The role of a ceRNA regulatory network based on lncRNA MALAT1 site in cancer progression

LncRNA MALAT1 in Keratinocyte function: A review of recent advances

Keratinocytes, the principal epidermal cells, play a vital role in maintaining the structural integrity and functionality of the skin. Beyond their protective role, keratinocytes are key contributors to the process of wound healing, as they migrate to injury sites, proliferate, and generate new layers of epidermis, facilitating tissue repair and remodeling. Moreover, keratinocytes actively participate in the skin's immune responses, expressing pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) to detect microbial components and interact with immune cells to influence adaptive immunity. Keratinocytes express a diverse repertoire of signaling pathways, transcription factors, and epigenetic regulators to regulate their growth, differentiation, and response to environmental cues. Among these regulatory elements, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as essential players in keratinocyte biology. LncRNAs, including MALAT1, play diverse roles in gene regulation and cellular processes, influencing keratinocyte proliferation, differentiation, migration, and response to environmental stimuli. Dysregulation of specific lncRNAs such as MALAT1 can disrupt keratinocyte homeostasis, leading to impaired differentiation, compromised barrier integrity, and contributing to the pathogenesis of various skin disorders. Understanding the intricate interplay between lncRNAs and keratinocytes offers promising insights into the molecular underpinnings of skin health and disease, with potential implications for targeted therapies and advancements in dermatological research. Hence, our objective is to provide a comprehensive summary of the available knowledge concerning keratinocytes and their intricate relationship with MALAT1.

Non‑coding RNA: A promising diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (Review)

Esophageal cancer (EC) is a common form of malignant tumor in the digestive system that is classified into two types: Esophageal squamous cell carcinomas (ESCC) and esophageal adenocarcinoma. ESCC is known for its early onset of symptoms, which can be difficult to identify, as well as its rapid progression and tendency to develop drug resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. These factors contribute to the high incidence of disease and low cure rate. Therefore, a diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target need to be identified for ESCC. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are a class of molecules that are transcribed from DNA but do not encode proteins. Initially, ncRNAs were considered to be non-functional segments generated during transcription. However, with advancements in high-throughput sequencing technologies in recent years, ncRNAs have been associated with poor prognosis, drug resistance and progression of ESCC. The present study provides a comprehensive overview of the biogenesis, characteristics and functions of ncRNAs, particularly focusing on microRNA, long ncRNAs and circular RNAs. Furthermore, the ncRNAs that could potentially be used as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for ESCC are summarized to highlight their application value and prospects in ESCC.

Long Noncoding RNA MALAT1: Salt-Sensitive Hypertension

Hypertension stands as the leading global cause of mortality, affecting one billion individuals and serving as a crucial risk indicator for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Elevated salt intake triggers inflammation and hypertension by activating antigen-presenting cells (APCs). We found that one of the primary reasons behind this pro-inflammatory response is the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC), responsible for transporting sodium ions into APCs and the activation of NADPH oxidase, leading to increased oxidative stress. Oxidative stress increases lipid peroxidation and the formation of pro-inflammatory isolevuglandins (IsoLG). Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a crucial role in regulating gene expression, and MALAT1, broadly expressed across cell types, including blood vessels and inflammatory cells, is also associated with inflammation regulation. In hypertension, the decreased transcriptional activity of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2 or Nfe2l2) correlates with heightened oxidative stress in APCs and impaired control of various antioxidant genes. Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1), an intracellular inhibitor of Nrf2, exhibits elevated levels of hypertension. Sodium, through an increase in Sp1 transcription factor binding at its promoter, upregulates MALAT1 expression. Silencing MALAT1 inhibits sodium-induced Keap1 upregulation, facilitating the nuclear translocation of Nrf2 and subsequent antioxidant gene transcription. Thus, MALAT1, acting via the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway, modulates antioxidant defense in hypertension. This review explores the potential role of the lncRNA MALAT1 in controlling the Keap1-Nrf2-antioxidant defense pathway in salt-induced hypertension. The inhibition of MALAT1 holds therapeutic potential for the progression of salt-induced hypertension and cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Identification and coregulation pattern analysis of long noncoding RNAs in the mouse brain after Angiostrongylus cantonensis infection

BACKGROUND

Angiostrongyliasis is a highly dangerous infectious disease. Angiostrongylus cantonensis larvae migrate to the mouse brain and cause symptoms, such as brain swelling and bleeding. Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are novel targets for the control of parasitic infections. However, the role of these molecules in A. cantonensis infection has not been fully clarified.

METHODS

In total, 32 BALB/c mice were randomly divided into four groups, and the infection groups were inoculated with 40 A. cantonensis larvae by gavage. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and RNA library construction were performed on brain tissues from infected mice. Differential expression of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and mRNAs in brain tissues was identified by high-throughput sequencing. The pathways and functions of the differentially expressed lncRNAs were determined by Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Gene Ontology (GO) analyses. The functions of the differentially expressed lncRNAs were further characterized by lncRNA‒microRNA (miRNA) target interactions. The potential host lncRNAs involved in larval infection of the brain were validated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‒PCR).

RESULTS

The pathological results showed that the degree of brain tissue damage increased with the duration of infection. The transcriptome results showed that 859 lncRNAs and 1895 mRNAs were differentially expressed compared with those in the control group, and several lncRNAs were highly expressed in the middle-late stages of mouse infection. GO and KEGG pathway analyses revealed that the differentially expressed target genes were enriched mainly in immune system processes and inflammatory response, among others, and several potential regulatory networks were constructed.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed the expression profiles of lncRNAs in the brains of mice after infection with A. cantonensis. The lncRNAs H19, F630028O10Rik, Lockd, AI662270, AU020206, and Mexis were shown to play important roles in the infection of mice with A. cantonensis infection.

Bioinformatics Analysis and Experimental Validation for Exploring Key Molecular Markers for Glioblastoma

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common primary intracranial malignancy with a very low survival rate. Exploring key molecular markers for GBM can help with early diagnosis, prognostic prediction, and recurrence monitoring. This study aims to explore novel biomarkers for GBM via bioinformatics analysis and experimental verification. Dataset GSE103229 was obtained from the GEO database to search differentially expressed lncRNA (DELs), mRNAs (DEMs), and miRNAs (DEMis). Hub genes were selected to establish competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks. The GEPIA database was employed for the survival analysis and expression detection of hub genes. Hub gene expression in GBM tissue samples and cell lines was validated using RT-qPCR. Western blotting was employed for protein expression evaluation. SYT1 overexpression vector was transfected in GBM cells. CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry were performed to detect the malignant phenotypes of GBM cells. There were 901 upregulated and 1086 downregulated DEMs identified, which were prominently enriched in various malignancy-related functions and pathways. Twenty-two hub genes were selected from PPI networks. Survival analysis and experimental validation revealed that four hub genes were tightly associated with GBM prognosis and progression, including SYT1, GRIN2A, KCNA1, and SYNPR. The four genes were significantly downregulated in GBM tissues and cell lines. Overexpressing SYT1 alleviated the proliferation and promoted the apoptosis of GBM cells in vitro. We identify four genes that may be potential molecular markers of GBM, which may provide new ideas for improving early diagnosis and prediction of the disease.

Prognosis and biological function of SGOL1 in clear cell renal cell carcinoma: a multiomics analysis

BACKGROUND

Shugoshin-1 (SGOL1) is a mammalian ortholog of Shugoshin in yeast and is essential for precise chromosome segregation during mitosis and meiosis. Aberrant SGOL1 expression was reported to be closely correlated with the malignant progression of various tumors. However, the expression pattern and biological function of SGOL1 in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) are unclear.

METHODS

The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases provide mRNA expression data and outcome information for ccRCC patients. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) of ccRCC tissue chips verified SGOL1 protein expression in ccRCC patients. Data processing and visualization were performed with the UALCAN, TISIDB, TIMER, GSCA, LinkedOmics, and starBase databases. Gene Ontology (GO) annotation and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) were used to identify SGOL1-related biological functions and signaling pathways. Immune infiltration analysis was performed using the TISIDB database, ssGSEA algorithm, and TCGA-KIRC cohort. The biological role of SGOL1 in ccRCC was investigated using a series of in vitro cytological assays, including the MTT assay, EdU staining assay, flow cytometry analysis, Transwell assay, and wound healing assay.

