The roles of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway related lncRNAs in cancer

Crosstalk between lncRNAs and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways in lung cancers: From cancer progression to therapeutic response

Lung cancer (LC) is considered to have the highest mortality rate around the world. Because there are no early diagnostic signs or efficient clinical alternatives, distal metastasis and increasing numbers of recurrences are a challenge in the clinical management of LC. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have recently been recognized as a critical regulator involved in the progression and treatment response to LC. The Wnt/β-catenin pathway has been shown to influence LC occurrence and progress. Therefore, discovering connections between Wnt signaling pathway and lncRNAs may offer new therapeutic targets for improving LC treatment and management. In this review, the purpose of this article is to present possible therapeutic approaches by reviewing particular relationships, key processes, and molecules associated to the beginning and development of LC.

Aucubin Promotes Osteogenic Differentiation and Facilitates Bone Formation through the lncRNA-H19 Driven Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Regulatory Axis

Objectives

Traditional Chinese medicine Cortex Eucommiae has been used to treat bone fracture for hundreds of years, which exerts a significant improvement in fracture healing. Aucubin, a derivative isolated from Cortex Eucommiae, has been demonstrated to possess anti-inflammatory, immunoregulatory, and antioxidative potential. In the present study, our aim was to explore its function in bone regeneration and elucidate the underlying mechanism.

Materials and Methods

The effects of Aucubin on osteoblast and osteoclast were examined in mouse bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) and RAW 264.7 cells, respectively. Moreover, the lncRNA H19 and Wnt/β-catenin signaling were detected by qPCR examination, western blotting, and luciferase activity assays. Using the femur fracture mice model, the in vivo effect of Aucubin on bone formation was monitored by X-ray, micro-CT, histomorphometry, and immunohistochemistry staining.

Results

In the present study, Aucubin was found to significantly promote osteogenic differentiation in vitro and stimulated bone formation in vivo. Regarding to the underlying mechanism, H19 was found to be obviously upregulated by Aucubin in MSCs and thus induced the activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Moreover, H19 knockdown partially reversed the Aucubin-induced osteogenic differentiation and successfully suppressed the activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling. We therefore suggested that Aucubin induced the activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling through promoting H19 expression.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrated that Aucubin promoted osteogenesis in vitro and facilitated fracture healing in vivo through the H19-Wnt/β-catenin regulatory axis.

The Expression Analysis of Long Non-coding RNAs Related to Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling in Pancreatic Cancer Patients

Background The oncogenic Wnt/β-catenin signaling plays a critical role in carcinogenesis, prognosis, and resistance to therapy. Pancreatic cancer (PC) has high mortality because of its poor prognosis. Several studies have suggested that lncRNAs are directly involved in the development and progression of PC as well as in Wnt/β-catenin signaling. In this study, we investigated and compared the expression of Wnt/β-catenin signaling-related ZFAS1 and HCG11 lncRNAs, and their targets, CTNNB1 and IGF2BP1 genes in the blood of patients with PC and healthy individuals. A total of 47 PC patients and 50 healthy individuals participated in this study. RNA was extracted from the peripheral blood samples of participants, and cDNA was synthesized. The expression level of the selected genes was quantified by real-time PCR. The expression of HCG11 lncRNA and CTNNB1 genes in patients with PC was significantly upregulated compared to healthy individuals, and the expression of the ZFAS1 lncRNA was significantly downregulated. According to the analysis of the ROC curve, the diagnostic powers of ZFAS1 and CTNNB1 in PC were 0.67 and 0.69, respectively. Altogether, the present study suggests a role for ZFAS1 and HCG11 lncRNAs and CTNNB1 and IGF2BP1 in the pathogenesis of pancreatic cancer. Moreover, the peripheral expression of these lncRNAs may be useful as potential biomarkers for PC.

LncRNA-CCAT5-mediated crosstalk between Wnt/β-Catenin and STAT3 signaling suggests novel therapeutic approaches for metastatic gastric cancer with high Wnt activity

BACKGROUND

Although the constitutively activated Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway plays vital roles in gastric cancer (GC) progression, few Wnt inhibitors are approved for clinical use. Additionally, the clinical significance of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in GC intraperitoneal dissemination (IPD) remains elusive. Here, we investigated the function and therapeutic potential of Wnt-transactivated lncRNA, colon cancer-associated transcript 5 (CCAT5), in GC metastasis.

METHODS

LncRNA-sequencing assay was performed to document abundance changes of lncRNAs induced by Wnt family member 3A (Wnt3a) and degradation-resistant β-catenin (S33Y mutated) in ascites-derived GC cells with low Wnt activity. Luciferase reporter, Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP)-re-ChIP assays were performed to determine how CCAT5 was transcribed. The clinical significance of CCAT5 was examined in 2 cohorts of GC patients. The biological function of CCAT5 was investigated through gain- and loss-of-function studies. The molecular mechanism was explored through RNA-sequencing, mass spectrometry, and CRISPR/Cas9-knocknout system. The therapeutic potential of CCAT5 was examined through RNAi-based cell xenograft model and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model of IPD.

RESULTS

We identified a novel Wnt-regulated lncRNA, CCAT5, which was transactivated by the β-catenin/transcription factor 3 (TCF3) complex. CCAT5 was significantly upregulated in GC and predicted poor prognosis. Functional studies confirmed the promotive role of CCAT5 in GC growth and metastasis. Mechanistically, CCAT5 bound to the C-end domain of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and blocks Src homology 2 domain-containing protein tyrosine phosphatase 1 (SHP-1)-mediated STAT3Y705 dephosphorylation, leading to STAT3 nuclear entry and transactivation, thus accelerating GC progression. Furthermore, we demonstrated that both Wnt3a and β-catenin acted as activator of STAT3 signaling pathway, and the interplay between CCAT5 and STAT3 was functionally essential for Wnt-drived STAT3 signaling and tumor evolution. Finally, we revealed in vivo si-CCAT5 selectively attenuated growth and metastasis of Wnthigh GC, but not Wntlow GC. The combination of si-CCAT5 and oxaliplatin displayed obvious synergistic therapeutic effects on Wnthigh PDX mice.

CONCLUSIONS

We identified a novel Wnt-transactivated lncRNA, CCAT5. Our study revealed a mechanism of STAT3 signaling regulation via canonical Wnt signaling and the functional significance of CCAT5 as critical mediator. We provided conceptual advance that lncRNAs serve as therapeutic targets reversing GC progression.

Deciphering Role of lncRNA 91H in Liver Cancer: Impact on Tumorigenesis

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate functional role of long ncRNA (lncRNA) 91H in liver cancer tumorigenesis, focusing on its effect on cell proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle progression, migration, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and In vivo tumor growth.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this experimental study, liver cancer tissues and cell lines were analyzed for lncRNA 91H expression using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). By employing si-RNA to silence 91H, we aimed to gain a more in-depth understanding of its specific contributions and effects within these cells. Cell proliferation was assessed through the CCK-8 assay, while apoptosis and cell cycle progression were quantified using Annexin V-FITC staining and flow cytometry, respectively. Migration and invasion capabilities of liver cancer cells were assessed through transwell assay. EMT was assessed by analyzing protein expression levels of EMT-associated markers through western blotting. In vivo effect of 91H was assessed through xenograft experiments.

RESULTS

Significantly higher levels of lncRNA 91H were observed in the liver cancer tissues and cell lines, than the normal cells. Silencing 91H in liver cancer cells led to a notable reduction of cell proliferation by inducing apoptosis and arresting the cell cycle. Liver cancer cells with decreased 91H expression exhibited diminished migration and invasion abilities, suggesting a role for 91H in promoting these processes. Furthermore, 91H knockdown weakened EMT in liver cancer cells, indicating its involvement in modulating this critical cellular transition. Furthermore, growth of subcutaneous xenograft tumors and weight was effectively suppressed by sh-lncRNA 91H.

CONCLUSION

Our study strongly supports lncRNA 91H's role in liver cancer progression by enhancing proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT. Targeting 91H reduced in vivo tumor growth, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic liver cancer target. These findings suggest 91H's pivotal role in liver cancer aggressiveness, opening doors for future therapeutic approaches.

