Inhibition of KLF7-Targeting MicroRNA 146b Promotes Sciatic Nerve Regeneration

To explore the protective effect and mechanism of KLF7 overexpression on retinal ganglion cells after optic nerve crush in mice

PurposeTo investigate the protective effect and mechanism of Krüppel-like factor 7 (KLF7) on retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) after optic nerve crush (ONC).MethodsNinety 10-week-old C57BL/6J mice were randomly assigned to five groups. The blank control group (group A), IVT (intravitreal injection) of KLF7 (group B), IVT of phosphate-buffered saline after ONC (group C), IVT of KLF7 after ONC (group D), and IVT of green fluorescent protein after ONC (group E). Retinal electroretinography and immunofluorescence staining were performed to observe the function and survival rate of RGCs on days 3 and 7 after ONC. The Western Blot determined the expressions of JNK 1, ERK, P38, NF-κB, IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α seven days after ONC.ResultsAfter ONC, KLF7 gradually increased from day 3 to day 14, with the peak noted a peak on day 7. On day 7 after ONC, the RGC survival rate in Group D was significantly higher than in groups C (P = 0.028) and E (P = 0.007). The negative PhNR wave amplitude significantly decreased in groups C (P = 0.03) and E (P = 0.04) compared to group D. Moreover, group D also showed significantly higher ERK levels among the groups (all P < 0.01); NF-κB, IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α expression decreased significantly in group D compared with groups C and E (all P < 0.01).ConclusionsOverexpression of KLF7 improved the survival rate and function of RGCs in mice ONC models by activating the ERK pathway and inhibiting relevant inflammatory factors. KLF7 may be a promising protective factor against optic nerve damage.

Reprogramming miR-146b-snphb Signaling Activates Axonal Mitochondrial Transport in the Zebrafish M-cell and Facilitates Axon Regeneration After Injury

Acute mitochondrial damage and the energy crisis following axonal injury highlight mitochondrial transport as an important target for axonal regeneration. Syntaphilin (Snph), known for its potent mitochondrial anchoring action, has emerged as a significant inhibitor of both mitochondrial transport and axonal regeneration. Therefore, investigating the molecular mechanisms that influence the expression levels of the snph gene can provide a viable strategy to regulate mitochondrial trafficking and enhance axonal regeneration. Here, we reveal the inhibitory effect of microRNA-146b (miR-146b) on the expression of the homologous zebrafish gene syntaphilin b (snphb). Through CRISPR/Cas9 and single-cell electroporation, we elucidated the positive regulatory effect of the miR-146b-snphb axis on Mauthner cell (M-cell) axon regeneration at the global and single-cell levels. Through escape response tests, we show that miR-146b-snphb signaling positively regulates functional recovery after M-cell axon injury. In addition, continuous dynamic imaging in vivo showed that reprogramming miR-146b significantly promotes axonal mitochondrial trafficking in the pre-injury and early stages of regeneration. Our study reveals an intrinsic axonal regeneration regulatory axis that promotes axonal regeneration by reprogramming mitochondrial transport and anchoring. This regulation involves noncoding RNA, and mitochondria-associated genes may provide a potential opportunity for the repair of central nervous system injury.

Analysis of chicken LGALSL (galectin-related protein) gene's proximal promoter and its control by Krüppel-like factors 3 and 7

The Galectin-Related Protein (GRP), encoded by the LGALSL gene, assigned to the protein family of β-galactoside-binding Galectins, has lost carbohydrate-binding abilities. Its chicken homolog (C-GRP) occurs in the bursa of Fabricius' epithelial and B cells. Our study investigates the unknown regulatory mechanisms controlling its expression by analyzing the promoter region of the chicken (C-)LGALSL gene in chicken cells. We aimed to identify the sequence elements of the C-LGALSL gene promoter responsible for maximum activity and transcription factors (TFs) that can modulate this activity. Using luciferase reporter assays, we investigated deletion variants of the 5' region (-2480 bp to +26 bp). Through in silico analyses and site-directed mutagenesis, we explored potential transcription factor binding sites, identified crucial transcription factors through transient overexpression and tested its direct binding by ChIP. Our findings highlight that the region from -274 to -75 bp, conserved among bird species, is crucial for promoter regulation. Among other tested factors, only the chicken (ch) Krüppel-like factors, chKLF3 and chKLF7, modulate the promoter's activity. The TFs chKLF3 acts as a repressor, and chKLF7 as an activator, although direct binding could not be confirmed. In conclusion, chKLF3 and chKLF7 contribute, in contrast to other factors with binding sites in the region from -274 to -75 bp, to C-LGALSL gene promoter regulation with a balanced impact on activity.