RESULTS

SGOL1 was highly expressed in ccRCC and linked to adverse clinicopathological parameters and unfavorable prognosis. Multivariate logistic regression and nomogram calibration suggested that SGOL1 might serve as an independent and reliable prognostic predictor of ccRCC. Functional enrichment analysis indicated that SGOL1 may be involved in the cell cycle, the p53 pathway, DNA replication, and T-cell activation. Furthermore, tumor microenvironment (TME) analysis suggested that SGOL1 was positively associated with Treg infiltration and immune checkpoint upregulation. In addition, we identified a potential SNHG17/PVT1/ZMIZ1-AS1-miR-23b-3p-SGOL1 axis correlated with ccRCC carcinogenesis and progression. Finally, we demonstrated that SGOL1 promoted ccRCC cell proliferation, migratory capacity, and invasion in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS

SGOL1 potentially functions as an oncogene in ccRCC progression and might contribute to the immunosuppressive TME by increasing Treg infiltration and checkpoint expression, suggesting that targeting SGOL1 could be a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of ccRCC patients.

Uncovering the ceRNA Network Related to the Prognosis of Stomach Adenocarcinoma Among 898 Patient Samples

Stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD) patients are often associated with significantly high mortality rates and poor prognoses worldwide. Among STAD patients, competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) play key roles in regulating one another at the post-transcriptional stage by competing for shared miRNAs. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the roles of lncRNAs in the ceRNA network of STAD, uncovering the molecular biomarkers for target therapy and prognosis. Specifically, a multitude of differentially expressed lncRNAs, miRNAs, and mRNAs (i.e., 898 samples in total) was collected and processed from TCGA. Cytoplasmic lncRNAs were kept for evaluating overall survival (OS) time and constructing the ceRNA network. Differentially expressed mRNAs in the ceRNA network were also investigated for functional and pathological insights. Interestingly, we identified one ceRNA network including 13 lncRNAs, 25 miRNAs, and 9 mRNAs. Among them, 13 RNAs were found related to the patient survival time; their individual risk score can be adopted for prognosis inference. Finally, we constructed a comprehensive ceRNA regulatory network for STAD and developed our own risk-scoring system that can predict the OS time of STAD patients by taking into account the above.

Identification and clinical value of a new ceRNA axis (TIMP3/hsa-miR-181b-5p/PAX8-AS1) in thyroid cancer

Background

Thyroid cancer (TC) is a prevalent and increasingly common malignant tumor. In most cases, TC progresses slowly and runs a virtually benign course. However, challenges remain with the treatment of refractory TC, which does not respond to traditional management or is subject to relapse or metastasis. Therefore, new therapeutic regimens for TC patients with poor outcomes are urgently needed.

Methods

The differentially expressed RNAs were identified from the expression profile data of RNA from TC downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas database. Multiple databases were utilized to investigate the regulatory relationship among RNAs. Subsequently, a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network was established to elucidate the ceRNA axis that is responsible for the clinical prognosis of TC. To understand the potential mechanism of ceRNA axis in TC, location analysis, functional enrichment analysis, and immune-related analysis were conducted.

Results

A ceRNA network of TC was constructed, and the TIMP3/hsa-miR-181b-5p/PAX8-AS1 ceRNA axis associated with the prognosis of TC was successfully identified. Our results showed that the axis might influence the prognosis of TC through its regulation of regulating tumor immunity.

Conclusions

Our findings provide evidence that TIMP3/hsa-miR-181b-5p/PAX8-AS1 axis is significantly related to the prognosis of TC. The molecules involved in this axis may serve as novel therapeutic approaches for TC treatment.

Upregulation of CCNB2 and a novel lncRNAs-related risk model predict prognosis in clear cell renal cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is the main type of renal cell carcinoma. Cyclin B2 (CCNB2) is a subtype of B-type cyclin that is associated with the prognosis of several cancers. This study aimed to identify the relationship between CCNB2 and progression of ccRCC and construct a novel lncRNAs-related model to predict prognosis of ccRCC patients.

METHODS

The data were obtained from public databases. We identified CCNB2 in ccRCC using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, univariate and multivariate Cox regression, and Gene Ontology analysis. External validation was then performed. The risk model was constructed based on prognostic lncRNAs by the LASSO algorithm and multivariate Cox regression. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves were used to evaluate the model. Consensus clustering analysis was performed to re-stratify the patients. Finally, we analyzed the tumor-immune microenvironment and performed screening of potential drugs.

RESULTS

CCNB2 associated with late clinicopathological parameters and poor prognosis in ccRCC and was an independent predictor for disease-free survival. In addition, CCNB2 shared the same expression pattern with known suppressive immune checkpoints. A risk model dependent on the expression of three prognostic CCNB2-related lncRNAs (SNHG17, VPS9D1-AS1, and ZMIZ1-AS1) was constructed. The risk signature was an independent predictor of ccRCC. The area under the ROC (AUC) curve for overall survival at 1-, 3-, 5-, and 8-year was 0.704, 0.702, 0.741, and 0.763. The high-risk group and cluster 2 had stronger immunogenicity and were more sensitive to immunotherapy.

CONCLUSION

CCNB2 could be an important biomarker for predicting prognosis in ccRCC patients. Furthermore, we developed a novel lncRNAs-related risk model and identified two CCNB2-related molecular clusters. The risk model performed well in predicting overall survival and immunological microenvironment of ccRCC.

Exosomal long non-coding RNAs in glioblastoma

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most prevalent primary tumor found in the central nervous system, accounting for 70% of all adult brain tumors. The median overall survival rate is one year post-diagnosis with treatment, and only four months without treatment. Current GBM diagnostic methods, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), surgery, and brain biopsies, have limitations. These include difficulty distinguishing between tumor recurrence and post-surgical necrotic regions, and operative risks associated with obtaining histological samples through direct surgery or biopsies. Consequently, there is a need for rapid, inexpensive, and minimally invasive techniques for early diagnosis and improved subsequent treatment. Research has shown that tumor-derived exosomes containing various long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play critical regulatory roles in immunomodulation, cancer metastasis, cancer development, and drug resistance in GBM. They regulate genes that enhance cancer growth and progression and alter the expression of several key signaling pathways. Due to the specificity and sensitivity of exosomal lncRNAs, they have the potential to be used as biomarkers for early diagnosis and prognosis, as well as to monitor a patient's response to chemotherapy for GBM. In this review, we discuss the role of exosomal lncRNAs in the pathogenesis of GBM and their potential clinical applications for early diagnosis.

The lncRNA Malat1 inhibits miR-15/16 to enhance cytotoxic T cell activation and memory cell formation

Proper activation of cytotoxic T cells via the T cell receptor and the costimulatory receptor CD28 is essential for adaptive immunity against viruses, intracellular bacteria, and cancers. Through biochemical analysis of RNA:protein interactions, we uncovered a non-coding RNA circuit regulating activation and differentiation of cytotoxic T cells composed of the long non-coding RNA Malat1 (Metastasis Associated Lung Adenocarcinoma Transcript 1) and the microRNA family miR-15/16. miR-15/16 is a widely and highly expressed tumor suppressor miRNA family important for cell proliferation and survival. miR-15/16 play important roles in T cell responses to viral infection, including the regulation of antigen-specific T cell expansion and memory. Comparative Argonaute-2 high-throughput sequencing of crosslinking immunoprecipitation (AHC) combined with gene expression profiling in normal and miR-15/16-deficient mouse T cells revealed a large network of hundreds of direct miR-15/16 target mRNAs, many with functional relevance for T cell activation, survival and memory formation. Among these targets, Malat1 contained the largest absolute magnitude miR-15/16-dependent AHC peak. This binding site was among the strongest lncRNA:miRNA interactions detected in the T cell transcriptome. We used CRISPR targeting with homology directed repair to generate mice with a 5-nucleotide mutation in the miR-15/16-binding site in Malat1. This mutation interrupted Malat1:miR-15/16 interaction, and enhanced the repression of other miR-15/16 target genes, including CD28. Interrupting Malat1 interaction with miR-15/16 decreased cytotoxic T cell activation, including the expression of interleukin 2 (IL-2) and a broader CD28-responsive gene program. Accordingly, Malat1 mutation diminished memory cell persistence in mice following LCMV Armstrong and Listeria monocytogenes infection. This study marks a significant advance in the study of long non-coding RNAs in the immune system by ascribing cell-intrinsic, sequence-specific in vivo function to Malat1. These findings have implications for T cell-mediated autoimmune diseases, antiviral and anti-tumor immunity, as well as lung adenocarcinoma and other malignancies where Malat1 is overexpressed.

LncRNA MALAT1 signaling pathway and clinical applications in overcome on cancers metastasis

In spite of its high mortality rate and difficulty in finding a cure, scientific advancements have contributed to a reduction in cancer-related fatalities. Aberrant gene expression during carcinogenesis emphasizes the importance of targeting the signaling networks that control gene expression in cancer treatment. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), which are transcribed RNA molecules that play a role in gene expression regulation, are a recent innovative therapeutic approach for diagnosing and treating malignancies. MALAT1, a well-known lncRNA, functions in gene expression, RNA processing, and epigenetic control. High expression levels of MALAT1 are associated with several human disorders, including metastasis, invasion, autophagy, and proliferation of cancer cells. MALAT1 affects various signaling pathways and microRNAs (miRNAs), and this study aims to outline its functional roles in cancer metastasis and its interactions with cellular signaling pathways. Moreover, MALAT1 and its interactions with signaling pathways can be promising target for cancer treatment.

