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Soleimani M, Harooni A, Erfani N, Khan AR, Saba T, Bahaj SA. Classification of cancer types based on microRNA expression using a hybrid radial basis function and particle swarm optimization algorithm. Microsc Res Tech 2024; 87:1052-1062. [PMID: 38230557 DOI: 10.1002/jemt.24492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
The diagnosis and treatment of cancer is one of the most challenging aspects of the medical profession, despite advances in disease diagnosis. MicroRNAs are small noncoding RNA molecules involved in regulating gene expression and are associated with several cancer types. Therefore, the analysis of microRNA data has become one of the most important areas of cancer research in recent years. This paper presents an improved method for cancer-type classification based on microRNA expression data using a hybrid radial basis function (RBF) and particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm. Two datasets containing microRNA information were used, and preprocessing and normalization operations were performed on the raw data. Feature selection was carried out by using the PSO algorithm, which can identify the most relevant and informative features in the data along with helping to prioritize them. Using a PSO algorithm for feature selection is an effective approach to microRNA analysis. This enhances the accuracy and reliability of cancer-type classifications based on microRNA expression data. In the proposed method, we, respectively, achieved an accuracy of 0.95% and 0.91% on both datasets, with an average of 0.93%, using an improved RBF neural network classifier. These results demonstrate that the proposed method outperforms previous works. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: To enhance the accuracy of cancer-type classifications based on microRNA expression data. We present a minimal feature selection method using particle swarm optimization to reduce computational load & radial basis function to improve accuracy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoumeh Soleimani
- Department of Mathematics and Statistical Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, USA
| | - Aryan Harooni
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Nasim Erfani
- Department of Computer Engineering, Dolatabad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Amjad Rehman Khan
- Artificial Intelligence & Data Analytics Lab CCIS Prince Sultan University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tanzila Saba
- Artificial Intelligence & Data Analytics Lab CCIS Prince Sultan University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saeed Ali Bahaj
- MIS Department College of Business Administration, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
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2
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Rodrigues P, Bangali H, Hammoud A, Mustafa YF, Al-Hetty HRAK, Alkhafaji AT, Deorari MM, Al-Taee MM, Zabibah RS, Alsalamy A. COX 2-inhibitors; a thorough and updated survey into combinational therapies in cancers. Med Oncol 2024; 41:41. [PMID: 38165473 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-023-02256-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes are pivotal in inflammation and cancer development. COX-2, in particular, has been implicated in tumor growth, angiogenesis, and immune evasion. Recently, COX-2 inhibitors have arisen as potential therapeutic agents in cancer treatment. In addition, combining COX inhibitors with other treatment modalities has demonstrated the potential to improve therapeutic efficacy. This review aims to investigate the effects of COX inhibition, both alone and in combination with other methods, on signaling pathways and carcinogenesis in various cancers. In this study, a literature search of all major academic databases was conducted (PubMed, Scholar google), including the leading research on the mechanisms of COX-2, COX-2 inhibitors, monotherapy with COX-2 inhibitors, and combining COX-2-inhibitors with chemotherapeutic agents in tumors. The study encompasses preclinical and clinical evidence, highlighting the positive findings and the potential implications for clinical practice. According to preclinical studies, multiple signaling pathways implicated in tumor cell proliferation, survival, invasion, and metastasis can be suppressed by inhibiting COX. In addition, combining COX inhibitors with chemotherapy drugs, targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and miRNA-based approaches has enhanced anti-tumor activity. These results suggest that combination therapy has the potential to overcome resistance mechanisms and improve treatment outcomes. However, caution must be exercised when selecting and administering combination regimens. Not all combinations of COX-2 inhibitors with other drugs result in synergistic effects; some may even have unfavorable interactions. Therefore, personalized approaches that consider the specific characteristics of the cancer and the medications involved are crucial for optimizing therapeutic strategies. In conclusion, as monotherapy or combined with other methods, COX inhibition bears promise in modulating signaling pathways and inhibiting carcinogenesis in various cancers. Additional studies and well-designed clinical trials are required to completely elucidate the efficacy of COX inhibition and combination therapy in enhancing cancer treatment outcomes. This narrative review study provides a detailed summary of COX-2 monotherapy and combination targeted therapy in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Rodrigues
- Department of Computer Engineering, College of Computer Science, King Khalid University, Al-Faraa, Asir-Abha, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Harun Bangali
- Department of Computer Engineering, College of Computer Science, King Khalid University, Al-Faraa, Asir-Abha, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad Hammoud
- Department of Medical and Technical Information Technology, Bauman Moscow State Technical University, Moscow, Russia.
- Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Gulf University for Science and Technology, Mishref Campus, Mubarak Al-Abdullah, Kuwait.
| | - Yasser Fakri Mustafa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Mosul, Mosul, 41001, Iraq
| | | | | | - Maha Medha Deorari
- Uttaranchal Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, India
| | | | - Rahman S Zabibah
- College of Medical Technique, the Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq
| | - Ali Alsalamy
- College of Technical Engineering, Imam Ja'afar Al-Sadiq University, Al-Muthanna, 66002, Iraq
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Zhan Q, Liu B, Situ X, Luo Y, Fu T, Wang Y, Xie Z, Ren L, Zhu Y, He W, Ke Z. New insights into the correlations between circulating tumor cells and target organ metastasis. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:465. [PMID: 38129401 PMCID: PMC10739776 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01725-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Organ-specific metastasis is the primary cause of cancer patient death. The distant metastasis of tumor cells to specific organs depends on both the intrinsic characteristics of the tumor cells and extrinsic factors in their microenvironment. During an intermediate stage of metastasis, circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are released into the bloodstream from primary and metastatic tumors. CTCs harboring aggressive or metastatic features can extravasate to remote sites for continuous colonizing growth, leading to further lesions. In the past decade, numerous studies demonstrated that CTCs exhibited huge clinical value including predicting distant metastasis, assessing prognosis and monitoring treatment response et al. Furthermore, increasingly numerous experiments are dedicated to identifying the key molecules on or inside CTCs and exploring how they mediate CTC-related organ-specific metastasis. Based on the above molecules, more and more inhibitors are being developed to target CTCs and being utilized to completely clean CTCs, which should provide promising prospects to administer advanced tumor. Recently, the application of various nanomaterials and microfluidic technologies in CTCs enrichment technology has assisted to improve our deep insights into the phenotypic characteristics and biological functions of CTCs as a potential therapy target, which may pave the way for us to make practical clinical strategies. In the present review, we mainly focus on the role of CTCs being involved in targeted organ metastasis, especially the latest molecular mechanism research and clinical intervention strategies related to CTCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinru Zhan
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 510000, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Bixia Liu
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 510000, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Xiaohua Situ
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 510000, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Yuting Luo
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 510000, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Tongze Fu
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 510000, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P.R. China
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 510000, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Yanxia Wang
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, 510000, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Zhongpeng Xie
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, 510000, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Lijuan Ren
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 510000, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Ying Zhu
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 510000, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P.R. China.
| | - Weiling He
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
- School of Medicine, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen University, 361000, Xiamen, Fujian, P.R. China.
| | - Zunfu Ke
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 510000, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P.R. China.
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 510000, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P.R. China.
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Hussen BM, Abdullah KH, Abdullah SR, Majeed NM, Mohamadtahr S, Rasul MF, Dong P, Taheri M, Samsami M. New insights of miRNA molecular mechanisms in breast cancer brain metastasis and therapeutic targets. Noncoding RNA Res 2023; 8:645-660. [PMID: 37818447 PMCID: PMC10560790 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2023.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain metastases in breast cancer (BC) patients are often associated with a poor prognosis. Recent studies have uncovered the critical roles of miRNAs in the initiation and progression of BC brain metastasis, highlighting the disease's underlying molecular pathways. miRNA-181c, miRNA-10b, and miRNA-21, for example, are all overexpressed in BC patients. It has been shown that these three miRNAs help tumors grow and metastasize by targeting genes that control how cells work. On the other hand, miRNA-26b5p, miRNA-7, and miRNA-1013p are all downregulated in BC brain metastasis patients. They act as tumor suppressors by controlling the expression of genes related to cell adhesion, angiogenesis, and invasion. Therapeutic miRNA targeting has considerable promise in treating BC brain metastases. Several strategies have been proposed to modulate miRNA expression, including miRNA-Mimics, antagomirs, and small molecule inhibitors of miRNA biogenesis. This review discusses the aberrant expression of miRNAs and metastatic pathways that lead to the spread of BC cells to the brain. It also explores miRNA therapeutic target molecular mechanisms and BC brain metastasis challenges with advanced strategies. The targeting of certain miRNAs opens a new door for the development of novel therapeutic approaches for this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bashdar Mahmud Hussen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Science, Cihan University-Erbil, Kurdistan Region, 44001, Iraq
