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Abtahi MS, Fotouhi A, Rezaei N, Akalin H, Ozkul Y, Hossein-Khannazer N, Vosough M. Nano-based drug delivery systems in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Drug Target 2024:1-19. [PMID: 38847573 DOI: 10.1080/1061186x.2024.2365937] [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: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/19/2024]
Abstract
The high recurrence rate of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and poor prognosis after medical treatment reflects the necessity to improve the current chemotherapy protocols, particularly drug delivery methods. Development of targeted and efficient drug delivery systems (DDSs), in all active, passive and stimuli-responsive forms for selective delivery of therapeutic drugs to the tumour site has been extended to improve efficacy and reduce the severe side effects. Recent advances in nanotechnology offer promising breakthroughs in the diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of cancer cells. In this review, the specific design of DDSs based on the different nano-particles and their surface engineering is discussed. In addition, the innovative clinical studies in which nano-based DDS was used in the treatment of HCC were highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Sadat Abtahi
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Fotouhi
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic), Tehran, Iran
| | - Niloufar Rezaei
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hilal Akalin
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Yusuf Ozkul
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Nikoo Hossein-Khannazer
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Massoud Vosough
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Experimental Cancer Medicine, Institution for Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
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2
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Roshani M, Rezaian-Isfahni A, Lotfalizadeh MH, Khassafi N, Abadi MHJN, Nejati M. Metal nanoparticles as a potential technique for the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal cancer: a comprehensive review. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:280. [PMID: 37981671 PMCID: PMC10657605 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-03115-1] [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: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer is a major health problem worldwide, and current diagnostic and therapeutic approaches are often inadequate. Various metallic nanoparticles (MNPs) have been widely studied for several biomedical applications, including cancer. They may potentially overcome the challenges associated with conventional chemotherapy and significantly impact the overall survival of GI cancer patients. Functionalized MNPs with targeted ligands provide more efficient localization of tumor energy deposition, better solubility and stability, and specific targeting properties. In addition to enhanced therapeutic efficacy, MNPs are also a diagnostic tool for molecular imaging of malignant lesions, enabling non-invasive imaging or detection of tumor-specific or tumor-associated antigens. MNP-based therapeutic systems enable simultaneous stability and solubility of encapsulated drugs and regulate the delivery of therapeutic agents directly to tumor cells, which improves therapeutic efficacy and minimizes drug toxicity and leakage into normal cells. However, metal nanoparticles have been shown to have a cytotoxic effect on cells in vitro. This can be a concern when using metal nanoparticles for cancer treatment, as they may also kill healthy cells in addition to cancer cells. In this review, we provide an overview of the current state of the field, including preparation methods of MNPs, clinical applications, and advances in their use in targeted GI cancer therapy, as well as the advantages and limitations of using metal nanoparticles for the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal cancer such as potential toxicity. We also discuss potential future directions and areas for further research, including the development of novel MNP-based approaches and the optimization of existing approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Roshani
- Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Colorectal Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arya Rezaian-Isfahni
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Negar Khassafi
- Anatomical Sciences Research Center, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hassan Jafari Najaf Abadi
- Research Center for Health Technology Assessment and Medical Informatics, School of Public Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.
| | - Majid Nejati
- Anatomical Sciences Research Center, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.
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3
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Escutia-Gutiérrez R, Sandoval-Rodríguez A, Zamudio-Ojeda A, Guevara-Martínez SJ, Armendáriz-Borunda J. Advances of Nanotechnology in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Clin Med 2023; 12:6867. [PMID: 37959332 PMCID: PMC10647688 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12216867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising technology in the field of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), specifically in the implementation of diagnosis and treatment strategies. Nanotechnology-based approaches, such as nanoparticle-based contrast agents and nanoscale imaging techniques, have shown great potential for enhancing the sensitivity and specificity of HCC detection. These approaches provide high-resolution imaging and allow for the detection of molecular markers and alterations in cellular morphology associated with HCC. In terms of treatment, nanotechnology has revolutionized HCC therapy by enabling targeted drug delivery, enhancing therapeutic efficacy, and minimizing off-target effects. Nanoparticle-based drug carriers can be functionalized with ligands specific to HCC cells, allowing for selective accumulation of therapeutic agents at the tumor site. Furthermore, nanotechnology can facilitate combination therapy by co-encapsulating multiple drugs within a single nanoparticle, allowing for synergistic effects and overcoming drug resistance. This review aims to provide an overview of recent advances in nanotechnology-based approaches for the diagnosis and treatment of HCC. Further research is needed to optimize the design and functionality of nanoparticles, improve their biocompatibility and stability, and evaluate their long-term safety and efficacy. Nonetheless, the integration of nanotechnology in HCC management holds great promise and may lead to improved patient outcomes in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebeca Escutia-Gutiérrez
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genomics, Institute for Molecular Biology in Medicine and Gene Therapy, Health Sciences University Center, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, Mexico; (R.E.-G.); (A.S.-R.)
