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Mohamed FS, Jalal D, Fadel YM, El-Mashtoly SF, Khaled WZ, Sayed AA, Ghazy MA. Characterization and comparative profiling of piRNAs in serum biopsies of pediatric Wilms tumor patients. Cancer Cell Int 2025; 25:163. [PMID: 40287690 PMCID: PMC12034122 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-025-03780-4] [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: 01/15/2025] [Accepted: 04/03/2025] [Indexed: 04/29/2025] Open
Abstract
Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs involved in transposon silencing and linked to cancer progression. However, their role in Wilms tumors (WT) remains unexplored. We conducted a thorough analysis and characterization of piRNAs in serum liquid biopsies of WT patients. Our study examined their expression patterns and functional annotations related to WT pathogenesis, as well as their clinical potential for diagnosis and monitoring. We identified 307 piRNAs expressed in WT serum samples, with 4% classified as repeat-related and 96% as non-repeat-related. The most abundant repeat-related piRNAs originated from LINEs retrotransposon, while tRNA-derived piRNAs were the most prevalent among non-repeat-related piRNAs. Furthermore, a distinct profile of 34 piRNAs showed significant differential expression in WT patients compared to healthy controls-22 downregulated and 12 upregulated. The target genes of differentially expressed piRNAs exhibited significant enrichment in biological pathways related to cytokine activity, inflammatory responses, TGF-beta signaling, p38 MAPK, and ErbB signaling. These genes are also involved in DNA damage response, DNA methylation, cell cycle regulation, as well as kidney development and function. Low expression levels of several piRNAs, especially piR-hsa-1,913,711, piR-hsa-28,190, piR-hsa-28,849, piR-hsa-28,848, and piR-hsa-28,318, showed significant diagnostic potential as non-invasive biomarkers for WT (AUC > 0.8, p < 0.05). Their expression levels also significantly correlated with adverse pathological features, including metastasis, anaplasia, and bilateral WT development. In conclusion, non-transposon-related piRNAs may serve as reliable biomarkers for WT and possess potential non-germline functions, particularly in regulating DNA methylation, cell growth, immune responses, and immune responses. Further studies are warranted to elucidate their functional significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatma S Mohamed
- Biotechnology Program, Institute of Basic and Applied Science Egypt-Japan University of Science and Technology, New Borg El-Arab City, Alexandria, Egypt
- Biochemistry ProgramFaculty of Science, Minia University, El-Minia, Egypt
| | - Deena Jalal
- Genomics and Metagenomics Program, Department of Basic Research, Children's Cancer Hospital Egypt, Cairo, 57357, Egypt
| | - Youssef M Fadel
- Genomics and Metagenomics Program, Department of Basic Research, Children's Cancer Hospital Egypt, Cairo, 57357, Egypt
- Bioinformatics Group, Center for Informatics Science, School of Information Technology and Computer Science, Nile University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Samir F El-Mashtoly
- Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology, Albert Einstein-Straße 9, 07745, Jena, Germany
| | - Wael Z Khaled
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, National Cancer Institute, Cairo, Egypt
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Children's Cancer Hospital Egypt, Cairo, 57357, Egypt
- Consultant Pediatric Oncology, Mouwasat Hospital, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed A Sayed
- Genomics and Metagenomics Program, Department of Basic Research, Children's Cancer Hospital Egypt, Cairo, 57357, Egypt.
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed A Ghazy
- Biotechnology Program, Institute of Basic and Applied Science Egypt-Japan University of Science and Technology, New Borg El-Arab City, Alexandria, Egypt
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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Khavari F, Najafi R, Afshar S, Jalali A, Hashemi M, Soltanian A, Nouri F. A network-based analysis to identify a piRNA-target signature related to colorectal cancer prognosis: in silico and in vitro study. Discov Oncol 2025; 16:590. [PMID: 40263143 PMCID: PMC12014994 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-025-02373-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2025] [Indexed: 04/24/2025] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) are diagnosed in advanced stages and have worse overall survival. Also, this cancer incidence is rising in many countries. The aim of this study is to find piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNA) predicting the prognosis of patients with colorectal cancer, using bioinformatics and evaluating these results through RT-qPCR method. METHODS The target genes of piRNAs were predicted using miRDB and TargetRank databases. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed by STRING and were analyzed with Cytoscape software and the MCODE tool used for module construction. Expression levels of final selected piRNAs in 18 pairs of CRC tissue and adjacent normal tissue were measured by quantitative real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). RESULTS Twenty CRC-related piRNAs and 980 target genes were included in this study. After PPI analysis 19 hub genes were identified. Then, the prognostic value of these hub genes was assessed via Kaplan-Meier survival analyses. This survival analysis indicated that the expression of six genes was significantly associated with overall survival of patients with CRC. These genes are targets of hsa-piR-487, hsa-piR-28944 and piR-hsa-8401. Also, the pathway analysis revealed the potential signal pathways of these piRNAs targets involved in CRC. RT-qPCR showed that hsa-piR-487 and hsa-piR-28944 expression significantly were down-regulated in CRC tumor tissues compared with the adjacent normal tissues (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). CONCLUSION It seems that hsa-piR-487 and hsa-piR-28944 can be considered as a potential biomarker for the diagnosis of CRC. However, it is still necessary to conduct studies with a higher statistical population and measure them in the serum of patients to confirm these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Khavari
- Research Center for Molecular Medicine, Institute of Cancer, Avicenna Health Research Institute, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Rezvan Najafi
- Research Center for Molecular Medicine, Institute of Cancer, Avicenna Health Research Institute, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Saeed Afshar
- Research Center for Molecular Medicine, Institute of Cancer, Avicenna Health Research Institute, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Akram Jalali
- Research Center for Molecular Medicine, Institute of Cancer, Avicenna Health Research Institute, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Hashemi
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Soltanian
- Modeling of Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Institute of Health Sciences and Technologies, Avicenna Health Research Institute, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Nouri
- Research Center for Molecular Medicine, Institute of Cancer, Avicenna Health Research Institute, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran.
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran.
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Solaimani M, Hosseinzadeh S, Abasi M. Non-coding RNAs, a double-edged sword in breast cancer prognosis. Cancer Cell Int 2025; 25:123. [PMID: 40170036 PMCID: PMC11959806 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-025-03679-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2025] [Indexed: 04/03/2025] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a rising issue worldwide, and numerous studies have focused on understanding the underlying reasons for its occurrence and finding proper ways to defeat it. By applying technological advances, researchers are continuously uncovering and updating treatments in cancer therapy. Their vast functions in the regulation of cell growth and proliferation and their significant role in the progression of diseases, including cancer. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of ncRNAs in breast cancer, focusing on long non-coding RNAs such as HOTAIR, MALAT1, and NEAT1, as well as microRNAs such as miR-21, miR-221/222, and miR-155. These ncRNAs are pivotal in regulating cell proliferation, metastasis, drug resistance, and apoptosis. Additionally, we discuss experimental approaches that are useful for studying them and highlight the advantages and challenges of each method. We then explain the results of these clinical trials and offer insights for future studies by discussing major existing gaps. On the basis of an extensive number of studies, this review provides valuable insights into the potential of ncRNAs in cancer therapy. Key findings show that even though the functions of ncRNAs are vast and undeniable in cancer, there are still complications associated with their therapeutic use. Moreover, there is an absence of sufficient experiments regarding their application in mouse models, which is an area to work on. By emphasizing the crucial role of ncRNAs, this review underscores the need for innovative approaches and further studies to explore their potential in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Solaimani
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Amol University of Special Modern Technologies, Amol, Iran
| | - Sahar Hosseinzadeh
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Medical Biotechnology, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Mozhgan Abasi
- Immunogenetics Research Center, Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, PO Box: 48175/861, Sari, Iran.
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4
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Zhao AR, Kouznetsova VL, Kesari S, Tsigelny IF. Machine-learning diagnostics of breast cancer using piRNA biomarkers. Biomarkers 2025; 30:167-177. [PMID: 39899375 DOI: 10.1080/1354750x.2025.2461067] [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: 12/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2025] [Indexed: 02/05/2025]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Prior studies have shown that small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) are associated with cancer occurrence or development. Recently, a newly discovered class of small ncRNAs known as PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) have been found to play a vital role in physiological processes and cancer initiation. This study aims to utilize piRNAs as innovative, noninvasive diagnostic biomarkers for breast cancer. Our objective is to develop computational methods that leverage piRNA attributes for breast cancer prediction and its application in diagnostics. METHODS We created a set of piRNA sequence descriptors using information extracted from the piRNA sequences. To ensure accuracy, we found a path to convert non-standard piRNA names to standard ones to enable precise identification of these sequences. Using these descriptors, we applied machine-learning (ML) techniques in WEKA (Waikato Environment for Knowledge Analysis) to a dataset of piRNA to assess the predictive accuracy of the following classifiers: Logistic Regression model, Sequential Minimal Optimization (SMO), Random Forest classifier, and Logistic Model Tree (LMT). Furthermore, we performed Shapley additive explanations (SHAP) Analysis to understand which descriptors were the most relevant to the prediction accuracy. The ML models were then validated on an independent dataset to evaluate their effectiveness in predicting breast cancer. RESULTS The top three performing classifiers in WEKA were Logistic Regression, SMO, and LMT. The Logistic Regression model achieved an accuracy of 90.7% in predicting breast cancer, while SMO and LMT attained 89.7% and 85.65%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrates the effectiveness of using ML-based piRNA classifiers in diagnosing breast cancer and contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting piRNAs as biomarkers in cancer diagnosis. However, additional research is needed to validate these findings and further assess the clinical applicability of this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy R Zhao
- Scholars Program, CureScience Institute, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Valentina L Kouznetsova
- San Diego Supercomputer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- BIAna Institute, San Diego, CA, USA
- CureScience Institute, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Santosh Kesari
- Department of Neuro-oncology, Pacific Neuroscience Institute, Santa Monica, CA, USA
| | - Igor F Tsigelny
- San Diego Supercomputer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- BIAna Institute, San Diego, CA, USA
- CureScience Institute, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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5
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Chuang TD, Ton N, Rysling S, Baghdasarian D, Khorram O. Differential Expression of Small Non-Coding RNAs in Uterine Leiomyomas. Int J Mol Sci 2025; 26:1688. [PMID: 40004152 PMCID: PMC11854932 DOI: 10.3390/ijms26041688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2025] [Revised: 02/14/2025] [Accepted: 02/14/2025] [Indexed: 02/27/2025] Open
Abstract
We performed next-generation sequencing (NGS) on RNA from 19 paired leiomyoma (Lyo) and myometrium (Myo) specimens, stratified by race/ethnicity (White: n = 7; Black: n = 12) and mediator complex subunit 12 (MED12) mutation status (mutated: n = 10; non-mutated: n = 9). Analysis identified 2,189 small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) with altered expression in Lyo compared to paired Myo (≥1.5-fold change), including small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs), small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), and PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs). Among these, 17 sncRNAs showed differential expression in the MED12-mutated group versus Myo, while minimal changes were observed in the non-mutated group. Additionally, 31 sncRNAs displayed differential expression in Black women compared to White women. For validation, five novel miRNAs (miR-19a-3p, miR-99a-5p, miR-3196, miR-499a-5p, and miR-30d-3p) and five piRNAs (piR-009295, piR-020326, piR-020365, piR-006426, and piR-020485) were analyzed in 51 paired Lyo samples using qRT-PCR. Reduced expression of the selected sncRNAs was confirmed in Lyo versus Myo, with miR-19a-3p, miR-3196, miR-30d-3p, piR-006426, and piR-020485 linked to MED12 status, while miR-499a-5p and miR-30d-3p were associated with race/ethnicity. These findings suggest that sncRNA dysregulation contributes to altered gene expression in Lyo, influenced by MED12 mutation and racial background.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsai-Der Chuang
- The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Torrance, CA 90502, USA; (T.-D.C.); (N.T.); (S.R.)
| | - Nhu Ton
- The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Torrance, CA 90502, USA; (T.-D.C.); (N.T.); (S.R.)
| | - Shawn Rysling
- The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Torrance, CA 90502, USA; (T.-D.C.); (N.T.); (S.R.)
| | - Daniel Baghdasarian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA;
| | - Omid Khorram
- The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Torrance, CA 90502, USA; (T.-D.C.); (N.T.); (S.R.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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Shaker FH, Sanad EF, Elghazaly H, Hsia SM, Hamdy NM. piR-823 tale as emerging cancer-hallmark molecular marker in different cancer types: a step-toward ncRNA-precision. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2025; 398:47-68. [PMID: 39102033 PMCID: PMC11787197 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03308-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) have received a lot of attention for their functions in cancer research. This class of short non-coding RNAs (ncRNA) has roles in genomic stability, chromatin remodeling, messenger RNA (mRNA) integrity, and genome structure. We summarized the mechanisms underlying the biogenesis and regulatory molecular functions of piRNAs. Among all piRNAs studied in cancer, this review offers a comprehensive analysis of the emerging roles of piR-823 in various types of cancer, including colorectal, gastric, liver, breast, and renal cancers, as well as multiple myeloma. piR-823 has emerged as a crucial modulator of various cancer hallmarks through regulating multiple pathways. In the current review, we analyzed several databases and conducted an extensive literature search to explore the influence of piR-823 in carcinogenesis in addition to describing the potential application of piR-823 as prognostic and diagnostic markers as well as the therapeutic potential toward ncRNA precision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatma H Shaker
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Abassia, 11566, Egypt
| | - Eman F Sanad
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Abassia, 11566, Egypt
| | - Hesham Elghazaly
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Abassia, 11566, Egypt
| | - Shih-Min Hsia
- School of Food and Safety, Nutrition Research Center, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 110301, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Metabolism and Obesity Sciences, College of Nutrition, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 110301, Taiwan
| | - Nadia M Hamdy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Abassia, 11566, Egypt.
