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Agrawal R, Altamura S, Stanke F, Meister M, Muley T, Randell SH, Greene CM, Tümmler B, Muckenthaler MU, Mall MA. Dysregulation of epithelial miR-148b contributes to goblet cell metaplasia, inflammation and alveolar damage in cystic fibrosis lung disease. Pneumologie 2015. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0035-1556595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Oglesby IK, Vencken SF, Agrawal R, Gaughan K, Molloy K, Higgins G, McNally P, McElvaney NG, Mall MA, Greene CM. miR-17 overexpression in cystic fibrosis airway epithelial cells decreases interleukin-8 production. Eur Respir J 2015; 46:1350-60. [PMID: 26160865 DOI: 10.1183/09031936.00163414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2014] [Accepted: 04/29/2015] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Interleukin (IL)-8 levels are higher than normal in cystic fibrosis (CF) airways, causing neutrophil infiltration and non-resolving inflammation. Overexpression of microRNAs that target IL-8 expression in airway epithelial cells may represent a therapeutic strategy for cystic fibrosis. IL-8 protein and mRNA were measured in cystic fibrosis and non-cystic fibrosis bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and bronchial brushings (n=20 per group). miRNAs decreased in the cystic fibrosis lung and predicted to target IL-8 mRNA were quantified in βENaC-transgenic, cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (Cftr)-/- and wild-type mice, primary cystic fibrosis and non-cystic fibrosis bronchial epithelial cells and a range of cystic fibrosis versus non-cystic fibrosis airway epithelial cell lines or cells stimulated with lipopolysaccharide, Pseudomonas-conditioned medium or cystic fibrosis bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. The effect of miRNA overexpression on IL-8 protein production was measured. miR-17 regulates IL-8 and its expression was decreased in adult cystic fibrosis bronchial brushings, βENaC-transgenic mice and bronchial epithelial cells chronically stimulated with Pseudomonas-conditioned medium. Overexpression of miR-17 inhibited basal and agonist-induced IL-8 protein production in F508del-CFTR homozygous CFTE29o(-) tracheal, CFBE41o(-) and/or IB3 bronchial epithelial cells. These results implicate defective CFTR, inflammation, neutrophilia and mucus overproduction in regulation of miR-17. Modulating miR-17 expression in cystic fibrosis bronchial epithelial cells may be a novel anti-inflammatory strategy for cystic fibrosis and other chronic inflammatory airway diseases.
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Jundi K, Greene CM. Transcription of Interleukin-8: How Altered Regulation Can Affect Cystic Fibrosis Lung Disease. Biomolecules 2015; 5:1386-98. [PMID: 26140537 PMCID: PMC4598756 DOI: 10.3390/biom5031386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2015] [Revised: 06/19/2015] [Accepted: 06/20/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-8 (IL-8) is a neutrophil chemokine that is encoded on the CXCL8 gene. Normally CXCL8 expression is repressed due to histone deacetylation, octamer-1 binding to the promoter and the inhibitory effect of nuclear factor-κB repressing factor (NRF). However, in response to a suitable stimulus, the human CXCL8 gene undergoes transcription due to its inducible promoter that is regulated by the transcription factors nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), activating protein (AP-1), CAAT/enhancer-binding protein β (C/EBPβ, also known as NF-IL-6), C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) and cAMP response element binding protein (CREB). CXCL8 mRNA is then stabilised by the activity of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK). Cystic fibrosis (CF) lung disease is characterised by a neutrophil-dominated airway inflammatory response. A major factor contributing to the large number of neutrophils is the higher than normal levels of IL-8 that are present within the CF lung. Infection and inflammation, together with intrinsic alterations in CF airway cells are responsible for the abnormally high intrapulmonary levels of IL-8. Strategies to inhibit aberrantly high CXCL8 expression hold therapeutic potential for CF lung disease.
