Evaluation of angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), angiotensin II (Ang II), miR-141-3p, and miR-421 levels in SARS-CoV-2 patients: a case-control study

BACKGROUND

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a highly contagious virus that uses angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), a pivotal member of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), as its cell-entry receptor. Another member of the RAS, angiotensin II (Ang II), is the major biologically active component in this system. There is growing evidence suggesting that serum miRNAs could serve as prognostic biomarkers for SARS-CoV-2 infection and regulate ACE2 expression. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the changes in the serum levels of sACE2 and Ang II, as well as the expression level of miR-141-3p and miR-421 in SARS-CoV-2 positive and negative subjects.

METHODS

In the present study, the serum levels of sACE2 and Ang II were measured in 94 SARS-CoV-2 positive patients and 94 SARS-CoV-2 negative subjects with some symptoms similar to those of SARS-CoV-2 positive patients using the ELISA method. In addition, the expression level of miR-141-3p and miR-421 as ACE2 regulators and biomarkers was evaluated using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) method.

RESULTS

The mean serum sACE2 concentration in the SARS-CoV-2-positive group was 3.268 ± 0.410 ng/ml, whereas in the SARS-CoV-2 negative group, it was 3.564 ± 0.437 ng/ml. Additionally, the mean serum Ang II level in the SARS-CoV-2 positive and negative groups were 60.67 ± 6.192 ng/L and 67.97 ± 6.837 ng/L, respectively. However, there was no significant difference in the serum levels of sACE2 (P value: 0.516) and Ang II (P value: 0.134) between the SARS-CoV-2 positive and negative groups. Meanwhile, our findings indicated that the expression levels of miR-141-3p and miR-421 in SARS-CoV-2 positive group were significantly lower and higher than SARS-CoV-2 negative group, respectively (P value < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, the results of this study showed that the serum levels of sACE2 and Ang II in SARS-CoV-2 positive and negative subjects were not significantly different, but the expression levels of miR-141-3p and miR-421 were altered in SARS-CoV-2 positive patients which need more investigation to be used as biomarkers for COVID-19 diagnosis.

Regulation of overexpression lncRNA ATP2B1-AS1 on lung adenocarcinoma progression

BACKGROUND

LncRNA ATP2B1-AS1 (ATP2B1-AS1) is involved in the occurrence and development of various diseases, while the relationship between lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and ATP2B1-AS1 is unclear. This study was to investigate the expression of ATP2B1-AS1 in LUAD and its influence on survival and prognosis of patients.

METHODS

LUAD tissue samples from patients participating in this study were collected, and the expression levels of ATP2B1-AS1 and miR-141-3p in LUAD sampleswere detected by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The effect of ATP2B1-AS1 on the growth of A549 cells was investigated through cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) and transwell experiments. Besides, the prognostic value of ATP2B1-AS1 in LUAD was assessed via Kaplan-Meier curve and multivariate Cox regression.

RESULTS

ATP2B1-AS1 was downregulated in LUAD tissues and cells, whereas miR-141-3p was upregulated. After pcDNA3.1-ATP2B1-AS1 was transfected into A549 cells, the proliferation ability of A549 cells was decreased, and the migration level and invasion of A549 cells were also inhibited. High expression of ATP2B1-AS1 sponge miR-141-3p exerted prognostic value.

CONCLUSIONS

ATP2B1-AS1 sponge miR-141-3p alleviated the progression of LUAD, and ATP2B1-AS1 may be deemed as a prognostic marker for LUAD.

MiR-141-3p-Functionalized Exosomes Loaded in Dissolvable Microneedle Arrays for Hypertrophic Scar Treatment

Hypertrophic scar (HS) is a common fibroproliferative disease caused by abnormal wound healing after deep skin injury. However, the existing approaches have unsatisfactory therapeutic effects, which promote the exploration of newer and more effective strategies. MiRNA-modified functional exosomes delivered by dissolvable microneedle arrays (DMNAs) are expected to provide new hope for HS treatment. In this study, a miRNA, miR-141-3p, which is downregulated in skin scar tissues and in hypertrophic scar fibroblasts (HSFs), is identified. MiR-141-3p mimics inhibit the proliferation, migration, and myofibroblast transdifferentiation of HSFs in vitro by targeting TGF-β2 to suppress the TGF-β2/Smad pathway. Subsequently, the engineered exosomes encapsulating miR-141-3p (miR-141-3pOE -Exos) are isolated from adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells transfected with Lv-miR-141-3p. MiR-141-3pOE -Exos show the same inhibitive effects as miR-141-3p mimics on the pathological behaviors of HSFs in vitro. The DMNAs for sustained release of miR-141-3pOE -Exos are further fabricated in vivo. MiR-141OE -Exos@DMNAs effectively decrease the thickness of HS and improve fibroblast distribution and collagen fiber arrangement, and downregulate the expression of α-SMA, COL-1, FN, TGF-β2, and p-Smad2/3 in the HS tissue. Overall, a promising, effective, and convenient exosome@DMNA-based miRNA delivery strategy for HS treatment is provided.

miR-141-3p Enhanced Radiosensitivity of CRC Cells

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is recognized as one of the frequently diagnosed malignancies, and numerous microRNAs (miRs) are identified to be active in CRC.

OBJECTIVE

This work aimed to clarify the effect of miR-141-3p on the radiosensitivity of CRC cells.

METHODS

Firstly, CRC cell lines were cultured and applied to construct radiation-resistant CRC cells via X-ray treatment. The expression levels of miR-141-3p and long non-coding RNA DLX6 antisense RNA 1 (lncRNA DLX6-AS1) in CRC cells were measured using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. After transfection with miR-141-3p mimics and 24 h treatment with 6- MV X-ray (0, 2, 4, 6 Gy), the survival fraction (SF) and the colony formation ability of CRC cells were determined using the cell counting kit-8 and colony formation methods. The interactions between miR-141-3p and DLX6-AS1 were analyzed using the dual-luciferase assay. The impact of miR-141-3p on DLX6-AS1 stability was detected after adding actinomycin-D. The role of DLX6- AS1 in the radiosensitivity of CRC cells was explored by transfecting oe-DLX6-AS1 into radiation- resistant CRC cells overexpressing miR-141-3p.

RESULTS

The relative expression levels of miR-141-3p were downregulated in CRC cells and further declined in radiation-resistant cells. Upregulation of miR-141-3p relative expression reduced SF and the colony formation ability while amplifying the radiosensitivity of radiation-resistant CRC cells. miR-141-3p directly bound to DLX6-AS1 to reduce DLX6-AS1 stability, and therefore downregulated DLX6-AS1 expression. DLX6-AS1 overexpression counteracted the role of miR- 141-3p overexpression in amplifying the radiosensitivity of radiation-resistant CRC cells.

CONCLUSION

miR-141-3p binding to DLX6-AS1 significantly decreased DLX6-AS1 stability and expression, promoting the radiosensitivity of CRC cells.

miR-141-3p alleviates ulcerative colitis by targeting SUGT1 to inhibit colonic epithelial cell pyroptosis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic and recurrent inflammatory disease of the colon that result in the destruction and inflammation of the colonic mucosa. Current research has established a strong correlation between pyroptosis of colonic epithelial cells and the onset and progression of UC. In addition, miRNAs have been implicated in the development and progression of UC and pyroptosis. This aimed of this study was to identify specific miRNAs that could inhibit pyroptosis in colon epithelial cells and alleviate UC. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to induce inflammation in FHC normal colonic epithelial cells to construct an enteritis cell model and downregulated expression levels of miRNAs were detected in inflammatory bowel disease mucosal tissue model. Pyroptosis indicators were detected using Cell Counting Kit-8, flow cytometry, ELISA, qPCR, western blot, and immunofluorescence, and miRNA target genes were predicted by miRDB, TargetScan, pyroptosis pathway from KEGG, and double luciferase assay was used for verification. The effect of miR-141-3p on colitis was observed in the mouse DSS colitis model. The results showed that miR-141-3p was the most significantly downregulated miRNA in LPS-induced FHC cells, and promoted the proliferation of LPS-induced FHC cells and suppressed their apoptosis. In addition, miR-141-3p decreased the expression of pyroptosis-related proteins such as NLRP3, caspase-1, N-GSDMD, and the other proteins, as well as the release of IL-18 and IL-1β inflammatory factors. Conversely, the miR-141-3p inhibitor promoted LPS-induced FHC pyroptosis. Dual luciferase experiments confirmed that miR-141-3p could target the HSP90 molecular chaperone SUGT1. Further experiments demonstrated that SUGT1 overexpression could restore the inhibitory effect of miR-141-3p on pyroptosis, while SUGT1 knockdown could alleviate the promotion of pyroptosis induced by miR-141-3p inhibitor. Furthermore, miR-141-3p alleviated the inflammatory phenotype of mouse colonic mucosa in the mouse DSS colitis model. Therefore, miR-141-3p inhibits LPS-induced pyroptosis of colonic epithelial cells by targeting SUGT1. miR-141-3p could also alleviate DSS-induced colitis in mice, suggesting that miR-141-3p may become a nucleic acid drug for the treatment of UC.

miR-141-3p Regulates the Proliferation and Apoptosis of Endometrial-Myometrial Interface Smooth Muscle Cells in Adenomyosis Via JAK2/STAT3 Pathway

Adenomyosis (ADS) is a common benign gynecological disease. Abnormal proliferation at the endometrial-myometrial interface (EMI) plays a crucial role in the occurrence and progression of ADS. miR-141-3p is associated with cell proliferation and apoptosis. However, the specific mechanism of miR-141-3p in the etiology of ADS is still unknown. In this study, we explored the effects of miR-141-3p on the proliferation and apoptosis of ADS EMI smooth muscle cells (SMCs). We collected EMI tissues for the primary culture of SMCs from 25 patients diagnosed with ADS and 20 without ADS. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot were used to measure the mRNA and protein expression levels of miR-141-3p, JAK2, STAT3, phospho-JAK2, and phospho-STAT3 in ADS EMI SMCs. The cell counting kit 8 assay and flow cytometry analysis were used to evaluate the proliferation and apoptosis of EMI SMCs. The miR-141-3p mimic/inhibitor was used to increase or decrease the expression level of miR-141-3p. We added WP1066 to block the phosphorylation of JAK2/STAT3 pathway components. The miR-141-3p levels were decreased, while JAK2 and STAT3 levels were increased in ADS EMI SMCs. miR-141-3p overexpression significantly inhibited the proliferation and enhanced the apoptosis of EMI SMCs, whereas a decrease in miR-141-3p expression level was connected to the opposite results. Meanwhile, inactivated JAK2/STAT3 pathway decreased proliferation and enhanced apoptosis of EMI SMCs after WP1066 treatment. Furthermore, rescue experiments confirmed that the JAK2/STAT3 pathway was the downstream pathway of miR-141-3p and reduced the effect of miR-141-3p on the proliferation and apoptosis of EMI SMCs. These results demonstrate that miR-141-3p regulates the proliferation and apoptosis of ADS EMI SMCs by modulating the JAK2/STAT3 pathway.