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7
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Beňačka R, Szabóová D, Guľašová Z, Hertelyová Z. Non-Coding RNAs in Breast Cancer: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Implications. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 26:127. [PMID: 39795985 PMCID: PMC11719911 DOI: 10.3390/ijms26010127] [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: 11/24/2024] [Revised: 12/18/2024] [Accepted: 12/23/2024] [Indexed: 01/13/2025] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most prevalent forms of cancer globally, and has recently become the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in women. BC is a heterogeneous disease comprising various histopathological and molecular subtypes with differing levels of malignancy, and each patient has an individual prognosis. Etiology and pathogenesis are complex and involve a considerable number of genetic alterations and dozens of alterations in non-coding RNA expression. Non-coding RNAs are part of an abundant family of single-stranded RNA molecules acting as key regulators in DNA replication, mRNA processing and translation, cell differentiation, growth, and overall genomic stability. In the context of breast cancer, non-coding RNAs are involved in cell cycle control and tumor cell migration and invasion, as well as treatment resistance. Alterations in non-coding RNA expression may contribute to the development and progression of breast cancer, making them promising biomarkers and targets for novel therapeutic approaches. Currently, the use of non-coding RNAs has not yet been applied to routine practice; however, their potential has been very well studied. The present review is a literature overview of current knowledge and its objective is to delineate the function of diverse classes of non-coding RNAs in breast cancer, with a particular emphasis on their potential utility as diagnostic and prognostic markers or as therapeutic targets and tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman Beňačka
- Department of Pathophysiology, Medical Faculty, Pavol Jozef Šafarik University, 04011 Košice, Slovakia;
| | - Daniela Szabóová
- Department of Pathophysiology, Medical Faculty, Pavol Jozef Šafarik University, 04011 Košice, Slovakia;
| | - Zuzana Guľašová
- Center of Clinical and Preclinical Research MEDIPARK, Pavol Jozef Šafarik University, 04011 Košice, Slovakia; (Z.G.); (Z.H.)
| | - Zdenka Hertelyová
- Center of Clinical and Preclinical Research MEDIPARK, Pavol Jozef Šafarik University, 04011 Košice, Slovakia; (Z.G.); (Z.H.)
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Öner Ç, Köser F, Çolak E. The association of piR-651 and piR-823 on metastatic and invasive characteristics of triple negative breast cancer cells. NUCLEOSIDES, NUCLEOTIDES & NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024:1-17. [PMID: 39630699 DOI: 10.1080/15257770.2024.2437037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2024] [Revised: 11/14/2024] [Accepted: 11/27/2024] [Indexed: 12/07/2024]
Abstract
PIWI-Interacting RNAs are small non-coding RNAs derived from single-stranded RNAs which plays a crucial role in epigenetic regulation through transposon silencing and mRNA degradation via deamination. This study aimed to inhibit piR-651 and piR-823 in MDA-MB-231 triple-negative breast cancer cells and to explore their potential effects on healthy HUVEC cells. Non-target, anti-piR-651, and anti-piR-823 sequences were transfected in bothHUVEC and MDA-MB-231 cells using Lipofectamine. Proliferation and motility were assessed at 24, 48, and 72 h post-transfection in both cell lines. Based on the motility findings, MDA-MB-231 cells were underwent an invasion assay using crystal violet staining. The expressions of Ki-67, HIF-1α, MMP-2, and MMP-9 genes were measured at 48 h, when both cell lines exhibited the most significant effects of inhibition. The optimal time for proliferation of anti-piR-651 and anti-piR-823 transfected MDA-MB-231 cells was determined to be at 48 h, as indicated by decreased motility and invasion assay results (p < 0.001). NeverthelessHowever, there was no significant difference in the motility and proliferation of HUVECss transfected with anti-piR-651 and anti-piR-823 compared to the control group (p > 0.05). Asides from MMP-2 in anti-piR-823 transfected HUVECs and HIF-1α in anti-piR-823 transfected MDA-MB-231 cells, gene expressions of Ki-67, HIF-1α, MMP-2, and MMP-9 were reduced in both cell lines (p < 0.001). Inhibition of piR-651 and piR-823 decreased the survival and metastasis of cancer cells, without causing vital structural changes in healthy cells. Future research in cancer gene therapy or genetic modification may benefit from investigating piR-651 and piR-823 as possible inhibitors of breast cancer invasion and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Çağrı Öner
- Department of Medical Biology, Kırklareli University, Faculty of Medicine, Kırklareli, Turkey
- Department of Medical and Genetics, Maltepe University, Faculty of Medicine, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Faruk Köser
- Faculty of Medicine, Maltepe University, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Ertuğrul Çolak
- Department of Biostatistics, Eskişehir Osmangazi University, Faculty of Medicine, Eskişehir, Turkey
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Silvia BJ, Shetty S, Behera R, Khandelwal A, Gore M, Bairy M, Ajjanagadde A, Shaheeda A, Bhat GK, Kabekkodu SP. A comprehensive review on the role of PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA) in gynecological cancers. Life Sci 2024; 357:123065. [PMID: 39299387 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.123065] [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: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 09/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
Gynecological cancers are currently a major public health concern due to increase in incidence and mortality globally. PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA) are small non-coding RNA consisting of 24-32 nucleotides that plays regulatory role by interacting with piwi family of protein. Recent studies have revealed that piRNAs are expressed in various kinds of human tissues and influences key signalling pathways at transcriptional and post transcriptional levels. Studies have also that suggested piRNA and PIWI proteins display frequently altered expression in several cancers. Recent research has indicated that abnormal expression of piRNA may play a significant role in development and progression of gynecological cancers. Clinical studies suggested that, abnormally expressed piRNAs may serve as diagnostic and prognostic marker, and as potential therapeutic targets in these cancers. In the present review article, we discussed the emerging role of piRNA and their utility as diagnostic and prognostic marker in gynecological cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bobby J Silvia
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka 576106, India
| | - Sachin Shetty
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka 576106, India
| | - Roopal Behera
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka 576106, India
| | - Ayush Khandelwal
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka 576106, India
| | - Mrudula Gore
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka 576106, India
| | - Medha Bairy
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka 576106, India
| | - Anagha Ajjanagadde
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka 576106, India
| | - Aishath Shaheeda
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka 576106, India
| | - Gahan Krishna Bhat
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka 576106, India
| | - Shama Prasada Kabekkodu
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka 576106, India.
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10
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Zhang H, Li Y. Potential roles of PIWI-interacting RNAs in breast cancer, a new therapeutic strategy. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 257:155318. [PMID: 38688203 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155318] [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: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) has been the focus of numerous studies aimed at identifying novel biological markers for its early detection. PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), a subset of small non-coding RNAs, have emerged as potential markers due to their aberrant expression in various cancers. PiRNAs have recently gained attention due to their aberrant expression in various cancers, including BC. PiRNAs, exhibit diverse biological activities, such as epigenetic regulation of gene and protein expression and their association with cell proliferation and metastasis has been well-established. As the field of non-coding RNAs rapidly evolves, there is great anticipation that therapies targeting piRNAs will advance swiftly. This review will delve into the various biological functions of piRNAs, such as gene suppression, transposon silencing, and epigenetic regulation of genes. The review will also highlight the role of piRNAs as either progenitors or suppressors in cancers, with a particular focus on BC. Lastly, it will touch upon the potential of piRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongpeng Zhang
- The Second Clinical College, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Yanshu Li
- School of Life Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China.
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Trnkova L, Buocikova V, Mego M, Cumova A, Burikova M, Bohac M, Miklikova S, Cihova M, Smolkova B. Epigenetic deregulation in breast cancer microenvironment: Implications for tumor progression and therapeutic strategies. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 174:116559. [PMID: 38603889 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116559] [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: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer comprises a substantial proportion of cancer diagnoses in women and is a primary cause of cancer-related mortality. While hormone-responsive cases generally have a favorable prognosis, the aggressive nature of triple-negative breast cancer presents challenges, with intrinsic resistance to established treatments being a persistent issue. The complexity intensifies with the emergence of acquired resistance, further complicating the management of breast cancer. Epigenetic changes, encompassing DNA methylation, histone and RNA modifications, and non-coding RNAs, are acknowledged as crucial contributors to the heterogeneity of breast cancer. The unique epigenetic landscape harbored by each cellular component within the tumor microenvironment (TME) adds great diversity to the intricate regulations which influence therapeutic responses. The TME, a sophisticated ecosystem of cellular and non-cellular elements interacting with tumor cells, establishes an immunosuppressive microenvironment and fuels processes such as tumor growth, angiogenesis, and extracellular matrix remodeling. These factors contribute to challenging conditions in cancer treatment by fostering a hypoxic environment, inducing metabolic stress, and creating physical barriers to drug delivery. This article delves into the complex connections between breast cancer treatment response, underlying epigenetic changes, and vital interactions within the TME. To restore sensitivity to treatment, it emphasizes the need for combination therapies considering epigenetic changes specific to individual members of the TME. Recognizing the pivotal role of epigenetics in drug resistance and comprehending the specificities of breast TME is essential for devising more effective therapeutic strategies. The development of reliable biomarkers for patient stratification will facilitate tailored and precise treatment approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenka Trnkova
- Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, Bratislava 845 05, Slovakia
| | - Verona Buocikova
- Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, Bratislava 845 05, Slovakia
| | - Michal Mego
- Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, Bratislava 845 05, Slovakia; 2nd Department of Oncology, Comenius University, Faculty of Medicine & National Cancer Institute, Bratislava 83310, Slovakia
| | - Andrea Cumova
- Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, Bratislava 845 05, Slovakia
| | - Monika Burikova
- Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, Bratislava 845 05, Slovakia
| | - Martin Bohac
- 2nd Department of Oncology, Comenius University, Faculty of Medicine & National Cancer Institute, Bratislava 83310, Slovakia; Regenmed Ltd., Medena 29, Bratislava 811 01, Slovakia; Institute of Medical Biology, Genetics and Clinical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Sasinkova 4, Bratislava 811 08, Slovakia
| | - Svetlana Miklikova
- Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, Bratislava 845 05, Slovakia
| | - Marina Cihova
- Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, Bratislava 845 05, Slovakia
| | - Bozena Smolkova
- Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, Bratislava 845 05, Slovakia.
