HMGB3 promotes the proliferation and metastasis of glioblastoma and is negatively regulated by miR-200b-3p and miR-200c-3p

IP3R1 dysregulation via mir-200c-3p/SSFA2 axis contributes to taxol resistance in head and neck cancer

Head and neck cancer (HNC) is the sixth most common malignancy worldwide. Although current modalities offer a wide variety of therapy choices, head and neck carcinoma has poor prognosis due to its diagnosis at later stages and development of resistance to current therapeutic tools. In the current study, we aimed at exploring the roles of miR-200c-3p during head and neck carcinogenesis and acquisition of taxol resistance. We analyzed miR-200c-3p levels in HNC clinical samples and cell lines using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and evaluated the effects of differential miR-200c-3p expression on cancer-related cellular phenotypes using in-vitro tools. We identified and characterized a direct target of miR-200c-3p using in-silico tools, luciferase and various in-vitro assays. We investigated potential involvement of miR-200c-3p/SSFA2 axis in taxol resistance in-vitro. We found miR-200c-3p expression as significantly downregulated in both HNC tissues and cells compared to corresponding controls. Ectopic miR-200c-3p expression in HNC cells significantly inhibited cancer-related phenotypes such as viability, clonogenicity, migration, and invasion. We, then, identified SSFA2 as a direct target of miR-200c-3p and demonstrated that overexpression of SSFA2 induced malignant phenotypes in HNC cells. Furthermore, we found reduced miR-200c-3p expression in parallel with overexpression of SSFA2 in taxol resistant HNC cells compared to parental sensitive cells. Both involved in intracellular cytoskeleton remodeling, we found that SSFA2 works collaboratively with IP3R1 to modulate resistance to taxol in HNC cells. When considered collectively, our results showed that miR-200c-3p acts as a tumor suppressor microRNA and targets SSFA2/IP3R1 axis to sensitize HNC cells to taxol.

Exosomal HMGB3 released by glioma cells confers the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome and pyroptosis in tumor-associated macrophages

BACKGROUND

Previous evidences has highlighted the pivotal role of NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3)-mediated inflammasomes and pyroptosis activation in driving tumor malignancy and shaping the tumor microenvironment. Herein, we aimed to elucidate the impact of high-mobility group box 3 (HMGB3) released in glioma-derived exosomes on macrophage infiltration in gliomas, NLRP3 inflammasome activation and polarization.

METHODS

Transcripts and protein levels of HMGB3, and cytokines associated with macrophage phenotypes and pyroptosis were assessed in glioma tissues and cell lines (U251, LN229, T98G, A172) using qRT-PCR and/or Western blot analysis. Exosomes secreted from LN229 and NHA cells were isolated via differential ultracentrifugation and characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), and analysis of exosome-related markers. PKH67 staining was employed to examine exosomes uptake by THP-1 differentiated macrophages. Flow cytometry was utilized to assess macrophage pyroptotic rates and polarization-related markers.

RESULTS

HMGB3 expression was elevated in glioma tissues, serum samples and tumor cell lines. Kaplan-Meier curves revealed a positive correlation between higher HMGB3 expression and poor overall survival and recurrence-free survival. Moreover, glioma tissues with increased HMGB3 expression exhibited significant upregulation of M2 macrophages markers (CD68, CD206, Arg1) and NLRP3 inflammasome components (NLRP3, IL-1β, ASC), suggesting that HMGB3 was closely associated with macrophage infiltration and NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Notably, HMGB3 was found to be enriched in glioma cell- secreted exosomes and could be internalized by macrophages. Knockdown of HMGB3 in glioma cell exosomes could restrain M2 macrophage polarization, NLRP3 inflammasome activation and pyroptosis.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggested that glioma cells secreted exosomal HMGB3 could facilitate macrophage M2 polarization, pyroptosis and inflammatory infiltration, indicating HMGB3 might be a poor prognosis factor for glioma.

EZH2 Promotes Glioma Cell Proliferation, Invasion, and Migration via Mir-142-3p/KCNQ1OT1/HMGB3 Axis : Running Title: EZH2 Promotes Glioma cell Malignant Behaviors

This study investigates the role and molecular mechanism of EZH2 in glioma cell proliferation, invasion, and migration. EZH2, miR-142-3p, lncRNA KCNQ1OT1, LIN28B, and HMGB3 expressions in glioma tissues and cells were determined using qRT-PCR or Western blot, followed by CCK-8 assay detection of cell viability, Transwell detection of invasion and migration, ChIP analysis of the enrichment of EZH2 and H3K27me3 on miR-142-3p promoter, dual-luciferase reporter assay and RIP validation of the binding of miR-142-3p-KCNQ1OT1 and KCNQ1OT1-LIN28B, and actinomycin D detection of KCNQ1OT1 and HMGB3 mRNA stability. A nude mouse xenograft model and a lung metastasis model were established. EZH2, KCNQ1OT1, LIN28B, and HMGB3 were highly expressed while miR-142-3p was poorly expressed in gliomas. EZH2 silencing restrained glioma cell proliferation, invasion, and migration. EZH2 repressed miR-142-3p expression by elevating the H3K27me3 level. miR-142-3p targeted KCNQ1OT1 expression, and KCNQ1OT1 bound to LIN28B to stabilize HMGB3 mRNA, thereby promoting its protein expression. EZH2 silencing depressed tumor growth and metastasis in nude mice via the miR-142-3p/KCNQ1OT1/HMGB3 axis. In conclusion, EZH2 curbed miR-142-3p expression, thereby relieving the inhibition of KCNQ1OT1 expression by miR-142-3p, enhancing the binding of KCNQ1OT1 to LIN28B, elevating HMGB3 expression, and ultimately accelerating glioma cell proliferation, invasion, and migration.

Proteogenomic characterization of small cell lung cancer identifies biological insights and subtype-specific therapeutic strategies

We performed comprehensive proteogenomic characterization of small cell lung cancer (SCLC) using paired tumors and adjacent lung tissues from 112 treatment-naive patients who underwent surgical resection. Integrated multi-omics analysis illustrated cancer biology downstream of genetic aberrations and highlighted oncogenic roles of FAT1 mutation, RB1 deletion, and chromosome 5q loss. Two prognostic biomarkers, HMGB3 and CASP10, were identified. Overexpression of HMGB3 promoted SCLC cell migration via transcriptional regulation of cell junction-related genes. Immune landscape characterization revealed an association between ZFHX3 mutation and high immune infiltration and underscored a potential immunosuppressive role of elevated DNA damage response activity via inhibition of the cGAS-STING pathway. Multi-omics clustering identified four subtypes with subtype-specific therapeutic vulnerabilities. Cell line and patient-derived xenograft-based drug tests validated the specific therapeutic responses predicted by multi-omics subtyping. This study provides a valuable resource as well as insights to better understand SCLC biology and improve clinical practice.

Identification of exosomal microRNA panel as diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for small cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) has an exceptionally poor prognosis; as most of the cases are initially diagnosed as extensive disease with hematogenous metastasis. Therefore, the early diagnosis of SCLC is very important and may improve its prognosis.

METHODS

To investigate the feasibility of early diagnosis of SCLC, we examined exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) present in serum obtained from patients with SCLC. First, exosomes were isolated in serum from patients with SCLC and healthy individuals and were characterized using particle size and protein markers. Additionally, miRNA array was performed to define SCLC-specific exosomal miRNAs. Second, the obtained miRNAs were further validated employing a large cohort. Finally, the ability to diagnose SCLC was estimated by area under the curve (AUC), and intracellular mRNA change patterns were verified through validated miRNAs.

RESULTS

From the miRNA array results, we selected 51-miRNAs based on p-values and top 10 differentially expressed genes, and 25-miRNAs were validated using quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. The 25-miRNAs were further validated employing a large cohort. Among them, 7-miRNAs showed significant differences. Furthermore, 6-miRNAs (miR-3565, miR-3124-5p, miR-200b-3p, miR-6515, miR-3126-3p and miR-9-5p) were up-regulated and 1-miRNA (miR-92b-5p) was down-regulated. The AUC value of each miRNA sets between 0.64 and 0.76, however the combined application of 3-miRNAs (miR-200b-3p, miR-3124-5p and miR-92b-5p) remarkably improved the diagnostic value (AUC = 0.93). Gene ontology analysis revealed that the 3-miRNA panel is linked to various oncogene pathways and nervous system development. When the 3-miRNAs were introduced to cells, the resulting changes in total mRNA expression strongly indicated the presence of lung diseases, including lung cancer. In addition, the 3-miRNA panel was significantly associated with a poorer prognosis, although individual miRNAs have not been validated as prognostic markers.