The bioceramic sealer iRoot SP promotes osteogenic differentiation of human stem cells from apical papilla via miR-141-3p/SPAG9/MAPK signalling pathway

AIM

The premixed bioceramic sealer iRoot SP that is widely used clinically has been reported to kill bacterial biofilms and promote osteogenic differentiation of human stem cells from the apical papilla (hSCAPs). Although miR-141-3p has been substantiated to be involved in the osteogenic process, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of miR-141-3p in osteogenic differentiation and underlying mechanisms of iRoot SP-treated hSCAPs.

METHODOLOGY

hSCAPs were extracted from tissue blocks with enzyme digestion and identified by using immunofluorescence, flow cytometry and alizarin red staining. The mRNA expression level of miR-141-3p in hSCPAs after culture with iRoot SP was examined by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) assay. SPAG9 was identified as a downstream target gene of miR-141-3p by dual-luciferase report assay. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining and activity detection, alizarin red staining, calcium concentration assay, qRT-PCR and western blot were used to estimate osteogenic differentiation ability and involved protein expression levels of the osteogenic makers and signalling pathway-related factors in iRoot SP-treated hSCAPs. Data were analysed by one-way anova and post hoc Tukey's test to determine any statistical differences between the experimental groups and the control group. p < .05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Expression of miR-141-3p was reduced in iRoot SP-treated hSCAPs with the increased exposure time up to 7 days, and the western blot and qRT-PCR results revealed that the osteogenic markers osteocalcin (OCN), osterix (OSX), runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) and dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) were inversely correlated with miR-141-3p. The negative regulatory relationship between miR-141-3p and SPAG9/ mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) signalling axis was validated in this in vitro experiments.

CONCLUSIONS

The bioceramic sealer iRoot SP promoted osteogenic differentiation of hSCAPs by inhibiting miR-141-3p following down-regulated SPAG9 expression, and activated MAPK pathway. These findings proposed a novel therapeutic impact of bioceramic sealer iRoot SP inducing bone regeneration in refractory periapical periodontitis.

A novel mechanism regulating pyroptosis-induced fibrosis in endometriosis via lnc-MALAT1/miR-141-3p/NLRP3 pathway†

Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease distinguished by ectopic endometrium and fibrosis. NLRP3 inflammasome and pyroptosis are present in endometriosis. Aberrant increase of Long noncoding (Lnc)-metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) plays a vital role in endometriosis. However, the relationship between lnc-MALAT1, pyroptosis, and fibrosis is not completely known. In the present study, we found that the pyroptosis levels in ectopic endometrium of patients with endometriosis were significantly increased, consistent with fibrosis levels. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) + ATP could induce pyroptosis of primary endometrial stromal cells (ESCs), thereby releasing interleukin (IL)-1β and stimulating transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1-mediated fibrosis. NLRP3 inhibitor MCC950 had the same effect as TGF-β1 inhibitor SB-431542 in suppressing the fibrosis-inducing effect of LPS + ATP in vivo and in vitro. The abnormal increase of lnc-MALAT1 in ectopic endometrium was connected with NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis and fibrosis. Leveraging bioinformatic prediction and luciferase assays combined with western blotting and quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, we validated that lnc-MALAT1 sponges miR-141-3p to promote NLRP3 expression. Silencing lnc-MALAT1 in HESCs ameliorated NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis and IL-1β release, thereby relieving TGF-β1-mediated fibrosis. Consequently, our findings suggest that lnc-MALAT1 is critical for NLRP3-induced pyroptosis and fibrosis in endometriosis through sponging miR-141-3p, which may indicate a new therapeutic target of endometriosis treatment.

[Retracted] miR‑141‑3p suppresses proliferation and promotes apoptosis by targeting GLI2 in osteosarcoma cells

Following the publication of the above article, a concerned reader drew to the Editor's attention that, in the above paper, they had identified multiple instances of overlapping data panels comparing the TUNEL assay data shown in Fig. 2C and D on p. 750 with that shown in Fig. 4C on p. 752, suggesting that data purportedly showing results obtained under different experimental conditions had been derived from a smaller number of original sources. Upon informing the authors about this matter, they consulted their original data and requested a corrigendum to take account of the overlapping data in Figs. 2 and 4; however, given the number of instances of overlapping data panels that were identified comparing these two figures, the Editor of Oncology Reports has decided that this article should be retracted from the publication owing to a lack of overall confidence in the presented data. Upon informing the authors of this decision, they did not accepted the decision to retract this article. The Editor apologizes to the readership for any inconvenience resulting from the retraction of this article. [Oncology Reports 39: 747‑754, 2018; DOI: 10.3892/or.2017.6150].

miR-141-3p accelerates ovarian cancer progression and promotes M2-like macrophage polarization by targeting the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway

The miR-141-3p has been reported to participate in regulating autophagy and tumor-stroma interactions in ovarian cancer (OC). We aim to investigate whether miR-141-3p accelerates the progression of OC and its effect on macrophage 2 polarization by targeting the Kelch-like ECH-associated protein1-Nuclear factor E2-related factor2 (Keap1-Nrf2) pathway. SKOV3 and A2780 cells were transfected with miR-141-3p inhibitor and negative control to confirm the regulation of miR-141-3p on OC development. Moreover, the growth of tumors in xenograft nude mice treated by cells transfected with miR-141-3p inhibitor was established to further testify the role of miR-141-3p in OC. The expression of miR-141-3p was higher in OC tissue compared with non-cancerous tissue. Downregulation of miR-141-3p inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of ovarian cells. Furthermore, miR-141-3p inhibition also suppressed M2-like macrophage polarization and in vivo OC progression. Inhibition of miR-141-3p significantly enhanced the expression of Keap1, the target gene of miR-141-3p, and thus downregulated Nrf2, while activation of Nrf2 reversed the reduction in M2 polarization by miR-141-3p inhibitor. Collectively, miR-141-3p contributes to tumor progression, migration, and M2 polarization of OC by activating the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway. Inhibition of miR-141-3p attenuates the malignant biological behavior of ovarian cells by inactivating the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway.

Circular RNA circDLG1 contributes to HCC progression by regulating the miR-141-3p/WTAP axis

This study aims to explore novel and reliable biomarkers for predicting hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) prognosis. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) were determined by analysis of human circRNA arrays and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase reactions. To test for an interaction between circDLG1, we used luciferase reporter assays, RNA immunoprecipitation, and fluorescence in situ hybridization assays that were employed to test the interaction between circDLG1, miR-141-3p, and WTAP. q-RT-PCR and western blot were used to evaluate the target regulation of miR-141-3p and WTAP. shRNA-mediated knockdown of circDLG1, proliferation, migration, and invasion experiment of metastasis were used to evaluate the function of circDLG. CircDLG1 rather than lining DLG1 was upregulated in HCC tissues, from HCC patients as well as HCC cell lines compared to normal controls. circDLG1 high expression in HCC patients was correlated with shorter overall survival. Knockdown of circDLG1 and miR-141-3p mimic could inhibit the tumorigenesis of HCC cells in vivo and in vitro. Importantly, we demonstrated that circDLG1 could act as a sponge of miR-141-3p to regulate the expression of WTAP, and further suppress the tumorigenesis of HCC cells. Our study reveals that circDLG1 can serve as a novel potential circulating biomarker for the detection of HCC. circDLG1 participates in the progression of HCC cells by sponging miR-141-3p with WTAP, providing new insight into the treatment of HCC.

Ursolic acid ameliorates traumatic brain injury in mice by regulating microRNA-141-mediated PDCD4/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Neuronal apoptosis and inflammation are the key pathogenic features of secondary brain injury, which results in the neurological impairment that traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients experience. Ursolic Acid (UA) has been shown to have neuroprotective properties against brain damage, however, detailed mechanisms have not been fully disclosed. Research on brain-related microRNAs (miRNAs) has opened up new possibilities for the neuroprotective treatment of UA by manipulating miRNAs. The present study was designed to investigate the impact of UA on neuronal apoptosis and the inflammatory response in TBI mice.

METHODS

The mice's neurologic condition was assessed using the modified neurological severity score (mNSS) and the learning and memory abilities were assessed using the Morris water maze (MWM). Cell apoptosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation were utilized to examine the impact of UA on neuronal pathological damage. miR-141-3p was selected to evaluate whether UA influences miRNAs in a way that has neuroprotective benefits.

