Identification of a novel microRNA-141-3p/Forkhead box C1/β-catenin axis associated with rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblast function in vivo and in vitro

Forkhead box C1 promotes the pathology of osteoarthritis in subchondral bone osteoblasts via the Piezo1/YAP axis

Subchondral bone sclerosis is a key characteristic of osteoarthritis (OA). Prior research has shown that Forkhead box C1 (FoxC1) plays a role in the synovial inflammation of OA, but its specific role in the subchondral bone of OA has not been explored. Our research revealed elevated expression levels of FoxC1 and Piezo1 in OA subchondral bone tissues. Further experiments on OA subchondral bone osteoblasts with FoxC1 or Piezo1 overexpression showed increased cell proliferation activity, expression of Yes-associated Protein 1 (YAP) and osteogenic markers, and secretion of proinflammatory factors. Mechanistically, the overexpression of FoxC1 through Piezo1 activation, in combination with downstream YAP signaling, led to increased levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), collagen type 1 (COL1) A1, RUNX2, Osteocalcin, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 3, and MMP9 expression. Notably, inhibition of Piezo1 reversed the regulatory function of FoxC1. The binding of FoxC1 to the targeted area (ATATTTATTTA, residues +612 to +622) and the activation of Piezo1 transcription were verified by the dual luciferase assays. Additionally, Reduced subchondral osteosclerosis and microangiogenesis were observed in knee joints from FoxC1-conditional knockout (CKO) and Piezo1-CKO mice, indicating reduced lesions. Collectively, our study reveals the significant involvement of FoxC1 in the pathologic process of OA subchondral bone via the Piezo1/YAP signaling pathway, potentially establishing a novel therapeutic target.

LncRNA XIST modulates miR-328-3p ectopic expression in lung injury induced by tobacco-specific lung carcinogen NNK both in vitro and in vivo

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

It is well acknowledged that tobacco-derived lung carcinogens can induce lung injury and even lung cancer through a complex mechanism. MicroRNAs (MiRNAs) are differentially expressed in tobacco-derived carcinogen nicotine-derived nitrosamine ketone (NNK)-treated A/J mice.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

RNA sequencing was used to detect the level of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). Murine and human lung normal and cancer cells were used to evaluate the function of lncRNA XIST and miR-328-3p in vitro, and NNK-treated A/J mice were used to test their function in vivo. In vivo levels of miR-328-3p and lncRNA XIST were analysed, using in situ hybridization. miR-328-3p agomir and lncRNA XIST-specific siRNA were used to manipulate in vivo levels of miR-328-3p and lncRNA XIST in A/J mice.

KEY RESULTS

LncRNA XIST was up-regulated in NNK-induced lung injury and dominated the NNK-induced ectopic miRNA expression in NNK-induced lung injury both in vitro and in vivo. Either lncRNA XIST silencing or miR-328-3p overexpression exerted opposing effects in lung normal and cancer cells regarding cell migration. LncRNA XIST down-regulated miR-328-3p levels as a miRNA sponge, and miR-328-3p targeted the 3'-UTR of FZD7 mRNA, which is ectopically overexpressed in lung cancer patients. Both in vivo lncRNA XIST silencing and miR-328 overexpression could rescue NNK-induced lung injury and aberrant overexpression of the lung cancer biomarker CK19 in NNK-treated A/J mice.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Our results highlight the promotive effect of lncRNA XIST in NNK-induced lung injury and elucidate its post-transcriptional mechanisms, indicating that targeting lncRNA XIST/miR-328-3p could be a potential therapeutic strategy to prevent tobacco carcinogen-induced lung injury in vivo.

Unveiling Novel Drug Targets and Emerging Therapies for Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Comprehensive Review

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic debilitating autoimmune disease, that causes joint damage, deformities, and decreased functionality. In addition, RA can also impact organs like the skin, lungs, eyes, and blood vessels. This autoimmune condition arises when the immune system erroneously targets the joint synovial membrane, resulting in synovitis, pannus formation, and cartilage damage. RA treatment is often holistic, integrating medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. Its main objective is to achieve remission or low disease activity by utilizing a "treat-to-target" approach that optimizes drug usage and dose adjustments based on clinical response and disease activity markers. The primary RA treatment uses disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) that help to interrupt the inflammatory process. When there is an inadequate response, a combination of biologicals and DMARDs is recommended. Biological therapies target inflammatory pathways and have shown promising results in managing RA symptoms. Close monitoring for adverse effects and disease progression is critical to ensure optimal treatment outcomes. A deeper understanding of the pathways and mechanisms will allow new treatment strategies that minimize adverse effects and maintain quality of life. This review discusses the potential targets that can be used for designing and implementing precision medicine in RA treatment, spotlighting the latest breakthroughs in biologics, JAK inhibitors, IL-6 receptor antagonists, TNF blockers, and disease-modifying noncoding RNAs.