Understanding the role of potential biomarkers in attenuating multiple sclerosis progression via multiomics and network-based approach

BACKGROUND

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex neurological disorder marked by neuroinflammation and demyelination. Understanding its molecular basis is vital for developing effective treatments. This study aims to elucidate the molecular progression of MS using multiomics and network-based approach.

METHODS

We procured differentially expressed genes in MS patients and healthy controls by accessing mRNA dataset from a publicly accessible database. The DEGs were subjected to a non-trait weighted gene co-expression network (WGCN) for hub DEGs identification. These hub DEGs were utilized for enrichment, protein-protein interaction network (PPIN), and feed-forward loop (FFL) analyses.

RESULTS

We identified 880 MS-associated DEGs. WGCN revealed a total of 122 hub DEGs of which most significant pathway, gene ontology (GO)-biological process (BP), GO-molecular function (MF) and GO-cellular compartment (CC) terms were assembly and cell surface presentation of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, regulation of catabolic process, NAD(P)H oxidase H2O2 forming activity, postsynaptic recycling endosome. The intersection of top 10 significant pathways, GO-BP, GO-MF, GO-CC terms, and PPIN top cluster genests identified STAT3 and CREB1 as key biomarkers. Based on essential centrality measures, CREB1 was retained as the final biomarker. Highest-order subnetwork FFL motif comprised one TF (KLF7), one miRNA (miR-328-3p), and one mRNA (CREB1) based on essential centrality measures.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides insights into the roles of potential biomarkers in MS progression and offers a system-level view of its molecular landscape. Further experimental validation is needed to confirm these biomarkers' significance, which will lead to early diagnostic and therapeutic advancements.

USP7 alleviates neuronal inflammation and apoptosis in spinal cord injury via deubiquitinating NRF1/KLF7 axis

BACKGROUND

Ubiquitin-specific protease 7 (USP7) has been found to be associated with motor function recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI). Therefore, its role and mechanism in SCI process need further exploration.

METHODS

SCI rat models were established via performing laminectomy at the T9-T11 spinal vertebrae and cutting spinal cord tissues. SCI cell models were constructed by inducing PC12 cells with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The protein levels of USP7, nuclear respiratory factor 1 (NRF1), Krüppel-like factor 7 (KLF7) and apoptosis-related markers were detected by western blot. Cell viability and apoptosis were tested by cell counting kit-8 assay and flow cytometry. The contents of inflammatory factors were examined using ELISA. The interaction between NRF1 and USP7 or KLF7 was analyzed by co-immunoprecipitation assay, chromatin immunoprecipitation assay and dual-luciferase reporter assay, respectively.

RESULTS

USP7 was downregulated in SCI rat models and LPS-induced PC12 cells. Overexpressed USP7 promoted viability, while repressed apoptosis and inflammation in LPS-induced PC12 cells. USP7 could stabilize NRF1 protein expression via deubiquitination, and NRF1 knockdown reversed the protective effect of USP7 against LPS-induced PC12 cell injury. NRF1 is bound to KLF7 promoter to enhance its transcription. NRF1 overexpression inhibited LPS-induced PC12 cell inflammation and apoptosis via increasing KLF7 expression.

CONCLUSION

USP7 alleviated inflammation and apoptosis in LPS-induced PC12 cells via NRF1/KLF7 axis, indicating that targeting of USP7/NRF1/KLF7 axis might be a promising treatment strategy for SCI.

Advances of Schwann cells in peripheral nerve regeneration: From mechanism to cell therapy