RESULTS

The results showed that UA markedly decreased brain edema and neuronal mortality through oxidative stress and neuroinflammation in TBI mice. Using data from the GEO database, we found that miR-141-3p was considerably downregulated in TBI mice and that this downregulation was reversed by UA treatment. Further studies have shown that UA regulates miR-141-3p expression to exhibit its neuroprotective effect in mouse models and cell injury models. Then, miR-141-3p was discovered to directly target PDCD4 in TBI mice and neurons, a well-known PI3K/AKT pathway regulator in the neurons. Most importantly, the upregulation of phosphorylated (p)-AKT and p-PI3K provided the most compelling evidence that UA reactivated the PI3K/AKT pathway in the TBI mouse model, which was through regulating miR-141-3p.

CONCLUSION

Our findings support the notion that UA can improve TBI by modulating miR-141 mediated PDCD4/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

ERVWE1 Reduces Hippocampal Neuron Density and Impairs Dendritic Spine Morphology through Inhibiting Wnt/JNK Non-Canonical Pathway via miR-141-3p in Schizophrenia

Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) are remnants of ancestral germline infections by exogenous retroviruses. Human endogenous retroviruses W family envelope gene (HERV-W env, also called ERVWE1), located on chromosome 7q21-22, encodes an envelope glycoprotein from the HERV-W family. Mounting evidence suggests that aberrant expression of ERVWE1 involves the etiology of schizophrenia. Moreover, the genetic and morphological studies indicate that dendritic spine deficits may contribute to the onset of schizophrenia. Here, we reported that ERVWE1 changed the density and morphology of the dendritic spine through inhibiting Wingless-type (Wnt)/c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK) non-canonical pathway via miR-141-3p in schizophrenia. In this paper, we found elevated levels of miR-141-3p and a significant positive correlation with ERVWE1 in schizophrenia. Moreover, serum Wnt5a and actin-related protein 2 (Arp2) levels decreased and demonstrated a significant negative correlation with ERVWE1 in schizophrenia. In vitro experiments disclosed that ERVWE1 up-regulated miR-141-3p expression by interacting with transcription factor (TF) Yin Yang 1 (YY1). YY1 modulated miR-141-3p expression by binding to its promoter. The luciferase assay revealed that YY1 enhanced the promoter activity of miR-141-3p. Using the miRNA target prediction databases and luciferase reporter assays, we demonstrated that miR-141-3p targeted Wnt5a at its 3' untranslated region (3' UTR). Furthermore, ERVWE1 suppressed the expression of Arp2 through non-canonical pathway, Wnt5a/JNK signaling pathway. In addition, ERVWE1 inhibited Wnt5a/JNK/Arp2 signal pathway through miR-141-3p. Finally, functional assays showed that ERVWE1 induced the abnormalities in hippocampal neuron morphology and spine density through inhibiting Wnt/JNK non-canonical pathway via miR-141-3p in schizophrenia. Our findings indicated that miR-141-3p, Wnt5a, and Arp2 might be potential clinical blood-based biomarkers or therapeutic targets for schizophrenia. Our work also provided new insight into the role of ERVWE1 in schizophrenia pathogenesis.

miR-141-3p Promotes the Cisplatin Sensitivity of Osteosarcoma Cell through Targeting the Glutaminase [GLS]-Mediated Glutamine Metabolism

AIMS

This study aimed to evaluate the roles and molecular targets of miRNA-141-3p in the cisplatin sensitivity of osteosarcoma.

BACKGROUND

Osteosarcoma is one of the most common-type bone tumors, occurring mainly in children and adolescents. Cancer cells display dysregulated cellular metabolism, such as the abnormally elevated glutamine metabolism.

OBJECTIVE

Non-coding RNA miRNA-141-3p has been reported to act as a tumor suppressor in osteosarcoma. Currently, the precise molecular mechanisms for the miR- 141-3p-mediated chemosensitivity through regulating glutamine metabolism remain unclear.

METHODS

We collected thirty paired OS tumors and their adjacent normal tissues. The osteosarcoma cell lines [Saos-2] and normal osteoblast cells, hFOB1.19, were used for in vitro experiments. RT-qPCR and Western blot were applied for gene expression detections. Targets of miR-141-3p were predicted from starBase. The MTT and flow cytometric assays were performed to determine cell growth and apoptosis rates. The cellular glutamine metabolism was monitored by glutamine uptake assay and the glutaminase [GLS] activity assay.

RESULTS

We reported that miR-141-3p were significantly downregulated in osteosarcoma tissues and cells. Overexpression of miR-141-3p suppressed OS cell growth and sensitized OS cells to cisplatin. In addition, glutamine metabolism was significantly increased in osteosarcoma. We characterized that GLS played oncogenic roles in osteosarcoma and validated GLS was a direct target of miR-141-3p in OS cells. Rescue experiments consistently demonstrated that miR-141-3p-promoted cisplatin sensitivity was achieved by targeting GLS directly.

CONCLUSION

Overall, our findings revealed new molecular mechanisms of the miR-141- 3p-modulated cisplatin sensitization through targeting the GLS-glutamine metabolism pathway. This study will contribute to developing new therapeutic approaches for the treatments of chemoresistant osteosarcoma.

Circ_0044411 silencing protects infantile pneumonia from lipopolysaccharide-induced cell injury by sponging miR-141-3p to inhibit CCL16 expression

BACKGROUND

Circular RNA (circRNA) has been found to play an important role in the progression of many diseases, including infantile pneumonia. However, the role of circ_0044411 in infantile pneumonia progression is still unclear.

METHODS

MRC-5 cells were incubated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for 12 h to establish the in vitro cellular model for infantile pneumonia. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to detect the levels of circ_0044411, miR-141-3p (micoRNA-141-3p) and CCL16 (CC motif chemokine ligand 16). Cell viability and proliferation was assessed by 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-y1)-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) assay. The levels of inflammatory factors IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. Cell apoptosis and caspase-3 activity were detected by flow cytometry analysis and caspase-3 activity assay kit. The target interaction was confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter assay, RNA immunoprecipitation assay and RNA pull-down assay.

RESULTS

Circ_0044411 was highly repressed in the serum of infantile pneumonia patients and LPS-induced MRC-5 cells. Circ_0044411 could promote the cell viability and proliferation, inhibit inflammatory response and apoptosis in LPS-induced MRC-5 cells. Circ_0044411 could serve as a sponge of miR-141-3p, and miR-141-3p could reverse the function of circ_0044411 on LPS-induced MRC-5 cell injury. In addition, miR-141-3p could target CCL16, and miR-141-3p could protect MRC-5 cells from LPS-induced cell injury by targeting CCL16. Furthermore, circ_0044411 sponged miR-141-3p to positively regulate CCL16 expression.

CONCLUSION

Circ_0044411 knockdown promoted cell viability and proliferation, inhibited inflammatory response and apoptosis by regulating miR-141-3p/CCL16 axis, indicating that circ_0044411 might be a potential therapeutic target for IP.

MiR-141-3p promotes malignant progression in prostate cancer through AlkB homolog 5-mediated m6A modification of protein arginine methyltransferase 6

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death in males worldwide and exploring more reliable biomarkers for PCa is essential for the diagnosis and therapeutics for the disease. Although the functions of miR-141-3p and AlkB homolog 5 (ALKBH5) were identified in some cancers, whether they were involved in the development of PCa remains unclear. In this study, reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction unveiled that the expression of ALKBH5 was reduced in PCa tissues and was negatively correlated with miR-141-3p. ALKBH5 attenuated the malignant development of PCa through suppressing the growth, migration, invasion, and sphere formation abilities of PCa cells. In addition, the luciferase activity assay identified that ALKBH5 was corroborated as a downstream target of miR-141-3p. Moreover, miR-141-3p expression was boosted in PCa tissues and cells and inhibition of miR-141-3p suppressed the tumor growth of PCa in vivo. Moreover, ALKBH5 was confirmed to suppress protein arginine methyltransferase 6 (PRMT6) expression through N6-methyladenosine (m⁶A) modification. We further identified that miR-141-3p-modulated PRMT6 level through mediating ALKBH5. Furthermore, PRMT6 level was positively correlated with miR-141-3p level and negatively associated with ALKBH5 level. Finally, rescue assays also uncovered that miR-141-3p aggravated PCa development by regulating PRMT6. In conclusion, miR-141-3p accelerated the malignant progression of PCa through ALKBH5-mediated m6A modification of PRMT6, which might offer a novel insight into the role of miR-141-3p and ALKBH5 in the treatments of PCa patients.

miR-141-3p affects β-catenin signaling and apoptosis by targeting Ubtd2 in rats with anorectal malformations

Anorectal malformations (ARMs) are the most common gastrointestinal malformations. miR-141-3p was obtained from whole-transcriptome sequencing, and Ub domain-containing protein 2 (Ubtd2) was predicted as the target gene. An ARM rat model was induced using ethylenethiourea. Fluorescence in situ hybridization and immunofluorescence were used to detect the spatiotemporal expression of miR-141-3p and Ubtd2, respectively. A dual-luciferase reporter assay confirmed their targeting relationship, and cell proliferation and apoptosis were investigated after transfection in the intestinal epithelium (IEC-6). Additionally, western blotting and co-immunoprecipitation were used to examine the protein levels and the endogenous binding relationship. miR-141-3p was downregulated in the ARM group, whereas Ubtd2 increased and colocalized with TUNEL-positive cells. After miR-141-3p inhibition, protein expression of USP5 and β-catenin was affected via Ubtd2, and USP5 could bind to both Ubtd2 and β-catenin. Flow cytometry analysis and caspase 3/7 staining demonstrated that downregulated miR-141-3p promoted cell apoptosis through Ubtd2. In summary, targeting Ubtd2 decreased in miR-141-3p and promoted apoptosis of intestinal epithelium and regulated β-catenin expression. This may cause aberrant apoptosis during hindgut development and mediate the imbalance of β-catenin signaling in the cloaca, further affecting the occurrence of ARMs.