miR-141-3p attenuates inflammation and oxidative stress-induced pulmonary fibrosis in ARDS via the Keap1/Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway

The present research aimed to investigate the effects and mechanisms of microRNA (miR)-141-3p on pulmonary fibrosis of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). A rat ARDS model was established by the intratracheal drip of 10 mg/kg lipopolysaccharide (LPS). miR-141-3p and Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) expression was detected using RT-qPCR assay. Inflammatory factors in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and lung tissues were measured with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Lung fibrosis was evaluated using Masson's trichrome staining and hydroxyproline assay kits. Tissue oxidative stress marker levels were assessed by a commercial kit. Protein variations in the EMT pathway and Keap1/nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/antioxidant response element (ARE) pathway were investigated by Western blot analysis. Targeting relationship verified by dual-luciferase reporter assay. The expression of miR-141-3p was significantly upregulated in LPS-induced ARDS rats, while Keap1 was downregulated. Overexpression of miR-141-3p decreased the levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione (GSH) while elevating malondialdehyde (MDA) expression in LPS-induced ARDS rats. Elevation of miR-141-3p reduced fibrosis scores, enhanced E-cadherin protein expression, and decreased vimentin and α-SMA protein expression in LPS-induced ARDS rats. This elevation of miR-141-3p also upregulated Nrf2, heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and NAD(P)H:quinone oxido-reductase-1 (NQO1) proteins levels. Moreover, Keap1 overexpression reversed the inhibitory effects of miR-141-3p on LPS-triggered inflammation, oxidative stress, and fibrosis. miR-141-3p may attenuate inflammation and oxidative stress-induced pulmonary fibrosis in ARDS via the Keap1/Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway. Our study provides new ideas for the treatment of ARDS.

Silencing of forkhead box C1 reduces nasal epithelial barrier damage in mice with allergic rhinitis via epigenetically upregulating secreted frizzled-related protein 5

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is caused by immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated reactions to inhaled allergens, which leads to mucosal inflammation and barrier dysfunction. The transcription factor forkhead box C1 (FOXC1) has been identified to be associated with allergic inflammation. This study sought to uncover the role of FOXC1 in AR. A murine model of AR was induced by repeated intranasal ovalbumin (OVA) challenges. Results revealed that high FOXC1 expression was found in the nasal mucosal epithelium of AR mice. Nasal allergy symptoms, mucosal epithelial swelling, goblet cell hyperplasia and eosinophil infiltration in AR mice were attenuated after silencing of FOXC1. Knockdown of FOXC1 decreased the levels of T-helper 2 cytokines interleukin(IL)-4 and IL-13 in nasal lavage fluid, and serum OVA-specific IgE and histamine. Silencing of FOXC1 restored nasal epithelial integrity in AR mice by enhancing the expression of tight junctions (TJs) and adherence junction. Furthermore, knocking down FOXC1 increased tight junction expression and transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) in IL-13-treated air-liquid interface (ALI) cultures of human nasal epithelial cells (HNEpCs). Mechanistically, silencing of FOXC1 induced DNA methylation of secreted frizzled-related protein 5 (SFRP5) promoter and increased its expression in the nasal mucosa of AR mice and IL-13-treated ALI cultures. FOXC1 overexpression transcriptionally activated DNA methyltransferase 3B (DNMT3B) in IL-13-treated ALI cultures. Knockdown of SFRP5 reversed the protection of FOXC1 silencing on epithelial barrier damage induced by IL-13. Collectively, silencing of FOXC1 reduced allergic inflammation and nasal epithelial barrier damage in AR mice via upregulating SFRP5, which may be attribute to DNMT3B-driven DNA methylation. Our study indicated that FOXC1 may represent a potential therapeutic target for AR.

Development and validation of a novel biomarker panel for Crohn's disease and rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis and treatment

BACKGROUND

Crohn's disease (CD) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are immune-mediated inflammatory diseases. However, the molecular mechanisms linking these two diseases remain unclear.

METHODS

To identify shared core genes between CD and RA, we employed differential gene analysis and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) algorithm. Functional annotation of these core biomarkers was performed using consensus clustering and gene set enrichment analysis. We also constructed a protein-protein network and a miRNA-mRNA network using multiple databases, and potential therapeutic agents targeting the core biomarkers were predicted. Finally, we confirmed the expression of the genes in the biomarker panel in both CD and RA using quantitative PCR.

RESULTS

A total of five shared core genes, namely C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 10 (CXCL10), C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 9 (CXCL9), aquaporin 9 (AQP9), secreted phosphoprotein 1 (SPP1), and metallothionein 1M (MT1M), were identified as core biomarkers. These biomarkers activate classical pro-inflammatory and immune signaling pathways, influencing immune cell aggregation. Additionally, testosterone was identified as a potential therapeutic agent targeting the biomarkers identified in this study. The expression of genes in the biomarker panel in CD and RA was confirmed through quantitative PCR.