Peripheral nerve injuries (PNIs) frequently occur due to various factors, including mechanical trauma such as accidents or tool-related incidents, as well as complications arising from diseases like tumor resection. These injuries frequently result in persistent numbness, impaired motor and sensory functions, neuropathic pain, or even paralysis, which can impose a significant financial burden on patients due to outcomes that often fall short of expectations. The most frequently employed clinical treatment for PNIs involves either direct sutures of the severed ends or bridging the proximal and distal stumps using autologous nerve grafts. However, autologous nerve transplantation may result in sensory and motor functional loss at the donor site, as well as neuroma formation and scarring. Transplantation of Schwann cells/Schwann cell-like cells has emerged as a promising cellular therapy to reconstruct the microenvironment and facilitate peripheral nerve regeneration. In this review, we summarize the role of Schwann cells and recent advances in Schwann cell therapy in peripheral nerve regeneration. We summarize current techniques used in cell therapy, including cell injection, 3D-printed scaffolds for cell delivery, cell encapsulation techniques, as well as the cell types employed in experiments, experimental models, and research findings. At the end of the paper, we summarize the challenges and advantages of various cells (including ESCs, iPSCs, and BMSCs) in clinical cell therapy. Our goal is to provide the theoretical and experimental basis for future treatments targeting peripheral nerves, highlighting the potential of cell therapy and tissue engineering as invaluable resources for promoting nerve regeneration.

The role of KLF transcription factor in the regulation of cancer progression

Kruppel-like factors (KLFs) are a family of zinc finger transcription factors that have been found to play an essential role in the development of various human tissues, including epithelial, teeth, and nerves. In addition to regulating normal physiological processes, KLFs have been implicated in promoting the onset of several cancers, such as gastric cancer, lung cancer, breast cancer, liver cancer, and colon cancer. To inhibit cancer progression, various existing medicines have been used to modulate the expression of KLFs, and anti-microRNA treatments have also emerged as a potential strategy for many cancers. Investigating the possibility of targeting KLFs in cancer therapy is urgently needed, as the roles of KLFs in cancer have not received enough attention in recent years. This review summarizes the factors that regulate KLF expression and function at both the transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels, which could aid in understanding the mechanisms of KLFs in cancer progression. We hope that this review will contribute to the development of more effective anti-cancer medicines targeting KLFs in the future.

Transgenic Schwann cells overexpressing POU6F1 promote sciatic nerve regeneration within acellular nerve allografts

Objective.Acellular nerve allograft (ANA) is an effective surgical approach used to bridge the sciatic nerve gap. The molecular regulators of post-surgical recovery are not well-known. Here, we explored the effect of transgenic Schwann cells (SCs) overexpressing POU domain class 6, transcription factor 1 (POU6F1) on sciatic nerve regeneration within ANAs. We explored the functions of POU6F1 in nerve regeneration by using a cell model of H₂O₂-induced SCs injury and transplanting SCs overexpressing POU6F1 into ANA to repair sciatic nerve gaps.Approach.Using RNA-seq, Protein-Protein Interaction network analysis, gene ontology enrichment, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis, we identified a highly and differentially expressed transcription factor, POU6F1, following ANA treatment of sciatic nerve gap. Expressing a high degree of connectivity, POU6F1 was predicted to play a role in peripheral nervous system myelination.Main results.To test the role of POU6F1 in nerve regeneration after ANA, we infected SCs with adeno-associated virus-POU6F1, demonstrating that POU6F1 overexpression promotes proliferation, anti-apoptosis, and migration of SCsin vitro. We also found that POU6F1 significantly upregulated JNK1/2 and c-Jun phosphorylation and that selective JNK1/2 inhibition attenuated the effects of POU6F1 on proliferation, survival, migration, and JNK1/2 and c-Jun phosphorylation. The direct interaction of POU6F1 and activated JNK1/2 was subsequently confirmed by co-immunoprecipitation. In rat sciatic nerve injury model with a 10 mm gap, we confirmed the pattern of POU6F1 upregulation and co-localization with transplanted SCs. ANAs loaded with POU6F1-overexpressing SCs demonstrated the enhanced survival of transplanted SCs, axonal regeneration, myelination, and functional motor recovery compared to the ANA group loaded by SCs-only in line within vitrofindings.Significance.This study identifies POU6F1 as a novel regulator of post-injury sciatic nerve repair, acting through JNK/c-Jun signaling in SCs to optimize therapeutic outcomes in the ANA surgical approach.

How miRNAs Regulate Schwann Cells during Peripheral Nerve Regeneration-A Systemic Review

A growing body of studies indicate that small noncoding RNAs, especially microRNAs (miRNA), play a crucial role in response to peripheral nerve injuries. During Wallerian degeneration and regeneration processes, they orchestrate several pathways, in particular the MAPK, AKT, and EGR2 (KROX20) pathways. Certain miRNAs show specific expression profiles upon a nerve lesion correlating with the subsequent nerve regeneration stages such as dedifferentiation and with migration of Schwann cells, uptake of debris, neurite outgrowth and finally remyelination of regenerated axons. This review highlights (a) the specific expression profiles of miRNAs upon a nerve lesion and (b) how miRNAs regulate nerve regeneration by acting on distinct pathways and linked proteins. Shedding light on the role of miRNAs associated with peripheral nerve regeneration will help researchers to better understand the molecular mechanisms and deliver targets for precision medicine.

