ; Shibao Lu,
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Zan C, Li J, Lin F, Wang Z. Potential value of differentially expressed circular RNAs derived from circulating exosomes in the pathogenesis of rat spinal cord injury. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:1003628. [PMID: 36440268 PMCID: PMC9691962 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.1003628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) remains one kind of devastating neurological damage, and specific molecular mechanisms involved need to be understood deeply. Currently, circular RNAs (circRNAs), as a newly discovered type of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), have been under active investigation. Through functional interactions with disease-associated microRNAs (miRNAs), exosome-derived circRNAs have been extensively implicated in various organ pathogenesis. Nevertheless, the functional involvement of circulating circRNAs in SCI onset, progression as well as repair remains poorly explored until now. Of note, there still lacks clinical and experimental evidence in this regard. To obtain some relevant knowledge in this field, this study was originally designed to have a general overview of differentially expressed circRNAs derived from circulating exosomes in SCI rats in comparison with the control rats. It turned out that 709 types of downregulated circRNAs and 346 kinds of upregulated circRNAs were preliminarily screened out. Functional enrichment analyses including kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) pathway and gene ontology (GO) were performed to evaluate the possible biological functions of upregulated as well as downregulated circRNAs involved in SCI. Furthermore, five types of upregulated circulating circRNAs including chr4:208359914–208362182+, chr15:20088296–20092102+, chr1:175098934– 175134845–, chr1:175099657– 175128203–, and chr1:175104454– 175134845–, and plus five kinds of downregulated circulating circRNAs including chr11:74154652– 74159524–, chr12:45412398– 45412635–, chr7:137630261– 137648924–, chr6:6280974–6281188+, and chr4:225251864–225254087+, were verified through reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). At last, taking these differentially expressed circRNAs in the center, the circRNA-miRNA-mRNA gene interaction network was constructed to predict the possible functionalities of circRNAs in SCI through anticipating specific interactive miRNAs, giving new insights into how circRNAs contribute to this pathological process. Taken together, these findings suggest the possible involvement and functional significance of circRNAs in SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunfang Zan
- Division of Vascular Biology, Institute for Stroke and Dementia Research (ISD), LMU Klinikum, Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU), Munich, Germany
- *Correspondence: Chunfang Zan, ,
| | - Jianan Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Fengsong Lin
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Zengliang Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Zengliang Wang,
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Yang ZL, Rao J, Lin FB, Liang ZY, Xu XJ, Lin YK, Chen XY, Wang CH, Chen CM. The Role of Exosomes and Exosomal Noncoding RNAs From Different Cell Sources in Spinal Cord Injury. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:882306. [PMID: 35518647 PMCID: PMC9062236 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.882306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) not only affects the quality of life of patients but also poses a heavy burden on their families. Therefore, it is essential to prevent the occurrence of SCI; for unpreventable SCI, it is critical to develop effective treatments. In recent years, various major breakthroughs have been made in cell therapy to protect and regenerate the damaged spinal cord via various mechanisms such as immune regulation, paracrine signaling, extracellular matrix (ECM) modification, and lost cell replacement. Nevertheless, many recent studies have shown that the cell therapy has many disadvantages, such as tumorigenicity, low survival rate, and immune rejection. Because of these disadvantages, the clinical application of cell therapy is limited. In recent years, the role of exosomes in various diseases and their therapeutic potential have attracted much attention. The same is true for exosomal noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), which do not encode proteins but affect transcriptional and translational processes by targeting specific mRNAs. This review focuses on the mechanism of action of exosomes obtained from different cell sources in the treatment of SCI and the regulatory role and therapeutic potential of exosomal ncRNAs. This review also discusses the future opportunities and challenges, proposing that exosomes and exosomal ncRNAs might be promising tools for the treatment of SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Chun-Hua Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Chun-Mei Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
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Sun P, Hamblin MH, Yin KJ. Non-coding RNAs in the regulation of blood–brain barrier functions in central nervous system disorders. Fluids Barriers CNS 2022; 19:27. [PMID: 35346266 PMCID: PMC8959280 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-022-00317-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The blood–brain barrier (BBB) is an essential component of the neurovascular unit that controls the exchanges of various biological substances between the blood and the brain. BBB damage is a common feature of different central nervous systems (CNS) disorders and plays a vital role in the pathogenesis of the diseases. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), such as microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNA (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), are important regulatory RNA molecules that are involved in almost all cellular processes in normal development and various diseases, including CNS diseases. Cumulative evidences have demonstrated ncRNA regulation of BBB functions in different CNS diseases. In this review, we have summarized the miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs that can be served as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for BBB injuries, and demonstrated the involvement and underlying mechanisms of ncRNAs in modulating BBB structure and function in various CNS diseases, including ischemic stroke, hemorrhagic stroke, traumatic brain injury (TBI), spinal cord injury (SCI), multiple sclerosis (MS), Alzheimer's disease (AD), vascular cognitive impairment and dementia (VCID), brain tumors, brain infections, diabetes, sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE), and others. We have also discussed the pharmaceutical drugs that can regulate BBB functions via ncRNAs-related signaling cascades in CNS disorders, along with the challenges, perspective, and therapeutic potential of ncRNA regulation of BBB functions in CNS diseases.