CONCLUSION

Our study revealed some core genes shared between CD and RA and established a novel biomarker panel with potential implications for the diagnosis and treatment of these diseases.

The Role of Histone Deacetylases in NLRP3 Inflammasomesmediated Epilepsy

Epilepsy is one of the most common brain disorders that not only causes death worldwide, but also affects the daily lives of patients. Previous studies have revealed that inflammation plays an important role in the pathophysiology of epilepsy. Activation of inflammasomes can promote neuroinflammation by boosting the maturation of caspase-1 and the secretion of various inflammatory effectors, including chemokines, interleukins, and tumor necrosis factors. With the in-depth research on the mechanism of inflammasomes in the development of epilepsy, it has been discovered that NLRP3 inflammasomes may induce epilepsy by mediating neuronal inflammatory injury, neuronal loss and blood-brain barrier dysfunction. Therefore, blocking the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasomes may be a new epilepsy treatment strategy. However, the drugs that specifically block NLRP3 inflammasomes assembly has not been approved for clinical use. In this review, the mechanism of how HDACs, an inflammatory regulator, regulates the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome is summarized. It helps to explore the mechanism of the HDAC inhibitors inhibiting brain inflammatory damage so as to provide a potential therapeutic strategy for controlling the development of epilepsy.

Inhibiting MicroRNA-141-3p Improves Musculoskeletal Health in Aged Mice

Emerging evidence shows that the microRNA-141-3p is involved in various age-related pathologies. Previously, our group and others reported elevated levels of miR-141-3p in several tissues and organs with age. Here, we inhibited the expression of miR-141-3p using antagomir (Anti-miR-141-3p) in aged mice and explored its role in healthy aging. We analyzed serum (cytokine profiling), spleen (immune profiling), and overall musculoskeletal phenotype. We found decreased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (such as TNF-α, IL-1β, IFN-γ) in serum with Anti-miR-141-3p treatment. The flow-cytometry analysis on splenocytes revealed decreased M1 (pro-inflammatory) and increased M2 (anti-inflammatory) populations. We also found improved bone microstructure and muscle fiber size with Anti-miR-141-3p treatment. Molecular analysis revealed that miR-141-3p regulates the expression of AU-rich RNA-binding factor 1 (AUF1) and promotes senescence (p21, p16) and pro-inflammatory (TNF-α, IL-1β, IFN-γ) environment whereas inhibiting miR-141-3p prevents these effects. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the expression of FOXO-1 transcription factor was reduced with Anti-miR-141-3p and elevated with silencing of AUF1 (siRNA-AUF1), suggesting crosstalk between miR-141-3p and FOXO-1. Overall, our proof-of-concept study demonstrates that inhibiting miR-141-3p could be a potential strategy to improve immune, bone, and muscle health with age.

Silencing circSERPINE2 restrains mesenchymal stem cell senescence via the YBX3/PCNA/p21 axis

Increasing evidence indicates that circular RNAs (circRNAs) accumulate in aging tissues and nonproliferating cells due to their high stability. However, whether upregulation of circRNA expression mediates stem cell senescence and whether circRNAs can be targeted to alleviate aging-related disorders remain unclear. Here, RNA sequencing analysis of differentially expressed circRNAs in long-term-cultured mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) revealed that circSERPINE2 expression was significantly increased in late passages. CircSERPINE2 small interfering RNA delayed MSC senescence and rejuvenated MSCs, while circSERPINE2 overexpression had the opposite effect. RNA pulldown followed by mass spectrometry revealed an interaction between circSERPINE2 and YBX3. CircSERPINE2 increased the affinity of YBX3 for ZO-1 through the CCAUC motif, resulting in the sequestration of YBX3 in the cytoplasm, inhibiting the association of YBX3 with the PCNA promoter and eventually affecting p21 ubiquitin-mediated degradation. In addition, our results demonstrated that senescence-related downregulation of EIF4A3 gave rise to circSERPINE2. In vivo, intra-articular injection of si-circSerpine2 restrained native joint-resident MSC senescence and cartilage degeneration in mice with aging-related osteoarthritis. Taken together, our findings provide strong evidence for a regulatory role for the circSERPINE2/YBX3/PCNA/p21 axis in MSC senescence and the therapeutic potential of si-circSERPINE2 in alleviating aging-associated syndromes, such as osteoarthritis.

