OncomiR miR-96 and miR-182 promote cell proliferation and invasion through targeting ephrinA5 in hepatocellular carcinoma

MiR-216a-3p inhibits the cytotoxicity of primary natural killer cells

INTRODUCTION

The role of miRNAs in regulating variable molecular functions has been sought by scientists for its promising utility in regulating the immune response and, hence, in treating various diseases. In hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) specifically, a reduction in the number and efficiency of circulating and intrahepatic natural killer (NK) cells has been reported. Our project aims to investigate the role of miR-216a-3p in the regulation of NK cell cytotoxicity, especially since it plays a tumor suppressor role in the context of HCC.

METHODS

To achieve our aim, we isolated NK cells from the whole blood of 86 patients with HCC and 23 healthy controls. We assessed the expression profile of miR-216a-3p in NK cells of patients and controls. Furthermore, we induced the expression of miR-216a-3p in NK cells isolated from healthy controls, followed by measuring the release of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), perforins (PRF) and granzyme B (GrB) using ELISA as well as NK cells cytolytic activity against Huh7 cells using lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) cytotoxicity assay. After that, we performed an in silico analysis to understand the mechanistic regulation imposed by miR-216a-3p on NK cells to study its impact on one of its potential downstream targets.

RESULTS

Our results have indicated that miR-216a-3p has higher expression in NK cells of patients with HCC, and simulating this elevated expression pattern via forcing miR-216a-3p expression in normal NK cells has negatively impacted the release of TNF- α, IFN- γ, GrB, and PRF. Consequently, a decrease in cell cytolysis was observed. Our in silico analysis revealed that the predicted downstream targets of miR-216a-3p are enriched in the FOXO-signaling pathway. Among those targets is FOXO-1, which has been reported to play a role in NK cell maturation. Thus, we evaluated FOXO-1 expression upon mimicking miR-216a-3p in control NK cells that showed significant downregulation of FOXO-1 on both RNA and protein levels.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, we report miR-216-3p as a negative regulator of NK cell cytotoxicity.

Knockdown of miR-182 changes the sensitivity of triple-negative breast cancer cells to cisplatin

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy that affects women. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play an essential role in cancer therapy and regulate many biological processes such as cisplatin resistance. The study's objective was to determine whether miR-182 dysregulation was the cause of cisplatin resistance in TNBC cell line MDA-MB-231. To determine the expression of miR-182, PCR was performed with primers specific to miR-182, and agarose gel electrophoresis was performed. To reduce the expression of miR-182 in MDA-MB-231 cells, anti-miR-182 oligonucleotides were used. RT-qPCR was used to confirm knockdown. The knockdown and control groups were treated with cisplatin at the same time. Propidium iodide (PI) and Annexin V staining were performed for apoptosis assay. Flow cytometric analysis was used to investigate the effect of miR-182 knockdown on cell cycle arrest. In comparison to untreated control MDA-MB-231 cells with MDA-MB-231 cells treated with anti-miR-182, there was a significant increase in the cisplatin-induced early apoptosis phase (p = 0.023). Also, inhibition of miR-182 significantly increased the cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase in MDA-MB-231 cells (p = 0.031). Our results revealed that miR-182 inhibition may play a role in the overcoming of cisplatin resistance by inducing apoptosis and, cell cycle arrest in TNBC.

Advances and current concepts on Eph receptors and ephrins in upper digestive tract cancers

Erythropoietin-producing hepatocellular (Eph) receptors comprise the largest group of surface receptors and are responsible for cellular signals. Eph/ephrin signaling has been identified to play a role in key cancer development and progression processes, especially in the upper gastrointestinal tract. The Eph/ephrin system has been described as a tumor suppressor in duodenal cancer, while in esophageal, gastric, hepatic, and pancreatic cancer, the system has been related to tumor progression. For their significant role in developing a wide range of malignancies, Eph receptors and their ligands have proven to be an important target for new anticancer therapies. In this review, we present an overview of the literature and highlight evidence supporting the role of the Eph/ephrin system in upper digestive tract cancers. In addition, we discuss molecular findings that represent promising therapeutic targets for these cancers.

Bioinformatics and Experimental Insights Into miR-182, hsa_circ_0070269, and circ-102,166 as Therapeutic Targets for HCV-Associated HCC

AIMS

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a type of malignant tumor and the sixth leading cause of death worldwide. It is caused by HBV, HCV infection, and alcohol consumption. MicroRNAs are typically small, non-coding RNAs that are involved in the regulation of mRNA expression. Recent studies revealed miRNAs' regulatory roles in liver cancer, linked to risk factors like HCV, HBV infection, alcoholism, drug use, and auto-immune hepatic disorders. Circular RNAs also belong to the class of non-coding RNAs; they act as ceRNAs to regulate miRNA expression and regulate different oncogenic pathways in HCC progression. This study aimed to check the hsa_circ_0070269, circ-102,166 (hsa_circ_0004913), and miR-182 expression in HCV induced HCC patients.

METHODS

Data analysis was used to find out studies related to the role of hsa_circ_0070269, circ-102,166, and miR-182 in HCC; miR-182 targeted genes, their role in different diseases; and miR-182 interactions with hsa_circ_0070269 and circ-102,166 in the HCC. It was revealed that the hsa_circ_0070269, circ-102,166, and miR-182 correlations in HCV induced HCC have not been explored yet. Therefore, to validate data from literature mining, expression analysis of dysregulated hsa_circ_0070269, circ-102,166, and miR-182 was performed in HCV induced HCC patients using RT-PCR.

RESULTS

It was found that miR-182 was significantly upregulated and acts as an oncomiRNA in HCV induced HCC, and hsa_circ_0070269 and circ-102,166 were downregulated in HCV induced HCC. We have identified that miR-182 relative expression level was significantly high (p < 0.0029), while has_circ_0070269 (p < 0.002) and circ-102,166 (p < 0.002) were significantly downregulated in HCV-HCC patients as compared to expression in healthy individuals.

CONCLUSION

Our data revealed that miR-182 acts as an oncomiRNA in HCC development. Hsa_circ_0070269 and circ-102,166 are highly expressed in healthy controls compared to HCV induced HCC patients, can sponge miR-182 expression by acting as tumor suppressors, and can be used as biomarkers and targets for HCC treatment.

Evaluation of the effect of GSK-3β on liver cancer based on the PI3K/AKT pathway

The PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β signaling pathway plays a pivotal role in numerous physiological and pathological processes, including cell proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation, and metabolic regulation. Aberrant activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway is intricately linked to development of tumor. GSK-3β, belonging to the serine/threonine protein kinase family, is crucial in the pathogenesis of liver cancer. As a key rate-limiting enzyme in the glucose metabolism pathway, GSK-3β significantly impacts the growth, proliferation, metastasis, and apoptosis of liver cancer cells. It is also implicated in chemotherapy resistance. Elevated expression of GSK-3β diminishes the sensitivity of liver cancer cells to chemotherapeutic agents, thereby playing a substantial role in the development of drug resistance. Consequently, targeting of GSK-3β, particularly within the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, is regarded as a promising therapeutic strategy for liver cancer. The precise identification and subsequent modulation of this pathway represent a substantial potential for innovative clinical interventions in the management of liver cancer.

Targeting non-coding RNAs and N6-methyladenosine modification in hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common form of primary liver cancers, accounts for a significant portion of cancer-related death globally. However, the molecular mechanisms driving the onset and progression of HCC are still not fully understood. Emerging evidence has indicated that non-protein-coding regions of genomes could give rise to transcripts, termed non-coding RNA (ncRNA), forming novel functional driving force for aberrant cellular activity. Over the past decades, overwhelming evidence has denoted involvement of a complex array of molecular function of ncRNAs at different stages of HCC tumorigenesis and progression. In this context, several pre-clinical studies have highlighted the potentials of ncRNAs as novel therapeutic modalities in the management of human HCC. Moreover, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification, the most prevalent form of internal mRNA modifications in mammalian cells, is essential for the governance of biological processes within cells. Dysregulation of m6A in ncRNAs has been implicated in human carcinogenesis, including HCC. In this review, we will discuss dysregulation of several hallmark ncRNAs (miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs) in HCC and address the latest advances for their involvement in the onset and progression of HCC. We also focus on dysregulation of m6A modification and various m6A regulators in the etiology of HCC. In the end, we discussed the contemporary preclinical and clinical application of ncRNA-based and m6A-targeted therapies in HCC.