- Department of Clinical Analysis, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Kurdistan Region, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Khozga Hazhar Abdullah
- Medical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences, Lebanese French University, Kurdistan Region, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Snur Rasool Abdullah
- Medical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences, Lebanese French University, Kurdistan Region, Erbil, Iraq
| | | | - Sayran Mohamadtahr
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Mohammed Fatih Rasul
- Department of Pharmaceutical Basic Science, Tishk International University, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
| | - Peixin Dong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hokkaido University School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Mohammad Taheri
- Institute of Human Genetics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
- Urology and Nephrology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Samsami
- Cancer Research Center, Loghman Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Gómez-Acebo I, Llorca J, Alonso-Molero J, Díaz-Martínez M, Pérez-Gómez B, Amiano P, Belmonte T, Molina AJ, Burgui R, Castaño-Vinyals G, Moreno V, Molina-Barceló A, Marcos-Gragera R, Kogevinas M, Pollán M, Dierssen-Sotos T. Circulating miRNAs signature on breast cancer: the MCC-Spain project. Eur J Med Res 2023; 28:480. [PMID: 37925534 PMCID: PMC10625260 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-023-01471-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To build models combining circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) able to identify women with breast cancer as well as different types of breast cancer, when comparing with controls without breast cancer. METHOD miRNAs analysis was performed in two phases: screening phase, with a total n = 40 (10 controls and 30 BC cases) analyzed by Next Generation Sequencing, and validation phase, which included 131 controls and 269 cases. For this second phase, the miRNAs were selected combining the screening phase results and a revision of the literature. They were quantified using RT-PCR. Models were built using logistic regression with LASSO penalization. RESULTS The model for all cases included seven miRNAs (miR-423-3p, miR-139-5p, miR-324-5p, miR-1299, miR-101-3p, miR-186-5p and miR-29a-3p); which had an area under the ROC curve of 0.73. The model for cases diagnosed via screening only took in one miRNA (miR-101-3p); the area under the ROC curve was 0.63. The model for disease-free cases in the follow-up had five miRNAs (miR-101-3p, miR-186-5p, miR-423-3p, miR-142-3p and miR-1299) and the area under the ROC curve was 0.73. Finally, the model for cases with active disease in the follow-up contained six miRNAs (miR-101-3p, miR-423-3p, miR-139-5p, miR-1307-3p, miR-331-3p and miR-21-3p) and its area under the ROC curve was 0.82. CONCLUSION We present four models involving eleven miRNAs to differentiate healthy controls from different types of BC cases. Our models scarcely overlap with those previously reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inés Gómez-Acebo
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain.
- IDIVAL, Santander, Spain.
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Javier Llorca
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jessica Alonso-Molero
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain
- IDIVAL, Santander, Spain
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Díaz-Martínez
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain
| | - Beatriz Pérez-Gómez
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- National Centre for Epidemiology, Carlos III Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar Amiano
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Sub Directorate for Public Health and Addictions of Gipuzkoa, Ministry of Health of the Basque Government, San Sebastian, Spain
- Epidemiology of Chronic and Communicable Diseases Group, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Thalía Belmonte
- IUOPA, University of Oviedo and ISPA (Health Research Institute of Asturias), Oviedo, Spain
| | - Antonio J Molina
- Grupo de Investigación en Interacción, Gen-Ambiente-Salud (GIIGAS), Instituto de Biomedicina (IBIOMED), Universidad de León, León, Spain
| | - Rosana Burgui
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Public and Occupational Health of Navarre (ISPLN), 31003, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Gemma Castaño-Vinyals
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
- Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Víctor Moreno
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Colorectal Cancer Group, ONCOBELL Program, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Oncology Data Analytics Program, Catalan Institute of Oncology, Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and health Sciences and Universitat de Barcelona Institute of Complex Systems (UBICS), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Molina-Barceló
