Long non-coding RNA NEAT1 overexpression associates with increased exacerbation risk, severity, and inflammation, as well as decreased lung function through the interaction with microRNA-124 in asthma

Mechanism of action of lncRNA-NEAT1 in immune diseases

NEAT1, a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), is involved in assembling nuclear paraspeckles that have been found to impact various immune-related diseases, such as autoimmune diseases, allergic diseases, cancer immunity, sepsis, etc. In immune-related diseases, lncRNA-NEAT1 affects the activation, proliferation, and differentiation process of immune cells by interacting with transcription factors and miRNA (MicroRNA) to regulate an expression level in immune-related genes. It can also regulate the apoptosis and autophagy processes of immune cells by regulating inflammatory responses, interacting with apoptosis-related proteins, or regulating the expression of autophagy-related genes, thereby regulating the development of immune-related diseases. In recent years, a large number of researchers have found that the abnormal expression of lncRNA-NEAT1 has a great impact on the onset and progression of immune diseases, such as innate immunity after viral infection and the humoral immunity of T lymphocytes. In this paper, the specific mechanism of action and the function of lncRNA-NEAT1 in different immune-related diseases are sorted out and analyzed, to furnish a theoretical foundation for the study of the mechanism of action of immune cells.

Role of NEAT1 and HOTAIR long non-coding RNAs in Behcet's Disease pathogenesis and their correlation with target inflammatory cytokines

BACKGROUND

Recent studies have highlighted the potential role of several long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the pathogenesis of Behçet's disease (BD). This study investigated the expression profiles of lncRNA NEAT1 and lncRNA HOTAIR, and their target cytokine genes, IL-6 and TNF-α, in active and inactive BD patients.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) obtained from 25 BD patients and 25 age-sex-matched healthy controls (HCs). BD activity was evaluated using the BDCAF (Behcet's Disease Current Activity Form) score. Correlation analysis assessed the relationship between BD activity and the expression levels of lncRNAs and their target cytokine genes. The diagnostic potential of the genes was evaluated using Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.

RESULTS

The expression levels of NEAT1, HOTAIR, IL-6, and TNF-α were significantly higher in the BD group compared to the HCs. However, there was no significant correlation between the expression levels of these genes and BD activity or the involvement of various organs. A positive correlation was observed between HOTAIR gene expression and IL-6 (R = 0.594, P-value = 0.009) in the BD group. In contrast, no significant correlation was found between HOTAIR and TNF-α or between NEAT1 and TNF-α or IL-6. The ROC curve analysis indicated strong diagnostic potential for the lncRNAs, with area under the curve (AUC) values of 0.90 for NEAT1 and 0.86 for HOTAIR.

CONCLUSION

The elevated expression levels of NEAT1 and HOTAIR in BD patients suggest their potential involvement in the disease's pathogenesis, indicating promising targets for future diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in BD.

Inhibition of long non-coding RNA NEAT1 suppressed the epithelial mesenchymal transition through the miR-204-5p/Six1 axis in asthma

BACKGROUND

Asthma, a prevalent chronic respiratory condition, is characterized by airway remodeling. Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) NEAT1 has been demonstrated to participate in airway fibrosis. Furthermore, the miR-204-5p/Six1 axis significantly influences epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT). However, the function of NEAT1/miR-204-5p/Six1 in asthmatic EMT remains unclear.

PURPOSE

This study intends to elucidate the function of NEAT1/miR-204-5p/Six1 axis in asthmatic EMT.

METHODS

TGF-β1 was used to induce the EMT model in BEAS-2B cells. Immunofluorescence and western blot were executed to verify the establishment of the EMT model. NEAT1, miR-204-5p, and Six1 expression levels were evaluated using RT-qPCR. The role of NEAT1 in EMT in vitro was explored by CCK8 assays and flow cytometry. The luciferase reporter assay was performed to validate the interaction between NEAT1 and miR-204-5p/Six1.

RESULTS

NEAT1 expression was increased during EMT. Functional experiments showed that the knockdown of NEAT1 suppressed cell proliferation and promoted cell apoptosis in vitro. Furthermore, inhibition of NEAT1 decreased the expression of N-cadherin, vimentin, and α-SMA and increased the expression of E-cadherin. Mechanistically, NEAT1 was identified as a sponge for miR-204-5p, and Six1 was found to be a direct target of miR-204-5p.

CONCLUSION

Down-regulation of NEAT1 reduced the Six1 expression via targeting miR-204-5p to inhibit the process of EMT in asthma. This study may provide new insight to reveal the underlying mechanisms of asthma.

Effects of nicotine on microRNA-124 expression in bile duct ligation-induced liver fibrosis in rats

BACKGROUND

Nicotine, the main compound of smoking may exert its effects by changing the expression of microRNAs (miRNAs). This study was conducted to further investigate the molecular mechanisms of miRNA-dependent effects of nicotine in an animal model of liver fibrosis.