Identification of miRNAs That Mediate Protective Functions of Anti-Cancer Drugs During White Matter Ischemic Injury

We have previously shown that two anti-cancer drugs, CX-4945 and MS-275, protect and preserve white matter (WM) architecture and improve functional recovery in a model of WM ischemic injury. While both compounds promote recovery, CX-4945 is a selective Casein kinase 2 (CK2) inhibitor and MS-275 is a selective Class I histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor. Alterations in microRNAs (miRNAs) mediate some of the protective actions of these drugs. In this study, we aimed to (1) identify miRNAs expressed in mouse optic nerves (MONs); (2) determine which miRNAs are regulated by oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD); and (3) determine the effects of CX-4945 and MS-275 treatment on miRNA expression. RNA isolated from MONs from control and OGD-treated animals with and without CX-4945 or MS-275 treatment were quantified using NanoString nCounter^® miRNA expression profiling. Comparative analysis of experimental groups revealed that 12 miRNAs were expressed at high levels in MONs. OGD upregulated five miRNAs (miR-1959, miR-501-3p, miR-146b, miR-201, and miR-335-3p) and downregulated two miRNAs (miR-1937a and miR-1937b) compared to controls. OGD with CX-4945 upregulated miR-1937a and miR-1937b, and downregulated miR-501-3p, miR-200a, miR-1959, and miR-654-3p compared to OGD alone. OGD with MS-275 upregulated miR-2134, miR-2141, miR-2133, miR-34b-5p, miR-153, miR-487b, miR-376b, and downregulated miR-717, miR-190, miR-27a, miR-1959, miR-200a, miR-501-3p, and miR-200c compared to OGD alone. Interestingly, miR-501-3p and miR-1959 were the only miRNAs upregulated by OGD, and downregulated by OGD plus CX-4945 and MS-275. Therefore, we suggest that protective functions of CX-4945 or MS-275 against WM injury maybe mediated, in part, through miRNA expression.

MicroRNA-301a-3p increases oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis in ox-LDL-induced HUVECs by targeting KLF7

Arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease is an inflammatory disease of ischemia or endothelial dysfunction caused by atherosclerosis, thereby causing high mortality. The viability and apoptosis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) following oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) induction or transfection was detected by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and flow cytometry analysis. MicroRNA (miR)-301a-3p and Krueppel-like factor 7 (KLF7) mRNA expression was determined by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). The levels of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and IL-6, activities of reactive oxygen species and superoxide dismutase and lactate dehydrogenase leakage were analyzed by respective commercial assay kits. The protein expression of IL-6, MCP-1, Bcl2, Bax, poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), cleaved PARP, pro-caspase3 and cleaved caspase-3 was detected by western blotting. miR-301a-3p expression is highly expressed in ox-LDL-induced HUVECs. miR-301a-3p is also a target of KLF7. Inhibition of miR-301a-3p suppressed oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis in ox-LDL-induced HUVECs, which was reversed by KLF7 inhibition. In conclusion, miR-301a-3p promotes oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis in ox-LDL-induced HUVECs via decreasing KLF7 expression.

Upregulation of miR-146b promotes porcine ovarian granulosa cell apoptosis by attenuating CYP19A1

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are 21- to 24-nucleotide long small noncoding RNAs, which play an important role in follicular atresia and granulosa cell (GC) apoptosis in the mammalian ovary. Here, we report that miR-146b, a conserved and ovary-enriched miRNA, modulates estradiol (E2) secretion, GC apoptosis, and follicular atresia in pigs. Genome-wide analysis and quantitative real-time PCR revealed that miR-146b was significantly upregulated during follicular atresia, and fluorescence-activated cell sorting showed that miR-146b functioned as a proapoptotic factor to induce GC apoptosis. MicroRNA-mRNA network analysis and luciferase reporter assays showed that CYP19A1, the pivotal enzyme for E2 synthesis signaling, was directly targeted by miR-146b. Furthermore, miR-146b interacted with the 3'untranslated region of CYP19A1 to prevent translation, thereby regulating CYP19A1-mediated E2 secretion and GC apoptosis. However, miR-146b was not regulated by the transcription factor SMAD4 or oxidative stress, both of which are critical regulators of CYP19A1. We, thus, conclude that miR-146b is a novel epigenetic factor regulating GC functions, follicular development, and female reproduction.