Analysis of Nucleoporin 107 Overexpression and Its Association with Prognosis and Immune Infiltration in Lung Adenocarcinoma by Bioinformatics Methods

Background

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) has high morbidity and mortality. Current studies indicate nucleoporin 107 (NUP107) is involved in the construction of nuclear pore complex, and NUP107 overexpression contributes to the growth and development in most types of cancers, but its effect in LUAD has not been elucidated.

Methods

Differences in NUP107 expression were investigated using the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and multiple Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) data sets. Enrichment analysis were implemented to probe the NUP107 function. The association of NUP107 with the degree of immune cell infiltration was investigated by the TIMER database, single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA), and ESTIMATE. The association of NUP107 expression with tumor mutation burden (TMB), TP53, and immune checkpoint was analyzed. Single-cell RNA sequencing data were used to detect NUP107 expression in different cell clusters. Finally, we performed real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) to prove the difference of NUP107 expression.

Results

NUP107 was overexpressed in LUAD and mainly expressed in cancer stem cell (CSC). Overexpression of NUP107 in LUAD suggested a poorer prognosis. Functional enrichment analysis pointed out that NUP107 was mainly linked to the regulation of cell cycle. Both immune cell infiltration and TMB were found to be in connection with NUP107. Cases in the group with high NUP107 expression had poorer immune infiltration, but had higher expression of immune checkpoints, TMB, and proportion of TP53 mutations.

Conclusion

NUP107 is a sensitive diagnostic and prognostic factor for LUAD and may be involved in tumor progression through its effects on cell cycle and immune infiltration.

LncRNA-XR_002792574.1-mediated ceRNA network reveals potential biomarkers in myopia-induced retinal ganglion cell damage

BACKGROUND

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a key role in the occurrence and progression of myopia. However, the function of lncRNAs in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in the pathogenesis of myopia is still unknown. The aim of our study was to explore the lncRNA-mediated competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network in RGCs during the development of myopia.

METHODS

RNA sequencing was performed to analyze lncRNA and mRNA expression profiles in RGCs between guinea pigs with form-deprived myopia (FDM) and normal control guinea pigs, and related ceRNA networks were constructed. Then, potentially important genes in ceRNA networks were verified by qRT‒PCR, and Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were performed to explore biological functions in the RGCs of FDM guinea pigs. The important genes and related signaling pathways were further verified by qRT‒PCR, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and Western blot in myopia in FDM guinea pigs, FDM mice, and highly myopic adults.

RESULTS

The distribution of RGCs was uneven, the number of RGCs was decreased, and RGC apoptosis was increased in FDM guinea pigs. In total, 873 lncRNAs and 2480 mRNAs were determined to be differentially expressed genes in RGCs from normal control and FDM guinea pigs. Via lncRNA-mediated ceRNA network construction and PCR verification, we found that lncRNA-XR_002792574.1 may be involved in the development of myopia through the miR-760-3p/Adcy1 pathway in RGCs. Further verification in FDM guinea pigs, FDM mice, and highly myopic adults demonstrated that the lncRNA-XR_002792574.1/miR-760-3p/Adcy1 axis in RGCs might be related to cGMP/PKG, the apelin signaling pathway and scleral remodeling.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrated that the lncRNA-XR_002792574.1/miR-760-3p/Adcy1 axis in RGCs might be related to myopia. On the one hand, the lncRNA-XR_002792574.1/miR-760-3p/Adcy1 axis might inhibit the cGMP/PKG and apelin signaling pathways in RGCs, thereby causing RGC damage in myopia. On the other hand, the lncRNA-XR_002792574.1/miR-760-3p/Adcy1 axis may cause myopic scleral remodeling through the ERK-MMP-2 pathway. These findings may reveal novel potential targets in myopia and provide reference value for exploration and development of gene editing therapeutics for hereditary myopia.

Competing endogenous RNAs in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: a review

Our understanding of RNA biology has evolved with recent advances in research from it being a non-functional product to molecules of the genome with specific regulatory functions. Competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA), which has gained prominence over time as an essential part of post-transcriptional regulatory mechanism, is one such example. The ceRNA biology hypothesis states that coding RNA and non-coding RNA co-regulate each other using microRNA (miRNA) response elements. The ceRNA components include long non-coding RNAs, pseudogene and circular RNAs that exert their effect by interacting with miRNA and regulate the expression level of its target genes. Emerging evidence has revealed that the dysregulation of the ceRNA network is attributed to the pathogenesis of various cancers, including the head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). This is the most prevalent cancer developed from the mucosal epithelium in the lip, oral cavity, larynx and pharynx. Although many efforts have been made to comprehend the cause and subsequent treatment of HNSCC, the morbidity and mortality rate remains high. Hence, there is an urgent need to understand the holistic progression of HNSCC, mediated by ceRNA, that can have immense relevance in identifying novel biomarkers with a defined therapeutic intervention. In this review, we have made an effort to highlight the ceRNA biology hypothesis with a focus on its involvement in the progression of HNSCC. For the identification of such ceRNAs, we have additionally highlighted a number of databases and tools.

Pan-Cancer Analysis and Experimental Validation of SOX4 as a Potential Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Immunotherapy Biomarker

INTRODUCTION

SOX4 plays an important role in tumorigenesis and cancer progression. The role of SOX4 in pan-cancer and its underlying molecular mechanism in liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) are not fully understood. In this study, a comprehensive analysis and experimental validation were performed to explore the function of SOX4 across tumor types.

METHODS

Raw data in regard to SOX4 expression in malignant tumors were downloaded from the TCGA and GTEx databases. The expression levels, prognostic values, genetic mutation, and DNA promoter methylation of SOX4 across tumor types were explored via systematic bioinformatics analysis. The ceRNA regulatory network, immune characteristics, and prognostic models were analyzed in LIHC. Finally, we conducted in vitro experiments including Western blotting, cell proliferative assay, trypan blue staining, and fluorescence microscopy to further explore the function of SOX4 in LIHC.

RESULTS

SOX4 expression was significantly upregulated in 24 tumor types. SOX4 expression level was strongly associated with unfavorable prognoses, genetic mutations, and DNA methylation levels across different tumor types. Especially in LIHC, LINC00152/hsa-miR-139-3p/SOX4 was identified as a crucial ceRNA network. Moreover, this study also provides insight into the roles of SOX4 expression in immune cell infiltration, macrophage polarization, immune subtype, molecular subtype, and immunomodulators, as well as the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME)-related prognosis, in LIHC. The study established six favorable prognostic models to predict LIHC prognosis based on the SOX4-associated genes. Finally, lenvatinib treatment can increase the expression of SOX4 in hepatocellular carcinoma cells and lead to drug resistance. Silencing SOX4 can effectively eliminate the drug resistance caused by lenvatinib treatment and inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights that SOX4 may serve as a promising therapeutic target for tumor treatment.

In silico engineering and simulation of RNA interferences nanoplatforms for osteoporosis treating and bone healing promoting

Osteoporosis is a bone condition characterized by reduced bone mineral density (BMD), poor bone microarchitecture/mineralization, and/or diminished bone strength. This asymptomatic disorder typically goes untreated until it presents as a low-trauma fracture of the hip, spine, proximal humerus, pelvis, and/or wrist, requiring surgery. Utilizing RNA interference (RNAi) may be accomplished in a number of ways, one of which is by the use of very tiny RNA molecules called microRNAs (miRNAs) and small interfering RNAs (siRNAs). Several kinds of antagomirs and siRNAs are now being developed to prevent the detrimental effects of miRNAs. The goal of this study is to find new antagonists for miRNAs and siRNAs that target multiple genes in order to reduce osteoporosis and promote bone repair. Also, choosing the optimum nanocarriers to deliver these RNAis appropriately to the body could lighten up the research road. In this context, we employed gene ontology analysis to search across multiple datasets. Following data analysis, a systems biology approach was used to process it. A molecular dynamics (MD) simulation was used to explore the possibility of incorporating the suggested siRNAs and miRNA antagonists into polymeric bioresponsive nanocarriers for delivery purposes. Among the three nanocarriers tested [polyethylene glycol (PEG), polyethylenimine (PEI), and PEG-PEI copolymer], MD simulations show that the integration of PEG-PEI with has-mIR-146a-5p is the most stable (total energy = -372.84 kJ/mol, Gyration radius = 2.1084 nm), whereas PEI is an appropriate delivery carrier for has-mIR-7155. The findings of the systems biology and MD simulations indicate that the proposed RNAis might be given through bioresponsive nanocarriers to accelerate bone repair and osteoporosis treatment.