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Yao Y, Zhang X, Xu J, Gao F, Wu Y, Cui X, Wei L, Jiang J, Wang X. circ_014260/miR-384/THBS1 aggravates spinal cord injury in rats by promoting neuronal apoptosis and endoplasmic reticulum stress. Am J Transl Res 2022; 14:518-533. [PMID: 35173872 PMCID: PMC8829636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the mechanism of circ_014260 regulating neuronal apoptosis, oxidative stress, and endoplasmic reticulum stress in rats with spinal cord injury (SCI) via miR-384/THBS1 axis. METHODS T9-L10 spinal cord segments of Sprague Dawley rats were subjected to compression or contusion injuries after T10 laminectomy to establish rat models of SCI, which were then divided into SCI group, si-circ group and oe-circ group according to the transfection. There was another sham operation group which received no treatment. There were 10 rats in each group. The Basso-Beattie-Bresnahan scale and HE staining were used to evaluate the changes in neuronal motor function in rats with SCI. TUNEL staining was used to determine the neuronal apoptosis. Flow cytometry was used to measure the changes in H2O2-induced apoptosis of primary neurons. The activities of myeloperoxidase, malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase and catalase were measured to evaluate the level of oxidative stress. Western blot was used to measure the expressions of CHOP and CRP78 (which are related to endoplasmic reticulum stress). Expression of circ_014260, miR-384 and THBS1 in tissues and cells was measured by qRT-PCR. RNase R restriction enzyme digestion and chromatin fractionation were used to identify the nature of circ_014260. Dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation were used to verify the targeted binding relationship between circ_014260 and miR-384, as well as between miR-384 and THBS1. RESULTS Compared with the sham operation group or the untreated rat primary neurons (control group), increased expression of circ_014260 and THBS1 as well as decreased expression of miR-384 were observed in the spinal cord tissue from rats with SCI and in H2O2-treated primary neurons (all P<0.05). The results of both in vivo and in vitro experiments showed that knocking down circ_014260 could reduce neuronal apoptosis and inhibit oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum stress in rats with SCI (all P<0.05). Circ_014260 targetedly inhibited miR-384 to up-regulate the expression of THBS1. Both miR-384 inhibitor and THBS1 overexpression vector partially reversed the alleviated neuronal damage by knocking down circ_014260 (both P<0.05). CONCLUSION Circ_014260 promotes neuronal damage in rats with SCI by inhibiting miR-384 to up-regulate the expression of THBS1. Thus, circ_014260 could possibly be a new molecular target of SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Yao
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical UniversityHarbin 150001, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical UniversityHarbin 150001, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Jun Xu
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical UniversityHarbin 150001, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Feng Gao
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical UniversityHarbin 150001, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Yanni Wu
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical UniversityHarbin 150001, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Xintao Cui
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical UniversityHarbin 150001, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Li Wei
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical UniversityHarbin 150001, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Jie Jiang
- Department of Orthopedics, Hailun Traditional Chinese Medicine HospitalSuihua 152300, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Xintao Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical UniversityHarbin 150001, Heilongjiang Province, China
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Bie F, Wang K, Xu T, Yuan J, Ding H, Lv B, Liu Y, Lan M. The potential roles of circular RNAs as modulators in traumatic spinal cord injury. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 141:111826. [PMID: 34328121 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) may cause long-term physical impairment and bring a substantial burden to both the individual patient and society. Existing therapeutic approaches for SCI have proven inadequate. This is mainly owing to the incomplete understanding of the cellular and molecular events post-injury. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) represent a new class of non-coding RNAs with a covalently closed annular structure that participates in regulating the transcription of certain genes and are linked to various biological processes and diseases. Mounting evidence is indicative that circRNAs are highly expressed in the spinal cord and they play key roles in multiple processes of neurological diseases. Recently, a role for circRNAs as effectors of SCI has emerged, leading to the continuity of relevant research. In this review, we presented current studies with regards to the abnormality of circRNAs mediating SCI by affecting mechanisms of autophagy, apoptosis, inflammation, and neural regeneration. Furthermore, the potential clinical value of circRNAs as therapeutic targets of SCI was also analyzed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Bie
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212002, China.
| | - Kaiyang Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai 200233, China.
| | - Tao Xu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China.
| | - Jishan Yuan
- Department of Orthopedics, The Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212002, China.
| | - Hua Ding
- Department of Orthopedics, The Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212002, China.
| | - Bin Lv
- Department of Orthopedics, The Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212002, China; Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
| | - Yuwen Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, China.
| | - Min Lan
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212002, China.
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