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Oglesby IK, Agrawal R, Mall MA, McElvaney NG, Greene CM. miRNA-221 is elevated in cystic fibrosis airway epithelial cells and regulates expression of ATF6. Mol Cell Pediatr 2015; 2:1. [PMID: 26542291 PMCID: PMC5407678 DOI: 10.1186/s40348-014-0012-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2014] [Accepted: 11/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background MicroRNA (miRNA) and messenger RNA (mRNA) expression differs in
cystic fibrosis (CF) versus non-CF bronchial epithelium. Here, the role of miRNA
in basal regulation of the transcription factor ATF6 was investigated in bronchial
epithelial cells in vitro and in vivo. Methods Using in silico analysis, miRNAs
predicted to target the 3′untranslated region (3′UTR) of the human ATF6 mRNA were
identified. Results Three of these miRNAs, miR-145, miR-221 and miR-494, were upregulated in
F508del-CFTR homozygous CFBE41o- versus non-CF 16HBE14o- bronchial epithelial
cells and also in F508del-CFTR homozygous or heterozygous CF (n = 8) versus non-CF (n = 9) bronchial brushings. ATF6 was experimentally validated as a
molecular target of these miRNAs through the use of a luciferase reporter vector
containing the full-length 3′UTR of ATF6. Expression of ATF6 was observed to be
decreased in CF both in vivo and in vitro. miR-221 was also predicted to regulate murine
ATF6, and its expression was significantly increased in native airway tissues of
6-week-old βENaC-overexpressing transgenic mice with CF-like lung disease versus
wild-type littermates. Conclusions These results implicate miR-145, miR-221 and miR-494 in the
regulation of ATF6 in CF bronchial epithelium, with miR-221 demonstrating
structural and functional conservation between humans and mice. The altered miRNA
expression evident in CF bronchial epithelial cells can affect expression of
transcriptional regulators such as ATF6.
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Vencken S, Hassan T, McElvaney NG, Smith SGJ, Greene CM. miR-CATCH: microRNA capture affinity technology. Methods Mol Biol 2015; 1218:365-373. [PMID: 25319664 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-1538-5_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Several experimental methods exist to explore the microRNA (miRNA) regulome. These methods almost exclusively focus on multiple targets bound to a single, or perhaps a few miRNAs of interest. Here, we describe a microRNA capture affinity technology (miR-CATCH) which uses an affinity capture oligonucleotide to co-purify a single target messenger RNA (mRNA) together with all its endogenously bound miRNAs. This bench-top method is similar to RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and provides an experimental alternative to computational miRNA target prediction.
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Greene CM, Hartl D. Developmental control of CFTR: from bioinformatics to novel therapeutic approaches. Eur Respir J 2014; 45:18-20. [DOI: 10.1183/09031936.00138914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Vencken SF, Greene CM, McKiernan PJ. Non-coding RNA as lung disease biomarkers. Thorax 2014; 70:501-3. [PMID: 25550385 DOI: 10.1136/thoraxjnl-2014-206193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2014] [Accepted: 12/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Biomarkers are quantifiable indicators of disease. These surrogates should be specific, sensitive, predictive, robust and easily accessible. A major class of RNA described as non-coding RNA fulfils many of these criteria, and recent studies have demonstrated that the two major subclasses of non-coding RNA, long non-coding RNA and, in particular, microRNA are promising potential biomarkers. The ability to detect non-coding RNAs in biofluids has highlighted their usefulness as non-invasive markers of lung disease. Because expression of specific non-coding RNAs is altered in many lung diseases and their levels in the circulation often reflect the changes in expression of their lung-specific counterparts, exploiting these biomolecules as diagnostic tools seems an obvious goal. New technology is driving developments in this area and there has been significant recent progress with respect to lung cancer diagnostics. The non-coding RNA biomarker field represents a clear example of modern-day bench-to-bedside research.