- Cancer and Public Health UnitFoundation for the Promotion of Health and Biomedical Research (FISABIO-Salud Pública) in the Valencia Region, Valencia, Spain
| | - Rafael Marcos-Gragera
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Epidemiology Unit and Girona Cancer Registry, Oncology Coordination Plan, Department of Health, Autonomous Government of Catalonia, Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IdiBGi), Girona, Spain
| | - Manolis Kogevinas
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
- Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marina Pollán
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- National Centre for Epidemiology, Carlos III Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Trinidad Dierssen-Sotos
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain
- IDIVAL, Santander, Spain
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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Osaid Z, Haider M, Hamoudi R, Harati R. Exosomes Interactions with the Blood-Brain Barrier: Implications for Cerebral Disorders and Therapeutics. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15635. [PMID: 37958619 PMCID: PMC10648512 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB) is a selective structural and functional barrier between the circulatory system and the cerebral environment, playing an essential role in maintaining cerebral homeostasis by limiting the passage of harmful molecules. Exosomes, nanovesicles secreted by virtually all cell types into body fluids, have emerged as a major mediator of intercellular communication. Notably, these vesicles can cross the BBB and regulate its physiological functions. However, the precise molecular mechanisms by which exosomes regulate the BBB remain unclear. Recent research studies focused on the effect of exosomes on the BBB, particularly in the context of their involvement in the onset and progression of various cerebral disorders, including solid and metastatic brain tumors, stroke, neurodegenerative, and neuroinflammatory diseases. This review focuses on discussing and summarizing the current knowledge about the role of exosomes in the physiological and pathological modulation of the BBB. A better understanding of this regulation will improve our understanding of the pathogenesis of cerebral diseases and will enable the design of effective treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaynab Osaid
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates;
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Mohamed Haider
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates;
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rifat Hamoudi
- Clinical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates;
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London W1W 7EJ, UK
| | - Rania Harati
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates;
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates;
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Datta N, Johnson C, Kao D, Gurnani P, Alexander C, Polytarchou C, Monaghan TM. MicroRNA-based therapeutics for inflammatory disorders of the microbiota-gut-brain axis. Pharmacol Res 2023; 194:106870. [PMID: 37499702 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
An emerging but less explored shared pathophysiology across microbiota-gut-brain axis disorders is aberrant miRNA expression, which may represent novel therapeutic targets. miRNAs are small, endogenous non-coding RNAs that are important transcriptional repressors of gene expression. Most importantly, they regulate the integrity of the intestinal epithelial and blood-brain barriers and serve as an important communication channel between the gut microbiome and the host. A well-defined understanding of the mode of action, therapeutic strategies and delivery mechanisms of miRNAs is pivotal in translating the clinical applications of miRNA-based therapeutics. Accumulating evidence links disorders of the microbiota-gut-brain axis with a compromised gut-blood-brain-barrier, causing gut contents such as immune cells and microbiota to enter the bloodstream leading to low-grade systemic inflammation. This has the potential to affect all organs, including the brain, causing central inflammation and the development of neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases. In this review, we have examined in detail miRNA biogenesis, strategies for therapeutic application, delivery mechanisms, as well as their pathophysiology and clinical applications in inflammatory gut-brain disorders. The research data in this review was drawn from the following databases: PubMed, Google Scholar, and Clinicaltrials.gov. With increasing evidence of the pathophysiological importance for miRNAs in microbiota-gut-brain axis disorders, therapeutic targeting of cross-regulated miRNAs in these disorders displays potentially transformative and translational potential. Further preclinical research and human clinical trials are required to further advance this area of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neha Datta
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Charlotte Johnson
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Dina Kao
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Pratik Gurnani
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics & Formulation, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Cameron Alexander
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics & Formulation, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Christos Polytarchou
- Department of Biosciences, John van Geest Cancer Research Centre, School of Science & Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK.