Combinatory transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells with flavonoid small molecule in acellular nerve graft promotes sciatic nerve regeneration

Previous animal studies have demonstrated that the flavonoid small-molecule TrkB agonist, 7, 8-dihydroxyflavone (DHF), promotes axon regeneration in transected peripheral nerves. In the present study, we investigated the combined effects of 7, 8-DHF treatment and bone marrow-derived stem/stromal cells (BMSCs) engraftment into acellular nerve allografts (ANAs) and explore relevant mechanisms that may be involved. Our results show that TrkB and downstream ERK1/2 phosphorylation are increased upon 7, 8-DHF treatment compared to the negative control group. Also, 7, 8-DHF promotes proliferation, survival, and Schwann-like cell differentiation of BMSCs in vitro. While selective ERK1/2 inhibitor U0126 suppressed the effect of upregulation of ERK1/2 phosphorylation and decreased cell proliferation, survival, and Schwann-like cell differentiation partially induced by 7, 8-DHF. In vivo, 7, 8-DHF promotes survival of transplanted BMSCs and upregulates axonal growth and myelination in regenerating ANAs. 7, 8-DHF+BMSCs also improved motor endplate density of target musculature. These benefits were associated with increased motor functional recovery. 7, 8-DHF+BMSCs significantly upregulated TrkB and ERK1/2 phosphorylation expression in regenerating ANA, and increased TrkB expression in the lumbar spinal cord. The mechanism of 7, 8-DHF action may be related to its ability to upregulate TrkB signaling, and downstream activation of survival signaling molecules ERK1/2 in the regenerating ANAs and spinal cord and improved survival of transplanted BMSCs. This study provides novel foundational data connecting the benefits of 7, 8-DHF treatment in neural injury and repair to BMSCs biology and function and demonstrates a potential combination approach for the treatment of injured peripheral nerve via nerve graft transplant.

Evaluation of circulating microRNA expression in patients with trigeminal neuralgia: An observational study

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a chronic neuropathic pain that seriously affects the daily life of patients. There is increasing evidence that microRNAs (miRNAs) play an important role in the development of neuropathic pain.In this study, the TaqMan Low Density Array (TLDA) was used to analyze the serum miRNA levels of 28 TN patients, and 31 healthy people without any neuropathic pain were used as controls.The results showed that the expression profile of serum miRNA in TN patients was different from that in healthy controls. Compared with the control group, 13 miRNAs in the serum of TN patients were up-regulated and 115 miRNAs were down-regulated by >2 times. Quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR) analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were performed. The analysis further confirmed that the expression levels of 4 miRNAs, including miR-132-3p, miR-146b-5p, miR-155-5p, and miR-384, were significantly higher than those of healthy controls, and the difference was statistically significant.This study preliminarily confirmed the changes of serum miRNA expression profile in TN patients. Among them, 4 kinds of serum miRNA are likely to be related to the occurrence and development of TN.

Dual Oxidase Mutant Retards Mauthner-Cell Axon Regeneration at an Early Stage via Modulating Mitochondrial Dynamics in Zebrafish

Dual oxidase (duox)-derived reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been correlated with neuronal polarity, cerebellar development, and neuroplasticity. However, there have not been many comprehensive studies of the effect of individual duox isoforms on central-axon regeneration in vivo. Here, we explored this question in zebrafish, an excellent model organism for central-axon regeneration studies. In our research, mutation of the duox gene with CRISPR/Cas9 significantly retarded the single-axon regeneration of the zebrafish Mauthner cell in vivo. Using deep transcriptome sequencing, we found that the expression levels of related functional enzymes in mitochondria were down-regulated in duox mutant fish. In vivo imaging showed that duox mutants had significantly disrupted mitochondrial transport and redox state in single Mauthner-cell axon. Our research data provide insights into how duox is involved in central-axon regeneration by changing mitochondrial transport.

Using RNA-Seq to Explore the Repair Mechanism of the Three Methods and Three-Acupoint Technique on DRGs in Sciatic Nerve Injured Rats

Objective

To study the effects of the three methods and three-acupoint technique on DRG gene expression in SNI model rats and to elucidate the molecular mechanism of the three methods and three-acupoint technique on promoting recovery in peripheral nerve injury.