Epigenetic disruption of the RARγ complex impairs its function to bookmark AR enhancer interactions required for enzalutamide sensitivity in prostate cancer

The current study in prostate cancer (PCa) focused on the genomic mechanisms at the cross-roads of pro-differentiation signals and the emergence of lineage plasticity. We explored an understudied cistromic mechanism involving RARγ's ability to govern AR cistrome-transcriptome relationships, including those associated with more aggressive PCa features. The RARγ complex in PCa cell models was enriched for canonical cofactors, as well as proteins involved in RNA processing and bookmarking. Identifying the repertoire of miR-96 bound and regulated gene targets, including those recognition elements marked by m6A, revealed their significant enrichment in the RARγ complex. RARγ significantly enhanced the AR cistrome, particularly in active enhancers and super-enhancers, and overlapped with the binding of bookmarking factors. Furthermore, RARγ expression led to nucleosome-free chromatin enriched with H3K27ac, and significantly enhanced the AR cistrome in G2/M cells. RARγ functions also antagonized the transcriptional actions of the lineage master regulator ONECUT2. Similarly, gene programs regulated by either miR-96 or antagonized by RARγ were enriched in alternative lineages and more aggressive PCa phenotypes. Together these findings reveal an under-investigated role for RARγ, modulated by miR-96, to bookmark enhancer sites during mitosis. These sites are required by the AR to promote transcriptional competence, and emphasize luminal differentiation, while antagonizing ONECUT2.

Axon guidance molecules in liver pathology: Journeys on a damaged passport

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The liver is an innervated organ that develops a variety of chronic liver disease (CLD). Axon guidance cues (AGCs), of which ephrins, netrins, semaphorins and slits are the main representative, are secreted or membrane-bound proteins that can attract or repel axons through interactions with their growth cones that contain receptors recognizing these messengers. While fundamentally implicated in the physiological development of the nervous system, the expression of AGCs can also be reinduced under acute or chronic conditions, such as CLD, that necessitate redeployment of neural networks.

METHODS

This review considers the ad hoc literature through the neglected canonical neural function of these proteins that is also applicable to the diseased liver (and not solely their observed parenchymal impact).

RESULTS

AGCs impact fibrosis regulation, immune functions, viral/host interactions, angiogenesis, and cell growth, both at the CLD and HCC levels. Special attention has been paid to distinguishing correlative and causal data in such datasets in order to streamline data interpretation. While hepatic mechanistic insights are to date limited, bioinformatic evidence for the identification of AGCs mRNAs positive cells, protein expression, quantitative regulation, and prognostic data have been provided. Liver-pertinent clinical studies based on the US Clinical Trials database are listed. Future research directions derived from AGC targeting are proposed.

CONCLUSION

This review highlights frequent implication of AGCs in CLD, linking traits of liver disorders and the local autonomic nervous system. Such data should contribute to diversifying current parameters of patient stratification and our understanding of CLD.

The emerging role of MicroRNA-182 in tumorigenesis; a promising therapeutic target

A wide range of studies have indicated that microRNAs (miRNAs), a type of small single-stranded regulatory RNAs, are dysregulated in a different variety of human cancers. Therefore, they are expected to play important roles in tumorigenesis by functioning as oncogenic (oncomiRs) or tumor-suppressive miRNAs. Subsequently, their potential as diagnostic and therapeutic targets for malignancies has attracted attention in recent years. In particular, studies have revealed the aberrant expression of miR-182 through tumorigenesis and its important roles in various aspects of malignancies, including proliferation, metastasis, and chemoresistance. Accumulating reports have illustrated that miR-182, as a dual-role regulator, directly or indirectly regulates the expression of a wide range of genes and modulates the activity of various signaling pathways involved in tumor progression, such as JAK / STAT3, Wnt / β-catenin, TGF-β, and P13K / AKT. Therefore, considering the high therapeutic and diagnostic potential of miR-182, this review aims to point out the effects of miR-182 dysregulation on the signaling pathways involved in tumorigenesis.

Unraveling the Significance of EPH/Ephrin Signaling in Liver Cancer: Insights into Tumor Progression and Therapeutic Implications

Liver cancer is a complex and challenging disease with limited treatment options and dismal prognosis. Understanding the underlying molecular mechanisms driving liver cancer progression and metastasis is crucial for developing effective therapeutic strategies. The EPH/ephrin system, which comprises a family of cell surface receptors and their corresponding ligands, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of HCC. This review paper aims to provide an overview of the current understanding of the role of the EPH/ephrin system in HCC. Specifically, we discuss the dysregulation of EPH/ephrin signaling in HCC and its impact on various cellular processes, including cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Overall, the EPH/ephrin signaling system emerges as a compelling and multifaceted player in liver cancer biology. Elucidating its precise mechanisms and understanding its implications in disease progression and therapeutic responses may pave the way for novel targeted therapies and personalized treatment approaches for liver cancer patients. Further research is warranted to unravel the full potential of the EPH/ephrin system in liver cancer and its clinical translation.

MiR-182-5p Is Upregulated in Hepatic Tissues from a Diet-Induced NAFLD/NASH/HCC C57BL/6J Mouse Model and Modulates Cyld and Foxo1 Expression

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is considered a relevant liver chronic disease. Variable percentages of NAFLD cases progress from steatosis to steatohepatitis (NASH), cirrhosis and, eventually, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this study, we aimed to deepen our understanding of expression levels and functional relationships between miR-182-5p and Cyld-Foxo1 in hepatic tissues from C57BL/6J mouse models of diet-induced NAFL/NASH/HCC progression. A miR-182-5p increase was detected early in livers as NAFLD damage progressed, and in tumors compared to peritumor normal tissues. An in vitro assay on HepG2 cells confirmed Cyld and Foxo1, both tumor-suppressor, as miR-182-5p target genes. According to miR-182-5p expression, decreased protein levels were observed in tumors compared to peritumor tissues. Analysis of miR-182-5p, Cyld and Foxo1 expression levels, based on datasets from human HCC samples, showed results consistent with those from our mouse models, and also highlighted the ability of miR-182-5p to distinguish between normal and tumor tissues (AUC 0.83). Overall, this study shows, for the first time, miR-182-5p overexpression and Cyld-Foxo1 downregulation in hepatic tissues and tumors from a diet-induced NAFLD/HCC mouse model. These data were confirmed by the analysis of datasets from human HCC samples, highlighting miR-182-5p diagnostic accuracy and demonstrating the need for further studies to assess its potential role as a biomarker or therapeutic target.

The role of miRNAs in liver diseases: Potential therapeutic and clinical applications

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of short, non-coding RNAs that function post-transcriptionally to regulate gene expression by binding to particular mRNA targets and causing destruction of the mRNA or translational inhibition of the mRNA. The miRNAs control the range of liver activities, from the healthy to the unhealthy. Considering that miRNA dysregulation is linked to liver damage, fibrosis, and tumorigenesis, miRNAs are a promising therapeutic strategy for the evaluation and treatment of liver illnesses. Recent findings on the regulation and function of miRNAs in liver diseases are discussed, with an emphasis on miRNAs that are highly expressed or enriched in hepatocytes. Alcohol-related liver illness, acute liver toxicity, viral hepatitis, hepatocellular carcinoma, liver fibrosis, liver cirrhosis, and exosomes in chronic liver disease all emphasize the roles and target genes of these miRNAs. We briefly discuss the function of miRNAs in the etiology of liver diseases, namely in the transfer of information between hepatocytes and other cell types via extracellular vesicles. Here we offer some background on the use of miRNAs as biomarkers for the early prognosis, diagnosis, and assessment of liver diseases. The identification of biomarkers and therapeutic targets for liver disorders will be made possible by future research into miRNAs in the liver, which will also help us better understand the pathogeneses of liver diseases.

GPM6A expression is suppressed in hepatocellular carcinoma through miRNA-96 production

GPM6A is a glycoprotein in endothelial cells, and its biological function in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is unknown. Through Affymetrix gene expression microarray and bioinformatic analysis, very low GPM6A expression was found in HCC tissue. The present study aims to explore the function and regulatory mechanism of GPM6A in HCC development and progression. Levels of GPM6A expression in HCC specimens from different disorders and various hepatoma cell lines were determined, and its role on cell proliferation was evaluated in hepatoma cells stably overexpressing GPM6A. Modulation of a specific microRNA (miRNA) on its expression and function was evaluated with miRNA mimetic transfection. Herein, it is reported that much lower GPM6A levels were found in HCC tissues than pericancerous liver tissues and correlated to a poor prognosis. GPM6A overexpression inhibited cell proliferation, suppressed colony formation, migration and invasion in two hepatoma cell types. Available evidence does not support that genetic and epigenetic dysregulation contributes significantly to GPM6A inactivation in HCC. Additional findings demonstrated that miR-96-5p acted directly on the 3'-UTR of the GPM6A gene and significantly decreased its mRNA and protein levels. MiR-96-5p transfection promoted proliferation, migration and invasion of SMMC-7721 and MHCC-97H hepatoma cells; whereas the function of oncogenic microRNA-96 was significantly inhibited in GPM6A-overexpressed hepatoma cells. In conclusion, GPM6A expression in HCC is commonly suppressed regardless its base disease types, and its low expression in HCC tissues is most likely attributed to upregulated miR-96-5p. GPM6A may function as a valuable biomarker for HCC progression and prognosis.