CONCLUSION

Our study identified SCLC-specific exosomal miRNAs, and the 3-miRNAs panel (miR-200b-3p, miR-3124-5p and miR-92b-5p) may serve as a diagnostic and prognostic marker for SCLC.

The interplay of signaling pathways and miRNAs in the pathogenesis and targeted therapy of esophageal cancer

Globally, esophageal cancer (EC) is the 6th leading cause of cancer-related deaths and the second deadliest gastrointestinal cancer. Multiple genetic and epigenetic factors, such as microRNAs (miRNAs), influence its onset and progression. miRNAs are short nucleic acid molecules that can regulate multiple cellular processes by regulating gene expression. Therefore, EC initiation, progression, apoptosis evasions, invasion capacity, promotion, angiogenesis, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) enhancement are associated with miRNA expression dysregulation. Wnt/-catenin signaling, Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)/P-gp, phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT/c-Myc, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling are crucial pathways in EC that are controlled by miRNAs. This review was conducted to provide an up-to-date assessment of the role of microRNAs in EC pathogenesis and their modulatory effects on responses to various EC treatment modalities.

Exosomal miR-767 from senescent endothelial-derived accelerating skin fibroblasts aging via inhibiting TAB1

Skin aging is a complicated physiological process, and microRNA-mediated regulation has been shown to contribute to this process. Exosomes mediate intercellular communication through miRNAs, mRNAs and proteins, and participate in many physiological and pathological processes. Vascular endothelial cell-derived exosomes have been confirmed to be involved in the development of many diseases, however, their effects on skin aging have not been reported. In this study, senescent endothelial cells could regulate skin fibroblast functions and promote cell senescence through exosomal pathway. miR-767 was highly expressed in senescent vascular endothelial cells and their exosomes, and miR-767 is also upregulated in skin fibroblasts after treatment with exosomes derived from senescent vascular endothelial cells. In addition, transfection with miR-767 mimic promoted senescence of skin fibroblasts, while transfection with miR-767 inhibitor reversed the effect of D-galactose. Double luciferase analysis confirmed that TAB1 was a direct target gene of miR-767. Furthermore, miR-767 expression was increased and TAB1 expression was decreased in D-galactose induced aging mice. In mice that overexpressed miR-767, HE staining showed thinning of dermis and senescence appearance. In conclusion, senescent vascular endothelial cell-derived exosome mediated miR-767 regulates skin fibroblasts through the exosome pathway. Our study reveals the role of vascular endothelial cell-derived exosomes in aging in the skin microenvironment and contributes to the discovery of new targets for delaying senescence.

Expression, tumor immune infiltration, and prognostic impact of HMGs in gastric cancer

Background

In the past decade, considerable research efforts on gastric cancer (GC) have been expended, however, little advancement has been made owing to the lack of effective biomarkers and treatment options. Herein, we aimed to examine the levels of expression, mutations, and clinical relevance of HMGs in GC to provide sufficient scientific evidence for clinical decision-making and risk management.

Methods

GC samples were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). University of California Santa Cruz (UCSC) XENA, Human Protein Atlas (HPA), Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA), Kaplan-Meier Plotter, cBioPortal, GeneMANIA, STRING, LinkedOmics, and DAVID databases were employed. The "ggplot2" package in the R software (×64 3.6.3) was used to thoroughly analyze the effects of HMGs. qRT-PCR was performed to assess HMG levels in GC cell lines.

Results

A total of 375 GC tissues and 32 paraneoplastic tissues were analyzed. The levels of HMGA1, HMGA2, HMGB1, HMGB2, HMGB3, HMGN1, HMGN2, and HMGN4 expression were increased in GC tissues relative to normal gastric tissues. HMGA1, HMGA2, HMGB1, HMGB2, and HMGB3 were highly expressed in GC cell lines. The OS was significantly different in the group showing low expressions of HMGA1, HMGA2, HMGB1, HMGB2, HMGB3, HMGN2, HMGN3, and HMGN5. There was a significant difference in RFS between the groups with low HMGA2, HMGB3, and high HMGN2 expression. The levels of HMGA2, HMGB3, and HMGN1 had a higher accuracy for prediction to distinguish GC from normal tissues (AUC value > 0.9). HMGs were tightly associated with immune infiltration and tumor immune escape and antitumor immunity most likely participates in HMG-mediated oncogenesis in GC. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses showed that HMGs played a vital role in the cell cycle pathway.

Conclusions

Our results strongly suggest a vital role of HMGs in GC. HMGA2 and HMGB3 could be potential markers for prognostic prediction and treatment targets for GC by interrupting the cell cycle pathway. Our findings might provide renewed perspectives for the selection of prognostic biomarkers among HMGs in GC and may contribute to the determination of the optimal strategy for the treatment of these patients.

Longitudinal transcriptome analysis of cattle infected with Theileria parva

The apicomplexan cattle parasite Theileria parva is a major barrier to improving the livelihoods of smallholder farmers in Africa, killing over one million cattle on the continent each year. Although exotic breeds not native to Africa are highly susceptible to the disease, previous studies have illustrated that such breeds often show innate tolerance to infection by the parasite. The mechanisms underlying this tolerance remain largely unclear. To better understand the host response to T. parva infection we characterised the transcriptional response over 15 days in tolerant and susceptible cattle (n = 29) naturally exposed to the parasite. We identify key genes and pathways activated in response to infection as well as, importantly, several genes differentially expressed between the animals that ultimately survived or succumbed to infection. These include genes linked to key cell proliferation and infection pathways. Furthermore, we identify response expression quantitative trait loci containing genetic variants whose impact on the expression level of nearby genes changes in response to the infection. These therefore provide an indication of the genetic basis of differential host responses. Together these results provide a comprehensive analysis of the host transcriptional response to this under-studied pathogen, providing clues as to the mechanisms underlying natural tolerance to the disease.

Classification prediction of early pulmonary nodes based on weighted gene correlation network analysis and machine learning

OBJECTIVE

To use weighted gene correlation network analysis (WGCNA) and machine learning algorithm to predict classification of early pulmonary nodes with public databases.

METHODS

The expression data and clinical data of lung cancer patients were firstly extracted from public database (GTEx and TCGA) to study the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). The intersection of three R packages (Dseq2, Limma, EdgeR) methods were selected as candidate DEGs for further study. WGCNA was used to obtain relevant modules and key genes of lung cancer classification, GO and KEGG enrichment analysis was performed. The model was built using two machine learning methods, Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression and tumor classification was also predicted with extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) algorithm.

RESULTS

DEGs analysis revealed that there were 1306 LUAD genes. WGCNA module analysis showed that a total of 116 genes were significantly related to classification, and module genes were mainly related to 14 KEGG pathways. The machine learning algorithm identified 10 target genes by LASSO regression analysis of differential genes, and 18 genes were identified by XGBoost model. A total of 6 genes were found from the intersection of the above methods as classification signatures of early pulmonary nodules, including "HMGB3" "ARHGAP6" "TCF21" "FCN3" "COL6A6" "GOLM1".

CONCLUSION

Using DEGs analysis, WGCNA method and machine learning algorithm, six gene signatures related to early stage of LUAD, which can assist clinicians in disease classification prediction.

HMGB3 is a Potential Therapeutic Target by Affecting the Migration and Proliferation of Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is one of the common malignant tumors in the digestive system, with high incidence and mortality rate. Therefore, there is an urgent need to identify and develop new molecular targets for colorectal cancer treatment. Previous studies have pointed out the important role of HMGB3 in tumors, and how it works in colorectal cancer needs to be studied in depth. In this study, we found that HMGB3 was highly expressed in COAD in the cBioPortal and GEPIA2 databases. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that compared with patients with lower HMGB3 levels, patients with higher HMGB3 levels had poorer OS (p = 0.001). We also found a correlation between HMGB3 expression and immune infiltration of CRC. To investigate the mechanism of HMGB3 knockdown-mediated colorectal cancer inhibition, we detected a downregulation of N-cadherin, Vimentin and β-catenin proteins after knockdown of HMGB3. Taken together, HMGB3 can be an effective target for CRC treatment in the future, and we have reason to believe that HMGB3 will be of greater value in more tumors in the near future.

Potential of the miR-200 Family as a Target for Developing Anti-Cancer Therapeutics

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs (18–24 nucleotides) that play significant roles in cell proliferation, development, invasion, cancer development, cancer progression, and anti-cancer drug resistance. miRNAs target multiple genes and play diverse roles. miRNAs can bind to the 3′UTR of target genes and inhibit translation or promote the degradation of target genes. miR-200 family miRNAs mostly act as tumor suppressors and are commonly decreased in cancer. The miR-200 family has been reported as a valuable diagnostic and prognostic marker. This review discusses the clinical value of the miR-200 family, focusing on the role of the miR-200 family in the development of cancer and anti-cancer drug resistance. This review also provides an overview of the factors that regulate the expression of the miR-200 family, targets of miR-200 family miRNAs, and the mechanism of anti-cancer drug resistance regulated by the miR-200 family.