Methods

27 male SD rats were randomly divided into three groups: a Sham group, the SNI group, and the Tuina group. The Tuina group was treated with a tuina manipulation simulator to simulate massage on points, controlling for both quality and quantity. Point-pressing, plucking, and kneading methods were administered quantitatively at Yinmen (BL37), Chengshan (BL57), and Yanglingquan (GB34) points on the affected side once a day, beginning 7 days after modeling. Intervention was applied once a day for 10 days, then 1 day of rest, followed by 10 more days of intervention, totally equaling 20 times of intervention. The effect of the three methods and three-point technique on the recovery of injured rats was evaluated using behavior analysis. RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) analysis of differentially expressed genes in DRGs of the three groups of rats was also performed. GO and KEGG enrichment was analyzed and verified using real-time PCR.

Results

RNA-Seq combined with database information showed that the number of differentially expressed genes in DRG was the largest in the Tuina group compared with the SNI group, totaling 226. GO function is enriched in the positive regulation of cell processes, ion binding, protein binding, neuron, response to pressure, response to metal ions, neuron projection, and other biological processes. GO function is also enriched in the Wnt, IL-17, and MAPK signaling pathways in the KEGG database. PCR results were consistent with those of RNA sequencing, suggesting that the results of transcriptome sequencing were reliable.

Conclusion

The three methods and three-acupoint technique can promote the recovery of SNI model rats by altering the gene sequence in DRGs.

Schwann cells apoptosis is induced by high glucose in diabetic peripheral neuropathy

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common complication of diabetes mellitus that affects approximately half of patients with diabetes. Current treatment regimens cannot treat DPN effectively. Schwann cells (SCs) are very sensitive to glucose concentration and insulin, and closely associated with the occurrence and development of type 1 diabetic mellitus (T1DM) and DPN. Apoptosis of SCs is induced by hyperglycemia and is involved in the pathogenesis of DPN. This review considers the pathological processes of SCs apoptosis under high glucose, which include the following: oxidative stress, inflammatory reactions, endoplasmic reticulum stress, autophagy, nitrification and signaling pathways (PI3K/AKT, ERK, PERK/Nrf2, and Wnt/β-catenin). The clarification of mechanisms underlying SCs apoptosis induced by high glucose will help us to understand and identify more effective strategies for the treatment of T1DM DPN.

High Expression of Krüppel-like Factor 7 Indicates Unfavorable Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Lung Adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Krüppel-like factor 7 (KLF7), which belongs to the KLF family of zinc finger transcription factors, plays a critical role in regulating gene expression. It was reported that KLF7 overexpression was closely related to the progression of gastric cancer. However, the role of KLF7 in lung adenocarcinoma (LAC) has not been elucidated. The aim of our study is to investigate the expression pattern of KLF7 and explore whether the KLF7 expression is correlated with unfavorable clinical outcome of patients with LAC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The protein and mRNA levels of KLF7 were examined in LAC tissues by using immunohistochemistry staining and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, respectively. The prognostic role of KLF7 in patients with LAC was assessed using univariate and multivariate analyses. Clinical outcomes were evaluated by Kaplan-Meier analysis and logrank test. The effects of KLF7 on lung cancer cells were investigated through cellular experiments.

RESULTS

KLF7 expression was elevated in LAC tissues compared with adjacent normal tissues. High protein level of KLF7 was correlated with larger tumor size, positive lymph node metastasis, and advanced TNM stage. Moreover, patients with LAC with higher expression level of KLF7 had poorer overall survival, and KLF7 was identified as an unfavorable independent prognosis factor. Knockdown of KLF7 can suppress the proliferation and invasion abilities of cancer cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Our studies revealed that high KLF7 expression level was significantly associated with the poorer clinical outcomes of patients with LAC, indicating the potential role of KLF7 as a novel prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target.