The role of noncoding RNA and its diagnostic potential in intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy: a research update

Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) is a common liver disorder that generally occurs during the second or third trimester of pregnancy. It rarely causes any harm to the mother; however, it can result in short- and long-term complications in the offspring. Therefore, it is crucial to diagnose and treat this condition to avoid poor pregnancy outcomes. The identification of novel markers with potential diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic utility in ICP has gained attention. Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNA, long noncoding RNA, and circular RNA, are a type of transcripts that are not translated into proteins. They possess vital biological functions, including transcriptional and translational regulation and DNA, RNA, and protein interactions. The pathogenesis of ICP is related to the aberrant expression of several circulating or placenta-related ncRNAs. In this review, we summarized all recent findings on ncRNAs and ICP and outlined the concepts that form the basis for the early diagnosis and targeted treatment of ICP.

Malat1 promotes macrophage-associated inflammation by increasing PPAR-γ methylation through binding to EZH2 in acute myocardial infarction

The inflammatory microenvironment of macrophage plays an important role in acute myocardial infarction (AMI), but the regulatory mechanism is unknown. Here, we aimed to investigate the role of Malat1 on inflammation microenvironment of macrophage in AMI. Our study found that Malat1 expression was increased in AMI, which mainly expressed in macrophages. Malat1 inhibition improved collagen deposition and inflammation in infarcted heart. In vitro, Malat1 inhibition evidently reduced macrophage-associated inflammation. The results from ribonucleic acid pull-down (RNA pull-down) and RNA Immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay demonstrated that Malat1 directly binds to EZH2. Malat1 and EZH2 complex could increase histone H3K27me3 expression and further inhibit the production of PPAR-γ. In vivo, inhibition of Malat1 also leaded to the down-regulation of both EZH2 and H3K27me3, as well as up-regulation of PPAR-γ in infarcted heart. Therefore, these findings demonstrate a novel mechanism of Malat1 on inflammation microenvironment of macrophage in AMI, which provide a new target for its treatment.

Milk thistle nano-micelle formulation promotes cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma cells through modulating miR-155-3p /SOCS2 /PHLDA1 signaling axis

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent form of liver cancer that causes significant mortality in numerous individuals worldwide. This study compared the effects of milk thistle (MT) and nano-milk thistle (N-MT) on the expression of the genes that participate in apoptosis and cell cycle pathways in Huh-7 and HepG2 cells.

METHODS

IC50 values of MT and N-MT were determined using the MTT assay. Huh-7 and HepG2 cell lines (containing mutant and wild-type TP53 gene, respectively) were incubated with MT and N-MT for 24h and 48h and the impact of MT and N-MT on the proliferation of these cell lines was evaluated through a comparative analysis. Cell cycle and apoptosis were assessed by flow cytometry after 24h and 48h treatment in the cell lines mentioned. Real-time PCR was used to analyze miR-155-3p, PHLDA1, SOCS2, TP53, P21, BAX, and BCL-2 expression in the cell lines that were being treated.

RESULTS

N-MT reduces cancer cell growth in a time and concentration-dependent manner, which is more toxic compared to MT. Huh-7 was observed to have IC50 values of 2.35 and 1.7 μg/ml at 24h and 48h, and HepG2 was observed to have IC50 values of 3.4 and 2.6 μg/ml at 24 and 48h, respectively. N-MT arrested Huh-7 and HepG2 cells in the Sub-G1 phase and induced apoptosis. N-MT led to a marked reduction in the expression of miR-155-3p and BCL-2 after 24h and 48h treatments. Conversely, PHLDA1, SOCS2, BAX, and P21 were upregulated in the treated cells compared to untreated cells, which suggests that milk thistle has the potential to regulate these genes. N-MT reduced the expression of TP53 in Huh-7 cells after mentioned time points, while there was a significant increase in the expression of the TP53 gene in HepG2 cells. No gene expression changes were observed in MT-treated cells after 24h and 48h.

CONCLUSION

N-MT can regulate cancer cell death by arresting cell cycle and inducing apoptosis. This occurs through the alteration of apoptotic genes expression. A reduction in the expression of miR-155-3p and increase in the expression of SOCS2 and PHLDA1 after N-MT treatment showed the correlation between miR-155-3p and PHLDA1/SOCS2 found in bioinformatics analysis. While N-MT increased TP53 expression in HepG2, reduced it in Huh-7. The findings indicate that N-MT can function intelligently in cancer cells and can be a helpful complement to cancer treatment.

Metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 molecular mechanisms in gastric cancer progression

Gastric cancer (GC) remains among the most common cancers worldwide with a high mortality-to-incidence ratio. Accumulated evidence suggests that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in gastric carcinogenesis. These transcripts are longer than 200 nucleotides and modulate gene expression at multiple molecular levels, inducing or inhibiting biological processes and diseases. Metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) is one of the best-studied lncRNAs with comprehensive actions contributing to cancer progression. This lncRNA regulates gene expression at the transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels through interactions with microRNAs and proteins. In the present review, we discussed the molecular mechanism of MALAT1 and summarized the current knowledge of its expression in GC. Moreover, we highlighted the potential use of MALAT1 as a biomarker, including liquid biopsy.

Identification and assessment of differentially expressed necroptosis long non-coding RNAs associated with periodontitis in human

BACKGROUND

Periodontitis is the most common oral disease and is closely related to immune infiltration in the periodontal microenvironment and its poor prognosis is related to the complex immune response. The progression of periodontitis is closely related to necroptosis, but there is still no systematic study of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) associated with necroptosis for diagnosis and treatment of periodontitis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Transcriptome data and clinical data of periodontitis and healthy populations were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, and necroptosis-related genes were obtained from previously published literature. FactoMineR package in R was used to perform principal component analysis (PCA) for obtaining the necroptosis-related lncRNAs. The core necroptosis-related lncRNAs were screened by the Linear Models for Microarray Data (limma) package in R, PCA principal component analysis and lasso algorithm. These lncRNAs were then used to construct a classifier for periodontitis with logistic regression. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of the model. The CIBERSORT method and ssGSEA algorithm were used to estimate the immune infiltration and immune pathway activation of periodontitis. Spearman's correlation analysis was used to further verify the correlation between core genes and periodontitis immune microenvironment. The expression level of core genes in human periodontal ligament cells (hPDLCs) was detected by RT-qPCR.

RESULTS

A total of 10 core necroptosis-related lncRNAs (10-lncRNAs) were identified, including EPB41L4A-AS1, FAM30A, LINC01004, MALAT1, MIAT, OSER1-DT, PCOLCE-AS1, RNF144A-AS1, CARMN, and LINC00582. The classifier for periodontitis was successfully constructed. The Area Under the Curve (AUC) was 0.952, which suggested that the model had good predictive performance. The correlation analysis of 10-lncRNAs and periodontitis immune microenvironment showed that 10-lncRNAs had an impact on the immune infiltration of periodontitis. Notably, the RT-qPCR results showed that the expression level of the 10-lncRNAs obtained was consistent with the chip analysis results.

CONCLUSIONS

The 10-lncRNAs identified from the GEO dataset had a significant impact on the immune infiltration of periodontitis and the classifier based on 10-lncRNAs had good detection efficiency for periodontitis, which provided a new target for diagnosis and treatment of periodontitis.

Roles of noncoding RNAs in septic acute kidney injury

Septic acute kidney injury (SAKI) is one of the most common and life-threatening complications of sepsis. Patients with SAKI have increased mortality. However, the underlying pathogenesis is unclear, and the treatment targeting SAKI is unsatisfactory. Thus, identifying optimal biomarkers for SAKI diagnosis and treatment is an urgent requisite. Accumulating evidence indicates that noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are involved in the occurrence and progression of SAKI. In the present review, we summarized the studies of ncRNAs in SAKI, including microRNAs (miRNAs), long ncRNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs). The ncRNAs are divided into protective and damage factors according to their role in SAKI, and their expression patterns, functions, and molecular mechanisms were elaborated. Next, we proposed that ncRNAs have the potential to be diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for SAKI and as new therapeutic targets. This review aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of ncRNAs in SKAI and explored the clinical value of ncRNAs as ideal biomarkers of SAKI.