Regulatory functions of miR‑200b‑3p in tumor development (Review)

MicroRNAs (miRNAs/miRs), non‑coding single‑stranded RNAs of length 18‑24 nucleotides, can modulate gene expression through post‑transcriptional control. As such, they can influence tumor proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, metastasis as well as chemotherapy resistance by regulating certain downstream genes. In this context, miR‑200b‑3p, one particular member of the miR‑200 family, possesses the ability to suppress tumor progression. However, many studies have suggested that, in certain cases, this miRNA may also promote the development of some tumors due to differences in the microenvironments and molecular backgrounds of different cancers. This review summarizes previous studies on the involvement of miR‑200b‑3p in tumors, including the underlying mechanism.

MicroRNA-200b-3p restrains gastric cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion via C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 12/CXC chemokine receptor 7 axis

This study was conducted to investigate the impact of microRNA (miR)-200b-3p on viability, migration, and invasion of gastric cancer (GC) cells and its mechanism. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was conducted to measure miR-200b-3p expression in GC tissues and cells; besides, the relationship between miR-200b-3p expression and overall survival time (OS) was analyzed with OncomiR database; cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), colony formation assay, flow cytometry, scratch healing assay, and Transwell assay were performed to detect the proliferation, cell cycle progression, migration, and invasion of GC cells; a lung metastasis model in nude mice was used to examine the effect of miR-200b-3p on the metastasis of GC cells in vivo; the interplay between miR-200b-3p and C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12) mRNA 3’ UTR was predicted by bioinformatics and verified with a dual-luciferase reporter gene assay; besides, the expression of CXCL12 and CXC chemokine receptor 7 (CXCR7) was probed by Western blot. It was found that miR-200b-3p expression was down-regulated in GC tissues, which was remarkably associated with the lymph node metastasis and decrease of differentiation of GC; transfection with miR-200b-3p mimics restrained the growth, migration, and invasion of GC cells in vitro, induced cell cycle arrest, and inhibited CXCL12 and CXCR7 expression levels; transfection of miR-200b-3p inhibitors worked oppositely in vitro and promoted lung metastasis in vivo. CXCL12 was confirmed as the downstream target of miR-200b-3p and was negatively modulated by miR-200b-3p. In conclusion, miR-200b-3p inhibited GC progression via regulating CXCL12/CXCR7 axis.

Circular RNAs and glioblastoma multiforme: focus on molecular mechanisms

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), as a deadly and almost incurable brain cancer, is the most invasive form of CNS tumors that affects both children and adult population. It accounts for approximately half of all primary brain tumors. Despite the remarkable advances in neurosurgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapeutic approaches, cell heterogeneity and numerous genetic alterations in cell cycle control, cell growth, apoptosis, and cell invasion, result in an undesirable resistance to therapeutic strategies; thereby, the median survival duration for GBM patients is unfortunately still less than two years. Identifying new therapeutics and employing the combination therapies may be considered as wonderful strategies against the GBM. In this regard, circular RNAs (circRNAs), as tumor inhibiting and/or stimulating RNA molecules, can regulate the cancer-developing processes, including cell proliferation, cell apoptosis, invasion, and chemoresistance. Hereupon, these molecules have been introduced as potentially effective therapeutic targets to defeat GBM. The current study aims to investigate the fundamental molecular and cellular mechanisms in association with circRNAs involved in GBM pathogenesis. Among multiple mechanisms, the PI3K/Akt/mTOR, Wnt/β-catenin, and MAPK signaling, angiogenic processes, and metastatic pathways will be thoroughly discussed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the role of circRNAs in pathophysiology of GBM. Video Abstract.

MiR-200c-3p inhibits LPS-induced M1 polarization of BV2 cells by targeting RIP2

BACKGROUND

Microglia are important immune cells, which can be induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) into M1 phenotype that express pro-inflammatory cytokines. Some studies have shown that microRNAs play critical roles in microglial activation.

OBJECTIVE

This study was designed to investigate the role of miR-200c-3p in regulating inflammatory responses of LPS-treated BV2 cells.

METHODS

The expression of miR-200c-3p in BV2 cells was detected by real-time PCR. Receptor-interacting protein 2 (RIP2) was predicted as a target gene of miR-200c-3p. Their relationship was verified by dual-luciferase reporter assay. The function of miR-200c-3p and RIP2 in microglial polarization and NF-κB signaling was further evaluated.

RESULTS

LPS treatment reduced miR-200c-3p expression in a dose-dependent and time-dependent manner in BV2 cells. LPS treatment increased the expression of M1 phenotype markers inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and major histocompatibility complex class (MHC)-II, promoted the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and enhanced the nuclear translocation and phosphorylation of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) p65. Reversely, miR-200c-3p mimics down-regulated the levels of these inflammatory factors. Furthermore, RIP2 was identified to be a direct target of miR-200c-3p. RIP2 knockdown had a similar effect to miR-200c-3p mimics. Overexpression of RIP2 eliminated the inhibitory effect of miR-200c-3p on LPS-induced M1 polarization and NF-κB activation in BV2 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

MiR-200c-3p mimics suppressed LPS-induced microglial M1 polarization and NF-κB activation by targeting RIP2. MiR-200c-3p/RIP2 might be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of neuroinflammation-associated diseases.

gga-miR-200b-3p promotes avian leukosis virus subgroup J replication via targeting dual-specificity phosphatase 1

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) involved host-virus interaction, affecting the replication or pathogenesis of several viruses. Although avian leukosis virus subgroup J (ALV-J) has been one of the most studied avian viruses, the effects of various host miRNAs on ALV-J infection and its underlying molecular mechanisms are still unclear. Here, we reported that gga-miR-200b-3p acts as a positive host factor enhancing ALV-J replication. We found that gga-miR-200b-3p was increased in response to ALV-J infection in host cells, and that gga-miR-200b-3p effectively enhanced ALV-J replication via targeting host protein dual-specificity phosphatase 1 (DUSP1). Collectively, these findings highlight a crucial role of gga-miR-200b-3p in ALV-J replication.

LncRNA DLGAP1-AS1 accelerates glioblastoma cell proliferation through targeting miR-515-5p/ROCK1/NFE2L1 axis and activating Wnt signaling pathway

INTRODUCTION

Glioblastoma (GBM), the primary malignant tumor in the central nervous system, features high aggressiveness and mortality. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) can exert the crucial function in regulating various human diseases, including GBM. However, the function and mechanism of lncRNA DLGAP1 antisense RNA 1 (DLGAP1-AS1) in GBM remain still unknown.

METHODS

DLGAP1-AS1 expression in GBM cells was detected by RT-qPCR. Functional assays were conducted to determine GBM cell proliferation and apoptosis. RIP, RNA pull down, and luciferase reporter assay were applied for measuring the interplay of DLGAP1-AS1 with other RNAs.

RESULTS

DLGAP1-AS1 was distinctly upregulated in GBM cells. DLGAP1-AS1 depletion inhibited cell proliferation, but induced apoptosis. MiR-515-5p could be sponged by DLGAP1-AS1 in GBM cells and to repress cell proliferation in GBM. Further, Rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein kinase 1 (ROCK1) and Nuclear factor erythroid-2 like 1 (NFE2L1) were confirmed as the target gene of miR-515-5p. Wnt signaling pathway could be activated by DLGAP1-AS1 via regulating ROCK1 and NFE2L1 expression. Rescue assays proved that overexpression of both ROCK1 and NFE2L1 could totally reverse the inhibitory effect of silencing DLGAP1-AS1 on GBM cell proliferation.

CONCLUSION

LncRNA DLGAP1-AS1 accelerated cell proliferation in GBM via targeting miR-515-5p/ROCK1/NFE2L1 axis and activating Wnt signaling pathway.

Altered expression of microRNAs in the rat diaphragm in a model of ventilator-induced diaphragm dysfunction after controlled mechanical ventilation

BACKGROUND

Ventilator-induced diaphragm dysfunction (VIDD) is a common complication of life support by mechanical ventilation observed in critical patients in clinical practice and may predispose patients to severe complications such as ventilator-associated pneumonia or ventilator discontinuation failure. To date, the alterations in microRNA (miRNA) expression in the rat diaphragm in a VIDD model have not been elucidated. This study was designed to identify these alterations in expression.