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Giulietti M, Piva F, Cecati M, Maggio S, Guescini M, Saladino T, Scortichini L, Crocetti S, Caramanti M, Battelli N, Romagnoli E. Effects of Eribulin on the RNA Content of Extracellular Vesicles Released by Metastatic Breast Cancer Cells. Cells 2024; 13:479. [PMID: 38534323 PMCID: PMC10969587 DOI: 10.3390/cells13060479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small lipid particles secreted by almost all human cells into the extracellular space. They perform the essential function of cell-to-cell communication, and their role in promoting breast cancer progression has been well demonstrated. It is known that EVs released by triple-negative and highly aggressive MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells treated with paclitaxel, a microtubule-targeting agent (MTA), promoted chemoresistance in EV-recipient cells. Here, we studied the RNA content of EVs produced by the same MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells treated with another MTA, eribulin mesylate. In particular, we analyzed the expression of different RNA species, including mRNAs, lncRNAs, miRNAs, snoRNAs, piRNAs and tRNA fragments by RNA-seq. Then, we performed differential expression analysis, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), functional enrichment analysis, and miRNA-target identification. Our findings demonstrate the possible involvement of EVs from eribulin-treated cells in the spread of chemoresistance, prompting the design of strategies that selectively target tumor EVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Giulietti
- Department of Specialistic Clinical and Odontostomatological Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - Francesco Piva
- Department of Specialistic Clinical and Odontostomatological Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - Monia Cecati
- Department of Specialistic Clinical and Odontostomatological Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - Serena Maggio
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Michele Guescini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Tiziana Saladino
- Oncology Unit AST3, Macerata Hospital, Via Santa Lucia 2, 62100 Macerata, Italy
| | - Laura Scortichini
- Oncology Unit AST3, Macerata Hospital, Via Santa Lucia 2, 62100 Macerata, Italy
| | - Sonia Crocetti
- Oncology Unit AST3, Macerata Hospital, Via Santa Lucia 2, 62100 Macerata, Italy
| | - Miriam Caramanti
- Oncology Unit AST3, Macerata Hospital, Via Santa Lucia 2, 62100 Macerata, Italy
| | - Nicola Battelli
- Oncology Unit AST3, Macerata Hospital, Via Santa Lucia 2, 62100 Macerata, Italy
| | - Emanuela Romagnoli
- Oncology Unit AST3, Macerata Hospital, Via Santa Lucia 2, 62100 Macerata, Italy
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Garcia-Borja E, Siegl F, Mateu R, Slaby O, Sedo A, Busek P, Sana J. Critical appraisal of the piRNA-PIWI axis in cancer and cancer stem cells. Biomark Res 2024; 12:15. [PMID: 38303021 PMCID: PMC10836005 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-024-00563-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Small noncoding RNAs play an important role in various disease states, including cancer. PIWI proteins, a subfamily of Argonaute proteins, and PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) were originally described as germline-specific molecules that inhibit the deleterious activity of transposable elements. However, several studies have suggested a role for the piRNA-PIWI axis in somatic cells, including somatic stem cells. Dysregulated expression of piRNAs and PIWI proteins in human tumors implies that, analogously to their roles in undifferentiated cells under physiological conditions, these molecules may be important for cancer stem cells and thus contribute to cancer progression. We provide an overview of piRNA biogenesis and critically review the evidence for the role of piRNA-PIWI axis in cancer stem cells. In addition, we examine the potential of piRNAs and PIWI proteins to become biomarkers in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Garcia-Borja
- Laboratory of Cancer Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Experimental Oncology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, U Nemocnice 478/5, Prague 2, 128 53, Czech Republic
| | - Frantisek Siegl
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, Brno, 625 00, Czech Republic
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Rosana Mateu
- Laboratory of Cancer Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Experimental Oncology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, U Nemocnice 478/5, Prague 2, 128 53, Czech Republic
| | - Ondrej Slaby
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, Brno, 625 00, Czech Republic
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Aleksi Sedo
- Laboratory of Cancer Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Experimental Oncology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, U Nemocnice 478/5, Prague 2, 128 53, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Busek
- Laboratory of Cancer Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Experimental Oncology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, U Nemocnice 478/5, Prague 2, 128 53, Czech Republic.
| | - Jiri Sana
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, Brno, 625 00, Czech Republic.
- Department of Comprehensive Cancer Care, Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute, Brno, Czech Republic.
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czech Republic.
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Yan Y, Tian D, Zhao B, Li Z, Huang Z, Li K, Chen X, Zhou L, Feng Y, Yang Z. piR-1919609 Is an Ideal Potential Target for Reversing Platinum Resistance in Ovarian Cancer. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2024; 23:15330338241249692. [PMID: 38706262 PMCID: PMC11072069 DOI: 10.1177/15330338241249692] [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] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are a type of noncoding small RNA that can interact with PIWI-like RNA-mediated gene silencing (PIWIL) proteins to affect biological processes such as transposon silencing through epigenetic effects. Recent studies have found that piRNAs are widely dysregulated in tumors and associated with tumor progression and a poor prognosis. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of piR-1919609 on the proliferation, apoptosis, and drug resistance of ovarian cancer cells. METHODS In this study, we used small RNA sequencing to screen and identify differentially expressed piRNAs in primary ovarian cancer, recurrent ovarian cancer, and normal ovaries. A large-scale verification study was performed to verify the expression of piR-1919609 in different types of ovarian tissue, including ovarian cancer tissue and normal ovaries, by RT-PCR and to analyze its association with the clinical prognosis of ovarian cancer. The expression of PIWILs in ovarian cancer was verified by RT-PCR, Western blotting and immunofluorescence. The effects of piR-1919609 on ovarian cancer cell proliferation, apoptosis and drug resistance were studied through in vitro and in vivo models. RESULTS (1) piR-1919609 was highly expressed in platinum-resistant ovarian cancer tissues (p < 0.05), and this upregulation was significantly associated with a poor prognosis and a shorter recurrence time in ovarian cancer patients (p < 0.05). (2) PIWIL2 was strongly expressed in ovarian cancer tissues (p < 0.05). It was expressed both in the cytoplasm and nucleus of ovarian cancer cells. (3) Overexpression of piR-1919609 promoted ovarian cancer cell proliferation, inhibited apoptosis, and promoted tumor growth in nude mice. (4) Inhibition of piR-1919609 effectively reversed ovarian cancer drug resistance. CONCLUSION In summary, we showed that piR-1919609 is involved in the regulation of drug resistance in ovarian cancer cells and might be an ideal potential target for reversing platinum resistance in ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Yan
- Department of Gynecology, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
- Key Laboratory of Early Prevention and Treatment for Regional High Frequency Tumor, (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, China
- Key Laboratory of High-Incidence-Tumor Prevention & Treatment, (Guangxi Medical University), Nanning, China
| | - Dan Tian
- Department of Gynecology, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
- Key Laboratory of Early Prevention and Treatment for Regional High Frequency Tumor, (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, China
- Key Laboratory of High-Incidence-Tumor Prevention & Treatment, (Guangxi Medical University), Nanning, China
| | - Bingbing Zhao
- Department of Gynecology, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
- Key Laboratory of Early Prevention and Treatment for Regional High Frequency Tumor, (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, China
- Key Laboratory of High-Incidence-Tumor Prevention & Treatment, (Guangxi Medical University), Nanning, China
| | - Zhuang Li
- Department of Gynecology, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
- Key Laboratory of Early Prevention and Treatment for Regional High Frequency Tumor, (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, China
- Key Laboratory of High-Incidence-Tumor Prevention & Treatment, (Guangxi Medical University), Nanning, China
| | - Zhijiong Huang
- Department of Gynecology, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
- Key Laboratory of Early Prevention and Treatment for Regional High Frequency Tumor, (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, China
- Key Laboratory of High-Incidence-Tumor Prevention & Treatment, (Guangxi Medical University), Nanning, China
| | - Kuina Li
- Department of Gynecology, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
- Key Laboratory of Early Prevention and Treatment for Regional High Frequency Tumor, (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, China
- Key Laboratory of High-Incidence-Tumor Prevention & Treatment, (Guangxi Medical University), Nanning, China
| | - Xiaoqi Chen
- Department of Gynecology, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
- Key Laboratory of Early Prevention and Treatment for Regional High Frequency Tumor, (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, China
- Key Laboratory of High-Incidence-Tumor Prevention & Treatment, (Guangxi Medical University), Nanning, China
| | - Lu Zhou
- Department of Gynecology, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
- Key Laboratory of Early Prevention and Treatment for Regional High Frequency Tumor, (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, China
- Key Laboratory of High-Incidence-Tumor Prevention & Treatment, (Guangxi Medical University), Nanning, China
- Department of Cardiopulmonary Center, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
| | - Yanying Feng
- Department of Cardiopulmonary Center, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
| | - Zhijun Yang
- Department of Gynecology, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
- Key Laboratory of Early Prevention and Treatment for Regional High Frequency Tumor, (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, China
- Key Laboratory of High-Incidence-Tumor Prevention & Treatment, (Guangxi Medical University), Nanning, China
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Gawade K, Raczynska KD. Imprinted small nucleolar RNAs: Missing link in development and disease? WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2023:e1818. [PMID: 37722601 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
The 14q32.2 (DLK1-DIO3) and 15q11-q13 (SNURF-SNRPN) imprinted gene loci harbor the largest known small nucleolar RNA clusters expressed from the respective maternal and paternal alleles. Recent studies have demonstrated significant roles for the 15q11-q13 located SNORD115-SNORD116 C/D box snoRNAs in Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS), a neurodevelopmental disorder. Even though the effect of SNORD116 deletion is apparent in the PWS phenotype, similar effects of a SNORD113-SNORD114 cluster deletion from the 14q32.2 locus in Kagami-Ogata syndrome (KOS14) and upregulation in Temple syndrome (TS14) remain to be explored. Moreover, apart from their probable involvement in neurodevelopmental disorders, snoRNAs from the SNORD113-SNORD114 cluster have been implicated in multiple biological processes, including pluripotency, development, cancers, and RNA modifications. Here we summarize the current understanding of the system to explore the possibility of a link between developmental disorders and C/D box snoRNA expression from the imprinted 14q32.2 locus. This article is categorized under: RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Development RNA Processing > Processing of Small RNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kishor Gawade
- Laboratory of RNA Processing, Department of Gene Expression, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan, Poznan, Poland
- Center for Advanced Technology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan, Poznan, Poland
| | - Katarzyna D Raczynska
- Laboratory of RNA Processing, Department of Gene Expression, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan, Poznan, Poland
- Center for Advanced Technology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan, Poznan, Poland
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16
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Wu YJ, Wang J, Zhang P, Yuan LX, Ju LL, Wang HX, Chen L, Cao YL, Cai WH, Ni Y, Li M. PIWIL1 interacting RNA piR-017724 inhibits proliferation, invasion, and migration, and inhibits the development of HCC by silencing PLIN3. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1203821. [PMID: 37503320 PMCID: PMC10369847 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1203821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for the majority of primary liver cancers. Worldwide, liver cancer is the fourth most common cause of cancer-related death. Recent studies have found that PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) participate in the occurrence and development of various tumors and are closely related to the growth, invasion, metastasis and prognosis of malignant tumors. Studies on the role and functional mechanism of piRNAs in HCC development and progression are limited. Methods Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) were used to detect the expression of piR-017724 in both HCC tissues and cells. Based on the clinical data of HCC patients, the clinical and prognostic value of piR-017724 was further analyzed. Then, targeted silencing and overexpressing of piR-017724 in HCC cells was further used to examine the biological functions of piR-017724. In addition, the downstream target protein of piR-017724 was predicted and validated through high-throughput sequencing and public databases. Results The piR-017724 was significantly downregulated in HCC tissues and cells, and the downregulation of piR-017724 was associated with tumor stage and poor prognosis in HCC. The piR-017724 inhibitor promoted the proliferation, migration and invasion of HCC cells, while the piR-017724 mimic had the opposite effect. However, the piR-017724 did not affect apoptosis of HCC cells. High-throughput sequencing and qRT-PCR confirmed a reciprocal relationship between piR-017724 and PLIN3. Therefore, we speculate that piR-017724 may inhibit the development and progression of HCC by affecting the downstream protein PLIN3. Conclusions Our study shows that piR-017724, which is lowly expressed in HCC, inhibits the proliferation, migration and invasion of HCC cells and may affect the development of hepatocellular liver cancer through PLIN3, which provides new insights into the clinical application of piR-017724 in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Jing Wu
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong Third People’s Hospital, Affiliated Nantong Hospital 3 of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong Third People’s Hospital, Affiliated Nantong Hospital 3 of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Nantong Institute of Liver Disease, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Nantong Third People’s Hospital, Affiliated Nantong Hospital 3 of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Liu-Xia Yuan
- Nantong Institute of Liver Disease, Nantong Third People’s Hospital, Affiliated Nantong Hospital 3 of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Lin-Ling Ju
- Nantong Institute of Liver Disease, Nantong Third People’s Hospital, Affiliated Nantong Hospital 3 of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Hui-Xuan Wang
- Nantong Institute of Liver Disease, Nantong Third People’s Hospital, Affiliated Nantong Hospital 3 of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Lin Chen
- Nantong Institute of Liver Disease, Nantong Third People’s Hospital, Affiliated Nantong Hospital 3 of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Ya-Li Cao
- Preventive Health Department, Nantong Third People’s Hospital, Affiliated Nantong Hospital 3 of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Wei-Hua Cai
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Nantong Third People’s Hospital, Affiliated Nantong Hospital 3 of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Yi Ni
- Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Nantong Third People’s Hospital, Affiliated Nantong Hospital 3 of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Min Li
- Integrating Traditional Chinese Medicine with Hepatology, Nantong Third People’s Hospital, Affiliated Nantong Hospital 3 of Nantong University, Nantong, China
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Sridharan B, Lim HG. Exosomes and ultrasound: The future of theranostic applications. Mater Today Bio 2023; 19:100556. [PMID: 36756211 PMCID: PMC9900624 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2023.100556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Biomaterials and pertaining formulations have been very successful in various diagnostic and therapeutic applications because of its ability to overcome pharmacological limitations. Some of them have gained significant focus in the recent decade for their theranostic properties. Exosomes can be grouped as biomaterials, since they consist of various biological micro/macromolecules and possess all the properties of a stable biomaterial with size in nano range. Significant research has gone into isolation and exploitation of exosomes as potential theranostic agent. However, the limitations in terms of yield, efficacy, and target specificity are continuously being addressed. On the other hand, several nano/microformulations are responsive to physical or chemical alterations and were successfully stimulated by tweaking the physical characteristics of the surrounding environment they are in. Some of them are termed as photodynamic, sonodynamic or thermodynamic therapeutic systems. In this regard, ultrasound and acoustic systems were extensively studied for its ability towards altering the properties of the systems to which they were applied on. In this review, we have detailed about the diagnostic and therapeutic applications of exosomes and ultrasound separately, consisting of their conventional applications, drawbacks, and developments for addressing the challenges. The information were categorized into various sections that provide complete overview of the isolation strategies and theranostic applications of exosomes in various diseases. Then the ultrasound-based disease diagnosis and therapy were elaborated, with special interest towards the use of ultrasound in enhancing the efficacy of nanomedicines and nanodrug delivery systems, Finally, we discussed about the ability of ultrasound in enhancing the diagnostic and therapeutic properties of exosomes, which could be the future of theranostics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hae Gyun Lim
- Corresponding author. Biomedical Ultrasound Lab, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea.