CD5L aggravates rheumatoid arthritis progression via promoting synovial fibroblasts proliferation and activity

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease with progressive cartilage erosion and joint destruction. Synovial fibroblasts (SFs) play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of RA. This study aims to explore the function and mechanism of CD5L during RA progression. We examined the levels of CD5L in synovial tissues and SFs. The collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rat models were used to investigate the effect of CD5L on RA progression. We also investigated the effects of exogenous CD5L on the behavior and activity of RA synovial fibroblasts (RASFs). Our results showed that CD5L expression was significantly upregulated in synovium of RA patients and CIA-rats. Histology and Micro-CT analysis showed that synovial inflammation and bone destruction were more severe in CD5L-treated CIA rats compared with control rats. Correspondingly, CD5L blockade alleviated bone damage and synovial inflammation in CIA-rats. The exogenous CD5L treatment promoted RASFs proliferation invasion and proinflammatory cytokine production. Knockdown of CD5L receptor by siRNA significantly reversed the effect of CD5L treatment on RASFs. Moreover, we observed that CD5L treatment potentiated PI3K/Akt signaling in the RASFs. The promoted effects of CD5L on IL-6 and IL-8 expression were significantly reversed by PI3K/Akt signaling inhibitor. In conclusion, CD5L promote RA disease progression via activating RASFs. CD5L blocking is a potential therapeutic approach for RA patients.

Role of miRNAs in Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapy

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic systemic inflammatory disease characterized by autoimmunity, synovial inflammation and joint destruction. Pannus formation in the synovial cavity can cause irreversible damage to the joint and cartilage and eventually permanent disability. Current conventional treatments for RA have limitations regarding efficacy, safety and cost. microRNA (miRNA) is a type of non-coding RNA (ncRNA) that regulates gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. The dysregulation of miRNA has been observed in RA patients and implicated in the pathogenesis of RA. miRNAs have emerged as potential biomarkers or therapeutic agents. In this review, we explore the role of miRNAs in various aspects of RA pathophysiology, including immune cell imbalance, the proliferation and invasion of fibroblast-like synovial (FLS) cell, the dysregulation of inflammatory signaling and disturbance in angiogenesis. We delve into the regulatory effects of miRNAs on Treg/Th17 and M1/M2 polarization, the activation of the NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway, neovascular formation, energy metabolism induced by FLS-cell-induced energy metabolism, apoptosis, osteogenesis and mobility. These findings shed light on the potential applications of miRNAs as diagnostic or therapeutic biomarkers for RA management. Furthermore, there are some strategies to regulate miRNA expression levels by utilizing miRNA mimics or exosomes and to hinder miRNA activity via competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network-based antagonists. We conclude that miRNAs offer a promising avenue for RA therapy with unlimited potential.

Pertussis toxin-induced inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in dendritic cells promotes an autoimmune response in experimental autoimmune uveitis

BACKGROUND

Previous reports have indicated that disrupting the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in dendritic cells (DCs) may affect the progression of autoimmune inflammation; however, the factors and timing that regulate Wnt/β-catenin signaling have not been clearly understood.

METHODS

Experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU) mice and Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease (VKH) patient samples were used to detect the expression of Wnt/β-catenin pathway genes. Western blot, real-time PCR, flow cytometry, and ELISA were performed to examine the expression of components of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and inflammatory factors. DC-specific β-catenin knockout mice and 6-bromoindirubin-3'-oxime (BIO) administered mice were used to observe the effect of disrupting the Wnt pathway on EAU pathogenesis.

RESULTS

Wnt/β-catenin signaling was inhibited in DCs during the induction phase of EAU. The inhibition was mediated by pertussis toxin (PTX), which promoted DC maturation, in turn promoting pathogenic T cell proliferation and differentiation. In vivo experiments confirmed that deleting β-catenin in DCs enhanced EAU severity, and pre-injection of PTX advanced EAU onset. Administration of a Wnt activator (BIO) limited the effects of PTX, in turn ameliorating EAU.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrate that PTX plays a key role as a virulence factor in initiating autoimmune inflammation via DCs by inhibiting Wnt/β-catenin signaling in EAU, and highlight the potential mechanism by which infection can trigger apparent autoimmunity.

Differentiated embryonic chondrocyte expressed gene-1 is a central signaling component in the development of collagen-induced rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is one of the most common autoimmune diseases and affects almost 1% of the population. Differentiated embryo-chondrocyte expressed gene-1 (DEC1) has been associated with both osteogenesis and osteoclastogenesis. RA condition is marked by inflammatory hyperplasia, and DEC1 is known to support inflammatory reactions and implicated in antiapoptosis and cell invasion. Here, our goal was to test the hypothesis that DEC1 enhances RA development induced by collagen-induced arthritis (CIA), a well-recognized protocol for developing RA animal models. DEC1^+/+ and DEC1^-/- mice were subjected to CIA protocol, and the development of RA condition was monitored. We found that CIA robustly induced RA phenotypes (e.g., synovial hyperplasia) and greatly increased the expression of proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α. However, these changes were detected in DEC1^+/+ but not DEC1^-/- mice. Interestingly, these very cytokines strongly induced DEC1, and such a dual role of DEC1, as an inducer for and being induced by proinflammatory cytokines, constitutes a DEC1-amplifying circuit for inflammation. Knockdown of DEC1 in human MH7A cells strongly decreased cell migration and invasion as well as the expression of genes related to RA phenotypes. The combination of DEC1-directed migration and invasion in vitro with synovial hyperplasia in vivo mechanistically establishes cellular bases on how DEC1 is involved in the development of RA phenotypes. In addition to inflammatory signaling, DEC1 functionally interacted with PI3KCA(p110α)/Akt/GSK3β, Wnt/β-catenin, and NFATc1. Such engagement in multiple signaling pathways suggests that DEC1 plays coordinated and integral roles in developing RA, one of the most common autoimmune diseases.