Role of maternally expressed 8 small nucleolar RNA (MEG8) in osteogenic differentiation of periodontal ligament stem cells

OBJECTIVES

Periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) are essential for the treatment of bone diseases because of its great potential to differentiate into osteoblasts. Remarkably, increasing long-non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been reported to be involved in the osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs. Maternally expressed 8, small nucleolar RNA host gene (MEG8) is implicated in multiple diseases. This study intended to unearth the potential role of MEG8 and unveil the mechanism in PDLSCs undergoing osteoblastic differentiation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MEG8 expression was measured by quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) during osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs into bone cells. Functional assays were used to uncover the biological function of MEG8. Besides, RNA pulldown, RNA-binding protein immunoprecipitation (RIP), and luciferase reporter assays were used to explore the molecular mechanism of MEG8.

RESULTS

MEG8 was apparently overexpressed in osteogenically differentiated PDLSCs. Moreover, MEG8 deficiency suppressed the osteoblastic differentiation of PDLSCs. Furthermore, MEG8 modulated the expression of transcription factor 4 (TCF4) by scavenging microRNA-495-3p (miR-495-3p) and microRNA-485-3p (miR-485-3p) through the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) mechanism, further stimulating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.

CONCLUSION

MEG8 stimulates the capacity of PDLSCs for osteogenic differentiation through a ceRNA mode.

Dissection of FOXO1-Induced LYPLAL1-DT Impeding Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Progression via Mediating hnRNPK/β-Catenin Complex

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is considered as the most hazardous subtype of breast cancer owing to its accelerated progression, enormous metastatic potential, and refractoriness to standard treatments. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are extremely intricate in tumorigenesis and cancerous metastasis. Nonetheless, their roles in the initiation and augmentation of TNBC remain elusive. Here, in silico analysis and validation experiments were utilized to analyze the expression pattern of clinically effective lncRNAs in TNBC, among which a protective lncRNA LYPLAL1-DT was essentially curbed in TNBC samples and indicated a favorable prognosis. Gain- and loss-of-function assays elucidated that LYPLAL1-DT considerably attenuated the proliferative and metastatic properties along with epithelial-mesenchymal transition of TNBC cells. Moreover, forkhead box O1 (FOXO1) was validated to modulate the transcription of LYPLAL1-DT. Mechanistically, LYPLAL1-DT impinged on the malignancy of TNBC mainly by restraining the aberrant reactivation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, explicitly destabilizing and diminishing β-catenin protein by interacting with heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K (hnRNPK) and constricting the formation of the hnRNPK/β-catenin complex. Conclusively, our present research revealed the anti-oncogenic effects of LYPLAL1-DT in TNBC, unraveling the molecular mechanisms of the FOXO1/LYPLAL1-DT/hnRNPK/β-catenin signaling axis, which shed innovative light on the potential curative medicine of TNBC.

Defining new biomarkers for overcoming therapeutical resistance in cervical cancer using lncRNA

Despite improvements in cervical cancer diagnosis and treatment, the prognosis for cervical cancer patients remains dismal due to the development of drug resistance, metastasis, and invasion resulting leading to treatment failure. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), a class of RNA transcripts have been reported in mediating carcinogenesis as well as drug, and radio-resistance in tumor cells. These lncRNAs regulate various cancer hallmarks and contribute to the development of therapeutic resistance. They regulates multiple signalling pathways, recruits polycomb group, function as miRNA sponge and scaffolds. Additionally, lncRNAs can act as oncogenes or tumor suppressors in cervical cancer. This comprehensive review outlines the biogenesis of lncRNA and its role in cancer development. It delves into the mechanisms through which various lncRNAs mediate chemoresistance and radioresistance in cervical cancer. By shedding into the light of mechanism, this review will also aids researchers in understanding lncRNAs as biomarkers and latest advancements in clinically targeting them with the help of Artificial Intelligence for overcoming chemoresistance and radioresistance, thereby improving cervical cancer treatment.

Long Non-Coding RNAs in Colorectal Cancer: Navigating the Intersections of Immunity, Intercellular Communication, and Therapeutic Potential

This comprehensive review elucidates the intricate roles of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) within the colorectal cancer (CRC) microenvironment, intersecting the domains of immunity, intercellular communication, and therapeutic potential. lncRNAs, which are significantly involved in the pathogenesis of CRC, immune evasion, and the treatment response to CRC, have crucial implications in inflammation and serve as promising candidates for novel therapeutic strategies and biomarkers. This review scrutinizes the interaction of lncRNAs with the Consensus Molecular Subtypes (CMSs) of CRC, their complex interplay with the tumor stroma affecting immunity and inflammation, and their conveyance via extracellular vesicles, particularly exosomes. Furthermore, we delve into the intricate relationship between lncRNAs and other non-coding RNAs, including microRNAs and circular RNAs, in mediating cell-to-cell communication within the CRC microenvironment. Lastly, we propose potential strategies to manipulate lncRNAs to enhance anti-tumor immunity, thereby underlining the significance of lncRNAs in devising innovative therapeutic interventions in CRC.

Long non-coding RNA AC245100.4 activates the PI3K/AKT pathway to promote PCa cell proliferation by elevating PAR2

Background

Prostate cancer (PCa) is among the most generally diagnosed cancers in males. A long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) called AC245100.4 has been discovered and linked to PCa carcinogenesis. However, its specific and potential mechanism is uncertain in PCa. In this research, we investigated the role of AC245100.4 in cell proliferation and the underlying mechanism in PCa cells.

Methods

qRT-PCR assays were utilized to detect AC245100.4 expression and confirm its downstream target. The pathways related to AC245100.4 were identified by RAP-MS. PCa cell proliferation was experimented by Cell Counting Kit-8 and Colony formation assays. Western blot was performed to detect PAR2, AKT, p-AKT, Cyclin D1 and PCNA expression.

Results

AC245100.4/PAR2 overexpression promotes PCa cell proliferation and the opposite results are obtained after AC245100.4/PAR2 knockdown. Mechanistically, we found that PAR2 is confirmed as the AC245100.4 downstream target and AC245100.4 promotes PCa cell proliferation by regulating PAR2. AC245100.4 promotes PCa cell proliferation via PI3K/AKT pathway. Rescue assays validated that PAR2 knockdown reversed the impact of AC245100.4 overexpression on increasing p-AKT protein levels.

Conclusion

This research revealed that AC245100.4 enhances cell proliferation in PCa cells through modulating the PAR2/PI3K/AKT axis, which may offer novel tumor markers and potential therapeutic targets for PCa.

Role of long non-coding RNAs in pancreatic cancer pathogenesis and treatment resistance- A review

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the deadliest cancers associated with poor prognosis. The lack of reliable means of early cancer detection contributes to this disease's dismal prognosis. Long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) are protein-free RNAs produced by genome transcription; they play critical roles in gene expression regulation, epigenetic modification, cell proliferation, differentiation, and reproduction. Recent research has shown that lncRNAs play important regulatory roles in PC behaviors, in addition to their recently found functions. Several in-depth investigations have shown that lncRNAs are strongly linked to PC development and progression. Here, we discuss how lncRNAs, which are often overlooked, play many roles as regulators in the molecular mechanism underlying PC. This review also discusses the involved LncRNAs in PC pathogenesis and treatment resistance.

Non-coding regions of nuclear-DNA-encoded mitochondrial genes and intergenic sequences are targeted by autoantibodies in breast cancer

Autoantibodies against mitochondrial-derived antigens play a key role in chronic tissue inflammation in autoimmune disorders and cancers. Here, we identify autoreactive nuclear genomic DNA (nDNA)-encoded mitochondrial gene products (GAPDH, PKM2, GSTP1, SPATA5, MFF, TSPOAP1, PHB2, COA4, and HAGH) recognized by breast cancer (BC) patients’ sera as nonself, supporting a direct relationship of mitochondrial autoimmunity to breast carcinogenesis. Autoreactivity of multiple nDNA-encoded mitochondrial gene products was mapped to protein-coding regions, 3’ untranslated regions (UTRs), as well as introns. In addition, autoantibodies in BC sera targeted intergenic sequences that may be parts of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) genes, including LINC02381 and other putative lncRNA neighbors of the protein-coding genes ERCC4, CXCL13, SOX3, PCDH1, EDDM3B, and GRB2. Increasing evidence indicates that lncRNAs play a key role in carcinogenesis. Consistent with this, our findings suggest that lncRNAs, as well as mRNAs of nDNA-encoded mitochondrial genes, mechanistically contribute to BC progression. This work supports a new paradigm of breast carcinogenesis based on a globally dysfunctional genome with altered function of multiple mitochondrial and non-mitochondrial oncogenic pathways caused by the effects of autoreactivity-induced dysregulation of multiple genes and their products. This autoimmunity-based model of carcinogenesis will open novel avenues for BC treatment.