METHODS

The bile duct ligation (BDL) approach was used to create a model of liver fibrosis. Twenty-four male Wistar rats were used in the study. The effects of nicotine administration on miRNA-124 expression, as well as alpha-smooth muscle actin (liver fibrosis marker) and chemokine ligand 2 (an inflammatory chemokine), were investigated using RT-qPCR. In addition, the mRNA and protein expression of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT-3; as a potential target for miRNA-124) were investigated by RT-qPCR and immunofluorescence, respectively. Liver enzyme activity levels were measured using a colorimetric assay. In addition, the effects of nicotine on the process of liver fibrosis were investigated with histological studies.

RESULTS

The development of liver fibrosis in BDL rats and nicotine administration led to a decrease in miRNA-124 expression. The decrease in the expression is accompanied by the increase in the expression of fibrotic and proinflammatory genes. Also, an increase in STAT-3 mRNA and protein expression was observed in the fibrotic rats that received nicotine. In addition, the significant increase in bilirubin and liver enzymes in fibrotic rats worsens with nicotine administration. The results of histological studies also confirm these results.

CONCLUSION

Considering that miRNA-124 is an anti-inflammatory miRNA, it can be concluded that the decrease in its expression due to nicotine exposure leads to an increase in inflammatory processes and subsequently to an increase in liver fibrosis.

Interaction between long noncoding RNA and microRNA in lung inflammatory diseases

BACKGROUND

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are a group of RNAs that cannot synthesize proteins, but are critical in gene expression regulation. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs), the two major family members, are intimately involved in controlling immune response, cell proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation and polarization, and cytokine secretion. Their interactions significantly influence lung inflammatory diseases and could be potential therapeutic targets.

OBJECTIVES

The review aims to elucidate the role of ncRNAs, especially the interactions between lncRNA and miRNA in lung diseases, including acute and chronic lung inflammatory diseases, as well as lung cancer. And provide novel insights into disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic methods.

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive review of the latest studies on lncRNA and miRNA in lung inflammatory diseases. Our research involved searching through electronic databases like PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus.

RESULTS

We explain the fundamental characteristics and functions of miRNA and lncRNA, their potential interaction mechanisms, and summarize the newly explorations on the role of lncRNA and miRNA interactions in lung inflammatory diseases.

CONCLUSIONS

Numerous lncRNAs and miRNAs have been found to partipicate in all stages of lung inflammatory diseases. While ncRNA-based therapies have been validated and developed, there remain challenges in developing more stable and effective drugs for clinical use.

Long non coding RNAs reveal important pathways in childhood asthma: a future perspective

Asthma is a long-term inflammatory disease of the airways of the lungs refers changes that occur in conjunction with, or as a result of, chronic airway inflammation. Airway remodeling the subsequent of inflammation constitutes cellular and extracellular matrix changes in the wall airways, epithelial-to-mesenchymal-transition and airway smooth muscle cell proliferation. Diseases often begin in childhood and despite extensive research, causative pathogenic mechanisms still remain unclear. Transcriptome analysis of childhood asthma reveals distinct gene expression profiles of Long noncoding RNAs which have been reported to play a central regulatory role in various aspects of pathogenesis, clinical course and treatment of asthma. We briefly review current understanding of lnc-RNA dysregulation in children with asthma, focusing on their complex role in the inflammation, cell proliferation and remodeling of airway to guide future researches. We found that the lnc-RNAs increases activity of several oncogenes such c-Myc, Akt, and ERK and various signaling pathways such as MAPK (PI3K, Ras, JNK and p38), NF-κB and Wnt and crosstalk between these pathways by TGFβ, β-catenin, ERK and SKP2. Moreover, two different signal transduction pathways, Wnt and Notch1, can be activated by two lnc-RNAs through sponging the same miRNA for exacerbation cell proliferation.

Lncrna NEAT1 Regulates Th1/Th2 in Pediatric Asthma by Targeting MicroRNA-217/GATA3

Background

The imbalance of immune response between helper Th1 and Th2 cells is the direct cause of asthma. It was closely related to abnormal expression of lncRNAs. However, whether lncRNAs can regulate Th1/Th2 balance in pediatric asthma remains to be investigated.

Methods

Peripheral blood samples were collected from children with asthma and normal volunteers at the Children's Hospital of Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital (Xi'an, China) in 2020. The qRT-PCR was used to detect the expression of lncRNA NEAT1, miR-217 and GATA3 in peripheral blood samples. The effects of lncRNA NEAT1, miR-217, and GATA3 on CD4+T cell population were detected in vitro. Meanwhile, the regulatory effect of lncRNA NEAT1/miR-217/GATA3 was evaluated through the dual luciferase report assay, functional assays and animal experiments.

Results

We investigated that lncRNA NEAT1 and GATA3 was significantly up-regulated in CD4+T cells in peripheral blood of children with asthma (P<0.001). Knockdown of lncRNA NEAT1 or GATA3 significantly reduced Th2-related cytokines (P<0.05), but had no effect on Th1 cells. Importantly, the interactions of lncRNA NEAT1 with miR-217 and miR-217 with GATA3 were confirmed by dual luciferase report assay. Meanwhile, functional assays and animal experiments demonstrated that lncRNA NEAT1 regulated GATA3 expression through sponge miR-217, thereby regulating Th1/Th2 balance in CD4+T cells in pediatric asthma.