Noncoding RNAs as regulators of STAT3 pathway in gastrointestinal cancers: Roles in cancer progression and therapeutic response

Gastrointestinal (GI) tumors (cancers of the esophagus, gastric, liver, pancreas, colon, and rectum) contribute to a large number of deaths worldwide. STAT3 is an oncogenic transcription factor that promotes the transcription of genes associated with proliferation, antiapoptosis, survival, and metastasis. STAT3 is overactivated in many human malignancies including GI tumors which accelerates tumor progression, metastasis, and drug resistance. Research in recent years demonstrated that noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) play a major role in the regulation of many signaling pathways including the STAT3 pathway. The major types of endogenous ncRNAs that are being extensively studied in oncology are microRNAs, long noncoding RNAs, and circular RNAs. These ncRNAs can either be tumor-promoters or tumor-suppressors and each one of them imparts their activity via different mechanisms. The STAT3 pathway is also tightly modulated by ncRNAs. In this article, we have elaborated on the tumor-promoting role of STAT3 signaling in GI tumors. Subsequently, we have comprehensively discussed the oncogenic as well as tumor suppressor functions and mechanism of action of ncRNAs that are known to modulate STAT3 signaling in GI cancers.

Survival-based bioinformatics analysis to identify hub long non-coding RNAs along with lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network for potential diagnosis/prognosis of thyroid cancer

Thyroid cancer (TC) is the most common endocrine cancer, accounting for 1.7% of all cancer cases. It has been reported that the existing approach to diagnosing TC is problematic. Therefore, it is essential to develop molecular biomarkers to improve the accuracy of the diagnosis. This study aimed to screen hub lncRNAs in the ceRNA network (ceRNET) connected to TC formation and progression based on the overall survival rate. In this study, first, RNA-seq data from the GDC database were collected. A package called edgeR in R programming language was then used to obtain differentially expressed lncRNAs (DElncRNAs), miRNAs (DEmiRNAs), and mRNAs (DEmRNAs) in TC patients' samples compared to normal samples. Second, DEmRNAs were analyzed for their functional enrichment. Third, to identify RNAs associated with overall survival, the overall survival of these RNAs was analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier plotter database to create a survival associated with the ceRNA network (survival-related ceRNET). Next, the GeneMANIA plugin was used to construct a PPI network to better understand survival-related DEmRNA interactions. The survival ceRNET was then visualized with the Cytoscape software, and hub genes, including hub lncRNAs and hub mRNAs, were identified using the CytoHubba plugin. We found 45 DElncRNAs, 28 DEmiRNAs, and 723 DEmRNAs among thyroid tumor tissue and non-tumor tissue samples. According to KEGG, GO and DO analyses, 723 DEmRNAs were mainly enriched in cancer-related pathways. Importantly, the results found that ten DElncRNAs, four DEmiRNAs, and 68 DEmRNAs are associated with overall survival. In this account, the PPI network was constructed for 68 survival-related DEmRNAs, and ADAMTS9, DTX4, and CLDN10 were identified as hub genes. The ceRNET was created by combining six lncRNAs, 109 miRNAs, and 22 mRNAs related to survival using Cytoscape. in this network, ten hub RNAs were identified by the CytoHubba plugin, including mRNAs (CTXND1, XKRX, IGFBP2, ENTPD1, GALNT7, ADAMTS9) and lncRNAs (AC090673.1, AL162511.1, LINC02454, AL365259.1). This study suggests that three lncRNAs, including AL162511.1, AC090673.1, and AL365259.1, could be reliable diagnostic biomarkers for TC. The findings of this study provide a basis for future studies on the therapeutic potential of these lncRNAs.

LINC00638 promotes the progression of non-small cell lung cancer by regulating the miR-541-3p/IRS1/PI3K/Akt axis

Background

Preceding works reveal the function of long non-coding RNAs (abbreviated to lncRNAs) during non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) evolvement. We explored the profile and biological functions of the lncRNA LINC00638 in NSCLC.

Methods

Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR examined LINC00638 level in NSCLC and corresponding non-tumor tissues, human normal lung epithelial cells BEAS-2B, and NSCLC cells (NCI-H460, HCC-827, A549, H1299, H1975, H460). The gain- and loss-of-function assay of LINC00638 ascertained its function in modulating the proliferation, apoptosis, and invasion of NSCLC cells (HCC-827 and H460). Bioinformatics analysis investigated the underlying mechanisms. Dual luciferase reporter gene and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) checked the interactions between LINC00638 and microRNA (miR)-541-3p, miR-541-3p and insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS1).

Results

LINC00638 was upregulated in NSCLC tissues by contrast to the profiles found in the corresponding non-tumor normal tissues, as well as in NSCLC cells vis-à-vis BEAS-2B cells. LINC00638 upregulation pertained to the poorer survival rates of NSCLC patients. Overexpressing LINC00638 augmented NSCLC cells' proliferation, growth, migration, and invasion but inhibited their apoptosis, while down-regulating LINC00638 led to the opposite. miR-541-3p might be an underlying target of LINC00638, which targeted IRS1, inhibited NSCLC progression, and reversed the carcinogenic effects of LINC00638. Mechanistically, LINC00638/miR-541-3p regulated the IRS1/phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling pathway. Repressing IRS1/2 using its inhibitor NT157 repressed LINC00638-mediated oncogenic effects.

Conclusion

LINC00638 may function as an oncogene in NSCLC by modulating the miR-541-3p/IRS1/PI3K/Akt axis.

PVT1 alleviates hypoxia-induced endothelial apoptosis by enhancing autophagy via the miR-15b-5p/ATG14 and miR-424-5p/ATG14 axis

Endothelial dysfunction plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of vascular disease. Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) and microRNA (miRNA) play important roles in various cellular processes and are involved in several vascular endothelial cells (VECs) biological processes, including cell growth, migration, autophagy, and apoptosis. The functions of plasmacytoma variant translocation 1 (PVT1) in VECs have been progressively investigated in recent years, mainly with regard to proliferation and migration of endothelial cells (ECs). However, the mechanism underlying the regulation of autophagy and apoptosis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) by PVT1 remains unclear. The present study showed that PVT1 knockdown accelerated apoptosis induced by oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD) through suppression of cellular autophagy. Bioinformatic prediction of PVT1 target miRNAs revealed that PVT1 interacts with miR-15b-5p and miR-424-5p. The study further showed that miR-15b-5p and miR-424-5p inhibit the functions of autophagy related 14 (ATG14) and suppress cellular autophagy. The results showed that PVT1 can function as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) of miR-15b-5p and miR-424-5p and promote cellular autophagy by competitive binding, which down-regulates apoptosis. The results showed that PVT1 can function as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) of miR-15b-5p and miR-424-5p and promote cellular autophagy through competitive binding, which down-regulates apoptosis. The study provides insight into a novel therapeutic target that may be explored in the future for the treatment of cardiovascular disease.

G-quadruplexes from non-coding RNAs

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are significant regulators of gene expression in a wide range of biological processes, such as transcription, RNA maturation, or translation. ncRNAs interplay with proteins or other RNAs through not only classical sequence-based mechanisms but also unique higher-order structures such as RNA G-quadruplexes (rG4s). rG4s are predictably formed in guanine-rich sequences and are closely related to various human diseases, such as tumors, neurodegenerative diseases, and infections. This review focuses on the vital role of rG4s in ncRNAs, particularly lncRNAs and miRNAs. We outline the dynamic balance between rG4s and RNA stem-loop/hairpin structures and the interplay between ncRNAs and interactors, thereby modulating gene expression and disease progression. A complete understanding of the biological regulatory role and mechanism of rG4s in ncRNAs affirms the critical importance of folding into the appropriate three-dimensional structure in maintaining or modulating the functions of ncRNAs. It makes them novel therapeutic targets for adjusting potential-G4-containing-ncRNAs-associated diseases.

Insights on the Biomarker Potential of Exosomal Non-Coding RNAs in Colorectal Cancer: An In Silico Characterization of Related Exosomal lncRNA/circRNA–miRNA–Target Axis

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancer types, ranking third after lung and breast cancers. As such, it demands special attention for better characterization, which may eventually result in the development of early detection strategies and preventive measures. Currently, components of bodily fluids, which may reflect various disease states, are being increasingly researched for their biomarker potential. One of these components is the circulating extracellular vesicles, namely, exosomes, which are demonstrated to carry various cargo. Of importance, the non-coding RNA cargo of circulating exosomes, especially long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), circular RNAs (circRNAs), and micro RNAs (miRNAs), may potentially serve as significant diagnostic and prognostic/predictive biomarkers. In this review, we present existing evidence on the diagnostic and prognostic/predictive biomarker value of exosomal non-coding RNAs in CRC. In addition, taking advantage of the miRNA sponging functionality of lncRNAs and circRNAs, we demonstrate an experimentally validated CRC exosomal non-coding RNA-regulated target gene axis benefiting from published miRNA sponging studies in CRC. Hence, we present a set of target genes and pathways downstream of the lncRNA/circRNA–miRNA–target axis along with associated significant Gene Ontology (GO) terms and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways, which may collectively serve to better characterize CRC and shed light on the significance of exosomal non-coding RNAs in CRC diagnosis and prognosis/prediction.