Circ_0061140 Facilitates Adenomyosis Progression by Upregulating LIN28B in vitro

OBJECTIVES

The aim of our study was to explore the role of circular RNA_0061140 (circ_0061140) in adenomyosis progression and its associated mechanism.

DESIGN

We first analyzed the expression pattern of circ_0061140 in endometrial tissues of adenomyosis patients (n = 27) and uterine fibroid patients (n = 15). Loss-of-function experiments were conducted to analyze the biological roles of circ_0061140 in regulating the viability, apoptosis, proliferation, migration, and invasion of endometrial epithelial cells. The downstream microRNA (miRNA)/messenger RNA (mRNA) axis of circ_0061140 was predicted by bioinformatics tool Starbase, and its working mechanism was verified by rescue experiments.

METHODS

Cell viability, apoptosis, proliferation, invasion, and migration were assessed by cell counting kit-8 assay, flow cytometry analysis, 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine assay, transwell assay, and scratch test. The binding relationship between miR-141-3p and circ_0061140 or lin-28 homolog B (LIN28B) was verified by dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay.

RESULTS

Circ_0061140 expression was upregulated in adenomyosis patients. Circ_0061140 knockdown suppressed the viability, proliferation, invasion, and migration and triggered the apoptosis of endometrial epithelial cells. Circ_0061140 served as a miRNA sponge for miR-141-3p, and miR-141-3p silencing partly reversed circ_0061140 knockdown-induced effects in endometrial epithelial cells. miR-141-3p directly interacted with LIN28B mRNA. LIN28B overexpression partly diminished miR-141-3p overexpression-mediated influences in endometrial epithelial cells. Circ_0061140 knockdown downregulated LIN28B expression by elevating miR-141-3p level in endometrial epithelial cells.

LIMITATIONS

The functional verification of circ_0061140/miR-141-3p/LIN28B axis was merely conducted in vitro.

CONCLUSION

Circ_0061140 contributed to adenomyosis progression by binding to miR-141-3p to induce LIN28B expression in vitro.

Mechanism of miRNA-141-3p in Calcium Oxalate-Induced Renal Tubular Epithelial Cell Injury via NLRP3-Mediated Pyroptosis

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Renal calculi represent a prevalent disorder associated with mineral deposition in renal calyces and the pelvis. Aberrant microRNA (miRNA) expression is implicated in renal injury. This study investigated the mechanism of miR-141-3p in calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystal-induced renal tubular epithelial cell (RTEC) injury.

METHODS

Human RTECs HK-2 cells were treated with CaOx crystals to induce RTEC injury. Cell viability was evaluated using Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, and apoptosis was measured using flow cytometry. The contents of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-18 were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. The expressions of NLRP3, cleaved caspase-1, and GSDMD-N were detected using Western blot. miR-141-3p and NLRP3 expressions were determined using reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The binding of miR-141-3p and NLRP3 was validated using a dual-luciferase assay. The role of NLRP3 in the protection of miR-141-3p on RTEC injury was verified using functional rescue experiments.

RESULTS

CaOx crystals induced RTEC injury, manifested as attenuated cell viability, enhanced apoptosis, elevated intracellular LDH and MDA levels, and decreased SOD level. Pyroptosis of RTECs was enhanced by CaOx crystal induction, evidenced by elevated expressions of cleaved caspase-1, GSDMD-N, IL-1β, and IL-18. miR-141-3p expression was reduced in CaOx crystal-induced RTECs. miR-141-3p overexpression alleviated CaOx crystal-induced RTEC injury and suppressed pyroptosis of RTECs. miR-141-3p bound to NLRP3 and thereby repressed NLRP3 expression. NLRP3 overexpression reversed the protective effect of miR-141-3p overexpression on RTECs.

CONCLUSION

miR-141-3p repressed NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis by suppressing NLRP3 expression, thus protecting CaOx crystal-induced RTEC injury.

miR-141-3p protects against blood-brain barrier disruption and brain injury after intracerebral hemorrhage by targeting ZEB2

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) participate in the diagnosis and treatment of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). miR-141-3p has been widely reported to regulate neurological disorders and cerebropathy. However, the specific role of miR-141-3p in ICH has not yet been revealed. The aim of this study was exploration of the biological functions and mechanism of miR-141-3p in ICH by establishing a collagenase-induced ICH mouse model. After ICH induction, miR-141-3p mimics or miR-NC were administered into the right striatum of the model mice followed by the performance of neurological tests. After euthanasia of the mice, the injury volume, brain water content, and injury to the blood-brain barrier (BBB) were evaluated. Evans blue (EB) was used to stain the brain slices, and EB extravasation was detected to evaluate the injury to BBB. miR-141-3p expression in perihematomal edema and hematoma areas after ICH was assessed by RT-qPCR. The levels of tight junction proteins in brain tissues and human brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) were evaluated by western blotting. The FITC-dextran 20 method was used to assess BMEC permeability. The binding between miR-141-3p and zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox 2 (ZEB2) was verified with a luciferase reporter assay. In this study, miR-141-3p overexpression alleviated ICH-induced brain injury and protected BBB integrity in vivo. ZEB2 was a target gene of miR-141-3p. ZEB2 overexpression promoted BBB disruption, and miR-141-3p overexpression attenuated the promoting effect exerted by ZEB2. Overall, miR-141-3p protects against BBB disruption and attenuates brain injuries induced by ICH by targeting ZEB2.

SNHG10/miR-141-3p/WTAP axis promotes osteosarcoma proliferation and migration

LncRNAs have been suggested to participate in the growth and metastasis of cancer through a variety of molecular mechanisms. Recently, SNHG10, a newly discovered lncRNA, is reported to play a role of an oncogene in osteosarcoma (OS) genesis. Nonetheless, the mechanism underlying OS remains unclear. The present work found that SNHG10 expression increased within OS cells and tissues, while suppressing its expression decreased OS cell proliferation, migration, invasion, but increased their apoptosis. As for the mechanism, we confirmed that SNHG10 could bind to miR-141-3p, while the latter could bind to WTAP. SNHG10 upregulated WTAP through decreasing miR-141-3p expression. More importantly, SNHG10 deletion remarkably reduced proliferation, migration, and invasion of cells, but accelerated their apoptosis. However, when cells were subjected to miR-141-3p inhibitor cotransfection or overexpressed WTAP, these effects were partially recovered. In summary, this study suggested that the expression of SNHG10 markedly elevated within OS, and the SNHG10/miR-141-3p/WTAP axis facilitated OS progression.

miR-141-3p promotes retinoblastoma progression via inhibiting sushi domain-containing protein 2

Retinoblastoma, often referred to as eye cancer, is a common primary pediatric intraocular malignancy. In this framework, micro ribose nucleic acids (miRNAs) play essential roles in retinoblastoma oncogenesis and development. However, the function and mechanism of the miR-141-3p/sushi domain-containing protein 2 (SUSD2) axis in retinoblastoma are unclear. To address these issues, miR-141-3p and SUSD2 expressions between the retinoblastoma patients and the normal control are identified by analyzing the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets. Moreover, bioinformatics analysis, a dual-luciferase reporter assay, functional loss, and gain together with rescue experiments are employed to explore the biological function and molecular mechanisms of the miR-141-3p/SUSD2 axis in retinoblastoma oncogenesis and development. Our data showed that SUSD2 levels are considerably decreased in retinoblastoma cells and tissues. SUSD2 overexpression inhibited viability, promoting apoptosis of retinoblastoma cells and inhibiting tube formation of primary human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in vitro. The bioinformatics analysis and dual-luciferase reporter tests showed that SUSD2 is directly regulated by miR-141-3p. The miR-141-3p inhibition suppressed retinoblastoma growth and angiogenesis, while miR-141-3p overexpression increased retinoblastoma growth and angiogenesis, which is partially reversed when SUSD2 is over-expressed both in vivo and in vitro. In conclusion, SUSD2 is a tumor-suppressor in retinoblastoma. miR-141-3p/SUSD2 axis played an essential role in regulating angiogenesis and retinoblastoma progression, serving as a new biomarker for management of retinoblastoma.

Long non-coding RNA FAM83A antisense RNA 1 (lncRNA FAM83A-AS1) targets microRNA-141-3p to regulate lung adenocarcinoma cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition progression

The current paper investigates how long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) FAM83A antisense RNA 1 (lncRNA FAM83A-AS1) affected the epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT), growth, invasion and migration of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) via targeting miRNA-141-3p. The GEPIA and ENCORI databases were used to analyze differences in lncRNA FAM83A-AS1 levels within LUAD samples. FAM83A-AS1 and miR-141-3p levels were assessed using qRT-PCR among 30 LUAD samples and surrounding normal tissues. In addition, we analyzed how FAM83A-AS1 affected proliferation, invasion, migration, and EMT processes of LUAD cells by targeting miR-141-3p through EdU, CCK-8 assay, scratch assay, transwell migration and invasion assay, immunofluorescence (IF) staining and WB assay. MicroRNAs targeting FAM83A-AS1 were screened using AnnoLnc2 and identified by RT-qPCR. Dual-luciferase assays were utilized to evaluate the connection between FAM83A-AS1 and miR-141-3p. FAM83A-AS1 expression was remarkably raised in lung cancer cells and tissue samples; however, miR-141-3p level markedly reduced relative to healthy samples. FAM83A-AS1 silencing suppressed EMT, growth, invasion and migration of LUAD cells. MiR-141-3p was the possible FAM83A-AS1 binding target negatively associated with FAM83A-AS1. The miR-141-3p inhibitor partly abolished the FAM83A-AS1 knockdown-induced inhibition on EMT, cell growth, invasion and migration in LUAD cells. In addition, miR-141-3p down-regulation abolished the inhibition of E-box-bound zinc finger protein 1 and 2 protein production following FAM83A-AS1 knockdown. According to our results, FAM83A-AS1/miR-141-3p axis plays an important role in LUAD occurrence and development. FAM83A-AS1 sponged miR-141-3p to down-regulate the level of the latter within LUAD and thereby encouraging LUAD development and suggesting a possible novel therapeutic approach for LUAD.