Non-Coding RNAs in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Liver cancer ranks as the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Despite extensive research efforts aiming to evaluate the biological mechanisms underlying hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development, little has been translated towards new diagnostic and treatment options for HCC patients. Historically, the focus has been centered on coding RNAs and their respective proteins. However, significant advances in sequencing and RNA detection technologies have shifted the research focus towards non-coding RNAs (ncRNA), as well as their impact on HCC development and progression. A number of studies reported complex post-transcriptional interactions between various ncRNA and coding RNA molecules. These interactions offer insights into the role of ncRNAs in both the known pathways leading to oncogenesis, such as dysregulation of p53, and lesser-known mechanisms, such as small nucleolar RNA methylation. Studies investigating these mechanisms have identified prevalent ncRNA changes in microRNAs, snoRNAs, and long non-coding RNAs that can both pre- and post-translationally regulate key factors in HCC progression. In this review, we present relevant publications describing ncRNAs to summarize the impact of different ncRNA species on liver cancer development and progression and to evaluate recent attempts at clinical translation.

Expression characteristic, immune signature, and prognosis value of EFNA family identified by multi-omics integrative analysis in pan-cancer

Background

EphrinA (EFNA) are Eph receptor ligands that regulate various disease processes. Nonetheless, the expression characteristics of EFNAs in pan-cancer, their relationship with tumor immune microenvironment, and prognostic value landscape remain unknown.

Methods

A comprehensive landscape of EFNAs was created using various statistical data extracted from 33 cancers. Subsequently, we identified differential expression, genetic variations, potential function enrichment, tumor immune-related analysis, and drug sensitivity. Further, we investigated the clinical features and diagnostic prognostic value of EFNAs. RT-qPCR, western blot and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were used to validate the expression level and significant clinical value of EFNA5 in lung adenocarcinoma cell lines and tissues.

Results

EFNAs were highly mutated in various cancers. Genomic and epigenetic alterations of EFNAs were observed in various tumors, where an oncogenic mutation in specific cancer types potentially affected EFNA expression. Moreover, tumor-derived EFNAs were significantly related to the tumor immune microenvironment, suggesting that they are promising therapeutic targets. The majority of EFNA family genes were significantly linked to patient prognosis. Eventually, EFNA5 was an independent prognostic factor in lung adenocarcinoma.

Conclusion

In summary, EFNAs are crucial in tumor immune regulation, and EFNA5 is a prognostic marker in lung adenocarcinoma. Our findings provide new insights into EFNAs from a bioinformatics standpoint and highlight the significance of EFNAs in cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-022-09951-0.

ADAM10-cleaved ephrin-A5 contributes to prostate cancer metastasis

A disintegrin and metalloprotease-10(ADAM10) promotes the metastasis of prostate cancer (PCa), but the specific mechanism is indistinct. Herein, DU145 cell lines with stable overexpression and knockdown of ADAM10 were constructed. We found that ectopic expression of ADAM10 not only significantly facilitated cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and inhibited apoptosis, but also could specifically hydrolyze ephrin-A5 and release the ephrin-A5 soluble ectodomain into extracellular media in vitro. These effects were reversed by ADAM10 depletion or treatment of GI254023X. Meanwhile, the co-location and physical interaction among EphA3, ephrin-A5, and ADAM10 were observed in PCa cells using immunofluorescence and immunoprecipitation techniques. Interestingly, overexpression of EphA3 exerted opposite effects in DU145 (ephrin-A5 + ) cells and PC-3 (ephrin-A5 ± ) cells. In addition, the pro-tumor function of EphA3 was reversed by the treatment with the exogenous ephrin-A5-Fc, which increased the phosphorylation level of EphA3 in PC-3 (ephrin-A5 ± ) cells. In nude mice, ADAM10 accelerated growth of the primary tumor, decreased the level of ephrin-A5 in the tumor tissue, but increased the level of ephrin-A5 in the peripheral blood, accompanied with an increase in the expression of CD31 and VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) in the tissue. What is more, the serum ephrin-A5 content of patients with metastatic PCa was significantly higher than that of the non-metastatic group (P < 0.05). The receiver operating characteristic curve(ROC) showed that the area under the curve(AUC) of serum ephrin-A5 as a marker of PCa metastasis was 0.843, with a sensitivity of 93.5% and a specificity of 75%. It is concluded that ADAM10-mediated ephrin-A5 shedding promotes PCa metastasis via transforming the role of EphA3 from ligand-dependent tumor suppressor to ligand-independent promoter, and ephrin-A5 in the blood can be used as a new biomarker for PCa metastasis.

Identification of potential microRNA groups for the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) using microarray datasets and bioinformatics tools

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver malignancy and the third cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Potential microRNAs have been reported as biomarkers for early detection of HCC as well as novel molecular targets for HCC treatment. Various tissue expression profiles of miRNAs using three microarray datasets from groups in Asia (2), Europe, America (GSE147892, GSE21362, GSE74618, GSE40744) and multiple bioinformatics tools were integrated to determine the most significant miRNA groups to assist in the diagnosis of HCC. Statistical analyses identified at least 30 miRNAs with 17 up-regulated and 13 down-regulated in HCC-related tumor tissues. All the miRNAs also showed relevance to the hallmarks of cancer such as cell proliferation, invasion, metastasis, angiogenesis, metabolism, epithelial-mesenchymal transition and apoptosis. Expression levels of miRNAs observed in the European group showed up-regulation at 5–37% compared to both Asian and American groups. Interestingly, four miRNAs divided into two groups as miR-182-5p/miR-1269a and miR-199a/miR-422a were the most promising for diagnosis of HCC patients from healthy controls, with AUC values of 0.902 and 0.892, respectively. Results provided evidence of the correlation between potential miRNAs and HCC that could be useful for disease diagnosis based on in-depth analyses of large case numbers and cohort studies.

Identification of microRNA-96-5p as a postoperative, prognostic microRNA predictor in nonviral hepatocellular carcinoma

AIM

The microRNA (miR) clusters miR-183/96/182 and miR-217/216a/216b are significantly upregulated in nonviral hepatocellular carcinoma (NBNC-HCC). Here, we investigate the impact of each member of these clusters on the clinical outcome of NBNC-HCC and analyze the antitumor effects of miR-96-5p.

METHODS

The association between recurrence-free survival of 111 NBNC-HCC patients and the levels of miR-183-5p, miR-96-5p, miR-182-5p, miR-217-5p, miR-216a-5p, and miR-216b-5p in tumor and adjacent tissues was investigated. The impact of miR-96-5p on apoptosis and invasion of a hepatoma cell line, HepG2, was investigated by cell counting, Transwell assay, and flow cytometry, respectively.

RESULTS

MicroRNA-183-5p, miR-96-5p, miR-182-5p, miR-217-5p, and miR-216b-5p were significantly upregulated in tumor tissues compared to the adjacent tissues (p = 0.0005, p = 0.0030, p = 0.0002, p = 0.0011, and p = 0.0288, respectively). By multivariate Cox regression analysis, high tumor/adjacent ratios of miR-182-5p (p = 0.007) and miR-217-5p (p = 0.008) were associated with poor recurrence-free survival. In contrast, a low tumor/adjacent ratio of miR-96-5p (p < 0.001) was associated with poor recurrence-free survival. It suggested that further upregulation of miR-96-5p in tumors might have an inhibitory effect on recurrence. Transfection of miR-96-5p mimic significantly induced apoptosis of HepG2 cells, in association with downregulation of Nucleophosmin 1 (NPM1) and a decrease of phosphorylated AKT protein. Interestingly, simultaneous knockdown of the NPM1 and AKT genes induced apoptosis. MicroRNA-96-5p also suppressed proliferation and invasion, which inhibited epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition of HCC cells.

CONCLUSION

MicroRNA-96-5p as a tumor suppressor would be valuable to stratify NBNC-HCC patients at high risk of recurrence.

MicroRNA-96: A therapeutic and diagnostic tumor marker

Cancer has been always considered as one of the main human health challenges worldwide. One of the main causes of cancer-related mortality is late diagnosis in the advanced stages of the disease, which reduces the therapeutic efficiency. Therefore, novel non-invasive diagnostic methods are required for the early detection of tumors and improving the quality of life and survival in cancer patients. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have pivotal roles in various cellular processes such as cell proliferation, motility, and neoplastic transformation. Since circulating miRNAs have high stability in body fluids, they can be suggested as efficient noninvasive tumor markers. MiR-96 belongs to the miR-183-96-182 cluster that regulates cell migration and tumor progression as an oncogene or tumor suppressor by targeting various genes in solid tumors. In the present review, we have summarized all of the studies that assessed the role of miR-96 during tumor progression. This review clarifies the molecular mechanisms and target genes recruited by miR-96 to regulate tumor progression and metastasis. It was observed that miR-96 mainly affects tumorigenesis by targeting the structural proteins and FOXO transcription factors.