| | - Tanya M Monaghan
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
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Alnaqbi N, Mohammad MG, Hamoudi R, Mabondzo A, Harati R. Molecular Heterogeneity of the Brain Endothelium. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:3462-3478. [PMID: 37185751 PMCID: PMC10136751 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45040227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is part of a neurovascular structure located in the brain's micro vessels, that is essential to maintain brain homeostasis, but prevents the brain uptake of most drugs. Because of its importance in neuro-pharmacotherapy, the BBB has been the subject of extensive research since its discovery over 100 years ago. Major advances in understanding the structure and function of the barrier have been made. Drugs are re-designed to cross the BBB. However, despite these efforts, overcoming the BBB efficiently to treat brain diseases safely remains challenging. The majority of BBB research studies focus on the BBB as a homogenous structure throughout the different brain regions. However, this simplification may lead to an inadequate understanding of the BBB function with significant therapeutic consequences. From this perspective, we analyzed the gene and protein expression profiles of the BBB in the micro vessels from the brains of mice that were isolated from two different brain regions, namely the cortex and the hippocampus. The expression profile of the inter-endothelial junctional protein (claudin-5), three ABC transporters (P-glycoprotein, Bcrp and Mrp-1), and three BBB receptors (lrp-1, TRF and GLUT-1) were analyzed. Our gene and protein analysis showed that the brain endothelium in the hippocampus exhibits different expression profiles compared to the brain cortex. Specifically, brain endothelial cells (BECs) of the hippocampus express higher gene levels of abcb1, abcg2, lrp1, and slc2a1 compared to the BECs of the cortex regions with a trend of increase for claudin-5, while BECs of the cortex express higher gene levels of abcc1 and trf compared to the hippocampus. At the protein levels, the P-gp expression was found to be significantly higher in the hippocampus compared to the cortex, while TRF was found to be up-regulated in the cortex. These data suggest that the structure and function of the BBB are not homogeneous, and imply that drugs are not delivered similarly among the different brain regions. Appreciation of the BBB heterogeneity by future research programs is thus critical for efficient drug delivery and the treatment of brain diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nada Alnaqbi
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohammad G Mohammad
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rifat Hamoudi
- Clinical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London W1W 7EJ, UK
| | - Aloïse Mabondzo
- Department of Medicines and Healthcare Technologies, Paris-Saclay University, The French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission, 91191 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Rania Harati
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates
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9
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Alsabbagh R, Ahmed M, Alqudah MAY, Hamoudi R, Harati R. Insights into the Molecular Mechanisms Mediating Extravasation in Brain Metastasis of Breast Cancer, Melanoma, and Lung Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15082258. [PMID: 37190188 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15082258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain metastasis is an incurable end-stage of systemic cancer associated with poor prognosis, and its incidence is increasing. Brain metastasis occurs through a multi-step cascade where cancer cells spread from the primary tumor site to the brain. The extravasation of tumor cells through the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a critical step in brain metastasis. During extravasation, circulating cancer cells roll along the brain endothelium (BE), adhere to it, then induce alterations in the endothelial barrier to transmigrate through the BBB and enter the brain. Rolling and adhesion are generally mediated by selectins and adhesion molecules induced by inflammatory mediators, while alterations in the endothelial barrier are mediated by proteolytic enzymes, including matrix metalloproteinase, and the transmigration step mediated by factors, including chemokines. However, the molecular mechanisms mediating extravasation are not yet fully understood. A better understanding of these mechanisms is essential as it may serve as the basis for the development of therapeutic strategies for the prevention or treatment of brain metastases. In this review, we summarize the molecular events that occur during the extravasation of cancer cells through the blood-brain barrier in three types of cancer most likely to develop brain metastasis: breast cancer, melanoma, and lung cancer. Common molecular mechanisms driving extravasation in these different tumors are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rama Alsabbagh
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Munazza Ahmed
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohammad A Y Alqudah
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan
| | - Rifat Hamoudi
- Clinical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London W1W 7EJ, UK
| | - Rania Harati
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
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Abdelsalam M, Ahmed M, Osaid Z, Hamoudi R, Harati R. Insights into Exosome Transport through the Blood-Brain Barrier and the Potential Therapeutical Applications in Brain Diseases. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:571. [PMID: 37111328 PMCID: PMC10144189 DOI: 10.3390/ph16040571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug delivery to the central nervous system (CNS) is limited due to the presence of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), a selective physiological barrier located at the brain microvessels that regulates the flow of cells, molecules and ions between the blood and the brain. Exosomes are nanosized extracellular vesicles expressed by all cell types and that function as cargos, allowing for communication between the cells. The exosomes were shown to cross or regulate the BBB in healthy and disease conditions. However, the mechanistic pathways by which exosomes cross the BBB have not been fully elucidated yet. In this review, we explore the transport mechanisms of exosomes through the BBB. A large body of evidence suggests that exosome transport through the BBB occurs primarily through transcytosis. The transcytosis mechanisms are influenced by several regulators. Inflammation and metastasis also enhance exosome trafficking across the BBB. We also shed light on the therapeutical applications of exosomes for treating brain diseases. Further investigations are essential to provide clearer insights related to trafficking of exosomes across the BBB and disease treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manal Abdelsalam
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates; (M.A.); (M.A.); (Z.O.)
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Munazza Ahmed
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates; (M.A.); (M.A.); (Z.O.)