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Ray SK, Mukherjee S. Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) and Colorectal Carcinoma: Emerging Non-invasive diagnostic Biomarkers with Potential Therapeutic Target Based Clinical Implications. Curr Mol Med 2023; 23:300-311. [PMID: 35068393 DOI: 10.2174/1566524022666220124102616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) constitute new small non-coding RNA molecules of around 24-31 nucleotides in length, mostly performing regulatory roles for the piwi protein family members. In recent times, developing evidence proposes that piRNAs are expressed in a tissue-specific way in various human tissues and act as moderate vital signalling pathways at the transcriptional or post-transcriptional level in addition to mammalian germline. Recent findings, however, show that the unusual expression of piRNAs is an exclusive and discrete feature in several diseases, including many human cancers. Recently, considerable evidence indicates that piRNAs could be dysregulated thus playing critical roles in tumorigenesis. The function and underlying mechanisms of piRNAs in cancer, particularly in colorectal carcinoma, are not fully understood to date. Abnormal expression of piRNAs is emerging as a critical player in cancer cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and migration in vitro and in vivo. Functionally, piRNAs preserve genomic integrity and regulate the expression of downstream target genes through transcriptional or post-transcriptional mechanisms by repressing transposable elements' mobilization. However, little research has been done to check Piwi and piRNAs' potential role in cancer and preserve genome integrity by epigenetically silencing transposons via DNA methylation, especially in germline cancer stem cells. This review reveals emerging insights into piRNA functions in colorectal carcinoma, revealing novel findings behind various piRNA-mediated gene regulation mechanisms, biogenetic piRNA processes, and possible applications of piRNAs and piwi proteins in cancer diagnosis and their potential clinical significance in the treatment of colorectal carcinoma patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sukhes Mukherjee
- Associate Professor, Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh-462020, India
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AmeliMojarad M, Amelimojarad M. piRNAs and PIWI proteins as potential biomarkers in Breast cancer. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:9855-9862. [PMID: 35612777 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07506-x] [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: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND PIWI interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are another subgroup of small non-coding RNAs, that can play different biological activity further to their capabilities in the germline such as regulating the gene and protein expression, epigenetic silencing of transposable elements, and regulating the spermatogenesis by interacting with PIWI proteins. METHODS We search online academic data bases including (Google Scholar, Web of Science and Pub Med), the relevant literature was extracted from the databases by using search terms of piRNAs and breast cancer as free-text words and also with the combination with OR /AND by may 2022. RESULTS Recently, with the help of next-generation sequencing abnormal piRNA expression has been observed to associate with the occurrence and development of human cancers, such as breast cancer (BC). Recent investigation proposing piRNA as a prognostic and diagnostic biomarker based on their cancer-related interaction in the treatment of BC. CONCLUSION This review aims to focus on the role of piRNAs in the initiation, progression, and the occurrence of breast cancer in order to understand its function and provide a better therapeutic strategy.
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Chattopadhyay T, Biswal P, Lalruatfela A, Mallick B. Emerging roles of PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) and PIWI proteins in head and neck cancer and their potential clinical implications. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2022; 1877:188772. [PMID: 35931391 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2022.188772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) are among the well-known neoplasms originating in the oral cavity, pharynx, and larynx. Despite advancements in chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery, the survival rates of the patients are low, which has posed a major therapeutic challenge. A growing number of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), for instance, microRNAs, have been identified whose abnormal expression patterns have been implicated in HNSCC. However, more recently, several seminal research has shown that piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), a promising and young class of small ncRNA, are linked to the emergence and progression of cancer. They can regulate transposable elements (TE) and gene expression through multiple mechanisms, making them potentially more powerful regulators than miRNAs. Hence, they can be more promising ncRNAs candidates for cancer therapeutic intervention. Here, we surveyed the roles and clinical implications of piRNAs and their PIWI proteins partners in tumorigenesis and associated molecular processes of cancer, with a particular focus on HNSCC, to offer a new avenue for diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic interventions for the malignancy, improving patient's outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trisha Chattopadhyay
- RNAi and Functional Genomics Lab., Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela 769008, Odisha, India
| | - Priyajit Biswal
- RNAi and Functional Genomics Lab., Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela 769008, Odisha, India
| | - Anthony Lalruatfela
- RNAi and Functional Genomics Lab., Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela 769008, Odisha, India
| | - Bibekanand Mallick
- RNAi and Functional Genomics Lab., Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela 769008, Odisha, India.
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Zhang T, Chen L, Li R, Liu N, Huang X, Wong G. PIWI-interacting RNAs in human diseases: databases and computational models. Brief Bioinform 2022; 23:6603448. [PMID: 35667080 DOI: 10.1093/bib/bbac217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are short 21-35 nucleotide molecules that comprise the largest class of non-coding RNAs and found in a large diversity of species including yeast, worms, flies, plants and mammals including humans. The most well-understood function of piRNAs is to monitor and protect the genome from transposons particularly in germline cells. Recent data suggest that piRNAs may have additional functions in somatic cells although they are expressed there in far lower abundance. Compared with microRNAs (miRNAs), piRNAs have more limited bioinformatics resources available. This review collates 39 piRNA specific and non-specific databases and bioinformatics resources, describes and compares their utility and attributes and provides an overview of their place in the field. In addition, we review 33 computational models based upon function: piRNA prediction, transposon element and mRNA-related piRNA prediction, cluster prediction, signature detection, target prediction and disease association. Based on the collection of databases and computational models, we identify trends and potential gaps in tool development. We further analyze the breadth and depth of piRNA data available in public sources, their contribution to specific human diseases, particularly in cancer and neurodegenerative conditions, and highlight a few specific piRNAs that appear to be associated with these diseases. This briefing presents the most recent and comprehensive mapping of piRNA bioinformatics resources including databases, models and tools for disease associations to date. Such a mapping should facilitate and stimulate further research on piRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianjiao Zhang
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau S.A.R. 999078, China
| | - Liang Chen
- Department of Computer Science, School of Engineering, Shantou University, Shantou, China
| | - Rongzhen Li
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau S.A.R. 999078, China
| | - Ning Liu
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau S.A.R. 999078, China
| | - Xiaobing Huang
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau S.A.R. 999078, China
| | - Garry Wong
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau S.A.R. 999078, China
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22
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Shi SC, Zhang Y, Wang T. High RRM2 expression has poor prognosis in specific types of breast cancer. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0265195. [PMID: 35290409 PMCID: PMC8923511 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0265195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND RRM2 plays an important role in different malignant tumors, but there are few studies in breast cancer. Public databases were used to analyze the expression of RRM2 in breast cancer and its prognostic value. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 2,509 breast cancer samples were downloaded from the METABRIC database. The relationship between RRM2 expression and clinical pathology was evaluated. Using the BCIP database and real-time-PCR, and western blotting, RRM2 mRNA and protein expression of RRM2 in breast cancer tissues and cell lines were evaluated. Univariate and multivariate analysis defined independent prognostic factors that affected the overall survival of patients with breast cancer. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to study the relationship between the high expression of RRM2 and overall survival and distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS) of breast cancer patients. Finally, We performed Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) and obtained the relevant pathways associated with high expression of RRM2 potentially influencing breast cancer progression. RESULTS RRM2 expression was significantly correlated with age, tumor size, grade, menopausal status, molecular typing, ER, PR, and Her-2 of patients with breast cancer(P<0.05). Univariate and multivariate regression analysis showed that RRM2, the number of positive lymph nodes, ER, Her-2, tumor size, and tumor stage can be used as independent prognostic factors for overall survival of patients with breast cancer. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that in patients with Luminal A and Normal like breast cancers and Stage1 and stage2 breast cancers, patients with high expression of RRM2 had worse overall survival and DMFS. The analysis of the GSEA pathway showed that RRM2 is mainly enriched in the ERBB signaling pathway and other pathways. CONCLUSION The high expression of RRM2 has a worse prognosis in patients with breast cancer with specific features. It can be used as a biomarker for the prognosis of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shen-chao Shi
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Hubei No. 3 People’s Hospital of Jianghan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Hubei No. 3 People’s Hospital of Jianghan University, Wuhan, China
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23
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Doke M, Kashanchi F, Khan MA, Samikkannu T. HIV-1 Tat and cocaine coexposure impacts piRNAs to affect astrocyte energy metabolism. Epigenomics 2022; 14:261-278. [PMID: 35170353 PMCID: PMC8892230 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2021-0252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim: To understand the effect of HIV infection and cocaine exposure on piRNA expression in human primary astrocytes. Materials & methods: We used small RNA sequencing analysis to investigate the impacts of HIV-1 Tat and cocaine coexposure on the expression of piRNAs in human primary astrocytes. Results: We identified 27,700 piRNAs and analyzed them by small RNA next-generation sequencing. A total of 239 piRNAs were significantly altered by HIV-1 Tat and cocaine coexposure. We also identified PIWIL1, PIWIL2, PIWIL3 and PIWIL4 as interacting partners of piRNAs that were affected by cocaine and HIV-1 Tat coexposure. Epigenetic changes in the expression levels of these piRNA targets were associated with Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways of energy metabolism and neurodegeneration. Conclusion: These findings provide evidence that cocaine exposure and HIV infection affect the expression levels of piRNA, PIWIL1, PIWIL2, PIWIL3 and PIWIL4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayur Doke
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Kingsville, TX 78363, USA
| | - Fatah Kashanchi
- National Center for Biodefense & Infectious Disease, Laboratory of Molecular Virology, George Mason University, Manassas, VA 20110, USA
| | - Mansoor A Khan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Kingsville, TX 78363, USA
| | - Thangavel Samikkannu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Kingsville, TX 78363, USA,Author for correspondence: Tel.: +1 361 221 0750;
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24