Conclusion

lncRNA NEAT1/miR-217/GATA3 axis may reveal the immunological mechanism of pediatric asthma, which has potential clinical application value in the future.

Bioinformatics and systems-biology analysis to determine the effects of Coronavirus disease 2019 on patients with allergic asthma

Background

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has posed a significant challenge for global health systems. Increasing evidence shows that asthma phenotypes and comorbidities are major risk factors for COVID-19 symptom severity. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the association between COVID-19 and asthma are poorly understood. Therefore, we conducted bioinformatics and systems biology analysis to identify common pathways and molecular biomarkers in patients with COVID-19 and asthma, as well as potential molecular mechanisms and candidate drugs for treating patients with both COVID-19 and asthma.

Methods

Two sets of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from the GSE171110 and GSE143192 datasets were intersected to identify common hub genes, shared pathways, and candidate drugs. In addition, murine models were utilized to explore the expression levels and associations of the hub genes in asthma and lung inflammation/injury.

Results

We discovered 157 common DEGs between the asthma and COVID-19 datasets. A protein–protein-interaction network was built using various combinatorial statistical approaches and bioinformatics tools, which revealed several hub genes and critical modules. Six of the hub genes were markedly elevated in murine asthmatic lungs and were positively associated with IL-5, IL-13 and MUC5AC, which are the key mediators of allergic asthma. Gene Ontology and pathway analysis revealed common associations between asthma and COVID-19 progression. Finally, we identified transcription factor–gene interactions, DEG–microRNA coregulatory networks, and potential drug and chemical-compound interactions using the hub genes.

Conclusion

We identified the top 15 hub genes that can be used as novel biomarkers of COVID-19 and asthma and discovered several promising candidate drugs that might be helpful for treating patients with COVID-19 and asthma.

The role of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) nuclear-enriched abundant transcript 1 (NEAT1) in immune diseases

The long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) nuclear-enriched abundant transcript 1 (NEAT1) has been shown to be involved in the pathogenesis of several diseases. Herein, we discuss recent developments and insights into NEAT1 and its contribution to a variety of immune disorders. Our evaluations revealed that NEAT1's function in immune diseases seems to be focused on the modulation of paraspeckle expression and it is primarily associated with the nuclear retention of its mRNA. NEAT1 is also involved in the sequestration of paraspeckle proteins and in affecting the transcriptional expression of specific immune regulators. The expression of NEAT1 may be aberrantly upregulated in several immune pathologies, indicating that it could serve as a potential prognostic biomarker in these conditions. We summarized describing the expression changes and the role of NEAT1 in several immune diseases. We also described the mechanism of its regulation of the immune cell differentiation and function of NEAT1 in different disease.

Long Noncoding RNA NEAT1 Expression and Its Target miR-124 in Diabetic Ischemic Stroke Patients

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a known risk factor for stroke and may be linked to poorer post-stroke outcomes. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain to be fully identified. In this study we assessed the association of the lncRNA Nuclear enriched abundant transcript 1 (NEAT1)'s expression and its target miRNA-124 with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) in type II diabetic patients (T2DM). Methods and Results: Diabetic patients with stroke, non-diabetics with stroke, diabetics without stroke, and controls were recruited. NEAT1 and miR-124 expression levels in plasma samples from the participants were investigated using real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). C reactive protein (CRP) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) were measured using an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique. In the DM+AIS group, NEAT1 expression was considerably higher, compared with AIS group and with control group. In comparison to the AIS-only patients, DM patients and controls, miR-124 expression was considerably lower in the DM+AIS group. NEAT1 was shown to have good predictive value for AIS risk in diabetics, based on Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. In both the DM+AIS and the AIS group, NEAT1 levels was strongly linked with the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score. Also, a significant positive correlation was observed between NEAT1 expression and the inflammatory markers CRP and TNF-α and significant negative association with miRNA-124 in patient groups. Conclusion: In diabetic patients, the lncRNA NEAT1 may influence the incidence, severity, inflammation, and prognosis of AIS. NEAT1 expression levels could be used as a diagnostic marker of stroke in diabetic patients.

LncRNA NEAT1 correlates with Th17 cells and proinflammatory cytokines, also reflects stenosis degree and cholesterol level in coronary heart disease patients

BACKGROUND

Long non-coding RNA nuclear enriched abundant transcript 1 (lnc-NEAT1) regulates endothelial cell functions, CD4+ T cell regulation and chronic inflammation related to coronary heart disease (CHD). Then this case-control study measured lnc-NEAT1 expression in CHD patients, aiming to explore its clinical value in CHD management.