Comprehensive overview of microRNA function in rheumatoid arthritis

MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a class of endogenous single-stranded short noncoding RNAs, have emerged as vital epigenetic regulators of both pathological and physiological processes in animals. They direct fundamental cellular pathways and processes by fine-tuning the expression of multiple genes at the posttranscriptional level. Growing evidence suggests that miRNAs are implicated in the onset and development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). RA is a chronic inflammatory disease that mainly affects synovial joints. This common autoimmune disorder is characterized by a complex and multifaceted pathogenesis, and its morbidity, disability and mortality rates remain consistently high. More in-depth insights into the underlying mechanisms of RA are required to address unmet clinical needs and optimize treatment. Herein, we comprehensively review the deregulated miRNAs and impaired cellular functions in RA to shed light on several aspects of RA pathogenesis, with a focus on excessive inflammation, synovial hyperplasia and progressive joint damage. This review also provides promising targets for innovative therapies of RA. In addition, we discuss the regulatory roles and clinical potential of extracellular miRNAs in RA, highlighting their prospective applications as diagnostic and predictive biomarkers.

Dimethylamino group modified polydopamine nanoparticles with positive charges to scavenge cell-free DNA for rheumatoid arthritis therapy

Excessive cell-free DNA (cfDNA) released by damaged or apoptotic cells can cause inflammation, impacting the progression of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). cfDNA scavengers, such as cationic nanoparticles (NPs), have been demonstrated as an efficient strategy for treating RA. However, most scavengers are limited by unfavorable biocompatibility and poor scavenging efficacy. Herein, by exploiting the favorable biocompatibility, biodegradability and bioadhesion of polydopamine (P), we modified P with dimethylamino groups to form altered charged DPs to bind negatively charged cfDNA for RA therapy. Results showed that DPs endowed with superior binding affinity of cfDNA and little cytotoxicity, which effectively inhibited lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulated inflammation in vitro, resulting in the relief of joint swelling, synovial hyperplasia and cartilage destruction in RA rats. Significantly, DPs with higher DS of bis dimethylamino group exhibited higher positive charge density and stronger cfDNA binding affinity, leading to excellent RA therapeutic effect among all of the treated groups, which was even close to normal rats. These finding provides a novel strategy for the treatment of cfDNA-associated diseases.

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Novel dimethylamino modified PDA NPs is applied as cfDNA scavenger.

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The high positively charged modified P displays high binding affinity of cfDNA.

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High positive charge density of cfDNA scavenger endows high efficacy RA therapy.

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Novel biocompatible cfDNA scavenger aims for cfDNA associated diseases therapy.

Tetrandrine-induced downregulation of lncRNA NEAT1 inhibits rheumatoid arthritis progression through the STAT3/miR-17-5p pathway

BACKGROUND

The inhibitory effect of Tetrandrine (Tet) on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is well established. However, its exact molecular mechanism remains unknown.

METHODS

RT-qPCR coupled with western blotting was employed to analyze the expression of NEAT1, miR-17-5p, and STAT3 in RA tissues and/or RA-fibroblast-like synoviocytes (RA-FLS) treated with 3 μmol/L of Tet for 48 h. Cell Counting Kit-8 assay and flow cytometry were performed to assess RA-FLS proliferation and apoptosis. Luciferase reporter assays were used to validate the interactions between miR-17-5p and STAT3 or NEAT1.

RESULTS

The expression of NEAT1 decreased in a time-dependent manner upon Tet treatment. Tet significantly inhibited RA-FLS proliferation and triggered apoptosis by downregulating NEAT1 expression. Additionally, NEAT1 directly targeted miR-17-5p to upregulate STAT3 expression. Tet-induced low NEAT1 expression impaired RA-FLS growth by targeting miR-17-5p and inhibiting STAT3.

CONCLUSION

Tet exerts its inhibitory role in RA progression by regulating the NEAT1/miR-17-5p/STAT3 pathway.