Mesenchymal stem cell-originated exosomal circDIDO1 suppresses hepatic stellate cell activation by miR-141-3p/PTEN/AKT pathway in human liver fibrosis

Liver fibrosis is a common pathologic stage of the development of liver failure. It has showed that exosomes loaded with therapeutic circRNAs can be manufactured in bulk by exosome secreted cells in vitro, thus enabling personalized treatment. This study aimed to investigate the role of exosome-based delivery of circDIDO1 in liver fibrosis. Levels of genes and proteins were examined by qRT-PCR and Western blot. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, and cell cycle were analyzed by using cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, EdU assay, and flow cytometry, respectively. The binding between circDIDO1 and miR-141-3p was confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter, RNA pull-down and RIP assays. Exosomes were isolated by ultracentrifugation, and qualified by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) and Western blot. CircDIDO1 overexpression or miR-141-3p inhibition suppressed the proliferation, reduced pro-fibrotic markers, and induced apoptosis as well as cell cycle arrest in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) by blocking PTEN/AKT pathway. Mechanistically, circDIDO1 acted as an endogenous sponge for miR-141-3p, further rescue experiments showed that circDIDO1 suppressed HSC activation by targeting miR-141-3p. Extracellular circDIDO1 could be incorporated into exosomes isolated from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and transmitted to HSCs to restrain HSC activation. Clinically, low levels of serum circDIDO1 in exosome were correlated with liver failure, and serum exosomal circDIDO1 had a well diagnostic value for liver fibrosis in liver failure patients. Transfer of circDIDO1 mediated by MSC-isolated exosomes suppressed HSC activation through the miR-141-3p/PTEN/AKT pathway, gaining a new insight into the prevention of liver fibrosis in liver failure patients.

MALAT1 promotes malignant pleural mesothelioma by sponging miR-141-3p

The aim of this study was to clarify the role of lncRNA metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) in proliferation, migration, and invasion of malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) cells. The quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to detect the expression of MALAT1 in MPM cell lines. The effects of MALAT1 and miR-141-3p on the proliferation, migration, and invasion of MPM cells were studied through a series of in vitro cellular experiments. The flow cytometry was utilized to detect the cell apoptosis. The dual‐luciferase reporter assay was employed to explore the binding relationship among MALAT1, miR-141-3p, and YES-associated protein 1 (YAP1). MALAT1 was overexpressed in MPM cell lines, while its knockdown significantly inhibited the cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, and increased the number of MPM cells in the G0/G1 phase. In addition, MALAT1 could directly bind to miR-141-3p and inhibit its expression. YAP1 has been identified as a downstream target of miR-141-3p, and its expression level was inhibited by miR-141-3p. MALAT1 can be used as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to regulate the YAP1-Hippo signaling pathway through miR-141-3p, promote the proliferation, migration, and invasion of MPM cells, and provide a new target for the therapy of MPM.

Is the regulation by miRNAs of NTPDase1 and ecto-5'-nucleotidase genes involved with the different profiles of breast cancer subtypes?

Breast cancer (BC) is a public health problem worldwide, causing suffering and premature death among women. As a heterogeneous disease, BC-specific diagnosis and treatment are challenging. Ectonucleotidases are related to tumor development and their expression may vary among BC. miRNAs may participate in epigenetic events and may regulate ectonucleotidases in BC. This study aimed to evaluate the expression of ectonucleotidases according to BC subtypes and to predict if there is post-transcriptional regulation of them by miRNAs. MCF 10A (non-tumorigenic), MCF7 (luminal BC), and MDA-MB-231 (triple-negative BC - TNBC) breast cell lines were used and ENTPD1 (the gene encoding for NTPDase1) and NT5E (the gene encoding for ecto-5'-nucleotidase) gene expression was determined. Interestingly, the expression of ENTPD1 was only observed in MCF7 and NT5E was lower in MCF7 compared to MDA-MB-231 cell line. ATP, ADP, and AMP hydrolysis were observed on the surface of all cell lines, being higher in MDA-MB-231. Like qPCR, the activity of AMP hydrolysis was also lower in the MCF7 cells, which may represent a striking feature of this BC subtype. In silico analyses confirmed that the miRNAs miR-101-3p, miR-141-3p, and miR-340-5p were higher expressed in MCF7 cells and targeted NT5E mRNA. Altogether, data suggest that the regulation of NT5E by miRNAs in MCF7 lineage may direct the molecular profile of luminal BC. Thus, we suggest that the roles of ecto-5'-nucleotidase and the aforementioned miRNAs must be unraveled in TNBC to be possibly defined as diagnostic and therapeutic targets.

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.

LncRNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 16 (SNHG16) silencing protects lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cell injury in human lung fibroblasts WI-38 through acting as miR-141-3p sponge

Long noncoding RNA (LncRNA) small nucleolar RNA host gene 16 (SNHG16) is correlated with cell injuries, including pneumonia. However, its role and mechanism remain vague in pneumonia. The interplay among genes was confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter assay, RNA immunoprecipitation, and RNA pull-down assay. SNHG16 and sushi domain containing 2 (SUSD2) were upregulated, and miRNA (miR)-141-3p was downregulated in the serum of acute pneumonia patients and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-challenged human lung fibroblasts WI-38. LPS induced apoptosis, autophagy, and inflammatory response in WI-38 cells, which was significantly attenuated by SNHG16 knockdown and/or miR-141-3p overexpression. Notably, both SNHG16 and SUSD2 were identified as target genes of miR-141-3p. Besides, the suppressive role of SNHG16 knockdown in LPS-induced in WI-38 cells was partially abolished by miR-141-3p silencing, and the similar inhibition of miR-141-3p overexpression was further blocked by SUSD2 restoration. In conclusion, knockdown of SNHG16 could alleviate LPS-induced apoptosis, autophagy, and inflammation in WI-38 cells partially though the SNHG16/miR-141-3p/SUSD2 pathway.

MiR-141-3p and miR-200a-3p are involved in Th17 cell differentiation by negatively regulating RARB expression

Among T helper (Th) lineages differentiated from naïve CD4⁺ T cells, interleukin (IL)-17-producing Th17 cells are highly correlated with the pathogenesis of autoimmune disorders. This study aimed to clarify the involvement of miR-141-3p and miR-200a-3p in Th17 cell differentiation as well as explore their potential target genes involved. For this purpose, human naïve CD4⁺ T cells were cultured under Th17 cell polarizing condition. The differentiation process was confirmed through measurement of IL-17 secretion using the ELISA method and assessment of Th17 cell-defining genes expression during the differentiation period. MiR-141-3p and miR-200a-3p downstream genes were identified via consensus and integration in silico approach and their expression pattern and alterations were evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR. Finally, direct interaction between both microRNAs (miRNAs) and their common predicted target sequences was approved by dual-luciferase reporter assay. Highly increased IL-17 secretion and Th17 lineage-specific genes expression confirmed Th17 cell differentiation. Our results have demonstrated that miR-141-3p and miR-200a-3p are Th17 cell-associated miRNAs and their expression level is upregulated significantly during Th17 cell induction. We have also found that retinoic acid receptor beta (RARB) gene, whose product has been reported as a negative regulator of Th17 cell generation, is a direct target of both miRNAs and its downregulation can affect the transcriptional level of JAK/STAT pathway genes. Overall, our results have identified two novel Th17 lineage-associated miRNAs and have provided evidence for the RARB-dependent mechanism of miR-141-3p and miR-200a-3p-induced Th17 cell differentiation and hence Th17-mediated autoimmunity.

Study on effects of miR-141-3p in proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis of colon cancer cells by inhibiting Bcl2

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between miR-141-3p and B lymphocyte-2 gene (Bcl2) gene and its biological behavior on colon cancer cell line SW480.

METHODS

qRT-PCR was used to detect the expression level of miR-141-3p in colon cancer tissues and adjacent tissues, as well as in colon cancer cell line and normal human colonic epithelial cell line FHC. MTT assay, wound assay, and Transwell demonstrated the effects of miR-141-3p on colon cancer proliferation, migration and invasion. Targetscan7.1 predictive software and dual luciferase reporter assays were used to detect the targeted regulation of miR-141-3p on the apoptosis-related gene Bcl2. MTT assay, wound assay, Transwell and flow cytometry were used to detect the effect of Bcl2 on miR-141-3p on colon cancer proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis.

RESULTS

Compared with adjacent tissues, the expression of miR-141-3p in colon cancer tissues was significantly down-regulated. Colon cancer patients with low expression of miR-141-3p had poorer prognosis. Compared with normal colonic epithelial cells, miR-141-3p expression was significantly down-regulated in colon cancer cell lines, and overexpression of miR-141-3p significantly attenuated the proliferation, migration and invasion of colon cancer cells. Knockdown of miR-141-3p significantly promoted the proliferation, migration and invasion of colon cancer cells. miR-141-3p targets the negative regulation of Bcl2. Knockdown of Bcl2 significantly attenuated the promotion of miR-141-3p inhibitor on proliferation, migration and invasion of colon cancer cells and inhibition of apoptosis. Knockdown of Bcl2 significantly enhanced the inhibition effect of miR-141-3p inhibitor on proliferation, migration and invasion of colon cancer cells.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, miR-141-3p can inhibit the cancer by regulating Bcl2, and miR-141-3p has the potential to become a potential therapeutic target for colon cancer.