| | - Ana Sandoval-Rodríguez
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genomics, Institute for Molecular Biology in Medicine and Gene Therapy, Health Sciences University Center, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, Mexico; (R.E.-G.); (A.S.-R.)
| | - Adalberto Zamudio-Ojeda
- Department of Physics, Exact Sciences and Engineering University Center, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, Mexico;
| | - Santiago José Guevara-Martínez
- Department of Physics, Exact Sciences and Engineering University Center, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, Mexico;
| | - Juan Armendáriz-Borunda
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genomics, Institute for Molecular Biology in Medicine and Gene Therapy, Health Sciences University Center, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, Mexico; (R.E.-G.); (A.S.-R.)
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Zapopan 45201, Mexico
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4
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Alqurashi YE, Al-Hetty HRAK, Ramaiah P, Fazaa AH, Jalil AT, Alsaikhan F, Gupta J, Ramírez-Coronel AA, Tayyib NA, Peng H. Harnessing function of EMT in hepatocellular carcinoma: From biological view to nanotechnological standpoint. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 227:115683. [PMID: 36933639 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Management of cancer metastasis has been associated with remarkable reduction in progression of cancer cells and improving survival rate of patients. Since 90% of mortality are due to cancer metastasis, its suppression can improve ability in cancer fighting. The EMT has been an underlying cause in increasing cancer migration and it is followed by mesenchymal transformation of epithelial cells. HCC is the predominant kind of liver tumor threatening life of many people around the world with poor prognosis. Increasing patient prognosis can be obtained via inhibiting tumor metastasis. HCC metastasis modulation by EMT and HCC therapy by nanoparticles are discussed here. First of all, EMT happens during progression and advanced stages of HCC and therefore, its inhibition can reduce tumor malignancy. Moreover, anti-cancer compounds including all-trans retinoic acid and plumbaging, among others, have been considered as inhibitors of EMT. The EMT association with chemoresistance has been evaluated. Moreover, ZEB1/2, TGF-β, Snail and Twist are EMT modulators in HCC and enhancing cancer invasion. Therefore, EMT mechanism and related molecular mechanisms in HCC are evaluated. The treatment of HCC has not been only emphasized on targeting molecular pathways with pharmacological compounds and since drugs have low bioavailability, their targeted delivery by nanoparticles promotes HCC elimination. Moreover, nanoparticle-mediated phototherapy impairs tumorigenesis in HCC by triggering cell death. Metastasis of HCC and even EMT mechanism can be suppressed by cargo-loaded nanoparticles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaser E Alqurashi
- Department of Biology, College of Science Al-zulfi, Majmaah University, Al-Majmaah, 11952, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | | | - Abduladheem Turki Jalil
- Medical Laboratories Techniques Department, Al-Mustaqbal University College, Babylon, Hilla, 51001, Iraq
| | - Fahad Alsaikhan
- College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Jitendra Gupta
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, GLA University, Mathura, Pin Code 281406, U. P., India
| | - Andrés Alexis Ramírez-Coronel
- Azogues Campus Nursing Career, Health and Behavior Research Group (HBR), Psychometry and Ethology Laboratory, Catholic University of Cuenca, Ecuador; Epidemiology and Biostatistics Research Group, CES University, Colombia; Educational Statistics Research Group (GIEE), National University of Education, Ecuador
| | - Nahla A Tayyib
- Faculty of Nursing, Umm Al- Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hu Peng
- Department of Emergency, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200072, China.