Fibronectin-1 is a dominant mechanism for rheumatoid arthritis via the mediation of synovial fibroblasts activity

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has a high incidence and adverse effects on patients, thus posing a serious threat to people’s life and health. However, the underlying mechanisms regarding the development of RA are still elusive. Herein, we aimed to evaluate the RA-associated molecular mechanisms using the scRNA-seq technique. We used the GEO database to obtain scRNA-seq datasets for synovial fibroblasts (SFs) from RA cases, and the genes were then analyzed using principal component analysis (PCA) and T-Stochastic Neighbor Embedding (TSNE) analyses. Bioinformatics evaluations were carried out for asserting the highly enriched signaling pathways linked to the marker genes, and the key genes related to RA initiation were further identified. According to the obtained results, 3 cell types (0, 1, and 2) were identified by TSNE and some marker genes were statistically upregulated in cell type 1 than the other cell types. These marker genes predominantly contributed to extracellular matrix (ECM) architecture, collagen-harboring ECM, and ECM structural components, and identified as enriched with PI3K/AKT signaling cascade. Notably, fibronectin-1 (FN-1) has been identified as a critical gene that is strongly linked to the development of SFs and has enormous promise for regulating the onset of RA. Moreover, such an investigation offers novel perspectives within onset/progression of RA, suggesting that FN-1 may be a key therapeutic target for RA therapies.

The osteoporosis risk variant rs9820407 at 3p22.1 acts as an allele-specific enhancer to regulate CTNNB1 expression by long-range chromatin loop formation

Previous powerful genome-wide association studies (GWASs) and whole-genome sequencing have identified multiple single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) located over 69 kb upstream of CTNNB1 at 3p22.1 locus associated with osteoporosis. The CTNNB1 gene encodes β-catenin that is an integral part of adherens junctions and the primary mediator of the canonical Wnt signaling pathway. The causal variants and underlying molecular mechanisms of the osteoporosis susceptibility locus 3p22.1 remains unknown. Through comprehensive computational analyses, including expression quantitative trait locus (eQTL), high-throughput chromatin interaction (Hi-C), epigenomic and functional annotation, four enhancer SNPs (rs9820407, rs9878224, rs454690 and rs9832204) were prioritized as potential causal SNPs at 3p22.1 for osteoporosis. Rs9820407 displayed the strongest enhancer activity in dual-luciferase assays. Specifically, the minor rs9820407-A can preferentially bind transcription factor FOXC1, elevate the enhancer activity and increase CTNNB1 expression. The architectural protein CTCF was presumably involved in long-range chromatin interaction between rs9820407 and CTNNB1. Our study provided a mechanistic insight into how noncoding enhancer SNP rs9820407 distally regulates CTNNB1 expression and modulates osteoporosis risk.

miR-141-3p inhibits the activation of astrocytes and the release of inflammatory cytokines in bacterial meningitis through down-regulating HMGB1

BACKGROUND

Bacterial meningitis (BM) is a serious infectious disease of the central nervous system that often occurs in children and adolescents. Many studies have suggested that microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in BM. This study aimed to address the effects of miR-141-3p on astrocyte activation and inflammatory response in BM through HMGB1.

METHODS

The 3-week-old rats were injected with Streptococcus pneumoniae (SP) into the lateral ventricle to establish a BM model. Loeffler scoring method was used to evaluate the recovery of neurological function. Brain pathological damage was observed by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. Primary astrocytes were isolated from brain tissues of BM or non-infected SD rats. The levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in brain tissues and astrocyte culture supernatant were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The targeting relationship between miR-141-3p and HMGB1 was tested using dual-luciferase reporter assay. The expression of miR-141-3p, HMGB1, and the astrocytic marker glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) or western blotting. Methylation-specific PCR (MSP) analysis was performed to measure the methylation status of miR-141 promoter.

RESULTS

The results showed that lower Loeffler scores were exhibited in rats with BM. The subarachnoid space of brain tissues of BM rats was widened, and obvious inflammatory cells were observed. miR-141-3p expression was reduced in BM rats and SP-treated astrocytes. Additionally, we found that overexpression of miR-141-3p led to the downregulation of HMGB1, GFAP, and inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) in astrocytes. Furthermore, the results of dual-luciferase reporter assay confirmed that miR-141-3p directly targeted HMGB1. Overexpression of miR-141-3p inhibited the levels of GFAP, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in astrocytes, which was eliminated by the up-regulation of HMGB1. The results of MSP analysis indicated that miR-141 promoter was highly methylated in brain tissues and astrocytes. DNMT1 was involved in the methylation of miR-141 promoter in BM.

CONCLUSION

The present study verified that miR-141-3p affected inflammatory response by suppressing HMGB1 in SP-induced astrocytes and BM rat model.