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Xiao L, Wang J, Ju S, Cui M, Jing R. Disorders and roles of tsRNA, snoRNA, snRNA and piRNA in cancer. J Med Genet 2022; 59:623-631. [PMID: 35145038 DOI: 10.1136/jmedgenet-2021-108327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Most small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) with regulatory functions are encoded by majority sequences in the human genome, and the emergence of high-throughput sequencing technology has greatly expanded our understanding of sncRNAs. sncRNAs are composed of a variety of RNAs, including tRNA-derived small RNA (tsRNA), small nucleolar RNA (snoRNA), small nuclear RNA (snRNA), PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA), etc. While for some, sncRNAs' implication in several pathologies is now well established, the potential involvement of tsRNA, snoRNA, snRNA and piRNA in human diseases is only beginning to emerge. Recently, accumulating pieces of evidence demonstrate that tsRNA, snoRNA, snRNA and piRNA play an important role in many biological processes, and their dysregulation is closely related to the progression of cancer. Abnormal expression of tsRNA, snoRNA, snRNA and piRNA participates in the occurrence and development of tumours through different mechanisms, such as transcriptional inhibition and post-transcriptional regulation. In this review, we describe the research progress in the classification, biogenesis and biological function of tsRNA, snoRNA, snRNA and piRNA. Moreover, we emphasised their dysregulation and mechanism of action in cancer and discussed their potential as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers or therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Xiao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Department of Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shaoqing Ju
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ming Cui
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Rongrong Jing
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
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25
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Ghaseminezhad Z, Sharifi M, Bahreini A, Mehrzad V. Investigation of the expression of P-element-induced wimpy testis-interacting RNAs in human acute myeloid leukemia. Meta Gene 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mgene.2021.100998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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26
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Cai A, Hu Y, Zhou Z, Qi Q, Wu Y, Dong P, Chen L, Wang F. PIWI-Interacting RNAs (piRNAs): Promising Applications as Emerging Biomarkers for Digestive System Cancer. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:848105. [PMID: 35155584 PMCID: PMC8829394 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.848105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are a novel type of small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs), which are 26–31 nucleotides in length and bind to PIWI proteins. Although piRNAs were originally discovered in germline cells and are thought to be essential regulators for germline preservation, they can also influence gene expression in somatic cells. An increasing amount of data has shown that the dysregulation of piRNAs can both promote and repress the emergence and progression of human cancers through DNA methylation, transcriptional silencing, mRNA turnover, and translational control. Digestive cancers are currently a major cause of cancer deaths worldwide. piRNAs control the expression of essential genes and pathways associated with digestive cancer progression and have been reported as possible biomarkers for the diagnosis and treatment of digestive cancer. Here, we highlight recent advances in understanding the involvement of piRNAs, as well as potential diagnostic and therapeutic applications of piRNAs in various digestive cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiting Cai
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Yuhao Hu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Zhou Zhou
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Qianyi Qi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Yixuan Wu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Peixin Dong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hokkaido University School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
- *Correspondence: Peixin Dong, ; Lin Chen, ; Feng Wang,
| | - Lin Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Laboratory Medicine, Nantong Third Hospital Affiliated to Nantong University, Nantong, China
- *Correspondence: Peixin Dong, ; Lin Chen, ; Feng Wang,
| | - Feng Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- *Correspondence: Peixin Dong, ; Lin Chen, ; Feng Wang,
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27
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Hosseinalizadeh H, Mahmoodpour M, Ebrahimi A. Circulating non-coding RNAs as a diagnostic and management biomarker for breast cancer: current insights. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:705-715. [PMID: 34677714 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06847-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Cancer biomarkers can be used to determine the molecular status of a tumor or its metastases, which either release them directly into body fluids or indirectly through disruption of tumor/metastatic tissue. New minimally invasive and repeatable sample collection methods, such as liquid biopsy, have been developed in the last decade to apply cancer knowledge and track its progression. Circulating non-coding RNAs, which include microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and PIWI-interacting RNAs, are increasingly being recognized as potential cancer biomarkers. The growing understanding of cancer's molecular pathogenesis, combined with the rapid development of new molecular techniques, encourages the study of early molecular alterations associated with cancer development in body fluids. Specific genetic and epigenetic changes in circulating free RNA (cf-RNA) in plasma, serum, and urine could be used as diagnostic biomarkers for a variety of cancers. Only a subset of these cf-RNAs have been studied in breast cancer, with the most extensive research focusing on cf-miRNA in plasma. These findings pave the way for immediate use of selected cf-RNAs as biomarkers in breast cancer liquid biopsy, as well as additional research into other cf-RNAs to advance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Hosseinalizadeh
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Paramedicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, 41376, Rasht, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Mahmoodpour
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Paramedicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, 41376, Rasht, Iran
| | - Ammar Ebrahimi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Lausanne, Rue Du Bugnon 7, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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28
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Mokarram P, Niknam M, Sadeghdoust M, Aligolighasemabadi F, Siri M, Dastghaib S, Brim H, Ashktorab H. PIWI interacting RNAs perspectives: a new avenues in future cancer investigations. Bioengineered 2021; 12:10401-10419. [PMID: 34723746 PMCID: PMC8809986 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2021.1997078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
As a currently identified small non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) category, the PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are crucial mediators of cell biology. The human genome comprises over 30.000 piRNA genes. Although considered a new field in cancer research, the piRNA pathway is shown by the existing evidence as an active pathway in a variety of different types of cancers with critical impacts on main aspects of cancer progression. Among the regulatory molecules that contribute to maintaining the dynamics of cancer cells, the P-element Induced WImpy testis (PIWI) proteins and piRNAs, as new players, have not been broadly studied so far. Therefore, the identification of cancer-related piRNAs and the assessment of target genes of piRNAs may lead to better cancer prevention and therapy strategies. This review articleaimed to highlight the role and function of piRNAs based on existing data. Understanding the role of piRNA in cancer may provide perspectives on their applications as particular biomarker signature in diagnosis in early stage, prognosis and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooneh Mokarram
- Autophagy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran,Department of Biochemistry, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran,CONTACT Pooneh Mokarram Department of Biochemistry, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Maryam Niknam
- Department of Biochemistry, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammadamin Sadeghdoust
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mashhad Medical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Farnaz Aligolighasemabadi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mashhad Medical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Morvarid Siri
- Autophagy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sanaz Dastghaib
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hassan Brim
- Pathology and Cancer Center, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Hassan Ashktorab
- Department of Medicine, Gastroenterology Division and Cancer Center, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, Dc, USA
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29
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Rood K, Begum K, Wang H, Wangworawat YC, Davis R, Yamauchi CR, Perez MC, Simental AA, Laxa RT, Wang C, Roy S, Khan S. Differential Expression of Non-Coding RNA Signatures in Thyroid Cancer between Two Ethnic Groups. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 28:3610-3628. [PMID: 34590612 PMCID: PMC8482137 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol28050309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Filipino Americans show higher thyroid cancer recurrence rates compared to European Americans. Although they are likely to die of this malignancy, the molecular mechanism has not yet been determined. Recent studies demonstrated that small non-coding RNAs could be utilized to assess thyroid cancer prognosis in tumor models. The goal of this study is to determine whether microRNA (miRNA) signatures are differentially expressed in thyroid cancer in two different ethnic groups. We also determined whether these miRNA signatures are related to cancer staging. This is a retrospective study of archival samples from patients with thyroid cancer (both sexes) in the pathology division from the last ten years at Loma Linda University School of Medicine, California. Deidentified patient demographics were extracted from the patient chart. Discarded formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues were collected post-surgeries. We determined the differential expressions of microRNA in archival samples from Filipino Americans compared to European Americans using the state-of-the-art technique, HiSeq4000. By ingenuity pathway analysis, we determined miRNA targets and the pathways that those targets are involved in. We validated their expressions by real-time quantitative PCR and correlated them with the clinicopathological status in a larger cohort of miRNA samples from both ethnicities. We identified the differentially upregulated/downregulated miRNA clusters in Filipino Americans compared to European Americans. Some of these miRNA clusters are known to target genes that are linked to cancer invasion and metastasis. In univariate analysis, ethnicity and tumor staging were significant factors predicting miR-4633-5p upregulation. When including these factors in a multivariate logistic regression model, ethnicity and tumor staging remained significant independent predictors of miRNA upregulation, whereas the interaction of ethnicity and tumor staging was not significant. In contrast, ethnicity remained an independent predictor of significantly downregulated miR-491-5p and let-7 family. We provide evidence that Filipino Americans showed differentially expressed tumor-tissue-derived microRNA clusters. The functional implications of these miRNAs are under investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristiana Rood
- Division of Biochemistry, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA; (K.R.); (H.W.); (R.D.); (C.R.Y.); (R.T.L.)
- Center for Health Disparities & Molecular Medicine, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA
| | - Khodeza Begum
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA;
- Border Biomedical Research Center, University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
| | - Hanmin Wang
- Division of Biochemistry, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA; (K.R.); (H.W.); (R.D.); (C.R.Y.); (R.T.L.)
| | - Yan C. Wangworawat
- Department of Pathology & Human Anatomy, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA; (Y.C.W.); (M.C.P.)
| | - Ryan Davis
- Division of Biochemistry, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA; (K.R.); (H.W.); (R.D.); (C.R.Y.); (R.T.L.)
- Division of Otolaryngology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA;
| | - Celina R. Yamauchi
- Division of Biochemistry, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA; (K.R.); (H.W.); (R.D.); (C.R.Y.); (R.T.L.)
- Division of Otolaryngology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA;
| | - Mia C. Perez
- Department of Pathology & Human Anatomy, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA; (Y.C.W.); (M.C.P.)
- Division of Otolaryngology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA;
| | - Alfred A. Simental
- Division of Otolaryngology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA;
| | - Ria T. Laxa
- Division of Biochemistry, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA; (K.R.); (H.W.); (R.D.); (C.R.Y.); (R.T.L.)
- Division of Otolaryngology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA;
| | - Charles Wang
- Center for Genomics, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA;
| | - Sourav Roy
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA;
- Border Biomedical Research Center, University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
- Correspondence: (S.R.); (S.K.)
| | - Salma Khan
- Division of Biochemistry, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA; (K.R.); (H.W.); (R.D.); (C.R.Y.); (R.T.L.)
- Center for Health Disparities & Molecular Medicine, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA
- Division of Otolaryngology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA;
- Department of Internal Medicine, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA
- Correspondence: (S.R.); (S.K.)