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McNicholas S, Talento AF, O'Gorman J, Hannan MM, Lynch M, Greene CM, Humphreys H, Fitzgerald-Hughes D. Cytokine responses to Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infection differ between patient cohorts that have different clinical courses of infection. BMC Infect Dis 2014; 14:580. [PMID: 25398383 PMCID: PMC4237739 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-014-0580-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2013] [Accepted: 10/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The clinical course of Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infection is unpredictable and bacterial virulence, host immune response and patient characteristics are among the factors that contribute to the clinical course of infection. To investigate the relationship between cytokine response and clinical outcome, circulating cytokine levels were investigated in response to S. aureus bloodstream infection in patients with different clinical courses of infection. Methods A prospective study was carried out in 61 patients with S. aureus bloodstream infection and circulating levels of IL-6, GRO-γ, RANTES and leptin were assessed over the course of the infection. Levels were compared in patients with complicated courses of infection (e.g. infective endocarditis) versus uncomplicated courses of S. aureus bloodstream infection and methicillin-resistant S. aureus Vs methicillin-susceptible S. aureus infection. Results Significantly lower leptin levels (p < 0.05) and significantly higher IL-6 levels (p < 0.05) were detected at laboratory diagnosis in patients with complicated compared to uncomplicated S. aureus bloodstream infection. Significantly higher levels of GRO-γ were associated with MRSA infection compared to MSSA infection. Conclusions IL-6 may be an early inflammatory marker of complicated S. aureus bloodstream infection. Leptin may be protective against the development of a complicated S. aureus bloodstream infection. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12879-014-0580-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Kelly C, Yadav AB, Lawlor C, Nolan K, O’Dwyer J, Greene CM, McElvaney NG, Sivadas N, Ramsey JM, Cryan SA. Therapeutic Aerosol Bioengineering of siRNA for the Treatment of Inflammatory Lung Disease by TNFα Gene Silencing in Macrophages. Mol Pharm 2014; 11:4270-9. [DOI: 10.1021/mp500473d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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Sadovskaya I, Souissi A, Souissi S, Grard T, Lencel P, Greene CM, Duin S, Dmitrenok PS, Chizhov AO, Shashkov AS, Usov AI. Chemical structure and biological activity of a highly branched (1→3,1→6)-β-d-glucan from Isochrysis galbana. Carbohydr Polym 2014; 111:139-48. [DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2014.04.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2014] [Revised: 04/16/2014] [Accepted: 04/18/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Meiners S, Greene CM. Protein quality control in lung disease: it’s all about cloud networking. Eur Respir J 2014; 44:846-9. [DOI: 10.1183/09031936.00105214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Weldon S, McNally P, McAuley DF, Oglesby IK, Wohlford-Lenane CL, Bartlett JA, Scott CJ, McElvaney NG, Greene CM, McCray PB, Taggart CC. miR-31 dysregulation in cystic fibrosis airways contributes to increased pulmonary cathepsin S production. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2014; 190:165-74. [PMID: 24940638 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.201311-1986oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Cathepsin S (CTSS) activity is increased in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid from patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). This activity contributes to lung inflammation via degradation of antimicrobial proteins, such as lactoferrin and members of the β-defensin family. OBJECTIVES In this study, we investigated the hypothesis that airway epithelial cells are a source of CTSS, and mechanisms underlying CTSS expression in the CF lung. METHODS Protease activity was determined using fluorogenic activity assays. Protein and mRNA expression were analyzed by ELISA, Western blotting, and reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS In contrast to neutrophil elastase, CTSS activity was detectable in 100% of CF BAL fluid samples from patients without Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection. In this study, we identified epithelial cells as a source of pulmonary CTSS activity with the demonstration that CF airway epithelial cells express and secrete significantly more CTSS than non-CF control cells in the absence of proinflammatory stimulation. Furthermore, levels of the transcription factor IRF-1 correlated with increased levels of its target gene CTSS. We discovered that miR-31, which is decreased in the CF airways, regulates IRF-1 in CF epithelial cells. Treating CF bronchial epithelial cells with a miR-31 mimic decreased IRF-1 protein levels with concomitant knockdown of CTSS expression and secretion. CONCLUSIONS The miR-31/IRF-1/CTSS pathway may play a functional role in the pathogenesis of CF lung disease and may open up new avenues for exploration in the search for an effective therapeutic target.