MiR-125a-5p Regulates Vitamin D Receptor Expression in a Mouse Model of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic and incurable autoimmune neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system. Although the symptoms of MS can be managed by vitamin D3 treatment alone, this condition cannot be completely eradicated. Thus, there might be unknown factors capable of regulating the vitamin D receptor (VDR). Genome-wide analysis showed that miRNAs were associated with VDRs. We sought to determine the role and mechanism of action of miRNA-125a-5p and VDRs in a model of MS, mice with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), which was induced by myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein 35-55 peptides. EAE mice showed decreased mean body weight but increased mean clinical scores compared with vehicle or control mice. And inflammatory infiltration was found in the lumbosacral spinal cord of EAE mice. In addition, VDR expression was significantly lower while the expression of miR-125a-5p was markedly higher in the spinal ventral horn of EAE mice than in vehicle or control mice. Importantly, activation of VDRs by paricalcitol or inhibition of miR-125a-5p by its antagomir markedly decreased the mean clinical scores in EAE mice. Interestingly, VDR and miR-125a-5p were co-localized in the same neurons of the ventral horn. More importantly, inhibition of miR-125a-5p remarkably blocked the decrease of VDRs in EAE mice. These results support a critical role for miR-125a-5p in modulating VDR activity in EAE and suggest potential novel therapeutic interventions.

KLF7 overexpression in bone marrow stromal stem cells graft transplantation promotes sciatic nerve regeneration

OBJECTIVE

Our previous study demonstrated that the transcription factor, Krüppel-like Factor 7 (KLF7), stimulates axon regeneration following peripheral nerve injury. In the present study, we used a gene therapy approach to overexpress KLF7 in bone marrow-derived stem/stromal cells (BMSCs) as support cells, combined with acellular nerve allografts (ANAs) and determined the potential therapeutic efficacy of a KLF7-transfected BMSC nerve graft transplantation in a rodent model for sciatic nerve injury and repair.

APPROACH

We efficiently transfected BMSCs with adeno-associated virus (AAV)-KLF7, which were then seeded in ANAs for bridging sciatic nerve defects.

MAIN RESULTS

KLF7 overexpression promotes proliferation, survival, and Schwann-like cell differentiation of BMSCs in vitro. In vivo, KLF7 overexpression promotes transplanted BMSCs survival and myelinated fiber regeneration in regenerating ANAs; however, KLF7 did not improve Schwann-like cell differentiation of BMSCs within in the nerve grafts. KLF7-BMSCs significantly upregulated expression and secretion of neurotrophic factors by BMSCs, including nerve growth factor, ciliary neurotrophic factor, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor in regenerating ANA. KLF7-BMSCs also improved motor axon regeneration, and subsequent neuromuscular innervation and prevention of muscle atrophy. These benefits were associated with increased motor functional recovery of regenerating ANAs.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our findings suggest that KLF7-BMSCs promoted peripheral nerve axon regeneration and myelination, and ultimately, motor functional recovery. The mechanism of KLF7 action may be related to its ability to enhance transplanted BMSCs survival and secrete neurotrophic factors rather than Schwann-like cell differentiation. This study provides novel foundational data connecting the benefits of KLF7 in neural injury and repair to BMSC biology and function, and demonstrates a potential combination approach for the treatment of injured peripheral nerve via nerve graft transplant.

Exosome-encapsulated microRNAs as promising biomarkers for Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that locks into long clinical latency and low curative ratio. Therefore, early diagnosis before the clinical phase is quite essential and may be effective for therapeutic prevention. Peripheral blood or cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers symbolizing functional neuronal impairment are gradually applied to diagnose AD in research studies. Exosomes have generated immense interest in the diagnosis field of neurodegenerative disorders after confirmation of their roles as mediators, delivering important proteins and microRNAs (miRNAs) in intercellular communication. Compelling research results reveal that miRNAs released from exosomes modulate expression and function of amyloid precursor proteins and tau proteins. These findings open up possibility that dysfunctional exosomal miRNAs may influence AD progression. In this review, we summarized the existing knowledge of exosomal miRNAs and their involvement in AD, emphasizing their potential to serve as diagnostic biomarkers during the preclinical phase of AD.

Schwann Cell-Like Cells Derived from Human Amniotic Mesenchymal Stem Cells Promote Peripheral Nerve Regeneration through a MicroRNA-214/c-Jun Pathway

Background

The use of Schwann cell-like cells (SCLCs) derived from stem cells has been introduced as an effective strategy for promoting peripheral nerve regeneration (PNR). However, molecular mechanisms underlying therapeutic transplantation of SCLCs for PNR are often ignored.

Objectives

To explore the potential of SCLCs for the treatment of sciatic never injury and investigate the underlying molecule mechanisms.