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30
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Bartos M, Siegl F, Kopkova A, Radova L, Oppelt J, Vecera M, Kazda T, Jancalek R, Hendrych M, Hermanova M, Kasparova P, Pleskacova Z, Vybihal V, Fadrus P, Smrcka M, Lakomy R, Lipina R, Cesak T, Slaby O, Sana J. Small RNA Sequencing Identifies PIWI-Interacting RNAs Deregulated in Glioblastoma-piR-9491 and piR-12488 Reduce Tumor Cell Colonies In Vitro. Front Oncol 2021; 11:707017. [PMID: 34485142 PMCID: PMC8415021 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.707017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most frequently occurring primary malignant brain tumor of astrocytic origin. To change poor prognosis, it is necessary to deeply understand the molecular mechanisms of gliomagenesis and identify new potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets. PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) help in maintaining genome stability, and their deregulation has already been observed in many tumors. Recent studies suggest that these molecules could also play an important role in the glioma biology. To determine GBM-associated piRNAs, we performed small RNA sequencing analysis in the discovery set of 19 GBM and 11 non-tumor brain samples followed by TaqMan qRT-PCR analyses in the independent set of 77 GBM and 23 non-tumor patients. Obtained data were subsequently bioinformatically analyzed. Small RNA sequencing revealed 58 significantly deregulated piRNA molecules in GBM samples in comparison with non-tumor brain tissues. Deregulation of piR-1849, piR-9491, piR-12487, and piR-12488 was successfully confirmed in the independent groups of patients and controls (all p < 0.0001), and piR-9491 and piR-12488 reduced GBM cells’ ability to form colonies in vitro. In addition, piR-23231 was significantly associated with the overall survival of the GBM patients treated with Stupp regimen (p = 0.007). Our results suggest that piRNAs could be a novel promising diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in GBM potentially playing important roles in gliomagenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Bartos
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czechia
| | - Frantisek Siegl
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Alena Kopkova
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Lenka Radova
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Jan Oppelt
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Marek Vecera
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Tomas Kazda
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute and Medical Faculty, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Radim Jancalek
- Department of Neurosurgery, St. Anne's University Hospital and Medical Faculty, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Michal Hendrych
- 1st Department of Pathology, St. Anne's University Hospital and Medical Faculty, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Marketa Hermanova
- 1st Department of Pathology, St. Anne's University Hospital and Medical Faculty, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Petra Kasparova
- The Fingerland Department of Pathology, University Hospital Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czechia
| | - Zuzana Pleskacova
- Department of Oncology and Radiotherapy, University Hospital Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czechia
| | - Vaclav Vybihal
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czechia
| | - Pavel Fadrus
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czechia
| | - Martin Smrcka
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czechia
| | - Radek Lakomy
- Department of Comprehensive Cancer Care, Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute, Brno, Czechia
| | - Radim Lipina
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
| | - Tomas Cesak
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czechia
| | - Ondrej Slaby
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia.,Department of Comprehensive Cancer Care, Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute, Brno, Czechia.,Department of Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Jiri Sana
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia.,Department of Comprehensive Cancer Care, Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute, Brno, Czechia.,Department of Pathology, University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czechia
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31
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Su JF, Concilla A, Zhang DZ, Zhao F, Shen FF, Zhang H, Zhou FY. PIWI-interacting RNAs: Mitochondria-based biogenesis and functions in cancer. Genes Dis 2021; 8:603-622. [PMID: 34291132 PMCID: PMC8278532 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2020.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNAs), once thought to be mainly functioning in germlines, are now known to play an essential role in somatic and cancerous tissues. Ping-pong cycle initiation and mitochondria-based phased production constitute the core of the piRNA biogenesis and these two processes are well conserved in mammals, including humans. By being involved in DNA methylation, histone marker deposition, mRNA degradation, and protein modification, piRNAs also contribute to carcinogenesis partly due to oncogenic stress-induced piRNA dysregulation. Also, piRNAs play important roles in cancer stemness, drug resistance, and tumor immunology. Results from liquid biopsy analysis of piRNA can be used in both cancer diagnoses and cancer prognoses. A combination of targeting piRNA with other therapeutic strategies could be groundbreaking cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Fen Su
- Anyang Key Laboratory for Esophageal Cancer Research, Anyang Cancer Hospital, The Forth Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Science and Technology, Anyang, Henan Province, 455000, PR China
| | - Anthony Concilla
- Department of Bio-Medical Sciences, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19131, USA
| | - Dian-zheng Zhang
- Department of Bio-Medical Sciences, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19131, USA
| | - Fang Zhao
- Anyang Key Laboratory for Esophageal Cancer Research, Anyang Cancer Hospital, The Forth Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Science and Technology, Anyang, Henan Province, 455000, PR China
| | - Fang-Fang Shen
- Key Laboratory for Tumor Translational Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan Province, 453000, PR China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Institute of Precision Cancer Medicine and Pathology, Jinan University Medical College, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510630, PR China
| | - Fu-You Zhou
- Anyang Key Laboratory for Esophageal Cancer Research, Anyang Cancer Hospital, The Forth Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Science and Technology, Anyang, Henan Province, 455000, PR China
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32
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Yuan C, Qin H, Ponnusamy M, Chen Y, Lin Z. PIWI‑interacting RNA in cancer: Molecular mechanisms and possible clinical implications (Review). Oncol Rep 2021; 46:209. [PMID: 34328192 DOI: 10.3892/or.2021.8160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
PIWI‑interacting RNA is a class of non‑coding small RNA that is ~30 nt long and is primarily found in mammalian germ cells from mice and humans. In cooperation with the members of PIWI protein family, this macromolecule participates in germ cell development, inhibits DNA self‑-replication and maintains genomic stability. Increasing evidence has demonstrated that PIWI‑interacting RNA (piRNAs) are abnormally expressed in various human cancers, such as liver cancer, stomach cancer, colorectal cancer, osteosarcoma, breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, etc. piRNAs abnormal expression is also associated with the occurrence and development of human cancers, such as liver cancer, stomach cancer, colorectal cancer, etc. Despite their unclear molecular mechanisms, piRNAs may act as oncogenes or tumor suppressors by interacting with multiple cancer‑related signal pathways including STAT3/Bcl‑xl or coding genes, such as heat shock transcription factor‑1. Hence, piRNAs may be potential markers and targets and provide new opportunities for cancer diagnosis, treatment or prognosis monitoring. The current review mainly aims to highlight the latest research progress made in the biological functions and regulation of piRNAs in mammals, their involvement in various cancer forms and their potential clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Yuan
- Department of Basic Medicine, Key Lab for Immunology in Universities of Shandong Province, Immunology Lab, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261053, P.R. China
| | - Hao Qin
- Department of Public Health, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261053, P.R. China
| | - Murugavel Ponnusamy
- Department of Basic Medicine, Institute for Translational Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266021, P.R. China
| | - Yong Chen
- Department of Basic Medicine, Key Lab for Immunology in Universities of Shandong Province, Immunology Lab, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261053, P.R. China
| | - Zhijuan Lin
- Department of Basic Medicine, Key Lab for Immunology in Universities of Shandong Province, Immunology Lab, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261053, P.R. China
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33
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Qian L, Xie H, Zhang L, Zhao Q, Lü J, Yu Z. Piwi-Interacting RNAs: A New Class of Regulator in Human Breast Cancer. Front Oncol 2021; 11:695077. [PMID: 34295823 PMCID: PMC8290475 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.695077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
P-element-induced wimpy testis (Piwi)-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are a class of germline-enriched small non-coding RNA that associate with Piwi family proteins and mostly induce transposon silencing and epigenetic regulation. Emerging evidence indicated the aberrant expression of Piwil proteins and associated piRNAs in multiple types of human cancer including breast cancer. Although the majority of piRNAs in breast cancer remains unclear of the function mainly due to the variety of regulatory mechanisms, the potential of piRNAs serving as biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and prognosis or therapeutic targets for cancer treatment has been demonstrated by in vitro and in vivo studies. Herein we summarized the research progress of oncogenic or tumor suppressing piRNAs and their regulatory mechanisms in regulating human breast cancer, including piR-021285, piR-823, piR-932, piR-36712, piR-016658, piR-016975 and piR-4987. The challenges and perspectives of piRNAs in the field of human cancer were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Qian
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Jinzhou Medical University, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jinzhou, China
| | - Heying Xie
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Jinzhou Medical University, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jinzhou, China
| | - Libo Zhang
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qian Zhao
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinhui Lü
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zuoren Yu
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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34
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Sadoughi F, Mirhashemi SM, Asemi Z. Epigenetic roles of PIWI proteins and piRNAs in colorectal cancer. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:328. [PMID: 34193172 PMCID: PMC8243752 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-02034-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Small non‐coding RNAs (sncRNAs) are a subgroup of non‐coding RNAs, with less than 200 nucleotides length and no potential for coding proteins. PiRNAs, a member of sncRNAs, were first discovered more than a decade ago and have attracted researcher’s attention because of their gene regulatory function both in the nucleus and in the cytoplasm. Recent investigations have found that the abnormal expression of these sncRNAs is involved in many human diseases, including cancers. Colorectal cancer (CRC), as a common gastrointestinal malignancy, is one of the important causes of cancer‐related deaths through the entire world and appears to be a consequence of mutation in the genome and epigenetic alterations. The aim of this review is to realize whether there is a relationship between CRC and piRNAs or not.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Sadoughi
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, I.R. of Iran
| | - Seyyed Mehdi Mirhashemi
- Metabolic Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran.
| | - Zatollah Asemi
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, I.R. of Iran.
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Chen S, Ben S, Xin J, Li S, Zheng R, Wang H, Fan L, Du M, Zhang Z, Wang M. The biogenesis and biological function of PIWI-interacting RNA in cancer. J Hematol Oncol 2021; 14:93. [PMID: 34118972 PMCID: PMC8199808 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-021-01104-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Small non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are vital regulators of biological activities, and aberrant levels of small ncRNAs are commonly found in precancerous lesions and cancer. PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are a novel type of small ncRNA initially discovered in germ cells that have a specific length (24-31 nucleotides), bind to PIWI proteins, and show 2'-O-methyl modification at the 3'-end. Numerous studies have revealed that piRNAs can play important roles in tumorigenesis via multiple biological regulatory mechanisms, including silencing transcriptional and posttranscriptional gene processes and accelerating multiprotein interactions. piRNAs are emerging players in the malignant transformation of normal cells and participate in the regulation of cancer hallmarks. Most of the specific cancer hallmarks regulated by piRNAs are involved in sustaining proliferative signaling, resistance to cell death or apoptosis, and activation of invasion and metastasis. Additionally, piRNAs have been used as biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and prognosis and have great potential for clinical utility. However, research on the underlying mechanisms of piRNAs in cancer is limited. Here, we systematically reviewed recent advances in the biogenesis and biological functions of piRNAs and relevant bioinformatics databases with the aim of providing insights into cancer diagnosis and clinical applications. We also focused on some cancer hallmarks rarely reported to be related to piRNAs, which can promote in-depth research of piRNAs in molecular biology and facilitate their clinical translation into cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silu Chen
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.,Department of Environmental Genomics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Genetic Toxicology, The Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shuai Ben
- Department of Environmental Genomics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Genetic Toxicology, The Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Junyi Xin
- Department of Environmental Genomics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Genetic Toxicology, The Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shuwei Li
- Department of Environmental Genomics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Genetic Toxicology, The Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Rui Zheng
- Department of Environmental Genomics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Genetic Toxicology, The Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Environmental Genomics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Genetic Toxicology, The Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lulu Fan
- Department of Environmental Genomics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Genetic Toxicology, The Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mulong Du
- Department of Genetic Toxicology, The Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Biostatistics, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhengdong Zhang
- Department of Environmental Genomics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Genetic Toxicology, The Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Meilin Wang
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China. .,Department of Environmental Genomics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China. .,Department of Genetic Toxicology, The Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China. .,Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
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36
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Zivarpour P, Asemi Z, Jamilian H, Hallajzadeh J. PiRNAs and PIWI proteins as new biomarkers for diagnosis and treatment of liver cancer. GENE REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.genrep.2021.101103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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37
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Kärkkäinen E, Heikkinen S, Tengström M, Kosma VM, Mannermaa A, Hartikainen JM. The debatable presence of PIWI-interacting RNAs in invasive breast cancer. Cancer Med 2021; 10:3593-3603. [PMID: 33960684 PMCID: PMC8178507 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.3915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous factors influence breast cancer (BC) prognosis, thus complicating the prediction of outcome. By identifying biomarkers that would distinguish the cases with poorer response to therapy already at the time of diagnosis, the rate of survival could be improved. Lately, Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) have been introduced as potential cancer biomarkers, however, due to the recently raised challenges in piRNA annotations, further evaluation of piRNAs' involvement in cancer is required. We performed small RNA sequencing in 227 fresh-frozen breast tissue samples from the Eastern Finnish Kuopio Breast Cancer Project material to study the presence of piRNAs in BC and their associations with the clinicopathological features and outcome of BC patients. We observed the presence of three small RNAs annotated as piRNA database entries (DQ596932, DQ570994, and DQ571955) in our samples. The actual species of these RNAs however remain uncertain. All three small RNAs were upregulated in grade III tumors and DQ596932 additionally in estrogen receptor negative tumors. Furthermore, patients with estrogen receptor positive BC and higher DQ571955 had shorter relapse-free survival and poorer BC-specific survival, thus indicating DQ571955 as a candidate predictive marker for radiotherapy response in estrogen receptor positive BC. DQ596932 showed possible prognostic value in BC, whereas DQ570994 was identified as a candidate predictive marker for tamoxifen and chemotherapy response. These three small RNAs appear as candidate biomarkers for BC, which could after further investigation provide novel approaches for the treatment of therapy resistant BC. Overall, our results indicate that the prevalence of piRNAs in cancer is most likely not as comprehensive as has been previously thought.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmi Kärkkäinen
- School of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Pathology and Forensic Medicine, and Translational Cancer Research Area, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Sami Heikkinen
- School of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.,School of Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Maria Tengström
- School of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Oncology, and Cancer Center of Eastern Finland, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.,Cancer Center, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Veli-Matti Kosma
- School of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Pathology and Forensic Medicine, and Translational Cancer Research Area, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.,Department of Clinical Pathology, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Arto Mannermaa
- School of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Pathology and Forensic Medicine, and Translational Cancer Research Area, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.,Department of Clinical Pathology, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jaana M Hartikainen
- School of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Pathology and Forensic Medicine, and Translational Cancer Research Area, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
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38
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Wang K, Wang T, Gao XQ, Chen XZ, Wang F, Zhou LY. Emerging functions of piwi-interacting RNAs in diseases. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:4893-4901. [PMID: 33942984 PMCID: PMC8178273 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PIWI‐interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are recently discovered small non‐coding RNAs consisting of 24‐35 nucleotides, usually including a characteristic 5‐terminal uridine and an adenosine at position 10. PIWI proteins can specifically bind to the unique structure of the 3′ end of piRNAs. In the past, it was thought that piRNAs existed only in the reproductive system, but recently, it was reported that piRNAs are also expressed in several other human tissues with tissue specificity. Growing evidence shows that piRNAs and PIWI proteins are abnormally expressed in various diseases, including cancers, neurodegenerative diseases and ageing, and may be potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets. This review aims to discuss the current research status regarding piRNA biogenetic processes, functions, mechanisms and emerging roles in various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Wang
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiang-Qian Gao
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xin-Zhe Chen
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Lu-Yu Zhou
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
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39
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Perocheau D, Touramanidou L, Gurung S, Gissen P, Baruteau J. Clinical applications for exosomes: Are we there yet? Br J Pharmacol 2021; 178:2375-2392. [PMID: 33751579 PMCID: PMC8432553 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Exosomes are a subset of extracellular vesicles essential for cell-cell communication in health and disease with the ability to transport nucleic acids, functional proteins and other metabolites. Their clinical use as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic carriers has become a major field of research over recent years, generating rapidly expanding scientific interest and financial investment. Their reduced immunogenicity compared to liposomes or viral vectors and their ability to cross major physiological barriers like the blood-brain barrier make them an appealing and innovative option as biomarkers and therapeutic agents. Here, we review the latest clinical developments of exosome biotechnology for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, including the most recent COVID-19-related exosome-based clinical trials. We present current exosome engineering strategies for optimal clinical safety and efficacy, and assess the technology developed for good manufacturing practice compliant scaling up and storage approaches along with their limitations in pharmaceutical industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dany Perocheau
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Loukia Touramanidou
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sonam Gurung
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Paul Gissen
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK.,Metabolic Medicine Department, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Julien Baruteau
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK.,Metabolic Medicine Department, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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40
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Breast Cancer and the Other Non-Coding RNAs. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22063280. [PMID: 33807045 PMCID: PMC8005115 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22063280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is very heterogenous and the most common gynaecological cancer, with various factors affecting its development. While its impact on human lives and national health budgets is still rising in almost all global areas, many molecular mechanisms affecting its onset and development remain unclear. Conventional treatments still prove inadequate in some aspects, and appropriate molecular therapeutic targets are required for improved outcomes. Recent scientific interest has therefore focused on the non-coding RNAs roles in tumour development and their potential as therapeutic targets. These RNAs comprise the majority of the human transcript and their broad action mechanisms range from gene silencing to chromatin remodelling. Many non-coding RNAs also have altered expression in breast cancer cell lines and tissues, and this is often connected with increased proliferation, a degraded extracellular environment, and higher endothelial to mesenchymal transition. Herein, we summarise the known abnormalities in the function and expression of long non-coding RNAs, Piwi interacting RNAs, small nucleolar RNAs and small nuclear RNAs in breast cancer, and how these abnormalities affect the development of this deadly disease. Finally, the use of RNA interference to suppress breast cancer growth is summarised.