Histopathogenesis of bone- and soft-tissue tumor spectrum with USP6 gene rearrangement: multiple partners involved in the tissue repair process

Primary aneurysmal bone cyst, nodular fasciitis, myositis ossificans and related lesions as well as fibroma of tendon sheath are benign tumors that share common histological features and a chromosomal rearrangement involving the ubiquitin-specific peptidase 6 (USP6) gene. The tumorigenesis of this tumor spectrum has become complex with the identification of an increasing number of new partners involved in USP6 rearrangements. Because traumatic involvement has long been mentioned in the histogenesis of most lesions in the USP6 spectrum and they morphologically resemble granulation tissue or callus, we attempted to shed light on the function and role USP6 partners play in tissue remodelling and the repair process and, to a lesser extent, bone metabolism.

Gallic acid mediates tumor-suppressive effects on osteosarcoma through the H19-Wnt/β-catenin regulatory axis

Background

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common primary malignancy in bone tissues, and effective therapeutics remain absent in clinical practice. Traditional Chinese medicines (TCM) have been used for thousands of years, which provide great insights into OS management. Gallic acid (GA) is a natural phenolic acid enriched in various foods and herbs. Several pharmacological activities of GA such as anti-oxidation and anti-inflammation have been well-established. However, its biological function in OS remains not fully understood.

Methods

The potential anti-cancer properties of GA were evaluated in 143 ​B, U2OS and MG63 ​cells. Its effects on cell growth, cell cycle, apoptosis and migration were examined in these OS cells. The lncRNA H19 and Wnt/β-catenin signaling were detected by qPCR, luciferase activity and Western blotting assays. The in vivo effect of GA on tumor growth was investigated using an orthotopic mouse model.

Results

In the present study, GA was found to suppress the tumor growth in vitro via inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in OS cells, and inhibit the invasion and metastasis as well. Using the orthotopic animal model, GA was also found to suppress tumorigenesis in vivo. Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) H19 was demonstrated to be down-regulated by GA, and thus disrupted the canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling in OS cells. Furthermore, the ectopic expression of H19 rescued the GA-induced suppressive effects on tumor growth and metastasis, and partially reversed the inactivation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling.

Conclusions

Taken together, our results indicated that GA inhibited tumor growth through an H19-mediated Wnt/β-catenin signaling regulatory axis in OS cells.

The translational potential of this article

The information gained from this study provides a novel underlying mechanism of GA mediated anti-OS activity, suggesting that GA may be a promising drug candidate for OS patients.

In vitro and Pharmacoinformatics-based phytochemical screening for anticancer impacts of pistachio hull essential oil on AGS, PLC/PRF/5, and CACO2 cell lines

BACKGROUND

The essential oil of pistacia vera (cv. Ohadi) hull (PHEO) was checked using gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis. It was studied the genes of the wnt pathway with a certain concentration of PHEO on Human gastric cancer (AGS), human hepatocellular carcinoma (PLC/PRF/5), and human colon cancer (CACO2) cell lines.

METHODS AND RESULTS

After evaluating the survival rate of cancer cells by MTT test and determining IC50, pistachio hull essential oil (PHEO) was used for 24-hours to treat the cells. After RNA extraction, the expression of wnt pathway genes was evaluated by Real-Time PCR. Considering the crucial role of β-catenin accumulation and its effect on the progression of gastrointestinal cancers, Western blot analysis was also used to determine the effect of PHEO in protein expression of β-catenin inhibition. Also, an in silico analysis was carried out to investigate the effect of PHEO extracted compounds on protein expression of β-catenin and FZD7 inhibition. According to the results, wnt pathway genes were changed in samples treated using PHEO. The results showed the up-regulation of GSK-3β and down-regulation of Wnt-1, LEF-1, TCF1, and CTNNB1 genes compared to the control.

CONCLUSION

We showed inhibition of β-catenin protein in cancer cell lines. Four compounds of PHEO were suggested to have an inhibition effect on β-catenin and FZD7. These compounds can be useful in the treatment of gastrointestinal cancers. Altogether, the inhibitory role of β-catenin protein can be very effective and can be considered one of the therapeutic goals in the treatment of gastrointestinal cancers.

β-catenin ISGylation promotes lipid deposition and apoptosis in ethanol-stimulated liver injury models

Background

The restoration of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway to alleviate alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD) progression is under study as a new strategy for alcoholic liver disease (ALD) treatment. Recent studies have indicated that interferon-stimulated gene 15 (ISG15) can covalently bind to β-catenin by HECT E3 ubiquitin ligase 5 (HERC5), leading to ISG degradation and downregulation of β-catenin levels. However, the relationship between β-catenin and the ISG15 system in AFLD remains unclear.

Methods

Here, we explored the roles of the ISG15 system in β-catenin activation and in the pathogenesis of alcohol-induced liver injury and steatosis.

Results

In this study, HERC5 silencing upregulated β-catenin protein expression and inhibited lipid metabolism disorders and cell apoptosis. Reduced β-catenin protein expression, increased lipid metabolism disorders, and cell apoptosis were detected in cells induced with HERC5 overexpression, which was reversible with the reactive oxygen species (ROS) inhibitor. All the above results were statistically analyzed. Thus, these observations demonstrate that β-catenin ISGylation is a prominent regulator of ALD pathology, which works by regulating ROS to induce lipid metabolism disorders and cell apoptosis.

Conclusion

Our findings provided the mechanism involved in the β-catenin ISGylation, allowing for future studies on the prevention or amelioration of liver injury in ALD.

Identification and functional analysis of LncRNA-XIST ceRNA network in prostate cancer

BACKGROUND

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a functional role in the progression of prostate cancer (PCa). However, the molecular mechanism, expression, or function of the lncRNA XIST in PCa is not well understood. Therefore, the major goal of this study was to investigate the involvement of XIST in PCa.

METHODS

We used the The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database to conduct a pan-cancer bioinformatics analysis of XIST and identified that it may play an important role in prostate cancer. This finding was verified using clinical samples and in vitro assays. Finally, we constructed an XIST ceRNA network for prostate cancer.

RESULTS

Our in vitro and in vivo results showed that the XIST gene expression level was higher in PCa derived cells and tissues compared to that in normal cells and tissues. XIST gene expression level was positively correlated with the invasion and proliferation of tumour cells. Furthermore, the downregulation of XIST inhibited the growth of subcutaneous 22Rv1 xenografts in nude mice. In addition, we constructed a XIST ceRNA network. Consistent with previous studies, we found that the role of XIST is mediated through via sponges, such as miRNA -96-5p, miRNA -153-3p, and miRNA-182-5p.

CONCLUSION

High expression level of XIST can lead to enhanced carcinogenicity in PCa. Therefore, XIST has the potential to be used as a prognostic marker and may become a new research focus for the treatment of PCa.

CircRNA expression profile and potential role of hsa_circ_0040039 in intervertebral disc degeneration

PURPOSE

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play an critical role in the pathological processes associated with IDD. However, the potential roles of circRNAs in IDD remain largely unclear. Here, we identify the circRNAs expression profiles and elucidate the potential role of candidate circRNAs in the pathogenesis of intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) through microarray data and bioinformatics analyses.

METHODS

We obtained the datasets of microarrays (GSE67566 and GSE116726) from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. The differentially expressed circRNAs and miRNAs were identified using the Limma R package. The target miRNAs and target genes of the candidate circRNAs were predicted using an online tool. Functional enrichment analyses of the target genes were performed using the clusterProfiler R package. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed using STRING.

RESULTS

A total of 104 differentially expressed circRNAs were identified between the IDD and the control groups, including 41 upregulated circRNAs and 63 downregulated circRNAs (cutoff criteria (|log2 fold change| > 2, P < .05)). Hsa_circ_0040039, which was the most upregulated circRNA (log2 fold change = 2.95), was selected for further analysis. The regulatory circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network comprised hsa_circ_0040039, 2 target miRNAs (hsa-miR-424-5p and hsa-miR-15b-5p), and 77 target genes. Functional enrichment analysis showed that the 77 promising target genes are mainly enriched in the ubiquitin proteasome system and Wnt signaling pathway. Further, the PPI network showed that the top 3 hub genes are BRTC, SIAH1, and UBE2V1.