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Zhao J, Greene CM, Gray SG, Lawless MW. Long noncoding RNAs in liver cancer: what we know in 2014. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2014; 18:1207-18. [PMID: 25145388 DOI: 10.1517/14728222.2014.941285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common form of primary liver cancer with an estimated over half a million new cases diagnosed annually. Due to the difficulty in early diagnosis and lack of effective treatment options, HCC is currently ranked as the second highest neoplastic-related mortality in the world, with an extremely low 5-year survival rate of between 6 and 11%. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), are genes lacking protein coding ability, have recently emerged as pivotal participants in biological processes, often dysregulated in a range of cancers, including HCC. AREAS COVERED In this review, we highlight the recent findings of lncRNAs in HCC pathogenesis, with particular attention on epigenetic events. In silico analysis was utilized to emphasize intrinsic linkages within the ncRNA families associated with hepatocarcinogenesis. EXPERT OPINION While our understanding of lncRNAs in the onset and progression of HCC is still in its infancy, there is no doubt that understanding the activities of ncRNAs will certainly secure strong biomarkers and improve treatment options for HCC patients.
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Hendrick SM, Mroz MS, Greene CM, Keely SJ, Harvey BJ. Bile acids stimulate chloride secretion through CFTR and calcium-activated Cl- channels in Calu-3 airway epithelial cells. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2014; 307:L407-18. [PMID: 24993131 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00352.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Bile acids resulting from the aspiration of gastroesophageal refluxate are often present in the lower airways of people with cystic fibrosis and other respiratory distress diseases. Surprisingly, there is little or no information on the modulation of airway epithelial ion transport by bile acids. The secretory effect of a variety of conjugated and unconjugated secondary bile acids was investigated in Calu-3 airway epithelial cells grown under an air-liquid interface and mounted in Ussing chambers. Electrogenic transepithelial ion transport was measured as short-circuit current (Isc). The taurine-conjugated secondary bile acid, taurodeoxycholic acid (TDCA), was found to be the most potent modulator of basal ion transport. Acute treatment (5 min) of Calu-3 cells with TDCA (25 μM) on the basolateral side caused a stimulation of Isc, and removal of extracellular Cl(-) abolished this response. TDCA produced an increase in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR)-dependent current that was abolished by pretreatment with the CFTR inhibitor CFTRinh172. TDCA treatment also increased Cl(-) secretion through calcium-activated chloride (CaCC) channels and increased the Na(+)/K(+) pump current. Acute treatment with TDCA resulted in a rapid cellular influx of Ca(2+) and increased cAMP levels in Calu-3 cells. Bile acid receptor-selective activation with INT-777 revealed TGR5 localized at the basolateral membrane as the receptor involved in TDCA-induced Cl(-) secretion. In summary, we demonstrate for the first time that low concentrations of bile acids can modulate Cl(-) secretion in airway epithelial cells, and this effect is dependent on both the duration and sidedness of exposure to the bile acid.