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5
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Wang L, Chen M, Ran X, Tang H, Cao D. Sorafenib-Based Drug Delivery Systems: Applications and Perspectives. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:2638. [PMID: 37376284 DOI: 10.3390/polym15122638] [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: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
As a Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved molecular-targeted chemotherapeutic drug, sorafenib (SF) can inhibit angiogenesis and tumor cell proliferation, leading to improved patient overall survival of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In addition, SF is an oral multikinase inhibitor as a single-agent therapy in renal cell carcinoma. However, the poor aqueous solubility, low bioavailability, unfavorable pharmacokinetic properties and undesirable side effects (anorexia, gastrointestinal bleeding, and severe skin toxicity, etc.) seriously limit its clinical application. To overcome these drawbacks, the entrapment of SF into nanocarriers by nanoformulations is an effective strategy, which delivers SF in a target tumor with decreased adverse effects and improved treatment efficacy. In this review, significant advances and design strategies of SF nanodelivery systems from 2012 to 2023 are summarized. The review is organized by type of carriers including natural biomacromolecule (lipid, chitosan, cyclodextrin, etc.); synthetic polymer (poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid), polyethyleneimine, brush copolymer, etc.); mesoporous silica; gold nanoparticles; and others. Co-delivery of SF and other active agents (glypican-3, hyaluronic acid, apolipoprotein peptide, folate, and superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles) for targeted SF nanosystems and synergistic drug combinations are also highlighted. All these studies showed promising results for targeted treatment of HCC and other cancers by SF-based nanomedicines. The outlook, challenges and future opportunities for the development of SF-based drug delivery are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Functional Molecular Engineering of Guangdong Province, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, South China University of Technology, 381 Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510641, China
| | - Meihuan Chen
- Key Laboratory of Functional Molecular Engineering of Guangdong Province, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, South China University of Technology, 381 Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510641, China
| | - Xueguang Ran
- Institute of Animal Science, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science in South China, State Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Breeding, Guangzhou 510641, China
| | - Hao Tang
- Key Laboratory of Functional Molecular Engineering of Guangdong Province, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, South China University of Technology, 381 Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510641, China
| | - Derong Cao
- Key Laboratory of Functional Molecular Engineering of Guangdong Province, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, South China University of Technology, 381 Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510641, China
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6
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Basu A, Namporn T, Ruenraroengsak P. Critical Review in Designing Plant-Based Anticancer Nanoparticles against Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:1611. [PMID: 37376061 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15061611] [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: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), accounting for 85% of liver cancer cases, continues to be the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Although various forms of chemotherapy and immunotherapy have been investigated in clinics, patients continue to suffer from high toxicity and undesirable side effects. Medicinal plants contain novel critical bioactives that can target multimodal oncogenic pathways; however, their clinical translation is often challenged due to poor aqueous solubility, low cellular uptake, and poor bioavailability. Nanoparticle-based drug delivery presents great opportunities in HCC therapy by increasing selectivity and transferring sufficient doses of bioactives to tumor areas with minimal damage to adjacent healthy cells. In fact, many phytochemicals encapsulated in FDA-approved nanocarriers have demonstrated the ability to modulate the tumor microenvironment. In this review, information about the mechanisms of promising plant bioactives against HCC is discussed and compared. Their benefits and risks as future nanotherapeutics are underscored. Nanocarriers that have been employed to encapsulate both pure bioactives and crude extracts for application in various HCC models are examined and compared. Finally, the current limitations in nanocarrier design, challenges related to the HCC microenvironment, and future opportunities are also discussed for the clinical translation of plant-based nanomedicines from bench to bedside.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aalok Basu
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University, 447 Sri-Ayutthaya Rd., Rajathevi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Thanaphon Namporn
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University, 447 Sri-Ayutthaya Rd., Rajathevi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Pakatip Ruenraroengsak