MicroRNAs: The Link between the Metabolic Syndrome and Oncogenesis

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) represents a cluster of disorders that increase the risk of a plethora of conditions, in particular type two diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain types of cancers. MetS is a complex entity characterized by a chronic inflammatory state that implies dysregulations of adipokins and proinflammatory cytokins together with hormonal and growth factors imbalances. Of great interest is the implication of microRNA (miRNA, miR), non-coding RNA, in cancer genesis, progression, and metastasis. The adipose tissue serves as an important source of miRs, which represent a novel class of adipokines, that play a crucial role in carcinogenesis. Altered miRs secretion in the adipose tissue, in the context of MetS, might explain their implication in the oncogenesis. The interplay between miRs expressed in adipose tissue, their dysregulation and cancer pathogenesis are still intriguing, taking into consideration the fact that miRNAs show both carcinogenic and tumor suppressor effects. The aim of our review was to discuss the latest publications concerning the implication of miRs dysregulation in MetS and their significance in tumoral signaling pathways. Furthermore, we emphasized the role of miRNAs as potential target therapies and their implication in cancer progression and metastasis.

Circular RNA circ-102,166 acts as a sponge of miR-182 and miR-184 to suppress hepatocellular carcinoma proliferation and invasion

PURPOSE

Multiple circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been reported to be dysregulated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, their functions and modes of action are still largely unclear. Identifying key circRNAs and revealing their potential functions and molecular mechanisms is considered important for improving the diagnosis and treatment of HCC.

METHODS

Dysregulated circRNAs in HCC were identified through integration of three human HCC circRNAs microarray datasets (GSE94508, GSE97332 and GSE 78520), followed by qRT-PCR validation in primary HCC tissues and cell lines. circRNA characteristics were verified through Sanger sequencing, RNase R treatment, northern blotting and intracellular localization analyses. In addition, circRNA functions in HCC development were assessed using CCK8, colony formation, EDU incorporation, flow cytometry, transwell and scratch wound healing assays in vitro and tumor xenograft assays in vivo. Next, underlying molecular mechanisms in HCC were assessed using dual-luciferase reporter, RNA pull-down, RNA immunoprecipitation and western blotting assays.

RESULTS

We found that a novel circular RNA, circ-102,166, was down-regulated in HCC and that its expression level was significantly associated with multiple clinicopathologic characteristics, as well as the clinical prognosis of HCC patients. In vitro and in vivo experiments revealed that circ-102,166 overexpression significantly inhibited the proliferation, invasion, migration and tumorigenicity of HCC cells. Furthermore, we found that circ-102,166 can bind to miR-182 and miR-184 to regulate the expression of several of their downstream targets (FOXO3a, MTSS1, SOX7, p-RB and c-MYC).

CONCLUSION

Our data revealed a tumor-suppressing role of circ-102,166 in HCC. Down-regulation of circ-102,166 enhanced the proliferation and invasion of HCC cells by releasing the oncomiRs miR-182 and miR-184.

MiR-19a/miR-96-mediated low expression of KIF26A suppresses metastasis by regulating FAK pathway in gastric cancer

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common malignant neoplasms. Invasion and metastasis are the main causes of GC-related deaths. Recently, kinesins were discovered to be involved in tumor development. The aim of this study was to elucidate the roles of kinesin superfamily protein 26A (KIF26A) in GC and its underlying molecular mechanism in regulating tumor invasion and metastasis. Using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and immunohistochemistry (IHC), we showed that KIF26A expression was lower in GC tissues without lymph node metastasis (LNM) than in nontumorous gastric mucosa, and even lower in GC tissues with LNM than in GC tissues without LNM. Functional experiments showed that KIF26A inhibited migration and invasion of GC cells. We further identified focal-adhesion kinase (FAK), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase regulatory subunit alpha (PI3KR1), VAV3, Rac1 and p21-activated kinase 2, and β-PAK (PAK3) as downstream effectors of KIF26A in the focal-adhesion pathway, and we found that KIF26A could regulate FAK mRNA expression through inhibiting c-MYC by MAPK pathway. c-MYC could bind to the promoter of FAK and activate FAK transcription. Moreover, we found that KIF26A-mediated inactivation of the focal-adhesion pathway could reduce the occurrence of the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) by increasing expression of E-cadherin and reducing that of Snail. Luciferase assays and Western blotting revealed that miR-19a and miR-96 negatively regulate KIF26A. Finally, we found that decreased expression of KIF26A has been positively correlated with histological differentiation, Lauren classification, LNM, distal metastasis, and clinical stage, as well as poor survival in patients with GC. These data indicate that KIF26A could inhibit GC migration and invasion by regulating the focal-adhesion pathway and repressing the occurrence of EMT.

miR-96-5p enhances cell proliferation and invasion via targeted regulation of ZDHHC5 in gastric cancer

Objective: To explore the biological function and mechanism of miR-96-5p in gastric cancer.

Methods: The expression of differently expressed microRNAs (DEMs) related to gastric adenocarcinoma (GAC) prognosis was identified in GAC tumor samples and adjacent normal samples by qRT-PCR. A target gene miR-96-5p was selected using TargetScan, miRTarBase, miRDB databases. The combination of miR-96-5p and ZDHHC5 was verified by luciferase receptor assay. To further study the function and mechanism of miR-96-5p, we treated MGC-803 cells with miR-96-5p inhibitor and si-ZDHHC5, then detected cell viability, apoptosis, migration and invasion ability, as well as the expression of ZDHHC5, Bcl-2, Bax, cleaved caspase-3, cleaved caspase-9, and COX-2 by Western blot.

Results: Compared with adjacent normal samples, the levels of miR-96-5p, miR-222-5p, and miR-652-5p were remarkably increased, while miR-125-5p, miR-145-3p, and miR-379-3p were significantly reduced in GAC tumor samples (P<0.01), which were consistent with bioinformatics analysis. Furthermore, ZDHHC5 was defined as a direct target gene of miR-96-5p. miR-96-5p silence significantly reduced cell viability, increased cell apoptosis, and suppressed cell migration and invasion, as well as inhibited the expression of Bcl-2 and COX-2 and promoted Bax, cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved caspase-9 level in MGC-803 cells (P<0.01). Notably, ZDHHC5 silence reversed the inhibiting effects of miR-96-5p on MGC-803 cells growth and metastasis

Conclusion: Our findings identified six microRNAs (miRNAs; miR-96-5p, miR-222-5p, miR-652-5p, miR-125-5p, miR-145-3p, and miR-379-3p) related to GAC prognosis, and suggested that down-regulated miR-96-5p might inhibit tumor cell growth and metastasis via increasing ZDHHC5 expression enhance MGC-803 cell apoptosis, as well as decrease MGC-803 cell metastasis.

MicroRNA-126-5p suppresses cell proliferation, invasion and migration by targeting EGFR in liver cancer

BACKGROUND

The expression status and potential mechanistic involvement of microRNA (miR)-126-5p in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are still elusive currently. Here we set out to address this issue both in cell lines and in patients' tissues.

METHODS

The relative expression levels of endogenous miR-126-5p and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) were quantified by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Cell viability and proliferation were measured by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide and clonogenic assays, respectively. Cell invasive and migrative capacities were determined by transwell and wound healing assays, respectively. The regulatory action of miR-126-5p on EGFR was interrogated by luciferase reporter assay. Translational level of EGFR was analyzed by Western blotting.

RESULTS

MiR-126-5p was significantly down-regulated in both HCC patients' tissues and cell lines. Forced expression of miR-126-5p greatly compromised cell viability, proliferation, invasion and migration, while miR-126-5p-specific inhibitor promoted these oncogenic phenotypes. MiR-126-5p mimics inhibited endogenous expression of EGFR and suppressed EGFR 3'-untranslated region-fused luciferase activity. Co-expression of EGFR in miR-126-5p-proficient cells completely restored cell migrative and invasive capacities, while co-transfection with EGFR siRNA significantly inhibited miR-126-5p inhibitor-induced cell invasion and migration.

CONCLUSION

MiR-126-5p was aberrantly decreased in HCC and subsequently relieved the suppression on EGFR expression, which consequently contributed to the tumor biology of HCC.