METHODS

Totally, 120 documented CHD patients and 120 suspected subjects without CHD diagnosis as controls were enrolled. Plasma lnc-NEAT1 was detected by RT-qPCR in all participants, plasma inflammatory cytokines were assessed by ELISA, T helper (Th) 1, Th2, Th 17 cell proportions in CD4+ T cells were analyzed by flow cytometric analysis in CHD patients, respectively.

RESULTS

Lnc-NEAT1 was higher in CHD patients than in controls (p < 0.001). In CHD patients, lnc-NEAT1 positively associated with Gensini score (r = 0.323, p < 0.001). Besides, lnc-NEAT1 positively correlated with tumor necrosis factor-α (r = 0.271, p = 0.003), interleukin (IL)-1β (r = 0.216, p = 0.018), IL-6 (r = 0.217, p = 0.018) and IL-17 (r = 0.292, p = 0.001); meanwhile, it was positively associated with the percentage of Th 17 cells (r = 0.384, p = 0.002). However, no correlation was found in lnc-NEAT1 with the percentage of Th1 or Th2 cells (all p > 0.05). Moreover, lnc-NEAT1 was correlated with higher hyperuricemia prevalence (p = 0.028), increased total cholesterol (r = 0.263, p = 0.004) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (r = 0.261, p = 0.004), but was not associated with other characteristics (all p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Lnc-NEAT1 correlates with Th17 cells and proinflammatory cytokines, also reflects stenosis degree and cholesterol level in CHD patients, which potentially improves the management of CHD patients.

Downregulation of lncRNA NEAT1 Relieves Caerulein-Induced Cell Apoptosis and Inflammatory Injury in AR42J Cells Through Sponging miR-365a-3p in Acute Pancreatitis

Mounting evidence suggests that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs exert a critical regulatory role in acute pancreatitis. The present study aimed to explore the role of lncRNA nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1) in acute pancreatitis (AP) that was induced by caerulein in rat pancreatic acinar cells (AR42J). The potential target sites of lncRNA NEAT1 and miR-365a-3p were predicted using starBase and were confirmed using dual-luciferase reporter assay. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction was performed to assess lncRNA NEAT1 and miR-365a-3p expression levels in AP induced by caerulein. Cell Counting Kit-8 and flow cytometry assays were performed to assess AR42J cell viability. Western blotting was performed to evaluate the expression of apoptosis-related proteins. Interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α levels were detected by ELISA. The results of the dual-luciferase reporter assay confirmed that miR-365a-3p could bind to NEAT1. LncRNA NEAT1 was upregulated in AR42J cells treated with 10 nmol/l caerulein, and miR-365a-3p was expressed at low levels in an AP model. Overexpression of miR-365a-3p suppressed the apoptosis and inflammatory response of AR42J cells induced by caerulein. Importantly, inhibition of lncRNA NEAT1 decreased apoptosis and inflammation in caerulein-treated AR42J cells, while these effects were reverted upon co-transfection with a miR-365a-3p inhibitor. In conclusion, lncRNA NEAT1 was involved in AP progression by sponging miR-365a-3p and may thus be a novel target for treating patients with AP.

LncRNA-miRNA network analysis across the Th17 cell line reveals biomarker potency of lncRNA NEAT1 and KCNQ1OT1 in multiple sclerosis

Differentiation of CD⁴⁺ T cells into Th17 cells is an important factor in the onset and progression of multiple sclerosis (MS) and Th17/Treg imbalance. Little is known about the role of lncRNAs in the differentiation of CD⁴⁺ cells from Th17 cells. This study aimed to analyse the lncRNA‐miRNAs network involved in MS disease and its role in the differentiation of Th17 cells. The lncRNAs in Th17 differentiation were obtained from GSE66261 using the GEO datasets. Differential expression of lncRNAs in Th17 primary cells compared to Th17 effector cells was investigated by RNA‐seq analysis. Next, the most highlighted lncRNAs in autoimmune diseases were downloaded from the lncRNAs disease database, and the most critical miRNA was extracted by literature search. Then, the lncRNA‐miRNA interaction was achieved by the Starbase database, and the ceRNA network was designed by Cytoscape. Finally, using the CytoHubba application, two hub lncRNAs with the most interactions with miRNAs were identified by the MCODE plug‐in. The expression level of genes was measured by qPCR, and the plasma level of cytokines was analysed by ELISA kits. The results showed an increase in the expression of NEAT1, KCNQ1OT1 and RORC and a decrease in the expression of FOXP3. In plasma, an upregulation of IL17 and a downregulation of TGFB inflammatory cytokines were detected. The dysregulated expression of these genes could be attributed to relapsing‐remitting MS (RR‐MS) patients and help us understand MS pathogenesis better.

Aberrant expressions of circulating lncRNA NEAT1 and microRNA‐125a are linked with Th2 cells and symptom severity in pediatric allergic rhinitis

Objective

Long noncoding RNA nuclear enriched abundant transcript 1 (lnc‐NEAT1) and its target microRNA‐125a (miR‐125a) are reported to regulate immune and inflammation process in allergic rhinitis (AR). Hence, this study intended to investigate the correlation between lnc‐NEAT1 and miR‐125a expressions, as well as their clinical values in pediatric AR patients.