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41
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42
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piRNAs as Modulators of Disease Pathogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052373. [PMID: 33673453 PMCID: PMC7956838 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Advances in understanding disease pathogenesis correlates to modifications in gene expression within different tissues and organ systems. In depth knowledge about the dysregulation of gene expression profiles is fundamental to fully uncover mechanisms in disease development and changes in host homeostasis. The body of knowledge surrounding mammalian regulatory elements, specifically regulators of chromatin structure, transcriptional and translational activation, has considerably surged within the past decade. A set of key regulators whose function still needs to be fully elucidated are small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs). Due to their broad range of unfolding functions in the regulation of gene expression during transcription and translation, sncRNAs are becoming vital to many cellular processes. Within the past decade, a novel class of sncRNAs called PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) have been implicated in various diseases, and understanding their complete function is of vital importance. Historically, piRNAs have been shown to be indispensable in germline integrity and stem cell development. Accumulating research evidence continue to reveal the many arms of piRNA function. Although piRNA function and biogenesis has been extensively studied in Drosophila, it is thought that they play similar roles in vertebrate species, including humans. Compounding evidence suggests that piRNAs encompass a wider functional range than small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs), which have been studied more in terms of cellular homeostasis and disease. This review aims to summarize contemporary knowledge regarding biogenesis, and homeostatic function of piRNAs and their emerging roles in the development of pathologies related to cardiomyopathies, cancer, and infectious diseases.
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43
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Dong P, Xiong Y, Konno Y, Ihira K, Xu D, Kobayashi N, Yue J, Watari H. Critical Roles of PIWIL1 in Human Tumors: Expression, Functions, Mechanisms, and Potential Clinical Implications. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:656993. [PMID: 33718392 PMCID: PMC7952444 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.656993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
P-element-induced wimpy testis (PIWI)-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are a class of small non-coding RNA molecules that are 24-31 nucleotides in length. PiRNAs are thought to bind to PIWI proteins (PIWL1-4, a subfamily of Argonaute proteins), forming piRNA/PIWI complexes that influence gene expression at the transcriptional or post-transcriptional levels. However, it has been recently reported that the interaction of PIWI proteins with piRNAs does not encompass the entire function of PIWI proteins in human tumor cells. PIWIL1 (also called HIWI) is specifically expressed in the testis but not in other normal tissues. In tumor tissues, PIWIL1 is frequently overexpressed in tumor tissues compared with normal tissues. Its high expression is closely correlated with adverse clinicopathological features and shorter patient survival. Upregulation of PIWIL1 drastically induces tumor cell proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), invasion, cancer stem-like properties, tumorigenesis, metastasis and chemoresistance, probably via piRNA-independent mechanisms. In this article, we summarize the current existing literature on PIWIL1 in human tumors, including its expression, biological functions and regulatory mechanisms, providing new insights into how the dysregulation of PIWIL1 contributes to tumor initiation, development and chemoresistance through diverse signaling pathways. We also discuss the most recent findings on the potential clinical applications of PIWIL1 in cancer diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peixin Dong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hokkaido University School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Ying Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Department of Gynecology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yosuke Konno
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hokkaido University School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Kei Ihira
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hokkaido University School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Daozhi Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hokkaido University School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Noriko Kobayashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hokkaido University School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Junming Yue
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States
- Center for Cancer Research, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - Hidemichi Watari
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hokkaido University School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
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44
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López-Jiménez E, Andrés-León E. The Implications of ncRNAs in the Development of Human Diseases. Noncoding RNA 2021; 7:17. [PMID: 33668203 PMCID: PMC8006041 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna7010017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian genome comprehends a small minority of genes that encode for proteins (barely 2% of the total genome in humans) and an immense majority of genes that are transcribed into RNA but not encoded for proteins (ncRNAs). These non-coding genes are intimately related to the expression regulation of protein-coding genes. The ncRNAs subtypes differ in their size, so there are long non-coding genes (lncRNAs) and other smaller ones, like microRNAs (miRNAs) and piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs). Due to their important role in the maintenance of cellular functioning, any deregulation of the expression profiles of these ncRNAs can dissemble in the development of different types of diseases. Among them, we can highlight some of high incidence in the population, such as cancer, neurodegenerative, or cardiovascular disorders. In addition, thanks to the enormous advances in the field of medical genomics, these same ncRNAs are starting to be used as possible drugs, approved by the FDA, as an effective treatment for diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena López-Jiménez
- Centre for Haematology, Immunology and Inflammation Department, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - Eduardo Andrés-León
- Unidad de Bioinformática, Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina “López-Neyra”, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 18016 Granada, Spain
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Abstract
With the length of about 26-31 nt, PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA) is a small non-coding RNA (ncRNA) that interacts with PIWI proteins to form the piRNA silencing complex (piRISC). PIWI is a subfamily of Argonaute, and piRNA must bind to PIWI to exert its regulatory role. Current studies indicated that piRNA and PIWI are significantly abnormally expressed in gastric, breast, kidney, colon, and lung cancers, and are involved in the initiation, progression, and metastasis of cancers, which may be the potential diagnostic tools, prognostic markers, and therapeutic targets for cancers. By reviewing piRNA recent studies, this research summarized the mechanism of piRNA generation and the functions of piRNA/PIWI in gastric, breast, kidney, colon, and lung cancers, providing a reference value for further piRNA research.
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Salimimoghadam S, Taefehshokr S, Loveless R, Teng Y, Bertoli G, Taefehshokr N, Musaviaroo F, Hajiasgharzadeh K, Baradaran B. The role of tumor suppressor short non-coding RNAs on breast cancer. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2020; 158:103210. [PMID: 33385514 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2020.103210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Characterized by remarkable levels of aggression and malignancy, BC remains one of the leading causes of death in females world wide. Accordingly, significant efforts have been made to develop early diagnostic tools, increase treatment efficacy, and improve patient prognosis. Hopefully, many of the molecular mechanisms underlying BC have been detected and show promising targeting potential. In particular, short and long non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are a class of endogenous BC controllers and include a number of different species including microRNAs, Piwi-interacting RNAs, small nucleolar RNA, short interfering RNAs, and tRNA-derivatives. In this review, we discuss the tumor suppressing roles of ncRNAs in the context of BC, and the mechanisms by which ncRNAs target tumor hallmarks, including apoptosis, proliferation, invasion, metastasis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, and cell cycle progression, in addition to their diagnostic and prognostic significance in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sina Taefehshokr
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Reid Loveless
- Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA; Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA.
| | - Yong Teng
- Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA; Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA.
| | - Gloria Bertoli
- Institute of Molecular Bioimaging and Physiology, National Research Council (IBFM-CNR), Segrate, Milan, Italy.
| | - Nima Taefehshokr
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Center for Human Immunology, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.
| | | | | | - Behzad Baradaran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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Vinasco-Sandoval T, Moreira FC, F. Vidal A, Pinto P, Ribeiro-dos-Santos AM, Cruz RLS, Fonseca Cabral G, Anaissi AKM, Lopes KDP, Ribeiro-dos-Santos A, Demachki S, de Assumpção PP, Ribeiro-dos-Santos Â, Santos S. Global Analyses of Expressed Piwi-Interacting RNAs in Gastric Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E7656. [PMID: 33081152 PMCID: PMC7593925 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21207656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) represents a notable amount of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Understanding the molecular basis of CG will offer insight into its pathogenesis in an attempt to identify new molecular biomarkers to early diagnose this disease. Therefore, studies involving small non-coding RNAs have been widely explored. Among these, PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are an emergent class that can play important roles in carcinogenesis. In this study, small-RNA sequencing was used to identify the global piRNAs expression profile (piRNome) of gastric cancer patients. We found 698 piRNAs in gastric tissues, 14 of which were differentially expressed (DE) between gastric cancer (GC), adjacent to gastric cancer (ADJ), and non-cancer tissues (NC). Moreover, three of these DE piRNAs (piR-48966*, piR-49145, piR-31335*) were differently expressed in both GC and ADJ samples in comparison to NC samples, indicating that the tumor-adjacent tissue was molecularly altered and should not be considered as a normal control. These three piRNAs are potential risk biomarkers for GC, especially piR-48966* and piR-31335*. Furthermore, an in-silico search for mRNAs targeted by the differentially expressed piRNAs revealed that these piRNAs may regulate genes that participate in cancer-related pathways, suggesting that these small non-coding RNAs may be directly and indirectly involved in gastric carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Vinasco-Sandoval
- Graduate Program in Genetics and Molecular Biology, Laboratory of Human and Medical Genetics, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará 66075-110, Brazil; (T.V.-S.); (F.C.M.); (A.F.V.); (P.P.); (A.M.R.-d.-S.); (R.L.S.C.); (G.F.C.); (K.d.P.L.); (A.R.-d.-S.); (Â.R.-d.-S.)
| | - Fabiano Cordeiro Moreira
- Graduate Program in Genetics and Molecular Biology, Laboratory of Human and Medical Genetics, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará 66075-110, Brazil; (T.V.-S.); (F.C.M.); (A.F.V.); (P.P.); (A.M.R.-d.-S.); (R.L.S.C.); (G.F.C.); (K.d.P.L.); (A.R.-d.-S.); (Â.R.-d.-S.)
- Graduate Program in Oncology and Medical Sciences, Center of Oncology Research, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará 66063-023, Brazil; (A.K.M.A.); (S.D.); (P.P.d.A.)
| | - Amanda F. Vidal
- Graduate Program in Genetics and Molecular Biology, Laboratory of Human and Medical Genetics, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará 66075-110, Brazil; (T.V.-S.); (F.C.M.); (A.F.V.); (P.P.); (A.M.R.-d.-S.); (R.L.S.C.); (G.F.C.); (K.d.P.L.); (A.R.-d.-S.); (Â.R.-d.-S.)
| | - Pablo Pinto
- Graduate Program in Genetics and Molecular Biology, Laboratory of Human and Medical Genetics, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará 66075-110, Brazil; (T.V.-S.); (F.C.M.); (A.F.V.); (P.P.); (A.M.R.-d.-S.); (R.L.S.C.); (G.F.C.); (K.d.P.L.); (A.R.-d.-S.); (Â.R.-d.-S.)