CONCLUSIONS

A total of 104 differentially expressed circRNAs were identified between the IDD and control groups. Hsa_circ_0040039 may serve as a sponge of hsa-miR-424-5p and hsa-miR-15b-5p, to regulate the expression of downstream genes (such as BRTC, SIAH1, and UBE2V1); thus, it may be involved in IDD-associated pathological processes via the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Further studies are required to confirm the potential roles of hsa_circ_0040039 in IDD.

NF-κB-Activated lncRNACASC9 Promotes Bladder Cancer Progression by Regulating the TK1 Expression

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA) are involved in cancer development, but the roles of most lncRNAs are undocumented. In this study, we identified lncRNAs that were abnormally expressed in bladder cancer. We found that lncRNACASC9 plays an important role in the progression of bladder cancer. CASC9 was highly expressed in bladder cancer cells and tissues, and the prognosis of bladder cancer patients with high expression of CASC9 was poor. The results of colony formation assays, CCK-8 assays, EdU assays, transwell assays, mouse xenograft models, and tail vein injection lung metastasis model showed that CASC9 could promote bladder cancer cells growth and metastasis both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, through FISH experiments, luciferase reporter experiments, and RIP experiments, we proved that CASC9 regulated the expression of TK1 by adsorbing miR-195-5p, thereby exerting an oncogenic effect in bladder cancer. Taken together, our findings support that the CASC9/miR-195-5p/TK1 axis is a critical pathway in the tumorigenesis and progression of bladder cancer, implicating a new therapeutic direction for the treatment of bladder cancer.

LncRNA MEG3 alleviates PFOS induced placental cell growth inhibition through its derived miR-770 targeting PTX3

Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) is a persistent environmental pollutant. Exposure to PFOS has been associated with abnormal fetal development. The long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) has been showed to play a role in fetal growth restriction (FGR), preeclampsia (PE) and other pregnancy complications. Whether the lncRNA contributes to PFOS-induced toxicity in the placenta remains unknown. In this study, we investigated the function of lncRNA MEG3 and its derived miR-770 in PFOS-induced placental toxicity. Pregnant mice received gavage administration of different concentrations of PFOS (0.5, 2.5, and 12.5 mg/kg/day) from GD0 to GD17, and HTR-8/SVneo cells were treated with PFOS in the concentrations of 0, 10^-1, 1, 10 μM. We found that expression levels of miR-770 and its host gene MEG3 were reduced in mice placentas and HTR-8/SVneo cells with exposure of PFOS. A significant hypermethylation was observed at MEG3 promoter in placentas of mice gestational-treated with PFOS. We also confirmed that MEG3 and miR-770 overexpression alleviated the cell growth inhibition induced by PFOS. Furthermore, PTX3 (Pentraxin 3) was identified as the direct target of miR-770 and it was enhanced after PFOS exposure. In summary, our results suggested that MEG3 alleviate PFOS-induced placental cell inhibition through MEG3/miR-770/PTX3 axis.

Long Non-coding RNAs, Lnc(ing) RNA Metabolism to Cancer Biology

The eukaryotic genome is represented by a vast proportion of non-coding regions, which in recent years have been attributed to have important functional roles in gene regulation through a myriad of processes, ranging from proper localization, correct folding and, most importantly, spatial and temporally regulated expression of genes. One of the major contributing factors in these processes is ribonucleic acid (RNA) metabolism, which comprises the RNA-nucleoprotein (RNP) complexes that interact with and instruct the genome to function. Long non-coding RNAs are an integral component of several RNPs, and herein we provide an overview of the understanding of the long non-coding RNAs, their characteristics, their function and their balancing act as dual modulators in cancer manifestation and progression.

HMMR is a downstream target of FOXM1 in enhancing proliferation and partial epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition of bladder cancer cells

Our previous that HMMR upregulation independently predicts poor survival in patients with papillary muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). In this study, we explored its downstream regulations and the potential transcriptional factors activating its expression. MIBC derived T24 cells, and non-MIBC (NMIBC) derived RT4 cells were used for in vitro and in vivo studies. HMMR expression enhanced cell proliferation, the expression of mesenchymal markers, and cell invasion. It induced the nuclear entry of β-catenin, increased its active form in the nuclear part, and elevated the relative TOP/FOP activity. The promoter region of HMMR has a canonical FKH motif. FOXM1 bound to this site and activated HMMR transcription. HMMR knockdown significantly weakened FOXM1 overexpression induced bladder cancer growth, invasion, partial epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (pEMT), as well as the activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. In conclusion, the findings in this study expanded our understanding of the mechanisms underlying HMMR dysregulation and the functional role of the FOXM1-HMMR axis in bladder cancer.

Long noncoding RNAs: fine-tuners hidden in the cancer signaling network

With the development of sequencing technology, a large number of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been identified in addition to coding genes. LncRNAs, originally considered as junk RNA, are dysregulated in various types of cancer. Although protein-coding signaling pathways underlie various biological activities, and abnormal signal transduction is a key trigger and indicator for tumorigenesis and cancer progression, lncRNAs are sparking keen interest due to their versatile roles in fine-tuning signaling pathways. We are just beginning to scratch the surface of lncRNAs. Therefore, despite the fact that lncRNAs drive malignant phenotypes from multiple perspectives, in this review, we focus on important signaling pathways modulated by lncRNAs in cancer to demonstrate an up-to-date understanding of this emerging field.

Toxicity of thioacetamide and protective effects of quercetin in zebrafish (Danio rerio) larvae

Quercetin is a flavonoid compound with a variety of biological properties that is widely distributed throughout the plant kingdom. Studies have found that quercetin has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and liver-protective effects, while thioacetamide (TAA) can cause inflammation and liver damage in zebrafish larvae. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether quercetin can prevent TAA-induced inflammation and liver damage in zebrafish larvae and to investigate the molecular mechanisms involved. Zebrafish Tg transgenic lines were used as the experimental animals. Behavioral, oxidative stress level, proliferative antigen chromogenic antibody, and western blot analyses were carried out on zebrafish larvae in the control group and groups treated with TAA and 12 μM quercetin. The results indicated that quercetin promoted the development of zebrafish larvae damaged by TAA, exhibited antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and promoted cell proliferation. Quercetin reduced the expression of p53 protein in zebrafish larvae injured by TAA, resulting in decreased levels of Bax and increased levels of Bcl-2. The findings suggested quercetin has antiapoptotic action. Quercetin reduced the expression of DKK1 and DKK2 genes related to the Wnt signaling pathway in zebrafish larvae damaged by TAA and increased the expression of Lef1 and wnt2bb. Quercetin may regulate the development of zebrafish larvae damaged by TAA through the Wnt signaling pathway. This study provides the scientific basis for the development and utilization of quercetin and the development of new related drugs.

Expression of LINC01606 in multiple myeloma and its effect on cell invasion and migration

Given the increasing incidence of multiple myeloma (MM) in recent years, a full understanding of its pathogenesis to find effective molecular markers carries huge implications for future clinical diagnosis and treatment of MM. As the research advances, accumulating studies have pointed out that long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) may be the key to the future diagnosis and treatment of neoplastic diseases.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the clinical implications of LncRNA LINC01606 in MM and its effects on the biological behavior of MM cells.

METHODS

In this prospective study, 72 patients with MM (group A) admitted between July 2014 and July 2016 and 68 healthy subjects (group B) who concurrently underwent physical examination in our hospital were included. The expression of LINC01606 in peripheral blood of patients in the two groups was detected to analyze its diagnostic and prognostic value in MM. In addition, MM cells were purchased and transfected with plasmids for mimics, inhibitors and negative control of LINC01606 and miR-579-3p respectively to detect the changes in cell proliferation, invasion and migration.