Methods

Peripheral blood mononuclear cell samples from 80 pediatric AR patients, 40 disease controls (DCs), and 40 healthy controls (HCs) were collected to detect lnc‐NEAT1 and miR‐125a expressions by reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction. For pediatric AR patients only, serum interferon‐gamma (IFN‐γ) and interleukin (IL)‐10 were measured by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay; meanwhile, T helper (Th) 1 and Th2 cells in CD4⁺ T cells were analyzed by flow cytometry.

Results

Lnc‐NEAT1 was overexpressed, while miR‐125a downregulated in pediatric AR patients compared to DCs and HCs (all p < 0.001). Moreover, lnc‐NEAT1 expression negatively correlated with miR‐125a expression in pediatric AR patients (p = 0.002), but not in DCs (p = 0.226) or HCs (p = 0.237). Furthermore, in pediatric AR patients, lnc‐NEAT1 expression positively associated with TNSS (p < 0.001), sneezing score (p = 0.006), and congestion score (p = 0.008); miR‐125a expression was negatively related to TNSS (p < 0.001), itching score (p = 0.040), and sneezing score (p = 0.005). Additionally, lnc‐NEAT1 expression positively, while miR‐125a expression negatively correlated with Th2 cells and IL‐10 (all p < 0.05), but they were not correlated with Th1 cells or IFN‐γ in pediatric AR patients.

Conclusion

Circulating lnc‐NEAT1 and miR‐125a are aberrantly expressed and linked with Th2 cells and symptom severity in pediatric allergic rhinitis.

Expression of lncRNAs NEAT1 and lnc-DC in Serum From Patients With Behçet’s Disease Can Be Used as Predictors of Disease

Background: Behçet’s disease (BD) is a chronic autoimmune disease. The early diagnosis of BD is very important to avoid serious and/or fatal complications such as eye damage, severe neurological involvement, and large vessel occlusion. New, sensitive biomarkers would aid in rapid diagnosis, the monitoring of disease activity, and the response to treatment.

Methods: This study’s aim is to identify two immune system-related BD biomarkers. We measured long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) NEAT1 (nuclear-enriched abundant transcript 1), and lnc-DC (lncRNA in dendritic cells) in serum by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in 52 BD patients and 52 controls. We analyzed the association between NEAT1 and lnc-DC and the clinical parameters of BD. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to explore the diagnostic performance of the studied genes.

Results: Compared to controls, the significant upregulation of NEAT1 {median [interquartile range (IQR)] = 1.68 (0.38–7.7), p < 0.0001} and downregulation of lnc-DC [median (IQR) = 0.2 (0.12–1.39), p = 0.03] were detected in the sera collected from BD patients. Higher serum expression levels of NEAT1 and lnc-DC were significantly associated with the following clinical presentations: cutaneous lesions, vascular manifestations, articular manifestations, neurological manifestations, and higher disease activity score. Also, high NEAT1 levels were significantly associated with a negative pathergy test, while higher lnc-DC was significantly associated with a positive family history. ROC curves showed that NEAT1 and lnc-DC levels in serum could be used as predictors of BD with high specificity and fair sensitivity. NEAT1 had an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.692 (95% CI: 0.591–0.794, p = 0.001), and lnc-DC had an AUC of 0.615 (95% CI: 0.508–0.723, p = 0.043).

Conclusion: Serum lncRNAs NEAT1 and lnc-DC are biomarkers for BD.

The role of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1) in chronic periodontitis progression

Long non-coding RNA nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1) is a novel pro-inflammatory factor in severe human diseases. Since inflammatory plays important roles in periodontitis progression, we aimed to explore the role of NEAT1 in chronic periodontitis (CP) in vitro. We established a periodontitis cell model was established by Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide (Pg-LPS)-induced periodontal ligament cells (PDLCs). Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was performed to detect the expression of NEAT1, microRNA (miR)-200c-3p, and tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6). Cell viability, inflammatory factors, and protein expression of Bcl-2, Bax, and TRAF6 were analyzed by MTT, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and Western blot. The target relationships among NEAT1, miR-200c-3p, and TRAF6 were predicted by the StarBase/TargetScan software, and further validated by dual-luciferase reporter assay. In this research, NEAT1 is up-regulated in CP tissues and periodontitis model group. Silencing of NEAT1 and over-expression of miR-200c-3p enhanced cell viability and repressed apoptosis in the periodontitis model group. NEAT1 targets miR-200c-3p, and miR-200c-3p further targets TRAF6. MiR-200c-3p inhibitor or over-expression of TRAF6 reversed the promoting effect of NEAT1 knockdown on cell viability, and the inhibiting effects on inflammatory cytokines and cell apoptosis. Consequently, the silencing of NEAT1 inhibits inflammation and apoptosis via targeting miR-200c-3p/TRAF6 axis, thereby contributing to alleviate the progression of CP. This finding could provide an underlying target for the treatment of CP.