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University, 447 Sri-Ayutthaya Rd., Rajathevi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
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7
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Raut H, Jadhav C, Shetty K, Laxane N, Nijhawan HP, Rao GSNK, Alavala RR, Joshi G, Patro CN, Soni G, Yadav KS. Sorafenib tosylate novel drug delivery systems: implications of nanotechnology in both approved and unapproved indications. OPENNANO 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.onano.2022.100103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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8
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Sousa DP, Conde J. Gold Nanoconjugates for miRNA Modulation in Cancer Therapy: From miRNA Silencing to miRNA Mimics. ACS MATERIALS AU 2022; 2:626-640. [PMID: 36397876 PMCID: PMC9650716 DOI: 10.1021/acsmaterialsau.2c00042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Cancer is a major healthcare burden and cause of death
worldwide,
with an estimated 19.3 million new cancer cases and 10 million cancer
deaths globally only in 2020. While several anticancer therapeutics
are available to date, many of these still show low treatment efficacy
and high off-target effects and adverse reactions. This prompts a
serious need to develop novel therapies that can decrease the side
effects and increase treatment efficacy. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) can have
a role in tumor development and progression, making them important
targets for the improvement of anticancer therapies. In this context,
gold nanoparticles have been widely studied for different clinical
applications due to their biocompatibility and possibility of customization,
and gold nanoconjugates targeting miRNAs are being developed for cancer
diagnosis and treatment. Here we summarize the research developed
so far and how it can contribute to cancer treatment, discuss how
it can be improved, and present the current challenges and future
perspectives on their design and application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana P. Sousa
- NOVA Medical School
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS
- FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa 1169-056, Portugal
- ToxOmics, NOVA Medical School
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS
- FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa 1169-056, Portugal
| | - João Conde
- NOVA Medical School
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS
- FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa 1169-056, Portugal
- ToxOmics, NOVA Medical School
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS
- FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa 1169-056, Portugal
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9
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Ho CM, Lin KT, Shen R, Gu DL, Lee SS, Su WH, Jou YS. Prognostic comparative genes predict targets for sorafenib combination therapies in hepatocellular carcinoma. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2022; 20:1752-1763. [PMID: 35495118 PMCID: PMC9024375 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2022.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Large-scale comparative transcriptomics analysis of hepatocellular carcinoma reveals 664 prognostic comparative HCC (pcHCC) genes. pcHCC genes included novel targets with potential utility in sorafenib combination therapies. Knockdown of the selective pcHCC genes NCAPG and CENPW downregulated the p38/STAT3 axis to enhance sorafenib combination treatments.
With the increasing incidence and mortality of human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) worldwide, revealing innovative targets to improve therapeutic strategies is crucial for prolonging the lives of patients. To identify innovative targets, we conducted a comprehensive comparative transcriptome analysis of 5,410 human HCCs and 974 mouse liver cancers to identify concordantly expressed genes associated with patient survival. Among the 664 identified prognostic comparative HCC (pcHCC) genes, upregulated pcHCC genes were associated with prognostic clinical features, including large tumor size, vascular invasion and late HCC stages. Interestingly, after validating HCC patient prognoses in multiple independent datasets, we matched the 664 aberrant pcHCC genes with the sorafenib-altered genes in TCGA_LIHC patients and found these 664 pcHCC genes were enriched in sorafenib-related functions, such as downregulated xenobiotic and lipid metabolism and upregulated cell proliferation. Therapeutic agents targeting aberrant pcHCC genes presented divergent molecular mechanisms, including suppression of sorafenib-unrelated oncogenic pathways, induction of sorafenib-unrelated ferroptosis, and modulation of sorafenib transportation and metabolism, to potentiate sorafenib therapeutic effects in HCC combination therapy. Moreover, the pcHCC genes NCAPG and CENPW, which have not been targeted in combination with sorafenib treatment, were knocked down and combined with sorafenib treatment, which reduced HCC cell viability based on disruption to the p38/STAT3 axis, thereby hypersensitizing HCC cells. Together, our results provide important resources and reveal that 664 pcHCC genes represent innovative targets suitable for developing therapeutic strategies in combination with sorafenib based on the divergent synergistic mechanisms for HCC tumor suppression.