Method

SCLCs differentiated from human amniotic mesenchymal stem cells (hAMSCs) and specific markers of Schwann cells were detected. SCLCs were transplanted into the injured sites of a rat model of sciatic nerve injury, and sciatic nerve functional index (SFI) was determined.

Results

SCLCs expressed specific markers of Schwann cells as well as secreted neurotrophic factors. The transplantation of SCLCs into injured sites of a rat model of sciatic nerve injury promoted the functional recovery. With regard to the underlying molecular mechanisms, we identified c-Jun as a negative regulator of the myelination of SCLCs. Moreover, we discovered a novel signaling transduction pathway in SCLCs; that is, miR-214 directly targets c-Jun to promote the myelination of SCLCs. Finally, we demonstrated that miR-214 upon overexpression in SCLCs enhanced the therapeutic effects of SCLCs on sciatic nerve injury.

Conclusions

We demonstrate that SCLCs have beneficial effect for myelination. Moreover, our results provide a previously unknown molecular basis underlying the treatment of peripheral nerve injury with SCLCs and also offer a practical strategy for future therapeutic promotion of PNR.

MicroRNA-365 Knockdown Prevents Ischemic Neuronal Injury by Activating Oxidation Resistance 1-Mediated Antioxidant Signals

MicroRNA-365 (miR-365) is upregulated in the ischemic brain and is involved in oxidative damage in the diabetic rat. However, it is unclear whether miR-365 regulates oxidative stress (OS)-mediated neuronal damage after ischemia. Here, we used a transient middle cerebral artery occlusion model in rats and the hydrogen peroxide-induced OS model in primary cultured neurons to assess the roles of miR-365 in neuronal damage. We found that miR-365 exacerbated ischemic brain injury and OS-induced neuronal damage and was associated with a reduced expression of OXR1 (Oxidation Resistance 1). In contrast, miR-365 antagomir alleviated both the brain injury and OXR1 reduction. Luciferase assays indicated that miR-365 inhibited OXR1 expression by directly targeting the 3'-untranslated region of Oxr1. Furthermore, knockdown of OXR1 abolished the neuroprotective and antioxidant effects of the miR-365 antagomir. Our results suggest that miR-365 upregulation increases oxidative injury by inhibiting OXR1 expression, while its downregulation protects neurons from oxidative death by enhancing OXR1-mediated antioxidant signals.

MicroRNAs 93-5p, 106b-5p, 17-5p, and 140-5p target the expression of early growth response protein 2 in Schwann cells

Early growth response protein 2 (EGR2) is an essential transcription factor for peripheral nerve myelination. Schwann cells (SCs), the peripheral myelin-forming glial cells, express high levels of EGR2 during postnatal myelination. In contrast, SCs exhibit low EGR2 expression during Wallerian degeneration after injury. In this study, we screened 10 potential microRNAs (miRNAs) (20a-5p, 137-5p, 140-5p, 148b-3p, 150-5p, 17-5p, 93-5p, 20b-5p, 106b-5p, and 152-3p) that potentially target EGR2 using miRNA algorithms and identified that miRNAs 106b-5p, 140-5p, 93-5p, and 17-5p target EGR2 in SCs. These miRNAs directly target EGR2 by binding to the 3'-untranslated region to suppress EGR2 mRNA levels. Additionally, the levels of miRNAs 93-5p, 106b-5p, 17-5p, and 140-5p were decreased in the sciatic nerves during postnatal development; however, these miRNAs were increased on day 1 after sciatic nerve injury. Taken together, these findings suggest that the expression of EGR2 during postnatal development and Wallerian degeneration could be regulated by the inverse expression of miRNAs 106b-5p, 140-5p, 93-5p, and 17-5p, which target EGR2.

Emerging role of MicroRNAs in peripheral nerve system

Peripheral nerve injury is one of the most common clinical diseases. Although the regeneration of the peripheral nerve is better than that of the nerves of the central nervous system, because of its growth rate restrictions after damage. Hence, the outcome of repair after injury is not favorable. Small RNA, a type of non-coding RNA, has recently been gaining attention in neural injury. It is widely distributed in the nervous system in vivo and a significant change in the expression of small RNAs has been observed in a neural injury model. This suggests that MicroRNAs (miRNAs) may serve as a potential target for resolving the challenges of peripheral nerve repair. This review summarizes the current challenges in peripheral nerve injury repair, systematically expounds the mechanism of miRNAs in the process of nerve injury and repair and attempts to determine the possible treatment of peripheral nerve injury.