The non-coding RNA interactome in joint health and disease

Non-coding RNAs have distinct regulatory roles in the pathogenesis of joint diseases including osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). As the amount of high-throughput profiling studies and mechanistic investigations of microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs and circular RNAs in joint tissues and biofluids has increased, data have emerged that suggest complex interactions among non-coding RNAs that are often overlooked as critical regulators of gene expression. Identifying these non-coding RNAs and their interactions is useful for understanding both joint health and disease. Non-coding RNAs regulate signalling pathways and biological processes that are important for normal joint development but, when dysregulated, can contribute to disease. The specific expression profiles of non-coding RNAs in various disease states support their roles as promising candidate biomarkers, mediators of pathogenic mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets. This Review synthesizes literature published in the past 2 years on the role of non-coding RNAs in OA and RA with a focus on inflammation, cell death, cell proliferation and extracellular matrix dysregulation. Research to date makes it apparent that 'non-coding' does not mean 'non-essential' and that non-coding RNAs are important parts of a complex interactome that underlies OA and RA.

Gamma-irradiation fluctuates the mRNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) spectrum of bone marrow in hematopoietic injury

Humans benefit from nuclear technologies but consequently experience nuclear disasters or side effects of iatrogenic radiation. Hematopoietic system injury first arises upon radiation exposure. As an intricate new layer of genetic control, the posttranscriptional m⁶A modification of RNA has recently come under investigation and has been demonstrated to play pivotal roles in multiple physiological and pathological processes. However, how the m⁶A methylome functions in the hematopoietic system after irradiation remains ambiguous. Here, we uncovered the time-varying epitranscriptome-wide m⁶A methylome and transcriptome alterations in γ-ray-exposed mouse bone marrow. 4 Gy γ-irradiation rapidly (5 min and 2 h) and severely impaired the mouse hematopoietic system, including spleen and thymus weight, blood components, tissue inflammation and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. The m⁶A content and expression of m⁶A related enzymes were altered. Gamma-irradiation triggered dynamic and reversible m⁶A modification profiles and altered mRNA expression, where both m⁶A fold-enrichment and mRNA expression most followed the (5 min_up/2 h_down) pattern. The CDS enrichment region preferentially upregulated m⁶A peaks at 5 min. Moreover, the main GO and KEGG pathways were closely related to metabolism and the classical radiation response. Finally, m⁶A modifications correlated with transcriptional regulation of genes in multiple aspects. Blocking the expression of m⁶A demethylases FTO and ALKBH5 mitigated radiation hematopoietic toxicity. Together, our findings present the comprehensive landscape of mRNA m⁶A methylation in the mouse hematopoietic system in response to γ-irradiation, shedding light on the significance of m⁶A modifications in mammalian radiobiology. Regulation of the epitranscriptome may be exploited as a strategy against radiation damage.

Oligonucleotide Therapies in the Treatment of Arthritis: A Narrative Review

Osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are two of the most common chronic inflammatory joint diseases, for which there remains a great clinical need to develop safer and more efficacious pharmacological treatments. The pathology of both OA and RA involves multiple tissues within the joint, including the synovial joint lining and the bone, as well as the articular cartilage in OA. In this review, we discuss the potential for the development of oligonucleotide therapies for these disorders by examining the evidence that oligonucleotides can modulate the key cellular pathways that drive the pathology of the inflammatory diseased joint pathology, as well as evidence in preclinical in vivo models that oligonucleotides can modify disease progression.

Promising Therapeutic Targets for Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic poly-articular chronic autoimmune joint disease that mainly damages the hands and feet, which affects 0.5% to 1.0% of the population worldwide. With the sustained development of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), significant success has been achieved for preventing and relieving disease activity in RA patients. Unfortunately, some patients still show limited response to DMARDs, which puts forward new requirements for special targets and novel therapies. Understanding the pathogenetic roles of the various molecules in RA could facilitate discovery of potential therapeutic targets and approaches. In this review, both existing and emerging targets, including the proteins, small molecular metabolites, and epigenetic regulators related to RA, are discussed, with a focus on the mechanisms that result in inflammation and the development of new drugs for blocking the various modulators in RA.

The Expression of Non-Coding RNAs and Their Target Molecules in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Molecular Basis for Rheumatoid Pathogenesis and Its Potential Clinical Applications

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a typical autoimmune-mediated rheumatic disease presenting as a chronic synovitis in the joint. The chronic synovial inflammation is characterized by hyper-vascularity and extravasation of various immune-related cells to form lymphoid aggregates where an intimate cross-talk among innate and adaptive immune cells takes place. These interactions facilitate production of abundant proinflammatory cytokines, chemokines and growth factors for the proliferation/maturation/differentiation of B lymphocytes to become plasma cells. Finally, the autoantibodies against denatured immunoglobulin G (rheumatoid factors), EB virus nuclear antigens (EBNAs) and citrullinated protein (ACPAs) are produced to trigger the development of RA. Furthermore, it is documented that gene mutations, abnormal epigenetic regulation of peptidylarginine deiminase genes 2 and 4 (PADI2 and PADI4), and thereby the induced autoantibodies against PAD2 and PAD4 are implicated in ACPA production in RA patients. The aberrant expressions of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) including microRNAs (miRs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the immune system undoubtedly derange the mRNA expressions of cytokines/chemokines/growth factors. In the present review, we will discuss in detail the expression of these ncRNAs and their target molecules participating in developing RA, and the potential biomarkers for the disease, its diagnosis, cardiovascular complications and therapeutic response. Finally, we propose some prospective investigations for unraveling the conundrums of rheumatoid pathogenesis.