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10
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Hu X, Zhu H, Shen Y, Zhang X, He X, Xu X. The Role of Non-Coding RNAs in the Sorafenib Resistance of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2021; 11:696705. [PMID: 34367979 PMCID: PMC8340683 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.696705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second most common cause of cancer-related death. Sorafenib is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to be a first-line chemotherapy agent for patients with advanced HCC. A portion of advanced HCC patients can benefit from the treatment with sorafenib, but many patients ultimately develop sorafenib resistance, leading to a poor prognosis. The molecular mechanisms of sorafenib resistance are sophisticated and indefinite. Notably, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), which include long ncRNAs (lncRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs), are critically participated in the occurrence and progression of tumors. Moreover, growing evidence has suggested that ncRNAs are crucial regulators in the development of resistance to sorafenib. Herein, we integrally and systematically summarized the molecular mechanisms and vital role of ncRNAs impact sorafenib resistance of HCC, and ultimately explored the potential clinical administrations of ncRNAs as new prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyao Hu
- Department of Oncology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Cancer Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hua Zhu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yang Shen
- Department of Oncology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Cancer Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaoyu Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Cancer Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaoqin He
- Department of Oncology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Cancer Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ximing Xu
- Department of Oncology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Cancer Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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11
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Donovan PD, McHale NM, Venø MT, Prehn JHM. tsRNAsearch: A pipeline for the identification of tRNA and ncRNA fragments from small RNA-sequencing data. Bioinformatics 2021; 37:4424-4430. [PMID: 34255836 DOI: 10.1093/bioinformatics/btab515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
MOTIVATION tRNAs were originally considered uni-functional RNA molecules involved in the delivery of amino acids to growing peptide chains on the ribosome. More recently, the liberation of tRNA fragments from tRNAs via specific enzyme cleavage has been characterized. Detection of tRNA fragments in sequencing data is difficult due to tRNA sequence redundancy and the short length of both tRNAs and their fragments. RESULTS Here we introduce tsRNAsearch, a Nextflow pipeline for the identification of differentially abundant tRNA fragments and other non-coding RNAs from small RNA-sequencing data. tsRNAsearch is intended for use when comparing two groups of datasets, such as control and treatment groups. tsRNAsearch comparatively searches for tRNAs and ncRNAs with irregular read distribution profiles (a proxy for RNA cleavage) using a combined score made up of four novel methods and a differential expression analysis, and reports the top ranked results in simple PDF and TEXT files. In this study, we used publicly available small RNA-seq data to replicate the identification of tsRNAs from chronic hepatitis-infected liver tissue data. In addition, we applied tsRNAsearch to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and matched healthy pancreatic tissue small RNA-sequencing data. Our results support the identification of miR135b from the original study as a potential biomarker of PDAC and identify other potentially stronger miRNA biomarkers of PDAC. AVAILABILITY https://github.com/GiantSpaceRobot/tsRNAsearch. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul D Donovan
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Centre for Systems Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, St Stephen's Green, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Natalie M McHale
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Centre for Systems Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, St Stephen's Green, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Jochen H M Prehn
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Centre for Systems Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, St Stephen's Green, Dublin, Ireland
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12
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Therapeutic strategies for miRNA delivery to reduce hepatocellular carcinoma. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2021; 124:134-144. [PMID: 33926792 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Malignancies of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are rapidly spreading and commonly fatal. Like most cancers, the gene expression patterns in HCC vary significantly from patient to patient. Moreover, the expression networks during HCC progression are largely controlled by microRNAs (miRNAs) regulating multiple oncogenes and tumor supressors. Therefore, miRNA-based therapeutic strategies altering these networks may significantly influence the cellular behavior enough for them to cure HCC. However, the most substantial challenges in developing such therapies are the stability of the oligos themselves and that of their delivery systems. Here we provide a comprehensive update describing various miRNA delivery systems, including virus-based delivery and non-viral delivery. The latter may be achieved using inorganic nanoparticles, polymer based nano-carriers, lipid-based vesicles, exosomes, and liposomes. Leaky vasculature in HCC-afflicted livers helps untargeted nanocarriers to accumulate in the tumor tissue but may result in side effects during higher dose of treatment. On the other hand, the strategies for actively targeting miRNA therepeutics to cancerous cells through nano-conjugates or vesicles by decorating their surface with antibodies against or ligands for HCC-specific antigens or receptors are more efficient in preventing damage to healthy tissue and cancer recurrence.