Long noncoding RNA MALAT1 inhibition attenuates sepsis-induced acute lung injury through modulating the miR-129-5p/PAX6/ZEB2 axis

This research aimed to investigate the role of the long noncoding RNA metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1)/microRNA-129-5p (miR-129-5p)/paired box gene 6 (PAX6) axis in sepsis-induced acute lung injury (ALI). MLE-12 cells and C57BL/6 mice were induced by LPS to establish lung injury in in vitro and in vivo models. Cell viability and apoptosis were measured by cell counting kit-8 assay and TUNEL (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling) staining, respectively. Levels of inflammatory cytokines in cell supernatants and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were detected by ELISA. Lung injury was evaluated by lung wet weight-to-dry weight ratio and hematoxylin-eosin staining. MALAT1, PAX6, and zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox 2 (ZEB2) expression was elevated and miR-129-5p expression was reduced in the serum of patients with sepsis-induced ALI, LPS-induced MLE-12 cells, and lung tissues of ALI mice. MALAT1 interference delayed the LPS-induced cell proliferation decrease, apoptosis increase, and inflammatory factor increase. miR-129-5p inhibition could reverse the delaying effect of MALAT1 interference on LPS-induced lung cell injury. PAX6 overexpression (oe) reversed the inhibitory effect of miR-129-5p oe on LPS-induced lung cell injury. Downregulating MALAT1 reduced pulmonary edema, inflammatory cytokine levels, lung injury, and apoptosis in ALI mice. Moreover, miR-129-5p suppression or PAX6 oe reversed the delaying effect of MALAT1 interference on sepsis-induced ALI. MALAT1 aggravates sepsis-induced ALI via the miR-129-5p/PAX6/ZEB2 axis.

Data resources and computational methods for lncRNA-disease association prediction

Increasing interest has been attracted in deciphering the potential disease pathogenesis through lncRNA-disease association (LDA) prediction, regarding to the diverse functional roles of lncRNAs in genome regulation. Whilst, computational models and algorithms benefit systematic biology research, even facilitate the classical biological experimental procedures. In this review, we introduce representative diseases associated with lncRNAs, such as cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and neurological diseases. Current publicly available resources related to lncRNAs and diseases have also been included. Furthermore, all of the 64 computational methods for LDA prediction have been divided into 5 groups, including machine learning-based methods, network propagation-based methods, matrix factorization- and completion-based methods, deep learning-based methods, and graph neural network-based methods. The common evaluation methods and metrics in LDA prediction have also been discussed. Finally, the challenges and future trends in LDA prediction have been discussed. Recent advances in LDA prediction approaches have been summarized in the GitHub repository at https://github.com/sheng-n/lncRNA-disease-methods.

Long Intergenic Non-Protein Coding RNA 173 in Human Cancers

Long non-coding RNAs belong to non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) with a length of more than 200 nucleotides and limited protein-coding ability. Growing research has clarified that dysregulated lncRNAs are correlated with the development of various complex diseases, including cancer. LINC00173 has drawn researchers' attention as one of the recently discovered lncRNAs. Aberrant expression of LINC00173 affects the initiation and progression of human cancers. In the present review, we summarize the recent considerable research on LINC00173 in 11 human cancers. Through the summary of the abnormal expression of LINC00173 and its potential molecular regulation mechanism in cancers, this article indicates that LINC00173 may serve as a potential diagnostic biomarker and a target for drug therapy, thus providing novel clues for future related research.

Fighting Fire with Fire: Exosomes and Acute Pancreatitis-Associated Acute Lung Injury

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a prevalent clinical condition of the digestive system, with a growing frequency each year. Approximately 20% of patients suffer from severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) with local consequences and multi-organ failure, putting a significant strain on patients' health insurance. According to reports, the lungs are particularly susceptible to SAP. Acute respiratory distress syndrome, a severe type of acute lung injury (ALI), is the primary cause of mortality among AP patients. Controlling the mortality associated with SAP requires an understanding of the etiology of AP-associated ALI, the discovery of biomarkers for the early detection of ALI, and the identification of potentially effective drug treatments. Exosomes are a class of extracellular vesicles with a diameter of 30-150 nm that are actively released into tissue fluids to mediate biological functions. Exosomes are laden with bioactive cargo, such as lipids, proteins, DNA, and RNA. During the initial stages of AP, acinar cell-derived exosomes suppress forkhead box protein O1 expression, resulting in M1 macrophage polarization. Similarly, macrophage-derived exosomes activate inflammatory pathways within endothelium or epithelial cells, promoting an inflammatory cascade response. On the other hand, a part of exosome cargo performs tissue repair and anti-inflammatory actions and inhibits the cytokine storm during AP. Other reviews have detailed the function of exosomes in the development of AP, chronic pancreatitis, and autoimmune pancreatitis. The discoveries involving exosomes at the intersection of AP and acute lung injury (ALI) are reviewed here. Furthermore, we discuss the therapeutic potential of exosomes in AP and associated ALI. With the continuous improvement of technological tools, the research on exosomes has gradually shifted from basic to clinical applications. Several exosome-specific non-coding RNAs and proteins can be used as novel molecular markers to assist in the diagnosis and prognosis of AP and associated ALI.

The role of microRNAs in erectile dysfunction: From pathogenesis to therapeutic potential

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common male sexual dysfunction disease, and it was predicted that the number of ED patients worldwide will reach 322 million by 2025. However, the pathogenesis of ED is complex and the current treatment options are still limited, so it is urgent to explore new treatment strategies. Recent studies have shown that microRNAs (miRNAs) play an important role in ED, and these single-stranded non-coding small RNA molecules are involved in key pathophysiological processes in the occurrence and development of ED. Therefore, miRNAs have remarkable potential as therapeutic targets in ED. Here, this review introduces the physiological basis of erectile function and the pathophysiological changes in ED and summarizes the current knowledge on the expression, biological functions, and molecular mechanisms of miRNAs in ED, especially the potential of miRNA-targeted therapies to improve ED. This review will provide a comprehensive view of the role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of ED and the potential value of miRNAs in the treatment of ED.

LncRNA TP53TG1 plays an anti-oncogenic role in cervical cancer by synthetically regulating transcriptome profile in HeLa cells

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been extensively studied as important regulators of tumor development in various cancers. Tumor protein 53 target gene 1 (TP53TG1) is a newly identified lncRNA in recent years, and several studies have shown that TP53TG1 may play oncogenic or anti-oncogenic roles in different cancers. Nevertheless, the role of TP53TG1 in the development of cervical cancer is unclear. In our study, pan-cancer analysis showed that high expression of TP53TG1 was significantly associated with a better prognosis. We then constructed a TP53TG1 overexpression model in HeLa cell line to explore its functions and molecular targets. We found that TP53TG1 overexpression significantly inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis, demonstrating that TP53TG1 may be a novel anti-oncogenic factor in cervical cancer. Furthermore, overexpression of TP53TG1 could activate type I interferon signaling pathways and inhibit the expression of genes involved in DNA damage responses. Meanwhile, TP53TG1 could affect alternative splicing of genes involved in cell proliferation or apoptosis by regulating the expression of many RNA-binding protein genes. Competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network analysis demonstrated that TP53TG1 could act as the sponge of several miRNAs to regulate the expression level of target genes. In conclusion, our study highlights the essential role of lncRNA TP53TG1 in the development of cervical cancer and suggests the potential regulatory mechanisms.

LncRNA-miRNA axis in tumor progression and therapy response: An emphasis on molecular interactions and therapeutic interventions

Epigenetic factors are critical regulators of biological and pathological mechanisms and they could interact with different molecular pathways. Targeting epigenetic factors has been an idea approach in disease therapy, especially cancer. Accumulating evidence has highlighted function of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) as epigenetic factors in cancer initiation and development and has focused on their association with downstream targets. microRNAs (miRNAs) are the most well-known targets of lncRNAs and present review focuses on lncRNA-miRNA axis in malignancy and therapy resistance of tumors. LncRNA-miRNA regulates cell death mechanisms such as apoptosis and autophagy in cancers. This axis affects tumor metastasis via regulating EMT and MMPs. Besides, lncRNA-miRNA axis determines sensitivity of tumor cells to chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy. Based on the studies, lncRNAs can be affected by drugs and genetic tools in cancer therapy and this may affect expression level of miRNAs as their downstream targets, leading to cancer suppression/progression. LncRNAs have both tumor-promoting and tumor-suppressor functions in cancer and this unique function of lncRNAs has complicated their implication in tumor therapy. LncRNA-miRNA axis can also affect other signaling networks in cancer such as PI3K/Akt, STAT3, Wnt/β-catenin and EZH2 among others. Notably, lncRNA/miRNA axis can be considered as a signature for diagnosis and prognosis in cancers.