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Zaynab Osaid
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates; (M.A.); (M.A.); (Z.O.)
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rifat Hamoudi
- Clinical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates;
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London W1W 7EJ, UK
| | - Rania Harati
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates; (M.A.); (M.A.); (Z.O.)
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates
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Jordan-Alejandre E, Campos-Parra AD, Castro-López DL, Silva-Cázares MB. Potential miRNA Use as a Biomarker: From Breast Cancer Diagnosis to Metastasis. Cells 2023; 12:cells12040525. [PMID: 36831192 PMCID: PMC9954167 DOI: 10.3390/cells12040525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. Despite advances in diagnosis and prognosis, distal metastases occur in these patients in up to 15% of cases within 3 years of diagnosis. The main organs in which BC metastasises are the bones, lungs, liver, and brain. Unfortunately, 90% of metastatic patients will die, making this an incurable disease. Researchers are therefore seeking biomarkers for diagnosis and metastasis in different organs. Optimally, such biomarkers should be easy to detect using, preferably, non-invasive methods, such as using miRNA molecules, which are small molecules of about 22 nt that have as their main function the post-transcriptional regulation of genes. Furthermore, due to their uncomplicated detection and reproducibility in the laboratory, they are a tool of complementary interest for diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. With this in mind, in this review, we focus on describing the most current studies that propose using miRNA independently as a potential biomarker for the diagnosis and prediction of brain, lung, liver, and bone metastases, as well as to open a window of opportunity to deepen this area of study to eventually use miRNAs molecules in clinical practice for the benefit of BC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Euclides Jordan-Alejandre
- Posgrado en Ciencias Genómicas, Universidad Autónoma de la Ciudad de México, Ciudad de México 03100, Mexico
| | - Alma D. Campos-Parra
- Subdirección de Investigación Básica, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología, Ciudad de México 14080, Mexico
| | - Dora Luz Castro-López
- Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí 78290, Mexico
| | - Macrina Beatriz Silva-Cázares
- Coordinación Académica Región Altiplano, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí 78760, Mexico
- Correspondence:
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Wang Y, Zhang R, Li J, Han X, Lu H, Su J, Liu Y, Tian X, Wang M, Xiong Y, Lan T, Zhang G, Liu Z. MiR-22-3p and miR-29a-3p synergistically inhibit hepatic stellate cell activation by targeting AKT3. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2022; 247:1712-1731. [PMID: 35833537 PMCID: PMC9638961 DOI: 10.1177/15353702221108379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis (HF) is a worldwide health problem for which there is no medically effective drug treatment at present, and which is characterized by activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition. The HF model in cholestatic rats by ligating the common bile duct was induced and the differentially expressed miRNAs in the liver tissues were analyzed by microarray, which showed that miR-22-3p and miR-29a-3p were significantly downregulated in bile-duct ligation (BDL) rat liver compared with the sham control. The synergistic anti-HF activity and molecular mechanism of miR-22-3p and miR-29a-3p by targeting AKT serine/threonine kinase 3 (AKT3) in HSCs were explored. The expression levels of miR-22-3p and miR-29a-3p were downregulated in activated LX-2 and human primary normal hepatic fibroblasts (NFs), whereas AKT3 was found to be upregulated in BDL rat liver and activated LX-2 cells. The proliferation, colony-forming, and migration ability of LX-2 were inhibited synergistically by miR-22-3p and miR-29a-3p. In addition, cellular senescence was induced and the expressions of the LX-2 fibrosis markers COL1A1 and α-SMA were inhibited by miR-22-3p and miR-29a-3p synergistically. Subsequently, these two miRNAs binding to the 3'UTR of AKT3 mRNA was predicted and evidenced by the luciferase reporter assay. Furthermore, the proliferation, migration, colony-forming ability, and the expression levels of COL1A1 and α-SMA were promoted and cellular senescence was inhibited by AKT3 in LX-2 cells. Thus, miR-22-3p/miR-29a-3p/AKT3 regulates the activation of HSCs, providing a new avenue in the study and treatment of HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yitong Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Ronghua Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Jingwu Li
- The Cancer Institute, Hebei Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Tangshan People’s Hospital, Tangshan 063001, China
| | - Xiangyang Han
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Hongjian Lu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Jinghui Su
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Yutan Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Xiaoli Tian
- Paraplegia Sanatorium of Tangshan, Tangshan 063000, China
| | - Meimei Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Yanan Xiong
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
| | - Tao Lan
- Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery Department, Cangzhou People’s Hospital, Cangzhou 061000, China
| | - Guangling Zhang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Medical-Industrial Integration Precision Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China,Guangling Zhang.