RESULTS

Adult male Wistar rats received conventional controlled mechanical ventilation (CMV) or breathed spontaneously for 12 h. Then, their diaphragm tissues were collected for RNA extraction. The miRNA expression alterations in diaphragm tissue were investigated by high-throughput microRNA-sequencing (miRNA-seq). For targeted mRNA functional analysis, gene ontology (GO) analyses and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were subsequently conducted. qRT-PCR validation and luciferase reporter assays were performed. We successfully constructed a model of ventilator-induced diaphragm dysfunction and identified 38 significantly differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs, among which 22 miRNAs were upregulated and 16 were downregulated. GO analyses identified functional genes, and KEGG pathway analyses revealed the signaling pathways that were most highly correlated, which were the MAPK pathway, FoxO pathway and Autophagy-animal. Luciferase reporter assays showed that STAT3 was a direct target of both miR-92a-1-5p and miR-874-3p and that Trim63 was a direct target of miR-3571.

CONCLUSIONS

The current research supplied novel perspectives on miRNAs in the diaphragm, which may not only be implicated in diaphragm dysfunction pathogenesis but could also be considered as therapeutic targets in diaphragm dysfunction.

MiR-200c-3p aggravates gastric cell carcinoma via KLF6

Background

Gastric cell carcinoma (GCC) is a common and high-incidence malignant gastrointestinal cancer that seriously threatens human life and safety. Evidences suggest that microRNAs (miRNAs) exhibit an essential role in regulating the occurrence and development of GCC, while the effects and possible mechanisms remain to be further explored.

Objective

This study was designed to explore whether miR-200c-3p exerted its functional role in the growth and metastasis of GCC, and investigate the possible mechanisms.

Methods

The expression levels of miR-200c-3p in GCC tissues and cell lines were detected by qRT-PCR analysis. The functional role of miR-200c-3p in the viability, proliferation, migration and invasion of GCC cells were evaluated by CCK-8, EdU, wound healing and Transwell assays. In addition, the candidate targets of miR-200c-3p was predicted and confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter assay. Moreover, the relationship between miR-200c-3p and target (Krüppel like factor 6, KLF6) was assessed by qRT-PCR and western blot assays. Besides, the expression levels of KLF6 in GCC cells were determined by qRT-PCR and western blot assays. Furthermore, the role of KLF6 in the viability, proliferation, migration and invasion of GCC cells mediated with miR-200c-3p mimics was evaluated by CCK-8, EdU, wound healing and Transwell assays.

Results

In the present study, a new tumor promoting function of miR-200c-3p was disclosed in GCC. We found that the expression of miR-200c-3p was obviously increased in clinic GCC tissues and cell lines. In addition, down-regulation of miR-200c-3p suppressed cell viability, proliferation, migration, and invasion in GCC cells. Moreover, KLF6 was verified as a direct target of miR-200c-3p by binding its 3’-UTR. Additionally, KLF6 was remarkably decreased and was negatively associated with the miR-200c-3p expression in GCC cell lines. Furthermore, over-expression of KLF6 retarded the effects of miR-200c-3p on the growth and metastasis of GCC cell lines.

Conclusions

MiR-200c-3p potentially played a tumor-promoting role in the occurrence and development of GCC, which may be achieved by targeting KLF6.

Graphic abstract

LncRNA ORLNC1 Promotes Bone Marrow Mesenchyml Stem Cell Pyroptosis Induced by Advanced Glycation End Production by Targeting miR-200b-3p/Foxo3 Pathway

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) are a type of adult stem cells that originate from the mesoderm and have important roles in the body because of their self-renewal and multidirectional differentiation potential. Now it has been proved that BMSCs are closely related to the development of osteoporosis (OP). There is growing evidence that lncRNAs are involved in regulating the pyroptosis of BMSCs. And advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) have been recognized as NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activators. In this study, we aimed to explore the role of lncRNA ORLNC1 (NONMMUT016106.2) on the pyroptosis of BMSCs under CML (Nε-(carboxymethyl) lysine, the most common AGEs) treatment and its specific molecular mechanisms. Our study revealed that CML treatment promoted pyroptosis of BMSCs and upregulated ORLNC1 expression. As a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) of miR-200b-3p, the level of ORLNC1 was negatively correlated with miR-200b-3p. Foxo3 was a target of miR-200b-3p and ORLNC1 promoted BMSCs pyroptosis induced by CML through targeting miR-200b-3p/Foxo3 pathway.

Circ_CLIP2 promotes glioma progression through targeting the miR-195-5p/HMGB3 axis

BACKGROUND

Circular RNA (circRNA) has been demonstrated to play key roles in regulating glioma progression. Understanding the regulatory mechanism of circRNA in glioma is vital to reveal the pathogenesis of glioma and develop novel therapeutic strategies. Therefore, our study focuses on the role and underlying mechanism of Circ_CLIP2 in glioma.

METHODS

The expression of Circ_CLIP2, miR-195-5p and HMGB3 in glioma cells and tissues were analyzed using qRT-PCR. Cell proliferation was determined with colony formation and MTT assays. Cell cycle and apoptosis were examined by flow cytometry. Western blot was conducted for analyzing HMGB3, PCNA, Bax, Bcl-2, cleaved-caspase 3, Wnt-1 and β-catenin. Dual-luciferase reporter assay was measured to investigate the interaction among Circ_CLIP2, miR-195-5p and HMGB3.

RESULTS

The expression of Circ_CLIP2 and HMGB3 were increased while miR-195-5p was down-regulated in glioma cells and patients. Silencing of Circ_CLIP2 inhibited cell proliferation, enhanced cell apoptosis and inhibited the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Circ_CLIP2 suppressed miR-195-5p expression by directly sponging miR-195-5p. MiR-195-5p inhibited HMGB3 expression via directly targeting HMGB3. Knockdown of miR-195-5p facilitated cell proliferation, inhibited cell apoptosis and activated Wnt/β-catenin signaling, which were reversed by silencing of HMGB3.

CONCLUSION

Knockdown of Circ_CLIP2 suppresses glioma progression by targeting miR-195-5p/HMGB3 thus inhibiting Wnt/β-catenin signaling. This study may provide potential therapeutic targets against glioma.

The Hypoxia-Long Noncoding RNA Interaction in Solid Cancers

Hypoxia is one of the representative microenvironment features in cancer and is considered to be associated with the dismal prognosis of patients. Hypoxia-driven cellular pathways are largely regulated by hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) and notably exert influence on the hallmarks of cancer, such as stemness, angiogenesis, invasion, metastasis, and the resistance towards apoptotic cell death and therapeutic resistance; therefore, hypoxia has been considered as a potential hurdle for cancer therapy. Growing evidence has demonstrated that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are dysregulated in cancer and take part in gene regulatory networks owing to their various modes of action through interacting with proteins and microRNAs. In this review, we focus attention on the relationship between hypoxia/HIFs and lncRNAs, in company with the possibility of lncRNAs as candidate molecules for controlling cancer.

Down-regulation of SNHG16 alleviates the acute lung injury in sepsis rats through miR-128-3p/HMGB3 axis

Background

Long noncoding RNAs contribute to various inflammatory diseases, including sepsis. We explore the role of small nucleolar RNA host gene 16 (SNHG16) in sepsis-mediated acute lung injury (ALI) and inflammation.

Methods

A sepsis-induced ALI rat model was constructed by the cecal ligation and perforation method. The profiles of SNHG16, miR-128-3p, and high-mobility group box 3 (HMGB3) were monitored by quantitative reverse transcription PCR and Western blot. The pathologic changes of lung tissues were evaluated by Hematoxylin–Eosin staining, immunohistochemistry, and dry and wet method. Meanwhile, the pro-inflammatory factors and proteins were determined by ELISA and Western blot. In contrast, a sepsis model in BEAS-2B was induced with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to verify the effects of SNHG16/miR-128-3p/HMGB3 on lung epithelial cell viability and apoptosis.

Results

As a result, SNHG16 and HMGB3 were up-regulated, while miR-128-3p was down-regulated in sepsis-induced ALI both in vivo and in vitro. Inhibiting SNHG16 reduced the apoptosis and inflammation in the sepsis-induced ALI model. Overexpressing SNHG16 promoted LPS-mediated lung epithelial apoptosis and inhibited cell viability and inflammation, while miR-128-3p had the opposite effects. Mechanistically, SNHG16 targeted miR-128-3p and attenuated its expression, while miR-128-3p targeted the 3′ untranslated region of HMGB3.

Conclusions

Overall, down-regulating SNHG16 alleviated the sepsis-mediated ALI by regulating miR-128-3p/HMGB3.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12890-021-01552-0.