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13
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Estevinho MM, Fernandes C, Silva JC, Gomes AC, Afecto E, Correia J, Carvalho J. Role of ATP-binding Cassette Transporters in Sorafenib Therapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: an overview. Curr Drug Targets 2021; 23:21-32. [PMID: 33845738 DOI: 10.2174/1389450122666210412125018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Revised: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Molecular therapy with sorafenib remains the mainstay for advanced-stage hepatocellular carcinoma. Notwithstanding, treatment efficacy is low, with few patients obtaining long-lasting benefits due to the high chemoresistance rate. OBJECTIVE To perform, for the first time, an overview of the literature concerning the role of adenosine triphosphate-binding cassette (ABC) transporters in sorafenib therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma. METHODS Three online databases (PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus) were searched, from inception to October 2020. Studies selection, analysis and data collection was independently performed by two authors. RESULTS The search yielded 224 results; 29 were selected for inclusion. Most studies were pre-clinical, using HCC cell lines; three used human samples. Studies highlight the effect of sorafenib in decreasing ABC transporters expression. Conversely, it is described the role of ABC transporters, particularly multidrug resistance protein 1 (MDR-1), multidrug resistance-associated proteins 1 and 2 (MRP-1 and MRP-2) and ABC subfamily G member 2 (ABCG2) in sorafenib pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, being key resistance factors. Combination therapy with naturally available or synthetic compounds that modulate ABC transporters may revert sorafenib resistance, by increasing absorption and intracellular concentration. CONCLUSION A deeper understanding of ABC transporters' mechanisms may provide guidance for developing innovative approaches for hepatocellular carcinoma. Further studies are warranted to translate the current knowledge into practice and paving the way to individualized therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Manuela Estevinho
- Department of Gastroenterology, Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho Hospital Center, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal. b Department of Biomedicine, Unit of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto. Portugal
| | - Carlos Fernandes
- Department of Gastroenterology, Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho Hospital Center, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal. b Department of Biomedicine, Unit of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto. Portugal
| | - João Carlos Silva
- Department of Gastroenterology, Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho Hospital Center, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal. b Department of Biomedicine, Unit of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto. Portugal
| | - Ana Catarina Gomes
- Department of Gastroenterology, Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho Hospital Center, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal. b Department of Biomedicine, Unit of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto. Portugal
| | - Edgar Afecto
- Department of Gastroenterology, Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho Hospital Center, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal. b Department of Biomedicine, Unit of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto. Portugal
| | - João Correia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho Hospital Center, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal. b Department of Biomedicine, Unit of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto. Portugal
| | - João Carvalho
- Department of Gastroenterology, Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho Hospital Center, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal. b Department of Biomedicine, Unit of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto. Portugal
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Kong FH, Ye QF, Miao XY, Liu X, Huang SQ, Xiong L, Wen Y, Zhang ZJ. Current status of sorafenib nanoparticle delivery systems in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:5464-5490. [PMID: 33859758 PMCID: PMC8039945 DOI: 10.7150/thno.54822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of liver cancer and one of the leading causes of cancer-related death worldwide. Advanced HCC displays strong resistance to chemotherapy, and traditional chemotherapy drugs do not achieve satisfactory therapeutic efficacy. Sorafenib is an oral kinase inhibitor that inhibits tumor cell proliferation and angiogenesis and induces cancer cell apoptosis. It also improves the survival rates of patients with advanced liver cancer. However, due to its poor solubility, fast metabolism, and low bioavailability, clinical applications of sorafenib have been substantially restricted. In recent years, various studies have been conducted on the use of nanoparticles to improve drug targeting and therapeutic efficacy in HCC. Moreover, nanoparticles have been extensively explored to improve the therapeutic efficacy of sorafenib, and a variety of nanoparticles, such as polymer, lipid, silica, and metal nanoparticles, have been developed for treating liver cancer. All these new technologies have improved the targeted treatment of HCC by sorafenib and promoted nanomedicines as treatments for HCC. This review provides an overview of hot topics in tumor nanoscience and the latest status of treatments for HCC. It further introduces the current research status of nanoparticle drug delivery systems for treatment of HCC with sorafenib.
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Ghafouri-Fard S, Honarmand Tamizkar K, Hussen BM, Taheri M. MicroRNA signature in liver cancer. Pathol Res Pract 2021; 219:153369. [PMID: 33626406 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2021.153369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Liver cancer is the 7th utmost frequent neoplasm and the 4th principal source of cancer deaths. This malignancy is linked with several environmental and lifestyle-related factors emphasizing the role of epigenetics in its pathogenesis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been regarded as potent epigenetic mechanisms partaking in the pathogenesis of liver cancer. Dysregulation of miRNAs has been related with poor outcome of patients with liver cancer. In the current manuscript, we provide a concise review of the results of recent studies about the role of miRNAs in the progression of liver cancer and their diagnostic and prognostic utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soudeh Ghafouri-Fard
- Department of Medical Genetics, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Bashdar Mahmud Hussen
- Pharmacognosy Department, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Mohammad Taheri
- Urology and Nephrology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Hwang GR, Yuen JG, Ju J. Roles of microRNAs in Gastrointestinal Cancer Stem Cell Resistance and Therapeutic Development. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041624. [PMID: 33562727 PMCID: PMC7915611 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Resistance to cancer treatment is one of the major challenges currently faced when treating gastrointestinal (GI) cancers. A major contributing factor to this resistance is the presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in GI cancers (e.g., colorectal, pancreatic, gastric, liver cancer). Non-coding RNAs, such as microRNAs (miRNAs), have been found to regulate several key targets that are responsible for cancer stemness, and function as oncogenic miRNAs (oncomiRs) or tumor suppressor miRNAs. As a result, several miRNAs have been found to alter, or be altered by, the expression of CSC-defining markers and their related pathways. These miRNAs can be utilized to affect stemness in multiple ways, including directly targeting CSCs and enhancing the efficacy of cancer therapeutics. This review highlights current studies regarding the roles of miRNAs in GI CSCs, and efforts towards the development of cancer therapeutics.