Emerging Roles of Non-Coding RNAs in Childhood Asthma

Asthma is a chronic airway inflammatory disease in children characterized by airway inflammation, airway hyperresponsiveness and airway remodeling. Childhood asthma is usually associated with allergy and atopy, unlike adult asthma, which is commonly associated with obesity, smoking, etc. The pathogenesis and diagnosis of childhood asthma also remains more challenging than adult asthma, such as many diseases showing similar symptoms may coexist and be confused with asthma. In terms of the treatment, although most childhood asthma can potentially be self-managed and controlled with drugs, approximately 5-10% of children suffer from severe uncontrolled asthma, which carries significant health and socioeconomic burdens. Therefore, it is necessary to explore the pathogenesis of childhood asthma from a new perspective. Studies have revealed that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are involved in the regulation of respiratory diseases. In addition, altered expression of ncRNAs in blood, and in condensate of sputum or exhalation affects the progression of asthma via regulating immune response. In this review, we outline the regulation and pathogenesis of asthma and summarize the role of ncRNAs in childhood asthma. We also hold promise that ncRNAs may be used for the development of biomarkers and support a new therapeutic strategy for childhood asthma.

LncRNA NEAT1 regulates MMP-16 by targeting miR-200a/b to aggravate inflammation in asthma

Asthma is a common respiratory disease which is characterized by persistent airway inflammation. Abnormal expression of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) is observed in asthma. However, whether lncRNA nuclear-enriched abundant transcript 1 (NEAT1) regulates asthmatic inflammation and its mechanism still needs to be further investigated. The expression levels of inflammatory factors (tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-4, IL-13, and IL-10) were detected using reverse transcription quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). MTT and flow cytometry assays were employed to determine cell proliferation and apoptosis, respectively. Dual luciferase reporter assay was performed to verify the relationship between miR-200a/b and MMP-16 or NEAT1. NEAT1 silencing markedly reduced TNF-α, IL-4, and IL-13 levels, while elevated IL-10 expression, suppressed cell proliferation, and promoted cell apoptosis. However, NEAT1 overexpression elicited the opposite effects on cell proliferation and inflammation cytokines secretion. What is more, NEAT1 negatively regulated miR-200a/b expression, and MMP16 was a target gene of miR-200a/b. miR-200a/b overexpression suppressed inflammation, cell proliferation, and enhanced cell apoptosis through regulation of MMP16. Moreover, MMP-16 overexpression or miR-200a/b inhibition abolished the regulatory effect of sh-NEAT1 on cell inflammation and apoptosis in BEAS-2B cells. NEAT1 acted as the role of sponge for miR-200a/b to regulate MMP-16 expression, thereby promoting asthma progression, suggesting that NEAT1 might have great potential as therapeutic target for asthma.

Biomarkers in Different Asthma Phenotypes

Asthma is the most common respiratory disease. It has multiple phenotypes thatcan be partially differentiated by measuring the disease’s specific characteristics—biomarkers. The pathogenetic mechanisms are complex, and it is still a challenge to choose suitable biomarkers to adequately stratify patients, which became especially important with the introduction of biologicals in asthma treatment. Usage of biomarkers and an understanding of the underlying pathobiological mechanisms lead to the definition of endotypes. Asthma can be broadly divided into two endotypes, T2-high and T2-low. The right combination of various biomarkers in different phenotypes is under investigation, hoping to help researchers and clinicians in better disease evaluation since theindividual approach and personalized medicine are imperative. Multiple biomarkers are superior to a single biomarker.

The Predictive Role of Biomarkers and Genetics in Childhood Asthma Exacerbations

Asthma exacerbations are associated with significant childhood morbidity and mortality. Recurrent asthma attacks contribute to progressive loss of lung function and can sometimes be fatal or near-fatal, even in mild asthma. Exacerbation prevention becomes a primary target in the management of all asthmatic patients. Our work reviews current advances on exacerbation predictive factors, focusing on the role of non-invasive biomarkers and genetics in order to identify subjects at higher risk of asthma attacks. Easy-to-perform tests are necessary in children; therefore, interest has increased on samples like exhaled breath condensate, urine and saliva. The variability of biomarker levels suggests the use of seriate measurements and composite markers. Genetic predisposition to childhood asthma onset has been largely investigated. Recent studies highlighted the influence of single nucleotide polymorphisms even on exacerbation susceptibility, through involvement of both intrinsic mechanisms and gene-environment interaction. The role of molecular and genetic aspects in exacerbation prediction supports an individual-shaped approach, in which follow-up planning and therapy optimization take into account not only the severity degree, but also the risk of recurrent exacerbations. Further efforts should be made to improve and validate the application of biomarkers and genomics in clinical settings.