OSCC Exosomes Regulate miR-210-3p Targeting EFNA3 to Promote Oral Cancer Angiogenesis through the PI3K/AKT Pathway

This study is aimed at determining how oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) regulates the angiogenesis of HUVECs through miR-210-3p expression and exploring the relationship among miR-210-3p, its target protein, and the possible mechanism of angiogenesis regulation. miR-210-3p expression was detected in OSCC tissues and juxta cancerous tissues (JCT), and the relationship among miR-210-3p, microvessel density (MVD), and histopathologic features was analyzed. A conditioned medium (CM) of the OSCC cell line CAL27 was collected to stimulate human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), and the miR-210-3p levels and tube formation capability of HUVECs were measured. The target protein level of miR-210-3p was altered; then, PI3K/AKT pathway activation in HUVECs was detected. miR-210-3p was tested in exosomes separated from CAL27 CM, and the transfer of miR-210-3p from OSCC exosomes to HUVECs was verified. Then, we found that the OSCC tissues had higher miR-210-3p levels than the JCT, and miR-210-3p level was positively correlated with MVD and tumor grade. CAL27 CM was able to elevate miR-210-3p levels in HUVECs and promoted tube formation. EFNA3 was the target gene of miR-210-3p, and ephrinA3 protein level was able to influence the migration and proliferation of HUVECs. The levels of phosphorylated AKT in the HUVECs increased when ephrinA3 was downregulated, and the upregulation of ephrinA3 resulted in the suppression of the PI3K/AKT pathway. miR-210-3p was detected in exosomes isolated from the CM of CAL27 cells, and miR-210-3p level in the HUVECs was elevated after absorbing the OSCC exosomes. In conclusion, miR-210-3p was more overexpressed in OSCC tissues than in the JCT. The exosomes secreted by OSCC cells were able to upregulate miR-210-3p expression and reduce ephrinA3 expression in HUVECs and promoted tube formation through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

Eph receptors as cancer targets for antibody-based therapy

Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are integral membrane sensors that govern cell differentiation, proliferation and mobility, and enable rapid communication between cells and their environment. Of the 20 RTK subfamilies currently known, Eph receptors are the largest group. Together with their corresponding ephrin ligands, Eph receptors regulate a diverse array of physiologic processes including axonal guidance, bone remodeling, and immune cell development and trafficking. Deregulation of Eph signaling pathways is linked to cancer and other proliferative diseases and, because RTKs play critical roles in cancer development, the specific targeting of these molecules in malignancies provides a promising treatment approach. Monoclonal antibodies targeting RTKs represent a potentially attractive modality for pharmaceutical development due to their relatively high target specificity and low off-target binding rates. Therefore, new technologies to generate antibodies able to target RTKs in their native in vivo context are likely to facilitate pre-clinical and clinical development of antibody-based therapies. Our group has recently reported a platform discovery methodology termed Selection of Phage-displayed Accessible Recombinant Targeted Antibodies (SPARTA). SPARTA is a novel and robust stepwise method, which combines the attributes of in vitro screenings of a naïve human recombinant antibody library against known tumor targets with those features of in vivo selections based on tumor-homing capabilities of a pre-enriched antibody pool. This unique approach overcomes several rate-limiting challenges to generate human monoclonal antibodies amenable to rapid translation into medical applications.

MicroRNA-96 Promotes Vascular Repair in Oxygen-Induced Retinopathy-A Novel Uncovered Vasoprotective Function

Background and Aims

Vascular degeneration is a hallmark in the pathogenesis of oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR). Dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs), key regulators of genes expressions, has been implicated in the regulation of ocular angiogenesis. However, miRNAs specific functions in impaired vascular development during OIR are poorly understood. Herein, we identified miR-96 as one of the most highly expressed miRNAs in the retina and choroid during vascular development and investigated the potential role of miR-96 on microvascular degeneration in a rat OIR model.

Methods and Results

Next generation sequencing (NGS) and qRT-PCR analysis showed that miR-96 maintain high levels of expression during ocular vascular development. Nevertheless, miR-96 was significantly downregulated in the retina and choroid of OIR rats (80% O₂ from P5 to P10) during the phase of microvascular degeneration. Similarly, human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (HRMEC) subjected to hyperoxia (80% O₂) showed a significant downregulation of miR-96 evaluated by qPCR. Interestingly, HRMEC supplemented with miR-96 regulated positively the expression of several key angiogenic factors including VEGF and ANG-2. To explore the angiogenic activity of miR-96 on HRMEC, we performed a gain/loss of function study. In a similar way to hyperoxia exposure, we observed a robust angiogenic impairment (tubulogenesis and migration) on HRMEC transfected with an antagomiR-96. Conversely, overexpression of miR-96 stimulated the angiogenic activity of HRMEC and protected against hyperoxia-induced endothelial dysfunction. Finally, we evaluated the potential vasoprotective function of miR-96 in OIR animals. Rat pups intravitreally supplemented with miR-96 mimic (1 mg/kg) displayed a significant preservation of retinal/choroidal microvessels at P10 compared to controls. This result was consistent with the maintenance of physiologic levels of VEGF and ANG-2 in the OIR retina.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that miR-96 regulates the expression of angiogenic factors (VEGF/ANG-2) associated to the maintenance of retinal and choroidal microvasculature during physiological and pathological conditions. Intravitreal supplementation of miR-96 mimic could constitute a novel therapeutic strategy to improve vascular repair in OIR and other ischemic retinopathies.

MicroRNAs and Metastasis

Metastasis, the development of secondary malignant growths at a distance from the primary site of a cancer, is associated with almost 90% of all cancer deaths, and half of all cancer patients present with some form of metastasis at the time of diagnosis. Consequently, there is a clear clinical need for a better understanding of metastasis. The role of miRNAs in the metastatic process is beginning to be explored. However, much is still to be understood. In this review, we present the accumulating evidence for the importance of miRNAs in metastasis as key regulators of this hallmark of cancer.

MiR-96-5p inhibition induces cell apoptosis in gastric adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Gastric adenocarcinoma (GAC) mortality rates have remained relatively changed over the past 30 years, and it continues to be one of the leading causes of cancer-related death.

AIM

To search for novel miRNAs related to GAC prognosis and further investigate the effect of miR-96-5p on MGC-803 cells.

METHODS

The miRNA expression profile data of GAC based on The Cancer Genome Atlas were obtained and used to screen differently expressed miRNAs (DEMs) and DEMs related to GAC prognosis. Then, the expression of DEMs related to GAC prognosis was identified in GAC tumor samples and adjacent normal samples by qRT-PCR. The target gene, ZDHHC5, of miR-96-5p was predicted using TargetScan, miRTarBase, and miRDB databases and confirmed by luciferase reporter assay. Furthermore, MGC-803 cells were transfected with inhibitor NC, miR-96-5p inhibitor, si-ZDHHC5, or miR-96-5p inhibitor + si-ZDHHC5, and then cell apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry. The expression of ZDHHC5, Bcl-2, and COX-2 was detected using western blotting.

RESULTS

A total of 299 DEMs and 35 DEMs related to GAC prognosis were screened based on The Cancer Genome Atlas. Then compared with adjacent normal samples, the levels of miR-96-5p, miR-222-5p, and miR-652-5p were remarkably increased, while miR-125-5p, miR-145-3p, and miR-379-3p levels were reduced in GAC tumor samples (P < 0.01), which were consistent with bioinformatics analysis. Furthermore, ZDHHC5 was defined as a direct target gene of miR-96-5p. miR-96-5p inhibition increased the number of apoptotic cells as well as promoted the expression of ZDHHC5, Bcl-2, and COX-2 in MGC-803 cells (P < 0.01). After ZDHHC5 inhibition, the number of apoptotic cells and the expression of ZDHHC5, Bcl-2, and COX-2 were reduced. The addition of an miR-96-5p inhibitor partly reversed these effects (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Our findings identified six miRNAs related to GAC prognosis and suggested that downregulated miR-96-5p might induce cell apoptosis via upregulating ZDHHC5 expression in MGC-803 cells.

miR-96-5p promotes the proliferation and migration of ovarian cancer cells by suppressing Caveolae1

BACKGROUND

Ovarian cancer (OC) is the second most common gynaecological malignancy. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been found to be aberrantly expressed in OC tissue and have been proposed as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for OC.

RESULTS

In this study, we found that miR-96-5p was up-regulated in OC tissues and OC cells compared to normal ovarian tissues and epithelial cell line. And, miR-96-5p was also up-regulated in the serum samples from OC patients compared to health participants. In addition, there was a positive correlation of miR-96-5p levels between OC tissues and serum samples. At the cellular level, overexpression of miR-96-5p promoted cell proliferation and migration in OC cells. Moreover, we further validated Caveolae1 (CAV1) as the direct target of miR-96-5p in OC cells through luciferase activity assays and western blot. CAV1 was obvious low expression in OC tissues. The overexpression of CAV1 abrogated the promotion of miR-96-5p on the OC cells proliferation and migration. Finally, we found that AKT signaling pathway was involved in this process. MiR-96-5p inhibited the phosphorylation of AKT and expression of down-stream proteins Cyclin D1 and P70 by targeting CAV1.