Baicalin attenuates LPS-induced alveolar type II epithelial cell A549 injury by attenuation of the FSTL1 signaling pathway via increasing miR-200b-3p expression

In China, baicalin is the main active component of Scutellaria baicalensis, which has been used in the treatment of inflammation-related diseases, such as inflammation-induced acute lung injury. However, its specific mechanism remains unclear. This study examined the protective effect of baicalin on LPS-induced inflammation injury of alveolar epithelial cell line A549 and explored its protective mechanism. Compared with the LPS-induced group, the proliferation inhibition rates of alveolar type II epithelial cell line A549 intervened by different concentrations of baicalin decreased significantly, as did the levels of inflammatory factors IL-6, IL-1β, prostaglandin 2 and TNF-α in the supernatant. The expression levels of inflammatory proteins inducible NO synthase (iNOS), NF-κB65, phosphorylated ERK (p-ERK1/2), and phosphorylated c-Jun N-terminal kinase (p-JNK1) significantly decreased, as did the protein expression of follistatin-like protein 1 (FSTL1). In contrast, expression of miR-200b-3p significantly increased in a dose-dependent manner. These results suggested that baicalin could significantly inhibit the expression of inflammation-related proteins and improve LPS-induced inflammatory injury in alveolar type II epithelial cells. The mechanism may be related to the inhibition of ERK/JNK inflammatory pathway activation by increasing the expression of miR-200b-3p. Thus, FSTL1 is the regulatory target of miR-200b-3p.

The role of microRNAs in epithelial to mesenchymal transition and cancers; focusing on mir-200 family

Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a process associated with cancer malignancy and metastases. Cells undergoing EMT lose their epithelial phenotype and acquire mesenchymal phenotype. This process is accompanied by several molecular changes such as decrease of E-cadherin and increase of N-cadherin which is called the "cadherin swich". MicroRNAs (miRNAs, miRs) are small non-coding RNAs having ability to regulate genes post-transcriptionally. Nowadays they are believed to take part in multiple physiological and pathological processes including cancer development. Comparison between TargetScan7 (www.targetscan.org) results for miR-200b and metanalysis of genes involved in EMT showed that miR-200b has a potential binding site in 60 genes that are involved in EMT (the majority of them were associated with mesenchymal phenotype). Our review summarizes literature findings contributing to experimentally proven interactions between miR-200b and genes involved in EMT process including cell receptors, signaling pathways, cell cycle or cell adhesion. The results of those interactions indicate that miR-200b may have an inhibitory impact on EMT or even in selected cases is able to restore epithelial phenotype.

Differential expression and role of miR-200 family in multiple tumors

microRNA (miRNA) can maintain the homeostasis of the human by participating in the regulation of cell proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation, and metabolism. During the entire stage of tumorigenesis, miRNA can maintain the heterogeneity of cancer stem cells by regulating the formation and metastasis of the tumor, which leads to chemotherapy resistance. miR-200 family consists of five members, which can regulate the proliferation, invasion, and migration of cancer cells by inhibiting the transcription of downstream genes (including zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 and 2, E-cadherin, N-cadherin, transforming growth factor-β, and cancer stem cell related-proteins). Meanwhile, Long non-coding RNA can bind to miR-200s to regulate the proliferation and apoptosis of cancer cells. Besides, the expression of the miR-200 family can affect the mechanism of chemotherapy resistance.

Screening of Potential Key Genes Related to Tubal Factor Infertility Based on Competitive Endogenous RNA Network

Background: The molecular biological mechanism of tubal factor infertility (TFI) is still unclear. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are considered a major part of the competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network and have attracted growing attention. Our study aimed to explore the regulatory mechanisms of lncRNAs associated with TFI and screen potential key genes related to TFI. Materials and Methods: Differentially expressed lncRNAs (DELs) and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified by comparing normal and TFI expression patterns of lncRNAs and mRNAs in eutopic endometrial tissues obtained from 3 normal and 3 TFI patients during implantation. These data were used to develop a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of DEGs using the STRING online software. The identified DELs and DEGs were then used to construct a ceRNA network, and the Network Analyzer Tool Kit in Cytoscape was used to analyze the ceRNA network topology and stability. Finally, the overlapping genes present in both the ceRNA and PPI networks were selected as the potential key genes related to TFI. Results: Ninety-six DEGs (59 up and 37 down) and 45 DELs (28 up and 17 down) were identified. Thirty-four DEGs were mapped in a PPI network. A ceRNA network, including two lncRNAs (LINC00305 and DLX6-AS1), four microRNAs (hsa-miR-20b-5p, hsa-miR-17-5p, hsa-miR-107, and hsa-miR-24-3p), and four mRNAs (MAP3K3, HMGB3, FAM103A1, and TMEM209), was successfully constructed. Importantly, a potential key gene (TMEM209) related to TFI was identified. Conclusion: The construction of a ceRNA network related to TFI may help elucidate the regulatory mechanism by which genes and lncRNAs function as ceRNA networks. Importantly, TMEM209 may be further evaluated as potential therapeutic targets for TFI.

LncRNA NOP14-AS1 Promotes Tongue Squamous Cell Carcinoma Progression by Targeting MicroRNA-665/HMGB3 Axis

Purpose

The expression profile, clinical effects, and detailed roles of NOP14 antisense RNA 1 (NOP14-AS1) in tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) remain ambiguous and need to be further explored. Thus, this work was initiated to offer further solid evidence regarding the expression and roles of NOP14-AS1 in TSCC. Furthermore, additional efforts were exerted to reveal the molecular events by which NOP14-AS1 affects the malignant behaviours of TSCC.

Methods

NOP14-AS1 expression was detected in TSCC tissues and cell lines using quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, flow cytometric analysis, Transwell migration and invasion assays, and xenograft tumor model analysis were performed to assess the malignant biological behaviors of TSCC cells after NOP14-AS1 depletion. Mechanistic studies were performed using bioinformatics analysis, luciferase reporter assay, RNA immunoprecipitation, and rescue experiments.

Results

NOP14-AS1 upregulation was identified in TSCC tissues and cell lines. Patients with TSCC exhibiting a high NOP14-AS1 expression faced shorter overall survival than those with a low NOP14-AS1 expression. Functionally, NOP14-AS1 depletion facilitated apoptosis and impeded cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in TSCC. In vivo, the growth of TSCC cells was hindered by NOP14-AS1 depletion. Mechanically, NOP14-AS1 functioned as a competing endogenous RNA by sponging microRNA-665 (miR-665), thereby overexpressing the target high mobility group box 3 (HMGB3) of miR-665. Lastly, rescue experiments confirmed that the introduction of HMGB3 overexpression plasmid or miR-665 inhibitor could abrogate the inhibition of aggressive phenotypes triggered by NOP14-AS1 knockdown.

Conclusion

NOP14-AS1 executed pro-oncogenic activities in TSCC cells by targeting the miR-665/HMGB3 axis. The NOP14-AS1/miR-665/HMGB pathway may be a valuable prognostic indicator and therapeutic target for preventing TSCC.

Downregulation of long non-protein coding RNA MVIH impairs glioblastoma cell proliferation and invasion through an miR-302a-dependent mechanism

Glioblastoma (GB) is the most frequent and malignant type of brain tumor, for which no effective therapy exists. The high proliferative and invasive nature of GB, as well as its acquired resistance to chemotherapy, makes this type of cancer extremely lethal shortly after diagnosis. Long non-protein coding RNAs (lncRNA) are a class of regulatory RNAs whose levels can be dysregulated in the context of diseases, unbalancing several physiological processes. The lncRNA associated with microvascular invasion in hepatocellular carcinoma (lncRNA-MVIH), overexpressed in several cancers, was described to co-precipitate with phosphoglycerate kinase 1 (PGK1), preventing secretion of this enzyme to the extracellular environment and promoting cell migration and invasion. We hypothesized that, by silencing the expression of lncRNA-MVIH, the secretion of PGK1 would increase, reducing GB cell migration and invasion capabilities. We observed that lncRNA-MVIH silencing in human GB cells significantly decreased glycolysis, cell growth, migration, and invasion and sensitized GB cells to cediranib. However, no increase in extracellular PGK1 was observed as a consequence of lncRNA-MVIH silencing, and therefore, we investigated the possibility of a mechanism of miRNA sponge of lncRNA-MVIH being in place. We found that the levels of miR-302a loaded onto RISC increased in GB cells after lncRNA-MVIH silencing, with the consequent downregulation of several miR-302a molecular targets. Our findings suggest a new mechanism of action of lncRNA-MVIH as a sponge of miR-302a. We suggest that lncRNA-MVIH knockdown may be a promising strategy to address GB invasiveness and chemoresistance, holding potential towards its future application in a clinical context.