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Agrawal R, Castoldi M, Altamura S, Stanke F, Meister M, Muley T, Greene CM, Tümmler B, Muckenthaler MU, Mall MA. Silencing of miR-148b ameliorates cystic fibrosis-like lung diseases in βENaC-overexpressing mice. Pneumologie 2014. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0034-1376785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Hassan T, Carroll TP, Buckley PG, Cummins R, O'Neill SJ, McElvaney NG, Greene CM. miR-199a-5p silencing regulates the unfolded protein response in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and α1-antitrypsin deficiency. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2014; 189:263-73. [PMID: 24299514 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.201306-1151oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Retention of abnormal α1-antitrypsin (AAT) activates the unfolded protein response in AAT-deficient monocytes. The regulatory role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in unfolded protein responses and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease pathogenesis has not been investigated. OBJECTIVES To investigate miRNA expression and function in MM and ZZ monocytes and identify miRNA(s) regulating the unfolded protein response. METHODS Peripheral blood monocytes were isolated from asymptomatic and symptomatic MM and ZZ individuals for miRNA expression profiling and pyrosequencing analysis. miRNA/gene and protein expression was measured with quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting. Overexpression and inhibition studies were performed with pre-miR or anti-miR, respectively. Luciferase reporter genes were used to elucidate direct miRNA-target interactions. Inflammatory cytokines were detected using the Meso Scale Discovery Plex assays. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Forty-three miRNAs were differentially expressed, with miR-199a-5p most highly up-regulated in asymptomatic ZZ versus MM monocytes. miR-199a-2 promoter hypermethylation inhibits miR-199a-5p expression and was increased in symptomatic MM and ZZ monocytes compared with asymptomatic counterparts. GRP78, activating transcription factor 6, p50, and p65 were increased in symptomatic versus asymptomatic ZZ monocytes. Reciprocal down- or up-regulation of these markers was observed after miRNA modulation. Direct miR-199a-5p targeting of activating transcription factor 6, p50, and p65 by miR-199a-5p was demonstrated using luciferase reporter systems. Overexpression of miR-199a-5p also decreased other arms of the UPR and expression of cytokines that are not putative targets. CONCLUSIONS miR-199a-5p is a key regulator of the unfolded protein response in AAT-deficient monocytes, and epigenetic silencing of its expression regulates this process in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
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McKiernan PJ, Molloy K, Cryan SA, McElvaney NG, Greene CM. Long noncoding RNA are aberrantly expressed in vivo in the cystic fibrosis bronchial epithelium. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2014; 52:184-91. [PMID: 24631641 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2014.02.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2013] [Revised: 02/24/2014] [Accepted: 02/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged recently as key regulatory molecules with diverse roles at almost every level of the regulation of gene expression. The roles of these RNAs in the pathogenesis of cystic fibrosis (CF); a lethal multisystem, autosomal recessive disorder have yet to be explored. Our aim was to examine the expression profile of lncRNA, in the airway epithelium of people with CF. We examined the expression of 30,586 lncRNAs by microarray (Human LncRNA Array v3.0, Arraystar, Inc.), in vivo in bronchial cells isolated from endobronchial brushings obtained from CF and non-CF individuals. In total, we identified 1,063 lncRNAs with differential expression between CF and non-CF individuals (fold change ≥3, p≤0.001). The microarray also contained probes for ∼26,109 protein coding transcripts, of which 720 were differentially expressed between CF and non-CF brush samples (fold change ≥3, p≤0.001). Confirmation of a selection of differentially expressed coding mRNA and lncRNA transcripts such as XIST and TLR8 was achieved using qRT-PCR. Gene ontology bioinformatics analysis highlighted that many processes over-represented in the CF bronchial epithelium are related to inflammation. These data show a significantly altered lncRNA and mRNA expression profile in CF bronchial cells in vivo. Dysregulation of some of these lncRNAs may play important roles in the chronic infection and inflammation that exists in the lungs of people with CF.