CircRNA_100395 Carried by Exosomes From Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Inhibits the Malignant Transformation of Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma Through the miR-141-3p-LATS2 Axis

OBJECTIVE

The specific purpose of this study is to investigate the impact exosomes from adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell (AMSC) has on non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) and the relative applications.

METHODS

circ_100395, miR-141-3p, and LATS2 were expressed and detected in NSCLC and paracancerous tissues as well as NSCLC cell lines. Pearson correlation analysis, Dual-Luciferase Reporter Assay and RNA pull-down assay were used to validate their expression and interaction, respectively. After isolation and culture of AMSCs, exosomes were extracted and identified. EdU, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and cell colony formation assay were used to distinguish the biological activity of the cells. Expression Hippo/YAP signalling pathway-related proteins were measured by western blotting. Subsequently, tumour volume and weight were confirmed based on xenograft nude mice models, Ki-67 and LATS2 expression was observed by immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

circ_100395 was lowly expressed in NSCLC tissues or cells. The negative correlations and interactions were confirmed between circ_100395 and miR-141-3p, miR-141-3p, and LATS2. AMSC-derived exosomes with overexpression of circ_100395 (exo-circ_100395) significantly inhibited the biological activity as well as EMT of H1650 cells and Hippo/YAP signalling pathway activity. In addition, exo-circ_100395 markedly reduced tumour volume and weight as well as Ki-67 and LASP1 expression in vivo. However, overexpressed miR-141-3p or knocked down LATS2 alleviated the above effects.

CONCLUSION

Exo-circ_100395 can increase LATS2 expression by sponging miR-141-3p to regulate Hippo/YAP signalling pathway, thereby inhibiting NSCLC malignant transformation.

MiR-141-3p overexpression suppresses the malignancy of osteosarcoma by targeting FUS to degrade LDHB

Osteosarcoma (OS) is a common malignant bone cancer. Lactate dehydrogenase B (LDHB) has been revealed to act as a tumor promoter in several cancers. It is also revealed to be correlated with poor prognosis in OS, but its molecular mechanism in OS remains veiled. Our work illustrated that LDHB was overexpressed in OS tissues and cells, and it could enhance cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in OS. Subsequently, it was confirmed that fused in sarcoma (FUS) could bind with LDHB to positively regulate the stability of LDHB messenger RNA (mRNA). Besides, FUS expression was revealed to be elevated in OS tissues and positively correlate with LDHB expression. Furthermore, miR-141-3p, down-regulated in OS cells, was identified as the upstream regulator of FUS in OS cells. Besides, miR-141-3p overexpression decreased mRNA and protein levels of FUS and LDHB. More importantly, overexpression of miR-141-3p could impair FUS overexpression-mediated promotion on LDHB mRNA stability and expression. Finally, rescue assays indicated that miR-141-3p regulated OS cells cellular process via regulating LDHB. In sum, miR-141-3p targets FUS to degrade LDHB, thereby attenuating the malignancy of OS cells.

Rhynchophylline improves trophocyte mobility potential by upregulating ZEB1 level via the inhibition of miR-141-3p level

Preeclampsia (PE) is characterized by the impaired invasive ability of trophocytes, which can be modulated by microRNAs (miRs). In the current study, the effects of rhynchophylline (Rhy) on the viability and invasive ability of trophocytes were explored by focusing on miR-141-3p/ZEB1 axis. The level of miR-141-3p was modulated in human trophocytes and the changes in cell viability, apoptosis, invasive ability, and ZEB1 level were detected. Then the trophocytes with miR-141-3p overexpression were treated with Rhy and the effects on trophocyte phenotypes were assessed. The induced miR-141-3p level suppressed cell viability, induced apoptosis, and inhibited invasion and ZEB1 level in trophocytes. The treatment of Rhy restored the viability and invasive ability of trophocytes under the overexpression of miR-141-3p, indicating the protective effects of Rhy on trophocytes. The findings in the current study highlighted the protective effects of Rhy on trophocytes during PE progression, which was associated with the inhibition of miR-141-3p.

MicroRNA-141-3p regulates cellular proliferation, migration, and invasion in esophageal cancer by targeting tuberous sclerosis complex 1

MicroRNA (miR)-141-3p, which functions as an oncogene in multiple malignancies, has been shown to be highly overexpressed in esophageal cancer cells in our previous work. miR-141-3p is predicted to bind the messenger RNA (mRNA) of tuberous sclerosis complex 1 (TSC1), a tumor suppressor, with high affinity. In this study, we investigated the expression and functional interaction between miR-141-3p and TSC1 in esophageal cancer cells. Experiments were conducted in four esophageal cancer lines and in tumor cells isolated from human esophageal cancer specimens by laser capture microdissection. miR-141-3p expression was measured by real time and droplet digital PCR. Biotinylated RNA pull-down and luciferase reporter assays were used to assess binding. miR-141-3p function was tested by assessing proliferation, migration, invasion, and induction of autophagy following its silencing. We found that miR-141-3p levels were increased in TE7, OE33, and TE10 esophageal cancer cells compared to FLO-1 cells, with similar heterogeneity observed in human esophageal cancer specimens. Silencing of miR-141-3p led to increased TSC1 protein expression in these cells and was associated with increased TSC1 translation. Binding studies reveal that miR-141-3p binds to each of the predicted binding sites in the 3'-untranslated region of TSC1 mRNA. Following miR-141-3p silencing, TE7, OE33, and TE10 cells exhibited decreased proliferation, migration, and invasion, as well as enhanced autophagy. Importantly, these phenotypic effects were replicated by overexpression of TSC1 alone in these cells. Our results indicate that miR-141-3p functions in an oncogenic capacity in a subset of esophageal cancer cells, in part by suppressing TSC1 expression.

Linc00475 promotes the progression of glioma by regulating the miR-141-3p/YAP1 axis

Glioma is the most prevalent and lethal primary brain tumour. Abundant long non‐coding RNAs ( lncRNAs) are aberrant and play crucial roles in the oncogenesis of glioma. The exact functions of linc00475 in glioma remain blurred. Here, we analysed the expression levels of linc00475 by qRT‐PCR and discovered that linc00475 was up‐regulated in glioma and predicted a poor prognosis in patients with glioma. Besides, inhibiting linc00475 restrained the progression of glioma in vitro and in vivo. Further experiments confirmed that linc00475 regulated the progression of glioma by acting as a sponge for miR‐141‐3p. Moreover, we detected the binding sites of linc00475 and miR‐141‐3p, the YAP1‐ 3′UTR and miR‐141‐3p by luciferase reporters. The rescue assays confirmed that inhibiting linc00475 restrained the progression of glioma through the miR‐141‐3p/YAP1 pathway. Collectively, our research demonstrates the key roles of linc00475 in glioma, which could be a promising therapeutic target.

Silencing of the lncRNA TUG1 attenuates the epithelial-mesenchymal transition of renal tubular epithelial cells by sponging miR-141-3p via regulating β-catenin

Renal interstitial fibrosis (RIF) is characterized by excessive extracellular matrix deposition and involves epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). The lncRNA taurine-upregulated gene 1 (TUG1) participates in EMT in several cancers; however, the effect and underlying mechanism of TUG1 in RIF-related EMT remain unclear. Here, we explored the mechanisms by which TUG1 modulates RIF. An in vivo model of renal fibrosis was established by unilateral ureteral obstruction in Balb/c mice. Human renal proximal tubular epithelial (HK-2) cells treated with transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 were used to induce the in vitro model. Morphological changes and TUG1 expression were assessed. HK-2 cells were transfected with siRNA to silence TUG1. Western blot analysis, immunofluorescence staining, cell proliferation, and migration assays were performed to examine TGF-β1-induced changes in EMT markers and EMT-like cell behaviors. TUG1 and β-catenin (CTNNB1) levels were significantly upregulated, whereas miR-141-3p was significantly downregulated, during EMT in vitro and in vivo. TUG1 knockdown or miR-141-3p overexpression supported the epithelioid morphology of HK-2 cells while enhancing the downregulation of E-cadherin and upregulation of vimentin, α-smooth muscle actin, and β-catenin levels in TGF-β1-treated HK-2 cells. TUG1 knockdown promoted the proliferation and decreased the migration of HK-2 cells and enhanced the downregulation of miR-141-3p levels in TGF-β1-treated HK-2 cells. TUG1 directly targeted miR-141-3p, and miR-141-3p was directly bound to CTNNB1. Downregulation of miR-141-3p inhibited TUG1 silencing-induced suppression of EMT. In conclusion, TUG1 promotes EMT in TGF-β1-induced HK-2 cells via upregulation of β-catenin levels by sponging miR-141-3p, suggesting a novel therapeutic candidate for RIF.

LncRNA MALAT1 promotes wound healing via regulating miR-141-3p/ZNF217 axis

Background

The process of wound healing is complex. Increasing evidences have shown that lncRNA MALAT1 is abundant in fibroblasts and may be engaged in wound healing process. Therefore, we explored the mechanism of MALAT1 affecting wound healing.

Methods

The expression levels of MALAT1, miR-141-3p as well as ZNF217 in human fibroblast cells (HFF-1) were quantified by qRT-PCR. HFF-1 proliferation was measured by MTT, while migration was detected by wound healing assay. SMAD2 activation and matrix proteins expression were detected by western blotting. The interaction between miR-141-3p and MALAT1 or ZNF217 was further confirmed using the luciferase reporter gene assay. In vivo wound healing was assessed by full-thickness wound healing model on C57BL/6 mice.