CONCLUSIONS

The above findings suggested that targeting miR-96-5p may be a promising strategy for OC treatment.

miRNA-365b promotes hepatocellular carcinoma cell migration and invasion by downregulating SGTB

Aim: miR-365b, a miRNA at chromosomal breakpoint, was often amplified and upregulated in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the role of miR-365b dysregulation remains unclear. Materials & methods: miR-365b function assays and its target gene analyses were performed. Results: We revealed that miR-365b promoted HCC cell motility and spreading. Furthermore, SGTB was found to be a downstream target of miR-365b, and knockdown of the SGTB gene could mimic the effect of miR-365b in hastening HCC cell migration and invasion. Conclusion: These results imply that miR-365b plays a tumor-promoting role in HCC by suppressing SGTB expression, offering novel potential targets for the treatment of HCC.

miR-96 exerts carcinogenic effect by activating AKT/GSK-3β/β-catenin signaling pathway through targeting inhibition of FOXO1 in hepatocellular carcinoma

Background

The aim of this research was to investigate the mechanism of miR-96 affecting hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

mRNA and protein expression was detected by qRT-PCR and Western blot, respectively. HepG2 cells were transfected and grouped as follows: miR-NC group, miR-mimics group, NC + Vector group, mimics + Vector group, mimics + FOXO1 group. Luciferase reporter assay was performed. MTT and Transwell assay was conducted. In vivo studies by nude mice were performed. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence was executed.

Results

Up-regulated miR-96 and down-regulated FOXO1 was found in tumor tissues and HepG2 cells (P < 0.01). FOXO1 was directly suppressed by miR-96. Compared with NC + Vector group, mimics + Vector group has higher OD495 value (P < 0.05), higher migration and invasion cells (P < 0.01), larger transplanted tumor volume (P < 0.01), lower FOXO1 positive cell numbers (P < 0.01), higher p-AKT and p-GSK-3β expression (P < 0.01), lower p-β-catenin expression (P < 0.01), more β-catenin expression in the nucleus (P < 0.01). Compared with mimics + Vector group, mimics + FOXO1 group has lower OD495 value (P < 0.05), lower migration and invasion cells (P < 0.01), smaller transplanted tumor volume (P < 0.01), higher FOXO1 positive cells (P < 0.01), lower p-AKT and p-GSK-3β expression (P < 0.01), higher p-β-catenin expression (P < 0.01), less β-catenin expression in the nucleus (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

miR-96 exerts carcinogenic effect by activating AKT/GSK-3β/β-catenin signaling pathway through targeting inhibition of FOXO1 in HCC.

regQTLs: Single nucleotide polymorphisms that modulate microRNA regulation of gene expression in tumors

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with trait diversity and disease susceptibility, yet their functional properties often remain unclear. It has been hypothesized that SNPs in microRNA binding sites may disrupt gene regulation by microRNAs (miRNAs), short non-coding RNAs that bind to mRNA and downregulate the target gene. While several studies have predicted the location of SNPs in miRNA binding sites, to date there has been no comprehensive analysis of their impact on miRNA regulation. Here we investigate the functional properties of genetic variants and their effects on miRNA regulation of gene expression in cancer. Our analysis is motivated by the hypothesis that distinct alleles may cause differential binding (from miRNAs to mRNAs or from transcription factors to DNA) and change the expression of genes. We previously identified pathways—systems of genes conferring specific cell functions—that are dysregulated by miRNAs in cancer, by comparing miRNA–pathway associations between healthy and tumor tissue. We draw on these results as a starting point to assess whether SNPs on dysregulated pathways are responsible for miRNA dysregulation of individual genes in tumors. Using an integrative regression analysis that incorporates miRNA expression, mRNA expression, and SNP genotype data, we identify functional SNPs that we term “regulatory QTLs (regQTLs)”: loci whose alleles impact the regulation of genes by miRNAs. We apply the method to breast, liver, lung, and prostate cancer data from The Cancer Genome Atlas, and provide a tool to explore the findings.

Genomics studies have identified single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with trait diversity and disease susceptibility, yet the mechanism of action of many genetic variants remains unclear. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small non-coding RNA molecules that base-pair coding mRNAs to regulate gene transcription. We hypothesize that SNP variants may affect the ability of miRNAs to bind their target genes, thus influencing gene regulation. To identify these “regulatory QTLs” (regQTLs), we integrate miRNA expression, mRNA expression, and SNP data to identify miRNAs that are associated with pathway dysregulation in tumors, and assess whether SNPs on these pathways are responsible for disrupted miRNA-gene regulation. This data-driven approach enables the discovery of SNPs whose alleles impact gene regulation by miRNAs, with functional consequences for tumor biology. We detail the method, apply it to data from The Cancer Genome Atlas, and provide a tool to explore the findings.

Upregulation of miR-96 promotes radioresistance in glioblastoma cells via targeting PDCD4

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most deadly brain tumor, and it is characterized by extremely poor therapeutic response and overall survival. Adjuvant radiotherapy remains the standard of care following surgical resection. Thus, elucidating the mechanisms conferring radioresistance in GBM is extremely urgent. In the present study, miR-96 was demonstrated to be significantly upregulated in radioresistant GBM cells. Knockdown of miR-96 in the radioresistant GBM cells T98G elevated the % of apoptotic cells and reduced their clonogenic formation ability following radiotherapy. By contrast, overexpression of miR-96 in the radiosensitive GBM cells U87-MG reduced the % of apoptotic cells and increased their clonogenic formation ability following radiotherapy. Results from phosphorylated-H2A histone family member X (γH2AX) foci staining and comet assays revealed that miR-96 enhanced the DNA repair processes. Furthermore, miR-96 overexpression conferred radioresistance by downregulating programmed cell death protein 4 (PDCD4). Luciferase assay results revealed that miR-96 bound to the 3'UTR of PDCD4 mRNA. Finally, U87-MG cells regained radiosensitivity following PDCD4 overexpression. Taken together, the present is the first study to establish that upregulation of miR-96 in GBM cells confers radioresistance via targeting PDCD4, which might be a potential therapeutic target for GBM.

Knockdown of long noncoding RNA urothelial carcinoma-associated 1 inhibits cell viability, migration, and invasion by regulating microRNA-182 in gastric carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Long noncoding RNA urothelial carcinoma-associated 1 (UCA1) has been reported to be a vital mediator in various cancers. But, in terms of gastric cancer (GC), the effects of UCA1 on GC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis remain unclear. This study aimed to uncover the potential regulatory mechanism of UCA1 in GC cells.

METHODS

The expression level of UCA1 was first examined in the five different cell lines of HEK293, CCL-153, HUVEC, SUN-216, and SGC-7901 using a reverse-transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Then, the vectors of short hairpin UCA1, the microRNA-182 (miR-182) mimic/inhibitor, and the pEX-tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 2 (TIMP2)/small interfering TIMP2 were transfected into SUN-216 and SGC-7901 cells to alter UCA1, miR-182, and TIMP2 expression. To investigate the biological functions, cell viability, migration, invasion, and apoptosis were examined by Cell Counting Kit-8, Transwell, and flow cytometry. The key factors of apoptosis and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT)/glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) signal pathways were determined by Western blot analysis.

RESULTS

UCA1 was upregulated in SUN-216 and SGC-7901 cells than in the other three cell lines of HEK293, CCL-153, and HUVEC. Knockdown of UCA1 significantly suppressed cell viability, migration, and invasion, and promoted apoptosis by regulating B-cell lymphoma 2, Bax, and cleaved-caspase-3/9 expressions. However, miR-182 overexpression markedly reversed the regulatory effect of UCA1 knockdown on SUN-216 and SGC-7901 cells. TIMP2 was a direct target gene of miR-182, and TIMP2 overexpression exhibited the same effect of UCA1 knockdown on cell viability, migration, invasion, and apoptosis. Besides, miR-182 activated PI3K/AKT/GSK3β and NF-κB signal pathways by regulation of TIMP2.

CONCLUSION

Knockdown of UCA1 exerts an anticancer effect on GC cells by regulating miR-182.