- Graduate Program in Oncology and Medical Sciences, Center of Oncology Research, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará 66063-023, Brazil; (A.K.M.A.); (S.D.); (P.P.d.A.)
| | - André M. Ribeiro-dos-Santos
- Graduate Program in Genetics and Molecular Biology, Laboratory of Human and Medical Genetics, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará 66075-110, Brazil; (T.V.-S.); (F.C.M.); (A.F.V.); (P.P.); (A.M.R.-d.-S.); (R.L.S.C.); (G.F.C.); (K.d.P.L.); (A.R.-d.-S.); (Â.R.-d.-S.)
| | - Rebecca L. S. Cruz
- Graduate Program in Genetics and Molecular Biology, Laboratory of Human and Medical Genetics, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará 66075-110, Brazil; (T.V.-S.); (F.C.M.); (A.F.V.); (P.P.); (A.M.R.-d.-S.); (R.L.S.C.); (G.F.C.); (K.d.P.L.); (A.R.-d.-S.); (Â.R.-d.-S.)
| | - Gleyce Fonseca Cabral
- Graduate Program in Genetics and Molecular Biology, Laboratory of Human and Medical Genetics, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará 66075-110, Brazil; (T.V.-S.); (F.C.M.); (A.F.V.); (P.P.); (A.M.R.-d.-S.); (R.L.S.C.); (G.F.C.); (K.d.P.L.); (A.R.-d.-S.); (Â.R.-d.-S.)
| | - Ana K. M. Anaissi
- Graduate Program in Oncology and Medical Sciences, Center of Oncology Research, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará 66063-023, Brazil; (A.K.M.A.); (S.D.); (P.P.d.A.)
| | - Katia de Paiva Lopes
- Graduate Program in Genetics and Molecular Biology, Laboratory of Human and Medical Genetics, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará 66075-110, Brazil; (T.V.-S.); (F.C.M.); (A.F.V.); (P.P.); (A.M.R.-d.-S.); (R.L.S.C.); (G.F.C.); (K.d.P.L.); (A.R.-d.-S.); (Â.R.-d.-S.)
| | - Arthur Ribeiro-dos-Santos
- Graduate Program in Genetics and Molecular Biology, Laboratory of Human and Medical Genetics, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará 66075-110, Brazil; (T.V.-S.); (F.C.M.); (A.F.V.); (P.P.); (A.M.R.-d.-S.); (R.L.S.C.); (G.F.C.); (K.d.P.L.); (A.R.-d.-S.); (Â.R.-d.-S.)
| | - Samia Demachki
- Graduate Program in Oncology and Medical Sciences, Center of Oncology Research, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará 66063-023, Brazil; (A.K.M.A.); (S.D.); (P.P.d.A.)
| | - Paulo Pimentel de Assumpção
- Graduate Program in Oncology and Medical Sciences, Center of Oncology Research, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará 66063-023, Brazil; (A.K.M.A.); (S.D.); (P.P.d.A.)
| | - Ândrea Ribeiro-dos-Santos
- Graduate Program in Genetics and Molecular Biology, Laboratory of Human and Medical Genetics, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará 66075-110, Brazil; (T.V.-S.); (F.C.M.); (A.F.V.); (P.P.); (A.M.R.-d.-S.); (R.L.S.C.); (G.F.C.); (K.d.P.L.); (A.R.-d.-S.); (Â.R.-d.-S.)
- Graduate Program in Oncology and Medical Sciences, Center of Oncology Research, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará 66063-023, Brazil; (A.K.M.A.); (S.D.); (P.P.d.A.)
| | - Sidney Santos
- Graduate Program in Genetics and Molecular Biology, Laboratory of Human and Medical Genetics, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará 66075-110, Brazil; (T.V.-S.); (F.C.M.); (A.F.V.); (P.P.); (A.M.R.-d.-S.); (R.L.S.C.); (G.F.C.); (K.d.P.L.); (A.R.-d.-S.); (Â.R.-d.-S.)
- Graduate Program in Oncology and Medical Sciences, Center of Oncology Research, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará 66063-023, Brazil; (A.K.M.A.); (S.D.); (P.P.d.A.)
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Erber R, Meyer J, Taubert H, Fasching PA, Wach S, Häberle L, Gaß P, Schulz-Wendtland R, Landgraf L, Olbricht S, Jung R, Beckmann MW, Hartmann A, Ruebner M. PIWI-Like 1 and PIWI-Like 2 Expression in Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12102742. [PMID: 32987715 PMCID: PMC7598687 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12102742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 09/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary A family of proteins, the PIWI proteins, play a crucial role in the regulation of the development of germ cells and self-preservation of so-called stem cells. Former studies have shown that these proteins can be over- or underrepresented (over-/underexpressed) in some cancers and, in the case of abnormal expression, may be correlated with worse outcomes of tumor patients. In our study, we investigated the influence of the two PIWI proteins, PIWI-like 1 and PIWI-like 2, on the survival of breast cancer patients and their correlation with certain breast cancer subtypes. If a breast cancer showed a higher expression of PIWI-like 1 protein but less PIWI-like 2 protein than in non-tumorous tissue, the patient suffered from a more aggressive breast cancer subtype and had shorter survival. By analyzing these two proteins in breast cancer, we were able to predict tumor aggressiveness and prognosis. Abstract PIWI-like 1 and PIWI-like 2 play a role in stem cell self-renewal, and enhanced expression has been reported for several tumor entities. However, few studies have investigated PIWI-like 1 and PIWI-like 2 expressions in breast cancer subtypes regarding prognosis. Therefore, we examined protein expression in a large consecutive cohort of breast cancer patients and correlated it to breast cancer subtypes and survival outcome. PIWI-like 1 and PIWI-like 2 expressions were evaluated using immunohistochemistry in a cohort of 894 breast cancer patients, of whom 363 were eligible for further analysis. Percentage and intensity of stained tumor cells were analyzed and an immunoreactive score (IRS) was calculated. The interaction of PIWI-like 1 and PIWI-like 2 showed a prognostic effect on survival. For the combination of high PIWI-like 1 and low PIWI-like 2 expressions, adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) were significantly higher with regard to overall survival (OS) (HR 2.92; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.24, 6.90), disease-free survival (DFS) (HR 3.27; 95% CI 1.48, 7.20), and distant disease-free survival (DDFS) (HR 7.64; 95% CI 2.35, 24.82). Both proteins were significantly associated with molecular-like and PAM50 subgroups. Combining high PIWI-like 1 and low PIWI-like 2 expressions predicted poorer prognosis and both markers were associated with aggressive molecular subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramona Erber
- Institute of Pathology, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen—Europäische Metropolregion Nürnberg(EMN), University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (L.L.); (S.O.); (R.J.); (A.H.)
- Correspondence: (R.E.); (M.R.); Tel.: +49-9131-85-43634 (R.E.)
| | - Julia Meyer
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (J.M.); (P.A.F.); (L.H.); (P.G.); (M.W.B.)
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Biostatistics Unit, Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Helge Taubert
- Department of Urology and Pediatric Urology, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (H.T.); (S.W.)
| | - Peter A. Fasching
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (J.M.); (P.A.F.); (L.H.); (P.G.); (M.W.B.)
| | - Sven Wach
- Department of Urology and Pediatric Urology, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (H.T.); (S.W.)
| | - Lothar Häberle
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (J.M.); (P.A.F.); (L.H.); (P.G.); (M.W.B.)
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Biostatistics Unit, Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Paul Gaß
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (J.M.); (P.A.F.); (L.H.); (P.G.); (M.W.B.)
| | - Rüdiger Schulz-Wendtland
- Institute of Diagnostic Radiology, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany;
| | - Laura Landgraf
- Institute of Pathology, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen—Europäische Metropolregion Nürnberg(EMN), University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (L.L.); (S.O.); (R.J.); (A.H.)
| | - Sabrina Olbricht
- Institute of Pathology, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen—Europäische Metropolregion Nürnberg(EMN), University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (L.L.); (S.O.); (R.J.); (A.H.)
| | - Rudolf Jung
- Institute of Pathology, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen—Europäische Metropolregion Nürnberg(EMN), University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (L.L.); (S.O.); (R.J.); (A.H.)
| | - Matthias W. Beckmann
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (J.M.); (P.A.F.); (L.H.); (P.G.); (M.W.B.)
| | - Arndt Hartmann
- Institute of Pathology, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen—Europäische Metropolregion Nürnberg(EMN), University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (L.L.); (S.O.); (R.J.); (A.H.)
| | - Matthias Ruebner
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (J.M.); (P.A.F.); (L.H.); (P.G.); (M.W.B.)
- Correspondence: (R.E.); (M.R.); Tel.: +49-9131-85-43634 (R.E.)
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Qi T, Cao H, Sun H, Feng H, Li N, Wang C, Wang L. piR-19166 inhibits migration and metastasis through CTTN/MMPs pathway in prostate carcinoma. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:18209-18220. [PMID: 32881713 PMCID: PMC7585067 DOI: 10.18632/aging.103677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Tumor metastasis is one of death causes for patients of prostate carcinoma. PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are a subtype of noncoding protein RNAs that are involved in tumorigenesis, but the effect of piRNAs in prostate carcinoma (PCa) remains unclear. This article showed the identification of piRNAs was performed using a piRNA microarray screen in PCa tissues and several piRNAs were identified as dysregulated. The two up-regulated piRNAs (piR-19004 and piR-2878) and one down-regulated piR-19166 have been validated in the tissues and cell lines of PCa using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Further studies showed that piR-19166 is transfected into PCa cells to suppress its migration and metastasis. Mechanistically, cortactin (CTTN) 3' untranslated region (UTR) was complementary combined with piR-19166 by bioinformatic prediction and identified as a direct target of piR-19166 through dual-luciferase reporter assay. Over-expression and knockdown of CTTN could respectively rescue and simulate the effects induced by piR-19166. Finally, piR-19166 suppresses migration and metastasis by the CTTN/matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) pathway in PCa cells. Thus, these findings suggested that piR-19166 targets the CTTN of prostate cancer cells to inhibit migration and distant metastasis, and may represent a new marker of diagnosis and treatment for PCa patients in early stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingyue Qi
- Department of Ultrasound, Medical Imaging Center, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Haiyan Cao
- Department of Ultrasound, Medical Imaging Center, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Hongguang Sun
- Department of Ultrasound, Medical Imaging Center, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Hao Feng
- Department of Ultrasound, Medical Imaging Center, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Nianfeng Li
- Department of Ultrasound, Medical Imaging Center, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Chenghai Wang
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
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50
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Lin Y, Zheng J, Lin D. PIWI-interacting RNAs in human cancer. Semin Cancer Biol 2020; 75:15-28. [PMID: 32877760 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2020.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
P-element-induced wimpy testis (PIWI) interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are a class of small regulatory RNAs mechanistically similar to but much less studied than microRNAs and small interfering RNAs. Today the best understood function of piRNAs is transposon control in animal germ cells, which has earned them the name 'guardians of the germline'. Several molecular/cellular characteristics of piRNAs, including high sequence diversity, lack of secondary structures, and target-oriented generation seem to serve this purpose. Recently, aberrant expressions of piRNAs and PIWI proteins have been implicated in a variety of malignant tumors and associated with cancer hallmarks such as cell proliferation, inhibited apoptosis, invasion, metastasis and increased stemness. Researchers have also demonstrated multiple mechanisms of piRNA-mediated target deregulation associated with cancer initiation, progression or dissemination. We review current research findings on the biogenesis, normal functions and cancer associations of piRNAs, highlighting their potentials as cancer diagnostic/prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic tools. Whenever applicable, we draw connections with other research fields to encourage intercommunity conversations. We also offer recommendations and cautions regarding the general process of cancer-related piRNA studies and the methods/tools used at each step. Finally, we call attention to some issues that, if left unsolved, might impede the future development of this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Lin
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics (ICG), Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center (BIOPIC), Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
| | - Jian Zheng
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Dongxin Lin
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China and Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, 510060, China; Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
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