Result

Knockdown of MALAT1 as well as overexpression miR-141-3p remarkably inhibited the proliferation, migration and matrix protein expression in HFF-1 cells. MALAT1 directly targeted and inhibited the expression of miR-141-3p. MiR-141-3p suppressed the activation of TGF-β2/SMAD2 signaling pathway by targeting ZNF217. Knockdown of MALAT1 inhibited wound healing process in mice.

Conclusions

MALAT1 up-regulates ZNF217 expression by targeting miR-141-3p, thus enhances the activity of TGF-β2/SMAD2 signaling pathway and promotes wound healing process. This investigation shed new light on the understanding of the role of MALAT1 in wound healing, and may provide potential target for the diagnosis or therapy of chronic wounds.

miR-141-3p inhibits vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration via regulating Keap1/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway

miR-141-3p is proven to play a prominent role in various inflammation-related diseases. Nonetheless, little is known concerning the function of miR-141-3p in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) dysfunction and the underlying mechanism. ApoE knockdown (ApoE^-/- ) C57BL/6 mice and human VSMCs were employed to establish atherosclerosis (AS) animal model and cell model, respectively. The expressions of miR-141-3p and Keap1 mRNA were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was conducted to determine inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-β and TNF-α. Cell proliferation, migration and apoptosis were analyzed by BrdU assay, Transwell assay and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay, respectively. Luciferase reporter assay was carried out to determine the regulatory relationship between miR-141-3p and Keap1. Additionally, Western blot was used to detect the function of miR-141-3p on the expression levels of Keap1, Nrf2 and HO-1 in VSMCs. miR-141-3p was remarkably down-regulated in both AS animal model and cell model while the expression of Keap1 was elevated. Proliferation and migration of VSMCs were suppressed after miR-141-3p mimics transfection and cell apoptosis was promoted. miR-141-3p also inhibited the expressions of IL-6, IL-β, TNF-α and Keap1 but promoted the expressions of Nrf2 and HO-1. Moreover, the binding site between miR-141-3p and the 3'UTR of Keap1 was confirmed. miR-141-3p is down-regulated during AS, and it can alleviate VSMCs' dysfunction by targeting the Keap1/Nrf2/HO-1 axis.

miR-141-3p promotes proliferation and metastasis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma by targeting NME1

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the expression and biological function of miR-141-3p in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) via targeting neoplasm metastasis 1 (NME1).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The expression of miR-141-3p and NME1 in 5-8F, C666-1, CNE-1, CNE-2, 6-10B and NP69 nasopharyngeal epithelial cells were detected using real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (real-time PCR) and western blot, respectively. Cell proliferation was detected using Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), and the metastasis was detected using Transwell. The binding of miR-141-3p to NME1 was detected by dual luciferase reporter gene detection system. The effects of miR-141-3p on tumor growth were also determined in vivo.

RESULTS

The results showed that the expression of miR-141-3p significantly increased in various tumor cell lines and the expression of NME1 was higher in NP69 cells and lower in 5-8F cells, which had significant negative correlation. Furthermore, the expression of NME1 was significantly reduced after transfection of miR-141-3p and miR-141-3p promoted cell proliferation and metastasis. The double luciferase reporter gene detection system confirmed that NME1 was the target gene of miR-141-3p. Knockout of NME1 promoted the proliferation and metastasis of NP69 or 6-10B cells and the activation of p-Akt, which were abrogated by miR-141-3p. In vivo, the tumor volumes and weights in the miR-141-3p group significantly increased followed by down-regulation of NME1 and activation of p-Akt.

CONCLUSIONS

We confirmed that miR-141-3p promotes the proliferation and metastasis of NPC by targeting NME1.

Long noncoding RNA HCG18 up-regulates the expression of WIPF1 and YAP/TAZ by inhibiting miR-141-3p in gastric cancer

Background

Accumulating works show that lncRNAs play critical roles in the development of gastric cancer (GC). LncRNA HLA complex group 18 (HCG18) was implicated in the progression of bladder cancer and glioma, but its role in GC is unknown.

Methods

RT‐PCR was used to detect HCG18 and miR‐141‐3p expression in GC specimen. GC cell lines (AGS and MKN‐28) were exploited as cell model. The biological effect of HCG18 on cancer cells was probed by CCK‐8, colony formation, flow cytometry, Transwell and wound‐healing experiments in vitro, and subcutaneous xenotransplanted tumor model and tail vein injection model in vivo. Interaction between HCG18 and miR‐141‐3p was determined by bioinformatics analysis, RT‐PCR, and luciferase reporter experiments. Downstream gene expression of miR‐141‐3p, including Wiskott–Aldrich syndrome protein interacting protein family member 1 (WIPF1), Yes associated protein 1 (YAP), and tafazzin (TAZ) were detected using Western blot.

Results

HCG18 was markedly up‐regulated in GC specimens, while miR‐141‐3p was markedly down‐regulated. Down‐regulation of HCG18 inhibited viability, migration, and invasion of GC cells, while miR‐141‐3p transfection led to opposite effect. HCG18 could down‐regulate miR‐141‐3p through adsorbing it, and a negative association between HCG18 and miR‐141‐3p was found in GC specimens. HCG18 promoted WIPF1, YAP and TAZ expression, nonetheless, such influence was reversed by co‐transfecting with miR‐141‐3p.

Conclusion

HCG18 was aberrantly up‐regulated in GC tissues, and it indirectly regulated the activity of Hippo signaling through counteracting miR‐141‐3p expression.

Hypoxia-responsive miR-141-3p is involved in the progression of breast cancer via mediating the HMGB1/HIF-1α signaling pathway

Background

Hypoxia‐responsive miRs have been frequently reported in the growth of various malignant tumors. The present study aimed to investigate whether hypoxia‐responsive miR‐141–3p was implicated in the pathogenesis of breast cancer via mediating the high‐mobility group box protein 1 (HMGB1)/hypoxia‐inducible factor (HIF)‐1α signaling pathway.

Materials and methods

miRs expression profiling was filtrated by miR microarray assays. Gene and protein expression levels, respectively, were examined by a quantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chaion reaction and western blotting. Cell migration and invasion were analyzed using a transwell assay. Cell growth was determined using nude‐mouse transplanted tumor experiments.

Results

miR‐141–3p was observed as a hypoxia‐responsive miR in breast cancer. miR‐141–3p was down‐regulated in breast cancer specimens and could serve as an independent prognostic factor for predicting overall survival in breast cancer patients. In addition, the overexpression of miR‐141–3p could inhibit hypoxia‐induced cell migration and impede human breast cancer MDA‐MB‐231 cell growth in vivo. Mechanistically, the hypoxia‐related HMGB1/HIF‐1α signaling pathway might be a possible target of miR‐141–3p with respect to preventing the development of breast cancer.

Conclusions

Our finding provides a new mechanism by which miR‐141–3p could prevent hypoxia‐induced breast tumorigenesis via post‐transcriptional repression of the HMGB1/HIF‐1α signaling pathway.

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

Rationale: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a prototype of inflammatory arthritis in which synovial fibroblasts (SFs) play key roles in cartilage and bone destruction through tumor-like proliferation, migration, invasion and inflammation. This study aimed to research forkhead box protein C1 (FoxC1) and microRNA (miR)-141-3p, which modulate pathological changes in the synovial membrane, to find possible strategies for treating RA.

Methods: FoxC1, β-catenin and miR-141-3p gene expression in synovial tissues and SFs was quantified by real-time PCR; FoxC1 and β-catenin protein levels were evaluated by immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and Western blotting. We transiently transfected human SFs with FoxC1 and β-catenin overexpression and silencing vectors and assessed proliferation, migration, invasion and inflammation by cell function and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. We also assessed downstream signaling activation using immunofluorescence, real-time PCR and Western blotting. Double luciferase, coimmunoprecipitation and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays were used to verify miR-141-3p, FoxC1 and β-catenin gene and protein combinations. Finally, the therapeutic effects of FoxC1 silencing and miR-141-3p overexpression were evaluated in type II collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rats.

Results: We found that FoxC1 expression was significantly upregulated in synovium and SFs in both RA patients and rats with collagen-induced arthritis (CIA). FoxC1 overexpression increased β-catenin messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein levels and upregulated cyclin D1, c-Myc, fibronectin and matrix metalloproteinase 3 (MMP3) mRNA and protein expression in RA SFs (RASFs). In contrast, FoxC1 knockdown reduced β-catenin mRNA and protein levels as well as cyclin D1, c-Myc, and fibronectin mRNA and protein levels in RASFs. Furthermore, altering FoxC1 expression did not significantly change GSK3β and pGSK3β levels. FoxC1 overexpression promoted proliferation, migration, invasion and proinflammatory cytokine (interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)) production and reduced anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-10) levels in RASFs. FoxC1 bound to the β-catenin promoter, and β-catenin mediated the FoxC1-induced pathological changes. We also observed downregulated microRNA (miR)-141-3p expression in SFs from both RA patients and CIA rats and further found that miR-141-3p bound to the FoxC1 3′UTR and suppressed FoxC1 expression. Intra-ankle miR-141-3p agomir or FoxC1-specific siRNA injection hindered CIA development in rats.

Conclusions: FoxC1 and miR-141-3p participate in RA pathogenesis by mediating inflammation and SF proliferation, migration, and invasion and thus could be novel targets for RA therapy as a nonimmunosuppressive approach.