RESULTS

The expression of LINC01606 in group A was higher than that in group B (P<0.050). The sensitivity and specificity of peripheral blood LINC01606 in predicting MM were 85.29% and 72.39%, respectively (P<0.001). Prognostic follow-up analysis revealed higher LINC01606 levels in the dead than those in the survival. The predictive sensitivity of LINC01606 for the 3-year mortality of MM patients was 63.16%, and the specificity was 86.00% (P<0.001). Higher expression of LINC01606 indicated increased risk of 3-year mortality in patients with MM (P<0.001). Compared with LINC01606 overexpression and miR-579-3p inhibition, the proliferation, invasion and migration of cells decreased more significantly by LINC01606 inhibition and miR-579-3p overexpression (P<0.050). Dual luciferase reporter (DLR) assay confirmed the targeting relationship between LINC01606 and miR-579-3p. There was no significant difference in the activity of MM cells co-transfected with LINC01606-inhibitor and miR-579-3p-inhibitor plasmids compared with the blank group (P>0.050).

CONCLUSIONS

LINC01606, with a high expression profile in MM, promotes the proliferation, migration and invasion of MM cells through targeted inhibition of miR-579-3p, which may be the key to future diagnosis and treatment of MM.

Knockdown of long non-coding RNA CCAT2 suppresses growth and metastasis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma by inhibiting the -catenin/WISP1 signaling pathway

Objective

Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) colon cancer-associated transcript 2 (CCAT2) plays oncogenic roles in several cancers, including esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). However, the specific mechanism of how CCAT2 influences ESCC tumorigenesis is still unknown.

Methods

Using RT-qPCR, the mRNA expression levels of CCAT2 in 33 paired ESCC and adjacent non-cancer tissues and cell lines were measured. Lentiviral vector sh-CCAT2 was designed and transfected into TE10 cells. CCK-8 and transwell assays were employed to detect the effects of CCAT2 knockdown on cell proliferation and invasion, respectively. RT-qPCR and western blots were used to detect the effects of CCAT2 knockdown.

Results

CCAT2 was overexpressed in ESCC tissues compared with corresponding adjacent tissues. CCAT2 knockdown could suppress cell proliferation and invasion in vitro. Furthermore, knockdown of CCAT2 could suppress the mRNA and protein levels of β-catenin and Wnt-induced-secreted-protein-1 (WISP1), as well as the mRNA levels of their downstream targets VEGF-A, MMP2, and ICAM-1. High expression of CCAT2 and WISP1 were associated with poor prognosis of ESCC patients.

Conclusions

In conclusion, a novel CCAT2/β-catenin/WISP1 axis was revealed in ESCC progression and may provide a promising therapeutic target against ESCC. CCAT2 and WISP1 are potential molecular biomarkers for predicting prognosis of ESCC.

Targeting Signaling Pathway Networks in Several Malignant Tumors: Progresses and Challenges

Malignant tumors remain the health problem of highest concern among people worldwide due to its high mortality and recurrence. Lung, gastric, liver, colon, and breast cancers are among the top five malignant tumors in terms of morbidity and mortality. In cancer biology, aberrant signaling pathway regulation is a prevalent theme that drives the generation, metastasis, invasion, and other processes of all malignant tumors. The Wnt/β-catenin, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, Notch and NF-kB pathways are widely concerned and signal crosstalks exist in the five solid tumors. This review provides an innovative summary of the recent progress in research on these signaling pathways, the underlying mechanism of the molecules involved in these pathways, and the important role of some miRNAs in tumor-related signaling pathways. It also presents a brief review of the antitumor molecular drugs that target these signaling pathways. This review may provide a theoretical basis for the study of the molecular biological mechanism of malignant tumors and vital information for the development of new treatment strategies with a focus on efficacy and the reduction of side effects.

Long non-coding RNA SNHG17 enhances the aggressiveness of C4-2 human prostate cancer cells in association with β-catenin signaling

Long non-coding (lnc) RNAs have emerged as important regulators of cancer development and progression. Several lncRNAs have been reported to be associated with prostate cancer (PCa); however, the involvement of lncRNA SNHG17 in PCa remains unclear. In the present study, the mRNA expression level of SNHG17 in 58 pairs of PCa tumor samples and adjacent non-tumor tissues, as well as in PCa tumor cell lines was analyzed. The regulatory effect of SNHG17 on the oncogenic phenotypes of the C4-2 tumor cell line was also investigated. The clinicopathological analysis revealed that SNHG17 mRNA expression level was increased in the PCa tumor samples, and its high expression levels were associated with poor patient outcomes, indicating that SNHG17 may act as a biomarker for the prognosis of PCa. SNHG17 mRNA expression level was also increased in different PCa tumor cell lines. Functionally, SNHG17 increased C4-2 tumor cell growth and aggressiveness by stimulating tumor cell proliferation, survival, invasion and resistance to chemotherapy. Furthermore, SNHG17 promoted in vivo tumor growth in a xenograft mouse model. Notably, the SNHG17-induced in vitro and in vivo oncogenic effects were associated with activation of the β-catenin pathway. The results from the present study revealed that lncRNA SNHG17 could be an important regulator in the oncogenic properties of human PCa and may; therefore, represent a potential PCa therapeutic target.

Long Noncoding RNA LINC-PINT Suppresses Cell Proliferation, Invasion, and EMT by Blocking Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling in Glioblastoma

Background: Glioblastoma (GBM) represents the most aggressive glioma with high invasive potential. Recent studies proved the involvement of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process in increasing the malignancy and invasiveness of GBM. LncRNAs have been verified to play pivotal roles in human disease including GBM. However, the molecular mechanisms of lncRNA-mediated EMT in GBM remain largely unknown. LINC-PINT, a LncRNA which has never been studied in GBM before, was predicted to be negatively associated with EMT in GBM. This study aimed to explore the biological function and the EMT relevance of LINC-PINT in GBM and further explore the molecular mechanism.

Methods: The bioinformatic prediction data of LINC-PINT in GBM was derived from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database by R software and GEPIA website. qRT-PCR assay was performed to detect the expression level of LINC-PINT in GBM cell lines. Cell counting kit-8 (CCK8), clone formation, transwell, and wound healing assays were performed to determine the biological function of LINC-PINT in vivo. Tumor xenograft experiment and tumor peritoneal metastasis experiments were performed to verify the in vivo function. Western blot and immunofluorescence staining assays were carried out to detect the relevance of LINC-PINT with EMT and Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Rescue assays were performed to check the regulation mechanism of LINC-PINT/Wnt signaling/EMT axis in GBM.

Results: LINC-PINT was downregulated in GBM cell lines. LINC-PINT suppressed cell progression, invasion, and EMT in GBM. LINC-PINT blocked Wnt/β-catenin signaling in GBM.

Conclusion: LINC-PINT suppressed cell proliferation, invasion, and EMT by blocking Wnt/β-catenin signaling in GBM.

Long Non-Coding RNA ZNF667-AS1 Knockdown Curbs Liver Metastasis in Acute Myeloid Leukemia by Regulating the microRNA-206/AKAP13 Axis

BACKGROUND

Zinc finger protein 667-antisense RNA 1 (ZNF667-AS1), a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), plays important parts in tumorigenesis and development of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, but its function in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is unknown. Our goal here was to probe the functional mechanism of ZNF667-AS1 in AML by mediating microRNA-206 (miR-206)/A-kinase anchoring protein 13 (AKAP13) axis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The bone marrow samples from AML patients and controls were selected for microarray analysis to select significantly upregulated lncRNAs. Next, effects of ZNF667-AS1 on cell aggressiveness of AML were assessed after delivery of cells with siRNA against ZNF667-AS1. Subcellular fractionation location assay and FISH experiments were used to determine ZNF667-AS1 localization in cells. Dual-luciferase experiments detect the targeting relationships among ZNF667-AS1, miR-206 and AKAP13. Finally, tumor growth and metastasis were evaluated in vivo to determine the relevance of ZNF667-AS1/miR-206/AKAP13 axis.

RESULTS

The expression of ZNF667-AS1 was upregulated in AML patients, which predicted poor prognosis. Downregulation of ZNF667-AS1 reduced cell proliferation, invasion, tumorigenesis and metastasis. miR-206 inhibitor reversed the repressive role of ZNF667-AS1 knockdown in cell proliferation, invasion and tumorigenesis, while AKAP13 silencing flattened the stimulative role of miR-206 inhibitor in AML malignant aggressiveness. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that ZNF667-AS1 functioned as a molecular sponge for miR-206. In addition, we observed that Wnt/β-catenin pathway was suppressed by ZNF667-AS1 knockdown.