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Effects of miRNA-140 on the Growth and Clinical Prognosis of SMMC-7721 Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Line. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:6638915. [PMID: 33628799 PMCID: PMC7884124 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6638915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 12/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Background A growing number of studies have suggested that microRNAs exert an essential role in the development and occurrence of multiple tumours and act as crucial regulators in various biological processes. However, the expression and function of miRNA-140 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells are not yet adequately identified and manifested. Methods The expression of miRNA-140 was determined in HCC tissues and adjacent nontumour tissues by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox regression analysis were performed to explore the correlation between miRNA-140 expression level and the survival rate of patients with HCC. Additionally, overexpression experiments were conducted to investigate the biological role of miRNA-140 in HCC cells. Bioinformatics was used to predict the related target genes and pathways of miRNA-140. Results QRT-PCR results signified that the expression level of miRNA-140 in HCC was lower than that of adjacent normal tissues (P < 0.0001). Compared with the control group, the SMMC-7721 HCC cells in the miRNA-140 mimic group had a decrease in proliferation, migration, and invasion (P < 0.05), whereas those in the miRNA-140 inhibitor group had an increase in proliferation, migration, and invasion (P < 0.05). Cell cycle arrest occurred in the G0/1 phase. Prognosis analysis showed that the expression level of miRNA-140 was not related to the prognosis of HCC. Furthermore, the Kaplan-Meier test revealed that patients with lower miRNA-140 expression levels in liver cancer tissue had significantly shorter disease-free survival (DFS, P = 0.004) and overall survival (OS) times (P = 0.010) after hepatectomy. Cox regression analysis further indicated that miRNA-140 was an independent risk factor that may affect the DFS (P = 0.004) and OS times (P = 0.014) of patients after hepatectomy. Our results suggested that miRNA-140 might be a crucial regulator involved in the HCC progression and is thus considered a potential prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for HCC.
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Ezhilarasan D. Advantages and challenges in nanomedicines for chronic liver diseases: A hepatologist's perspectives. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 893:173832. [PMID: 33359144 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.173832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Chronic liver diseases (CLD) are responsible for significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. CLD patients are at a high risk of developing progressive liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and subsequent liver failure. To date, there is no specific and effective therapies exist for patients with various forms of CLD. The application of nanotechnology has emerged as a rapidly developing area of interest for the safe and target-specific delivery of poorly aqueous soluble hepatoprotective agents and nucleic acids (siRNA/miRNAs) in CLD. The nanoparticle combination improves bioavailability and plasma stability of drugs with poor aqueous solubility. However, the extent of successful functional delivery of nanoparticles into hepatocytes is often surprisingly low. High Kupffer cells interaction reduces the nanomedicine efficacy. During fibrosis, the extracellular matrix accumulation in the perisinusoidal space restricts nanoparticle delivery to hepatocytes. The availability and uptake of nanoparticles exposure to different cells in the liver microenvironment is as Kupffer cells > sinusoidal endothelial cells > HSCs > hepatocytes. The most widely used strategy to reduce nanoparticles and macrophages interaction is to coat the particle surface with polyethylene glycol. The cationic charged nanoparticles have increased hepatocyte delivery by increased cellular interaction by disrupting the endosomal system via their pH buffering capacity. The immune clearance and toxicity of nanoparticles are mainly unpredictable. Therefore, more elaborate knowledge on exact cellular uptake and intracellular accumulation, trafficking, and endosomal sorting of nanoparticle is the need of the hour to improve the rational carrier design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devaraj Ezhilarasan
- Department of Pharmacology, Drug and Molecular Medicine Laboratory (The Blue Lab), Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), No.162, PH Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600 077, India.