Long non‑coding RNA NEAT1 promotes pulmonary fibrosis by regulating the microRNA‑455‑3p/SMAD3 axis

Pulmonary fibrosis is an excessive repair response to tissue damage, triggering hyperplasia of fibrotic connective tissues; however, there is no effective treatment in a clinical setting. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the roles of long non-coding RNA nuclear enriched abundant transcript 1 (NEAT1) and microRNA-455-3p (miR-455-3p) were investigated in pulmonary fibrosis. In this study, the mRNA expression levels of NEAT1, miR-455-3p and SMAD3 in the HPAEpiC alveolar and BEAS-2B bronchial epithelial cell lines were determined using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR, while the markers of epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT) and collagen production were determined using western blot analysis. A wound healing assay was performed to evaluate the migratory ability of the HPAEpiC and BEAS-2B cell lines. The interactions between NEAT1 and miR-455-3p or SMAD3 and miR-455-3p were validated using a luciferase reporter gene assay. The results showed that the mRNA expression levels of NEAT1 and SMAD3 were upregulated in the TGF-β1-treated HPAEpiC and BEAS-2B cell lines, while the mRNA expression level of miR-455-3p was significantly decreased. In addition, silencing NEAT1 effectively alleviated the migratory ability, EMT and collagen generation of the epithelial cells. Following these experiments, NEAT1 was identified as a sponge for miR-455-3p, and SMAD3 was a target gene of miR-455-3p. NEAT1 downregulation or miR-455-3p mimic inhibited the migratory ability, EMT and collagen production of the epithelial cells; however, the effects were reversed by the overexpression of SMAD3. Furthermore, NEAT1 knockdown reduced the expression level of SMAD3 by increasing the expression level of miR-455-3p to further inhibit the migratory ability, EMT and collagen production of epithelial cells.

LncRNA NEAT1 regulates the proliferation and production of the inflammatory cytokines in rheumatoid arthritis fibroblast-like synoviocytes by targeting miR-204-5p

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease, featured by erosive arthritis, which will eventually lead to deprivation normal functions of the joint and joint malformations. Continued illness also results in more serious complications, such as cardiovascular diseases and disability. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs) function in various conditions, including RA. LncRNA NEAT1 was reported to promote migration and invasion in RA-FLSs, functioning as a promising diagnostic and therapeutic indicator in RA. The present work focused on the role of lncRNA NEAT1 in RA and the related mechanism. We collected the synovial tissue samples of 30 RA patients and 20 healthy controls. Moreover, RA fibroblast-like synoviocytes (RA-FLSs) cell line was bought and treated with tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) to establish in vitro model of RA. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to determine the expression of NEAT1 in synovial tissue and RA-FLSs. NEAT1 silencing plasmid were synthesized and co-trasnfected with miR-204-5p inhibitor into RA-FLSs. MTT and 5-Ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine staining were used to assess cell proliferation. Flow cytometry and TUNEL assay were used to determine the cell apoptosis. miR-204-5p has been predicted as a target miRNA of NEAT1, and the interaction between NEAT1 and miR-204-5p was verified by dual-luciferase assay and RNA pull-down assay. qRT-PCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were used to determine the mRNA and protein concentration of interleukin-1β and interleukin-6. Finally, western blot assay was applied to measure the effect of NEAT1 and on p53, NF-κB, and p-NF-κB expressions. We found that NEAT1 was up-regulated, and miR-204-5p was down-regulated in the RA patients' synovial tissue and TNF-α treated RA-FLSs. TNF-α increased NEAT1 level and decreased miR-204-5p level in RA-FLSs. There was no significant variance of p53 after transfected with NEAT1 in RA-FLSs. Meanwhile, Knockdown of NEAT1 attenuated TNF-α-induced RA-FLSs cell proliferation and inflammatory cytokine production while promoted cell apoptosis by targeting miR-204-5p through NF-κB pathway. These findings indicated that NEAT1 may be developed as a potential target for patients with RA.

Investigation of circulating lncRNAs as potential biomarkers in chronic respiratory diseases

BACKGROUND

In the present study the blood expression level of inflammatory response and autoimmunity associated long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) were compared in patients with different chronic respiratory diseases and investigated whether they could be used as biomarkers in these diseases.

METHODS

In the discovery cohort, the gene expression level of 84 lncRNAs were measured in the blood of 24 adult patients including healthy controls and patients with asthma and COPD. In the replication cohort the expression of 6 selected lncRNAs were measured in 163 subjects including healthy controls and adults with allergic rhinitis, asthma, COPD and children with asthma. It was evaluated whether these lncRNAs can be used as diagnostic biomarkers for any studied disease. With systems biology analysis the biological functions of the selected lncRNAs were predicted.