CONCLUSION

ZNF667-AS1 potentiated AML progression by targeting the miR-206/AKAP13 axis. This indicates ZNF667-AS 1 inhibition may act as a prospective therapeutic option for the treatment of AML.

PFOS-induced placental cell growth inhibition is partially mediated by lncRNA H19 through interacting with miR-19a and miR-19b

Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), a persistent environmental pollutant, has been associated with decreased birth weight. The dysregulation of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) H19 has been implicated in pregnancy complications such as intra-uterine growth retardation (IUGR), preeclampsia (PE), however, the expression and function of H19 in PFOS-exerted detrimental effects in the placenta remains to be unveiled. Here, we explored the role of H19 in PFOS-induced placental toxicity. Results showed that PFOS caused decreased cell growth in human HTR-8/SVneo cells. Expression of H19 was increased, while miR-19a and miR-19b expression were decreased in mice placenta tissues and in HTR-8/SVneo cells exposed to PFOS. A significant hypomethylation was observed at the H19 promoter in the placentas of mice that were gestational exposed to high dose of PFOS. H19 was confirmed to bind with miR-19a and miR-19b, targeting SMAD4. Furthermore, H19 appeared to partially improve the cell growth of HTR-8/SVneo cells exposed to PFOS via upregulation of miR-19a and miR-19b. In summary, our findings revealed that H19/miR-19a and miR-19b/SMAD4 axis exerted important functions in PFOS-induced placenta cell toxicity.

LUCAT1 Epigenetically Downregulates the Tumor Suppressor Genes CXXC4 and SFRP2 in Gastric Cancer

PURPOSE

The mechanisms of Wnt/β-catenin pathway signaling and abnormal expression of tumor suppressor genes is not well known in gastric cancer (GC). Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) has recently been identified as a possible link therein. In this study, we investigated the role of lung cancer associated transcript 1 (LUCAT1) in GC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The expression of LUCAT1 in GC cell lines and 100 tissue samples was examined by qRT-PCR. Two different siRNAs were used for knockdown of LUCAT1 expression. Cell viability was assessed by MTT assay. To analyze metastasis, scratch wound-healing assay, a Matrigel invasion assay, and colony formation assay were performed. Apoptosis was analyzed by PI/Annexin-V staining. To check the methylation status in tumor suppressor genes, methylation-specific PCR was carried out. Western blot was performed to detect epithelial-mesenchymal transition and apoptosis markers upon silencing of LUCAT1 (siLUCAT1).

RESULTS

LUCAT1 expression in GC cell lines and tissues was significantly elevated, compared to that in normal gastric cells and adjacent non-tumor tissues (p<0.001). Two different siRNAs for LUCAT1 reduced cell proliferation, invasion, and migration, compared to siCT (p<0.05), and these reductions were restored by pcDNA-LUCAT1 (p<0.05). siLUCAT1 elicited upregulation of the expression of CXXC4 and SFRP2. The expression of H3K27me3 was reduced by siLUCAT1, and this reduction was correlated with methylation of CXXC4 and SFRP2. Inhibition of LUCAT1 up-regulated EZH2 expression and resulted in demethylation of CXXC4 and SFRP2 through the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

We concluded that LUCAT1 induces methylation of CXXC4 and SFRP2, thereby regulating Wnt/β-catenin signaling in GC.

Clinical effect and safety evaluation of hydromorphone combined with sufentanil in patient-controlled intravenous analgesia for patients with hepatocellular cancer and its effect on serum immune factors

The present study aimed to explore the clinical efficacy and safety of hydromorphone combined with sufentanil in patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA) for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and its effect on serum immune factors in serum. Data from 385 patients with HCC, admitted to the Hunan Provincial People's Hospital (Changsha, China) from February 2015 to September 2018, were retrospectively analyzed. Laparoscopic hepatectomy was performed in all patients. A total of 180 patients who received PCIA were treated with sufentanil (control group), and 205 patients who received PCIA were treated with hydromorphone and sufentanil (study group). PCIA was used after hepatocellular cancer operation. In the control group, the analgesic pump was filled with sufentanil (2 µg/kg) and tropisetron (5 mg), whereas in the study group, the analgesic pump was filled with sufentanil (2 µg/kg), tropisetron (5 mg) and hydromorphone (5 mg). Both groups of drugs were diluted into 100 ml with normal saline and the loading dose was 5 ml; the continuous dose was 2 ml/h and the single PCIA amount was 2 ml. The visual analogue scale (VAS) and numeric sedation scale (NSS) scores at 12 and 24 h after operation, as well as and satisfaction score at 24 h after operation, were recorded. The levels of CD3⁺, CD4⁺, CD8⁺ lymphocytes and NK cells in the peripheral blood of patients were detected by flow cytometry. The postoperative hospitalization time, first flatulence time, first defecation time and first ambulation time, as well as the adverse reactions, were recorded. The results revealed that the satisfaction score of the patients at 24 h after operation was significantly higher in the study group than that in the control group (P<0.05). Additionally, there were no serious adverse reactions in either group. In conclusion, PCIA with hydromorphone and sufentanil can provide safe and effective analgesia, may improve the levels of immune factors and enhance the recovery ability of the patients.

Inhibition of Wnt signalling pathway by XAV939 enhances radiosensitivity in human cervical cancer HeLa cells

Cervical cancer is the second most common malignant tumour threatening women's health. In recent years, heavy-ion beam therapy is becoming a newly emerging therapeutic mean of cancer; however, radio-resistance and radiation-induced damage constitute the main obstacles for curative treatment of cervical cancer. Therefore, to identify the radiosensitizers is essential. Here, we investigated the effects of Wnt signalling pathway on the response of ¹²C⁶⁺ radiation in HeLa cells. XAV939, an inhibitor of Wnt signalling pathway, was added two hours before ¹²C⁶⁺ radiation.¹²C⁶⁺ radiation inhibited the viability of HeLa cells in a time-dependent manner, and inhibiting Wnt signalling using XAV939 significantly intensified this stress. Meanwhile, ¹²C⁶⁺ radiation induced a significant increased cell apoptosis, G2/M phase arrest, and the number of γ-H2AX foci. Supplementation with XAV939 significantly increased the effects induced by ¹²C⁶⁺ radiation alone. Combining XAV939 with ¹²C⁶⁺ irradiation, the expression of apoptotic genes (p53, Bax, Bcl-2) was significantly increased, while the expression of Wnt-related genes (Wnt3a, Wnt5a, β-catenin, cyclin D1 and c-Myc) was significantly decreased. Overall, these findings suggested that blockage of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway effectively sensitizes HeLa cells to ¹²C⁶⁺ irradiation, and it may be a potential therapeutic approach in terms of increasing the clinical efficacy of ¹²C⁶⁺ beams.

Overexpression of NCAPG inhibits cardia adenocarcinoma apoptosis and promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition through the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Cardia adenocarcinoma (CA) is a distinct form of gastric cancer, and the optimal means of treating it remains controversial. At present, the role of the condensation complex gene non-SMC condensin I complex subunit G (NCAPG) in CA is uncertain, and as such the present study was designed to elucidate its importance in this oncogenic context.

METHODS

We first used bioinformatics approaches to assess NCAPG expression profiles in CA using public databases. Protein profiling was also used to examine the expression of this protein in CA tumors and adjacent tissues from 20 patients. Then the expression of NCAPG in CA samples was quantified via qRT-PCR and Western blotting. NCAPG knockdown and overexpression in the SGC-7901 and AGS cell lines were subsequently performed, after which the expression of key proteins associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT; E-cadherin, vimentin, N-cadherin, Snail, Slug) and the regulation of apoptotic responses (caspase-3, Bax, Bcl-2) was measured. The mechanistic role of NCAPG in CA was additionally studied by analyzing proteins associated with Wnt/β-catenin signaling including Wnt1, phosphorylated GSK3β, β-catenin, and phosphorylated β- catenin. The impact of NCAPG on the migration, survival, and invasion of CA cells was further examined.