The role of high mobility group protein B3 (HMGB3) in tumor proliferation and drug resistance

The high mobility group protein B (HMGB) family (including HMGB1, HMGB2, HMGB3, and HMGB4) can regulate the mechanisms of DNA replication, transcription, recombination, and repair, and act as cytokines to mediate responses to infection, injury, and inflammation. HMGB1/2/3 has a high similarity in sequence and structure, while HMGB4 has no acidic C-terminal tail. Among them, HMGB3 can regulate the self-renewal and differentiation of normal hematopoietic stem cell population, but the decrease of its expression is easy to induce leukemia. Up-regulation of its expression promotes tumor development and chemotherapy resistance through a variety of mechanisms, and non-coding RNA can regulate to promote tumor cell proliferation, invasion, and migration and inhibit cancer cell apoptosis.

Circular RNA 0001313 Knockdown Suppresses Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cell Proliferation and Invasion via the microRNA-452/HMGB3/ERK/MAPK Axis

Background

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) seriously endangers human health. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) regulate diverse types of cancers, including NSCLC. This study investigated the possible mechanism of circ0001313 in NSCLC.

Materials and Methods

Circ0001313 expression in NSCLC tissues was measured, and its correlation with clinicopathological features was analyzed. The binding relationships among circ0001313, microRNA (miR)-452 and HMGB3 were tested. The gain and loss of functions were performed to examine NSCLC cell malignant behaviors. After HMGB3 overexpression, ERK/MAPK pathway-related protein levels were detected. Subsequently, the rescue experiment was further performed using an ERK/MAPK pathway inhibitor PD98059.

Results

Abnormally elevated circ0001313 and decreased miR-452 in NSCLC cells were observed. Circ0001313 silencing or miR-452 overexpression significantly reduced NSCLC cell proliferation and invasion. Circ0001313 competitively bound to miR-452 to upregulate HMGB3, thus promoting NSCLC cell growth. HMGB3 overexpression activated the ERK/MAPK pathway to contribute to NSCLC development.

Conclusion

We highlighted that silencing of circ0001313 blunted the ERK/MAPK pathway via the miR-452/HMGB3 axis, thereby inhibiting NSCLC cell proliferation and invasion.

NEAT1/miR-200b-3p/SMAD2 axis promotes progression of melanoma

Melanoma is a skin malignancy with a high mutation frequency of genetic alterations. MicroRNA (miR)-200b-3p is involved in various cancers, while in melanoma its bio-function remains unknown. In this study, we found that miR-200b-3p was down-regulated in melanoma tissues and cell lines compared to benign nevus cells. Overexpression of miR-200b-3p significantly inhibited the proliferation and invasion of melanoma cells. According to bioinformatics analysis and sequencing data, we supposed that SMAD family member 2 (SMAD2) was the target gene and nuclear enriched abundant transcript 1 (NEAT1) was the upstream long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) of miR-200b-3p. These predictions were verified by western blotting and quantitative real-time reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR). Luciferase reporter assays revealed that NEAT1 up-regulated SMAD2 by directly sponging miR-200b-3p. In vitro and in vivo, we demonstrated that both NEAT1 and SMAD2 could promote the proliferation and invasion of melanoma cells, and these effects were reversed by up-regulating miR-200b-3p. In addition, NEAT1/miR-200b-3p/SMAD2 axis promoted melanoma progression by activating EMT signaling pathway and immune responses. Taken together, the NEAT1/miR-200b-3p/SMAD2 signaling pathway promotes melanoma via activation of EMT, cell invasion and is related with immune responses, which provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets for melanoma.

Long Noncoding RNA PTPRG Antisense RNA 1 Reduces Radiosensitivity of Nonsmall Cell Lung Cancer Cells Via Regulating MiR-200c-3p/TCF4

Background:

PTPRG antisense RNA 1 has been well-documented to exert an oncogenic role in diverse neoplasms. However, the precise role of PTPRG antisense RNA 1 in regulating radiosensitivity of nonsmall cell lung cancer cells remains largely elusive.

Methods:

Expression levels of PTPRG antisense RNA 1 and miR-200c-3p in nonsmall cell lung cancer tissues and cells were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, while transcription factor 4 expression was examined by immunohistochemistry and Western blot. After nonsmall cell lung cancer cells were exposed to X-ray with different doses in vitro, Cell Counting Kit-8 assay and colony formation assay were conducted to determine the influence of PTPRG antisense RNA 1 on cell viability. Interaction between miR-200c-3p and PTPRG antisense RNA 1 as well as transcription factor 4 was investigated by dual luciferase reporter assay.

Result:

In nonsmall cell lung cancer tissues, the expressions of PTPRG antisense RNA 1 and transcription factor 4 were significantly upregulated, whereas the expression of miR-200c-3p was downregulated. It was also proved that PTPRG antisense RNA 1 and 3′-untranslated region of transcription factor 4 can bind to miR-200c-3p. Under X-ray irradiation, overexpressed PTPRG antisense RNA 1 could promote the viability and enhance the radioresistance of nonsmall cell lung cancer cells, and this effect was partially weakened by miR-200c-3p mimics. Transcription factor 4 was identified as a target gene of miR-200c-3p, which could be positively regulated by PTPRG antisense RNA 1.

Conclusion:

PTPRG antisense RNA 1 reduces the radiosensitivity of nonsmall cell lung cancer cells via modulating miR-200c-3p/TCF4 axis.

The fibrotic microenvironment promotes the metastatic seeding of tumor cells into the lungs via mediating the ZEB1-AS1/miR-200b-3p/ZEB1 signaling

Fibrotic microenvironment has been reported to have a pro-metastasis effect on tumor cells, but the mechanism remains unclear. The current study aimed to explore the underlying mechanism by which the fibrotic microenvironment affects tumor cells. A tumor metastasis model was established by injecting tumor cells containing GFP into mice with pulmonary fibrosis. Lung tissues and fibroblasts were harvested, and conditioned medium (CM) were collected from fibrotic lungs and fibroblasts. Hematoxylin & eosin staining and immunohistochemistry were used to detect pulmonary metastasis and FSP1 expression, respectively. Bioinformatics and dual-luciferase reporter assay proved that the target genes of ZEB1-AS1 and miR-200b-3p were miR-200b-3p and ZEB1, respectively. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was performed to detect the expressions of GFP, ZEB1-AS1, and miR-200b-3p. Transwell assay, Annexin V/PI assay, and colorimetry were performed to examine the effects of CM, ZEB1-AS1, miR-200b-3p, and ZEB1 on cell invasion, apoptosis, and the activity level of caspase-3/-9. Pulmonary metastasis was promoted and the expressions of FSP1 and GFP were increased in mice with pulmonary fibrosis. CM enhanced the invasion and inhibited the apoptosis of tumor cells. SiZEB1-AS1 and siZEB1 inhibited the invasion and apoptosis of tumor cells, while miR-200b-3p inhibitor had the opposite effect of SiZEB1-AS1 and siZEB1, and further reversed the effect of siZEB1 on tumor cell invasion and apoptosis. SiZEB1-AS1 reversed the effects of both miR-200b-3p inhibitor and miR-200b-3p inhibitor+siZEB1 on tumor cell invasion and apoptosis. Fibrotic microenvironment promoted the metastatic seeding of tumor cells into the lungs via mediating the ZEB1-AS1/miR-200b-3p/ZEB1 signaling.

miRNA signature in glioblastoma: Potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are transcripts with sizes of about 22 nucleotides, which are produced through a multistep process in the nucleus and cytoplasm. These transcripts modulate the expression of their target genes through binding with certain target regions, particularly 3' suntranslated regions. They are involved in the pathogenesis of several kinds of cancers, such as glioblastoma. Several miRNAs, including miR-10b, miR-21, miR-17-92-cluster, and miR-93, have been up-regulated in glioblastoma cell lines and clinical samples. On the other hand, expression of miR-7, miR-29b, miR-32, miR-34, miR-181 family members, and a number of other miRNAs have been decreased in this type of cancer. In the current review, we explain the role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of glioblastoma through providing a summary of studies that reported dysregulation of these epigenetic effectors in this kind of brain cancer.