| | - Zhiyong Liu
- Health Science Center, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063210, China
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The Interaction of Human Papillomavirus Infection and Prostaglandin E2 Signaling in Carcinogenesis: A Focus on Cervical Cancer Therapeutics. Cells 2022; 11:cells11162528. [PMID: 36010605 PMCID: PMC9406919 DOI: 10.3390/cells11162528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic infection by high-risk human papillomaviruses (HPV) and chronic inflammation are factors associated with the onset and progression of several neoplasias, including cervical cancer. Oncogenic proteins E5, E6, and E7 from HPV are the main drivers of cervical carcinogenesis. In the present article, we review the general mechanisms of HPV-driven cervical carcinogenesis, as well as the involvement of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)/prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and downstream effectors in this pathology. We also review the evidence on the crosstalk between chronic HPV infection and PGE2 signaling, leading to immune response weakening and cervical cancer development. Finally, the last section updates the current therapeutic and preventive options targeting PGE2-derived inflammation and HPV infection in cervical cancer. These treatments include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, prophylactic and therapeutical vaccines, immunomodulators, antivirals, and nanotechnology. Inflammatory signaling pathways are closely related to the carcinogenic nature of the virus, highlighting inflammation as a co-factor for HPV-dependent carcinogenesis. Therefore, blocking inflammatory signaling pathways, modulating immune response against HPV, and targeting the virus represent excellent options for anti-tumoral therapies in cervical cancer.
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Hammash D, Mahfood M, Khoder G, Ahmed M, Tlili A, Hamoudi R, Harati R. miR-623 Targets Metalloproteinase-1 and Attenuates Extravasation of Brain Metastatic Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells. BREAST CANCER: TARGETS AND THERAPY 2022; 14:187-198. [PMID: 35936987 PMCID: PMC9354772 DOI: 10.2147/bctt.s372083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background Most breast cancer-related deaths result from metastasis. Understanding the molecular basis of metastasis is needed for the development of effective targeted and preventive strategies. Matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP1) plays an important role in brain metastasis (BM) of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) by promoting extravasation of cancer cells across the brain endothelium (BE). MMP1 expression is controlled by endogenous microRNAs. Preliminary bioinformatics analysis has revealed that miR-623, known to target the 3ʹUTR of MMP1, is significantly downregulated in brain metastatic tumors compared to primary BC tumors. However, the involvement of miR-623 in MMP1 upregulation in breast cancer brain metastatic cells (BCBMC) remains unexplored. Here, we investigated the role of miR-623 in MMP1 regulation and its impact on the extravasation of TNBC cells through the BE in vitro. Materials and Methods A loss-and-gain of function method was employed to address the effect of miR-623 modulation on MMP1 expression. MMP1 regulation by miR-623 was investigated by real-time PCR, western blot, luciferase and transwell migration assays using an in vitro human BE model. Results Our results confirmed that brain metastatic TNBC cells express lower levels of miR-623 compared with cells having low propensity to spread toward the brain. miR-623 binds to the 3′-untranslated region of MMP1 transcript and downregulates its expression. Restoring miR-623 expression significantly decreased MMP1 expression, preserved the endothelial barrier integrity, and attenuated transmigration of BCBMC through the BE. Conclusion Our study elucidates, for the first time, the crucial role of miR-623 as MMP1 direct regulator in BCBMC and sheds light on miR-623 as a novel therapeutic target that can be exploited to predict and prevent brain metastasis in TNBC. Importantly, the presents study helps in unraveling a brain metastasis-specific microRNA signature in TNBC that can be used as a guide to personalized metastasis prediction and preventive approach with better therapeutic outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dua Hammash
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mona Mahfood
- Department of Applied Biology, College of Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ghalia Khoder
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technologies, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Munazza Ahmed
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Abdelaziz Tlili
- Department of Applied Biology, College of Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rifat Hamoudi
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Clinical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London, UK
| | - Rania Harati
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Correspondence: Rania Harati, Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, Tel +971 6 505 7438, Fax +971 6 558 5812, Email