RESULTS

CA samples exhibited high NCAPG expression. When this gene was overexpressed in cell lines, it reduced caspase-3, Bax, and E-cadherin levels whereas it elevated Bcl-2, vimentin, N-cadherin, Snail, and Slug levels. NCAPG overexpression also resulted in the enhanced expression of Wnt1, phosphorylated GSK3β, and total β-catenin and the reduced expression of phosphorylated β-catenin. The knockdown of NCAPG, in contrast, yielded the opposite phenotype. At a functional level, the overexpression of NCAPG improved the apoptotic resistance of CA cells while driving them to undergo EMT and to become more invasive and migratory.

CONCLUSIONS

NCAPG overexpression can promote EMT and suppress tumor cell apoptosis via the activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling.

Revisiting cancer hallmarks: insights from the interplay between oxidative stress and non-coding RNAs

Cancer is one of the most common disease worldwide, with complex changes and certain traits which have been described as “The Hallmarks of Cancer.” Despite increasing studies on in-depth investigation of these hallmarks, the molecular mechanisms associated with tumorigenesis have still not yet been fully defined. Recently, accumulating evidence supports the observation that microRNAs and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), two main classes of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), regulate most cancer hallmarks through their binding with DNA, RNA or proteins, or encoding small peptides. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), the byproducts generated during metabolic processes, are known to regulate every step of tumorigenesis by acting as second messengers in cancer cells. The disturbance in ROS homeostasis leads to a specific pathological state termed “oxidative stress”, which plays essential roles in regulation of cancer progression. In addition, the interplay between oxidative stress and ncRNAs is found to regulate the expression of multiple genes and the activation of several signaling pathways involved in cancer hallmarks, revealing a potential mechanistic relationship involving ncRNAs, oxidative stress and cancer. In this review, we provide evidence that shows the essential role of ncRNAs and the interplay between oxidative stress and ncRNAs in regulating cancer hallmarks, which may expand our understanding of ncRNAs in the cancer development from the new perspective.

Long non-coding RNA MINCR aggravates colon cancer via regulating miR-708-5p-mediated Wnt/β-catenin pathway

BACKGROUND

Increasing evidence has found that the dysregulation of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) may be important indicators in tumorigenesis. MYC-induced long non-coding RNA (MINCR) has been found to be related with some cancers, such as non-small cell lung cancer and gallbladder cancer. Besides, MINCR has potentially prognostic value for colon cancer (CC) patients' prognosis, yet its function and molecular mechanism in CC are not explored.

METHODS

qRT-PCR evaluated gene expression, and western blot detected protein level. In vitro and in vivo experiments were adopted to understand the biological role of MINCR in CC. TOP/FOP Flash assay was performed to measure the activity of Wnt/β-catenin pathway. RNA pull down, luciferase reporter and RIP assays were utilized to analyze the relationship among genes. Immunohistochemistry and HE staining techniques were utilized to evaluate Ki67 staining in xenografts.

RESULTS

MINCR was up-regulated in CC cells. Knockdown of MINCR suppressed cell proliferation and migration. MINCR could up-regulate CTNNB1 via sequestering miR-708-5p, resulting in activated Wnt/β-catenin pathway. The addition of LiCl treatment, miR-708-5p inhibitor or pcDNA3.1/CTNNB1 abolished the inhibitory impacts induced by MINCR silence in CC progression.

CONCLUSION

MINCR sponges miR-708-5p to up-regulate CTNNB1 and activate Wnt/β-catenin pathway, thus promoting the development CC. Targeting MINCR might shed new light on the therapeutic strategies of CC.

LncRNA LINC00909 promotes cell proliferation and metastasis in pediatric acute myeloid leukemia via miR-625-mediated modulation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been shown to involve in a variety of cancers. Our present study aimed to explore the exact roles of lncRNA LINC00909 (LINC00909) in the progression of pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and to study the potential molecular mechanism. In this study, the levels of LINC00909 were observed to be distinctly upregulated in AML patients and cell lines. Higher levels of LINC00909 were associated with FAB classification, cytogenetics and poorer prognosis. Functionally, knockdown of LINC00909 suppressed cell viabilities, migration and invasion, and promoted apoptosis of NB4 and HL-60 cells. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that LINC00909 functioned as a molecular sponge for miR-625. In addition, we observed that Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway was suppressed by LINC00909 knockdown. Moreover, miR-625 levels were dramatically decreased in AML cells when Wnt/β-catenin signaling was activated. Overall, our findings identified a new AML-related lncRNA LINC00909 which may represent a novel biomarker and a potential therapeutic target of AML.

Long non-coding RNA ASB16-AS1 enhances cell proliferation, migration and invasion via functioning as a ceRNA through miR-1305/Wnt/β-catenin axis in cervical cancer

BACKGROUND

Cervical cancer (CC) is one of the most common cancers in women. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been proposed as therapeutic targets in CC. Hence, the present study evaluated the effect of ASB16-AS1 on CC via regulating miR-1305.

METHODS

Differentially expressed lncRNAs associated with CC were screened using bioinformatics database. The expression of ASB16-AS1 and miR-1305 were measured by qRT-PCR in CC tissues and CC cells. Cell proliferation was assessed by CCK-8 and colon formation assays. Cell abilities of migration and invasion were detected by Transwell migration and invasion assays. Luciferase report assays were used to explore the correction between ASB16-AS1, miR-1305 and Wnt2 in CC. Western blot assay detect the activity of Wnt/β-catenin pathway. The xenograft tumor in nude mice was observed to evaluate tumor formation in vivo.

RESULTS

In our study, we showed that the expression of ASB16-AS1 was increased while miR-1305 reduced was re in CC. Clinically, ASB16-AS1 and miR-1305 were correlated with poor-associated clinicopathological features of CC patients. Knockdown of ASB16-AS1 reduced CC cells proliferation, migration and invasion abilities by regulating miR-1305 in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, miR-1305 was directly bound to ASB16-AS1 and Wnt2, regulated their expression negatively. Western blot assays showed that ASB16-AS1 functioned as an oncogene by Wnt/β-catenin pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

This study reveals that ASB16-AS1 promotes cell proliferation, migration, invasion via binding miR-1305 with Wnt2, and enhancing the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. ASB16-AS1 may play a new therapeutic target for CC.

Upregulation of long non‑coding RNA CCEPR is associated with poor prognosis and contributes to the progression of ovarian cancer through regulating the Wnt/β‑catenin signaling pathway

Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that the expression of long non‑coding RNAs (lncRNAs) is altered in various types of cancer, which may prove beneficial for their use as biomarkers. Cervical carcinoma expressed PCNA regulatory lncRNA (CCEPR) is a recently identified lncRNA, which has an important role in regulating cell proliferation and apoptosis in cervical and bladder cancer; however, whether CCEPR is involved in the progression of ovarian cancer (OC) remains largely unclear. The aim of the present study was to determine the clinical significance of CCEPR in OC and to investigate its biological roles. Cell Counting Kit‑8 assay was used to analyze cell proliferation, Transwell assay was used to assess invasion, flow cytometric analysis was used to analyze apoptosis, and western blotting was used to perform mechanistic studies. CCEPR expression levels were significantly elevated in OC tissues compared with adjacent non‑cancer tissues. Similarly, significant increases in CCEPR expression were observed in OC cell lines (SK‑OV‑3 and OVCAR‑3) compared with the ovarian surface epithelial cell line, HOSEpiC. The increased expression levels of CCEPR were associated with increased invasion, higher International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage and a poorer overall survival rate. In vitro, the genetic silencing of CCEPR decreased the cell proliferation rate and invasive ability of OC cells, and promoted apoptosis. CCEPR‑silenced OC cells also demonstrated decreased expression levels of four proteins involved in the Wnt/β‑catenin signaling pathway: Cyclin D1, β‑catenin, Myc and matrix metallopeptidase‑7. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that increased expression levels of CCEPR may predict poor prognosis in patients with OC and contribute to the progression of OC through regulating the Wnt/β‑catenin signaling pathway.