Serum exosomal microRNA transcriptome profiling in subacute spinal cord injured rats

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in a series of pathology of spinal cord injury (SCI). Although, locally expressed miRNAs have advantages in studying the pathological mechanism, they cannot be used as biomarkers. The "free circulation" miRNAs can be used as biomarkers, but they have low concentration and poor stability in body fluids. Exosomal miRNAs in body fluids have many advantages comparing with free miRNAs. Therefore, we hypothesized that the specific miRNAs in the central nervous system might be transported to the peripheral circulation and concentrated in exosomes after injury. Using next-generation sequencing, miRNA profiles in serum exosomes of sham and subactue SCI rats were analyzed. The results showed that SCI can lead to changes of serum exosomal miRNAs. These changed miRNAs and their associated signaling pathways may explain the pathological mechanism of suacute SCI. More importantly, we found some valuable serum exosomal miRNAs for diagnosis and prognosis of SCI.

The pathogenicity, structural and functional exploration of human HMGB1 single nucleotide polymorphisms using in silico study

The human HMGB1 gene mutations have a major impact on several immune-related diseases and cancer. The detrimental effect of non-synonymous mutations of HMGB1 has not been investigated yet, hence the present study aims to examine single nucleotide polymorphisms and their implications on the structure-function of human HMGB1. The multifaceted HMGB1 protein acts as pleiotropic cytokine and regulates essential genes for coordinated cellular functions. The mutational effect on HMGB1 was analyzed by sequence-based homology methods, supervised learning methods, and structure-based methods. The study identified 58 non-synonymous mutations in human HMGB1, out of which only 2 mutations; R10T (rs61742222) and F103C (rs61733675) were classified as the SNPs with highest deleterious and disease-causing mutants. The effect of these mutations in structure of HMGB1 was scrutinized and the R10T mutant found to have a distinct structural behaviour in the B-box domain. In addition, R10T mutant predicted that it affects the MoRF function of HMGB1 and it could disrupt the DNA binding or/and protein partner interaction activity by HMGB1. F103C mutation takes place at the TLR binding and cytokine inducing region of HMGB1, hence it could affect the protein binding activity which involves in many cellular signaling. The study identified potent mutations R10T (a cancer-causing somatic mutation) and F103C (a novel mutation) and these mutations either directly or indirectly hinder DNA binding activity and TLR and cytokine binding of HMGB1. These findings will help in understanding the molecular basis of these promising mutations and functional role of human HMGB1 in cancer and immunological diseases.AbbreviationsAGERAdvanced glycosylation end product-specific receptorCXCLChemokine (C-X-C motif) liganddbSNPThe single nucleotide polymorphism databaseHMGB1High mobility group box 1LINCSLINear Constraint SolverMDSMolecular dynamics simulationMoRFMolecular recognition featuresNPTNumber of particle, Pressure and TemperatureNVTNumber of particle, Volume and TemperaturensSNPNon-synonymous SNPPBCPartial boundary conditionPCAPrincipal component analysisPMEPartial mesh EwaldRMSDRoot mean square deviationRMSFRoot mean square fluctuationSNPSingle nucleotide polymorphismSPCSingle-point chargeTLRToll-like receptorUTRUn-translated RegionCommunicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

LncRNA PITPNA-AS1 boosts the proliferation and migration of lung squamous cell carcinoma cells by recruiting TAF15 to stabilize HMGB3 mRNA

Plenty of reports have probed the involvement of abnormally expressed lncRNAs in multiple cancers, including lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC). Through online database GEPIA, lncRNA PITPNA antisense RNA 1 (PITPNA-AS1) was highly expressed in LUSC samples, and these tendency was further affirmed in LUSC cells. The aim of current study was to investigate the related mechanism of PITPNA-AS1 in LUSC. Functional experiments verified that depletion of PITPNA-AS1 hampered the proliferative and migratory abilities, but accelerated apoptosis of LUSC cells. Additionally, we observed the increased expression of HMGB3 and its positive correlation with PITPNA-AS1 in LUSC samples. Interestingly, PITPNA-AS1 mainly located in the cytosol of LUSC cells, and also affected mRNA stability of HMGB3. Furthermore, the repressed mRNA stability of HMGB3 by PITPNA-AS1 via TAF15 was exposed through mechanism experiments. The mediatory function of PITPNA-AS1 on HMGB3 was validated via rescue assays. All in all, PITPNA-AS1 promoted the proliferation and migration of LUSC cells via stabilizing HMGB3 by TAF15. In conclusion, our study displayed a novel mechanism underlying PITPNA-AS1 in LUSC cells.

N6-Adenosine Methylation of miRNA-200b-3p Influences Its Functionality and Is a Theranostic Tool

MicroRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) play crucial roles in biological and pathological processes. Some miRNAs also appear as promising biomarkers and therapeutic tools. However, the epitranscriptomic regulation of miRNAs is not yet fully elucidated in all of their fields of application. We report that adenosine methylation of miR-200b-3p inhibits its repressive function toward its mRNA targets such as XIAP by blocking the formation of the miRNA/3' UTRmRNA duplex. Our data indicate that the adenosine methylation of miR-200b-3p is associated with the survival of glioblastoma patients. Collectively, our data support the idea that the adenosine methylation of miR-200b-3p can be used as a prodrug having a selective cytotoxicity against cancer cells (while being harmless to peripheral blood mononuclear cells [PBMCs], astrocytes, neurons, and hepatocytes).

Establishment of a novel cell cycle-related prognostic signature predicting prognosis in patients with endometrial cancer

Background

Endometrial cancer (EnCa) ranks fourth in menace within women’s malignant tumors. Large numbers of studies have proven that functional genes can change the process of tumors by regulating the cell cycle, thereby achieving the goal of targeted therapy.

Methods

The transcriptional data of EnCa samples obtained from the TCGA database was analyzed. A battery of bioinformatics strategies, which included GSEA, Cox and LASSO regression analysis, establishment of a prognostic signature and a nomogram for overall survival (OS) assessment. The GEPIA and CPTAC analysis were applied to validate the dysregulation of hub genes. For mutation analysis, the “maftools” package was used.

Results

GSEA identified that cell cycle was the most associated pathway to EnCa. Five cell cycle-related genes including HMGB3, EZH2, NOTCH2, UCK2 and ODF2 were identified as prognosis-related genes to build a prognostic signature. Based on this model, the EnCa patients could be divided into low- and high-risk groups, and patients with high-risk score exhibited poorer OS. Time-dependent ROC and Cox regression analyses revealed that the 5-gene signature could predict EnCa prognosis exactly and independently. GEPIA and CPTAC validation exhibited that these genes were notably dysregulated between EnCa and normal tissues. Lower mutation rates of PTEN, TTN, ARID1A, and etc. were found in samples with high-risk score compared with that with low-risk score. GSEA analysis suggested that the samples of the low- and high-risk groups were concentrated on various pathways, which accounted for the different oncogenic mechanisms in patients in two groups.

Conclusion

The current research construct a 5-gene signature to evaluate prognosis of EnCa patients, which may innovative clinical application of prognostic assessment.

MiR-200b in heme oxygenase-1-modified bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes alleviates inflammatory injury of intestinal epithelial cells by targeting high mobility group box 3

Heme Oxygen-1 (HO-1)-modified bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) are effective to protect and repair transplanted small bowel and intestinal epithelial cells (IECs); however, the mechanism and the role of HO-1/BMMSCs-derived exosomes is unclear. In the present study, we aimed to verify that exosomes from a HO-1/BMMSCs and IEC-6 cells (IEC-6s) co-culture system could reduce the apoptosis of IEC-6s and decrease the expression of the tight junction protein, zona occludens 1, in the inflammatory environment. Using mass spectrometry, we revealed that high mobility group box 3 (HMGB3) and phosphorylated c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK), under the influence of differentially abundant proteins identified through proteomic analysis, play critical roles in the mechanism. Further studies indicated that microRNA miR-200b, which was upregulated in exosomes derived from the co-culture of HO-1/BMMSCs and IEC-6s, exerted its role by targeting the 3′ untranslated region of Hmgb3 in this biological process. Functional experiments confirmed that miR-200b overexpression could reduce the inflammatory injury of IEC-6s, while intracellular miR-200b knockdown could significantly block the protective effect of HO-1/BMMSCs exosomes on the inflammatory injury of IEC-6s. In addition, the level of miR-200b in cells and exosomes derived from HO-1/BMMSCs stimulated by tumor necrosis factor alpha was significantly upregulated. In a rat small bowel transplantation model of allograft rejection treated with HO-1/BMMSCs, we confirmed that the level of miR-200b in the transplanted small bowel tissue was increased significantly, while the level of HMGB3/JNK was downregulated significantly. In conclusion, we identified that exosomes derived from HO-1/BMMSCs play an important role in alleviating the inflammatory injury of IECs. The mechanism is related to miR-200b targeting the abnormally increased expression of the Hmgb3 gene in IECs induced by inflammatory injury. The reduced level of HMGB3 then decreases the inflammatory injury.

miR-200b-3p mitigates oxaliplatin resistance via targeting TUBB3 in colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Numerous abnormally expressed miRs have been reported involved in oxaliplatin (L-OHP) resistance of colorectal cancer (CRC). The present study aimed to investigate whether miR-200b-3p could regulate L-OHP resistance via targeting TUBB3 in CRC cells.