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Molloy K, Hersh CP, Morris VB, Carroll TP, O’Connor CA, Lasky-Su JA, Greene CM, O’Neill SJ, Silverman EK, McElvaney NG. Clarification of the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in α1-antitrypsin deficiency PiMZ heterozygotes. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2014; 189:419-27. [PMID: 24428606 PMCID: PMC5955067 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.201311-1984oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2013] [Accepted: 01/08/2014] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Severe α1-antitrypsin deficiency (typically PiZZ homozygosity) is associated with a significantly increased risk of airflow obstruction and emphysema but the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in PiMZ heterozygotes remains uncertain. OBJECTIVES This was a family-based study to determine the risk of COPD in PiMZ individuals. METHODS We compared 99 PiMM and 89 PiMZ nonindex subjects recruited from 51 index probands who were confirmed PiMZ heterozygotes and also had a diagnosis of COPD Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease stage II-IV. The primary outcome measures of interest were quantitative variables of pre- and post-bronchodilator FEV1/FVC ratio, FEV1 (liters), FEV1 (% predicted), forced expiratory flow midexpiratory phase (FEF25-75; liters per second), FEF25-75 (% predicted), and a categorical outcome of COPD. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS PiMZ heterozygotes compared with PiMM individuals had a reduced median (interquartile range) post-bronchodilator FEV1 (% predicted) (92.0 [75.6-105.4] vs. 98.6 [85.5-109.7]; P = 0.04), FEV1/FVC ratio (0.75 [0.66-0.79] vs. 0.78 [0.73-0.83]; P = 0.004), and FEF25-75 (% predicted) (63.84 [38.45-84.35] vs. 72.8 [55.5-97.7]; P = 0.0013) compared with PiMM individuals. This effect was abrogated in never-smoking and accentuated in ever-smoking PiMZ individuals. PiMZ heterozygosity was associated with an adjusted odds ratio for COPD of 5.18 (95% confidence interval, 1.27-21.15; P = 0.02) and this was higher (odds ratio, 10.65; 95% confidence interval, 2.17-52.29; P = 0.004) in ever-smoking individuals. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that PiMZ heterozygotes have significantly more airflow obstruction and COPD than PiMM individuals and cigarette smoke exposure exerts a significant modifier effect.
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McKiernan PJ, Cunningham O, Greene CM, Cryan SA. Targeting miRNA-based medicines to cystic fibrosis airway epithelial cells using nanotechnology. Int J Nanomedicine 2013; 8:3907-15. [PMID: 24143095 PMCID: PMC3798151 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s47551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited disorder characterized by chronic airway inflammation. microRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenous small RNAs which act on messenger (m) RNA at a post transcriptional level, and there is a growing understanding that altered expression of miRNA is involved in the CF phenotype. Modulation of miRNA by replacement using miRNA mimics (premiRs) presents a new therapeutic paradigm for CF, but effective and safe methods of delivery to the CF epithelium are limiting clinical translation. Herein, polymeric nanoparticles are investigated for delivery of miRNA mimics into CF airway epithelial cells, using miR-126 as a proof-of-concept premiR cargo to determine efficiency. Two polymers, polyethyleneimine (PEI) and chitosan, were used to prepare miRNA nanomedicines, characterized for their size, surface (zeta) potential, and RNA complexation efficiency, and screened for delivery and cytotoxicity in CFBE41o- (human F508del cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator bronchial epithelial) cells using a novel high content analysis method. RNA extraction was carried out 24 hours post transfection, and miR-126 and TOM1 (target of Myb1) expression (a validated miR-126 target) was assessed. Manufacture was optimized to produce small nanoparticles that effectively complexed miRNA. Using high content analysis, PEI-based nanoparticles were more effective than chitosan-based nanoparticles in facilitating uptake of miRNA into CFBE41o- cells and this was confirmed in miR-126 assays. PEI-premiR-126 nanoparticles at low nitrogen/phosphate (N/P) ratios resulted in significant knockdown of TOM1 in CFBE41o- cells, with the most significant reduction of 66% in TOM1 expression elicited at an N/P ratio of 1:1 while chitosan-based miR-126 nanomedicines failed to facilitate statistically significant knockdown of TOM1 and both nanoparticles appeared relatively nontoxic. miRNA nanomedicine uptake can be qualitatively and quantitatively assessed rapidly by high content analysis and is highly polymer-dependent but, interestingly, there is not a direct correlation between the levels of miRNA uptake and the downstream gene knockdown. Polymeric nanoparticles can deliver premiRs effectively to CFBEs in order to modulate gene expression but must be tailored specifically for miRNA delivery.