Silence of FAM83H-AS1 promotes chemosensitivity of gastric cancer through Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway

Gastric cancer (GC) is a malignant tumor originated from the epithelium of gastric mucosa, its incidence is second only to lung cancer in China. Chemotherapy is one of the most effective methods to treat GC, but some patients are insensitive to chemotherapeutic drugs, leading to chemotherapy failure. In this study, the expression of FAM83H-AS1 was up-regulated in GC tissues and cell lines, and was related to differentiation, invasion depth and chemotherapy insensitivity of GC patients. FAM83H-AS1 was high-expressed in chemoresistant GC tissues and cell line (SGC7901/R), and silence of FAM83H-AS1 sensitized SGC7901/R cells to cisplatin (CDDP) and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). In addition, silence of FAM83H-AS1 could inactivate Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in SGC7901/R cells. The activating of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway reversed the promoting effect of FAM83H-AS1 silence on chemotherapy sensitivity, which meant Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway mediated the regulation of FAM83H-AS1 on chemotherapy sensitivity in SGC7901/R cells. In conclusion, FAM83H-AS1 is related with the CDDP and 5-FU insensitivity of GC patients, silence of FAM83H-AS1 promotes chemosensitivity of GC through Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.

LncARSR sponges miR-129-5p to promote proliferation and metastasis of bladder cancer cells through increasing SOX4 expression

Emerging evidences have indicated that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are potential biomarkers, playing important roles in the development of cancer. LncRNA Activated in RCC with Sunitinib Resistance (lncARSR) is a novel lncRNA that functions as a potential biomarker and is involved in the progression of cancers. However, the clinical significance and molecular mechanism of lncARSR in bladder cancer (Bca) remains unknow. In this study, we discovered that lncARSR was significantly up-regulated in bladder cancer. In addition, increased expression of lncARSR was positively correlated with higher histological grade and larger tumor size. Further experiments demonstrated that suppression of lncARSR attenuated the proliferation, migration, invasion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process of Bca cells. Mechanistically, lncARSR was mainly located in the cytoplasm and acted as a miRNA sponge to positively modulate the expression of Sex-determining region Y-related high-mobility-group box transcription factor 4 (SOX4) via sponging miR-129-5p and subsequently promoted the proliferation and metastasis of Bca cells, thus playing an oncogenic role in Bca pathogenesis. In conclusion, our study indicated that lncARSR plays a critical regulatory role in Bca cells and lncARSR may serve as a potential diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target for bladder cancer.

HOXC-AS1-MYC regulatory loop contributes to the growth and metastasis in gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most prevalent and deadly malignancies worldwide. Accumulating reports have indicated the participation of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the onset and progression of GC.

METHODS

GSE109476 data was utilized to screen out lncRNAs dysregulated in GC. Gene expressions were determined by qRT-PCR and western blot. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments were carried out to assess the function of HOXC-AS1 in GC. The association between genes was verified via RIP, ChIP, CoIP, RNA pull down and luciferase reporter assays, as appropriate.

RESULTS

HOXC-AS1 was discovered to be upregulated in GC and located both in cytoplasm and in nucleus in GC cells. Functionally, inhibition of HOXC-AS1 restrained GC cell growth and metastasis both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, HOXC-AS1 was proved to be trans-activated by c-MYC in GC. In return, HOXC-AS1 positively regulated MYC expression in GC through targeting miR-590-3p/MYC axis in cytoplasm and modulating BRG1/β-catenin complex-activated MYC transcription in nucleus. Furthermore, the rescue assays verified that MYC mediated HOXC-AS1-affected GC progression.

CONCLUSION

Our research illustrated a feedback loop of HOXC-AS1-MYC in aggravating GC cell growth and metastasis, highlighting HOXC-AS1 as a promising target for GC diagnosis and treatment.

Long Non-Coding RNA: Dual Effects on Breast Cancer Metastasis and Clinical Applications

As a highly heterogeneous malignancy, breast cancer (BC) has become the most significant threat to female health. Distant metastasis and therapy resistance of BC are responsible for most of the cases of mortality and recurrence. Distant metastasis relies on an array of processes, such as cell proliferation, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition (MET), and angiogenesis. Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) refers to a class of non-coding RNA with a length of over 200 nucleotides. Currently, a rising number of studies have managed to investigate the association between BC and lncRNA. In this study, we summarized how lncRNA has dual effects in BC metastasis by regulating invasion, migration, and distant metastasis of BC cells. We also emphasize that lncRNA has crucial regulatory effects in the stemness and angiogenesis of BC. Clinically, some lncRNAs can regulate chemotherapy sensitivity in BC patients and may function as novel biomarkers to diagnose or predict prognosis for BC patients. The exact impact on clinical relevance deserves further study. This review can be an approach to understanding the dual effects of lncRNAs in BC, thereby linking lncRNAs to quasi-personalized treatment in the future.

Relevance function of microRNA-708 in the pathogenesis of cancer

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally responsible for regulating >70% of human genes. MicroRNA-708 (miR-708) is encoded in the intron 1 of the Odd Oz/ten-m homolog 4 (ODZ4) gene. Numerous researches have confirmed that the abnormal expressed miR-708 is involved in the regulation of multiple types of cancer. Notably, the expression level of miR-708 was higher in lung cancer, bladder cancer (BC) and colorectal cancer (CRC) cell lines while lower in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), prostate cancer (PC), gastric cancer (GC) and so on. This review provides a current view on the association between miR-708 and several cancers and focuses on the recent studies of miR-708 regulation, discussing its potential as an epigenetic biomarker and therapeutic target for these cancers. In particular, the regulated mechanisms and clinical application of miR-708 in these cancers are also discussed.

Integrative analysis of the lncRNA-associated ceRNA network reveals lncRNAs as potential prognostic biomarkers in human muscle-invasive bladder cancer

Background

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play important roles in competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks involved in the development and progression of various cancers, including muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC).

Purpose

This study aims to construct the lncRNA-associated ceRNA network and identify lncRNA signatures correlated with the clinical features of MIBC tissue samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TGCA) database.

Methods

The differential expression profiles of MIBC associated lncRNAs, miRNAs and mRNAs were obtained from TCGA. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were performed to determine the principal functions of significantly dysregulated mRNAs. The dysregulated lncRNA-associated ceRNA network of MIBC was constructed based on the bioinformatics data, and the correlations between lncRNA expression and clinical features were analyzed using a weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA). Six cancer specific lncRNAs from the ceRNA network were randomly selected to detect their expression in 32 paired MIBC tissue samples and 5 bladder cancer cell lines using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR).

Results

The ceRNA network was constructed with 30 lncRNAs, 13 miRNAs and 32 mRNAs. Seventeen lncRNAs in the ceRNA network correlated with certain clinical features, and only 1 lncRNA (MIR137HG) correlated with the overall survival (OS) of patients with MIBC (log-rank test P<0.05). GO and KEGG analyses revealed roles for the potential mRNA targets of MIR137HG in epithelial cell differentiation and the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) signaling pathways. The expression data from TCGA were highly consistent with the verification results of the MIBC tissue samples and bladder cancer cell lines.

Conclusion

These findings improve our understanding of the regulatory mechanism of the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA ceRNA network and reveal potential lncRNAs as prognostic biomarkers of MIBC.

LncRNA CASC11 promotes the cervical cancer progression by activating Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Studies have shown that cancer susceptibility candidate 11 (CASC11), a newly discovered long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), was aberrantly overexpressed in hepatic carcinoma, gastric cancer and colorectal cancer. However, its effects on cervical cancer has been kept unknown up to now. The present study was aimed to investigate the relationship between lncRNA CASC11 and cervical cancer and further explore the mechanism of CASC11 effect on cervical cancer progression.

MATERIALS

Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to detect the expressions of CASC11 in cancerous and adjacent normal tissues of patients with cervical cancer as well as in cell lines. The proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis were assayed after transfecting the cell with si-CASC11 or pcDNA3.1-CASC11. TOP/FOP-Flash luciferase reporter assay and western blot were used to analysis the activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Si-CASC11-transfected HeLa cells were subcutaneously inoculated into male athymic (nude) mice to investigate the effect of CASC11 on the tumor formation.

RESULTS

We discovered that CASC11, the expression of which was positively associated with the tumor size and the FIGO staging and negatively related to the patients' survival rate, was up-regulated in the cervical cancer tissues and cell lines. Silencing CASC11 inhibited the proliferation, migration as well as invasion and promoted the cell apoptosis. Conversely, overexpression of CASC11 facilitated the cancer cell's proliferation, migration and invasion ability and suppressed the apoptosis. Further study showed that CASC11 promoted the migration and invasion of cervical cancer cells by activating Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and silencing CASC11 inhibited the tumor growth in vivo.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrated that CASC11 promoted the cervical cancer progression by activating Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway for the first time, which provides a new target or a potential diagnostic biomarker of the treatment for cervical cancer.