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Kundu D, Kennedy L, Meadows V, Baiocchi L, Alpini G, Francis H. The Dynamic Interplay Between Mast Cells, Aging/Cellular Senescence, and Liver Disease. Gene Expr 2020; 20:77-88. [PMID: 32727636 PMCID: PMC7650013 DOI: 10.3727/105221620x15960509906371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Mast cells are key players in acute immune responses that are evidenced by degranulation leading to a heightened allergic response. Activation of mast cells can trigger a number of different pathways contributing to metabolic conditions and disease progression. Aging results in irreversible physiological changes affecting all organs, including the liver. The liver undergoes senescence, changes in protein expression, and cell signaling phenotypes during aging, which regulate disease progression. Cellular senescence contributes to the age-related changes. Unsurprisingly, mast cells also undergo age-related changes in number, localization, and activation throughout their lifetime, which adversely affects the etiology and progression of many physiological conditions including liver diseases. In this review, we discuss the role of mast cells during aging, including features of aging (e.g., senescence) in the context of biliary diseases such as primary biliary cholangitis and primary sclerosing cholangitis and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debjyoti Kundu
- *Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Lindsey Kennedy
- *Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Vik Meadows
- *Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Leonardo Baiocchi
- †Department of Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Alpini
- *Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- ‡Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Heather Francis
- *Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- ‡Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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Gerosa C, Crisponi G, Nurchi VM, Saba L, Cappai R, Cau F, Faa G, Van Eyken P, Scartozzi M, Floris G, Fanni D. Gold Nanoparticles: A New Golden Era in Oncology? Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2020; 13:E192. [PMID: 32806755 PMCID: PMC7464886 DOI: 10.3390/ph13080192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the spectrum of possible applications of gold in diagnostics and therapeutic approaches in clinical practice has changed significantly, becoming surprisingly broad. Nowadays, gold-based therapeutic agents are used in the therapy of multiple human diseases, ranging from degenerative to infectious diseases and, in particular, to cancer. At the basis of these performances of gold, there is the development of new gold-based nanoparticles, characterized by a promising risk/benefit ratio that favors their introduction in clinical trials. Gold nanoparticles appear as attractive elements in nanomedicine, a branch of modern clinical medicine, which combines high selectivity in targeting tumor cells and low toxicity. Thanks to these peculiar characteristics, gold nanoparticles appear as the starting point for the development of new gold-based therapeutic strategies in oncology. Here, the new gold-based therapeutic agents developed in recent years are described, with particular emphasis on the possible applications in clinical practice as anticancer agents, with the aim that their application will give rise to a new golden age in oncology and a breakthrough in the fight against cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Gerosa
- UOC Anatomia Patologica, AOU Cagliari, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (C.G.); (F.C.); (G.F.)
| | - Guido Crisponi
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell’Ambiente, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (V.M.N.); (R.C.)
| | - Valeria Marina Nurchi
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell’Ambiente, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (V.M.N.); (R.C.)
| | - Luca Saba
- UOC Radiologia, AOU Cagliari, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Rosita Cappai
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell’Ambiente, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (V.M.N.); (R.C.)
| | - Flaviana Cau
- UOC Anatomia Patologica, AOU Cagliari, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (C.G.); (F.C.); (G.F.)
| | - Gavino Faa
- UOC Anatomia Patologica, AOU Cagliari, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (C.G.); (F.C.); (G.F.)
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA
| | - Peter Van Eyken
- Department of Pathology, Genk Regional Ziekenhuis, 3600 Genk, Belgium;
| | - Mario Scartozzi
- UOC Oncologia Medica, AOU Cagliari, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Floris
- Pathologische Ontleedkunde K.U. Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
| | - Daniela Fanni
- UOC Anatomia Patologica, AOU Cagliari, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (C.G.); (F.C.); (G.F.)
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MicroRNA-221: A Fine Tuner and Potential Biomarker of Chronic Liver Injury. Cells 2020; 9:cells9081767. [PMID: 32717951 PMCID: PMC7464779 DOI: 10.3390/cells9081767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The last decade has witnessed significant advancements in our understanding of how small noncoding RNAs, such as microRNAs (miRNAs), regulate disease progression. One such miRNA, miR-221, has been shown to play a key role in the progression of liver fibrosis, a common feature of most liver diseases. Many reports have demonstrated the upregulation of miR-221 in liver fibrosis caused by multiple etiologies such as viral infections and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Inhibition of miR-221 via different strategies has shown promising results in terms of the suppression of fibrogenic gene signatures in vitro, as well as in vivo, in independent mouse models of liver fibrosis. In addition, miR-221 has also been suggested as a noninvasive serum biomarker for liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. In this review, we discuss the biology of miR-221, its significance and use as a biomarker during progression of liver fibrosis, and finally, potential and robust approaches that can be utilized to suppress liver fibrosis via inhibition of miR-221.
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