Focus on long non-coding RNA MALAT1: Insights into acute and chronic lung diseases

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a pulmonary illness with a high burden of morbidity and mortality around the world. Chronic lung diseases also represent life-threatening situations. Metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) is a type of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) and is highly abundant in lung tissues. MALAT1 can function as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to impair the microRNA (miRNA) inhibition on targeted messenger RNAs (mRNAs). In this review, we summarized that MALAT1 mainly participates in pulmonary cell biology and lung inflammation. Therefore, MALAT1 can positively or negatively regulate ALI and chronic lung diseases (e.g., chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), pulmonary fibrosis, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension (PH)). Besides, we also found a MALAT1-miRNA-mRNA ceRNA regulatory network in acute and chronic lung diseases. Through this review, we hope to cast light on the regulatory mechanisms of MALAT1 in ALI and chronic lung disease and provide a promising approach for lung disease treatment.

Comprehensive analysis of GINS subunits prognostic value and ceRNA network in sarcoma

Background: The GINS complex, composed of GINS1/2/3/4 subunits, is an essential structure of Cdc45-MCM-GINS (CMG) helicase and plays a vital role in establishing the DNA replication fork and chromosome replication. Meanwhile, GINS genes have been associated with the poor prognosis of various malignancies. However, the abnormal expression of GINS genes and their diagnostic and prognostic value in sarcomas (SARC) remain unclear.

Methods: Oncomine, Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA), Kaplan-Meier Plotter, Cancer cell line encyclopedia (CCLE), The University of Alabama at Birmingham Cancer Data Analysis Portal (UALCAN), R studio, and Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER) were used to analyze the expression profiles, prognostic value, biological function, ceRNA, and immune infiltration associated with GINS genes in sarcomas.

Results: We found that GINS1/2/3/4 genes exhibited significantly upregulated transcription levels in SARC samples compared to non-tumor tissues and exhibited high expression levels in sarcoma cell lines. In addition, SARC patients with increased expression levels of GINS1/2/3/4 showed poorer survival rates. Immune infiltration analysis showed that GINS subunits were closely associated with the infiltration of immune cells in sarcomas.

Conclusion: Our research identified GINS subunits as potential diagnostic and prognostic biological targets in SARC and elucidated their underlying effects in the genesis and progression of SARC. These results may provide new opportunities and research directions for targeted sarcoma therapy.

MALAT1-miRNAs network regulate thymidylate synthase and affect 5FU-based chemotherapy

Background

The active metabolite of 5-Fluorouracil (5FU), used in the treatment of several types of cancer, acts by inhibiting the thymidylate synthase encoded by the TYMS gene, which catalyzes the rate-limiting step in DNA replication. The major failure of 5FU-based cancer therapy is the development of drug resistance. High levels of TYMS-encoded protein in cancerous tissues are predictive of poor response to 5FU treatment. Expression of TYMS is regulated by various mechanisms, including involving non-coding RNAs, both miRNAs and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs).

Aim

To delineate the miRNAs and lncRNAs network regulating the level of TYMS-encoded protein.

Main body

Several miRNAs targeting TYMS mRNA have been identified in colon cancers, the levels of which can be regulated to varying degrees by lncRNAs. Due to their regulation by the MALAT1 lncRNA, these miRNAs can be divided into three groups: (1) miR-197-3p, miR-203a-3p, miR-375-3p which are downregulated by MALAT1 as confirmed experimentally and the levels of these miRNAs are actually reduced in colon and gastric cancers; (2) miR-140-3p, miR-330-3p that could potentially interact with MALAT1, but not yet supported by experimental results; (3) miR-192-5p, miR-215-5p whose seed sequences do not recognize complementary response elements within MALAT1. Considering the putative MALAT1-miRNAs interaction network, attention is drawn to the potential positive feedback loop causing increased expression of MALAT1 in colon cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma, where YAP1 acts as a transcriptional co-factor which, by binding to the TCF4 transcription factor/ β-catenin complex, may increase the activation of the MALAT1 gene whereas the MALAT1 lncRNA can inhibit miR-375-3p which in turn targets YAP1 mRNA.

Conclusion

The network of non-coding RNAs may reduce the sensitivity of cancer cells to 5FU treatment by upregulating the level of thymidylate synthase.

Discovery of Long Non-Coding RNA MALAT1 Amplification in Precancerous Colorectal Lesions

A colorectal adenoma, an aberrantly growing tissue, arises from the intestinal epithelium and is considered as precursor of colorectal cancer (CRC). In this study, we investigated structural and numerical chromosomal aberrations in adenomas, hypothesizing that chromosomal instability (CIN) occurs early in adenomas. We applied array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) to fresh frozen colorectal adenomas and their adjacent mucosa from 16 patients who underwent colonoscopy examination. In our study, histologically similar colorectal adenomas showed wide variability in chromosomal instability. Based on the obtained results, we further stratified patients into four distinct groups. The first group showed the gain of MALAT1 and TALAM1, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). The second group involved patients with numerous microdeletions. The third group consisted of patients with a disrupted karyotype. The fourth group of patients did not show any CIN in adenomas. Overall, we identified frequent losses in genes, such as TSC2, COL1A1, NOTCH1, MIR4673, and GNAS, and gene gain containing MALAT1 and TALAM1. Since long non-coding RNA MALAT1 is associated with cancer cell metastasis and migration, its gene amplification represents an important event for adenoma development.

Syringin exerts anti-breast cancer effects through PI3K-AKT and EGFR-RAS-RAF pathways

Background

Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most common malignant tumors with the highest mortality in the world. Modern pharmacological studies have shown that Syringin has an inhibitory effect on many tumors, but its anti-BC efficacy and mechanism are still unclear.

Methods

First, Syringin was isolated from Acanthopanax senticosus (Rupr. & Maxim.) Harms (ASH) by systematic solvent extraction and silica gel chromatography column. The plant name is composed of genus epithet, species additive words and the persons’ name who give its name. Then, the hub targets of Syringin against BC were revealed by bioinformatics. To provide a more experimental basis for later research, the hub genes which could be candidate biomarkers of BC and a ceRNA network related to them were obtained. And the potential mechanism of Syringin against BC was proved in vitro experiments.

Results

Syringin was obtained by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC–MS), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Bioinformatics results showed that MAP2K1, PIK3CA, HRAS, EGFR, Caspase3, and PTGS2 were the hub targets of Syringin against BC. And PIK3CA and HRAS were related to the survival and prognosis of BC patients, the PIK3CA-hsa-mir-139-5p-LINC01278 and PIK3CA-hsa-mir-375 pathways might be closely related to the mechanism of Syringin against BC. In vitro experiments confirmed that Syringin inhibited the proliferation and migration and promoted apoptosis of BC cells through the above hub targets.

Conclusions

Syringin against BC via PI3K-AKT-PTGS2 and EGFR-RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK pathways, and PIK3CA and HRAS are hub genes for adjuvant treatment of BC.

Graphical Abstract

Stressing the Regulatory Role of Long Non-Coding RNA in the Cellular Stress Response during Cancer Progression and Therapy

Cellular stress response is an important adaptive mechanism for regulating cell fate decision when cells confront with stress. During tumorigenesis, tumor progression and the course of treatment, cellular stress signaling can activate subsequent response to deal with stress. Therefore, cellular stress response has impacts on the fate of tumor cells and tumor responsiveness relative to therapeutic agents. In recent years, attention has been drawn to long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), a novel class of RNA molecules with more than 200 nucleotides in length, which has little protein-coding potential and possesses various functions in multiple biological processes. Accumulating evidence has shown that lncRNAs are also engaged in the regulation of cellular stress response, particularly in cancers. Here, we summarize lncRNAs that have been reported in the adaptive response to major types of cellular stress including genotoxic, hypoxic, oxidative, metabolic and endoplasmic reticulum stress, all of which are often encountered by cancer cells. Specifically, the molecular mechanisms of how lncRNAs regulate cellular stress response during tumor progression or the development of therapy resistance are emphasized. The potential clinical applications of stress-responsive lncRNAs as biomarkers will also be discussed.

ncRNA-Mediated High Expression of LPCAT1 Correlates with Poor Prognosis and Tumor Immune Infiltration of Liver Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Purpose

To investigate the expression of LPCAT1 in liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) and its relationship with prognosis and immune infiltration and predict its upstream nonencoding RNAs (ncRNAs).

Method

In this study, expression analysis and survival analysis for LPCAT1 in pan cancers were first performed by using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data, which suggested that LPCAT1 might be a potential LIHC oncogene. Then, ncRNAs contributing to the overexpression of LPCAT1 were explored in starBase by a combination of expression analysis, correlation analysis, and survival analysis. Immune cell infiltration of LPCAT1 in LIHC was finally investigated via Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER).