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Greene CM, Varley RB, Lawless MW. MicroRNAs and liver cancer associated with iron overload: Therapeutic targets unravelled. World J Gastroenterol 2013; 19:5212-5226. [PMID: 23983424 PMCID: PMC3752555 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v19.i32.5212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2013] [Revised: 04/22/2013] [Accepted: 05/20/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary liver cancer is a global disease that is on the increase. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for most primary liver cancers and has a notably low survival rate, largely attributable to late diagnosis, resistance to treatment, tumour recurrence and metastasis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) are regulatory RNAs that modulate protein synthesis. miRNAs are involved in several biological and pathological processes including the development and progression of HCC. Given the poor outcomes with current HCC treatments, miRNAs represent an important new target for therapeutic intervention. Several studies have demonstrated their role in HCC development and progression. While many risk factors underlie the development of HCC, one process commonly altered is iron homeostasis. Iron overload occurs in several liver diseases associated with the development of HCC including Hepatitis C infection and the importance of miRNAs in iron homeostasis and hepatic iron overload is well characterised. Aberrant miRNA expression in hepatic fibrosis and injury response have been reported, as have dysregulated miRNA expression patterns affecting cell cycle progression, evasion of apoptosis, invasion and metastasis. In 2009, miR-26a delivery was shown to prevent HCC progression, highlighting its therapeutic potential. Several studies have since investigated the clinical potential of other miRNAs with one drug, Miravirsen, currently in phase II clinical trials. miRNAs also have potential as biomarkers for the diagnosis of HCC and to evaluate treatment efficacy. Ongoing studies and clinical trials suggest miRNA-based treatments and diagnostic methods will have novel clinical applications for HCC in the coming years, yielding improved HCC survival rates and patient outcomes.
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Chotirmall SH, Al-Alawi M, Mirkovic B, Lavelle G, Logan PM, Greene CM, McElvaney NG. Aspergillus-associated airway disease, inflammation, and the innate immune response. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2013; 2013:723129. [PMID: 23971044 PMCID: PMC3736487 DOI: 10.1155/2013/723129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2013] [Accepted: 06/24/2013] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Aspergillus moulds exist ubiquitously as spores that are inhaled in large numbers daily. Whilst most are removed by anatomical barriers, disease may occur in certain circumstances. Depending on the underlying state of the human immune system, clinical consequences can ensue ranging from an excessive immune response during allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis to the formation of an aspergilloma in the immunocompetent state. The severest infections occur in those who are immunocompromised where invasive pulmonary aspergillosis results in high mortality rates. The diagnosis of Aspergillus-associated pulmonary disease is based on clinical, radiological, and immunological testing. An understanding of the innate and inflammatory consequences of exposure to Aspergillus species is critical in accounting for disease manifestations and preventing sequelae. The major components of the innate immune system involved in recognition and removal of the fungus include phagocytosis, antimicrobial peptide production, and recognition by pattern recognition receptors. The cytokine response is also critical facilitating cell-to-cell communication and promoting the initiation, maintenance, and resolution of the host response. In the following review, we discuss the above areas with a focus on the innate and inflammatory response to airway Aspergillus exposure and how these responses may be modulated for therapeutic benefit.