MicroRNA-96 expression induced by low-dose cisplatin or doxorubicin regulates chemosensitivity, cell death and proliferation in gastric cancer SGC7901 cells by targeting FOXO1

MicroRNA-96 (miR-96) is transcriptionally associated with the induction of chemoresistance following chemotherapy by targeting to FOXO1 mRNA at one of two predicted binding sites in its 3'-untranslated region sequence. The upregulation of miR-96 is associated with a high risk of chemoresistance. Nevertheless, the mechanism by which miR-96 is upregulated remains largely undefined. In the present study, the gastric cancer SGC7901 cell line was treated with different doses of the chemotherapeutic agents cisplatin and doxorubicin. miR-96 expression was analyzed by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction at different time points. Western blot and chromatin immunoprecipitation were performed to analyze the expression levels of the target gene. The effects of miR-96 on chemosensitivity were assessed by a carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester/propidium iodide labeling assay, and its effects on proliferation were assessed by Cell Counting Kit-8 or EdU staining assays. The results demonstrated that treatment with a low dose of either chemotherapeutic agent induced miR-96 expression. Upregulation of miR-96 caused the post-transcriptional repression of FOXO1 expression. Decreases in FOXO1 protein levels led to a decrease in the transcriptional activity of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1A (CDKN1A, also known as p21) promoter region, and thus the expression of p21 was downregulated in a tumor protein p53-independent manner. As a result, induction of miR-96 expression caused chemoresistance and promoted proliferation in SGC7901 cells. Taken together, the results of the present study revealed that treatment with cisplatin or doxorubicin could induce expression of miR-96 at certain doses. Upregulation of miR-96 is partially associated with chemoresistance and miR-96 can also promote cell proliferation by repressing p21.

miR-96 targets SOX6 and promotes proliferation, migration, and invasion of hepatocellular carcinoma

Recent research suggested that microRNA 96 (miR-96) might function as an oncogene in several types of cancers. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to probe into the mechanism of miR-96 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. HCC tissues and non-tumorous tissues, HCC cell lines, and healthy cell lines were all involved in this study. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and Western blot were used to detect miR-96 and SOX6 mRNA and protein expressions. The direct regulation of miR96 on SOX6 was confirmed by luciferase reporter assays. Cell proliferation and growth were determined by MTT (3-(4,5-dimethyl–2-thiazolyl)–2,5-diphenyl–2-H-tetrazolium bromide) assay and colony formation assay. Wound healing and transwell assay were employed for migration and invasion analyses. Finally, SPSS 21.0 and GraphPad 7.0 were applied for statistical analyses. In HCC tissues, miR-96 was highly expressed while SOX6 was lowly expressed. The overexpression of miR-96 reversely inhibited the expression of SOX6, contributing to the promotion of the biological functions of HCC cells. miR-96 could promote cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in HCC by targeting SOX6.

ZO-1 expression is suppressed by GM-CSF via miR-96/ERG in brain microvascular endothelial cells

The level of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) increases in some disorders such as vascular dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and multiple sclerosis. We previously reported that in Alzheimer's disease patients, a high level of GM-CSF in the brain parenchyma downregulated expression of ZO-1, a blood-brain barrier tight junction protein, and facilitated the infiltration of peripheral monocytes across the blood-brain barrier. However, the molecular mechanism underlying regulation of ZO-1 expression by GM-CSF is unclear. Herein, we found that the erythroblast transformation-specific (ETS) transcription factor ERG cooperated with the proto-oncogene protein c-MYC in regulation of ZO-1 transcription in brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs). The ERG expression was suppressed by miR-96 which was increased by GM-CSF through the phosphoinositide-3 kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway. Inhibition of miR-96 prevented ZO-1 down-regulation induced by GM-CSF both in vitro and in vivo. Our results revealed the mechanism of ZO-1 expression reduced by GM-CSF, and provided a potential target, miR-96, which could block ZO-1 down-regulation caused by GM-CSF in BMECs.

Screening therapeutic targets of ribavirin in hepatocellular carcinoma

The objective of the present study was to screen the key genes of ribavirin in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and provide novel therapeutic targets for HCC treatment. The mRNA expression datasets of GSE23031 and GSE74656, as well as the microRNA (miRNA) expression dataset of GSE22058 were downloaded from the Gene Expressed Omnibus database. In the GSE23031 dataset, there were three HCC cell lines treated with PBS and three HCC cell lines treated with ribavirin. In the GSE74656 dataset, five HCC tissues and five carcinoma adjacent tissues were selected. In the GSE22058 dataset, 96 HCC tissues and 96 carcinoma adjacent tissues were selected. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and differentially expressed miRNAs were identified via the limma package of R. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis was performed with the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery. The target mRNAs of DEMs were obtained with TargetScan. A total of 559 DEGs (designated DEG-Ribavirin) were identified in HCC cells treated with ribavirin compared with PBS and 632 DEGs (designated DEG-Tumor) were identified in HCC tissues compared with carcinoma adjacent tissues. A total of 220 differentially expressed miRNAs were identified in HCC tissues compared with carcinoma adjacent tissues. In addition, 121 GO terms and three KEGG pathways of DEG-Ribavirin were obtained, and 383 GO terms and 25 KEGG pathways of DEG-Tumor were obtained. A total of five key miRNA-mRNA regulated pairs were identified, namely miR-183→CCNB1, miR-96→DEPDC1, miR-96→NTN4, miR-183→NTN4 and miR-145→NTN4. The present study indicated that certain miRNAs (including miR-96, miR-145 and miR-183) and mRNAs (including NAT2, FBXO5, CCNB1, DEPDC1 and NTN4) may be associated with the effects of ribavirin on HCC. Furthermore, they may provide novel therapeutic targets for HCC treatment.

Targeting of miR-31/96/182 to the Numb gene during head and neck oncogenesis

BACKGROUND

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play crucial roles in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). This study investigates whether miR-31, miR-96, and miR-182 are involved in targeting Numb during HNSCC.

METHODS

The expression of miR-31/96/182 in tumor tissues was analyzed. Reporter assay, knockdown, expression, and oncogenic analysis were carried out in cell lines.

RESULTS

Upregulation of miR-31/96/182 was detected in tumor tissues. In addition, advanced tumors showed higher expression levels of these miRNAs. The expression of these miRNAs was upregulated after treatment with areca ingredients (P < .01 or P < .001). These miRNAs directly targeted the 3' untranslated region (UTR) sequence of the Numb gene. An increased migration and invasion of HNSCC cells was associated with the exogenous expression of miR-31/96/182 (P < .01 or P < .001), and this was reverted by expression of Numb.

CONCLUSION

This study provides new evidence demonstrating that there is frequent and concordant upregulation of miR-31, miR-96, and miR-182 during HNSCC and these miRNAs co-target Numb.

MiR-96 enhances cellular proliferation and tumorigenicity of human cervical carcinoma cells through PTPN9

Up to date, the cervical cancer remains to be one of the leading gynecological malignancies worldwide. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play critical roles in the process of tumor initiation and progression. However, miR-96 has rarely been investigated in human cervical carcinoma. We aimed to investigate the biological function and underlying molecular mechanism of miR-96 in human cervical carcinoma. MiR-96 levels were determined by qRT-PCR. Protein tyrosine phosphatase, non-receptor type 9 (PTPN9) mRNA and protein levels were investigated by qRT-PCR and western blotting. The cellular proliferation in cervical cells was monitored by CyQuant assay. Soft agar assay was employed to determine the tumorigenicity. 3' UTR luciferase assay was used to validate the target gene of miR-96. SPSS was used to analyze statistical significance in different treatment. MiR-96 was dramatically upregulated in human cervical tumor tissues. Overexpression of miR-96 was found to significantly promote the cellular proliferation and tumorigenicity of cervical cells. Furthermore, we showed that PTPN9 was a direct target gene of miR-96 and had opposite effect to those of miR-96 on cervical cells. MiR-96 may promote the cellular proliferation and tumorigenicity of cervical cells by silencing PTPN9. Our study highlights an importantly regulatory role of miR-96 and suggests that an appropriate manipulation of miR-96 may be a new treatment of human cervical carcinoma in the future.

Dysregulation and functional roles of miR-183-96-182 cluster in cancer cell proliferation, invasion and metastasis

Previous studies have reported aberrant expression of the miR-183-96-182 cluster in a variety of tumors, which indicates its' diagnostic or prognostic value. However, a key characteristic of the miR-183-96-182 cluster is its varied expression levels, and pleomorphic functional roles in different tumors or under different conditions. In most tumor types, the cluster is highly expressed and promotes tumorigenesis, cancer progression and metastasis; yet tumor suppressive effects have also been reported in some tumors. In the present study, we discuss the upstream regulators and the downstream target genes of miR-183-96-182 cluster, and highlight the dysregulation and functional roles of this cluster in various tumor cells. Newer insights summarized in this review will help readers understand the different facets of the miR-183-96-182 cluster in cancer development and progression.