METHODS

L-OHP resistant HT29 and HCT116 cells were exposed to escalating concentrations of L-OHP up to 30 μm. The effect of miR-200b-3p on L-OHP resistant CRC cells was then evaluated using the cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. CRC cell apoptosis was detected using Annexin V-FITC/PI double staining. Bioinformatics algorithms and luciferase reporter assays were also performed to investigate whether TUBB3 was a direct target of miR-200b-3p.

RESULTS

miR-200b-3p declined in L-OHP resistant CRC tissues and cell lines, and the overexpression of miR-200b-3p elevated the L-OHP sensitivity in L-OHP resistant HT29 and HCT116 cells. In addition, we determined the potential mechanisms underlying miR-200b-3p-mediated reversal of L-OHP resistance by mediating its downstream target TUBB3, and the overexpression of miR-200b-3p could induce migration and growth inhibition and apoptosis in L-OHP resistant HT29 and HCT116 cells by silencing βIII-tubulin protein expression. However, the overexpression of TUBB3 reversed miR-200b-3p mimic-induced migration, as well as growth inhibition and apoptosis, in L-OHP resistant CRC cells.

CONCLUSIONS

miR-200b-3p improved L-OHP resistance and induced growth inhibition and cell apoptosis in L-OHP resistant CRC cells, and the underlying mechanism was mediated, at least partially, through the suppression of βIII-tubulin protein expression.

LncRNA SNHG5 promotes nasopharyngeal carcinoma progression by regulating miR-1179/HMGB3 axis

Background

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been reported to be important regulators in pathogenesis of human cancers, including nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Here, we mainly aimed to explore the mechanisms of LncRNA-SNHG5/ miR-1179/HMGB3 axis in NPC progression.

Methods

RT-qPCR and Western blot analysis were employed to detect mRNA and protein expressions. CCK-8, Transwell and dual luciferase reporter assays were applied to investigate functions of LncRNA-SNHG5/miR-1179/HMGB3 axis.

Results

Upregulation of lncRNA-SNHG5 and downregulation of miR-1179 were identified in NPC, which were associated with adverse clinical outcomes. Functionally, upregulation of lncRNA-SNHG5 and downregulation of miR-1179 accelerated NPC cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Furthermore, lncRNA-SNHG5 acted as a molecular sponge of miR-1179 in NPC. Besides that, upregulation of HMGB3 was found in NPC, and knockdown of HMGB3 restrained NPC progression. Moreover, HMGB3, a target of miR-1179, regulated NPC progression by mediating LncRNA-SNHG5/miR-1179 axis.

Conclusion

LncRNA SNHG5 serves as a tumor promoter in NPC by sponging miR-1179 and upregulating HMGB3.

Serum exosomal microRNA transcriptome profiling in subacute spinal cord injured rats

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in a series of pathology of spinal cord injury (SCI). Although, locally expressed miRNAs have advantages in studying the pathological mechanism, they cannot be used as biomarkers. The "free circulation" miRNAs can be used as biomarkers, but they have low concentration and poor stability in body fluids. Exosomal miRNAs in body fluids have many advantages comparing with free miRNAs. Therefore, we hypothesized that the specific miRNAs in the central nervous system might be transported to the peripheral circulation and concentrated in exosomes after injury. Using next-generation sequencing, miRNA profiles in serum exosomes of sham and subactue SCI rats were analyzed. The results showed that SCI can lead to changes of serum exosomal miRNAs. These changed miRNAs and their associated signaling pathways may explain the pathological mechanism of suacute SCI. More importantly, we found some valuable serum exosomal miRNAs for diagnosis and prognosis of SCI.

Long non-coding RNA HOTTIP promotes hypoxia-induced glycolysis through targeting miR-615-3p/HMGB3 axis in non-small cell lung cancer cells

Increased glycolysis under hypoxic stress is a fundamentally important feature of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells, but molecular mechanisms of hypoxia on glycolysis remain elusive. Herein, we aimed to explore whether lncRNAs and miRNAs are involved in the glycolytic reprogramming under hypoxic conditions. The levels of HOXA transcript at the distal tip (HOTTIP), miR-615-3p and high mobility group box 3 (HMGB3) mRNA were assessed by qRT-PCR. Western blot was performed to determine the protein expression of hexokinase 2 (HK-2) and HMGB3. Glucose consumption and lactate production were analyzed using a respective assay kit. The targeted correlation between miR-615-3p and HOTTIP or HMGB3 was verified using dual-luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipition assays. Our data revealed that HOTTIP was upregulated and miR-615-3p was downregulated in NSCLC tissues and cells. Hypoxia induced glycolysis, increased HOTTIP and HMGB3 mRNA levels and repressed miR-615-3p expression in NSCLC cells. HOTTIP deficiency or miR-615-3p expression restoration repressed hypoxia-induced glycolysis. Moreover, HOTTIP acted as a molecular sponge for miR-615-3p and HMGB3 was a direct target of miR-615-3p. The inhibitory effect of HOTTIP deficiency on glycolysis under hypoxic exposure was reversed by miR-615-3p restoration. Additionally, HOTTIP regulated HMGB3 expression by acting as a molecular sponge of miR-615-3p in NSCLC cells. In conclusion, our study suggested that HOTTIP might promote glycolysis under hypoxic conditions at least partly through regulating miR-615-3p/HMGB3 axis in NSCLC cells. Targeting HOTTIP might be a promising therapeutic strategy for NSCLC treatment.

miR-200c-3p Suppresses the Proliferative, Migratory, and Invasive Capacities of Nephroblastoma Cells via Targeting FRS2

Objectives: miR-200c-3p has been shown to serve as a tumor suppressor in various tumor types. However, the biological function of miR-200c-3p in nephroblastoma remains unknown. This study aims to investigate the biological function and regulatory mechanisms of miR-200c-3p in nephroblastoma development. Methods: The expression of miR-200c-3p in nephroblastoma tissues and cells was evaluated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The effects of miR-200c-3p on the proliferation and cell cycle of SK-NEP-1 nephroblastoma cell line were evaluated by CCK-8 assay, colony formation assay, and flow cytometry. The effects of miR-200c-3p on the migratory and invasive capacities of SK-NEP-1 cells were measured by wound healing assay and transwell assay. The ability of miR-200c-3p to target fibroblast growth factor receptor substrate 2 (FRS2) was detected by quantitative PCR, western blot, and luciferase reporter assay. Results: The expression of miR-200c-3p was significantly downregulated in nephroblastoma tissues and cells compared with that in normal renal tissues and cells. miR-200c-3p inhibited the proliferative, migratory, and invasive capacities of nephroblastoma cells by targeting FRS2. Conclusions: miR-200c-3p suppresses the malignant behaviors of nephroblastoma cells by downregulating the expression of FRS2.

Prognostic value of the tumor-specific ceRNA network in epithelial ovarian cancer

Epithelial ovarian cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death worldwide. Growing evidence indicates that multiple complex altered pathways play important regulatory roles in the development and progression of a variety of cancers, including epithelial ovarian cancer. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. First, we identified differentially expressed messenger RNAs (mRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), and microRNAs (miRNAs) in epithelial ovarian cancer by comparing the expression profiles between epithelial ovarian cancer samples and normal tissue samples in different GEO datasets. Then, GO- and KEGG-pathway-enrichment analyses were applied to investigate the primary functions of the overlapped differentially expressed mRNAs. Moreover, the primary enriched genes were used to construct the signal-network with Cytoscape software. In addition, we integrated the relationship among lncRNAs-miRNAs-mRNAs to create a competing endogenous RNA network. Finally, mRNAs that were associated with patient prognosis in epithelial ovarian cancer were selected using univariate Cox regression analysis. A total of 2,225 mRNAs, 336 lncRNAs, and 14 miRNAs were shown to be differentially expressed in epithelial ovarian cancer compared with normal tissues. The dysregulated mRNAs were primarily enriched in cell division and signal transduction, according to Gene Ontology, whereas, according to KEGG, they were primarily enriched in metabolic pathways and pathways in cancer. A total of 10 mRNAs were associated with patient prognosis in ovarian cancer. This study identifies a novel lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network, which may suggest potential molecular mechanisms underlying the development of epithelial ovarian cancer, providing new insights for survival prediction and interventional strategies for epithelial ovarian cancer.