FOXC1 Negatively Regulates DKK1 Expression to Promote Gastric Cancer Cell Proliferation Through Activation of Wnt Signaling Pathway

Gastric cancer (GC), characterized by uncontrolled growth, is a common malignant tumor of the digestive system. The Wnt signaling pathway plays an important role in the tumorigenesis and proliferation of GC. Many studies on this signaling pathway have focused on its intracellular regulatory mechanism, whereas little attention has been given to extracellular regulatory factors. Dickkopf-1 (Dkk1) is a secretory glycoprotein, and it can bind inhibit activation of the Wnt pathway. However, the regulation and mechanism of DKK1 in the proliferation of GC remain unclear. FOXC1 plays an important role in organ development and tumor growth, but its role in GC tumor growth remains unknown. In this study, we found that the FOXC1 is highly expressed in patients with GC and high expression of FOXC1 correlates to poor prognosis. In addition, we found that the Wnt signaling pathway in GC cells with high FOXC1 expression was strongly activated. FOXC1 negatively regulates DKK1 expression by binding to its promoter region, thereby promoting the activation of Wnt pathway. FOXC1 can also form a complex with unphosphorylated β-catenin protein in the cytoplasm and then dissociates from β-catenin in the nucleus, thereby promoting the entry of β-catenin into the nucleus and regulating expression of c-MYC, which promotes the proliferation of GC cells. Our study not only reveals the function and mechanism of FOXC1 in GC, but also provides a potential target for clinic GC treatment.

Optical Biosensors for the Detection of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Biomarkers: A Comprehensive Review

A comprehensive review of optical biosensors for the detection of biomarkers associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is presented here, including microRNAs (miRNAs), C-reactive protein (CRP), rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and histidine, which are biomarkers that enable RA detection and/or monitoring. An overview of the different optical biosensors (based on fluorescence, plasmon resonances, interferometry, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) among other optical techniques) used to detect these biomarkers is given, describing their performance and main characteristics (limit of detection (LOD) and dynamic range), as well as the connection between the respective biomarker and rheumatoid arthritis. It has been observed that the relationship between the corresponding biomarker and rheumatoid arthritis tends to be obviated most of the time when explaining the mechanism of the optical biosensor, which forces the researcher to look for further information about the biomarker. This review work attempts to establish a clear association between optical sensors and rheumatoid arthritis biomarkers as well as to be an easy-to-use tool for the researchers working in this field.

Therapeutic Effect of Exogenous Regulatory T Cells on Collagen-induced Arthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Regulatory T (Treg) cells have anti-inflammatory functions and heighten immune tolerance. The proportion and functions of Treg cells are perturbed in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), contributing to the excessive immune activation associated with this disease. We therefore hypothesized that supplementation with foreign Treg cells could be used to treat RA. To investigate the therapeutic effects of exogenous Treg cells on RA and its mechanism, we used human Treg cells to treat collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) in a rat model to observe whether exogenous Treg cells can treat the disease across species. Successful treatment would indicate that Treg cell transplantation in humans is more likely to affect RA. In the present study, human Treg cells were collected from healthy human peripheral blood and culture-expanded in vitro. Induced human Treg cells were injected into CIA rats via the tail vein. The rats' lymphocyte subtypes, cytokines, and Th1/Th2 ratios were measured using flow cytometry. In the rats, following injection of the human Treg cells, the severity of CIA was significantly reduced (P < 0.01), the proportion of endogenous Treg cells increased in the peripheral blood and spleen (P = 0.007 and P < 0.01, respectively), and the proportion of B cells decreased (P = 0.031). The IL-5 level, IL-6 level, and Th1/Th2 ratio in the peripheral blood were decreased (P = 0.013, 0.009, and 0.012, respectively). The culture-expanded human Treg cells were also cultured with synovial fibroblast cells from RA patients (RASFs). After coculture with Treg cells, RASFs showed reduced proliferation (P < 0.01) and increased apoptosis (P = 0.037). These results suggest that exogenous and induced Treg cells can produce a therapeutic effect in RA and CIA by increasing endogenous Treg cells and RASF apoptosis and reducing B cells, the Th1/Th2 ratio, and secretion levels of IL-5 and IL-6. Treg cell transplantation could serve as a therapy for RA that does not cause immune rejection.