RESULTS

In the discovery cohort, the mean expression of 27 lncRNAs showed nominally significant differences in at least one comparison. OIP5-AS1, HNRNPU, RP11-325K4.3, JPX, RP11-282O18.3, MZF1-AS1 were selected for measurement in the replication cohort. Three lncRNAs (HNRNPU, RP11-325K4.3, JPX) expressed significantly higher in healthy children than in adult controls. All the mean expression level of the 6 lncRNAs differed significantly between adult allergic rhinitis patients and controls. RP11-325K4.3, HNRNPU and OIP5-AS1 expressed higher in allergic asthma than in non-allergic asthma. COPD and asthma differed in the expression of RP11-325K4.3 from each other. In examining of the lncRNAs as biomarkers the weighted accuracy (WA) values were especially high in the comparison of healthy controls and patients with allergic rhinitis. OIP5-AS1 and JPX achieved 0.98 and 0.9 WA values, respectively, and the combination of the selected lncRNAs also resulted in a high performance (WA = 0.98). Altogether, OIP5-AS1 had the highest discriminative power in case of three out of six comparisons.

CONCLUSION

Differences were detected in the expression of circulating lncRNAs in chronic respiratory diseases. Some of these differences might be utilized as biomarkers and also suggest a possible role of these lncRNAs in the pathomechanism of these diseases. The lncRNAs and the associated pathways are potential therapeutic targets in these diseases, but naturally additional studies are needed for the confirmation of these results.

Long Non-Coding RNA H19 Participates in Periodontal Inflammation via Activation of Autophagy

Purpose

Periodontitis is the leading cause of tooth loss. The role of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) in periodontal inflammation remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of lncRNA H19 in periodontitis and its possible regulation of autophagy in periodontitis.

Material and Methods

Inflammation level was determined by quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in periodontal ligament cells (PDLCs). Western blotting, flow cytometric analysis, and immunofluorescence staining were used to detect the autophagy flux. Overexpression or knockdown of H19 was used to confirm its function. Ligature-induced periodontitis model in mice and periodontitis-affected human gingival tissue were used in vivo. RNA sequencing was performed to determine the differentially expressed genes.

Results

Autophagy was significantly increased in PDLCs after inflammatory stimulation as well as in a ligature-induced periodontitis model in mice and periodontitis-affected human gingival tissue. During the inflammatory process, H19 expression was also significantly upregulated. Further, the levels of autophagic markers were significantly upregulated after overexpressing H19 in PDLCs, and the increased autophagic activity induced by inflammatory stimulation was reversed by H19 knockdown. RNA sequencing showed that the expression profiles of mRNAs were significantly altered after H19 overexpression, and the differentially expressed genes were enriched in the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, which was confirmed by the decreased p-AKT protein expression in the H19 overexpression group.

Conclusion

Periodontal inflammation activates autophagy flux, and H19 mediates the activation of autophagy via AKT pathway in periodontitis. This study expands our understanding of molecular regulation in periodontitis.

Long Noncoding RNAs in the Regulation of Asthma: Current Research and Clinical Implications

Asthma is a chronic airway inflammatory disorder related to variable expiratory airflow limitation, leading to wheeze, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and cough. Its characteristic features include airway inflammation, airway remodeling and airway hyperresponsiveness. The pathogenesis of asthma remains extremely complicated and the detailed mechanisms are not clarified. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been reported to play a prominent role in asthma and function as modulators of various aspects in pathological progress of asthma. Here, we summarize recent advances of lncRNAs in asthma pathogenesis to guide future researches, clinical treatment and drug development, including their regulatory functions in the T helper (Th) 1/Th2 imbalance, Th17/T regulatory (Treg) imbalance, eosinophils dysfunction, macrophage polarization, airway smooth muscle cells proliferation, and glucocorticoid insensitivity.

Long non-coding RNA NEAT1 overexpression associates with increased exacerbation risk, severity, and inflammation, as well as decreased lung function through the interaction with microRNA-124 in asthma

Background

This study aimed to explore the association of long non‐coding RNA nuclear‐enriched abundant transcript 1 (lncRNA NEAT1) with exacerbation risk, lung function, and inflammatory cytokines in asthma.

Methods

A total of 170 patients with asthma in exacerbation, 170 patients with asthma in remission, and 170 healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled, and their plasma samples were collected. The expressions of lncRNA NEAT1 and microRNA‐124 (miRNA‐124) in plasma were detected by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction; inflammatory cytokines in plasma were measured by the Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA); and pulmonary ventilation function was detected by examination of forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC).

Results

LncRNA NEAT1 expression was upregulated in asthma patients in exacerbation compared with HCs and asthma patients in remission, and receiver operating characteristic curve exhibited that it was of good value in distinguishing asthma patients in exacerbation from HCs (AUC: 0.869 (0.830‐0.908)) and asthma patients in remission (AUC: 0.775 (0.724‐0.825)). Furthermore, lncRNA NEAT1 was positively correlated with exacerbation severity, TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐17, but negatively correlated with IL‐10, FEV₁/FVC and FEV₁%predicted in asthma patients. Additionally, lncRNA NEAT1 was negatively correlated with miR‐124, and miR‐124 was negatively associated with exacerbation risk, exacerbation severity, and inflammation, but positively associated with lung function in asthma patients.

Conclusion

Circulating lncRNA NEAT1 exhibits potential to be a new biomarker for elevated exacerbation risk and severity of asthma.