Retracted Article: MiR-182-5p and miR-96-5p increased hepatocellular carcinoma cell mobility, proliferation and cisplatin resistance partially by targeting RND3

We investigated whether miR-182-5p or miR-96-5p could increase hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development by targeting Rho Family GTPase 3 (RND3) gene expression. The expression levels of miR-182-5p, miR-96-5p and mRNA/protein of RND3 in non-HCC liver tissue, HCC tissue and adjacent tissue specimens were evaluated by RT-qPCR and western blot. Patient-derived HCC cell culture was established, and miR-182-5p or miR-96-5p agomir or antagomir treatment was performed to mimic the overexpression or knockdown of the two miRNAs. HCC cell mobility in vitro was monitored by trans-well migration and invasion assay, while HCC cell growth in vitro was evaluated by cell viability, proliferation and apoptosis assay. HCC cell apoptosis was further investigated by caspase-3/-8/-9 activity assay. MiR-182-5p and miR-96-5p were significantly upregulated in HCC tissue specimens compared with non-HCC or adjacent tissue specimens, inversely correlating to RND3 mRNA expression level. Treatment with miR-182-5p or miR-96-5p agomir significantly reduced RND3 mRNA/protein expression level in HCC cells. MiR-182-5p- or miR-96-5p-targeting RND3 mRNA was verified by luciferase reporter assay and AGO2-RNA immunoprecipitation assay. MiR-182-5p or miR-96-5p agomir treatment significantly rescued HCC cell migration and invasion in vitro that were repressed by RND3 overexpression, during which ROCK1 and ROCK2 inhibition were involved. MiR-182-5p or miR-96-5p agomir treatment also increased HCC cell proliferation and cisplatin resistance in vitro, which could be antagonized by RND3 overexpression or ROCK inhibition. Thus, miR-182-5p and miR-96-5p increased HCC cell mobility, proliferation and cisplatin resistance in vitro partially by targeting RND3.

We investigated whether miR-182-5p or miR-96-5p could increase hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development by targeting Rho Family GTPase 3 (RND3) gene expression.

Resveratrol ameliorates hypoxia/ischemia-induced brain injury in the neonatal rat via the miR-96/Bax axis

OBJECTIVE

This study was aimed to investigate the mechanism of resveratrol on amelioration of hypoxia/ischemia (H/I)-induced brain injury.

METHODS

The RT-PCR and western blot were used to detect the mRNA and protein expressions, respectively. The PC12 cell induced by OGD/R was as in vitro H/I brain injury model. The luciferase reporter assay was used to prove the relationship between Bax and miR-96, and the cell apoptosis was detected by MTT assay. The loss of MBP+ area in neonatal rats analyzed by immunohistochemistry was to evaluate the extent of brain injury.

RESULTS

The miR-96 expression was decreased in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex of neonatal rats with H/I brain injury and the oxygenglucose deprivation/re-oxygenation (OGD/R)-induced PC12 cell, while Bax expression was opposite. And then the H/I rats and OGD/R-induced PC12 cell were treated with resveratrol (RSV); the results showed that the RSV could reverse the miR-96 and Bax expressions. Next, the luciferase reporter assay proved that Bax was a target of miR-96. We used the miR-96 inhibitor to suppress miR-96 expression in OGD/R-induced PC12 cell, and found that RSV regulated Bax expression and prevented OGD/R-induced PC12 cell apoptosis via miR-96. In addition, the immunohistochemistry was used to analyze the loss of MBP+ area in neonatal rats, and the result showed that the RSV significantly reduced the brain damage, increased miR-96 expression, and decreased Bax expression, while inhibition of miR-96 aggravated the brain damage and reversed the effect of RSV.

CONCLUSION

Resveratrol ameliorates hypoxia/ischemia-induced brain injury in neonatal rat via the miR-96/ Bax axis.

New Insights into the Epigenetics of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most predominant malignancies with high fatality rate. This deadly cancer is rising at an alarming rate because it is quite resistant to radio- and chemotherapy. Different epigenetic mechanisms such as histone modifications, DNA methylation, chromatin remodeling, and expression of noncoding RNAs drive the cell proliferation, invasion, metastasis, initiation, progression, and development of HCC. These epigenetic alterations because of potential reversibility open way towards the development of biomarkers and therapeutics. The contribution of these epigenetic changes to HCC development has not been thoroughly explored yet. Further research on HCC epigenetics is necessary to better understand novel molecular-targeted HCC treatment and prevention. This review highlights latest research progress and current updates regarding epigenetics of HCC, biomarker discovery, and future preventive and therapeutic strategies to combat the increasing risk of HCC.

Role of miRNAs in human cancer metastasis: Implications for therapeutic intervention

Metastasis is the spread and growth of localized cancer to new locations in the body and is considered the main cause of cancer-related deaths. Metastatic cancer cells display distinct genomic and epigenomic profiles and almost universally an aggressive pathophysiology. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms and regulation of metastasis, including how metastatic tumors grow and survive in the nascent niche and the interactions of the emergent metastatic cancer cells within the local microenvironment may provide tools to design strategies to restrict metastatic dissemination. Aberrant microRNAs (miRNA) expression has been reported in metastatic cancer cells. MicroRNAs are known to regulate divergent and/or convergent metastatic gene pathways including activation of reprogramming switches during metastasis. An in-depth understanding of role of miRNAs in the metastatic cascade may lead to the identification of novel targets for anti-metastatic therapeutics as well as potential candidate miRNAs for cancer treatment. This review primarily focuses on the role of miRNAs in the mechanisms of cancer metastasis as well as implications for metastatic cancer treatment.

miR-96 promotes cell proliferation, migration and invasion by targeting PTPN9 in breast cancer

microRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as major regulators of the initiation and progression of human cancers, including breast cancer. The aim of this study is to determine the expression pattern of miR-96 in breast cancer and to investigate its biological role during tumorigenesis. We showed that miR-96 was significantly upregulated in breast cancer. We then investigated its function and found that miR-96 significantly promoted cell proliferation, migration and invasion in vitro and enhanced tumor growth in vivo. Furthermore, we explored the molecular mechanisms by which miR-96 contributes to breast cancer progression and identified PTPN9 (protein tyrosine phosphatase, non-receptor type 9) as a direct target gene of miR-96. Finally, we showed that PTPN9 had opposite effects to those of miR-96 on breast cancer cells, suggesting that miR-96 may promote breast tumorigenesis by silencing PTPN9. Taken together, this study highlights an important role for miR-96 in the regulation of PTPN9 in breast cancer cells and may provide insight into the molecular mechanisms of breast carcinogenesis.

Local microRNA delivery targets Palladin and prevents metastatic breast cancer

Metastasis is the primary cause for mortality in breast cancer. MicroRNAs, gene expression master regulators, constitute an attractive candidate to control metastasis. Here we show that breast cancer metastasis can be prevented by miR-96 or miR-182 treatment, and decipher the mechanism of action. We found that miR-96/miR-182 downregulate Palladin protein levels, thereby reducing breast cancer cell migration and invasion. A common SNP, rs1071738, at the miR-96/miR-182-binding site within the Palladin 3'-UTR abolishes miRNA:mRNA binding, thus diminishing Palladin regulation by these miRNAs. Regulation is successfully restored by applying complimentary miRNAs. A hydrogel-embedded, gold-nanoparticle-based delivery vehicle provides efficient local, selective, and sustained release of miR-96/miR-182, markedly suppressing metastasis in a breast cancer mouse model. Combined delivery of the miRNAs with a chemotherapy drug, cisplatin, enables significant primary tumour shrinkage and metastasis prevention. Our data corroborate the role of miRNAs in metastasis, and suggest miR-96/miR-182 delivery as a potential anti-metastatic drug.

Accuracy of novel diagnostic biomarkers for hepatocellular carcinoma: An update for clinicians (Review)

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common liver malignancy and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Accurate detection and differential diagnosis of early HCC can significantly improve patient survival. Currently, detection of HCC in clinical practice is performed by diagnostic imaging techniques and determination of serum biomarkers, most notably α-fetoprotein (AFP), fucosylated AFP and des-γ-carboxyprothrombin. However, these methods display limitations in sensitivity and specificity, especially with respect to early stages of HCC. Recently, high-throughput technologies have elucidated many new pathways involved in hepatocarcinogenesis and have led to the discovery of a plethora of novel, non-invasive serum biomarkers. In particular, the combination of AFP with these new candidate molecules has yielded promising results. In this review, we aimed at recapitulating the most recent (2013–2015) developments in HCC biomarker research. We compared promising novel diagnostic serum protein biomarkers, such as annexin A2, the soluble form of the receptor tyrosine kinase Axl and thioredoxin, as well as their combinations with AFP. High diagnostic performance (area under the curve >0.75) as shown by threshold-independent receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was a prerequisite for inclusion in this review. In addition, we discuss the role and potential of microRNAs in HCC diagnosis and associated methodological challenges.