Long non-coding RNA SNHG15 is a competing endogenous RNA of miR-141-3p that prevents osteoarthritis progression by upregulating BCL2L13 expression

Increasing evidence has demonstrated that the dysregulated expression of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) has important roles in the progression of osteoarthritis (OA), but the function of the lncRNA SNHG15 remains unclear. In the present study, we observed that SNHG15 was downregulated in OA cartilage tissues and IL-1β-induced chondrocytes. The lower expression of SNHG15 was negatively associated with the observed modified Mankin scale scores, extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation and chondrocyte apoptosis. Downregulated expression of SNHG15 increased chondrocyte viability and decreased chondrocyte apoptosis and ECM degradation in vitro and reduced damage to articular cartilage in vivo. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that SNHG15 overexpression promotes the expression of BCL2L13 by sponging miR-141-3p. The higher expression of miR-141-3p was negatively correlated with SNHG15 and BCL2L13 levels in OA cartilage tissues, and a positive correlation was also shown between SNHG15 and BCL2L13 levels. Furthermore, ectopic expression of miR-141-3p or knockdown of BCL2L13 expression could both reduce the effects of SNHG15 on chondrocyte proliferation, apoptosis and ECM degradation. Collectively, these findings reveal that SNHG15 inhibits OA progression by acting as an miR-141-3p sponge to promote BCL2L13 expression, suggesting that knockdown of SNHG15 expression in chondrocytes can be a potential therapeutic strategy to ameliorate OA progression.

miR-141-3p and TRAF5 Network Contributes to the Progression of T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Numerous lines of evidence have shown that microRNAs (miRNAs) play a vital role in regulating the progression in many types of cancers, including T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL). In this study, the potential underlying mechanism and functional role of miR-141-3p in T-ALL cells were determined. We found that the expression level of miR-141-3p was significantly downregulated, while that of tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 5 (TRAF5) was strongly upregulated in tissues from patients with T-ALL compared with healthy controls. Subsequently, upregulation of miR-141-3p significantly repressed T-ALL cell proliferation and promoted cell apoptosis. Conversely, downregulation of miR-141-3p significantly inhibited cell apoptosis and enhanced T-ALL cell proliferation. We also verified that TRAF5 was the direct target of miR-141-3p in T-ALL cells. Additionally, TRAF5 overexpression significantly repressed cell apoptosis and increased T-ALL cell proliferation. In summary, miR-141-3p regulates T-ALL cell progression by directly targeting TRAF5, and may serve as a potential therapeutic target for T-ALL.

MicroRNA-141-3p affected proliferation, chemosensitivity, migration and invasion of colorectal cancer cells by targeting EGFR

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most often diagnosed cancers globally. MicroRNAs are small RNA molecules that play essential roles in tumorigenesis and progression of CRC. Here we evaluated the effects of miR-141-3p on growth, cetuximab sensitivity, migration and invasion of CRC cells. We found that miR-141-3p negatively regulated the proliferation, migration and invasion in CRC cells. In addition, miR-141-3p enhanced the cetuximab sensitivity of CRC cells by EGFR suppression. Moreover, miR-141-3p improved cetuximab-induced apoptosis in CRC cells. Furthermore, miR-141-3p altered the expression of E-cadherin, N-cadherin, snail and Vimentin, indicating miR-141-3p might play a role on epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT). Luciferase reporter assay showed that EGFR was the direct binding site of miR-141-3p and the expression levels of p-EGFR, Raf-1, pAKT and p-ERK1/2 were regulated by miR-141-3p. After down-regulation of EGFR by siRNA in CRC cells, the effects of miR-141-3p on proliferation, migration and invasion were reversed. miR-141-3p played important roles in CRC growth and response to cetuximab treatment, and might function as a potential biomarker to predict cetuximab response.

Neither miR-7-5p nor miR-141-3p is a major mediator of iron-responsive transferrin receptor-1 mRNA degradation

The transferrin receptor (TfR1) is the principal means of iron importation for most mammalian cells, and regulation of mRNA stability is a major mechanism through which TfR1 expression is controlled in response to changing intracellular iron levels. An endonuclease activity degrades the TfR1 mRNA during iron-repletion, which reduces iron importation and contributes to the restoration of homeostasis. Correct identification of the TfR1 mRNA endonuclease activity is important as it has the potential to be a pharmacological target for the treatment of several pathologies in which iron homeostasis is perturbed. A recent RNA article identified both miR-7-5p and miR-141-3p as mediators of TfR1 mRNA degradation during iron-repletion. However, the proposed TfR1 microRNA binding sites are inconsistent with several earlier studies. To better understand the discrepancy, we tested the proposed sites within an assay developed to detect changes to TfR1 mRNA stability. The complete disruption of both proposed binding sites failed to impact the assay in all cell lines tested, which include cell lines derived from mouse connective tissue (L-M), a human colon adenocarcinoma (SW480), and a human ovarian carcinoma (A2780). The overexpression of a miR-7-5p mimic also failed to decrease expression of both the endogenous TfR1 mRNA and a luciferase-TfR1 reporter under conditions in which the expression of a previously identified mir-7-5p target is attenuated. As a result, it is unlikely that the microRNAs are directly mediating iron-responsive degradation of the TfR1 mRNA as recently proposed. Instead, three short hairpin loops within the TfR1 3'-UTR are shown to be more consistent as endonuclease recognition elements.

Alpinumisoflavone Inhibits Tumor Growth and Metastasis in Papillary Thyroid Cancer via Upregulating miR-141-3p

Alpinumisoflavone (AIF) as a principal active ingredient of traditional Chinese herb Derris eriocarpa exerts a broad spectrum of anticancer activities against solid tumors. However, little is known about the effect of AIF on papillary thyroid cancer (PTC). Objectives of this study are to investigate the effect of AIF on cell growth, apoptosis, and metastasis of PTC cells and uncover its underlying mechanisms. Results showed that AIF treatment notably suppressed cell viability, migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process, as well as induced apoptotic cell death. In addition, microarray analysis results revealed that miR-141-3p level was dramatically elevated upon AIF insulation, suggesting that miR-141-3p may mediate the suppressive role of AIF against PTC. Moreover, miR-141-3p knockdown effectively reversed the effects of AIF on cell growth, migration, invasion, and EMT, while promoted PTC cell apoptosis escape. Furthermore, in vivo findings also confirmed that the antigrowth and antimetastasis activities of AIF were, at least partly, mediated by upregulation of miR-141-3p. Overall, AIF could serve as a potential anticancer compound for PTC treatment. Anat Rec, 2019. © 2019 American Association for Anatomy Anat Rec, 303:1842-1850, 2020. © 2019 American Association for Anatomy.

LncRNA TP73-AS1 interacted with miR-141-3p to promote the proliferation of non-small cell lung cancer

INTRODUCTION

Recent studies have shown that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in a variety of biological processes and diseases in humans, including cancer. However, the exact effects and molecular mechanisms of TP73-AS1 in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) progression are still unknown. The present study is aimed to reveal the detailed functions and the mechanism of TP73-AS1 in the regulation of NSCLC cell proliferation.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

TP73-AS1 expression in NSCLC tissues and cell lines was determined using real-time PCR assays. The functions of TP73-AS1 in the regulation of NSCLC cell proliferation was evaluated using BrdU assays. The interaction between TP73-AS1 and miR-141-3p was confirmed using luciferase report gene assays.

RESULTS

TP73-AS1 was upregulated in NSCLC tissues and cell lines. However, when knockdown of TP73-AS1 inhibited the NSCLC proliferation. By using online tools, we screened out miR-141-3p may combined with TP73-AS1. With use of luciferase assays, we confirmed that miR-141-3p could directly bind to TP73-AS1. In NSCLC tissues, miR-141-3p was down-regulated; TP73-AS1 was inversely correlated with miR-141-3p.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that TP73-AS1 might be an oncogenic lncRNA that promotes proliferation of NSCLC and might be regarded as a therapeutic target in NSCLC.

MiR-141-3p regulates proliferation and senescence of stem cells from apical papilla by targeting YAP

Biological phenotypes of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are regulated by a series of biochemical elements, including microRNAs, hormones and growth factors. Our previous study illustrated a significant role of miR-141-3p during the osteogenic differentiation of stem cells from apical papilla (SCAPs). Nevertheless, the functions of miR-141-3p in regulating the proliferative ability and senescence of SCAPs have not been determined. This study identified that overexpression of miR-141-3p inhibited the proliferative ability of SCAPs. Meanwhile, the senescence of SCAPs was ahead of time. Conversely, transfection of miR-141-3p inhibitor promoted the proliferative ability of SCAPs and delayed their senescence. Yes-associated protein (YAP) was predicted as the downstream target gene of miR-141-3p by online softwares (miRDB, miRTarBase, miRWalk, and TargetScan), and was further verified by dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. Additionally, knockdown of YAP inhibited the proliferation and accelerated the senescence of SCAPs. Collectively, these findings proposed a novel direction that miR-141-3p impeded proliferative ability and promoted senescence of SCAPs through post-transcriptionally downregulating YAP.

MiR-188-5p and MiR-141-3p influence prognosis of bladder cancer and promote bladder cancer synergistically

MicroRNA (miRNA) plays a significant role in suppressing the occurrence and development of tumor by inhibiting the translation of target proteins. Although previous researches have verified many miRNAs' functions in bladder cancer (BC), the function of miR-188-5p and miR-141-3p in BC still remains unknown. Our experiment manifested that miR-188-5p and miR-141-3p were highly expressed in BC tissues and cells, which indicated a poor prognosis. In vitro functional assays suggested that down-regulated miR-188-5p and miR-141-3p inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of BC cells, while a combination of half dose down-regulated miR-188-5p and half dose down-regulated miR-141-3p demonstrated a more obvious inhibition effect. All results indicated that miR-188-5p and miR-141-3p promoted BC respectively and synergistically. Therefore, miR-188-5p and miR-141-3p will not only assist the diagnosis of BC, but also serve as more effective joint markers to predict the progression of BC.