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Harati R, Hammad S, Tlili A, Mahfood M, Mabondzo A, Hamoudi R. miR-27a-3p regulates expression of intercellular junctions at the brain endothelium and controls the endothelial barrier permeability. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0262152. [PMID: 35025943 PMCID: PMC8758013 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0262152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The brain endothelial barrier permeability is governed by tight and adherens junction protein complexes that restrict paracellular permeability at the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Dysfunction of the inter-endothelial junctions has been implicated in neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis, stroke and Alzheimer’s disease. The molecular mechanisms underlying junctional dysfunction during BBB impairment remain elusive. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as versatile regulators of the BBB function under physiological and pathological conditions, and altered levels of BBB-associated microRNAs were demonstrated in a number of brain pathologies including neurodegeneration and neuroinflammatory diseases. Among the altered micro-RNAs, miR-27a-3p was found to be downregulated in a number of neurological diseases characterized by loss of inter-endothelial junctions and disruption of the barrier integrity. However, the relationship between miR-27a-3p and tight and adherens junctions at the brain endothelium remains unexplored. Whether miR-27a-3p is involved in regulation of the junctions at the brain endothelium remains to be determined. Methods Using a gain-and-loss of function approach, we modulated levels of miR-27a-3p in an in-vitro model of the brain endothelium, key component of the BBB, and examined the resultant effect on the barrier paracellular permeability and on the expression of essential tight and adherens junctions. The mechanisms governing the regulation of junctional proteins by miR-27a-3p were also explored. Results Our results showed that miR-27a-3p inhibitor increases the barrier permeability and causes reduction of claudin-5 and occludin, two proteins highly enriched at the tight junction, while miR-27a-3p mimic reduced the paracellular leakage and increased claudin-5 and occludin protein levels. Interestingly, we found that miR-27-3p induces expression of claudin-5 and occludin by downregulating Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3 beta (GSK3ß) and activating Wnt/ß-catenin signaling, a key pathway required for the BBB maintenance. Conclusion For the first time, we showed that miR-27a-3p is a positive regulator of key tight junction proteins, claudin-5 and occludin, at the brain endothelium through targeting GSK3ß gene and activating Wnt/ß-catenin signaling. Thus, miR-27a-3p may constitute a novel therapeutic target that could be exploited to prevent BBB dysfunction and preserves its integrity in neurological disorders characterized by impairment of the barrier’s function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rania Harati
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.,Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Saba Hammad
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.,Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Abdelaziz Tlili
- Department of Applied Biology, College of Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mona Mahfood
- Department of Applied Biology, College of Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Aloïse Mabondzo
- Department of Medicines and Healthcare Technologies, Paris-Saclay University, The French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Rifat Hamoudi
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.,Clinical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.,Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Regulation of P-glycoprotein by miR-27a-3p at the Brain Endothelial Barrier. J Pharm Sci 2021; 111:1470-1479. [PMID: 34695419 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2021.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Multi-drug resistance P-glycoprotein (P-gp/MDR1) is one of the most clinically relevant ABC transporters, highly enriched at the blood-brain barrier (BBB) with a broad substrate spectrum including therapeutic drugs and metabolic waste products. Altered P-gp transport function has been implicated in multi-drug resistance and in the pathogenesis and progression of neurological diseases. Recent studies have shown that P-gp expression is modulated by micro-RNAs in peripheral organs. Particularly, miR-27a-3p has been shown to play a critical role in the regulation of P-gp in multi-drug resistant cancer cells. In brain disorders, altered levels of miR-27a-3p were reported in several diseases associated with alterations in P-gp expression at the BBB. However, effect of altered miR-27a-3p expression on P-gp expression at the BBB remains to be determined. In this study, we investigated the role of miR-27a-3p in the regulation of P-gp expression and activity at the brain endothelium. Levels of miR-27a-3p were modulated by mimic and inhibitor transfection in an in-vitro model of human brain endothelial hCMEC/D3 cells. Effect of miR-27a-3p modulation on P-gp expression and activity was examined and the underlying regulatory mechanisms explored. Our results showed that transfection of hCMEC/D3 cells with miR-27a-3p mimic induces expression and activity of P-gp while miR-27a-3p inhibition exerted opposite effects. Mechanistic studies revealed that miR-27a-3p regulates P-gp by mediating Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3 Beta (GSK3ß) inhibition and activating Wnt/ß-catenin signaling. These findings shed light on miR-27a-3p/GSK3ß/ß-catenin as a novel axis that could be exploited to modulate P-gp efflux activity at the brain endothelium and help improving CNS diseases treatment or brain protection.
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