Result

SNHG3 was observed to be the most promising upstream lncRNA for the hsa-miR-139-5p/LPCAT1 axis in LIHC. In addition, the LPCAT1 level was significantly positively associated with tumor immune cell infiltration, biomarkers of immune cells, and immune checkpoint expression in LIHC.

Conclusion

To summarize, the upregulation of LPCAT1 mediated by ncRNAs is associated with poor prognosis, immune infiltration, and immune checkpoint expression in LIHC.

The Emerging Role of Long Non-Coding RNAs in Esophageal Cancer: Functions in Tumorigenesis and Clinical Implications

Esophageal cancer (EC) is one of the most common malignancies of digestive tracts with poor five-year survival rate. Hence, it is very significant to further investigate the occurrence and development mechanism of esophageal cancer, find more effective biomarkers and promote early diagnosis and effective treatment. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are generally defined as non-protein-coding RNAs with more than 200 nucleotides in length. Existing researches have shown that lncRNAs could act as sponges, guides, scaffolds, and signal molecules to influence the oncogene or tumor suppressor expressions at transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and protein levels in crucial cellular processes. Currently, the dysregulated lncRNAs are reported to involve in the pathogenesis and progression of EC. Importantly, targeting EC-related lncRNAs through genome editing, RNA interference and molecule drugs may be one of the most potential therapeutic methods for the future EC treatment. In this review, we summarized the biological functions and molecular mechanisms of lncRNAs, including oncogenic lncRNAs and tumor suppressor lncRNAs in EC. In addition, we generalized the excellent potential lncRNA candidates for diagnosis, prognosis and therapy in EC. Finally, we discussed the current challenges and opportunities of lncRNAs for EC.

Mechanism of METTL14 and m6A modification of lncRNA MALAT1 in the proliferation of oral squamous cell carcinoma cells

OBJECTIVES

Methyltransferase-like 14 (METTL14) plays an epigenetic role in various cancer through N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification. This study sought to analyze the mechanism of METTL14 in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cell proliferation.

METHODS

Expression levels of METTL14, lncRNA metastasis associated with lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (lncRNA MALAT1), microRNA (miR)-224-5p, and histone lysine demethylase 2A (KDM2A) in OSCC tissues (N = 40), and cell lines (FaDu, SCC-25, CAL-27, and SCC-15) were detected. Cell viability and colony formation capacity were assessed. m6A level, stability, and subcellular localization of lncRNA MALAT1 were determined. Nude mouse xenograft tumor assay was performed to confirm the role of METTL14 in vivo.

RESULTS

METTL14 and lncRNA MALAT1 were upregulated, and miR-224-5p was downregulated in OSCC tissues and cells. Silencing METTL14 repressed OSCC cell viability and colony formation. Overexpression of MALAT1 and KDM2A or miR-224-5p downregulation reversed the inhibition of silencing METTL14 on OSCC cell proliferation. METTL14 induced m6A modification of MALAT1 to upregulate MALAT1. MALAT1 is comparatively bound to miR-224-5p to promote KDM2A transcription. In vivo, METTL14 promoted tumor growth via regulating MALAT1/miR-224-5p/ KDM2A.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, our findings verified the therapeutic role of silencing METTL14 in OSCC treatment through the MALAT1/miR-224-5p/KDM2A axis.

Silencing of lncRNA MALAT1 facilitates erastin-induced ferroptosis in endometriosis through miR-145-5p/MUC1 signaling

Endometriosis is a chronic disorder characterized by the implantation of endometrial glands and stroma outside the uterus. However, the pathogenesis of endometriosis is still unclear. To date, there is no fully effective treatment without trauma because of various side effects. Recent data suggest that ferroptosis is a novel recognized form of nonapoptosis-regulated cell death characterized by iron-dependent and lethal lipid peroxidation accumulation, showing great promise in the treatment of many diseases. In the present study, we verified that erastin induced ferroptosis in ectopic endometrial stromal cells (EESCs). Furthermore, we found that the expression of metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) was decreased during erastin-induced ferroptosis. Knockdown of MALAT1 significantly aggravated the inhibition of cell viability and increased intracellular iron, Liperfluo, and MDA levels in EESCs upon erastin treatment. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that MALAT1 served as a competing endogenous RNA of miR-145-5p to regulate the expression of MUC1, a suppressor of ferroptosis. MALAT1 knockdown-mediated ferroptotic cell death and MUC1 downregulation could be abrogated by inhibition of miR-145-5p. In addition, miR-145-5p inhibition-mediated ferroptotic cell death could be abolished by MUC1 knockdown. Furthermore, erastin-induced ferroptosis shrunk endometriotic lesions via the MALAT1/miR-145-5p/MUC1 axis in vivo. Taken together, our data indicate that knockdown of MALAT1 facilitates ferroptosis upon erastin treatment via miR-145-5p/MUC1 signaling. The synergistic effect of MALAT1 knockdown and erastin induction in ferroptosis may be a new therapeutic strategy for endometriosis.

Dysregulation of lncRNA–miRNA–mRNA Interactome as a Marker of Metastatic Process in Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the most common types of cancer among malignancies of the female reproductive system. This pathology is asymptomatic until advanced stages and has a poor prognosis. Our study aimed to search for lncRNA–miRNA–mRNA competing triplets that promote ovarian tumorigenesis. For this purpose, we analyzed tumor samples from the TCGA database and verified the results experimentally in a set of 46 paired samples of tumor and matched histologically unchanged ovarian tissues from OC patients. The list of RNAs selected in silico for experimental studies included 13 mRNAs, 10 lncRNAs, and 5 miRNAs related to epithelial–mesenchymal transition and angiogenesis. We evaluated the expression of these RNAs by qRT-PCR and assessed the correlation between levels of miRNAs, mRNAs, and lncRNAs. Sixteen significant triplets were revealed, in some of which, e.g., OIP5-AS1–miR-203a–c-MET and OIP5-AS1–miR-203a–ZEB2, both lncRNA and mRNA had sites for miR-203a direct binding. Transfection of the OVCAR-3 and SKOV-3 cell lines with the miR-203a mimic was used to confirm the novel links of miR-203a with ZEB2 and c-MET in OC. These connections suggest that the interactomes have the potential for diagnostics of metastasis at early onset.

MALAT1-related signaling pathways in colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most lethal and prevalent solid malignancies worldwide. There is a great need of accelerating the development and diagnosis of CRC. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA) as transcribed RNA molecules play an important role in every level of gene expression. Metastasis‐associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript‐1 (MALAT1) is a highly conserved nucleus-restricted lncRNA that regulates genes at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. High expression of MALAT1 is closely related to numerous human cancers. It is generally believed that MALAT1 expression is associated with CRC cell proliferation, tumorigenicity, and metastasis. MALAT1 by targeting multiple signaling pathways and microRNAs (miRNAs) plays a pivotal role in CRC pathogenesis. Therefore, MALAT1 can be a potent gene for cancer prediction and diagnosis. In this review, we will demonstrate signaling pathways associated with MALAT1 in CRC.

vFLIP-regulated competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks targeting lytic induction for KSHV-associated malignancies

Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) causes life-long latent infection and malignancies, including Kaposi sarcoma (KS) commonly found in AIDS patients. Lytic replication can be induced to kill tumor cells harboring latent KSHV, through viral cytopathic effects and the subsequent antiviral immune responses. Viral FLICE-inhibitory protein (vFLIP), encoded by KSHV ORF K13, inhibits KSHV lytic reactivation, implying that the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks regulated by vFLIP can be modulated to induce the lytic reactivation of latent KSHV, a promising strategy for KSHV-associated malignancies. Here, we performed whole-transcriptome sequencing to reveal the global landscape of non-coding RNAs and mRNAs in iSLK-RGB-BAC16 cells and iSLK-RGB-K13 mutant cells. It showed that vFLIP regulated 227 differently expressed (DE) lncRNAs, 57 DE circRNAs, 20 DE miRNAs and 1371 DE mRNAs. Enrichment analysis verified that riboflavin metabolism was simultaneously enriched in DE genes related to miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs. The upregulated hsa-miR-378i and hsa-miR-3654, and downregulated miR-4467, miR-3163, miR-4451 and miR-4257 were significantly enriched in the ceRNA complex network, which contained 9 upregulated and 7 downregulated circRNAs, 5 upregulated and 85 downregulated lncRNAs, 5 upregulated and 35 downregulated mRNAs. Finally, we constructed and validated two vFLIP-regulated ceRNA networks: circRNA hsa_circ_0070049/hsa-miR-378i/SPEG/FOXQ1 and lncRNA AL031123.1/hsa-miR-378i/SPEG/FOXQ1. Taken together, the two ceRNA networks may mediate KSHV reactivation. These novel findings refreshed the present understanding of ceRNA network in KSHV lytic induction and provided potential therapeutic targets for KSHV-associated malignancies. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.