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Chotirmall SH, Greene CM, McElvaney NG. Immune, inflammatory and infectious consequences of estrogen in women with cystic fibrosis. Expert Rev Respir Med 2013; 6:573-5. [PMID: 23234443 DOI: 10.1586/ers.12.59] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Oglesby IK, Chotirmall SH, McElvaney NG, Greene CM. Regulation of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator by microRNA-145, -223, and -494 is altered in ΔF508 cystic fibrosis airway epithelium. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2013; 190:3354-62. [PMID: 23436935 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1202960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Expression of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) is altered in individuals with the ΔF508 CFTR mutation. We previously reported differential expression of microRNA (miRNA) in CF airway epithelium; however, the role of miRNA in regulation of CFTR expression here remains unexplored. In this study, we investigated the role of upregulated miRNAs in CFTR regulation in vivo in bronchial brushings from individuals homozygous or heterozygous for ΔF508 CFTR, validated our observations in vitro, and assessed the impact of defective chloride ion conductance, genotype, and colonization status on miRNA expression. miRNA target prediction was performed in silico, and expression of miRNA and target genes were measured by quantitative real-time PCR and/or Western blotting. Overexpression and inhibition studies were performed with pre-miRs or antimiRs, respectively, and a luciferase reporter gene was used to elucidate direct miRNA-target interactions. miR-145, miR-223, and miR-494 were upregulated in CF versus non-CF bronchial brushings and cell lines; in ΔF508 CFTR homozygotes versus heterozygotes; in subjects positive for P. aeruginosa; and in cells treated with a CFTR inhibitor or IL-1β. Reciprocal downregulation or upregulation of CFTR gene and/or protein expression was observed after miRNA manipulation and direct miRNA-target relationships demonstrated via a reporter system containing a wild type or mutated full-length CFTR 3' untranslated region. Increased expression of miR-145, miR-223, and miR-494 in vivo in bronchial epithelium of individuals carrying the ΔF508 CFTR mutation correlates with decreased CFTR expression. Defective CFTR function, Pseudomonas colonization, and inflammation may affect miRNA expression and contribute to the regulation of ΔF508 CFTR.
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Greene CM. MicroRNA Expression in Cystic Fibrosis Airway Epithelium. Biomolecules 2013; 3:157-67. [PMID: 24970162 PMCID: PMC4030891 DOI: 10.3390/biom3010157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2013] [Revised: 02/01/2013] [Accepted: 02/03/2013] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRs) have emerged as major regulators of the protein content of a cell. In the most part, miRs negatively regulate target mRNA expression, with sets of miRs predicted to regulate certain signaling pathways. The miR expression profile of endobronchial brushings is altered in people with cystic fibrosis (CF) compared to those without CF. How this impacts on CF has important implications for our growing understanding of the pathophysiology of CF lung disease and the development of new therapeutics to treat its pulmonary manifestations. Herein we discuss the potential consequences of altered miR expression in CF airway epithelium particularly with respect to cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) expression, innate immunity and toll-like receptor signalling and explore how best to exploit these changes for therapeutic benefit.
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Hassan T, Smith SGJ, Gaughan K, Oglesby IK, O'Neill S, McElvaney NG, Greene CM. Isolation and identification of cell-specific microRNAs targeting a messenger RNA using a biotinylated anti-sense oligonucleotide capture affinity technique. Nucleic Acids Res 2013; 41:e71. [PMID: 23325846 PMCID: PMC3616726 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gks1466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that regulate expression by translational repression or messenger RNA (mRNA) degradation. Although numerous bioinformatic prediction models exist to identify miRNA–mRNA interactions, experimental validation of bona fide interactions can be difficult and laborious. Few methods can comprehensively identify miRNAs that target a single mRNA. We have developed an experimental approach to search for miRNAs targeting any mRNA using a capture affinity assay involving a biotinylated DNA anti-sense oligonucleotide. This method identifies miRNAs targeting the full length of the mRNA. The method was tested using three separate mRNA targets: alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) mRNA, interleukin-8 mRNA and secretory leucoprotease inhibitor mRNA. AAT mRNA-specific and total miRNAs from three different cell lines (monocytic THP-1, bronchial epithelial 16HBE14o− and liver HepG2 cells) were profiled, and validation studies revealed that AAT mRNA-specific miRNAs functionally target the AAT mRNA in a cell-specific manner, providing the first evidence of innate miRNAs selectively targeting and modulating AAT mRNA expression. Interleukin-8 and secretory leucoprotease inhibitor mRNAs and their cognate miRNAs were also successfully captured using this approach. This is a simple and an efficient method to potentially identify miRNAs targeting sequences within the full length of a given mRNA transcript.
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